bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and utilization of transgenic New World screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax
Authors: HANDLER A. M. , ALLEN M. L. , SKODA S. R.
Published: March 2009

Abstract.  The New World screwworm (NWS), Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), was the first insect to be effectively controlled using the sterile insect technique (SIT). Recent efforts to improve SIT control of this species have centred on the development of genetically transformed strains using the piggyBac transposon vector system. Eight transgenic strains were produced incorporating an enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) marker gene under polyubiquitin regulation that has the potential for use as a genetic marking system for released males. The transgenic strains were genetically and phenotypically characterized, including for life fitness parameters and mating competitiveness. These characteristics were unique for each strain and thus some strains were deemed suitable for incorporation into SIT eradication programmes. The strain with the best attributes is designated ‘CLAY’. Four of the strains, including CLAY, have been successfully cryopreserved so that their original characteristics should be unchanged when further evaluation is required. With the demonstration of efficient germ‐line transformation in NWS, allowing production of fit and competitive transformants, it is now possible to consider further transgenic strain development to improve SIT that are currently being tested in other dipteran species. This includes strains that allow genetic marking with fluorescent proteins, genetic sexing by female lethality, male‐specific fluorescent sorting and male sterility by testis‐specific lethality. The SIT may also be improved upon by new strategies resulting in lethality of offspring of released insects using conditional lethal systems based upon temperature‐dependent or dietary tetracycline regulation of lethal gene expression. Both the creation of new NWS transgenic strains and the ecological safety of their release will be enhanced by new vector systems that allow specific genomic targeting of vector constructs and their subsequent immobilization, ensuring transgene and strain stability.
Complex patterns of genetic variability in populations of the New World screwworm fly revealed by mitochondrial DNA markers
Authors: LYRA M. L. , KLACZKO L. B. , AZEREDO‐ESPIN A. M. L.
Published: March 2009

Abstract Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), the New World screwworm fly, is an important agent of traumatic myiasis, which is endemic in the Neotropical region and which has great economic impact on the development of the livestock industry. International efforts have been aimed at designing programmes to control and eradicate this species from endemic areas. Thorough knowledge of the population genetics of an insect pest is a fundamental component to ensuring the success of a pest management strategy because it enables the determination of an appropriate geographic scale for carrying out effective treatments. This study undertook an analysis of mtDNA polymerase chain reaction‐restricted fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) in 34 populations of C. hominivorax from 10 countries, encompassing almost all the current distribution of the species. Results showed high levels of mitochondrial DNA variability (π= 2.9%) and a complex pattern of population genetic structure for this species. Significant population structure (>st= 0.5234) and low variability were found in Caribbean populations, suggesting that, in general, islands constitute independent evolutionary entities connected by restricted gene flow. By contrast, high variability and low, but significant, differentiation was found among mainland populations (>st= 0.0483), which could not be attributed to geographic distance. Several processes may be acting to maintain the observed patterns, with different implications for establishing control programmes.
Population genetics of New World screwworm from the Caribbean: insights from microsatellite data
Authors: TORRES T. T. , AZEREDO‐ESPIN A. M. L.
Published: March 2009

AbstractDiseases affecting livestock can have a significant impact on animal productivity and on trade of live animals, meat and other animal products, which, consequently, affects the overall process of economic development. The New World screwworm,Cochliomyia hominivorax(Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), is an important parasitic insect pest in Neotropical regions. This species has been successfully eradicated from North and most of Central America by the sterile insect technique, but continues to affect the development of the livestock sector in most Caribbean economies. Here, we provide some insight into the patterns of genetic variation and structure and gene flow ofC. hominivoraxpopulations from the Caribbean. Analysis of populations from 10 geographical sites in four islands revealed a moderate genetic variability within the populations. Surprisingly, a high population differentiation was found even in intra‐island comparisons between populations. This observation can reflect either highly structured populations resulting from a lack of gene flow or a source–sink dynamic. Our study also suggests that New World screwworm populations can recover very rapidly from population contractions. This is valuable information that should be required prior to any investment in large‐scale efforts aiming at controlling this pest.
Arabidopsis plant homeodomain finger proteins operate downstream of auxin accumulation in specifying the vasculature and primary root meristem
Authors: Thomas Carole L. , Schmidt Dominik , Bayer Emmanuelle M. , Dreos Rene , Maule Andrew J.
Published: March 2009

In Arabidopsis thaliana, auxin is a key regulator of tissue patterning in the developing embryo. We have identified a group of proteins that act downstream of auxin accumulation in auxin‐mediated root and vascular development in the embryo. Combined mutations in OBERON1 (OBE1) and OBERON2 (OBE2) give rise to obe1 obe2 double mutant seedlings that closely phenocopy the monopteros (mp) mutant phenotype, with an absence of roots and defective development of the vasculature. We show that, in contrast to the situation in mp mutants, obe1 obe2 double mutant embryos show auxin maxima at the root pole and in the provascular region, and that the SCFTIR1 pathway, which translates auxin accumulation into transcriptional activation of auxin‐responsive genes, remains intact. Although we focus on the impact of obe mutations on aspects of embryo development, the effect of such mutations on a broad range of auxin‐related gene expression and the tissue expression patterns of OBE genes in seedlings suggest that OBE proteins have a wider role to play in growth and development. We suggest that OBE1 and OBE2 most likely control the transcription of genes required for auxin responses through the action of their PHD finger domains.
Molecular characterization of ThIPK2, an inositol polyphosphate kinase gene homolog from Thellungiella halophila, and its heterologous expression to improve abiotic stress tolerance in Brassica napus
Authors: Zhu Jin‐Qi , Zhang Jian‐Tao , Tang Ren‐Jie , Lv Qun‐Dan , Wang Qiu‐Qing , Yang Lei , Zhang Hong‐Xia
Published: March 2009

Inositol polyphosphate kinases play important roles in diverse cellular processes. In this study, the function of an inositol polyphosphate kinase gene homolog named ThIPK2 from a dicotyledonous halophyte Thellungiella halophila was investigated. The deduced translation product (ThIPK2) shares 85% identity with the Arabidopsis inositol polyphosphate kinase AtIPK2β. Transient expression of ThIPK2‐YFP fusion protein in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) protoplasts indicates that the protein is localized to the nucleus and plasma membrane, with a minor localization to the cytosol. Heterologous expression of ThIPK2 in ipk2Δ (also known as arg82Δ), a yeast mutant strain that lacks inositol polyphosphate multikinase (Ipk2) activity, rescued the mutant's salt‐, osmotic‐ and temperature‐sensitive growth defects. Semi‐quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) revealed ubiquitous expression of ThIPK2 in various tissues, including roots, rosette leaves, cauline leaves, stem, flowers and siliques, and shoot ThIPK2 transcript was strongly induced by NaCl or mannitol in T. halophila as exhibited by real‐time PCR analysis. Transgenic expression of ThIPK2 in Brassica napus led to significantly improved salt‐, dehydration‐ and oxidative stress resistance. Furthermore, the transcripts of various stress responsive marker genes increased in ThIPK2 transgenic plants under salt stress condition. These results suggest that ThIPK2 is involved in plant stress responses, and for the first time demonstrate that ThIPK2 could be a useful candidate gene for improving drought and salt tolerance in important crop plants by genetic transformation.
Virus Resistance in Cereals: Sources of Resistance, Genetics and Breeding
Authors: Ordon Frank , Habekuss Antje , Kastirr Ute , Rabenstein Frank , Kühne Thomas
Published: March 2009

In cereals, soil‐borne viruses transmitted by the plasmodiophorid Polymyxa graminis (e.g., Barley mild mosaic virus, Barley yellow mosaic virus or Soil‐borne cereal mosaic virus), have increased in importance due to the increase of the acreage infested and because yield losses cannot be prevented by chemical measures. Due to global warming, it is also expected that insect transmitted viruses vectored by aphids (e.g., Barley yellow dwarf virus, Cereal yellow dwarf virus), leafhoppers (Wheat dwarf virus) or mites (e.g., Wheat streak mosaic virus), will become much more important even in cooler regions. The environmentally most sound and also most cost effective approach to prevent high yield losses caused by these viruses is breeding for resistance. Therefore, in contrast to other reviews on cereal viruses, this study briefly reviews present knowledge on cereal‐infecting viruses and emphasizes especially the sources of resistance or tolerance to these viruses and their use in molecular breeding schemes.
Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae at the initial stage of influenza
Authors: Takano Misao , Ozaki Kyoko , Nitahara Yoshiyuki , Higuchi Wataru , Takano Tomomi , Nishiyama Akihito , Yamamoto Tatsuo
Published: March 2009

Background:  Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae infections in children with influenza have been noted because of the severity of co‐infection. In Japan, vaccination against S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae infections has been listed in the vaccine program in 2008, but the characteristics of the two organisms, colonizing at the initial stage of influenza infection, have not been investigated in detail.

Methods:  Nasopharyngeal swabs from children with influenza (flu+) (n= 236; mean age, 6.2 years) were examined for bacterial pathogens, including S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae. They were then examined for serotypes, drug susceptibilities, and resistance genes (or gene mutations). As a reference, children with upper respiratory tract infection (URTI+, flu‐; n = 189; mean age, 6.2 years) were also examined.

Results:  S. pneumoniae, β‐streptococci (groups A, B, and G), methicillin‐susceptible and ‐resistant S. aureus, Moraxella catarrhalis, and H. influenzae were isolated. For S. pneumoniae, nine serotypes were detected with prevalent types of 3, 6, 19 and 23. Penicillin resistance was detected in types 19 and 23, while resistance to macrolide and clindamycin was found in various types. For H. influenzae, only b serotype was detected, with marked ampicillin resistance. The majority was non‐typeable. Very similar results were obtained even in URTI+ (flu‐) cases.

Conclusion:  Multiple drug‐resistant S. pneumoniae with major serotypes, for example, 19 and 23 and H. influenzae with serotype b were already present at the initial stage of influenza infection, similar to URTI+ flu‐ cases. They could be prevented by current vaccines, but drug‐resistant non‐typeable H. influenzae is troubling.
Ingested foreign bodies causing complications and requiring hospitalization in European children: Results from the ESFBI study
Authors: Gregori Dario , Scarinzi Cecilia , Morra Bruno , Salerni Lorenzo , Berchialla Paola , Snidero Silvia , Corradetti Roberto , Passali Desiderio
Published: March 2009

Background:  In young children, particularly those aged 1–3 years, aerodigestive tract foreign bodies (FB) are a common pediatric problem. The aim of the present study was therefore to characterize the risk of complications and prolonged hospitalization due to FB in the upper digestive tract in terms of the characteristics of the injured patients (age, gender), typology and features of the FB, the circumstances of the accident and hospitalization details.

Methods:  A retrospective study was done in 19 hospitals in 19 corresponding European countries of 186 cases of injury due to the presence of an FB in the mouth, esophagus and stomach (ICD935), out of the 2103 overall cases of FB reported in other locations.

Results:  Complications arose in 14 cases and hospitalization was required in 164 cases. No deaths were observed. A higher incidence of hospitalization in male patients (61%) was observed. Median age for children who experienced complications was 2 years old. The most common FB removal technique was esophagoscopy. In the majority of cases the children were treated by the ENT Department. The most common FB were coins, batteries and fish bones among food.

Conclusion:  Because batteries, as well as coins and fish bones among food were the most common type of FB encountered, and because recent development of technology has accelerated broad use of disk‐type batteries, parents should be aware of this hazard, and an educational campaign for public education for this serious problem is advisable.
RESEARCH SECTION: Out of sight, out of mind? Transition for young people with learning difficulties in out‐of‐area residential special schools and colleges
Authors: Abbott David , Heslop Pauline
Published: March 2009

Young people with learning difficulties who go to residential special schools and colleges are highly vulnerable, often living a long way from home. Transition towards adulthood – from school to college, or college and beyond – requires careful planning and support for both young people and their families. Despite national policy and guidance in this area, this article suggests that young people with learning difficulties in out‐of‐area placements are being failed in terms of transition education and face huge uncertainty and very limited choices. David Abbott and Pauline Heslop, both Senior Research Fellows at the Norah Fry Research Centre based at the University of Bristol, set out, in partnership with the Home Farm Trust, to examine transitions for young people with learning difficulties who attend out‐of‐county residential special schools and colleges. Drawing on empirical research with 15 young people, their families, and the professionals that support them, they outline in this article the main barriers to effective transition planning. They suggest that a lot more focus on planning and commitment to good outcomes is required to ensure that this group of young people have similar life chances to their non‐disabled peers.
AD/HD: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder or attention seeking? Ways of distinguishing two common childhood problems
Authors: Mellor Nigel
Published: March 2009

Nigel Mellor recently retired from his work with the educational psychology service in North Tyneside. In this article, he proposes that attention‐seeking behaviour may lead to major difficulties at home and school and indicates the ways in which recent research is beginning to clarify the area. Attention deficit disorders also cause great concern. However, the extremely widespread range of attention‐seeking behaviours may easily lead to their being confused with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD). Nigel Mellor explores ways to distinguish these two behaviour problems. This, he argues, may help target interventions more efficiently. However, a great deal of further research is called for.
DRAMA: Drama: narrative pedagogy and socially challenged children
Authors: Peter Melanie
Published: March 2009

Melanie Peter, Senior Lecturer in Education and Early Childhood at Anglia Ruskin University, argues that the ability to engage in narrative stems from early interactive play formats and is essential for perceiving patterns and sequences in life – the fabric of social understanding. Developing themes set out in her earlier work, this article presents a rationale and developmental model for drama as narrative pedagogy. Whether narrative impairment is a cause or consequence of their difficulties, hard‐to‐reach or socially challenged children – exemplified by those with autism – characteristically show a limited spontaneous play repertoire, which necessarily hampers their development. However, through a play‐tutoring approach in drama, especially by the teacher‐in‐role, significant gains may be noted. Melanie Peter uses case studies to illustrate an emerging triad of competencies that contribute to enhancing social understanding: more effective communication, greater sensitivity in interaction and creative problem‐solving. The generative pedagogical dimensions support a developmental framework for using drama to explore cultural values and issues embedded in stories, towards greater narrative identity and more effective participation in a social world.
Polystoma australis (Monogenea): Life cycle studies in experimental and natural infections of normal and substitute hosts
Authors: Kok D. J. , Preez L. H. Du
Published: March 2009

A South African polystome parasite found in Kassina senegalensis (Dumeril & Bibron, 1841) was thought to be different from Polystoma australis Kok & van Wyk, 1986, which occurs in K. wealii Boulenger, 1882. The successful establishment and development of parasites, following experimental cross‐infestations, indicated that both Kassina spp. are infected only by P. australis. Observations on naturally infected hosts showed a comparable prevalence of P. australis in larval populations of the two host species. Experimental cross‐infestations also led to the establishment of branchial and vesical P. australis in larval and post‐metamorphic Natalobatrachus bonebergi Hewitt & Methuen, 1913. Field observations showed the presence of branchial P. australis in tadpoles of Rana angolensis Bocage, 1866, occurring together with heavily infected K. wealii tadpoles. The findings are relevant to aspects of the taxonomy and host‐specificity of the African anuran polystomes.

Polystoma australis, a parasite of Kassina wealii, was established experimentally in larval and post‐metamorphic K. senegalensis. The results indicated normal host‐parasite compatibility and it was concluded that natural infections of K. senegalensis also involve P. australis.

When tadpoles of the two host species occupied the same pools, the prevalence of P. australis in both populations was comparable. When K. senegalensis occurred alone, P. australis was absent. This gives the impression of host preference but may be due to differences in the population density of the two host species.

Data are given on the establishment, migration and mortality of branchial parasites developing towards neotenic maturity in the normal host. Migration from the left to the right branchial chamber occurs within the first eight days. Since parasite mortality is continuous, there is a great loss of reproductive potential.

Polystoma australis was established experimentally in larval and post‐metamorphic Natalobatrachus bonebergi. Rana angolensis tadpoles were found to be naturally infected with predestined bladder stages of P. australis. These findings emphasize the complexity of host‐parasite associations within the African anuran polystomes.
Loading constraints sexual selection and assortative mating in peracarid Crustacea
Authors: ADAMS J. , Greenwood P.J.
Published: March 2009

In precopula pairs of amphipod and isopod Crustacea in which males carry females, the males are larger than their mates and mating is size‐assortative. Mate‐guarding is a product of sexual selection. Size dimorphism and assortative mating have also been attributed to sexual selection but the supporting evidence for amphipods is equivocal. We describe a series of experiments confirming that relatively large male Gammarus pulex L. have an advantage because they can swim against stronger currents when carrying a mate. At higher current speeds, the male/female size ratio which forms is significantly greater, and in field collections size ratios of pairs are higher in streams than in lakes for a number of species. In a simulation we show that a size‐assortative pattern inevitably develops if the observed size restriction is used as a rule for pairing. The results are discussed with respect to size‐assortative mating, which has been attributed to male selectivity and male‐male competition for access to large, fecund females.
Structural features associated with respiration in some intertidal Uropodina (Acarina: Mesostigmata)
Authors: PUGH P. J. A. , KING P. E. , FORDY M. R.
Published: March 2009

The present study suggests that the peritremes of both Phaulodinychus repleta (Berlese) (Uropo‐didae) and Thinozercon michaeli Halbert (Thinozerconidae) are incapable of forming peritreme plastrons in the same manner as the Gamasina or Phaulodinychus mitis (Leonardi) (Uropodidae) described in previous studies. However, it is proposed that extra‐peritrematic plastrons may be formed by other structures, for example the pedofossae and legs in P. repleta and the coarse sculpturing on the dorsal surface of the peritrematic shield in T. michaeli, which may trap an airfilm during inundation.
Scaling of follicular sizes in mammalian ovaries
Authors: GOSDEN R. G. , TELFER EVELYN
Published: March 2009

The scaling of ovarian follicle and oocyte sizes according to body weight (M, ranging from 0005–500 kg) has been analysed using data obtained from 22 mammalian species in nine orders. The diameters of non‐growing (primordial) follicles were correlated significantly with body weight, the relationship being described by the allometric formula y = 0028M0.10. The mean size at which growing follicles began to accumulate extracellular fluid was approximately the same in all species, 0–3 mm diameter. Graafian follicle sizes varied allometrically with body weight as a result of differences in the volumes of follicular fluid rather than those of oocytes, which were relatively similar in eutherian mammals. The statistical significance of the correlation between Graafian and body sizes was increased when the dimensions for an ovulatory quota of follicles were combined because follicles in polyovulating species were disproportionately small. The total Graafian surface areas and volumes were then predicted from body weight by 58–4M0.65 and 18–5M1.06, respectively. Follicular dimensions in the three species of primates were significantly greater than predicted by the allometric relationship. The exponents of these relationships show that the total volume of a set of preovulatory follicles varies approximately isometrically with body weight and, therefore, with the presumptive hormone distribution volume (M1.0). The hypoallometric relationship of follicular surface area demonstrates that, during the course of the evolution of body size, the surface area for secretion has not increased to match the dilution of hormones in the body pool.
Numbers of follicles and oocytes in mammalian ovaries and their allometric relationships
Authors: GOSDEN R. G. , TELFER EVELYN
Published: March 2009

The numbers of ovarian follicles present in the reserve pool of non‐growing (‘primordial’) stages at the commencement of adult life in 19 species varied allometrically with both body weight (M, in kg) and with maximum life expectation (L, in years), the mathematical expressions being 27700M0.47 and 820M1.58, respectively. These allometric relationships, which could not be accounted for by differences in reproductive behaviour patterns or ovulation rates, indicate that species differences in the size of the follicular store, perhaps accompanied by more parsimonious utilization, could be a life strategy which guarantees fecundity throughout most of the lifespan. The number of follicles in humans at menarcheal age is commensurate with body size, and follicular deficiency at menopause in mid‐life may have therefore arisen adventitiously with lifespan extension.
Elastic properties of structures in the tails of cetaceans (Phocaena and Lagenorhynchus) and their effect on the energy cost of swimming
Authors: BENNETT M. B. , KER R. F. , ALEXANDER R. MCN.
Published: March 2009

A swimming whale must do work against hydrodynamic forces, to move its fluke through the water. In addition, it must do positive work at some stages of the swimming cycle and negative work at others, to accelerate and decelerate the fluke. The energy cost of swimming could be reduced by means of elastic elements in the tail.

A mathematical model predicts the work required of the muscles, when they have elastic compliances in series with them. It is shown that there is an optimum compliance that minimizes the energy cost of swimming, for any given ratio of peak hydrodynamic force to peak inertial force.

Anatomical measurements have been made on flukes, tail muscles and tendons of Phocaena and Lagenorhynchus. Mechanical tests have been made on the tendons, fluke and vertebral column. It is shown that the important compliances are those of the tendons, and the axial compliance of the vertebral column, and that these compliances should be regarded as being in series with the muscles.

Calculations using these data, and Lang & Daybell's (1963) observations of a Lagenorhynchus swimming at 5 m/s, seem to show that the compliances greatly exceed the optimum value for this swimming speed. They increase the energy cost of swimming, rather than decreasing it.
Sexual dimorphism in the Cervidae and its relation to habitat
Authors: Geist V. , Bayer M.
Published: March 2009

In the Cervidae, sexual dimorphism in body mass, armament and structure of the breeding pelage appears to be, as in African antelope, a curvilinear function on openness of habitat. Sexes converge in characteristics towards male‐like monomorphism in deer that hide in dense cover, as well as in gregarious, cursorial dwellers in open terrain. Relative antler mass correlates with weight dimorphism. The most cursorial species, the wapiti (Cervus elaphus canadensis) and the caribou (Rangifer farandus) converge towards male monomorphism, with the wapiti showing strong reduction in weight dimorphism (compared to red deer C. elaphus hippelaphus), and structure of the breeding pelage, but not in weaponry. Male and female caribou converge strongly in the structure of the breeding pelage, less so in weaponry, and least in weight dimorphism; antlers in female caribou are thus comparable to horns in male‐like females of plains bovids. In weight dimorphism, wapiti have almost reached the level of the African grazing antelopes of the tribes Alcelaphini and Orygini. Sexual dimorphism is maximal in mixed and concentrate feeders from semi‐open landscapes.
Some sub‐lethal effects of lead on mute swan Cygnus olor
Authors: O'HALLORAN J. , MYERS A. A. , DUGGAN P. FINBARR
Published: March 2009

Tissue and blood lead levels in mute swans Cygnus olor (Gmelin) were used to investigate sublethal effects of lead. Three categories of swan mortality were defined: (1) acute lead poisoning; (2) collisions; and (3) other reasons. In most tissues, lead concentrations were highest according to the cause of death in order: lead poisoning < collisions < other causes. Elevated blood levels and haematological disorders were detected in swans which had collided with objects. The possible role of elevated lead in causing collisions in mute swans is discussed.
Epidermal characteristics of reproductive subsets in an inshore population of winter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus
Authors: BURTON D. , BURTON M. P. M.
Published: March 2009

The winter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus (Walbaum), population off Newfoundland can include a ‘non‐reproductive post‐mature’ subset at any time together with ‘reproductive’ and ‘immature’ subsets. Skin samples were taken from male and female specimens from each subset in the winter, after reproductive flounder have normally undergone a pre‐winter phase of gonadal recrudescence, and also during the spring prespawning period and in the summer following spawning. Results for immature flounder demonstrate that fish size influences epidermal thickness in this species. The epidermis of reproductive flounders is thick, representing a secondary sexual characteristic, during gonadal recrudescence. A thick epidermis is most pronounced on the blind‐side, particularly in prespawning males. Although the epidermis of non‐reproductive post‐mature fish was thinner than in prespawning males and females, it was thicker than in immature flounders. Also, the epidermal thickness of non‐reproductive post‐mature individuals can still display some seasonal change although gonadal recrudescence has not been sustained. There is also a relationship between condition factor and epidermal thickness which is manifested particularly clearly in immature and non‐reproductive post‐mature flounder.
Diving in darkness: whiskers as sense organs of the ringed seal (Phoca hispida saimensis)
Authors: HYVÄRINEN HEIKKI
Published: March 2009

Underwater vocalization and the functional structure of different vibrissae of the ringed seal (Phoca hispida saimensis) of Lake Saimaa, Eastern Finland, were studied. These seals live in darkness under the ice cover for several months during the year. It is known that blind seals are managing well in the lake. Visibility under water in some parts of the area where the seals live is only 2 m. It is suggested that echolocation is used in orientation and feeding. The Saimaa seal has click and click trial underwater vocalizations. However, both the frequency and intensity of the vocalization are low compared with, for example, those of dolphins. The structural adaptations for underwater sound localization are also not well developed.

The ringed seal has, however, extremely well‐developed vibrissae. The innervation of one vibrissa is more than 10 times greater than normally found in mammals. The main structural deviations from normal mammalian vibrissae are: (1) an upper cavernous sinus, (2) a groove in the wall of the capsule at the level of the lower cavernous sinus, (3) elasticity of the connective tissue bands fixing the hair root to the capsule in the lower cavernous sinus and especially (4) the structure and innervation of the ring sinus area. Sensory elements are situated upon the glassy membrane on the surface of the outer rootsheath and in the basal cell layer of the outer rootsheath which is like a sensory epithelium. Below this epithelium a layer of liquid or gelatinous material and large amounts of glycogen are found. This sensory epithelium is especially well developed in the superciliary vibrissae. These vibrissae are protruded some millimetres when the seals are attentive. It is suggested that the vibrissae also sense sounds, which are transmitted to the sensory elements by tissue conduction through the capsule wall and via the blood sinuses. The seals may possibly detect compressional waves with the vibrissae.
The anatomy of some new archaeogastropod limpets (Order Patellogastropoda, Suborder Lepetopsina) from hydrothermal vents
Authors: Fretter Vera
Published: March 2009

The anatomy of one species of neolepetopsid limpet, Eulepetopsis vitrea (Order Patellogastropoda, Suborder Lepetopsina), is described, and this is followed by comments on differences shown by four other members of the Suborder, Neolepetopsis occulta, N. densata, N. gordensis and Paralepetopsis fioridensis.

These limpets possess features linking them directly with limpets from other habitats, in this case with patellogastropods. Shared external features relate to the shallow pallial cavity with no gill; the single fold of the mantle edge, which is sensory, glandular, and has a respiratory function; in the gut the presence of inner as well as outer lips, with a strongly arched dorsal jaw associated with the former; the absence of an epipodium; and the cavity of the protoconch sealed from that of the teleoconch by a septum. The relationship displayed by internal anatomy is even more striking: the docoglossate radula and licker; the oesophageal glands forming a series of pouches, each with its own opening to the oesophagus; the stomach a simple ciliated sac lacking gastric shield, sorting area, and caecum; the enlarged initial part of the intestine; the orientation of the chambers of the heart, which is not traversed by the rectum; the lack of haemocyanin; the opening of the gonad directly to the base of the papilla of the right kidney; the absence of secondary sexual structures; the small left kidney displaying characters of a nephridial gland; and the degree of concentration of the main ganglia and the arrangement of the visceral loop. This aggregate of characters shows that the neolepetopsids cannot be separated from patellogastropods.

The radula of the neolepetopsid differs from that of other patellogastropods in its unmineralized and articulating teeth and in the presence of a rachidian: the first feature appears to be a derived character and the other two ancestral. These radular differences contrast with the anatomical homogeneity exhibited not only here but throughout the patellogastropods. Such anatomical differences as do occur are most easily explained as mosaic evolution.
Studies on the thymus gland of British Cervidae, particularly muntjac, Muntiacus reevesi, and fallow, Dama dama, deer
Authors: Chapman Norma , Twigg G. I.
Published: March 2009

The thymus in muntjac and fallow deer, as well as in sika (Cervus nippon and red (Cervus elaphus, has both cervical and thoracic portions. Foetal development of the gland in muntjac, fallow and sika is rapid and occurs relatively earlier than in the red fox, the only other mammal for which comparable data are available. Between birth and one year the thymus weights of muntjac and fallow fawns do not change significantly, but from then onwards there is a decline in weight and by six years of age the gland is very small.

The thymus of muntjac appears to be less responsive to sexual changes than that of fallow and it is suggested that this may be related to the fact that muntjac breed at all times of the year. The thymus response in deer is perhaps less clear‐cut than in other mammals for which we have information and the relationship of the gland to sexual state merits further investigation.

Thymus involution occurs with old age and also with trauma and many other stresses experienced by deer in the wild.
Nesting of the Montpellier snake (Malpolon monspessulanus) inside rabbit warrens at Doñana National Park (SW Spain): phenology and a probable case of communal nesting
Authors: Carman blazquez M , Villafuerte R.
Published: March 2009

The reproductive biology of the Montpellier snake (Malpolon monspessulanus) under natural conditions is poorly known. It is commonly accepted that, as in other colubrids, it lays its eggs under dry leaves (Naulleau, 1984) or in crevices in the ground (Hailey, 1982). Burger & Zappalorti (1986), while noting that the reasons for nest site selection have not been studied in snakes, suggest predator avoidance and protection of eggs from inclement weather. Both factors may be extremely important for nest‐site selection in our study area, the Doñana National Park (37°7′, 36°48′ N; 6°12′, 6°30′ W) which is extremely dry, with hot summers and mild winters. Montpellier snakes lay their eggs in mid‐July, well into the summer (mean rainfall = 4°7 mm; average temperature = 22°28 °C, for June, July and August period). Additionally, densities of potential predators are also very high (Valverde, 1967). Consequently, selection of protected nest sites is likely to be extremely advantageous for this snake since both predation and desiccation of eggs will be reduced. As the sandy ground lacks natural crevices and holes, the use of dens of animals such as bee‐eater galleries (Alvarez, 1974) and rabbit warrens may be favoured.
The status of the hoary bat, Lasiurus cinereus, as a British species
Authors: Hill J. E. , Yalden D. W.
Published: March 2009

The hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus) is a widespread American species; the nominate race, L. c. cinereus, occurs throughout most of North America, L. c. villosissimus is found in South America, and L. c. semotus occurs in Hawaii (Schump & Schump, 1982). Its possible admission to the list of British mammals depends upon a single specimen found on South Ronaldsay, Orkney, in about September 1847 (Wolley, 1849, 1850a, b). From Wolley's detailed account and description, there seems no doubt of the circumstances of the finding of the specimen, nor of its identity. Doubts are only raised by the existence of a specimen of Lasiurus in the Zoology Museum of the University of Cambridge which had been supposed to be the Orkney specimen. This specimen was examined by Barrett‐Hamilton (1910) who reported that it was an example of the Hawaiian form L. c. semotus (he used the name Nycteris semota), noted that it did not match Wolley's careful description, but concluded “the matter is not as clear as it might be”. This doubt has persisted to the present day, and while the record is mentioned in some accounts (e.g. van den Brink, 1967), it is omitted completely from others, notably Corbet & Southern (1977). The uncertainty has prompted this brief re‐examination of the issue; in particular, what is the identity of the specimen in Cambridge, how does it compare with Wolley's account of the Orkney specimen, and what, in the light of modern knowledge of L. cinereus, is the likelihood of its occurrence as a vagrant in Britain?
Age assessment of fallow deer (Dama dama): from a scoring scheme based on radiographs of developing permanent molariform teeth
Authors: Brown W. A. B. , Chapman Norma G.
Published: March 2009

The stages of permanent tooth development observed in radiographs of the mandible were described for known‐aged fallow deer Dama dama. Ten stages were defined and, by allocating scores for these stages, the scores that may be expected for a particular age have been identified. Lastly, the predicted age was given for total molariform scores. These were obtained, with 95% prediction intervals, from a regression of age on total molariform scores. An age assessment from tooth development stages can be made up to three years, after which, no further development takes place.
Feeding strategy of coypu (Myocastor coypus) in central western France
Authors: Abbas A.
Published: March 2009

The diet of coypu (Myocastor coypus) on two sites in a managed marsh was investigated by field observations and microscopic analysis of faeces. The habitat is mainly grazing pasture and over 51% of the plant fragments recovered from faeces were leaves of Graminaceae. Other food included hydrophytes, Cyperaceae, dicotyledons, flowers and seeds of Graminaceae and various roots. The mean annual diet of coypu was similar at both sites and showed moderate interannual variations. Relative proportions of different foods varied with season and availability. Hydrophytes, mostly Lemnaceae, were preferentially selected in late summer and autumn. Coypu fed on roots during winter, particularly in periods of exceptional food shortage due to flooding and severe frost. Even when crops were available, coypu utilized a wide range of food. The study shows the importance of feeding strategy in the ability of coypu to colonize new habitats, particularly those which are man‐made.
The giant squid Architeuthis in southern African waters
Authors: Roeleveld Martina A. Compagnro , Lipinski M. R.
Published: March 2009

Three specimens of the rare giant squid (genus Architeuthis, 18 nominal species) are described from the waters around southern Africa. Consideration of their internal and external morphology, including beaks, radula, statocyst and statolith give no reason to suppose that the three specimens do not pertain to the same species. A standardized data collection form and a summary of existing morphometric data are presented for the first time and the morphology and systematics of the genus are discussed. The value of various systematic characters is examined and certain guidelines are proposed, with an appeal for a more scientific approach to Architeuthis studies.

Features of the internal anatomy, including the female reproductive tract, are described and illustrated and the beak dimensions are used to evaluate existing regression formulae for beak and body parameters. The statocyst and statolith are described and illustrated in full, the statolith for the first time, and are compared with those of other squids.

The value of recent data from trawl‐caught specimens, as well as indirect evidence, is cited to replace speculation in discussions on distribution and habitat. Our specimens suggest that the waters off the south‐western coast of Africa may be one of the natural habitats of Architeurhis, during both feeding and spawning periods of the life cycle.
Fine structure and histochemistry of the venom gland in the Indian stinging catfish (Heteropneustes fossilis)
Authors: Whitear M. , Zaccone G. , Ricca M. B. , Cascio P. Lo
Published: March 2009

The venom glands of Heteropneustes lie deep in the epidermis at the sides of the pectoral fin spines, and consist of large cells that react positively to histochemical tests for proteins, histidine and tyrosine, negatively to periodic acid‐Schiff and for serotonin and bombesin. The venom cells are of two types, appearing to have dense or lucent cytoplasm when seen by electron microscopy. The dense type has the better developed Golgi systems, the lucent type has more ribosomes. Both appear to differentiate from the basal layer of the epidermis. The epidermis over the glands has a zone with relatively few desmosomes and enlarged intercellular spaces. Both staining reactions and fine structure differentiate the venom gland cells from the club cells of the epidermis, to such an extent that they must be considered distinct secretory elements.
Arrangement, histochemistry and fine structure of the connective tissue architecture of lampreys
Authors: Potter I. C. , Welsch U.
Published: March 2009

The connective tissues surrounding the main central organs and within the musculature and integument of larvae and adults of the lampreys Geotria auslralis, Lampetra fluviatilis and Mordacia mordax have been studied by means of conventional light microscopy, classical and lectin histochemistry and electron microscopy. The results are considered in the context of biochemical investigations to help elucidate the distribution of the different types of collagen in lampreys. The notochord comprises a thin outer layer and very electron‐dense ‘elastica externa’, which reacts strongly with Verhoeff's elastic stain, and a thick inner layer of circularly arranged collagen fibrils (diam. 11 nm). The notochord, nerve cord and fat column and the perivisceral cavity are bounded by a continuum of collagenic fibres (fibril diam. 30–40 nm), mainly orientated circularly on the outside and longitudinally on the inside. Comparable fibres extend from this central continuum and the arcualia into the myosepta and around muscle blocks. In the dermis, the collagen fibres (fibril diam. 25–35 nm) are densely packed and arranged in layers, the fibres of consecutive layers running at 90 to 110° to each other. Reticular fibres, which form an extensive network throughout the body, contain fibrils (diam. 20–40 nm) embedded in an amorphous material of medium electron density, characterized by an unusually high content of various glycocomponents. Fibres similar to those of the elastic fibre system of higher vertebrates are present in the subdermis, in the meninges and immediately ventral to the notochord. During the lengthy non‐feeding periods of metamorphosis and the upstream spawning migration, the thickness of some collagenic sheaths increases markedly, whereas that of others remains the same or declines precipitously. The significance of these changes is related to differences in the biology of different stages in the life cycle. The connective tissue of lampreys are highly developed and specialized and form an integrated meshwork which, in the absence of vertebral apophyses, must be particularly important in maintaining the structural integrity and functioning of the musculature during swimming.
The breeding biology and aspects of the feeding ecology of brown noddies Anous stolidus nesting near Culebra, Puerto Rico, 1985–1989
Authors: Morris R. D. , Chardine J. W.
Published: March 2009

We have studied brown noddies Anous stolidus breeding on Cayo Noroeste in the Culebra National Wildlife Refuge for the past five years (1985–1989). Daily visits during our residence there each year permitted collection of precise data on arrival chronology, egg‐laying and incubation patterns, egg morphometries, chick growth rates, food delivered to chicks and breeding success. Over 150 adults are now individually colour‐banded, and each annual chick cohort has been uniquely marked. Some features of the breeding biology of Culebran brown noddies were similar to those reported for pairs at Atlantic and Pacific Ocean colonies; these included duration of egg development, mass of newly hatched chicks, chick growth rates and fledging periods. Other features appear unique to Culebra. These include a tightly synchronous arrival (range of first egg dates: 29 April‐4 May) and short egg‐laying period (about six weeks), a consistently high breeding success each year (average 84% hatching success, 88% chicks fledged from eggs hatched, 0.79 chicks fledged per pair), and an unusually narrow range of food items (two fish species) taken by adults for their own needs and those of chicks. Observations of the direction taken by adults departing the colony suggest a predictable and productive foraging area along a prominent east‐west shelf‐break located c. 20 km to the north. We conclude that during these five years, brown noddies on Cayo Noroeste were not limited by food during the breeding season.
On the interpretation of host‐parasite ecology: Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Nematoda) in wild wood mouse (Apodemus sylvaticus) populations
Authors: Gregory Richard D.
Published: March 2009

This paper describes epidemiological and seasonal patterns in the interaction between wood mice, Apodemus sylvaticus and Heligmosomoides polygyrus. Data used in the analysis were collected by C. S. Elton and co‐workers at Bagley Wood, Oxfordshire in the late 1920s. Heligmosomoides polygyrus was by far the most common helminth parasite with 70% of all wood mice infected and average intensity around 12 worms per mouse. Male and female mice were shown to harbour similar parasite burdens. Parasite numbers per host were highly overdispersed and were well described by the negative binomial distribution. There was little evidence for convexity in age (= weight)‐intensity curves, either within or across sexes.

Host and parasite numbers showed predictable seasonal patterns, with mouse populations at their largest at the end of the breeding season, in August and September, and parasite populations at their largest in the late spring, around May. Results are discussed in relation to the ecology of H. polygyrus in wood and laboratory mice, and tentative comparison is made with human helminth infection. The interpretation of epidemiological patterns in these data was problematic. Of particular importance was the statistical distribution of parasites within the host population, and possible differences between mouse sexes in relation to growth, survival and trapping. Such difficulties are relevant to a range of similar field data.