bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evolutionary potential of developmental instability
Authors: Van Dongen  , Lens
Published: March 2003

Whether or not developmental instability (DI) has evolutionary potential is subject to much debate. Generally, studies fail to detect significant heritability for fluctuating asymmetry (FA), a trait assumed to reflect DI. In addition, between-trait correlations in FA are low, suggesting that DI is trait- rather than individual-specific. Among the various attempts to explain these patterns, the overall weak correlation between FA and DI at the individual level has received most attention. Presently, the concept of hypothetical repeatability (R) of individual FA allows us to correct for this weak relationship, transforming patterns of FA into unbiased patterns of DI. By applying R to data presented in the literature, we show that heritability of DI remains lower than predicted but between-trait correlations in DI substantially increase after transformation. We further provide evidence that DI changes from a trait- to an individual-specific property with higher values of R. As increasing hypothetical repeatability might co-occur with increased environmental or genetic stress, we discuss the potential implications of our results for the study of evolution of stress resistance. From this we conclude that there is an urgent need for studies that compare the evolutionary potential of developmental instability under a variety of stress conditions.
A simple model of the relationship between asymmetry and developmental stability
Authors: Houle
Published: March 2003

The relationship between developmental stability and morphological asymmetry is derived under the standard view that structures on each side of an individual develop independently and are normally distributed. I use developmental variance of sizes of parts, VD, as the converse of developmental stability, and assume that VD follows a gamma distribution. Repeatability of asymmetry, a measure of how informative asymmetry is about VD, is quite insensitive to the variance in VD, for example only reaching 20% when the coefficient of variation of VD is 100%. The coefficient of variation of asymmetry, CVFA, also increases very slowly with increasing population variation in VD. CVFA values from empirical data are sometimes over 100%, implying that developmental stability is sometimes more variable than any previously studied type of trait. This result suggests that alternatives to this model may be needed.
Direct and correlated responses to selection on iridoid glycosides in Plantago lanceolata L.
Authors: Marak H. B. , Biere A. , Van Damme J. M. M.
Published: March 2003

Plantago lanceolata L. (ribwort plantain) produces two costly terpenoid secondary plant compounds, the iridoid glycosides aucubin and catalpol. We performed an artificial selection experiment to investigate direct and correlated responses to selection on the constitutive level of iridoid glycosides in the leaves for four generations. Estimated realized heritabilities (±SE) were 0.23 ± 0.07 and 0.23 ± 0.04 for upward and downward selection, respectively. The response to upward selection was caused by selection for a developmental pattern characterized by the production of fewer leaves that on average contain more iridoids, and by selection for a development-independent increase in the level of these compounds. Significant correlated responses were observed for plant growth form. Upward selection resulted in plants with larger sized, but fewer leaves, fewer side rosettes, and fewer spikes, corresponding to a previously distinguished ‘hayfield’ ecotype, whereas downward selection produced the opposite pattern, corresponding to a ‘pasture’ ecotype. This indicates that the level of iridoid glycosides is genetically correlated with morphological traits in P. lanceolata, and is part of the complex of genetically correlated traits underlying the two ecotypes. The genetic association between iridoid level and growth forms suggests that there may be constraints to the simultaneous evolution of resistance to generalist insects (by iridoid glycosides) and to larger grazers (by a high production rate of prostrate leaves and inflorescences) in open grazed habitats where the ‘pasture’ ecotype is found.
Hatching fraction and timing of resting stage production in seasonal environments: effects of density dependence and uncertain season length
Authors: Spencer M. , Colegrave N. , Schwartz S. S.
Published: March 2003

Many organisms survive unfavourable seasons as resting stages, some of which hatch each favourable season. Hatching fraction and timing of resting stage production are important life history variables. We model life cycles of freshwater invertebrates in temporary pools, with various combinations of uncertain season length and density-dependent fecundity. In deterministic density-independent conditions, resting stage production begins suddenly. With uncertain season length and density independence, resting stage production begins earlier and gradually. A high energetic cost of resting stages favours later resting stage production and a lower hatching fraction. Deterministic environments with density dependence allow sets of coexisting strategies, dominated by pairs, each switching suddenly to resting stage production on a different date, usually earlier than without density dependence. Uncertain season length and density dependence allow a single evolutionarily stable strategy, around which we observe many mixed strategies with negatively associated yield (resting stages per initial active stage) and optimal hatching fraction.
Virulence and age at reproduction: new insights into host–parasite coevolution
Authors: Restif O. , Hochberg M. E. , Koella J. C.
Published: March 2003

We consider an explicit mutation–selection process to investigate the dynamics underlying the coevolution of parasite’s virulence and host’s prereproductive life span in a system with discrete generations. Conforming with earlier models, our model predicts that virulence generally increases with natural mortality of the host, and that a moderate increase in virulence selects for lower ages at reproduction. However, the epidemiological feedback in our model also gives rise to unusual and unexpected patterns. In particular, if virulence is sufficiently high the model can lead to a bifurcation pattern, where two strategies coexist in the host population. The first is to develop rapidly to reproduce before being infected. Individuals following this strategy suffer, however, from reduced fecundity. The second strategy is to develop much more slowly. Because of the high virulence, the effective period of transmission is short, so that a few slowly developing individuals escape infection. These individuals, although choosing a risky strategy, benefit from high fecundity.
Variation in the rate of convergent evolution: adaptation to a laboratory environment in Drosophila subobscura
Authors: Matos M. , Avelar T. , Rose M. R.
Published: March 2003

Adaptation to novel environments is a central issue in evolutionary biology. One important question is the prevalence of convergence when different populations adapt to the same or similar environments. We investigated this by comparing two studies, 6 years apart, of laboratory adaptation of populations of Drosophila subobscura founded from the same natural location. In both studies several life-history traits were periodically assayed for the first 14 generations of laboratory adaptation, as well as later generations, and compared with established, laboratory, control populations. The results indicated: (1) a process of convergence for all traits; (2) differences between the two studies in the pattern and rate of convergence; (3) dependence of the evolutionary rates on initial differentiation. The differences between studies might be the result of the differences in the founder populations and/or changes in the lab environment. In either case, the results suggest that microevolution is highly sensitive to genetic and environmental conditions.
Validity of the haemoglobin colour scale in blood donor screening
Authors: Lewis S. M. , Emmanuel J.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives

The haemoglobin colour scale (HCS) has been developed as a simple, reliable and inexpensive clinical device for diagnosing anaemia and estimating its severity when laboratory‐based haemoglobinometry is not available. The purpose of this study was to assess its validity for screening blood donors for anaemia.

Material and Methods

The HCS was tested at five blood transfusion centres on a total of 2801 donors. Blood was obtained by skin puncture as part of the routine procedure at the donor sessions. HCS readings were compared with screening by the copper sulphate method, which was in routine use in the centres, and with haemoglobin (Hb) measurements by means of calibrated HemoCue haemoglobinometers. HCS readings were considered as normal when the readings were ≥ 12 g/dl.

Results

Analysis of the paired results showed that the HCS had an accuracy of 97·5% in distinguishing subjects with normal Hb from those below the acceptable limit, when checked against the HemoCue. The HCS was more reliable than the copper‐sulphate specific‐gravity method, yielding 3·7% false readings compared with 6·1% false readings, respectively. When discrimination was set at 12 g/dl with the HemoCue, the HCS gave an incorrect reading in 2·4% of donors. The majority of these false results (44 donors; 1·58%) were caused by the HCS indicating rejection of the donor (i.e. Hb < 12 g/dl) when the correct Hb was higher, whilst in 23 donors (0·82%) the HCS incorrectly indicated a normal Hb; however, in all but four of these donors the correct Hb values were 11·0–11·9 g/dl, and none were below 10 g/dl.

Conclusion

The operators were able to master the HCS technique after a few minutes of practice, and all found the test to be user friendly and easy to read. The HCS is proposed as a replacement for the copper sulphate method for blood transfusion donor selection.
Evaluation of donor arm disinfection techniques
Authors: McDonald C. P. , Lowe P. , Roy A. , Robbins S. , Hartley S. , Harrison J. F. , Slopecki A. , Verlander N. , Barbara J. A. J.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objective

To validate a standardized optimal national procedure for donor arm disinfection.

Materials and Methods

A direct swabbing and plating technique was used to enumerate bacteria present on the arm pre‐ and postdisinfection. Twelve donor arm disinfection techniques were evaluated.

Results

The Medi‐Flex Adapted method, consisting of a two‐stage process with an initial application of isopropyl alcohol followed by tincture of iodine, produced the best arm disinfection. A percentage reduction in bacterial counts of 99·79% (logarithmic reduction of 2·67) was obtained. Postdisinfection, 70% of donors had bacterial counts of zero, and 98% had counts of 10 or less.

Conclusion

The Medi‐Flex disinfection method offers the English National Blood Service a validated, optimal ‘best practice’ disinfection technique and should contribute significantly to the reduction in risk of transmission of bacteria by transfusion.
Direct evidence for the existence of Miltenbergera antigen
Authors: Chen V. , Halverson G. , Wasniowska K. , Lisowska E. , Chen J. , Moulds M. , Reid M. E.
Published: March 2003

The Miltenberger (Mi) subsystem, which originally consisted of four phenotypes, now has 11 phenotypes. The antigens of this subsystem belong to the MNS blood group system. The Mia antigen has been reported to be present on red blood cells with several Miltenberger phenotypes, namely: Mi.I, Mi.II, Mi.III, Mi.IV, Mi.VI and Mi.X. However, the existence of the Mia antigen as a separate entity has been in question and difficult to prove with polyclonal reagents. We report the first monoclonal anti‐Mia (GAMA210), whose epitope is TNDKHKRD or QTNDMHKR, and thereby confirm the existence of the Mia antigen.
Preparation and properties of an alpha‐1‐protease inhibitor concentrate with high specific activity
Authors: Mattes E. , Matthiessen H. P. , Turecek P. L. , Schwarz H. P.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives

Because the current demand for alpha‐1‐protease inhibitor (A1PI) exceeds the available supply, we aimed to develop a process for purification of A1PI from plasma which would achieve the highest possible degree of purity, specific activity and yield.

Materials and Methods

A1PI was purified from Cohn fraction IV‐1,4 using ethanol precipitation and Q‐Sepharose chromatography. Ceramic hydroxyapatite chromatography was used as a final purification step. Two independent virus‐inactivation procedures (chemical and vapour heating) were applied.

Results

The resulting A1PI had an unprecedented high specific activity. In addition, the process led to the discovery of a new isoform of A1PI in isoelectric focusing gels.

Conclusion

The high specific activity of the A1PI preparation achieved with this process should allow a reduction of the A1PI total protein load necessary to achieve clinically relevant effects.
Age of blood in inventory at a large tertiary care hospital
Authors: Owens W. , Tokessy M. , Rock G.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives

This major tertiary care centre transfers over 1000 red cell units monthly. Units are rotated as part of inventory management to ensure minimum wastage. In 1998, the expiry date of AS3 red cells was extended from 35 to 42 days, potentially affecting inventory.

Materials and Methods

The average age of the red cell units in inventory on any given day was evaluated to determine whether the extended expiry date would affect blood availability and to determine the feasibility of using blood at different ages for various purposes. Over a 6‐month duration, 20 days were selected for review: units were categorized according to ABO group and Rh type and then analysed for age within certain categories.

Results

The average age of the blood in inventory was 1 to 2 weeks. The probability of having units less than 1‐week old was highest for Group O and zero for Group B Rh+ and Group AB Rh+. More than 60% of the O Rh− blood was older than 28 days.

Conclusion

The age of units in inventory varies with respect to ABO group, Rh type and weekday. In practice, the stock rarely reaches 42 days of age. Future studies on the effects of age of blood on patient outcome must consider the logistics of supply and the availability of blood of each group. Transfusion of large numbers of units of the same age and of a specific blood group and type may not always be possible.
Human peripheral blood Vα24+ Vβ11+ NKT cells expand following administration of α‐galactosylceramide‐pulsed dendritic cells
Authors: Okai M. , Nieda M. , Tazbirkova A. , Horley D. , Kikuchi A. , Durrant S. , Takahashi T. , Boyd A. , Abraham R. , Yagita H. , Juji T. , Nicol A.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives We have undertaken the first clinical trial involving the administration of α‐GalactosylCeramine (α‐GalCer)‐pulsed dendritic cells (DCs) to human subjects, to determine safety, optimal dose, optimal administration route and immunological effects.

Materials and Methods Subjects (n = 4) with metastatic malignancy received two infusions of α‐GalCer‐pulsed DCs intravenously, and two infusions intradermally. The percentages of Vα24 Vβ11 NKT cells in peripheral blood (PB) were determined by three‐colour flow cytometry and the PB NKT cell numbers were calculated using the total number of PB lymphocytes/ml determined by automated full‐blood counts.

Results No serious treatment related adverse events were observed during the study period. Administration of α‐GalCer‐pulsed DCs in vivo can significantly (P < 0·03) increase PB Vα24+ Vβ11+ NKT cell numbers above pretreatment baseline levels after the transient fall in the NKT numbers within 48 h.

Conclusions Administration of α‐GalCer‐pulsed DCs is well tolerated, modulates PB Vα24+ Vβ11+ NKT cells and may have a role in the therapy of malignancies sensitive to activities of Vα24+ Vβ11+ NKT cells, or for autoimmune diseases.
Large‐scale production and properties of human plasma‐derived activated Factor VII concentrate
Authors: Tomokiyo K. , Yano H. , Imamura M. , Nakano Y. , Nakagaki T. , Ogata Y. , Terano T. , Miyamoto S. , Funatsu A.
Published: March 2003

Background and Objectives An activated Factor VII (FVIIa) concentrate, prepared from human plasma on a large scale, has to date not been available for clinical use for haemophiliacs with antibodies against FVIII and FIX. In the present study, we attempted to establish a large‐scale manufacturing process to obtain plasma‐derived FVIIa concentrate with high recovery and safety, and to characterize its biochemical and biological properties.

Materials and Methods FVII was purified from human cryoprecipitate‐poor plasma, by a combination of anion exchange and immunoaffinity chromatography, using Ca2+‐dependent anti‐FVII monoclonal antibody. To activate FVII, a FVII preparation that was nanofiltered using a Bemberg Microporous Membrane‐15 nm was partially converted to FVIIa by autoactivation on an anion‐exchange resin. The residual FVII in the FVII and FVIIa mixture was completely activated by further incubating the mixture in the presence of Ca2+ for 18 h at 10 °C, without any additional activators. For preparation of the FVIIa concentrate, after dialysis of FVIIa against 20 mm citrate, pH 6·9, containing 13 mm glycine and 240 mm NaCl, the FVIIa preparation was supplemented with 2·5% human albumin (which was first pasteurized at 60 °C for 10 h) and lyophilized in vials. To inactivate viruses contaminating the FVIIa concentrate, the lyophilized product was further heated at 65 °C for 96 h in a water bath.

Results Total recovery of FVII from 15 000 l of plasma was ≈ 40%, and the FVII preparation was fully converted to FVIIa with trace amounts of degraded products (FVIIaβ and FVIIaγ). The specific activity of the FVIIa was ≈ 40 U/µg. Furthermore, virus‐spiking tests demonstrated that immunoaffinity chromatography, nanofiltration and dry‐heating effectively removed and inactivated the spiked viruses in the FVIIa. These results indicated that the FVIIa concentrate had both high specific activity and safety.

Conclusions We established a large‐scale manufacturing process of human plasma‐derived FVIIa concentrate with a high yield, making it possible to provide sufficient FVIIa concentrate for use in haemophiliacs with inhibitory antibodies.
Craniofacial morphology and dental age in children with Silver–Russell syndrome
Authors: Bergman A , Kjellberg H , Dahlgren J
Published: March 2003

Structured Abstract

Authors –
Bergman A, Kjellberg H, Dahlgren J.

Objectives –
This investigation is a part of a multidisciplinary descriptive evaluation of the Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS). The aim of this study was to describe the craniofacial morphology, occlusion and dental age in children with the SRS.

Design –
A descriptive literature‐controlled study.

Setting and Sample Population –
Sixteen children diagnosed as having SRS, 10 boys and six girls, aged 4.4–14.5 years, were referred from different parts of Sweden to the Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Göteborg University.

Experimental Variable –
Facial morphology was measured on lateral and postero‐anterior radiographs. Occlusion, tooth eruption and palatal height were measured on casts, and dental maturity was evaluated on orthopantomograms.

Outcome Measure –
Linear and angular measurements were obtained from lateral radiographs and the ratios of the linear measurements from the postero‐anterior radiographs. The degree of tooth calcification shown on orthopantomograms was taken as a measure of dental maturity. Biometric measurements were taken and the degree of tooth eruption was recorded from the dental casts. The SRS children were compared with reference groups with t‐test and z‐scores.

Results –
Overall, SRS children were found to have smaller linear facial dimensions and deviations in the facial proportions, such as a small retropositioned, and steeply inclined maxilla and mandible, and a proportionally larger anterior facial height in relation to the posterior facial height. In 40% of them a smaller facial height or length on one side (facial asymmetry) was correlated to the smaller side of the body. The frequency of malocclusions was higher, and the palatal height showed a tendency towards an increase. Dental maturity was within normal limits, while the time of tooth eruption was slightly delayed.

Conclusions –
The deviating facial morphology described above is a part of the syndrome, which is characterized by short stature, growth hormone deficiency and asymmetries of the body. The higher percentage of malocclusions in the SRS children might lead to a greater need of orthodontic treatment.
Die Porphyrien: Was Dermatologen wissen sollten.
Authors: Gutiérrez P. Poblete , Wiederholt T. , Frank J.
Published: March 2003

Zusammenfassung: Bei den Porphyrien handelt es sich um eine aufgrund ihres Facettenreichtums faszinierende Gruppe metabolischer Erkrankungen, die aus Funktionsstörungen der  Häm‐Biosynthese resultieren, wobei der jeweils vorherrschende Enzymdefekt entweder hereditärer Genese oder akquiriert sein kann. Klinisch im Vordergrund stehen zum einen eine Vielzahl von kutanen Symptomen, die allesamt auf einer gesteigerten Photosensitivität beruhen und mit der Entwicklung von Effloreszenzen an den lichtexponierten Arealen der Haut einhergehen. Zum anderen weisen die Patienten in vielen Fällen akute neurologische Attacken auf, die mit krampfartigen, diffusen Bauchschmerzen, Para‐ und Tetraplegie, Lähmung der Atemhilfsmuskulatur, Koma und Tod der Patienten einhergehen können. Anhand der im Vordergrund stehenden Symptome können die Porphyrien einerseits in akute und nicht‐akute Formen eingeteilt werden, aus allgemeiner klinischer Sicht heutzutage sicherlich die sinnvollste Klassifikation. Da sich die Mehrzahl der Porphyrie‐Formen jedoch mit Hautveränderungen manifestiert, kann eine klinische Unterteilung unter dermatologischen Gesichtspunkten auch in kutane und nicht‐kutane Formen vorgenommen werden. Die Diagnose dieser Erkrankungen ist komplex, da die Symptome oftmals unspezifisch sind und sich darüber hinaus bei den einzelnen Porphyrie‐Formen auch Überschneidungen der biochemischen Laborwerte finden. Nachfolgend sollen die einzelnen Porphyrie‐Formen „hautnah” betrachtet und das derzeit übliche diagnostische und therapeutische Vorgehen erörtert werden.
Kosmetika und Haarausfall
Authors: Gummer C. L.
Published: March 2003

Zusammenfassung: Viele Verbraucher machen bei Haarausfall verschiedene kosmetische Haarpflegeprodukte dafür verantwortlich. Doch wird weltweit von einem Großteil der Menschen eine Vielfalt kosmetischer Produkte regelmäßig, oft sogar täglich, angewendet, ohne irgendwelche unerwünschten Kurzzeit‐ oder Langzeitwirkungen. So kann man, ausgehend von einer Fülle von Daten aus kommerziellen Archiven und der großen Menge der Verbraucher, letztlich schließen, dass kosmetische Haarpflegeprodukte bei sachgemäßer Anwendung keinen Haarausfall verursachen können.
Tiermodelle der Alopecia areata
Authors: McElwee K. J. , Hoffmann R.
Published: March 2003

Zusammenfassung: Die Entwicklung der AA unterliegt nach unserem derzeitigen Wissen der Nagermodelle her einer generellen genetischen Anfälligkeit, in welcher hauptverantwortliche Gene durch untergeordnete, die Erkrankungsschwere modifizierende Gene unterstützt werden. Das aktuelle Auftreten der AA, ihre Dauer, Ausdehnung und die Persistenz wird in einzelnen Nagern durch epigenetische Faktoren bestimmt. Die AA der Nager scheint grundsätzlich aber nicht ausschließlich TH1 vermittelt zu sein. Das Auftreten der Erkrankung ist von verschiedenen Faktoren, insbesondere von der Unterbrechung des immunen Privilegs der Haarfollikel in der anagenen Phase, sowie von einer Antigenpräsentation mit Kostimulation der Lymphozyten, dem Vorhandensein von autoreaktiven Lymphozyten und dem Fehlen von funktionellen, das Immunsystem regulierenden Zellen abhängig.Nagetiere wurden schon erfolgreich zur Untersuchung von verschiedenen Behandlungen der AA und zur Entwicklung von Therapien eingesetzt. Durch die Versuche an Nagetiermodellen gelang es, ein besseres Verständnis für den Erkrankungsmechanismus der AA zu bekommen und verbesserte und spezifischere Behandlungsmethoden zu definieren.
Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, India Effect of Different Levels of Drought during the Formative Phase on Growth Parameters and its Relationship with Dry Matter Accumulation in Sugarcane
Authors: Ramesh P.
Published: March 2003

A field experiment was conducted at Coimbatore (11° N, 77° E), India during the 1996 and 1997 crop seasons, using four commercial sugarcane varieties (Co 8021, Co 419, Co 8208 and Co 6304), to study the effect of three levels of drought (severe, moderate and control) during the formative phase (60–150 days after planting) on growth determinants and their relationship with dry matter accumulation. The reduction in dry matter content was 60.8, 52.4 and 25.9 % in severe drought and 46.3, 36.3 and 15.1 % in moderate drought at the ends of the formative, grand growth and maturity phases, respectively. High net assimilation rate, optimum leaf area index, high crop growth rate and an early shift in dry matter allocation to the stem were found to be desirable for higher biomass production, especially under water‐limited drought conditions. Measurement of growth parameters such as net assimilation rate, relative growth rate, leaf area index and leaf area duration under drought and crop growth rate and stalk elongation rate under normal irrigated conditions, particularly during the formative phase, might help to predict total dry matter at harvest. Leaf area ratio was not found to correlate with total dry matter at harvest in either drought or normal irrigated conditions.
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilization and Foliar Application of Plant Growth Retardants and Zinc on Cottonseed, Protein and Oil Yields and Oil Properties of Cotton
Authors: Sawan Z. M. , Hafez S. A. , Basyony A. E.
Published: March 2003

Field experiments were conducted in two successive seasons at the Agricultural Research Centre, Giza, Egypt (on a clay loam soil), to determine the effects of N fertilization (added at rates of 107 and 161 kg N ha–1) and foliar application of plant growth retardants (Pix, Cycocel and Alar; each applied once at 300 p.p.m., 75 days after planting) and zinc (applied at 0.0 and 50 p.p.m., two times, 80 and 95 days after planting) on cottonseed, protein and oil yields and oil properties of the Egyptian cotton cultivar Giza 75. The higher N rate, as well as the application of all growth retardants and zinc, resulted in an increase in cottonseed yield ha–1, seed index, seed protein content, oil and protein yields ha–1, seed oil refractive index, unsaponifiable matter and total unsaturated fatty acid content (oleic and linoleic). However, those treatments decreased the oil acid value, saponification value, and total saturated fatty acid content. The seed oil content tended to decrease when the high N rate was applied, but tended to increase with the application of all growth retardants and zinc. There were some differences between Pix, Cycocel and Alar regarding their effects on the studied characters. The highest increase in seed yield ha–1, seed index, and oil and protein yields ha–1 was found with Pix, followed by Cycocel. The Cycocel treatment gave the lowest total saturated fatty acid oil content, followed by Alar.
Estimates of genetic and phenotypic covariance functions for postweaning growth and mature weight of beef cows
Authors: Meyer By K.
Published: March 2003

Annual weights of cows from 19 to 119 months of age in two herds were analysed fitting a random regression model, regressing on orthogonal polynomials of age in months. Estimates of covariances between random regression coefficients were obtained by restricted maximum likelihood, and the resulting estimates of covariance functions were used to construct covariance matrices for all ages in the data. Analyses were carried out fitting regression coefficients corresponding to overall animal effects only and fitting regressions for animals’ additive genetic and permanent, environmental effects. Different definitions of fixed effects subclasses were examined. Models were compared using likelihood ratio tests and estimated standard deviations for the ages in the data. Cubic regressions were sufficient to model both population trajectories and individual growth curves. Random regression coefficients were highly correlated, so that estimation forcing their covariance matrices to have reduced rank (2 or 3) did not reduce likelihoods significantly, allowing parsimonious modelling. Results showed that records were clearly not repeated measurements of a single trait with constant variances. As cows grew up to about 5 years of age, variances. As cows grew up to about 5 years of age, variances increased. Estimates of genetic correlations between 3‐year‐old and older cows were close to unity in one herd but more erratic in the other. For both herds, genetic correlations between weights on 2‐year‐old cows and older animals were clearly less than unity.
A new variant in exon VII of bovine β‐casein gene (CSN2) and its distribution among European cattle breeds
Authors: JANN O. , CERIOTTI G. , CAROLI A. , ERHARDT G.
Published: March 2003

An undescribed bovine CSN2 variant was detected and characterized. It is based on a mutation in exon VII, which leads to a substitution of the aminoacid 93 (Met→Leu) in comparison to allele CSN*A2. The new allele was named CSN2*I. A PCR‐SSCP based DNA‐test for the differentiation of the common alleles A1, A2, A3, B, C, and of the new variant I was developed. Genotyping of 318 unrelated animals belonging to seven European breeds (Italian Holstein Friesian, Italian Red Pied, Piemontese, Angler, Maremmana, Polish Red and White, Polish Red) showed a wide distribution of the new variant with a frequency up to 0.14 in Italian Red Pied.
Body conditions scores of dairy cattle in organic farms
Authors: Trachsel P. , Busato A. , Blum J. W.
Published: March 2003

Dairy cows on organic farms may not be fed adequately because provision of concentrates (and thus energy and protein), minerals and vitamins is limited. The hypothesis was therefore tested that the nutritional status of dairy cows in organic dairy production is insufficient. The nutritional status was characterized by determination of body conditions scores (BCS) in 152 farms, which were a stratified sample of Swiss organic farms. In summer (July – September 1997) and the ensuing winter (January – March 1998) the BCS was evaluated in 1687 and 1867 dairy cows, respectively. Mean number of cows per farm was 12.3, 13.7% of farms were located in mountain zones and 26% in lowlands, and 26% of farms kept part or all of their herds on alpine pastures during summer. Average 305‐day milk yield was 5467 kg per lactation. Depending on breed, this was 5–12% less than the contemporary average annual milk yield of cows registered in herd books. Average milk protein and fat contents were lower than that of cows kept on conventional farms. Mean milk urea concentration was 3.2 mmol/l in summer and only 2.0 mmol/l in winter, indicating insufficient protein supply in winter. BCS were between 3.0 and 3.75 for 69% of the cows, and < 2 and > 4 for 3 and 4% of cows, respectively. Effects on BCS of cow characteristics (days post‐partum, age and breed) and effects of farm characteristics with emphasis on feeding procedures were assessed with linear models. Days post‐partum, breed and several farm level variables had a significant influence on BCS. In conclusion, most dairy cows on organic farms had opitimal BCS and thus an adequate nutritional status. However nutritional energy and/or protein deficits were apparent during the winter feeding period
Calculation of gross energy in pet foods: new data on heat combustion and fibre analysis in a selection of foods for dogs and cats
Authors: Kienzle E. , Schrag I. , Butterwick R. , Opitz B.
Published: March 2003

Seven pectin samples, six galactomannan sources, five carrageen samples, four alginate samples, one sample of gum traganth, agar agar and gum arabicum, two xanthan samples, two inulin samples and a galacto oligosaccharide, 22 cellulose samples, six lignin samples, four starch samples, nine protein samples, six isolated fats, three meat samples, two lung samples, two samples of skimmed milk powder, 12 prepared complete dry dog foods, 21 moist dog foods, nine dry and 25 moist cat foods and 10 faecal samples were analysed for heat combustion (adiabatic bomb calorimetry), crude nutrients, acid detergent fibre (ADF), and acid detergent lignin (ADL). Some of the non‐starch polysaccharides which gave low levels of crude fibre and ADF were also analysed for total, insoluble and soluble fibre. The heat combustion of cellulose ranged between 17.0 and 17.5 kJ/g organic matter (OM). The variation was somewhat larger for other non‐starch polysaccharides (pectin, galactomannan sources, carageen, alginate, gums, xanthan, inulin) where heat combustion ranged between 14.0 and 18.2 kJ/g OM. The heat combustion of lignin averaged 25.5 kJ/g OM with considerable variation (17.0–29.2 kJ/g OM). Starch had a narrow range (17.2–17.3 kJ/g OM). Heat combustion of protein samples varied between 22.0 and 24.6 kJ/g, and of fat samples varied between 38.0 and 39.6 kJ/g OM. When cellulose was analysed for crude fibre only between 62 and 85% OM was detected. ADF analyses of cellulose ranged between 75 and 93% OM. The crude fibre content of all other non‐starch polysaccharides did not exceed 13% OM, with the exception of pectins (ADF 0.7–37% OM) and alginates (ADF 39–66% OM), the ADF content was also below 13% in these samples. In contrast the total fibre content was above 80% OM in all non‐starch noncellulose polysaccharides and the percentage of soluble fibre was high (25–93% OM). Unprocessed lignin gave high readings for crude fibre (39–61% OM) and ADF (96–99% OM), while processed lignin had low crude fibre content (< 1% OM) and low ADF content (< 32%). ADL determined unprocessed lignin (78–91% OM), but again processed lignin was analysed incompletely (< 29%). Pectin and alginate gave false positive ADL readings of up to 31% OM, while all other non‐starch polysaccharides were not determined by ADL. When gross energy was calculated with the factors (kJ/g) 24 for protein, 38 for fat and 17 for all carbohydrate, including fibre, there was a good correlation between calculated gross energy and heat combustion in 67 pet foods as well as in meat, lung and skimmed milk powder. In contrast to this the same factors underestimated heat combustion of faeces by around 8%.
Influence of a conjugated linoleic acid mixture on growth, organ weights, carcass traits and meat quality in growing pigs
Authors: TISCHENDORF F. , SCHÖNE F. , KIRCHHEIM U. , JAHREIS G.
Published: March 2003

Grain soybean meal diets, either with 2% of a conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) preparation or with 2% rapeseed oil (control), were tested in 2 × 40 pigs, Pietrain × (Landrace × Large White), each group with 20 female in the live weight range 23.5–117.0 kg and 20 male‐castrated pigs in the live weight range 23.5–110.6 kg. The CLA‐content of the preparation amounted to 54.0% cis/trans + trans/cis, 8.7% cis/cis and 32.7% trans/trans isomers. Daily weight gain, feed intake and feed : gain ratio were not influenced by the diets tested. The carcass lean increased significantly from 57.2% of the control group to 58.7% in the CLA group (p < 0.05). The male‐castrated showed a stronger CLA effect than the female pigs – not only was the carcass lean significantly increased by 2%, but backfat thickness was significantly decreased by 2.8 mm, i.e. minus 11% (as compared with barrows of the control). The meat of CLA‐fed pigs had a higher conductivity. A CLA effect on further meat quality characteristics (pH 45 min post‐mortem, impedance, colour criteria, intramuscular fat, drip loss, frying loss, shear force, sensory attributes) could not be detected. There were some significant correlations between the meat quality attributes.
Factors affecting ascorbic acid (AsA) biosynthesis in chickens. II. Effect of dietary AsA and strain of chicken
Authors: Hooper C. L. , Maurice D. V. , Lightsey S. F. , Toler J. E.
Published: March 2003

The present study examined the effect of supplemental ascorbic acid (AsA) and ascertained if genotype is a determinant of biosynthesis and the response of strains to dietary AsA. Slow‐ (Ottawa Meat Control; OMC) and fast‐growing (Peterson Enhanced × Hubbard; PEH) chicks were fed 1000 mg/kg AsA from 1 to 10 weeks of age. The activity of l‐gulonolactone oxidase (GLO) was used to measure biosynthesis and estimated synthetic capacity (ESC) computed. Body weight was not affected by diets and relative kidney weight decreased with age. In 1 week, dietary AsA increased plasma AsA and inhibited GLO activity with a greater reduction in OMC birds. At 10 weeks, GLO activity was depressed almost uniformly in both strains. Strain by age and diet by age interactions were detected for GLO activity and ESC with significantly greater decline in PEH birds and birds fed supplemental AsA. The results demonstrated that dietary AsA inhibited biosynthesis in meat type chickens and the response at 10 weeks was not influenced by growth rate; and the age dependent decline in biosynthesis was more pronounced in the commercial PEH birds. The result suggests that such strains may be compromised in some situations. Research using multiple dietary levels of AsA, commercial strains, and defined stressors is warranted.
Distribution of infestation by lentil gall midge Contarinia lentis (Dipt., Cecidomyiidae) in lentil fields: statistical model
Authors: Kolesik P.
Published: March 2003

The horizontal distribution of infestation by Contarinia lentis in lentil fields, not subjected to chemical control was recorded and analysed in Slovak Republic during outbreaks of this pest in 1986–89. Infestation level was defined as the percentage of galls form the total number of galls, pods, and flowers. The highest level of infestation were found along the edges and the lowest levels in the centres of fields. The distribution of the infestation between the edge and the centre has been described for 18 fields using a nonlinear function containing two parameters. The first parameter represents the infestation level at the edge. The second parameter represents the rate of decreas of infestation from the edge towards the centre of the field. The relationship between the first parameter and the distance to the adult midge emerge site and the relationship between second parameter and the mean velocity of winds caryring females from the emergence site is described using exponential functions. The results indicate that (1) the longer the distance to the midge emergence site, the lower the infestation at the edge; and (2) the gretaer the wind velocity, the weaker the decrese in infestation from the edge towards the centre of a field.
Inferences on pod wall and seed defences against the brown cowpea coreid bug, Clavigralla tomentosicollis Stäl. (Hem., Coreidae) in wild and cultivated Vigna species
Authors: Jackai  , Nokoe  , Tayo  , Koona
Published: March 2003

Studies were conducted in the laboratory to investigate the different components of the resistance of Vigna vexillata A. Richards, TVnu 72, and several cultivars of cultivated Vigna spp. to infestation and damage by the brown cowpea coreid, Clavigralla tomentosicollis Stäl. The main objective was to determine the different roles of the pod wall and seeds, and the relationship between seed size, number, and damage by this insect. Results showed that both the pod wall and seed clearly contribute different components to the resistance of TVnu 72 to C. tomentosicollis. Analysis of the results suggests that the seed defences and the pod wall pericarp may be more important than are trichomes in this resistance. Seed number was found to influence the extent of damage in a more predictable manner than seed size. However, because both of these traits are generally inversely related and mutually exclusive, their individual effects cannot be completely separated. The implications of these traits in a breeding programme targeted at a specific consumer group are discussed.
Characterization and toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis isolates from warehouses to Spodoptera exigua (Lep., Noctuidae)
Authors: Hongyu Zhang , Xiaohui Zeng , Ziniu Yu , Wangxi Deng
Published: March 2003

Bacillus thuringiensis was isolated from 122 of 413 samples obtained from warehouses. Eighty‐seven (71.31%) of these B. thuringiensis isolates were toxic to Spodoptera exigua, causing more than 60% mortality. Twenty‐seven isolates were highly toxic to S. exigua, causing more than 95% mortality. Isolates 133, 47 and 58, which belonged to serotype H7, H4, H4, respectively, were more active than the other isolates and their 50% lethality concentration (LC50) values were 17.93, 14.78 and 15.55 μg/ml, respectively. The isolate 133, 47 and 58 were analysed by sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that they contained ~135 and 65 kDa crystal proteins, that were similar with reference strain HD‐1. Isolate 133 contained the cryIA(a), cryIA(b), cryIA(c), cryIE and cryII genes whereas both isolate 47 and 58 contained the cryIA(b), cryIA(c), cryIE and cryII genes; but they did not contain cryIII gene.
Effect of pesticide mixtures on the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis A.H. (Acarina, Phytoseiidae) in the laboratory
Authors: Blümel  , Gross
Published: March 2003

The acaricide hexythiazox (Acorit® SC, 100 g a.i.l–1), the fungicide triadimefon (Bayleton spezial® WG, 52 g a.i.kg–1) and the insecticide heptenophos (Hostaquick® EC, 550 g a.i.l–1), were tested in the laboratory for their side‐effects on the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis A.H. The pesticides were either applied separately at a range of concentrations or in admixture to detached bean leaves using a Potter Tower to deposit 2 mg spray solution per cm2. No significant differences in the mean mortality rate of the phytoseiid or in the mean reproduction per female was found between the different treatments. Total effect values ranged from 5.4 to 38.7% after separate application of the test products and from 8.9 to 25.5% after treatment with the various pesticide mixtures.
Assessment of host plant resistance in Oryza sativa to the African rice gall midge, Orseolia oryzivora Harris and Gagné (Dipt., Cecidomyiidae), with a description of a new method for screening under artificial infestation
Authors: Williams C. T. , Ukwungwu M. N. , Singh B. N. , Okhidievbie O.
Published: March 2003

A new method is described for screening rice germplasm for resistance to the African rice gall midge (AfRGM), Orseolia oryzivora, year‐round under conditions similar to a severe natural outbreak, using an AfRGM culture to start infestation in a tunnel screenhouse over an irrigated rice field. During 1996 and 1997, 907 test entries of Oryza sativa were screened. Eighteen entries, 17 of which were traditional African lines, had infestation levels at least 50% below those on the partially resistant check variety NHTA 8 at 63–70 days after transplanting, though none showed very strong resistance. When traditional African lines and improved lines were screened together, the latter were on average markedly more susceptible. A field trial using caged plots indicated that even under no‐choice conditions the varieties NHTA 8 and Eguazankpa maintained their partial resistance relative to the susceptible variety ITA 306. A comparison of the new screenhouse screening method with one using seedlings in insect cages suggested that the latter was less suitable for detecting partial resistance. An experiment in which NHTA 8 and ITA 306 were infested with one to four neonate AfRGM larvae per seedling showed that the difference in resistance between these varieties decreased with increasing infestation pressure. The potential role of partial resistance in the management of AfRGM, and methods for detecting it, are discussed.
Developmental changes caused by metyrapone and azadirachtin in Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd.) (Lep., Noctuidae) and Galleria mellonella (L.) (Lep., Pyralidae)
Authors: Gelbič I. , Němec V.
Published: March 2003

Larvae of Spodoptera littoralis and Galleria mellonella reared on standard laboratory food were used in experiments with metyrapone and azadirachtin. Metyrapone in S. littoralis caused high elevation of metabolic rate which resulted in a significant increase of body‐mass. This phenomenon was associated with precocious transformation to pupal stage. The same results were obtained after application of azadirachtin or neem oil. Restriction of reproduction was also observed in S. littoralis. Both these compounds influenced body pigmentation: the treated larvae was light green or light gray. Synthesis of melanin was inhibited. In Galleria mellonella, the effect was not as prominent.
A survey of aphids and aphid parasitoids in cereal fields in Denmark, and the parasitoids' role in biological control
Authors: Sigsgaard L.
Published: March 2003

In 1996 and 1997 a field survey of the abundance and species composition of cereal aphid primary and secondary parasitoids in spring barley, winter wheat and durum wheat was conducted in Zealand, Denmark. The purpose was to create a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying aphid–parasitoid dynamics in the field. Such an understanding can be used when developing biological control methods in cereals. In both years aphid attacks in cereals began in late June and never exceeded the economic threshold. In 1996 the first aphids were found in wheat on 26 June; in 1997 the first aphids were found on 24 June on both crops. The highest densities reached in 1996 were an average of six aphids per shoot in winter wheat and one aphid per shoot in spring barley. In 1997 the highest densities reached were 11 aphids per shoot in winter wheat and four aphids per shoot in spring barley. The aphid population collapsed by the end of July to early August in 1996, but it collapsed by mid‐July in 1997. The onset and peak of parasitization were delayed in comparison to aphid infestation. Parasitism was 20–60% by the end of the cropping season in spring barley, and 30–80% in winter wheat and durum wheat in 1996. In 1997 parasitism did not exceed 3–11% in barley and was less than 2% in one winter wheat field but more than 40% in the other winter wheat field sampled. In both years most parasitism was due to Aphidiidae (Hymenoptera). The two dominant species were Aphidius ervi Haliday and Aphidius rhopalosiphi De Stefani‐Perez. Hyperparasitism began after primary parasitism and increased progressively during the cropping season. The two years were similar in many respects, including for species composition of aphids and parasitoids. The late start of the aphid infestation may have contributed to the high level of parasitization found in 1996, but in 1997 the aphid infestation period was so short that a parasitoid population did not have time to build up.
Impact of alfalfa/cotton intercropping and management on some aphid predators in China
Authors: Lin R. , Liang H. , Zhang R. , Tian C. , Ma Y.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  A short‐term study was carried out to evaluate the influence of some predators on cotton aphid in Xinhe County of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, where cotton was mainly intercropped with alfalfa. In spring, alfalfa was cut at the size of 20 m × 10 m and some groups of predators were obliged to migrate into cotton fields. Cotton aphid and its predators including spiders and lacewings were surveyed on cotton plants before and after alfalfa‐cutting. The result indicated that the increment of population of cotton aphids was significantly slower in cotton grown in plots which bordered the alfalfa‐cutting areas than in the uncut control areas (CK), while the rate of increase of spiders and lacewings were significantly faster in cotton grown in plots bordering on the cut areas than CK.