bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison between ytterbium acetate, ruthenium phenanthroline and indigestible acid detergent fibre in a double-marker system for intestinal flow measurements in steers
Authors: Ortigues I. , Oldham J. D. , Smith T. , Courtenay M. B. de , Siviter J. W.
Published: March 2009

Three double-marker systems were used in cannulated steers offered straw-based diets supplemented with barley, fishmeal or a combination of both, in an attempt to reduce the risks of misinterpreting biological results based on calculations of digesta flows using markers. Ruthenium phenanthroline (Ru-phe), ytterbium acetate (Yb-ac) and the indigestible acid detergent fibre fraction (IADF) were used as markers of the particulate phase of digesta in conjunction with Cr-EDTA as a liquid-phase marker to estimate duodenal and ileal digesta flows. The present paper presents the difficulties met in the application of marker techniques.

The particulate marker used in a double-marker system for calculation of nutrient flow modified the degree of statistical significance observed for dietary treatment effects on digesta flow parameters.

The data suggest that the type of diet used affects the behaviour of individual markers in different ways and could incur some bias in the results. It is hypothesized that the physical and chemical characteristics of digesta, in different dietary conditions, can be responsible for differential attachment of markers to particles of the solid phase. In such cases, the distinction made in the double-marker technique between particulate and liquid phases may not be sufficient to correct for lack of representativeness of digesta contents sampled from T-shaped cannulae.

For the diets studied it was concluded that the interpretation of digestion parameters should be based on both Ru-phe and Yb-ac results.
An approach for breeding varieties of rice resistant to bacterial leaf blight with induced mutations
Authors: Nakai H. , Goto M.
Published: March 2009

The studies were designed for breeding resistant varieties of rice to bacterial leaf blightcaused by Xanlhomonas oryzae (Uyeda et Ishiyama) Dowson with induced mutations. In 1971, seedlings of irradiated lines (X$) originated from treatments of 60Co γ-and X-radiation and control (C6), which were propagated in bulk up to X6(C6) generations after the treatments, were inoculated with highly virulent isolates.

The results showed that the variability of disease reaction within the irradiated lines increased in both resistant and susceptible directions from the control mean. It was assumed from these results that the irradiation treatments could induce polygenic mutations to give both germ types more resistant and those more susceptible to bacterial leaf blight, suggesting that such treatments might be an effective approach for breeding varieties resistant to the disease.
Influence of seeding time on the yield of white clover/orchardgrass mixtures in Atlantic Canada
Authors: Fraser J. , Kunelius H. T.
Published: March 2009

The influence of four seeding times on herbage dry matter (DM) yields and clover content of white clover (Trifolium repens L.)/orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) mixtures was evaluated at Truro, Nova Scotia and Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island from 1985 to 1988. Sacramento, Sonja and Milkanova white clover/orchardgrass mixtures were assessed under simulated grazing (four or five harvests per year) over two production years at each location.

Delaying seeding from May to August reduced total herbage DM yields significantly in the first production year, from 8·1 to 3·3 t/ha in Truro and from 11·0 to 7·2 t/ha in Charlottetown. Late seeding significantly reduced clover content in the herbage of the first two harvests in the first production year but, by the mid to late-season harvests, white clover content had increased to levels similar to those of the May seeding. Estimated white clover DM yields were highest in June, and dropped in the second production year at both locations. Sonja and Milkanova white clovers consistently outyielded Sacramento in herbage DM yields and clover content in both locations irrespective of seeding dates.
Physical structure of twelve forage species in relation to rate of intake by sheep
Authors: Wilman D. , Mtengeti E. J. , Moseley G.
Published: March 2009

In order to understand better the relationship between plant physical structure and rate of intake, twelve plant species were compared: Trifolium repens L., Medicago sativa L., Onobrychis viciifolia Scop., Desmodium intortum (Mill.) Urb., Brassica napus L., Spergula arvensis L., Lolium perenne L., Lolium multifiorum Lam., Festuca arundinacea Schreb., Chloris gayana Kunth, Cenchrus ciliaris L. and Zea mays L. The effects of early as opposed to late harvesting were compared. Plants were grown in a heated glasshouse in each of 2 years, examined for morphology, anatomy, neutral detergent fibre and digestibility, and fed to sheep for 1-min test periods to record rate of intake.

Rate of intake was in the order tropical grasses < temperate grasses < broad-leaved species < S. arvensis. The range was wide: from 4·6 g dry matter/min with C. gayana to 15·6 g with S. arvensis. The lowest rate of intake was associated with the possession of a large number of veins, close together, in parallel lines (tropical grasses); a rather higher rate was associated with fewer veins, further apart, in parallel lines (temperate grasses); the next to the highest rate was associated with broad leaves, which had a network of veins; the highest rate was associated with thin stems containing thin vascular bundles. L. perenne, L. multifiorum, C. gayana and C. ciliaris were similar in the thickness of large and small leaf blade veins and leaf sheath veins. F. arundinacea and Z. mays had rather thicker veins. T. repens, 0. viciifolia. D. intortum and B. napus were similar in the thickness of petiole vascular bundles. Neutral detergent fibre was lowest in B. napus and highest in C. gayana and C. ciliaris. In vitro digestibility was highest in B. napus and lowest in D. intortum.
Rate of change in harvest index during grain-filling of wheat
Authors: Moot D. J. , Jamieson P. D. , Henderson A. L. , Ford M. A. , Porter J. R.
Published: March 2009

A constant rate of change in harvest index (dHI/dt = k) has recently been incorporated into several crop simulation models, so that final grain yield can be calculated from final biomass and the duration of grain growth. Implicit is the assumption that dHI/dt is conservative across treatments and environments. This assumption was tested using data from five experiments grown in the United Kingdom (1973, 1978, 1994) and New Zealand (1992, 1993). The experiments included commercial spring and winter wheat cultivars introduced during the last 100 years and nitrogen, irrigation, sowing date, temperature and CO2 treatments. In all cases, the time course of harvest index (HI) had an initial lag phase, a linear phase and a maturation phase. The linear phase was stable in field-grown crops, except for a reduction in slope after lodging in some crops. Values for dHI/dt, taken as the slope of the linear phase, varied with variety and available nitrogen, were stable for a given variety among years, and were unaffected by water stress. Variation in dHI/dt among varieties was independent of their year of introduction, although those with the Rht2 semi-dwarfing gene generally achieved a higher final HI due to a reduced lag phase. Differences in the duration of the linear phase also caused differences in the final HI after drought. The upper and lower limits of dHI/dt for fieldgrown crops were 1·37 and 0·64% d-1 but, under normal fertility conditions, the variation was between 0·90 and 1·19 % d-1. Results indicated that dHI/dt could provide an effective semi-empirical relationship for predicting grain yield in simulation models. The consistent, linear nature of this relationship suggests a physiological maximum for dHI/dt, for a given species and variety. It may be possible to exploit varietal differences in dHI/dt, and in the lag phase, for yield improvement.
Effect of the inclusion of tropical tree legumes, Gliricidia sepium and Leucaena leucocephala, on the nutritive value of silages prepared from tropical grasses
Authors: Tjandraatmadja M. , MacRae I. C. , Norton B. W.
Published: March 2009

Silages were prepared from the tropical grasses, pangola grass (Digitaria decumbens) and setaria (Setaria sphacelata), with the addition of molasses (4% w/w) and/or leaves (33%) from the leguminous trees leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) and gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium). All forages were grown at the University of Queensland farm in south eastern Queensland during 1985. These silages, together with hays made from these grasses and sorghum silage (13 diets) were fed to sheep to assess their nutritive value. All silages were well preserved, as indicated by low pH (3·5–4·4), low ammonia N (26–57 g/kg total N) and high lactic acid (73–95% total acids) contents. The addition of legumes increased both the dry matter (DM) and total N (TN) contents of silages to the same extent as the addition of both legumes and molasses at ensiling. Sheep given silages prepared from pangola grass and legumes (±molasses) consumed similar DM intakes (22·9–25·4 g/kg0·75 per day) as sheep given pangola grass hay (23·9 g/kg0'75 per day). Silage made from pangola grass + molasses was of low palatability (16·1 g/kg0·75 per day). The digestibilities of silage DM (DMD) and its fibrous components were significantly (P<0·05) lower (DMD 53·3–60·6%) than that of pangola hay (DMD 64·7%). Silages and hay made from setaria, and sorghum silage, were of lower nutritive value than those from pangola grass. The addition of leucaena and molasses increased silage DM intakes (21·1 g/kg0·75 per day) above those for setaria hay and setaria + molasses silage (16·7 and 19·0 g/kg0·75 per day respectively). The intakes of silages made from gliricidia (17·1 g/kg0·75 per day) were significantly (P <0·05) improved when molasses was included at ensiling (21·8 g/kg0·75 per day). The digestibilities of silage DM were significantly (P<0·05) higher (DMD 53·6–60·4%) than that of setaria hay (DMD 40·6). Liveweight change in sheep was significantly (P<0·05) correlated with intakes of digestible DM (r2= 0·74) and with N intake (r2= 0·82). The inclusion of legumes in the silages increased N retention and, for setaria silages, also increased rumen ammonia concentration. It was concluded that tropical grasses can be effectively ensiled by the addition of legumes alone and, with the exception of setaria/gliricidia silages, the resultant silages were of sufficiently high quality to merit their use in tropical animal production systems.
Effect of foliar application of chelated copper and manganese on yield components and fibre properties of Egyptian cotton (Gossypium barbadense)
Authors: Sawan Z. M. , Mahmoud M. H. , Gregg B. R.
Published: March 2009

A decline in supplies of organic manures and the increased use of chemical fertilizers has led to a decrease in the micronutrient content of the soil, with attendant effects on yield.

Field studies were conducted in 1986 and 1987 at the Giza Agricultural Research Centre, Egypt, to determine the effect of Cu-EDTA and Mn-EDTA foliar sprays on growth, mineral content, yield components and fibre properties of the Egyptian cotton cultivar Giza 75 (Gossypium barbadense L.).

All combinations used significantly increased the uptake of Cu and Mn and the dry matter yield. The earliness of harvest and the value of yield components were all increased by the application of Cu or Mn; 25 mg/1 of both Cu and Mn gave the highest values. Lint percentage and fibre properties were not significantly affected.

This study indicated that the yield of cotton, grown under otherwise standard conditions, may be increased by foliar sprays of Cu-EDTA and Mn-EDTA combined.
Physiological assessment of apetalous flowers and erectophile pods in oilseed rape (Brassica napus)
Authors: Fray M. J. , Evans E. J. , Lydiate D. J. , Arthur A. E.
Published: March 2009

The transmission of solar radiation within the crop canopies of oilseed rape is decreased both by the plant's yellow petals during flowering, and by the horizontal posture of the pods once they are formed. The significance of each of these morphologies was assessed, in the 1991/92 and 1992/93 growing seasons, by comparing the performances of an apetalous breeding line (N-o-112) and one with erectophile pods (N-5-130) with two conventional commercial genotypes (Falcon and Tapidor).

The apetalous floral layer of line N-o-112 reflected and absorbed significantly less radiation than those of the conventional, petalled genotypes. This resulted in a greater transmission of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) to the leaf and bract canopy situated below. At peak flowering, 70% more PAR was transmitted through the apetalous floral layer.

The erectophile pods of line N-5-130 were angled 20–25° further from the horizontal than the conventional genotypes. The extinction coefficient (K) of its pod layer during late pod growth ranged from 0·35 to 0·44 as compared to 0·45 to 0·55 in the commercial varieties. Line N-5-130 carried a greater proportion of its total fertile pod number in the lower regions of the pod canopy compared to the two conventional genotypes. It also had a greater overall mean number of seeds per pod, and the number decreased proportionately less with depth in the canopy. The line was thus better able to maintain a higher photosynthetic area and to sustain pod and seed growth at the lower levels of the crop canopy than the conventional, commercial varieties. The potential physiological effects of apetalous flowers and erectophile pods are considered to be sufficiently beneficial for their introgression into near-isogenic lines to be pursued.
A note on differences in coat structure between the black and white areas of piebald lambs
Authors: Ryder M. L. , Adalsteinsson S.
Published: March 2009

Data are reported on a phenomenon in which piebald lambs having a coat of intermediate hairiness have black wool which is not only longer and coarser than the white wool on the same animal, but which has a different coat structure in terms of the fibre type array. Possible explanations for this effect which is apparently caused by the gene that restricts the production of pigment to certain areas of the skin are discussed. Hairy lambs and woolly lambs did not have this coat difference between the two colours.
The use of water-washed neem (Azadirachta indica) seed kernel cake in the feeding of buffalo calves
Authors: Agrawal D. K. , Garg A. K. , Nath K.
Published: March 2009

A new protein supplement in the form of water-washed neem (Azadirachta indica) seed kernel cake for tropical countries such as India, Pakistan, Ceylon, Burma and also for tropical regions of Australia, Africa, the Middle East and South-East Asia which could be successfully fed to cattle has been reported by Nath, Rajgopal & Garg (1983). The adverse effect of the bitter or toxic principles contained in the neem seed kernel cake could be removed by water washing. It has a potential of providing Rs.350 million worth of additional feed in India alone and if all the neem seeds produced in India could be harvested and utilized for the preparation of oil, the production of the cake could reach 7–8 times its present value.
The effect Of insect pollination on plant development and seed production in winter oil-seed rape (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Williams Ingrid H. , Martin A. P. , White R. P.
Published: March 2009

The effect of insect pollination on plant development and seed yield of winter oil-seed rape, cultivar Jet Neuf, was investigated by comparing plots caged with a honeybee colony, plots caged to exclude insects and plots uncaged and 'open-pollinated' by naturally occurring insects. Plants in the bee-pollinated plots finished flowering earlier, showed more advanced pod growth, and were shorter than those in the plots without bees. Pods from the plots with honeybees contained more seed post-flowering than those from plots without honeybees but the proportion of them that grew into mature seeds for harvest was determined by water availability during seed growth.
Changes in the total tuber glycoalkaloid content of potato cultivars on exposure to light
Authors: De M. J. , Bain Maine H. , Joyce Jacqueline A. L.
Published: March 2009

The total glycoalkaloid (TGA) content of tubers of ten potato cultivars exposed to the light for 42 h significantly increased (P < 0·001). on average, above that of tubers kept in the dark. There were significant differences in the percentage changes in TGA content (P < 0·05) and in the intensity of tuber greening after exposure (P < 0·05) between cultivars although there was no correlation between the two characters.
Comparison of early, normal and late sowing at three rates of nitrogen on the yield, grain nitrogen and screenings content of Blenheim spring malting barley in Ireland
Authors: Conry M. J.
Published: March 2009

Nine experiments were carried out on three different soil types in the south-east of Ireland over three years (1989, 1992 and 1993) to test the effect of early, normal and late sowing at three rates of fertilizer nitrogen (100, 125, 150 kg/ha) on the yield and grain quality ex-farm of spring malting barley (cv. Blenheim). Early sowing (January or February) was not possible in 1990 and 1991 due to wet weather. Sowing date had a pronounced effect on grain yield and grain N content in all three years. In 1989 and 1992, the earliest-sown barley (January or February) gave significantly greater yields than latersown crops (March and April) in five of the six experiments. The earliest-sown barley gave the lowest grain N in all six experiments and there was a gradual and significant increase in grain N content as sowing date was delayed. In 1993 the earliest-sown barley (February) gave significantly lower yield and greater grain N than the March-sown crop in all three experiments. The lower yield of the February-sown barley in 1993 was due to the significantly reduced number of grains/ear. The Aprilsown barley gave significantly lower yield and greater grain N than the earlier-sown crops in eight out of the nine experiments. In 1989 and 1992 only one of the six experiments, Ferns 1992, gave a significant yield response to increased rate of N (125 kg/ha). But in 1993, 125 kg N/ha significantly increased grain yield in all three experiments and 150 kg N/ha gave a further significant increase in yield in two of the experiments. Increasing increments of fertilizer N significantly increased grain N in all nine experiments.
Seasonal changes in intake and digestion of chopped timothy hay (Phleum pratense) by three breeds of sheep
Authors: Iason G. R. , Sim D. A. , Foreman E.
Published: March 2009

The voluntary food intake (VFI) and apparent digestibility of chopped timothy hay by six Scottish Blackface (BF), Shetland (SH) and Dorset Horn (DH) non-breeding ewes were assessed in summer and winter. In two experiments VFI was higher in summer than in winter but did not differ between the breeds. In Expt 1, the seasonal difference in VFI was greater in BF and SH than in DH ewes and the apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and total nitrogen was consistently higher in all three breeds in summer than in winter. The higher digestibility of DM of the hay in summer than in winter was confirmed in Expt 2, in which the whole tract mean retention time (MRT) of the undigested residues was measured using 103ruthenium-phenanthroline as a marker. The MRT was lower in all three breeds in summer than in winter. In a third experiment, following at least 6 months ad libitum feeding on the hay, for all three breeds the contents of DM and liquid in the reticulorumen were smaller in summer, and the liquid fraction formed a greater proportion in summer than in winter. The results contrast with the expectation that intake and digestibility within a given forage type are negatively correlated. Although an increase in digestibility may facilitate a higher VFI in summer (BF and SH) it does not necessarily do so (DH).
An evaluation of F1 hybrid winter wheat genotypes produced using a chemical hybridizing agent
Authors: Morgan C. L. , Austin R. B. , Ford Margaret A. , Bingham J. , Angus W. J. , Chowdhury S.
Published: March 2009

In experiments harvested in 1985 and 1986 the grain yields of 61 F1 hybrids among winter wheat varieties and advanced breeding lines were 5·9% greater than the yields of the best parents. In a trial with 430 hybrids in 1986, the hybrids yielded 3·6% more grain than the best parents. Among these 430 hybrids heterosis for yield was greatest for those from the lowest yielding parents. This result is taken to indicate that among these genotypes most genes for high yield have been fixed in the highest yielding parents.

The hybrids had slightly fewer ears/m2, but more grains per ear and heavier grains than the highest yielding parents. They yielded more straw as well as more grain.

The results are compared with those from other studies and it is concluded that yield advantage of F1 hybrids so far tested is not generally sufficient to justify their introduction into U.K. agriculture.
Effect of date of application and form of nitrogen on herbage production in spring
Authors: Stevens R. J. , Gracey H. I. , Kilpatrick D. J. , Camlin M. S. , O'Neill D. G. , McLaughlan W.
Published: March 2009

Field plot experiments were carried out for 3 years at four sites to study the effect of date of application of ammonium nitrate/calcium carbonate (CAN) and urea (U) on perennial ryegrass production in spring. Fertilizer (70 kg N/ha) was applied at weekly intervals for 10 weeks from 1 February. Herbage was cut on the same day at all sites, 3–4 weeks after the last N application. CAN and U at 50 kg N/ha were immediately re-applied and a second cut of herbage was taken after 4–5 weeks. From meteorological data, the dates after 1 February when soil temperature at 100 mm depth increased to 5·5 °C and the dates when cumulative average daily air temperatures < 0 °C from 1 January reached 200 °C were calculated for each site and year.

The date of application for maximum dry matter (D.M.) yield at the first cut differed with site and year, but for 11 of the 12 site/years was in February. The number of dates of application resulting in optimum yield (i.e. at least 90% of the average maximum yield response to CAN or U) varied also with site and year from one to six. Soil and air temperature predictive systems implied a precision in choice of application date that was unjustified and were no more successful at predicting the optimum application date than a simple date range. The first fertilizer application had a pronounced positive residual effect on D.M. yields at the second cut. Less precision on date of the first application was required to obtain optimum cumulative yields over both cuts than optimum yield at the first cut only.

Differences in performance between CAN and U were only significant for three of the 120 fertilizer applications at the first cut. On these occasions, all in one year at two sites, U gave higher yields than CAN. Correlations were sought between D.M. yield response and growth period, air temperature, long-term rainfall and short-term rainfall for CAN and U separately. Factors relating to rainfall had no significant effect on response to U but response to CAN showed a significant negative correlation with short-term rainfall. The short-term weather forecast may therefore be another criterion to be considered in deciding when to apply N in early spring.
Agricultural research in the United Kingdom. Present structures of the Agricultural and Food Research Council
Authors: Jamieson B. G.
Published: March 2009

There have been considerable changes during the last ten years in the ways in which agricultural research is organized in many countries. These changes are of interest to our readers and for this reason the Editors have invited the Agricultural and Food Research Council of the United Kingdom to explain present structures within that organization. The Agricultural and Food Research Council receives funds for research directly from the Department of Education and Science (c. £54 million per year) and through commissions from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (c. £44 million) as well as from commercial and other organizations (c. £13 million). It advises the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland, which is the body responsible for the Scottish agricultural research institutes (spending c. £22 million per year), on scientific aspects of the research they finance and also provides support to universities and other educational establishments for the support of scientific studies relevant to agriculture and food.
Use of climatic data for estimating nitrogen fertilizer requirements of dryland wheat
Authors: Korentajer L. , Berlinger P. R. , Dijkhus F. J. , Van Zyl J.
Published: March 2009

The effect of moisture stress on N fertilizer needs of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was assessed using yield and meteorological data from N x P and N x P x K factorial trials, conducted on farmers' fields in a summer and a winter rainfall area in South Africa in 1979–84. Three to five rates of N fertilizer between 15 and 135 kg N/ha (plus control) and two to four replicates were used. The data were statistically analysed by a multiple regression yield model using applied N rate, N, and seasonal moisture stress, S, as the explanatory variables. A good positive correlation (r = 0.83, S.E. = 0.341 t/ha, D.F. = 48) was obtained between the estimated and the observed yields. The effects of S on Nmax and Novl (i.e. the N rates corresponding to maximum yield and an economically optimal rate, respectively), were evaluated. For 0.05 < S 7lt; 0.3, the range of S values representative of dryland cropping conditions, Nmax was largely independent of S, whereas Nopl increased sharply with decreasing S. The results indicated that N-response models which include moisture stress parameters may be used to determine the cropping areas climatically most suitable for wheat cultivation.
Investigations into the Intensive System of Grassland Management. By the Agricultural Research Staff of Imperial Chemical Industries, Limited. VI. The Digestibility and Feeding value of Grass Silage made in a Stack.
Authors: Watson S. J.
Published: March 2009

It may be concluded from this trial that the making of stack silage is a useful method of conserving surplus grass, particularly of the after-math type, when good haymaking weather may not obtain. Though no actual feeding trials were carried out with the silage, it was fed to stock with satisfactory results and formed a large proportion of their winterration.
The protein content of grass, chiefly meadow foxtail (Alopecurus pratensis), as influenced by frequency of cutting
Authors: Shutt Frank T. , Hamilton S. N. , Selwyn H. H.
Published: March 2009

From a study of the data of two season's work the following observations may be made:

Frequency of grazing with a view to the successful operation of the scheme will depend on a number of factors, chief among which is the character of the herbage and its growth. Recovery and vigour of growth are primarily dependent on rainfall and secondarily on the fertility of the soil, which may be increased by fertiliser applications. Rainfall, its amount and distribution, has in this investigation shown itself the most potent of all influences in the recovery of the plots. The results in general of 1928 indicate that the application of fertilisers, in which nitrogen predominates, greatly assisted in the maintenance of vigorous growth.

The protein content of the herbage increases with the shortening of the period between cuttings, due in the first season solely to the fact that the protein content of the grass falls off with age, but in the second and subsequent seasons, in a very large measure, to the incursion of white Dutch clover.

A consideration of protein yields per acre in relation to frequency of cutting reveals that in the first season, when the herbage is essentially grass, the shortening of the period between cuttings tends to reduce the protein yield; in the second season, when clover replaces grass, roughly in proportion to the shortening of the growing period, the higher protein content of the legume tends to counteract the depressing effect on yield of frequent cutting.
George Henry Falkiner Nuttall and the origins of parasitology and Parasitology
Authors: COX F. E. G.
Published: March 2009

By the beginning of the twentieth century, most of the major discoveries concerning the nature and life cycles of parasites had been made and tropical medicine was beginning to establish itself as a discipline but parasitology still lacked any real cohesion or focus. This focus arrived in 1908 when George Nuttall founded a new journal, Parasitology, as a Supplement to the Journal of Hygiene in order to cater for increasing numbers of papers on protozoological, helminthological and entomological topics that were being submitted for publication to that journal, thus bringing these three subjects together under one heading and, in doing so, established the discipline of parasitology. The events leading up to and the subsequent development of the discipline are discussed.
The interrelation of the law of occupation and economic, social and cultural rights: the examples of food, health and property
Authors: Vité Sylvain
Published: March 2009

The current legal regime relative to occupation is no longer based solely on the contributions made by customary law and treaty-based law as set forth in the law of The Hague and the law of Geneva. It has undergone a thorough change with the progressive recognition of the applicability of human rights law to the situations which it governs, and their complementarity has been highlighted on several occasions. The question of the interrelation of international humanitarian law and human rights is not resolved merely by analysing their respective areas of application. The author examines the issue at the level of their individual rules. He considers whether the rules of international humanitarian law are confirmed, complemented, relativized or even contradicted by those deriving from human rights. The analysis focuses more particularly on the interrelation of the law of occupation and economic, social and cultural rights by concentrating on the promotion of adequate standards of living (right to food, right to health) and respect for property.
Phylogenetic relationships of the spider family Tetragnathidae (Araneae, Araneoidea) based on morphological and DNA sequence data
Authors: Álvarez‐Padilla Fernando , Dimitrov Dimitar , Giribet Gonzalo , Hormiga Gustavo
Published: March 2009

The monophyly of Tetragnathidae including the species composition of the family (e.g., Are Nephila and their relatives part of this lineage?), the phylogenetic relationships of its various lineages, and the exact placement of Tetragnathidae within Araneoidea have been three recalcitrant problems in spider systematics. Most studies on tetragnathid phylogeny have focused on morphological and behavioral data, but little molecular work has been published to date. To address these issues we combine previous morphological and behavioral data with novel molecular data including nuclear ribosomal RNA genes 18S and 28S, mitochondrial ribosomal RNA genes 12S and 16S and protein‐coding genes from the mitochondrion [cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI)] and from the nucleus (histone H3), totaling ca. 6.3 kb of sequence data per taxon. These data were analyzed using direct optimization and static homology using both parsimony and Bayesian methods. Our results indicate monophyly of Tetragnathidae, Tetragnathinae, Leucauginae, the “Nanometa clade” and the subfamily Metainae, which, with the exception of the later subfamily, received high nodal support. Morphological synapomorphies that support these clades are also discussed. The position of tetragnathids with respect to the rest of the araneoid spiders remains largely unresolved but tetragnathids and nephilids were never recovered as sister taxa. The combined dataset suggests that Nephilidae is sister to Araneidae; furthermore, the sister group of Nephila is the clade composed by Herennia plus Nephilengys and this pattern has clear implications for understanding the comparative biology of the group. Tetragnathidae is most likely sister to some members of the “reduced piriform clade” and nephilids constitute the most‐basal lineage of araneids.
Chromosome segregation machinery and cancer
Authors: Tanaka Kozo , Hirota Toru
Published: March 2009

Loss or gain of chromosomes is associated with many cancer cells. This property, called chromosome instability, might arise from a lesion in the chromosome segregation machinery. Essential for chromosome segregation are the proper connection of microtubules to kinetochores, and the synchronous segregation of sister chromatids in anaphase. Accuracy of these processes is ensured by two sophisticated machineries called the correction mechanism and the spindle assembly checkpoint. Here we outline the current understanding of the underlying mechanisms, and highlight recent challenging experiments to address how chromosome segregation failure might relate to tumorigenesis. Understanding these mechanisms may lead to the discovery of new and improved anticancer therapies. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 1158–1165)
Risk factors for high cerebral blood flow velocity and death in Kenyan children with Sickle Cell Anaemia: role of haemoglobin oxygen saturation and febrile illness
Authors: Makani Julie , Kirkham Fenella J. , Komba Albert , Ajala‐Agbo Tolulope , Otieno Godfrey , Fegan Gregory , Williams Thomas N. , Marsh Kevin , Newton Charles R.
Published: March 2009

High cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) and low haemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2) predict neurological complications in sickle cell anaemia (SCA) but any association is unclear. In a cross‐sectional study of 105 Kenyan children, mean CBFv was 120 ± 34·9 cm/s; 3 had conditional CBFv (170–199 cm/s) but none had abnormal CBFv (>200 cm/s). After adjustment for age and haematocrit, CBFv ≥150 cm/s was predicted by SpO2 ≤ 95% and history of fever. Four years later, 10 children were lost to follow‐up, none had suffered neurological events and 11/95 (12%) had died, predicted by history of fever but not low SpO2. Natural history of SCA in Africa may be different from North America and Europe.
Stable isotope analysis of archived roach (Rutilus rutilus) scales for retrospective study of shallow lake responses to nutrient reduction
Authors: GREY JONATHAN , GRAHAM CONOR T. , BRITTON J. ROBERT , HARROD CHRIS
Published: March 2009

1. There is increasing interest in the use of stable isotope analysis of archived materials to study the long‐term impacts of lake perturbations, including nutrient manipulation or species invasion. We tested the utility of this approach in a shallow productive lake using the zooplanktivorous early life stages of roach (Rutilus rutilus), a fish species that is widespread throughout Eurasian lakes.

2. Barton Broad is a shallow lake with a well‐documented history of earlier eutrophication followed by nutrient reduction, including sediment removal from 1997 to 2000. Using scale samples collected pre‐ and post‐sediment removal, we demonstrated a strong, positive relationship between roach scale δ13C and total phosphorus. We argue that this reflects a decrease in the phytoplankton production which had dominated dissolved inorganic carbon dynamics, and a relative increase in the contribution of respired carbon in the food web.

3. We also derived a scale : muscle isotope relationship for roach which allowed us to model changes in fish muscle against putative prey. Concomitant isotopic shifts in preserved zooplankton samples indicated that the phosphorus reduction measures had an ecosystem‐wide impact and that changes in roach scale isotope values were not a result of fish switching diet.

4. Roach scale δ15N increased after sediment removal. Since this was not due to a switch in fish diet, we suggest that it probably reflects the loss of nitrogen‐fixing, heterocystous cyanobacteria from the plankton.
Two small ncRNAs jointly govern virulence and transmission in Legionella pneumophila
Authors: Sahr Tobias , Brüggemann Holger , Jules Matthieu , Lomma Mariella , Albert‐Weissenberger Christiane , Cazalet Christel , Buchrieser Carmen
Published: March 2009

To transit from intra‐ to extracellular environments, Legionella pneumophila differentiates from a replicative/non‐virulent to a transmissive/virulent form using the two‐component system LetA/LetS and the global repressor protein CsrA. While investigating how both regulators act co‐ordinately we characterized two ncRNAs, RsmY and RsmZ, that link the LetA/LetS and CsrA regulatory networks. We demonstrate that LetA directly regulates their expression and show that RsmY and RsmZ are functional in Escherichia coli and are able to bind CsrA in vitro. Single mutants have no (ΔrsmY) or a little (ΔrsmZ) impact on virulence, but the ΔrsmYZ strain shows a drastic defect in intracellular growth in Acanthamoeba castellanii and THP‐1 monocyte‐derived macrophages. Analysis of the transcriptional programmes of the ΔletA, ΔletS and ΔrsmYZ strains revealed that the switch to the transmissive phase is partially blocked. One major difference between the ΔletA, ΔletS and ΔrsmYZ strains was that the latter synthesizes flagella. Taken together, LetA activates transcription of RsmY and RsmZ, which sequester CsrA and abolish its post‐transcriptional repressive activity. However, the RsmYZ‐CsrA pathway appears not to be the main or only regulatory circuit governing flagella synthesis. We suggest that rather RpoS and LetA, by influencing LetE and probably cyclic‐di‐GMP levels, regulate motility in L. pneumophila.
MULTI‐CRITERIA OPTIMIZATION OF REGIONAL EMPLOYMENT POLICY: A SIMULATION ANALYSIS FOR GERMANY
Authors: Tangian Andranik
Published: March 2009

The distribution of European and national aid among 271 German labor market regions is considered as an optimization problem with three targets: (i) interregional equalization of unemployment rates; (ii) minimization of total (national) unemployment; and (iii) maximization of GDP, subject to budget constraints and some administrative restrictions. The analysis of the German program in 2000–2002 shows that the results actually obtained for 6 billion euro required only 241 million euro under optimal planning (4% of the actual budget). Such an inappropriate implementation of active labor market policies can be the cause of low efficiency, often misinterpreted as uselessness. This paper suggests a decision aid for optimal planning and shows that tax returns from the additional GDP due to jobs subsidized can transform regional policy into a winning governmental strategy.
Taphonomic Effects of Vulture Scavenging*
Authors: Reeves Nicole M.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  From July through September 2007, three pig carcasses (Sus scrofa), weighing between 27 and 63 kg were placed outside in a grassy area in central Texas. A surrounding fence prevented entrance by terrestrial scavengers, while allowing avian scavengers unrestricted access. A fourth pig carcass served as a control for the rate of decomposition and was placed in a cage that prevented terrestrial and avian animal access. Modification of the carcasses was recorded through the use of two motion‐sensing digital cameras and daily on‐site observations. American black vultures (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) waited c. 24 h before beginning to scavenge and completely skeletonized the carcasses in 3 to 27 h of feeding, leaving scratches on the bones. The accelerated rate of decomposition and the signature markings on the bones should be considered when interpreting taphonomic events and determining an accurate postmortem interval at vulture‐modified scenes.
Prolactin regulatory element–binding protein involved in cAMP‐mediated suppression of adiponectin gene
Authors: Li Junhua , Murao Koji , Imachi Hitomi , Yu Xiao , Muraoka Tomie , Kim Jae Bum , Ishida Toshihiko
Published: March 2009

Adiponectin (ApN) has several protective effects against diabetes and atherosclerosis. However, the detailed mechanisms of the regulation of the ApN gene have not yet been clarified. Prolactin regulatory element–binding (PREB) protein has been identified as a factor that regulates insulin gene expression in the pancreas. PREB is located not only in the pancreas but also in adipose tissue; however, its role in adipose tissue is not known. To analyse the effects of PREB on ApN gene transcription, we employed a reporter gene assay and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). In the cells expressing or knocking down the PREB, ApN expression was determined. PREB was located mainly in the nuclei of adipose tissue and its cell line, 3T3‐L1 cells. The nuclear extract contained ApN promoter‐binding activity that was super‐shifted by PREB antiserum in EMSA studies. In the 3T3‐L1 cells, the co‐expression of PREB and the ApN promoter inhibited the activity of the latter. The addition of cAMP to the cells increased PREB expression in a dose‐dependent manner. A deletional analysis of the ApN promoter showed that the PREB‐responsive cis‐element in the ApN promoter mediated the transcriptional effect of PREB, whereas a mutant of this motif in the ApN promoter abrogated the effect of PREB, as well as that of cAMP. Furthermore, cells expressing or knocking down PREB exhibited decreased and increased ApN expression, respectively. These results demonstrate that PREB may contribute to the regulation of ApN gene transcription, in response to cAMP activation in adipocytes.
APPRAISING THE ETHOS OF EXPERIENTIAL NARRATIVES: KEY ASPECTS OF A METHODOLOGICAL CHALLENGE
Authors: Conle Carola , DeBeyer Michael
Published: March 2009

Abstract

In this essay, Carola Conle and Michael deBeyer describe their efforts to find a conceptual approach and methodology for the appraisal of the ethos of experiential narratives presented in a particular curriculum context. The language of “implied authorship,”“the patterning of desire,” and “friendships offered and received,” first introduced by Wayne Booth, is elaborated through data from narrative presentations given by local heroes to students. Appraisals seemed possible when a narrative could be placed on Booth’s “scales of friendship” and when the rational qualities of experiential narratives were considered. In addition, data needed to be available in which students’ experiential encounters with the narratives could be seen as occasions where, during such moments of encounter, feelings and desires were created, memories were activated, and events and actions in a narrative were vicariously experienced through those activated phenomena. The authors offer a potential framework for future appraisals.
MAKING SENSE OF TRAUMATIC EVENTS: TOWARD A POLITICS OF APORETIC MOURNING IN EDUCATIONAL THEORY AND PEDAGOGY
Authors: Zembylas Michalinos
Published: March 2009

Abstract In this essay, Michalinos Zembylas examines how the work of mourning can evoke public and school pedagogies that provide an alternative way of relating to otherness and trauma — not through remaining fixated on simply representing the other’s or one’s own trauma, but in the insistence on remaining inconsolable before suffering. A major concern is the normalization of mourning in school and public discourses through the establishment of boundaries between grievable and ungrievable lives. Zembylas argues that the violence unleashed through national mourning and the reproduction of loss through rituals of commemoration in schools raise important issues about the ethics and politics of mourning embedded in public and school pedagogies. Using two examples of the workings of mourning — one in the context of the South African reconciliation tribunals and the other in the context of collective mourning of Missing Persons in his home country of Cyprus — Zembylas demonstrates that the recognition of our common vulnerability to loss can form the groundwork of school and public pedagogies of aporetic mourning.
Oxidative Stress Alters Creatine Kinase System in Serum and Brain Regions of Polychlorinated Biphenyl (Aroclor 1254)‐Exposed Rats: Protective Role of Melatonin
Authors: Venkataraman Prabhu , Krishnamoorthy Gunasekaran , Selvakumar Kandaswamy , Arunakaran Jagadeesan
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Polychlorinated biphenyls are one of the environmental toxicants and neurotoxic compounds which induce the production of free radicals. Creatine kinase plays a key role in energy metabolism of nervous tissue and might be one of the targets for reactive oxygen species. Melatonin, an indoleamine, plays an important role in neurodegenerative diseases as an antioxidant and neuroprotector. The objective of the present study was to investigate the protective role of melatonin on polychlorinated biphenyl (Aroclor 1254)‐induced oxidative stress and the changes in creatine kinase activity in brain regions of adult rats. Group I: rats were intraperitoneally (i.p.) administered with corn oil (vehicle) for 30 days. Group II: rats injected i.p. with Aroclor 1254 at 2 mg/kg body weight (bw)/day for 30 days. Groups III and IV: rats i.p. received melatonin (5 or 10 mg/kg bw/day) simultaneously with Aroclor 1254 for 30 days. After 30 days, rats were killed and the brain regions were dissected to cerebral cortex, cerebellum and hippocampus. Lipid peroxidation, hydroxyl radical and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels were determined. The activity of creatine kinase was assayed in serum and brain regions, and its isoenzymes in serum were separated electrophoretically. Activity of creatine kinase was decreased while an increase in H2O2, hydroxyl radical and lipid peroxidation was observed in brain regions of polychlorinated biphenyl‐treated rats. Also polychlorinated biphenyl exposure showed a significant increase in serum creatine kinase level and its isoforms such as BB‐creatine kinase, MB‐creatine kinase, and MM‐creatine kinase. Administration of melatonin prevented these alterations induced by polychlorinated biphenyl by its free radical scavenging mechanism. Thus, polychlorinated biphenyl alters creatine kinase activity by inducing oxidative stress in brain regions, which can be protected by melatonin.