bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selectively Promoting or Preventing Osteoblast Growth on Titanium Functionalized with Polyelectrolyte Multilayers
Authors: Zankovych Sergiy , Bossert Jörg , Faucon Mathilde , Finger Ulrich , Jandt Klaus D.
Published: August 2011

Titanium plays an important role in medical applications, such as hip joint implants or fixation plates. These implants must perform differently depending on their clinical application. In particular, the osseointegrative properties required of the implant vary with clinical application. The present work is aimed at the functionalization of titanium surface using polyelectrolyte multilayers consisting of natural biopolymers and testing their cell adhesive properties with respect to the osseointegration capacity.

Multilayered coatings were created from chitosan (Chi), hyaluronic acid (HA), and gelatine (Gel) through layer‐by‐layer deposition. Cell adhesion, proliferation, and viability were tested in vitro with the human osteoblast cell line CAL‐72 at timescales up to 7 d. Two multilayer coatings consisting of alternated chitosan/gelatin or chitosan/hyaluronic acid layers with the outmost layer of gelatin (Chi/Gel) or hyaluronic acid (Chi/HA), respectively, were tested. The experimental results showed that surfaces functionalized with Chi/Gel and Chi/HA multilayers demonstrated a good initial adhesion of osteoblasts. After 4 d culturing, osteoblast cells were almost completely detached from the substrates functionalized with Chi/HA multilayers. In contrast to Chi/HA, the proliferation of osteoblasts on substrates with Chi/Gel multilayer coatings was statistically significantly higher compared to the control titanium.

We have shown that the growth of osteoblasts can be enhanced or completely prevented on a titanium surface functionalized with polyelectrolyte multilayers consisting of natural biopolymers, as desired. Both multilayer coatings, Chi/Gel and Chi/HA, have potential for applications in the field of titanium implants, where rapid osseointegration is essential, and/or where no ingrowth of the implant is desired, respectively.
Programming many‐core architectures ‐ a case study: dense matrix computations on the Intel single‐chip cloud computer processor
Authors: Marker Bryan , Chan Ernie , Poulson Jack , van de Geijn Robert , Van der Wijngaart Rob F. , Mattson Timothy G. , Kubaska Theodore E.
Published: August 2011

A message passing, distributed‐memory parallel computer on a chip is one possible design for future, many‐core architectures. We discuss initial experiences with the Intel Single‐chip Cloud Computer research processor, which is a prototype architecture that incorporates 48 cores on a single die that can communicate via a small, shared, on‐die buffer. The experiment is to port a state‐of‐the‐art, distributed‐memory, dense matrix library, Elemental, to this architecture and gain insight from the experience. We show that programmability addressed by this library, especially the proper abstraction for collective communication, greatly aids the porting effort. This enables us to support a wide range of functionality with limited changes to the library code. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Speeding up solving of differential matrix Riccati equations using GPGPU computing and MATLAB
Authors: Peinado Jesus , Ibáñez Jacinto J. , Arias Enrique , Hernández Vicente
Published: August 2011

In this work, we developed a parallel algorithm to speed up the resolution of differential matrix Riccati equations using a backward differentiation formula algorithm based on a fixed‐point method. The role and use of differential matrix Riccati equations is especially important in several applications such as optimal control, filtering, and estimation. In some cases, the problem could be large, and it is interesting to speed it up as much as possible. Recently, modern graphic processing units (GPUs) have been used as a way to improve performance. In this paper, we used an approach based on general‐purpose computing on graphics processing units. We used NVIDIA © GPUs with unified architecture. To do this, a special version of basic linear algebra subprograms for GPUs, called CUBLAS, and a package (three different packages were studied) to solve linear systems using GPUs have been used. Moreover, we developed a MATLAB © toolkit to use our implementation from MATLAB in such a way that if the user has a graphic card, the performance of the implementation is improved. If the user does not have such a card, the algorithm can also be run using the machine CPU. Experimental results on a NVIDIA Quadro FX 5800 are shown. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution of a bifurcation in a meandering river with adjustable channel widths, Rhine delta apex, The Netherlands
Authors: Kleinhans Maarten G. , Cohen Kim M. , Hoekstra Jantine , IJmker Janneke M.
Published: August 2011

Rivers may dramatically change course on a fluvial plain. Such an avulsion temporarily leads to two active channels connected at a bifurcation. Here we study the effect of dynamic meandering at the bifurcation and the effect of channel width adjustment to changing discharge in both downstream branches on the evolution of a bifurcation and coexisting channels. As an example, we reconstructed the last major avulsion at the Rhine delta apex.

We combined historical and geological data to reconstruct a slowly developing avulsion process spanning 2000 years and involving channel width adjustment and meandering at the bifurcation. Based on earlier idealised models, we developed a one‐dimensional model for long‐term morphodynamic prediction of upstream channel and bifurcates connected at the bifurcation node. The model predicts flow and sediment partitioning at the node, including the effect of migrating meanders at the bifurcation and channel width adjustment.

Bifurcate channel width adaptation to changing discharge partitioning dramatically slows the pacing of bifurcation evolution because the sediment balance for width adjustment and bed evolution are coupled. The model further shows that meandering at the bifurcation modulates channel abandonment or enlargement periodically. This explains hitherto unrecognised reactivation signals in the sedimentary record of the studied bifurcation meander belts, newly identified in our geological reconstruction. Historical maps show that bifurcation migration due to meander bend dynamics increases the bifurcation angle, which increases the rate of closure of one bifurcate.

The combination of model and reconstruction identifies the relevant timescales for bifurcation evolution and avulsion duration. These are the time required to fill one downstream channel over one backwater length, the time to translate one meander wavelength downstream and, for strong river banks, the adaptation timescale to adjust channel width. The findings have relevance for all avulsions where channel width can adjust to changing discharge and where meandering occurs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transcriptional profiling in Saccharomyces cerevisiae relevant for predicting alachlor mechanisms of toxicity
Authors: Gil Fátima N , Gonçalves Alina C , Jacinto Maria João , Becker Jörg D , Viegas Cristina A
Published: August 2011

Alachlor has been a commonly applied herbicide and is a substance of ecotoxicological concern. The present study aims to identify molecular biomarkers in the eukaryotic model Saccharomyces cerevisiae that can be used to predict potential cytotoxic effects of alachlor, while providing new mechanistic clues with possible relevance for experimentally less accessible eukaryotes. It focuses on genome-wide expression profiling in a yeast population in response to two exposure scenarios exerting effects from slight to moderate magnitude at phenotypic level. In particular, 100 and 264 genes, respectively, were found as differentially expressed on a 2-h exposure of yeast cells to the lowest observed effect concentration (110 mg/L) and the 20% inhibitory concentration (200 mg/L) of alachlor, in comparison with cells not exposed to the herbicide. The datasets of alachlor-responsive genes showed functional enrichment in diverse metabolic, transmembrane transport, cell defense, and detoxification categories. In general, the modifications in transcript levels of selected candidate biomarkers, assessed by quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, confirmed the microarray data and varied consistently with the growth inhibitory effects of alachlor. Approximately 16% of the proteins encoded by alachlor-differentially expressed genes were found to share significant homology with proteins from ecologically relevant eukaryotic species. The biological relevance of these results is discussed in relation to new insights into the potential adverse effects of alachlor in health of organisms from ecosystems, particularly in worst-case situations such as accidental spills or careless storage, usage, and disposal. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:2506–2518. © 2011 SETAC
Avoidance, weight loss, and cocoon production assessment for Eisenia fetida exposed to C60 in soil
Authors: Li Dong , Alvarez Pedro J.J
Published: August 2011

Eisenia fetida was used as a model terrestrial organism to assess the potential ecotoxicity of molecular pristine C60 in soil. Reproduction (assessed by counting cocoon numbers) was hindered only at very high C60 concentrations (5% by weight), and C60 (up to 1%) was not avoided and did not hinder earthworm growth. This suggests that E. fetida is unlikely to experience acute toxicity as a result of C60 occurrence in soil. Whether sublethal toxicity may decrease earthworm populations that are chronically exposed to C60 at lower concentrations remains to be determined. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:2542–2545. © 2011 SETAC
Probabilistic assessment of one‐step‐ahead rainfall variation by Split Markov Process
Authors: Maity Rajib
Published: August 2011

In this paper, Split Markov Process (SMP) is developed to assess one‐step‐ahead variation of daily rainfall at a rain gauge station. SMP is an advancement of general Markov Process and specially developed for probabilistic assessment of change in daily rainfall magnitude. The approach is based on a first‐order Markov chain to simulate daily rainfall variation at a point through state/sub‐state transitional probability matrix (TPM). The state/sub‐state TPM is based on the historical transitions from a particular state to a particular sub‐state, which is the basic difference between SMP and general Markov Process. The cumulative state/sub‐state TPM is represented in a contour plot at different probability levels. The developed cumulative state/sub‐state TPM is used to assess the possible range of rainfall in next time step, in a probabilistic sense. Application of SMP is investigated for daily rainfall at four rain gauge stations – Khandwa, Jabalpur, Sambalpur, and Puri, located at various parts in India. There are 99 years of record available out of which approximately 80% of data are used for calibration, and 20% of data are used to assess the performance. Thus, 80 years of daily monsoon rainfall is used to develop the state/sub‐state TPM, and 19 years data are used to investigate its performance. Model performance is assessed in terms of hit rate (HR), false alarm rate (FAR), and percentage captured. It is found that percentage captured is maximum for Khandwa (70%) and minimum for Sambalpur (44%) whereas hit rate is maximum for Sambalpur and minimum for Khandwa (73%). FAR is around 30% or below for Jabalpur, Sambalpur, and Puri. FAR is maximum for Khandwa (37%). Overall, the assessed range, particularly the upper limit, provides a quantification possible extreme value in the next time step, which is a very useful information to tackle the extreme events, such as flooding, water logging and so on. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reo + mCRL2 : A framework for model-checking dataflow in service compositions
Authors: Kokash Natallia , Krause Christian , de Vink Erik
Published: August 2011

The paradigm of service-oriented computing revolutionized the field of software engineering. According to this paradigm, new systems are composed of existing stand-alone services to support complex cross-organizational business processes. Correct communication of these services is not possible without a proper coordination mechanism. The Reo coordination language is a channel-based modeling language that introduces various types of channels and their composition rules. By composing Reo channels, one can specify Reo connectors that realize arbitrary complex behavioral protocols. Several formalisms have been introduced to give semantics to Reo. In their most basic form, they reflect service synchronization and dataflow constraints imposed by connectors. To ensure that the composed system behaves as intended, we need a wide range of automated verification tools to assist service composition designers. In this paper, we present our framework for the verification of Reo using the mCRL2 toolset. We unify our previous work on mapping various semantic models for Reo, namely, constraint automata, timed constraint automata, coloring semantics and the newly developed action constraint automata, to the process algebraic specification language of mCRL2, address the correctness of this mapping, discuss tool support, and present a detailed example that illustrates the use of Reo empowered with mCRL2 for the analysis of dataflow in service-based process models.
Attitudes toward political engagement and willingness to participate in politics: Trajectories throughout adolescence ⋆
Authors: Eckstein Katharina , Noack Peter , Gniewosz Burkhard
Published: August 2011

Drawing on data from a longitudinal cohort‐sequential project, the present study examined developmental trajectories of adolescents’ attitudes toward political engagement and their willingness to participate in politics from grade 7 to 11 while accounting for the influence of school track and gender. Moreover, stabilities on the dependent variables were assessed. The results revealed differential trajectories regarding adolescents’ educational level. Increases were mainly shown for students attending the college‐bound school track. Generally, both orientations toward political behaviors were shown to become more stable throughout the adolescent years. Together, the findings confirmed adolescence to be a crucial period in life concerning the emergence, consolidation, and development of political points of view.
Activity‐dependent reduction of dopamine D2 receptors during a postnatal critical period of plasticity in rat striatum is not affected by prenatal haloperidol treatment
Authors: Soiza‐Reilly Mariano , Azcurra Julio M.
Published: August 2011

Motor activity induced in the Circling Training test (CT) during a postnatal (PN) critical period of plasticity (PN30–37) produces a long‐lasting decrease in the number of binding sites and mRNA expression levels of the dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) in rat striatum. Prenatal exposure to the antipsychotic haloperidol also decreases postnatal levels of the striatal D2R in the offspring. We examined whether such fetal exposure to haloperidol could affect the activity‐dependent reduction of the D2R system during the critical period. Half of the male offspring exposed to either haloperidol (2.5 mg/kg/day), i.p.) or saline during gestational days 5–18 were subjected to the CT during the critical period, while the remaining represented CT control animals. The adult number of binding sites and mRNA expression levels of the striatal D2R at PN90 were not changed by prenatal haloperidol treatment alone. On the other hand, only pups subjected to the CT during the critical period showed decreases in both studied parameters, regardless the prenatal treatment. These findings indicated that the postnatal reduction of the striatal D2R binding induced prenatally by haloperidol does not affect long‐lasting activity‐dependent plastic changes on the same receptor system elicited by motor activity in an ontogenetic critical period of plasticity in rat striatum.
Developmental differences in peripheral glabrous skin mechanosensory nerve receptive field and intracellular electrophysiologic properties: phenotypic characterization in infant and juvenile rats
Authors: Boada M. Danilo , Gutierrez Silvia , Houle Timothy , Eisenach James C. , Ririe Douglas G.
Published: August 2011

Developmental differences in peripheral neuron characteristics and functionality exist. Direct measurement of active and passive electrophysiologic and receptive field characteristics of single mechanosensitive neurons in glabrous skin was performed and phenotypic characterization of fiber subtypes was applied to analyze developmental differences in peripheral mechanosensitive afferents. After Institutional approval, male Sprague‐Dawley infant (P7: postnatal day 7) and juvenile (P28) rats were anesthetized and single cell intracellular electrophysiology was performed in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) soma of mechanosensitive cells with receptive field (RF) in the glabrous skin of the hindpaw. Passive and active electrical properties of the cells and RF size and characteristics determined. Fiber subtype classification was performed and developmental differences in fiber subtype properties analyzed. RF size was smaller at P7 for both low and high threshold mechanoreceptor (LTMR and HTMR) with no differences between A‐ and C‐HTMR (AHTMR and CHTMR). The RF size was also correlated to anatomic location on glabrous skin, toes having smaller RF. Conduction velocity (CV) was adequate at P28 for AHTMR and CHTMR classification, but not at P7. Only width of the action potential at half height (D50) was significantly different between HTMR at P7, while D50, CV and amplitude of the AP were significant for HTMR at P28. RF size is determined in part by the RF distribution of the peripheral neuron. Developmental differences in RF size occur with larger RF sizes occurring in younger animals. This is consistent with RF size differences determined by measuring RF in the spinal cord, except the peripheral RF is much smaller, more refined, and in some cases pinpoint. Developmental differences make CV alone unreliable for neuron classification. Utilizing integration of all measured parameters allows classification of neurons into subtypes even at the younger ages. This will prove important in understanding changes that occur in the peripheral sensory afferents in the face of ongoing development and injury early in life.
Symptomatic Capillaria Plica Infection in a Young European Cat
Authors: Rossi Moreno , Messina Nicoletta , Ariti Gaetano , Riggio Francesca , Perrucci Stefania
Published: August 2011

An 8-month-old owned European cat showing abdominal pain, fever, distended painful bladder and urinary blockage was presented. Intravenous fluids were immediately administered and, after sedation, a urinary catheter was applied. Blood and urine analysis revealed cystitis and a moderate-to-severe degree of renal failure. About 20 thread-like nematodes, identified as Capillaria plica larvae and fragments of adult stages, were found in the urine sediment. After treatment with an oral formulation of fenbendazole at 25 mg/kg q 12 h for 10 days, urinary signs and bladder worms disappeared. Cases of Capillaria species bladder worms in cats are rarely reported and most infected cats show no clinical signs, presumably because of a low parasite burden. In the present study, feline capillariosis was associated to urethral obstruction, severe difficulties in urination, cystitis and renal failures.
Concentration‐dependent cellular responses of arsenic in keratinocytes
Authors: Liao Wei‐Ting , Lan Cheng‐Che Eric , Lee Chih‐Hung , Yu Hsin‐Su
Published: August 2011

Arsenic (As) is considered as a human carcinogen or tumor‐promoting agent. Epidemiological evidences indicated that cancer incidences of residents in arseniasis areas were significantly higher in multiple organs, including urinary bladder, lungs, and especially the skin, than those living in non‐arseniasis areas. In the context of skin cancers, keratinocytes are believed to be the main target cells in As carcinogenesis. Therefore, we discuss the significance of keratinocyte‐specific effects of As on skin carcinogenesis. As is known to be cytotoxic because of its chemical reactions with the thiol group of proteins and its ability to generate free radicals during cellular metabolism. However, at relatively low concentrations, As shows stimulatory effects, such as cell activation and proliferation. Because long‐term As exposure is associated with skin carcinogenesis, we reviewed the mechanisms of As‐induced keratinocyte dysfunctions by means of time‐ and concentration‐dependent cellular responses. The mechanisms and interactions underlying As‐induced keratinocyte dysfunctions not only provide a model of As in skin carcinogenesis process but also help in understanding the regulation of As carcinogenesis in other internal organs.
NFIB is a potential target for estrogen receptor‐negative breast cancers
Authors: Moon Hyeong-Gon , Hwang Ki-Tae , Kim Jeong-Ah , Kim Hee Sung , Lee Min-Joo , Jung Eun-Mi , Ko Eunyoung , Han Wonshik , Noh Dong-Young
Published: August 2011

Background

The association between nuclear factor I/B (NFIB) gene and triple negative breast cancer has been previously suggested.

Methods

We investigated the relationship between NFIB mRNA and protein expression and molecular subtypes of breast cancer as well as the effect of NFIB silencing on the proliferation and apoptosis of breast cancer cells. Also, the clinical importance of NFIB expression was investigated in 163 breast cancer patients.

Results

By using 20 frozen human breast cancer tissues and various breast cancer cell lines, we observed a significant high level of NFIB mRNA level in triple negative breast cancer. NFIB protein was upregulated in ER negative breast cancer tissues but the expression level was similar between HER2 subtype and triple negative subtype. The clinical significance of NFIB was further examined in a tissue microarray from 163 invasive breast cancer patients, and the immunohistochemistry results showed a significant association between NFIB expression and nuclear grade, ER, and HER2 expression status. NFIB positive tumors were more likely to have high nuclear grade, ER negativity and HER2 over‐expression. HCC1954 cells transfected with siRNA against NFIB showed a significant reduction in cell proliferation and increase in apoptotic signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Our results show a potential role of NFIB as a novel target in ER negative breast cancers.
A review of Elliott trapping methods for small mammals in Australia.
Authors: Tasker EM , Dickman CR
Published: August 2011

Much of the knowledge of small mammal ecology in Australia has come from Elliott trapping,
however the results of these studies are influenced by the way in which trapping is carried out.
We review some of the major factors affecting the results of Elliott trapping: trap spacing, local
placement, presence of odours on the trap (from conspecifics, similar species, predators, and
humans), and duration of trapping. Most factors clearly influence trapping results and should be
routinely considered, and preferably controlled, in future studies which use Elliott traps.
Differentiating Western Australian Nyctophilus (Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) echolocation calls.
Authors: Bullen RD , McKenzie NL
Published: August 2011

The ultrasound calls of the six species of Nyctophilus bat in Western Australia can be
differentiated using power spectral analysis. Their search-mode call sequences show
distinctive trends of variation in peak-frequency (Fpeak) values call-to-call. These differences
are too subtle to be separated in amplitude-time domain with the processing tools currently
available. The call-to-call variations in Fpeak through time can be characterised from the call
sequence recordings using Fourier analysis if care is taken to select genuine search-mode
sequences. These variations can then be used to correctly identify the species emitting the
call.
Long-term changes in the mammal fauna of logged, coastal forests near Bega, New South Wales, detected by analysis of dog and fox scats.
Authors: Lunney D , Matthews A , Triggs B
Published: August 2011

In 1996, a study was undertaken to identify the mammals in Mumbulla State Forest near Bega
on the south coast of New South Wales through the collection of dog and fox scats in the area. A
total of 1121 scats was collected. The objective was to assess the changes in mammal fauna
since 1981 when the first detailed analysis of predator scats was made after the forest was first
logged for woodchips and sawlogs under the Eden woodchip agreement. The most notable
change between the two surveys was a decrease in the canid diet of large mammals such as
swamp wallaby and red-necked wallaby and the rabbit, and an increase of smaller mammals such
as bush rat, long-nosed potoroo, common ringtail possum and dusky antechinus. The regrowth
of the forest following logging, particularly of the understorey, increased available habitat for
some species, such as the long-nosed potoroo. The shift to the smaller species was most
pronounced in the diet of foxes. The decrease of rabbit in the canid diet was consistent with its
relative abundance on adjacent farmland. The extensive 1996 scat collection also provided an
opportunity to examine predator movements. Non-poisoned baits containing coloured markers
were placed along the forest roads to determine how far dogs and foxes range between feeding
and defecation. Of the marked scats collected in the forest, 67 % were found within 2 km and
94 % were found within 5 km of the bait station. These data will assist future researchers to find
the locations of target species by narrowing the potential area to be searched. The primary
finding of this study, namely that the mammal composition of the forest changed markedly
between the two surveys, highlights the need to sample a forest through time to reveal the
forest?s full ecological picture. It can be predicted that the mammal fauna composition will
change again following the next logging cycle.
A new species of long-eared bat (Nyctophilus: Vespertilionidae) from New Caledonia.
Authors: Parnaby HE
Published: August 2011

A new species of Nyctophilus is described on the basis of three specimens from the hinterland
of Noum�a, New Caledonia. Comparisons are made with a large series of the most similar
species, N. gouldi and N. bifax from eastern Australia, from which it differs on external, cranial,
dental and penile morphology. The new species most resembles N. gouldi and its affinities
appear to lie within the Australian fauna. An IUCN threat category of ?Vulnerable? is
suggested due to a localised distribution in threatened high elevation rainforest.
Dive times for foraging dugongs in the Northern Territory.
Authors: Whiting SD
Published: August 2011

THERE are few published studies of dive times of
dugongs (Dugong dugon). Direct observations are
problematic because D. dugon are shy and difficult to
observe in the wild from boats without creating
observer effects. Time Depth Recorders (TDR?s) can
record dive and surface times during dive behaviour,
but there are no published data as yet for D. dugon
using this technology. Although studies on dive times
using Time Depth Recorders (TDR?s) result in larger
data sets, their results are difficult to relate to
particular behaviours such as foraging. This paper
provides submergence and surface interval times for
D. dugon obtained by direct observations in Darwin
Harbour. Direct observations, although time
consuming, can produce important information
related to the ecology of D. dugon.
Activity area and day-time tree use of the black-footed tree-rat Mesembriomys gouldii.
Authors: Griffiths AD , Koenig J , Carrol F , Price O
Published: August 2011

HABITAT management of wildlife is a fundamental
component of most management programs aimed at
the conservation of wildlife. Understanding the
collection of resources and conditions necessary for a
population's occupancy of a particular environment is
considered vital (Garshelis 2000). Information on the
amount of area required by an individual and areas
used as refuges from predation or denning are two
useful parameters. For the small mammal fauna of
Australia's tropical savannas, the collection of this
information has focused on associations with
vegetation communities and trapping studies (Friend
and Taylor 1985; Kerle 1985; Friend 1987;
Braithwaite 1989; Kerle 1998).
Group Characteristics, Site Fidelity And Seasonal Abundance Of Bottlenosed Dolphins (Tursiops Aduncus) In Jervis Bay And Port Stephens, South-Eastern Australia
Authors: Möller LM , Allen SJ , Harcourt RG
Published: August 2011

Social organisation and abundance of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) in Jervis Bay (JB)
and Port Stephens (PS), NSW, were investigated through behavioural/photo-identification
surveys between May 1997 and April 2000. Mean group size was significantly larger at JB
(12.3 � 0.87, n =167) compared to PS (6.8 � 0.37, n = 218). At both sites, groups were
significantly larger when calves were present. Group size varied with activity, being smallest
when feeding and largest when socialising. While mean group size of feeding dolphins did not
vary between sites, travelling and socialising groups were significantly larger in JB. Site fidelity
was assigned based on sighting rates and presence across seasons. Sighting rates varied
significantly between areas, but the proportion of dolphins categorised as residents, occasional
visitors and transients did not. Minimum abundance by season, based on mark-resighting of
recognisable individuals, ranged from 61 � 3.2 to 108 � 7.1 in JB and 143 � 8.1 to 160 � 8.1 in
PS. Differences in group size at the two sites may relate to social factors and/or human impacts,
while differences in abundance may be associated with habitat size and complexity. The lack of
dolphin matches between areas suggests that they represent distinct populations.
Commercial Swim Programs With Dwarf Minke Whales On The Northern Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Some Characteristics Of The Encounters With Management Implications
Authors: Birtles RA , Arnold PW , Dunstan A
Published: August 2011

Commercial swim programs with the dwarf minke whale Balaenoptera ?acutorostrata occur
seasonally (primarily June - July) within the Cairns and Far Northern sections of the Great
Barrier Reef (GBR) Marine Park. Observations of whale-swimmer interactions over five
seasons indicate that initiation and maintenance of contact with vessel and swimmers is largely
voluntary and thus the swim programs can comply with the general principle that the whales
control the initiation and nature of interactions. Preliminary data on within-season (13 whales in
1999) and between year (four whales from 1999 in 2000, 2001) re-sightings within the study
area suggest that any impacts from swim programs may affect a particular subset of the
population. The extent of possible cumulative effects can be assessed by continuation of the
existing photo and video-ID program. No signs of aggression have been documented but some
behaviour (bubble blasts, jaw gape) could be considered as threat display. More detailed
analysis of behaviour is necessary to monitor such behaviour. A risk analysis is given for
aspects of the interactions, with suggested research to monitor such risks.
Establishing A Mark-Recapture Program For Dugongs In Moreton Bay, South-East Queensland
Authors: Lanyon JM , Sneath HL , Kirkwood JM , Slade RW
Published: August 2011

This paper reports the commencement of the first mark-recapture program for a dugong
(Dugong dugon) population. Moreton Bay, south-east Queensland supported a D. dugon
population of more than 800 individuals in 1996 and is close to an urban centre, Brisbane.
Several features of this population make a mark-recapture program feasible: a large resident
population concentrated over a small and predictable area, a relatively clear water habitat,
animals regularly exposed to boating traffic, and an efficient capture method. Fifty-four D.
dugon were captured using the ?rodeo? method and tagged. Tags applied included a long-term
dorsal PIT tag, a titanium turtle tag, fluke notch and temporary paint stick mark. For each D.
dugon, body length, anal girth and gender were recorded. D. dugon were biopsied for genetic
(microsatellite) analysis. Faecal samples were obtained for reproductive hormone assays. This
program has the potential to yield information on trends in population size and distribution,
population dynamics, mating strategies, social structure and general health of the population.
This is the first season of a long-term project.
Pattern Of Immigration Of New Zealand Sea Lions
Phocarctos Hookeri To Otago, New Zealand: Implications
For Management
Authors: Mcconkey SD , Heinrich S , Lalas C , Mcconnell H , Mcnally N
Published: August 2011

The present management strategy for New Zealand sea lions Phocarctos hookeri assumes that
kills in a squid trawl fishery around Auckland Islands, the species population base, have
prevented an increase in abundance of sea lions. This strategy also assumes that emigration will
be initiated as the population reaches carrying capacity, and that emigration rates will be
density dependent. We used the combination of photographic identification of individuals and
diagnostic features of age classes to estimate immigration rates of P. hookeri to Otago, South
Island, New Zealand. Most immigrants were males = 2 years old at arrival, and included
animals tagged as pups at Auckland Islands. Estimates for total numbers of immigrants to
Otago from four consecutive cohorts, 1991/92 - 1994/95, varied three-fold through a period of
constant annual pup production at Auckland Islands. The greatest influx was from the 1993/94
cohort, a breeding season that predated the enforcement of early closures of the squid fishery.
We suggest published records from the Auckland Islands indicate that this population is
already at carrying capacity. If so, then factors other than, or in addition to, pup production and
fishery mortality have an impact on emigration rates.
Impact Of Colonial Sealing On Seal Stocks Around
Australia, New Zealand And Subantarctic Islands
Between 150 And 170 Degrees East
Authors: Ling JK
Published: August 2011

Details of southern elephant seal oil and fur seal and sea lion skin cargoes have been extracted
from a large number of secondary sources dealing with Australian and New Zealand maritime
history, which in turn referred to numerous primary sources of information. The data were
collated and analysed for ten areas in the south-west Pacific region and published recently in
two separate larger works. This review is a synthesis and analysis of the impact of the colonial
sealing industry on seal stocks in the region, based on those papers, with some minor revisions
and reference to works by other authors. Colonial sealing lasted from the late 18th to the mid-
19th century and was followed by sporadic hunting until the late 1940s. Southern elephant seals
(Mirounga leonina) were hunted for their oil; and Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus
doriferus), New Zealand fur seals (Arctocephalus forsteri), Australian sea lions (Neophoca
cinerea) and New Zealand sea lions (Phocarctos hookeri) were targeted for their skins and
some oil. At least 1,081 tons of elephant seal oil were shipped from King Is. between 1802 and
1819, while 8,380 tons were shipped from Macquarie Is. between 1810 and 1919. More than
1.4 million skins of both species of fur seals were harvested between 1792 and 1949, but only
4,000 Neophoca and 5,700 Phocarctos pelts are recorded as having been shipped by 1840. The
Antipodes Islands yielded more than a quarter of the total fur seal skin harvest, and New
Zealand and southern Australia each delivered a quarter of the total. Current numbers of the
two species of fur seals combined are about a tenth of the crudely estimated size (1.5 million)
of the original population. The exploited fur seals and sea lions were probably the same species
as occur today at the original sealing localities, apart from Macquarie Is. where the identity of
the exploited fur seals remains in doubt. There is some evidence that Maoris and Australian
Aborigines hunted seals in pre-European times, resulting in reduced ranges and depleted stocks
that were exploited later by colonial sealers.
Humans and the Southern Elephant Seal Mirounga leonina
Authors: Burton H , Hoff J van den
Published: August 2011

Southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina) populations appear remarkably unaffected by
interactions with humans. They are very tolerant of close human presence whilst they are ashore
for pupping, mating and moulting. Their behaviour in close proximity to helicopter operations
suggests disturbance of moulting male M. leonina is minimal. There is no evidence that M.
leonina have been affected by persistent organic pollutants; and few M. leonina have been
reported as having been injured or killed by interactions with fishery gear. The number of prey
species common to their diet and commercial fisheries in the Southern Ocean are few; but one
commercial squid species, Martialia hyadesi, accounted for as much as 94% of the biomass
consumed by M. leonina. Two harvested commercial squid species (Mar. hyadesi and
Todarodes filippovae) were found in the stomachs of M. leonina; and some other squid species
(Alluroteuthis antarcticus, Brachioteuthis spp., Gonatus antarcticus, Histeoteuthis spp.,
Kondokovia longimana, Moroteuthis ingens, Mor. knipovitchi, Pholidoteuthis boschmani and
Psychroteuthis glacialis) have potential as commercial catch too. There is cause for concern if a
future directed fishery for any of these species escalates or the by-catch of Mar. hyadesi and T.
filippovae in the Illex and Nototodarus fisheries increase. There is also concern if fin-fish
fisheries expand and take more of those species already taken by both M. leonina and fisheries.
These species are benthic (Notothenia squamifrons), benthopelagic (Dissostichus eleginoides
and Champsocephalus gunnari) and, perhaps most importantly, the pelagic myctophid species
(e.g., Electrona carlsbergi).
Habitat use and density of numbats (Myrmecobius fasciatus) reintroduced in an area of mallee vegetation, New South Wales
Authors: Vieira E.M. , Finlayson G.R. , Dickman C.R.
Published: August 2011

The distribution of the numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus) has been dramatically reduced since European settlement, with remnant populations now occurring naturally only in the south west of Western Australia. In recent years a number of reintroductions have led to the reestablishment of this species in parts of its former range. In this study we investigated the density and habitat use of the numbat within a 4,000 ha feral - free site on Scotia Sanctuary in western New South Wales. Numbats had been reintroduced to this site in 1999 and 2000. During transect sampling 500 km were driven and 10 numbats were observed. An additional 14 sightings were made incidentally during the survey period. We estimated the density of numbats at Scotia to be 1.24 individuals/100 ha (SE = 0.56). Numbats were located randomly throughout the four major vegetation communities within the reintroduction site. At a finer scale, numbats selected for areas with less spinifex and less bare ground, although visibility using this sampling technique in areas with less spinifex cover may be increased. This study provides information on the habitats used and selected for by numbats at a local scale, and suggests that the species is capable of re-inhabiting areas within its former range where essential resources such as food and shelter are still available at adequate levels, and introduced predators are absent. This, in turn, has implications for future management decisions about how and where to reintroduce this species to other parts of its former range.
The New Guinea singing dog: its status and scientific importance
Authors: Koler-Matznick J, , Yates B.C. , Bulmer S. , Brisbin I..L. Jr.
Published: August 2011

Time is running out for the opportunity to study the New Guinea singing dog (Canis hallstromi Troughton 1957) to determine if they are a unique taxon. These wild canids are being threatened with hybridization from increasing numbers of imported domestic dogs (Canis familiaris). The controversies over their taxonomy and its status in New Guinea exist because they live in areas infrequently visited even by local residents. Thus, evidence concerning its origins, behaviour, anatomy, and phylogenetics is inadequate. The morphological, physiological, and DNA data we currently have available are from the few remaining captive representatives held in zoos and private facilities. The singing dog may be an important evolutionary link to humankind's most ancient domesticated mammal, C. familiaris, and to the Australian dingo (Canis dingo). We refute the allegation that the singing dog originated as a feral modern C. familiaris, or as hybrids of C. dingo with C. familiaris, by recounting their known history within the cultural context of New Guinea. We point out some of their distinctive characteristics, including their unique estrus cycles, and outline their potential scientific merit. We conclude by offering an alternative taxonomic hypothesis.
Platypus Venom: a Review
Authors: Whittington Camilla , Belov Katherine
Published: August 2011

Platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) and other monotremes occupy an important position as an early offshoot from the evolutionary lineage leading from reptiles to mammals. One of the most intriguing characteristics of these mammals is that the males produce venom during the mating season. O. anatinus venom contains defensin-like peptide, C-type natriuretic peptide and nerve growth factor, as well as other unidentified fractions. These components of O. anatinus venom display similarity to components of the venom of other species such as sea anemones, snakes and shrews. Here we review available literature on O. anatinus venom and venom in other species. Further research into O. anatinus venom will offer some insight into the evolution and functions of venom components.
Bait uptake by feral cats on French Island, Victoria.
Authors: Johnston M.J. , Shaw M.J. , Robley A. , Schedvin N.K.
Published: August 2011

Management of feral cat (Felis catus) populations is currently limited by the lack of a control technique that is cost-effective, target-specific and suitable for broad-scale application. This paper describes two non-toxic bait acceptance trials undertaken on French Island in Western Port, Victoria in south?eastern Australia. Moist meat baits were injected with the marker Rhodamine B (RB), and surface distributed along the existing road and firebreak network. Subsequent trapping of feral cats facilitated collection of whiskers, which were analysed using ultraviolet fluorescence microscopy for the presence of RB marking. Twenty-four and forty-seven cats respectively were recovered in each trial with fifty per cent of these individuals found to have consumed at least one bait in either trial. Results are discussed with reference to the development of a felid-specific toxicant baiting technique.
Water turnover and the northern range of the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus).
Authors: Clifton I.D. , Ellis W.A.H. , Melzer A. , Tucker G.
Published: August 2011

Water turnover for koalas is positively correlated with the moisture content of selected trees suggesting that browse choice was driven by water requirements in summer but energy demands in winter. We compared the distribution of the koala to relative humidity and found that the bioregional delineation of the koala?s range corresponds closely to regions experiencing an average 9am relative humidity of less than 80% in February. This indicates that the northern coastal distribution of the koala may be limited by respiratory evaporative water loss as a cooling mechanism.
Observations on the oestrous cycle and breeding season of the Chestnut Dunnart Sminthopsis archeri, a little known dasyurid marsupial.
Authors: Woolley P.A.
Published: August 2011

Only 31 specimens of Sminthopsis archeri have been studied. These have come from Papua New Guinea and Cape York, Australia. Females are seasonally polyoestrous. Oestrous cycles in captive females are characterized by an increase body weight until just before ovulation. Changes in pouch condition are described. Eight nipples are usual.
The effect of poly-l-lysine and urine volume upon the attachment to microscope slides of sperm from the urine of Numbats (Myrmecobius fasciatus) and Dibblers (Parantechinus apicalis).
Authors: Matson P. , Kappelle W. , Lambert C. , Power V. , Lawrence C. , Robertson H.
Published: August 2011

Sperm in numbat and dibbler urine can be seen reliably in wet preparations but adhesion of sperm to the microscope slide during fixation and staining has not been relable. Slide coated with poly-L-lysine show 20% more sperm remaining compared to uncoated slides.
Association of parma wallabies (Macropus parma) with sedge swamps in Gibraltar Range National Park.
Authors: Vernes K. , Cooper T.
Published: August 2011

Parma wallabies (Macropus parma) have a patchy distribution on the coast and ranges of central and northern New South Wales from Goulburn northward to the Queensland border. In Gibraltar Range National Park they are found in dry sclerophyll forest with a heath understorey, a departure from their apparent preference for wet forest types. Distance to swamp was by far the best correlate of M. parma distribution.
Erratum to: The influence of NaCl salinity and hypoxia on aspects of growth in Trifolium species
Authors: Rogers M. E. , Colmer T. D , Frost K. , Henry D. , Cornwall D. , Hulm E. , Hughes S. , Snowball R. , Nichols P. G. H. , Craig A. D.
Published: August 2011

The effects of salinity and hypoxia on growth, nutritive value, and ion relations were evaluated in 38 species of Trifolium and 3 check legume species (Trifolium fragiferum, Trifolium michelianum, and Medicago sativa) under glasshouse conditions, with the aim of identifying species that may be suitable for saline and/or waterlogged conditions. In the first set of experiments, plants were grown hydroponically at four NaCl concentrations (0, 40, 80, and 160�mm NaCl) and harvested after exposure to these treatments for 4 weeks. NaCl concentrations up to 160�mM reduced dry matter production in most species; however, there were differences in salt tolerance among species, with T. argutum, T. diffusum, T. hybridum, and T. ornithopodioides performing well under the saline conditions (dry matter production was reduced by less than 20%). Concentrations of Na+ and Cl- in the shoots increased with increasing salinity levels, and species again differed in their capacity to limit the uptake of these ions. Dry matter digestibility at 0�mm ranged from 49.8% (T. palaestinum) to 74.0% (T. vesiculosum) and decreased with increasing NaCl concentrations. A second set of experiments evaluated the tolerance of Trifolium species to hypoxic conditions in the glasshouse. Shoot growth, and to a lesser extent root growth, were reduced in all Trifolium species when plants were exposed to stagnant, non-aerated conditions for 28 days, but T. michelianum, T. resupinatum, T. squamosum, T. nigrescens, T. ornithopodioides, T. salmoneum, and T. fragiferum were the least affected species. All species acclimated to the oxygen-depleted conditions by increasing the gas-filled porosity in the roots. This study has provided information that will assist in the identification of forage species for saline and/or waterlogged areas.