bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution in stressful environments II: adaptive value and costs of plasticity in response to low light in Sinapis arvensis
Authors: Steinger T. , Roy B. A. , Stanton M. L.
Published: March 2003

Plants possess a remarkable capacity to alter their phenotype in response to the highly heterogeneous light conditions they commonly encounter in natural environments. In the present study with the weedy annual plant Sinapis arvensis, we (a) tested for the adaptive value of phenotypic plasticity in morphological and life history traits in response to low light and (b) explored possible fitness costs of plasticity. Replicates of 31 half-sib families were grown individually in the greenhouse under full light and under low light (40% of ambient) imposed by neutral shade cloth. Low light resulted in a large increase in hypocotyl length and specific leaf area (SLA), a reduction in juvenile biomass and a delayed onset of flowering. Phenotypic selection analysis within each light environment revealed that selection favoured large SLA under low light, but not under high light, suggesting that the observed increase in SLA was adaptive. In contrast, plasticity in the other traits measured was maladaptive (i.e. in the opposite direction to that favoured by selection in the low light environment). We detected significant additive genetic variance in plasticity in most phenotypic traits and in fitness (number of seeds). Using genotypic selection gradient analysis, we found that families with high plasticity in SLA had a lower fitness than families with low plasticity, when the effect of SLA on fitness was statistically kept constant. This indicates that plasticity in SLA incurred a direct fitness cost. However, a cost of plasticity was only expressed under low light, but not under high light. Thus, models on the evolution of phenotypic plasticity will need to incorporate plasticity costs that vary in magnitude depending on environmental conditions.
24‐hour 51Cr post‐transfusion survival, 51Cr life span and haemolysis of red blood cells stored at 4 °C for 56 days in AS‐3
Authors: Valeri C. R. , Pivacek L. E. , Cassidy G. P. , Ragno G.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives

Red blood cells (RBC) were collected either by a manual method using a 16‐gauge needle or by an apheresis procedure using an 18‐gauge needle, and were stored at 4 °C in a solution of CP2D (anticoagulant)/AS‐3 (Nutricel) for 56 days. The purpose was to compare the outcome of the autotransfused red cells collected by both techniques.

Materials and Methods

Five healthy male volunteers were studied on two occasions.

Results

The autotransfusions of the manual and apheresed RBC resulted in a mean 24‐h post‐transfusion survival of 71%, a normal mean 51Cr RBC life span, a 2,3 DPG level that was less than 10% of normal, and 0·6% haemolysis.

Conclusions

Whether collected manually or by apheresis, the outcomes were similar for RBC stored at 4 °C for 56 days in CP2D/AS‐3.
Bacteria‐induced release of white cell‐ and platelet‐derived vascular endothelial growth factor in vitro
Authors: Nielsen H. J. , Werther K. , Mynster T. , Svendsen M. N. , Rosendahl S. , Elley T. , Skov F.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives

Poor prognosis after resection of primary colorectal cancer may be related to the combination of perioperative blood transfusion and subsequent development of infectious complications. White blood cell‐ and platelet‐derived cancer growth substances, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), may be involved in this process. Therefore, we studied the in vitro release of VEGF from white blood cells and platelets stimulated by bacterial antigens and supernatants from stored red cell components.

Materials and Methods

Eight units of whole blood (WB) and eight units of buffy‐coat‐depleted red cell (SAGM) blood were donated by healthy blood donors. Subsequently, half of every unit was leucocyte depleted by filtration, and all 32 half‐units were stored under standard conditions for 35 days. Just after storage, and on days 7, 21 and 35 during storage, aliquots of the supernatants were removed from the units and frozen at −80 °C. WB from other healthy donors was stimulated for 2 h with sodium chloride (controls), with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) alone, or with LPS plus supernatants from the non‐filtered or prestorage leucofiltered WB units (diluted 1 : 10), or from non‐filtered or prestorage leucofiltered SAGM blood units (diluted 1 : 20) stored for 0, 7, 21, or 35 days, respectively. Similar assays were performed using Staphylococcus aureus‐derived protein A as a stimulatory antigen. The concentration of VEGF was determined in supernatants from stored blood and in assay supernatants by using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The concentration of VEGF increased significantly (P < 0·0001) in a storage time‐dependent manner in non‐filtered WB and SAGM blood, while the increase was abrogated by prestorage leucofiltration. The supernatant concentration of VEGF was significantly increased in LPS‐stimulated (P = 0·002) and in protein A‐stimulated (P < 0·0001) assays compared with controls. Addition of supernatants from stored, non‐filtered WB or SAGM significantly increased the assay supernatant VEGF concentration storage‐time dependently (P = 0·006) in LPS assays. In protein A assays, only supernatants from non‐filtered WB significantly increased the assay supernatant VEGF concentration storage‐time dependently (P = 0·022). This additional effect by supernatants from stored blood components was not observed with prestorage leucofiltered blood.

Conclusions

Extracellular VEGF may accumulate in non‐filtered red cell components, but this can be prevented by prestorage leucocyte depletion using filtration. In addition, bacterial antigens appear to induce release of VEGF from white blood cells and platelets. Addition of supernatants from stored, non‐filtered WB or SAGM blood may increase the VEGF levels in a storage time‐dependent manner, while prestorage leucofiltration may prevent further increase by supernatants.
Detection of enterovirus viraemia in blood donors
Authors: Welch J. B. , McGowan K. , Searle B. , Gillon J. , Jarvis L. M. , Simmonds P.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives

The infrastructure established for screening blood donations for hepatitis C virus has enabled large‐scale population testing for other viruses which are potentially transmissible by transfusion of blood components and plasma‐derived blood products. We have measured the frequency of viraemia of enteroviruses and parechoviruses in 83 600 Scottish blood donors to allow an initial assessment of their risk to blood safety.

Materials and Methods

Plasma samples collected from blood donors over 7 calendar months were tested anonymously in mini‐pools of 95 donations, by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for human enterovirus and parechovirus sequences.

Results

A total of 19 mini‐pools, from the 880 that were tested, were PCR‐positive for enterovirus RNA, predicting a donor prevalence of 0·023%. Enterovirus sequences were not detected in factor VIII or IX clotting factor concentrates. None of the 230 mini‐pools or concentrates contained detectable parechovirus RNA.

Conclusions

The prevalence of enterovirus viraemia detected in this study predicts that at least 1000 enterovirus‐contaminated blood components are transfused per year in the UK. The frequency of transmission and clinical outcome after exposure to enterovirus‐contaminated blood components in recipients is unknown.
Use of recombinant factor VIIa to treat persistent bleeding following dental extractions in two cirrhotic patients
Authors: Berthier A.‐M. , Guillygomarc’h A. , Messner M. , Pommereuil M. , Bader G. , De Mello G.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives A single dose of recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) has been shown to be effective and safe in correcting the prothrombin time (PT) in cirrhotic patients, but no clinical data exists demonstrating its efficacy in arresting active bleeding.

Materials and Methods rFVIIa was used in two cirrhotic patients for persistent bleeding following dental extractions despite repeated treatment at the wound site and, in one case, repeated administrations of fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP).

Results Bleeding stopped promptly in both patients after administration of rFVIIa. However, bleeding recurred in the patient who had not received concomitant treatment at the extraction sites. No recurrence of bleeding was observed in the second patient, who underwent local treatment 15 min after rFVIIa.

Conclusions Recombinant factor VIIa arrested bleeding after dental extractions in two cirrhotic patients who had been unsuccessfully treated with FFP. However, additional local treatment is needed to limit the risk of recurrence as a result of the short half‐life of rFVIIa.
Back‐priming of the RCM1™ leucocyte‐reduction filter: consequences for filtration efficacy
Authors: Kjeldsen‐Kragh J. , Golebiowska E.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives The RCM1™ leucocyte‐reduction filter has been incorporated into two types of blood‐donation sets of which one uses back‐priming of the leucocyte filter with SAG‐M solution. In this study we have compared the leucocyte‐reduction efficacy of the RCM1™ filter with or without back priming with SAG‐M solution.

Materials and Methods This study was a retrospective analysis of quality control data of 3529 leucocyte‐filtered red cell units. Of these, 1002 whole‐blood units were collected in a donation set that was back‐primed by letting the SAG‐M solution in the final storage bag run backwards through the filter into the bag of concentrated red cells. The remaining 2527 units were collected in a donation set that required no back‐priming. Postfiltration leucocyte concentration was assessed using flow cytometry.

Results There was a significant trend towards lower leucocyte concentration in the units in which back‐priming of the filter preceded filtration, as compared to units filtered without back‐priming [χ2trend= 18·8, degrees of freedom (d.f.) = 1, P < 0·0005].

Conclusions Back‐priming of the RCM1™ filter for red cells with SAG‐M solution is superior to no back‐priming with regard to leucocyte‐reduction efficacy.
Allogeneic blood transfusion and postoperative duration of mechanical ventilation: effects of red cell supernatant, platelet supernatant, plasma components and total transfused fluid
Authors: Vamvakas E. C. , Carven J. H.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives In patients undergoing open‐heart surgery, allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) may be related to an enhanced inflammatory response and impaired pulmonary function, resulting in a need for prolonged mechanical ventilation. Transfused red blood cell (RBC) supernatant, platelet supernatant or plasma components, may exercise varying effects on pulmonary function, because these fluids differ in their content of soluble biological‐response modifiers.

Materials and Methods The records of 416 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft operations at the Massachusetts General Hospital were reviewed. Possible predictors and the number of days of postoperative ventilation, as well as the number of all transfused blood components, were recorded. The association between mechanical ventilation past the day of operation and the volume of transfused RBC supernatant, platelet supernatant, or plasma components, was calculated by logistic regression analyses.

Results The volume of each transfused fluid differed (P < 0·0001) among patients ventilated for 0, 1, 2, 3, or ≥ 4 days after the day of the operation. After adjusting for the effects of confounding factors, the volume of administered RBC supernatant was associated (P = 0·0312) with the likelihood of postoperative ventilation past the day of operation, but the volume of platelet supernatant, plasma components, or total transfused fluid was not (P = 0·1528, P = 0·1847, and P = 0·0504, respectively).

Conclusions These results are congruent with the hypotheses that ABT may impair postoperative pulmonary function and that any such adverse effect of ABT is probably mediated by the supernatant fluid of stored RBCs. Both hypotheses should be examined further, in future studies of the outcomes of ABT.
Removal of T and B lymphocytes by in‐line filtration: evaluation of the efficiency of a polyester filter type (Pall WBF‐2) by flow cytometric counting
Authors: Guber S. E. , Neumüller J. , Schwartz D. W. M. , Köhler M. , Mayr W. R.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate whether in‐line filtration, using a polyester filter for the preparation of red cell concentrates (RCC) and plasma (PL), leads to an altered proportion of T and B lymphocytes in the fraction of residual white blood cells (WBC).

Materials and Methods The capacity of Pall WBF‐2 in‐line filters to reduce the numbers of T and B lymphocytes from red blood cell concentrates (RCC) and plasma (PL) of 22 donations was investigated by three‐colour flow cytometry (FC) using the Tritest‐Trucount kit. T and B lymphocytes were identified using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against CD3, CD19 and CD45, conjugated with fluorescein isothiocyanate, phycoerythrin or peridinin chlorophyll protein‐A, respectively. As the number of B cells was below the detection limit of the FC method, WBC of the respective blood components of healthy donors were concentrated 25‐fold by Percoll density‐gradient centrifugation. In this fraction the absolute numbers of T and B cells, as well as their ratio, were determined using the Attractor software, which provides a discrimination of rare cell counts from FC in relation to debris.

Results The mean numbers, as well as minima and maxima of T and B lymphocytes per unit, were as follows. T cells in RCC: 4·51 × 103 (1·68 × 102−4·09 × 104) and in PL: 1·35 × 103 (2·21–1·78 × 104); B cells in RCC: 2·33 × 103 (7·10 × 101−9·15 × 103) and in PL: 2·33 × 102 (7·5 × 102−2·8 × 103). T cells were retained, on average, at a higher level than B cells: 3·01 times higher in RCC and 1·01 times higher in PL.

Conclusion After filtration, the ratio of T and B lymphocytes changed in RCC (1·95 : 1) compared with unfiltered blood, where it was 5·83 : 1. In PL the ratio did not change notably compared to unfiltered blood. The results of this research show that cell concentration (using gradient centrifugation) in combination with an appropriate FC acquisition and analysis procedure, allows both residual T and B lymphocytes (being under the detection limit without cell concentration) to be determined.
The influence of platelet additive solutions on cytokine levels and complement activation in platelet concentrates during storage
Authors: Cardigan R. , Sutherland J. , Wadhwa M. , Dilger P. , Thorpe R.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives The accumulation of platelet‐derived cytokines in platelet concentrates (PC) during storage may contribute towards non‐haemolytic transfusion reactions (NHTR). We investigated the effect of platelet storage medium on platelet activation, complement activation and cytokine levels in leucocyte‐reduced PC.

Materials and Methods Hyperconcentrated platelets (3000–6000 × 109/l) were collected by apheresis and diluted in 100% plasma, 70% PASIII, or 70% or 80% PASIII supplemented with magnesium and potassium (PAS IIIM).

Results Levels of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and regulated on activation, normal, T‐cell expressed, and secreted (RANTES) increased during storage, as did the expression of P‐selectin (CD62P), and were highest in PC stored in PASIII. In PC stored in PASIIIM, however, levels of TGF‐β and RANTES were not significantly different from PC stored in plasma. Levels of CD62P expression, however, remained higher in PASIIIM PC than in those stored in plasma by day 5, but were lower than PC stored in PASIII. C3a des arg levels increased during storage in all media with the exception of PASIII and, on day 7, were higher in PC stored in plasma compared to PC stored in the other media.

Conclusions Our results indicate that replacing plasma in PC with unmodified PASIII for storage results in higher levels of platelet‐derived cytokines in PC. Furthermore, it appears that the nature of the medium used for storage of PC has a significant impact on platelet activation and cytokine levels of the PC. These implications should be taken into account when considering replacement of plasma with PAS.
Field treatment of search dogs: lessons learned from the World Trade Center disaster
Authors: Otto Cynthia M , Franz Marc A , Kellogg Barry , Lewis Rick , Murphy Lisa , Lauber Gerald
Published: March 2003

Objective:To provide a synthesis of information learned by the veterinary community during the care and treatment of search and rescue dogs in a large‐scale urban disaster.

Summary:Disaster medicine requires several stages. The most important stage is the planning stage. To function effectively and safely in a disaster situation, a disaster response plan and prior training in disaster response are essential. The execution of a disaster plan requires coordination and communication with multiple agencies. Treatment of search and rescue dogs involves front line field care for life‐threatening emergencies, a first aid station or MASH unit in close proximity to the disaster and/or base of operations for stabilization and general medical care, and local full service veterinary hospitals for specialty and extended care.

New or Unique information provided:This report is a summary of experiences gained in preparing for and implementing veterinary care in a major disaster. Medical conditions that affected search and rescue dogs and were treated by veterinary disaster responders at the World Trade Center are presented.
Cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation in small animals – a clinical practice review (Part 1)
Authors: Cole Steven G. , Otto Cynthia M. , Hughes Dez
Published: March 2003

Objective:To review the principles and practice of cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation (CPCR) in veterinary medicine, and to incorporate recommendations from the human International Guidelines 2000 Conference on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care.

Data sources:Clinical and experimental studies from the human and veterinary literature were reviewed for this manuscript.

Summary:CPCR consists of basic life support measures, advanced life support measures, and post‐resuscitation care. Part I of this article introduces the evidence‐based recommendations from human medicine and reviews basic life support, which consists of establishing a patent airway, providing assisted ventilation, and performing chest compressions. The techniques for both closed chest and open chest CPCR are discussed. Part II of this article will appear in a following issue and will focus on advanced life support and post‐resuscitation care.

Conclusions:Although the prognosis of animals receiving CPCR is generally poor, the likelihood of a successful outcome is improved by the rapid recognition of cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) and the immediate implementation of CPCR efforts. Basic life support measures are the foundation of all CPCR, and these techniques offer the most effective means to achieve return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Some recent recommendations to improve basic life support in humans may be applied to veterinary patients; however, clinical research evaluating these techniques in veterinary CPCR is still necessary.
Craniofacial anthropometry of Hong Kong Chinese babies: the eye
Authors: Fok TF , Hon KL , So HK , Wong E , Ng PC , Lee AKY , Chang A
Published: March 2003

Structured Abstract 

Authors – Fok TF, Hon KL, So HK, Wong E, Ng PC, Lee AKY, Chang A.

Objectives – To provide a database of the canthal measurements of Chinese infants born in Hong Kong.

Design – Prospective cross‐sectional study.

Setting and Sample Population – A total of 2371 healthy singleton, born consecutively at the Prince of Wales Hospital and the Union Hospital from June 1998 to June 2000, were included in the study. The range of gestation was 33 – 42 weeks.

Measurements and Results – Canthal parameters were measured and included the outer canthal distance (OCD), intercanthal distance (ICD) and palpebral fissure length (PFL). The data generally show higher values for males in the parameters measured. The measurements were also compared with data published overseas. PFL and OCD were significantly larger in Hong Kong Chinese newborn babies, whereas ICD was smaller.

Conclusion – This study establishes the first set of gestational age‐specific standard of such craniofacial parameters for Chinese newborn babies, potentially enabling early syndromal diagnosis. There are significant inter‐racial differences in these canthal parameters.
Effects of Mulch from 14 Multipurpose Tree Species (MPTs) on Early Growth and Nodulation of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.)
Authors: Kamara A. Y. , Akobundu I. O. , Sanginga N. , Jutzi S. C.
Published: March 2003

Leaf extracts and mulch from 14 MPTs were used to study their effects on germination, initial growth and nodulation of cowpea. Aqueous leaf extracts of , , and full concentrations were added to cowpea seeds placed in Petri dishes. In the pot experiment, cowpea was planted in plastic pots filled with 1200 g of soil, and mulch was either surface‐applied or incorporated into the substrate at rates equivalent to 5, 10 and 20 tons · ha−1. Leaf extracts from Gliricidia sepium, Senna siamea, Milletia thoningii, Grewia pubescens and Tetrapleura tetraptera reduced cowpea germination significantly at concentrations above 25 % of the full concentration 7 days of incubation. Root length was also strongly reduced by extracts from Gmelina arborea, Senna siamea, Alchornea coordifolia, and Tetrapleura tetraptera. These inhibiting effects were also observed in the pots. Mulch incorporation significantly reduced growth and nodulation of cowpea in the pots. These reductions were more pronounced with the incorporation of mulch from fast decomposing trees such as Leucaena leococephala, Gliricidia sepium and Grewia pubescens. Although Leucaena leucocephala and Gliricidia sepium released much nitrogen, they strongly reduced cowpea growth when incorporated. This may suggest that other reasons than N immobilization caused growth reduction when the plant residues were applied to cowpea.
Relationships between Seed Yield and Chemical Composition of Field Peas Grown under Semi‐arid Mediterranean Conditions
Authors: Al‐Karaki G. N. , Ereifej K. I.
Published: March 2003

Relationships between seed protein, lipid, starch and sugar concentrations and seed yield of 14 pea (Pisum sativum L.) cultivars were examined under rain‐fed conditions in northern Jordan. Significant differences amongst cultivars for each character were noted. The cultivar‐by‐environment interaction was significant for each character except lipid and starch concentrations. A negative correlation was noted between seed yield and seed protein and fructose concentrations. Positive non‐significant correlations between seed yield and seed lipid and starch concentrations were noted. The cultivars DMR‐8, P 350‐1 and 88P022‐6 had similar seed yields, but varied seed chemical components. Seeds of the Praire No. 11 cultivar had the highest protein concentration amongst cultivars, although it produced the lowest seed yield. These results indicate that factors other than seed yield are important for determining the chemical composition of seeds, and that one‐sided selection for high seed yield tends to reduce the nutritional quality of the pea seed.
Effects of Moisture Stress and Anti‐transpirants on Leaf Chlorophyll,
Authors: Prakash M. , Ramachandran K.
Published: March 2003

Brinjal plants (Solanum melongena L.) grown under moisture stress conditions in a glasshouse were treated with three anti‐transpirants, namely cycocel, limewash and potassium chloride, to study their influence on chlorophyll content, soluble protein and photosynthetic rate. Moisture stress imposed at each of the three growth stages decreased chlorophyll content, soluble protein and photosynthetic rate. Of the anti‐transpirants investigated, cycocel performed better than limewash and po‐tassium chloride.
Barley—Salt‐Bush Intercropping for Sustainable Feed Production in a Dry Mediterranean Steppe Environment
Authors: Jones M. J. , Arous Z.
Published: March 2003

Dry rangelands in the Syrian steppe have been degraded by overgrazing and incursions of barley cultivation. Replanting with Atriplex spp. (salt‐bush) is recommended for rehabilitation; but, for land already ploughed, growing barley between atriplex hedges may be the best compromise, providing complementary feed sources and soil protection against wind erosion. The trial described here measured the biomass output of barley and atriplex browse material in a range of treatments, in which hedge dimensions and crop‐strip widths were varied in partial factorial combination. Results over 6 years showed little interaction between hedges and barley crop, but growing the two together tended to buffer total feed output against annual fluctuations due to rainfall variability. An apparent decline in atriplex vigour towards the end of the study period drew attention to the need to optimize browsing pressure on the shrubs. Altogether, the indications are that barley‐atriplex systems have potential to provide sustainable production in currently degraded steppe areas, but essential conditions for success will be full control of land access and skilled management of atriplex shrubs.
Contributions to the Analysis of Genotype × Environment Interactions: Comparison of Different Parametric and Non‐parametric Tests for Interactions with Emphasis on Crossover Interactions
Authors: Truberg B. , Hühn M.
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study was to compare five statistical procedures (analysis of variance, the Azzalini/Cox test, the Hildebrand procedure, the Kubinger approach, and the de Kroon/van der Laan technique) for the analysis of genotype × environment interactions in cross‐classified data sets from cultivar performance yield trials with rows = cultivars and columns = environments (locations and/or years). The procedures Hildebrand, Kubinger and de Kroon/van der Laan are non‐parametric methods based on ranks, while analysis of variance and the Azzalini/Cox test proceed from the original absolute yield data. These very different statistical techniques were applied to extensive data sets from German official registration trials (1985–1989) with winter oilseed rape (Brassica napusL.), faba bean (Vicia fabaL.), oat (Avena sativaL.), fodder beet (Beta vulgarisL.) and sugar beet (Beta vulgarisL.). The Azzalini/Cox and de Kroon/van der Laan methods are based on the crossover concept of interaction (different rank orders) while the other methods are based on the usual concept of interaction (deviations from additivity of main effects). For an analysis of usual interactions the procedures Hildebrand, Kubinger and analysis of variance are approximately equivalent. For the crossover concept of interaction, the Azzalini/Cox approach is recommended, especially if one is particularly interested in rank changes between environments within genotypes.
Influence of Root‐Applied Epibrassinolide and Carbenoxolone on the Nodulation and Growth of Soybean (Glycine max L.) Seedlings
Authors: Hunter W. J.
Published: March 2003

24‐Epibrassinolide belongs to the brassinosteroid family of plant hormones, and carbenoxolone is a synthetic analogue of glycyrrhizic acid that inhibits enzymes important in steroid and prostaglandin action in animals. The effect of these compounds on root nodulation, root growth and shoot growth of Glycine max (L.) Merr. cv. Tracy M was examined. Epibrassinolide reduced total nodulation, plant wet weight, root length, shoot length, first internode length and number of lateral roots. Effects were observed at concentrations as low as 0.1 μM. Carbenoxolone reduced lateral root formation, but did not reduce nodule numbers, root length or weight, nor stem length or weight.
Correlation Analysis of Triticale Morphology, Chlorophyll Content and Productivity
Authors: Kabanova S. N. , Chaika M. T.
Published: March 2003

In some lines and F1 hybrids of winter hexaploid triticale (xTriticosecale Witt.), significant positive associations were found amongst leaf anatomy, plant morphology, chlorophyll content, photochemical activity of chloroplasts, and photosynthetic or grain productivity. The data may be useful in practical triticale breeding.
Symbiotic Interactions between Rhizobium leguminosarum Strains and Elite Cultivars of Pisum sativum L.
Authors: Santalla M. , Amurrio J. M. , De Ron A. M.
Published: March 2003

Pea (Pisum sativum L.) is an important world grain legume and vegetable in the south of Europe where it is grown in small farms and gardens during the cool season. Most of the pea production of this area occurs in high nitrogen (N) soils. Inoculation is required to increase yields through N fixation and reduce the external inputs. Three pea elite cultivars representing human food market classes (green, sugar and dry peas) were studied in order to characterize the cultivars’ variability in symbiotic characters using two Rhizobium leguminosarum biovar viceae commercial strains and the indigenous soil strain, and three N‐fertilization rates. Significant differences were observed among pea elite cultivars for the weight and length of plant parts, and the traits associated with N fixation. Pea cultivars showed a significant cultivar–strain interaction for shoot fresh weight and significant differences among strains were found for nodule fresh weight. Green and sugar pea cultivars had good N fixation with a particular commercial strain, while the dry pea cultivar did not show an effective symbiotic combination. The differences between the pea cultivars could be exploited in breeding programs for enhanced nodulation and N fixation in each pea market class.
N2O‐Freisetzung auf gemähtem Dauergrünland in Abhängigkeit von Standort und N‐Düngung
Authors: Hoffmann Ch. , Anger M. , Kühbauch W.
Published: March 2003

N2O Emissions from True Meadows Dependent on Location and N Fertilization

Agricultural production is thought to be a main anthropogenic emitter of nitrous oxide (N2O), which contributes to global warming and the destruction of the ozone layer. There is still considerable uncertainty about the amount of N2O emission, and the site‐specific parameters that affect N2O emission. From October 1995 until March 1998 experiments were conducted at established field plots (true meadows) at three different sites, i.e. low mountain range (Eifel), lowland (Niederrhein), and moist meadows (Münsterland). Plots were fertilized with calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) at nitrogen equivalents ranging from 0 to 360 kg N ha–1. N2O fluxes were measured throughout the whole year using the closed‐chamber method. In addition, data on temperature, water‐filled pore space and precipitation were collected. N2O emission rates (mg N2O‐N ha–1 h–1) were highest either after fertilizer application or in winter during frost, depending on the experimental site and N dosage. The annual amount of N losses due to N2O emission was dependent on the experimental site and the type and dosage of fertilizer. Disregarding the 360 kg N ha–1 level of the CAN treatments, the N losses in this experiment were less than 1.5 kg N2O‐N ha–1 yr–1. At low fertilizer dosage there was no reliable correlation between the amount of N that was applied and the amount of N2O that was emitted. However, with high fertilizer levels the N2O emissions increased gradually. Finally, N2O emissions were more influenced by the amount of CAN than by the site.
Effect of Striga hermonthica on the Growth Characteristics of Sorghum Intercropped with Groundnut Varieties
Authors: Tenebe V. A. , Kamara H. M.
Published: March 2003

Field experiments were conducted in 1996 and 1997 on a Striga‐infested field to determine the effect of Striga on the growth characteristics of sorghum intercropped with groundnut varieties (RMP‐12, Yarkasa and Ex‐Dakar). The performance of the intercropped sorghum was significantly better than that of the monoculture in terms of plant height, dry matter, leaf number and leaf area index. Intercropping of sorghum with RMP‐12 resulted in a significant suppression of Striga compared to other groundnut varieties. The dry matter yield of sorghum intercropped with groundnut was significantly higher than that of the sorghum monocrop. The dry matter yield resulting from intercropping of sorghum with the RMP‐12 groundnut variety was significantly higher than that of sorghum intercropped with all other varieties of groundnut.
Association between Yield and Carbon Isotope Discrimination Value in Different Organs of Durum Wheat Under Drought
Authors: Merah O. , Deléens E. , Teulat B. , Monneveux P.
Published: March 2003

Carbon isotope discrimination (Δ) has been proposed as a selection criterion for transpiration efficiency and grain yield in drought‐prone environments for several C3 species, including cereals. Δ analysis, however, has mainly been concerned with grain or culm tissues and little work has been devoted to other organs. The objective of this study was to describe Δ variation in different organs and to examine the relationships between Δ and grain yield across environments. Six durum wheat genotypes with contrasted grain Δ were cultivated under rainfed conditions during three successive years at Montpellier (South of France). Δ was measured on flag leaf, stalk, awns, chaff and rachis sampled at anthesis and maturity, and on mature grain. Higher genotypic variation and closer correlation with yield were noted for grain Δ compared to other plant parts. The genotype ranking across years was more consistent for grain Δ than for other organs. Consequently, the grain seems the most effective plant part for Δ analysis in durum wheat under Mediterranean conditions. The study of Δ variation in other organs may be useful, however, to evaluate the contribution of those organs to grain filling and final yield according to environmental conditions.
Two‐step versus joint analysis of Von Bertalanffy function
Authors: Varona L. , Moreno C. , Cortés L. A. García , Yagüe G. , Altarriba J.
Published: March 2003

Introduction

Animal growth has been modelled using several mathematical functions (Logistic, Von Bertalanffy, Gompertz, etc.). These functions are described by a reduced number of parameters. In some cases, these parameters are assigned a biological interpretation (adult weight, maturing rate, etc.) and so the breeding goal can be closely related to the change of performance in these parameters, with the objective of altering the shape of the growth curve. In this sense, some studies have been focused on the estimation of (co)variance components of these parameters (B rown et al. 1976; F
itzbugh 1976; D
e N
ise and B
rinks 1985; K
oenen and G
roen 1996).

These studies are based on a two‐step procedure. In the first step, a growth curve is fitted separately to the data of each individual animal, afterwards, a mixed model analysis is applied to obtain (co)variance components. In this second step the estimates of production function parameters from the previous step are taken as records.

Recently, V arona et al. (1997, 1998) have described a Bayesian procedure which allows the particular parameters of any production function to be estimated jointly and the (co)variance components between them. This procedure provides a considerable advantage over Maximun Likelihood approaches to joint analysis (Z
ucker et al. 1995) and makes use of all the available information. The aim of this study is to compare both procedures in a simulation scheme under the assumption of the Von Bertalanffy growth function.
Restriction fragment length polymorphisms in myogenin and myf3 genes and their influence on lean meat content in pigs
Authors: Cieślak By D. , Kapelański W. , Blicharski T. , Pierzcha!a M.
Published: March 2003

A total of 120 pigs from farm I and 109 from farm II were examined for DdeI polymorphism in myf3 and for MspI polymorphism in myogenin genes. Meatness, weight and ratio of ham and loin meat, and loin eye area of animals with different genotypes for myf3 and for myogenin were compared. In myf3 polymorphism pigs A/A from farm I displayed significantly lower values for these characteristics. In farm II there was a reverse tendency. Present results indicate that the DdeI polymorphic region in porcine myf3 gene does not influence functionality of this gene but it may point at another polymorphism located nearby and being of functional importance. Two regions of the porcine myogenin gene were analysed for MspI polymorphism. The region encompassing coding sequences (MYOG1) was polymorphic only in three Pietrain pigs (out of 150 individuals tested) making it useless for assessment of meat productivity in pigs. The 3′ untranslated region was polymorphic and the frequency of 4.2 and 4.9 alleles varied among breeds. The 4.2 variant was predominant in Pietrain pigs. Statistical analysis indicated that meat, ham and loin meat percentages as well as loin eye area were significantly higher in 4.2/4.2 homozygotes. Further study will be undertaken to explain the relations between meat productivity and myf3 and MYOG2 alleles within breed.
Estimation of the genetic correlation between performances at different levels of show jumping competitions in Ireland
Authors: Aldridge By L. I. , Kelleher D. L. , Reilly M. , Brophy P. O.
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this study was to determine the value of performance at both novice (low) and medium levels of show jumping competition for predicting genetic merit for high level performance ability. Show jumping performances, consisting of 258 526 records from 9956 horses in 11 945 national competitions from 1993 to 1998 inclusive were divided into three levels, namely high, medium and low (novice). For the purpose of analysis, performance at each of these levels was regarded as performance in three different traits. The measure of performance used in the genetic evaluation of show jumping horses in Ireland is obtained by ranking all performances in all competitions. The rank is based on the number of faults incurred and the length of time taken to complete each round of competition. The heritability of performance at these three levels and the genetic correlation between levels were used to estimate the predictive value of performances at the lower levels for genetic merit for high level performance. The genetic correlations between these traits and their heritabilities were estimated using reml vce. The genetic correlation between high and low levels was 0.69 (standard error (
se) 0.07), between medium and low 0.97 (
se 0.02) and between medium and high 0.83 (
se 0.05). The heritability of performance at high level was 0.10 (
se 0.01), at medium level 0.08 (
se 0.01) and at low level 0.07 (
se 0.01). These estimates indicate that low (novice) and medium levels can be useful in predicting an animal's potential genetic merit for high level performance.
Effect of capture, immobilization and handling on rectal temperatures of confident and fearful male mink
Authors: Korhonen H. , Hansen S. W. , Malmkvist J. , Houbak B.
Published: March 2003

The objective was to compare response levels of stress‐induced hyperthermia (SIH) in male mink from confident and fearful breeding lines. In experiment 1, effects of capture by trap, immobilization and recapture by trap were compared (n = 20 juvenile males per group). Experiment 2 clarified of how capture by trap and repeated temperature measurements in the tight trap position affected SIH response (n = 9 males, aged 1–2 years per group). In experiment 3, effects of capture by hand and short‐term handling in arms on rectal temperatures were evaluated (n = 11 juvenile males per group). Hyperthermic response in the mink was fast. Furthermore, treatments such as capture, recapture, immobilization in a trap and handling in arms were found to evoke measurable temperature responses. After first capture, no significant differences in SIH response between animals of different temperament lines were noted. However, fearful and confident animals tended to react differently to trap immobilization; the fearful ones by increasing or maintaining their response levels, and confident ones by decreasing them. SIH response to recapture by trap was opposite in the temperament groups; after recapture SIH was significantly higher and lower in fearful and confident animals compared with the first capture, respectively. It is concluded that systematic temperament selection has led to significant differences in stress responses between animals selected for confident and timid behaviour. Higher stress reactivity in animals from a fearful temperament line is the most plausible explanation for the lower breeding success observed in previous studies.
Comparison of estimated breeding values, daughter yield deviations and de‐regressed proofs within a whole genome scan for QTL
Authors: Thomsen H. , Reinsch N. , Xu N. , Looft C. , Grupe S. , Kühn C. , Brockmann G. A. , Schwerin M. , Leyhe‐Horn B. , Hiendleder S. , Erhardt G. , Medjugorac I. , Russ I. , Förster M. , Brenig B. , Reinhardt F. , Reents R. , Blümel J. , Averdunk G. , Kalm E.
Published: March 2003

An important issue in quantitative trait loci (QTL) detection is the use of phenotypic measurement as a dependent variable. Daughter yield deviations (DYDs) as the unit of choice are not available for all traits of interest. The use of de‐regressed proofs (DRPFs) of estimated breeding values (EBVs) is an alternative to using daughter yield deviations. The objective of this study was to examine possible differences between DYDs and DRPFs within the use of QTL detection. The pedigree used was part of the granddaughter design of the German QTL effort. Consisting marker maps for livestock species were derived from all available data of 16 German Holstein paternal half‐sib families with a total of 872 sires. The number of progeny ranged from 19 to 127. A whole genome scan was performed using weighted and unweighted multimarker regression with DYDs, DRPFs and EBVs as dependent variables for the traits milk, fat and protein yields. Results were compared with respect to the number of QTL detected. A similar number of QTL was detected with DRPFs and DYDs. Also, when dependent variables were weighted according to the variance of the trait, a higher number of QTL was detected at the desired level of significance as compared to using unweighted variables.
Genetic relationships among taurine (Bos taurus) and zebu (Bos indicus) populations as revealed by blood groups and blood proteins
Authors: Ceriotti G. , Caroli A. , Rizzi R. , Crimella C.
Published: March 2003

Genetic relationships among nine cattle populations (Bos indicus and Bos taurus) were investigated using blood group antigenic factors and biochemical loci, for a total of 46 polymorphisms. All the analysed breeds live in hot climatesof Africa (Azaouak, Adamawa‐Gudali, Small East African Zebu, Surqo, Brown Atlas, N'Dama, Somba), Central America (Carora), and Italy (Modicana). The study was carried out on 891 unrelated animals. Average heterozygosity ranged between 0.25 and 0.31 and showed higher values in B. indicus (zebu) populations (Azaouak, Adamawa‐Gudali, Small East African Zebu, Surqo). Genetic distances between breeds were used for dendrogram construction. Two main clusters shared B. taurus and B. indicus. Within taurine (B. taurus) breeds, European or European like taurine populations (Modicana, Brown Atlas and Carora) clustered together, most probably because of the consistent presence of Brown Swiss genes in all of them. Another cluster involved the two African taurine populations (N'Dama and Somba). Multivariate analyses (Principal Component Analysis, Correspondence Analysis) of the allelic frequencies confirmed the breed clustering obtained. Overall relationships among breeds reflected remarkable genetic affinity between some of them.
Temperature gradients between the jugular vein blood and rectum in anaesthetized, intubated pigs
Authors: Einer‐Jensen N. , Hunter R. H. F. , Bo gh I. B. , Greve T.
Published: March 2003

Introduction  A current focus in the Reproduction Department at the Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University (KVL) is on the relevance of pre‐ovulatory temperature gradients to procedures of in vitro oocyte maturation, fertilization, and early embryonic development. More specifically, there is a desire to establish appropriate in vitro culture temperatures for resumption of meiosis in oocyte–cumulus complexes aspirated from Graafian follicles and the subsequent oocyte–sperm suspension microdrops that are a feature of most in vitro fertilization systems. The overall objective would be to generate a high proportion of viable embryos capable of developing into a viable foetus after transplantation into a suitable recipient (foster mother).

Core temperature may be defined as ‘the body’s temperature in deep structures such as the liver or heart, as opposed to the peripheral areas such as the mouth or axilla’ (C layton 1993). The core temperature is not an easy concept, as it may vary depending on the organ and type of measurement chosen. The rectal temperature is commonly used. Although it is not a ‘deep’ temperature, it is probably not very different from ‘core temperature’. Temperature gradients between different tissue compartments of the mammalian ovary have been reported several times during the last 25 years (e.g. B
enoit et al. 1976; G
rinsted et al. 1980; G
rinsted et al. 1985). In a study on mature domestic pigs, instantaneous infrared sensing of ovarian tissue was used to reveal the surface temperature during mid‐ventral laparatomy. The ovaries were always cooler than deep rectal temperatures, and large follicles were always cooler (1.7 ± 0.4° C) than adjacent stroma (H
unter et al. 1997).

In an extension of these studies in domestic pigs, simultaneous measurements of jugular vein temperatures and those at a deep rectal site have also been collected. This study was conducted to investigate whether the jugular vein temperature could be taken as representative of core temperature.
Estimates of genetic parameters for triacylglycerol fatty acids in beef castle at weaning and slaughter
Authors: Malau‐Aduli A. E. O. , Edriss M. A. , Siebert B. D. , Bottema C. D. K. , Deland M. P. B. , Pitchford W. S.
Published: March 2003

Adipose tissues from the 12th–13th rib interface were sampled at weaning (324 cattle) and slaughter (310 cattle). The animals were progeny from Hereford dams sired by Angus, Belgian Blue, Hereford, Jersey, Limousin, South Devon and Wagyu. Fatty acid composition of the triacylglycerol fraction at both stages was measured by gas‐liquid chromatography. Estimates of heritability and genetic and phenotypic correlations at weaning and slaughter were computed by restricted maximum likelihood using a sire model in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Results indicated that generally, there were strong, positive genetic correlations between fatty acids at weaning and slaughter (as high as 0.98). Phenotypic correlations were however, low and poor (0.04–0.44). Heritability (h2) estimates at weaning were low to moderate, ranging from 0–0.31. However, at slaughter, h2 estimates were generally higher than at weaning: Stearate, oleate and total monounsaturates had h2 estimates of 0.43, 0.37 and 0.40, respectively. Other carcass traits such as marbling score and melting point of fat had h2 estimates of 0.20 and 0.52, respectively. Significant breed, sex and location differences in fatty acid composition were also observed at weaning and slaughter.