bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suitability of simplified methods for monthly and twice-monthly milk recording, and new prediction factors for the alternate a.m./p.m. method in dairy ewes under a low-input production system
Authors: Othmane M Houcine , Trabelsi Latifa
Published: July 2007

Sicilo-Sarde dairy flock test-day data were analysed (1) to check predicting ability of ten milk recording procedures, based on information from a single monthly or bimonthly milking and (2) to look for the best pair of factors for predicting daily milk yield from either morning or afternoon milkings for the alternate testing method (AT). Prior to analyses, data were adjusted for variation factors with known significant effect. Number of test-day observations was 4755 from 458 lactations of 288 ewes. Losses of precision associated with simplified methods were evaluated by comparing estimated lactation yields with those observed both in a reference plan, where the two daily milkings were recorded at 2-weekly intervals and in the official A4 milk recording (monthly recording of the two daily milkings). Ranking of simplified plans based on their accuracy was still the same under either monthly or twice-monthly frequency. Estimates of lactation yields showed more lack of precision when the usual monthly designs were compared with twice-monthly sampling of both a.m. and p.m. milkings. Losses of precision ranged from 5·1%, for the A4 plan, to 14·6%. Thus, milk production should be estimated from both mikings when their measurement is economically feasible. When only one milking is weighed, designs based on—or beginning with—the a.m. milking were more accurate. There was no evidence of improvement in sampling accuracy by adjustment for milking interval or production level. For practical and economic reasons, the design alternating a.m. and p.m. milkings, without adjustment, is suggested for ovine milk recording. In such a case, new factors for estimating daily production from the measured milking (1·7, 2·3) should be used rather than the factors currently in use (2, 2) because they improved the loss of precision by more than 13% in a monthly recording system.
Knowledge Production, Framing and Criminal Justice Reform in Latin America
Authors: MACAULAY FIONA
Published: July 2007

This commentary surveys some of the trends and gaps in current research on criminal justice reform in Latin America – with a focus on Brazil, and on two specific areas: police and prison/penal reform. It explores two principal themes: the uneven and thin production of knowledge about criminal justice issues; and the impact this has on policy reforms and on the ways in which these are framed and interpreted in terms of their relative success and failure. Overall it argues that we still know very little about criminal justice institutions and the actors within them. We also need many more finely-grained analyses of the dynamics of reform efforts and of the policy environments in which these take place in order to understand how and why reform initiatives are often derailed or subverted, and, more rarely, flourish and can be embedded and replicated.
Inherent limits on the identification of a neural basis for general intelligence
Authors: Blair Clancy
Published: July 2007

The target article provides a thoughtful review and synthesis of studies examining the neural basis of cognitive abilities associated with intelligence test performance. In its attempt to present a new or generative theory of the neural basis for intelligence, however, the review faces specific limits to its theoretical model that relate to processes of development and the role of automaticity in cognition.
Overall intelligence and localized brain damage
Authors: Zaidel Dahlia W.
Published: July 2007

Overall mean performance on intelligence tests by brain-damaged patients with focal lesions can be misleading in regard to localization of intelligence. The widely used WAIS has many subtests that together recruit spatially distant neural “centers,” but individually the subtests reveal localized functions. Moreover, there are kinds of intelligence that defy the localizationist approach inferred from brain damage.
Bromidechinus, a new Ordovician echinozoan (Echinodermata), and its bearing on the early history of echinoids
Authors: Smith Andrew B. , Savill Jeremy J.
Published: July 2007

A new genus and species of primitive echinozoan, Bromidechinus rimaporus, is described from the Upper Ordovician of Oklahoma, USA. This has a unique plate arrangement. There is a single perradial series of imperforate plates bounded on either side by a column of perforate ambulacral plates. A double column of interambulacral plates separates ambulacral zones. The sparse record of Ordovician echinozoans is reviewed and cladistic analysis suggests that Bromidechinus represents a lineage that diverged prior to the split between bothriocidarids and main-line echinoids. This leads to a revised interpretation of the earliest stages of morphological evolution of echinoids.
The first Silurian chasmataspid, Loganamaraspis dunlopi gen. et sp. nov. (Chelicerata: Chasmataspidida) from Lesmahagow, Scotland, and its implications for eurypterid phylogeny
Authors: Tetlie O. Erik , Braddy Simon J.
Published: July 2007

A new chasmataspid (Chelicerata: Chasmataspidida) is described from the Early Silurian (Late Llandovery–Early Wenlock) of Lesmahagow, Scotland, as Loganamaraspis dunlopi gen. et sp. nov. It is distinguished from related forms by the low tapering ratio of the postabdomen, pediform sixth prosomal appendage and a heart-shaped metastoma. Additionally, a genital operculum with a genital appendage is preserved. The recognisable morphology of L. dunlopi gen. et sp. nov. bridges some of the gap between the Ordovician Chasmataspididae and the Devonian Diploaspididae. Traces of the gut are reported for the first time from a chasmataspid. Chasmataspids are regarded as sister group to the eurypterids: an anterior opercular plate anterior to the genital appendage in L. dunlopi gen. et sp. nov. is regarded as homologous to the anterior opercular plate of the three-segmented genital operculae of Dolichopterus and Stylonurina. This is considered a plesiomorphic character within Eurypterida, whilst the two-segmented genital operculum (with deltoid plates) of Eurypterina is considered apomorphic.
Near‐field propagation of tsunamis from megathrust earthquakes
Authors: McCloskey John , Antonioli Andrea , Piatanesi Alessio , Sieh Kerry , Steacy Sandy , Nalbant Suleyman S. , Cocco Massimo , Giunchi Carlo , Huang Jian Dong , Dunlop Paul
Published: July 2007

We investigate controls on tsunami generation and propagation in the near‐field of great megathrust earthquakes using a series of numerical simulations of subduction and tsunamigenesis on the Sumatran forearc. The Sunda megathrust here is advanced in its seismic cycle and may be ready for another great earthquake. We calculate the seafloor displacements and tsunami wave heights for about 100 complex earthquake ruptures whose synthesis was informed by reference to geodetic and stress accumulation studies. Remarkably, results show that, for any near‐field location: (1) the timing of tsunami inundation is independent of slip‐distribution on the earthquake or even of its magnitude, and (2) the maximum wave height is directly proportional to the vertical coseismic displacement experienced at that location. Both observations are explained by the dominance of long wavelength crustal flexure in near‐field tsunamigenesis. The results show, for the first time, that a single estimate of vertical coseismic displacement might provide a reliable short‐term forecast of the maximum height of tsunami waves.
Functional aspects of titanosaur osteoderms
Authors: Marinho Thiago
Published: July 2007

Though titanosaur osteoderms are not common findings, these elements are recorded widely in Gondwana and part of Laurasia. This assembly known by the date offers few resources for studies on the ecology of this group of dinosaurs. Recently, some eggs bearing titanosaur embryos with preserved skin, from Patagonia, Argentina, may shed some light on the function and disposition pattern of these dermic bones. Some of the skin patches associated with the titanosaur embryos show two distinct patterns of tuberosities: a longitudinal row and rosettes, both composed of closely attached tuberosities. These tuberosities do not seem to be ossified, but this might be due to the ontogenetic stage of the titanosaurs. Here we propose that these tuberosities might have been ossified in later ontogenetic stages, and then turning into real osteoderms providing physical defence for the juvenile titanosaurs. Amongst the remains of large titanosaurs like Mendozasaurus neguyelap some osteoderms were recovered, but it is contrasting small to the animal when compared to other dinosaurs. These bones would not provide real defensive advantage to an adult titanosaur as they are small and also have a very spongy internal structure. This apparent fragility also may be the reason that few titanosaur osteoderms have been preserved. In comparison, the tuberosity of a young titanosaur is much larger than an adult osteoderm and its body armor would be much more effective against small predators like notosuchian crocodyliforms and small theropods. And if the titanosaur osteoderms are originated from the embryo’s tuberosities, the disposition of these elements in an adult animal would be very distant to each other. The calcium reserve may be considered as functional for an adult titanosaur though.
Geminal model chemistry. IV. Variational and size consistent pure spin states
Authors: Rassolov Vitaly A. , Xu Feng
Published: July 2007

We present a computationally inexpensive method that yields ground state wave functions of pure spin symmetry. The method is variational and rigorously size consistent, free from adjustable parameters, and has a favorable scaling with system size. It is based on the recently introduced partially spin restricted geminal wave functions with limited spin contamination. Computations of a bond breaking, a transition metal compound, and a symmetric hydrogen cluster confirm the properties of this method.
Combinatorial preparation and characterization of thin-film multilayer electro-optical devices
Authors: Neuber Christian , Bäte Markus , Thelakkat Mukundan , Schmidt Hans-Werner , Hänsel Helmut , Zettl Heiko , Krausch Georg
Published: July 2007

In this article we present a setup for the combinatorial vapor deposition of thin-film multilayer devices as well as methods for the fast and efficient analytic screening of the libraries obtained. The preparation setup is based on a commercially available evaporation chamber equipped with various evaporation sources for both organic and metallic materials. The combinatorial approach is realized by the combination of a rotation stage for the substrate, a five-mask sampler, and an additional mask whose position can be deliberately varied along one axis during the evaporation process. The latter is used to evaporate linear as well as step gradients by continuous or stepwise movement of a shutter mask. The mask sampler allows to define the sectors of the library and to evaporate more complex structures, e.g., an electrode layout. Finally, the simultaneous evaporation of two or more materials enables us to produce layers of varying composition ratio in general and doped materials, in particular. For the control of the evaporation process we have developed an automation software, which is particularly helpful for complex library designs and which grants excellent repeatability of experiments. Efficient and fast characterization of the obtained libraries is realized by (i) a purely optical setup and (ii) an electro-optical setup. (i) The UV/vis reader FLASHScan® 530 permits to map out the UV/vis absorbance or fluorescence of the whole library. The UV/vis absorbance is primarily used to determine layer thicknesses and to confirm thickness uniformity across larger regions. The fluorescence measurements are used to determine the composition of layers containing fluorescent dyes. (ii) For a detailed short- and long-term electro-optical analysis we have developed an automated measurement system, which allows the characterization of 8×8 optoelectronic devices and to study their degradation behavior. Both solar cells and organic light-emitting diodes can be tested. Finally, we have developed a data analysis software to extract characteristic values from the huge amount of data and with this facilitate the finding of systematic dependencies.
Room-temperature slot microplasma in atmospheric pressure air between cylindrical electrodes with a nanoporous alumina dielectric
Authors: Koo I. G. , Cho J. H. , Choi M. Y. , Lee W. M.
Published: July 2007

Slot microplasma in low temperature, atmospheric pressure air is developed for applications in surface, gas, or biomedical treatments. Dielectric barrier discharge between two parallel aluminum (Al) rods covered with nanoporous alumina films, ∼60μm thick and mean pore diameters of ∼40nm, is driven by 20kHz ac power. The glow microplasma is stable and spatially uniform, using 2–10W, in the gap of 100–500μm between the rods of 3mm diameter and 5cm long. This type of slot discharge operational in ambient temperature atmospheric pressure air can provide large-scale nonthermal plasma for any applications requiring continuous low temperature treatments.
16S rRNA gene microbial analysis of the skin of fleece rot resistant and susceptible sheep
Authors: Dixon T. J. , Mortimer S. I. , Norris B. J.
Published: July 2007

Fleece rot is a bacterial dermatitis that follows prolonged wetting of the sheep’s skin, and a major pre-disposing condition to body strike in the Australian Merino. Several studies have examined bacterial load of the fleece in relation to fleece rot using traditional culture-based techniques focussing on only a few bacterial species. We examined the natural bacterial diversity of the healthy sheep skin and changes that occurred in fleece-rot resistant and susceptible animals during fleece rot development. Presented is a preliminary molecular genetic analysis of the bacterial ecology of the sheep skin. Eight 16S rRNA gene libraries were constructed from susceptible and resistant sheep both before and after onset of the disease following induction by simulated rainfall. Approximately 75% of the sequences obtained in this study have not been previously identified in fleece-rot studies. Four operational taxonomic units (OTU; groups of >97% sequence similarity) of major interest were present on susceptible animals and absent from resistant animals. Data on these OTU expand current knowledge of bacteria involved in inflammation and wounding of sheep skin tissue, and provide direction for future research that may lead to new treatment options for fleece rot and body strike.
Water stress and reduced fruit size in micro-irrigated pear trees under deficit partial rootzone drying
Authors: O'Connell Mark G. , Goodwin Ian
Published: July 2007

Crop water relations, vegetative and reproductive growth, and soil water status were studied during 2 seasons to determine the effectiveness of partial rootzone drying (PRD) in a mature micro-irrigated pear orchard in the Goulburn Valley, Australia. PRD treatments were 50% (PRD50) and 100% (PRD100) of predicted crop water requirement (ETc) applied on one side of the tree alternated on a 14-day cycle compared with a Control treatment, which received 100% of ETc irrigated on both sides of the tree. Irrigation was applied daily by micro-jets to replace ETc estimated using reference crop evapotranspiration (ETo) and a FAO-56 crop coefficient of 1.15 adjusted for tree size. The PRD50 regime applied 174–250 mm for the season v. 347–470 mm for both the Control and PRD100 treatments. Irrigation maintained a well watered rootzone under the emitter compared with the drying profiles of the alternated wet/dry irrigated zones of the PRD treatments. There was no significant benefit of PRD100 compared with the Control irrigation regime. Similar vegetative growth (canopy radiation interception), reproductive growth (fruit growth rate, final fruit size, yield), fruit quality (total soluble solids, flesh firmness), and crop water relations (midday leaf conductance, midday leaf and stem water potential) were measured between the Control and PRD100. Trees under the PRD50 regime showed symptoms of severe water stress, that being greater fruit drop, reduced fruit size, lower yield, reduced leaf conductance, and lower leaf and stem water potential. The 50% water saving afforded by PRD50 led to a yield penalty of 16–28% compared with the Control and PRD100. PRD50 fruit failed to meet commercial cannery requirements due to poor fruit size. We conclude from an agronomic basis that deficit PRD irrigation management is not recommended for micro-irrigated pear orchards on fine-textured soils in the Goulburn Valley, Australia.
Securing the 'Civilised' Enclaves: Gated Communities and the Moral Geographies of Exclusion in (Post-)socialist Shanghai
Authors: Pow Choon-Piew
Published: July 2007

Moving beyond conventional accounts of gated communities typically devoted to issues on housing choices and urban segregation, this paper offers a nuanced perspective by demonstrating how the moral ordering of urban spaces is fundamental in shaping territoriality and exclusion in Shanghai's gated communities. Specifically, the paper argues how territoriality in Shanghai's gated communities is invariably bound up in a moral distinction between the 'urban(e)' and 'rural' that revolves around the moral discourses on civilised modernity. Such a moral order, as the paper contends, parallels the logic of hegemony such that class and social exclusion are refigured and depoliticised while the defence of luxury and privileges are simply recast as questions of differing civilised lifestyle and morality.
Drug-Induced Thrombosis—Experimental, Clinical, and Mechanistic Considerations
Authors: Ramot Yuval , Nyska Abraham
Published: July 2007

Awareness of the dangers of drug-induced thrombosis has recently been heightened and led to demand for improved testing methodology. For example, reports indicating that some selective inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) increase the risk of myocardial infarction and atherothrombotic events caused the withdrawal of rofecoxib from global markets and the issuance of warnings concerning the usage of other COX-2 inhibitors. Drugs may exert a prothrombotic state by a variety of mechanisms–those affecting the vessel wall, the blood flow, and/or different blood constituents. Our review serves as an update to that of Gerhard Zbinden published in 1976 by presenting recently acquired data that more fully elucidate the different mechanisms by which drugs are believed to induce thrombogenic effects and discussing new methods used to detect these without losing sight of the classical pathology of thrombosis. We offer correlations between experimental findings and clinical data and conclude that, because drugs may induce a prothrombotic state by a variety of mechanisms, they should be tested for these using appropriate experimental methods and animal models.
The Labour Party's policy for manufacturing revival — complacency or revolution?
Authors: Coulson Andrew
Published: July 2007

The Labour Party, February 1991: Building a World Class Economy: Modern Manufacturing Strength
Analysing the Ethiopian revolution
Authors: Hiwet Addis
Published: July 2007

Ethiopia has in fact experienced a thorough‐going revolution —a fact often ignored or denied by the Left internationally, presumably because it was not made by an organised mass movement and because of the fact of military rule. It is indeed a ‘revolution’ in that it represents an irreversible change from the absolutist state; it has involved a fundamental social transformation, chiefly with respect to the rural relations of production, and has thereby created a vastly expanded internal market of petty producers. These revolutionary outcomes are not to be denied because of the nature of the regime, which is indeed repressive, and incapable of solving the two basic issues now facing the revolution: the nationalities issue and political democracy. But it must be recognised that the regime and form of the state are themselves results of the revolutionary upheavals but also the inheritor of the ideas and policies of the Ethiopian Left. There is an urgent need now for a mature, reconstituted Left in Ethiopia but such a reconstitution will require that the various elements on the Left all take a long, critical look at their own history.
Reviews
Authors: Olukoshi Adebayo
Published: July 2007

The Development of Capitalism in Northern Nigeriaby Robert W. Shenton (London: James Currey, 1986). 169pp; £7.95 paperback.
Book reviews
Authors: Bujra Janet , Tickner Vincent
Published: July 2007

What Women do in Wartime: Gender and Conflict in Africa (1988), edited by M Turshen & M Twagiramariya, London: Zed Books.

Structural Adjustment and Women Informal Sector Traders in Harare, Zimbabwe (1998),by Rodrick Mupedziswa and Perpetua Gumbo, Research Report no. 106, ISBN 91–7106–435–4. Private Sector Response to Agricultural Marketing Liberalisation in Zambia (1998), by Dennis K. Chiwele, Pumulo Muyatwa‐Sipula and Henriette Kalinda, Research Report no. 107, Nordiska Afrikain‐stitutet, Uppsala, ISBN 91–7106–436–2 (both obtainable from Africa Book Centre, 38 King St., London WC2 8JT).
Drinking among Teenagers in Australia: Research Findings, Problems and Prospects*
Authors: Wilks Jeffrey
Published: July 2007

Abstract:Studies of Australian teenagers' drinking patterns, beliefs and attitudes toward the use of beverage alcohol are reviewed and discussed. In a culture where alcohol use is widespread and acceptable, young Australians are exposed to drinking as a normative behaviour early in their lives. Most learn to drink without associated problems. There are, however, increasing numbers of young people still at school who report drinking on a daily basis and who regularly become intoxicated. In attempting to promote responsible drinking behaviour, researchers and educators must be aware of strong sociocultural supports for heavy drinking. Greater understanding of cultural norms and expectations about drinking is considered essential for the design and implementation of programs aimed at preventing teenage alcohol abuse.
Monitoring service delivery in a drug and alcohol regional program
Authors: Carvolth Russell J. , Wilks Jeffrey
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Monitoring is an important component in the planning, development and evaluation of service delivery in the drug and alcohol field. This paper describes a preliminary study of professional activities undertaken by staff in a Queensland regional program. A modified WHO daily log book was used to record activities for a one month period. Some difficulties experienced with this measure are discussed and directions for future monitoring presented.
Methadone: magic or madness?
Authors: Mandelberg Tanya
Published: July 2007

Abstract: The area of methadone treatment is suffused with ambivalence, conflicts and entanglements of various kinds. This paper attempts to explore some of these as they are experienced by the general community, the Methadone Maintenance Unit and the compulsive drug abuser. The methadone, the linking thread around which these conflicts are mobilised, is discussed in terms of its symbolic embodiment of the overt and covert wishes, fantasies and ambivalences of these three protagonists. Awareness of these issues has implications for program and clinical management.
Nerve Globins in Invertebrates
Authors: Geuens E. , Dewilde S. , Hoogewijs D. , Pesce A. , Nienhaus K. , Nienhaus GU , Olson J. , Vanfleteren J. , Bolognesi M. , Moens L.
Published: July 2007

The expression of nerve hemoglobins in invertebrates is a well‐established fact, but this occurrence is uncommon. In the species where nerve globins occur, they probably function as an oxygen store for sustaining activity of the nerves during anoxic conditions. Although invertebrate nerve globins are functionally similar with respect to O2 affinity, they are by no means uniform in structure and can differ in size, cellular localization and heme‐coordination. The best‐studied nerve globin is the mini‐globin of Cerebratulus lacteus, which belongs to a class of globins containing the polar TyrB10/GlnE7 pair in the distal pocket. The amide and phenol side chains normally cause low rates of O2 dissociation and ultra‐high O2 affinity by forming strong hydrogen bonds with bound ligands. Cerebratulus hemoglobin, however, has a moderate O2 affinity, due to the presence of a third polar amino‐acid in its active site, ThrE11, which inhibits hydrogen bonding to bound oxygen by the B10 tyrosine side chain.
IUBMB Life, 56: 653‐656, 2004
Seeing while moving: Measuring the online influence of action on perception
Authors: Zwickel Jan , Grosjean Marc , Prinz Wolfgang
Published: July 2007

The online influence of movement production on motion perception was investigated. Participants were asked to move one of their hands in a certain direction while monitoring an independent stimulus motion. The stimulus motion unpredictably deviated in a direction that was either compatible or incompatible with the concurrent movement. Participants’ task was to make a speeded response as soon as they detected the deviation. A reversed compatibility effect was obtained: Reaction times were slower under compatible conditions—that is, when motion deviations and movements went in the same direction. This reversal of a commonly observed facilitatory effect can be attributed to the concurrent nature of the perception–action task and to the fact that what was produced was functionally unrelated to what was perceived. Moreover, by employing an online measure, it was possible to minimize the contribution of short-term memory processes, which has potentially confounded the interpretation of related effects.
Identification of a Common Subnuclear Localization Signal
Authors: Mekhail Karim , Rivero-Lopez Luis , Al-Masri Ahmad , Brandon Caroline , Khacho Mireille , Lee Stephen
Published: July 2007

Proteins share peptidic sequences, such as a nuclear localization signal (NLS), which guide them to particular membrane-bound compartments. Similarities have also been observed within different classes of signals that target proteins to membrane-less subnuclear compartments. Common localization signals affect spatial and temporal subcellular organization and are thought to allow the coordinated response of different molecular networks to a given signaling cue. Here we identify a higher-order and predictive code, {[RR(I/L)X3r](n, n≥1)+[L(φ/N)(V/L)](n,n>1)}, that establishes high-affinity interactions between a group of proteins and the nucleolus in response to a specific signal. This position-independent code is referred to as a nucleolar detention signal regulated by H+ (NoDSH+) and the class of proteins includes the cIAP2 apoptotic regulator, VHL ubiquitylation factor, HSC70 heat shock protein and RNF8 transcription regulator. By identifying a common subnuclear targeting consensus sequence, our work reveals rules governing the dynamics of subnuclear organization and ascribes new modes of regulation to several proteins with diverse steady-state distributions and dynamic properties.
Mutations that mimic phosphorylation of the HIV‐1 matrix protein do not perturb the myristyl switch
Authors: Saad Jamil S. , Kim Andrew , Ghanam Ruba H. , Dalton Amanda K. , Vogt Volker M. , Wu Zhibin , Lu Wuyuan , Summers Michael F.
Published: July 2007

Recent studies indicate that the matrix domain (MA) of the HIV‐1 Gag polyprotein directs Gag to the plasma membrane for virus assembly via a phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2)–dependent myristyl switch mechanism. MA also has been reported to direct nuclear trafficking via nuclear import and export functions, and some studies suggest that nuclear targeting may be regulated by MA phosphorylation (although this proposal remains controversial). We have prepared and studied a series of HIV‐1 MA mutants containing Ser‐to‐Asp substitutions designed to mimic phosphorylation, including substitutions in regions of the protein involved in protein–protein interactions and known to influence the myristyl switch (S6D, S9D, S67D, S72D, S6D/S9D, and S67D/S72D). We were particularly interested in substitutions at residue 6, since conservative mutations adjacent to this site strongly perturb the myristyl switch equilibrium, and this site had not been genetically tested due to its involvement in post‐translational myristylation. Our studies reveal that none of these mutations, including S6D, influences the PIP2‐ or concentration‐dependent myristyl switch equilibrium. In addition, all of the mutants bind liposomes with affinities that are only slightly reduced in comparison with the native protein. In contrast, the myristylated mutants bind liposomes with substantially greater affinity than that of the native, unmyristylated protein. These findings support the hypothesis that phosphorylation is unlikely to significantly influence membrane‐mediated intracellular trafficking.
Haematological and biochemical reference intervals for farmed channel catfish
Authors: Tavares‐Dias M. , Moraes F. R.
Published: July 2007

The reference intervals for biochemical variables and red blood cell indices of healthy intensively bred channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus were determined. The blood variables were determined using standardized clinical methods. The reference intervals (25th and 75th percentiles) were established using a non‐parametric method. Reference intervals for plasma glucose, serum total protein, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride concentration, primary and secondary red blood cell indices were established. The haematological and biochemical reference intervals established may allow important clinical decisions about channel catfish.
Characteristics of brown trout males influence growth and survival of their offspring
Authors: Petersson E. , Järvi T.
Published: July 2007

Half‐sib groups of juvenile brown troutSalmo trutta(0+ years) having fathers with different characteristics were compared in several respects. Two kinds of experiments were performed, aquarium observations in the laboratory and stocking in a semi‐natural stream. It was found in the aquarium experiments that the offspring of fathers with larger adipose fins were more active and were probably better at defending territories. Offspring of males chosen by females had higher growth rate. The feeding rate was higher in juveniles having a less aggressive father or a father that was chosen by the mother. The stream experiments showed that offspring of dominant males had higher growth rates, and that offspring of less aggressive fathers had higher survival. Thus, characteristics of the males (fathers) influences the quality of the offspring, and there seem to be benefits for the females both to choose among potential mates and to spawn with the most dominant male. As these male characteristics are never regarded during the process of artificial breeding in hatcheries, the results indicate a basis for divergence between hatchery and wild populations.
Interpopulation comparison of growth patterns of 14 fish species on Faroe Bank: are all fishes on the bank fast‐growing?
Authors: Magnussen E.
Published: July 2007

Individual growth and sexual maturity of 14 common fish species on Faroe Bank have been investigated and compared with published data from 36 geographical areas. To examine the importance of the Faroe Bank environment on fish growth, a discrimination between resident and migratory species was made. The present study shows that individuals of the resident species on Faroe Bank have higher growth performance and are, on average, 36% larger when they reach sexual maturity than individuals of the same age in other populations. For the migratory species, the difference is only 6%. Abundance of food and high temperatures are probably the main reasons for the high individual growth.
The phylogeny and evolution of Figitidae (Hymenoptera: Cynipoidea)
Authors: Buffington Matthew L. , Nylander Johan A. A. , Heraty John M.
Published: July 2007

A phylogeny of the Figitidae (Hymenoptera: Cynipoidea) is presented based on combined analysis of molecular (28S‐D2 and D3, COI and 18S‐E17‐35), morphological and life‐history data. Data are analyzed by parsimony and Bayesian inference methods. Taxon sampling was held at a premium, and the resulting matrix contained 168 terminal taxa representing eight of nine subfamilies (Pycnostigminae not included) and all major subgroups of each subfamily. Alignment of the 28S D2 + D3 gene fragment based on a structural model resulted in the most defendable and least conflicting alignment tested.Melanips, previously classified in Figitinae, was consistently found to be the sister group of the Aspicerinae;Euceroptres, historically classified in Thrasorinae, frequently rendered that subfamily paraphyletic in these analyses. The general evolutionary trend is for early figitids to be parasitoids of gall inducing insects, with later host shifts occurring to exposed hosts associated with aphids.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Feasibility, safety and cost‐effectiveness of transjugular liver biopsy following major surgery in patients with haemophilia
Authors: DETRAIT M. , POTHEN D. , BRENARD R. , STARKEL P. , HERMANS C.
Published: July 2007

Summary.  Prior to the introduction of virally inactivated clotting factor concentrates, the majority of patients with haemophilia became infected with the hepatitis C virus. Although transjugular liver biopsy can be safely performed in these patients, the procedure is associated with a significant financial burden mainly related to replacement therapy with clotting factor. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of transjugular liver biopsy in patients with haemophilia substituted with clotting factor concentrates for major surgical procedures. Over the last 5 years, transjugular liver biopsy was performed in nine patients with haemophilia within 1–10 days after orthopaedic (7), thoracic (1) or abdominal surgery (1). All patients had abnormal liver function tests and persistent hepatitis C viraemia. At the time of the biopsy, patients received recombinant factor VIII delivered by dose‐adjusted continuous infusion through a central catheter inserted preoperatively in the left internal jugular (n = 8) or in an ante‐cubital vein (n = 1). Before the biopsy, basal FVIII levels were raised to 80–100% by a bolus infusion and maintained above 80% for 24 h. The biopsy was informative in all cases. Only one patient developed an episode of supraventricular dysrhythmia. No bleeding or infectious complications were observed. When compared with elective liver biopsy performed outside the postsurgical period, the cost‐savings per biopsy were 19 875 ± 2660 €. This study shows that intensive replacement therapy required by surgical procedures provides a safe and cost‐effective opportunity for transjugular liver biopsy in patients with haemophilia and active hepatitis C.
An exploration of patients’ memories and experiences of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a multiplace chamber
Authors: Chalmers Andy , Mitchell Chris , Rosenthal Mark , Elliott Doug
Published: July 2007

Aims and objectives.  To examine patients’ memories and experiences of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a multiplace chamber of a hyperbaric medicine unit in Australia.

Background.  There is minimal literature available documenting patients’ feelings and memories of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, particularly in a multiplace chamber.

Design.  Exploratory.

Methods.  A convenience sample of seven non‐emergency patients was interviewed separately at the conclusion of their multi‐session therapy. A semi‐structured approach elicited in‐depth information regarding their experiences and memories of the hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Interviews were 30–45 minutes long and audiotaped for transcription and analysis. Field notes were also used to note non‐verbal cues and other observations not evident from the audio material. Data collection ceased when data saturation was evident from the interviews. Interview transcripts were examined using a content analysis approach, with textual coding and thematic development.

Results.  Issues derived from the data included: the uncertainty of the treatment; the noise and cold of the chamber; the discomfort of the mask or hood; and the boredom. Participant responses to the therapy related to previous noxious experiences and the individual's personality.

Conclusions.  This information was used to examine ways of reducing any negative feelings and experiences associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, thus improving the service provided to patients.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Identification of these stressors and related issues may also enable subsequent development of a risk‐stratification instrument to predict patients who do not complete treatment.
Aquaporin‐mediated changes in hydraulic conductivity of deep tree roots accessed via caves
Authors: MCELRONE ANDREW J. , BICHLER JUSTIN , POCKMAN WILLIAM T. , ADDINGTON ROBERT N. , LINDER C. RANDAL , JACKSON ROBERT B.
Published: July 2007

Although deep roots can contribute substantially to whole‐tree water use, little is known about deep root functioning because of limited access for in situ measurements. We used a cave system on the Edwards Plateau of central Texas to investigate the physiology of water transport in roots at 18–20 m depth for two common tree species, Quercus fusiformis and Bumelia lanuginosa. Using sap flow and water potential measurements on deep roots, we found that calculated root hydraulic conductivity (RHC) fluctuated diurnally for both species and decreased under shading for B. lanuginosa. To assess whether these dynamic changes in RHC were regulated during initial water absorption by fine roots, we used an ultra‐low flowmeter and hydroxyl radical inhibition to measure in situ fine root hydraulic conductivity (FRHC) and aquaporin contribution to FRHC (AQPC), respectively. During the summer, FRHC and AQPC were found to cycle diurnally in both species, with peaks corresponding to the period of highest transpirational demand at midday. During whole‐tree shade treatments, B. lanuginosa FRHC ceased diurnal cycling and decreased by 75 and 35% at midday and midnight, respectively, while AQPC decreased by 41 and 30% during both time periods. A controlled growth‐chamber study using hydroponically grown saplings confirmed daily cycling and shade‐induced reductions in FRHC and AQPC. Winter measurements showed that the evergreen Q. fusiformis maintained high FRHC and AQPC throughout the year, while the deciduous B. lanuginosa ceased diurnal cycling and exhibited its lowest annual values for both parameters in winter. Adjustments in FRHC and AQPC to changing canopy water demands may help the trees maintain the use of reliable water resources from depth and contribute to the success of these species in this semi‐arid environment.
Abnormal spirometry in children with persistent allergic rhinitis due to mite sensitization: The benefit of nasal corticosteroids
Authors: Kessel Aharon , Halloun Hadeel , Bamberger Ellen , Kugelman Amir , Toubi Elias
Published: July 2007

Inflammatory processes affecting nasal and bronchial mucosa are similar in nature. The purpose of this study was to examine whether children with perennial allergic rhinitis, without underlying asthma, have impaired pulmonary function. We also investigated whether nasal corticosteroids and loratidine would improve the pulmonary function tests of those children with impaired lung function. Fifty subjects with moderate/severe persistent allergic rhinitis due to exclusively dust mite sensitization and no past medical history suggestive of asthma were assessed. The control group consisted of 26 matched healthy subjects. Subjects with airway obstruction, as detected by forced expiratory volume/1 s (FEV1) or forced expiratory flow from 25/% to 75% (FEF25−75) values <80% of those predicted, were treated with loratidine, once a day for 10 days, and daily nasal budesonide for 3 months. We found that 11 of 50 patients (22%) with perennial allergic rhinitis had impaired pulmonary function (FEF25−75 values <80%), compared to 1/26 (3.8%) of the control group (p ≤ 0.05). Reversibility was observed in 9/11 (81.8%), mean 24.7% ± 10.3%. Within 3 months of treatment, 7/10 had FEF25−75 > 80% of their predicted values as well as significant improvements in their FEV1 (p = 0.04), and FEV1/FVC (p = 0.04). We conclude that a substantial proportion of children with perennial allergic rhinitis have diminished FEF 25−75 values and reversible airway obstruction. Nasal corticosteroids improve the pulmonary function tests of these children with impaired lung function.
Worldwide time trends for symptoms of rhinitis and conjunctivitis: Phase III of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood
Authors: Björkstén Bengt , Clayton Tadd , Ellwood Philippa , Stewart Alistair , Strachan David , Phase III Study Group The ISAAC
Published: July 2007

In Phase III of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) time trends in the prevalence of rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms were analysed. Cross‐sectional questionnaire surveys with identical protocols and questionnaires were completed a mean of 7 yr apart in two age groups comprising 498,083 children. In the 13‐ to 14‐yr age group 106 centres in 56 countries participated, and in the 6‐ to 7‐yr age group 66 centres in 37 countries participated. A slight worldwide increase in rhinoconjunctivitis prevalence was observed, but the variations were large among the centres and there was no consistent regional pattern. Prevalence increases in the older children exceeding 1% per year were recorded in 13 centres, including 3 of 9 centres in Africa, 2 of 15 in Asia‐Pacific, 1 of 8 in India, 3 of 15 in Latin America, 3 of 9 in Eastern Europe and 1 of 34 in Western and Northern Europe. Decreasing rhinoconjunctivititis prevalence of similar magnitude was only seen in four centres. The changes were less pronounced in the 6‐ to 7‐yr‐old children and only in one centre did any change exceed 1% per year. The decrease in highest prevalence rates in ISAAC Phase I suggests that the prevalence has peaked in those regions. An increase was recorded in several centres, mostly in low and mid‐income countries. The increases were more pronounced in the older age group, suggesting that environmental influences on the development of allergy may not be limited to early childhood.
Precision in sex allocation is influenced by mate choice in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: FULLER B. A. , MOUSSEAU T. A.
Published: July 2007

Theory predicts that a 1 : 1 sex ratio is favoured in the absence of countervailing selection pressures. In an experiment with Drosophila melanogaster, we found significantly greater variation in the offspring sex ratios of freely mated flies than would be expected by the binomial distribution. In a surprise result, control flies given no mate choice exhibited significant under‐dispersal in their sex ratio variation, possibly from sperm limitation. Both treatments, however, produced populations with a 1 : 1 sex ratio. This supports the hypothesis that sexually antagonistic selection for reproductive success in sons, and fecundity in daughters, may overcome selection for an equal sex ratio. Such precision in sex allocation may allow for the maintenance of genetic variation underlying trade‐offs between male and female reproductive success.
Intact Plant, Callus and Field Grain Yield Responses of Tepary Bean to Drought
Authors: Mohamed M. F. , Tawfik A. A.
Published: July 2007

In a field trial involving four tepary lines (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray), NE#8A and NE#19 produced higher grain yield than NE#5 and NE#7 under both well watered and drought conditions. However, NE#8A is considered more resistant than NE#19 in terms of drought sensitivity index. Greenhouse investigations on intact plants indicated no differences among the four lines in leaf and stem dry mass, and leaf area. Root depth did not strictly differentiate lower‐yielding from higher‐yielding lines. In contrast to lower‐yielding lines, however, plants of higher‐yielding ones allocated greater dry matter (DM) in roots in response to imposed water stress. Distinctly, NE#19 had the greatest root : shoot (R : S) while NE#8A characterized by high net photosynthesis. Both NE#8A and NE#19 showed reduced leaf area : root dry mass ratio, stomata conductance and transpiration rate. Consequently, these two lines showed no significant changes in leaf relative water content while photosynthetic water‐use‐efficiency increased in response to water stress. Calli derived from leaf and root tissues of higher‐yielding lines exhibited low initial osmotic potential (ψs). These calli did not show alterations in ψs, DM% and relative growth rate (RGR) when subjected to water stress. Although leaf‐ and root‐derived calli of lower‐yielding lines exhibited osmotic adjustment, they suffered water stress in terms of elevated DM and reduced RGR. Overall, results suggest that dehydration‐avoidance mechanisms conditioned by increased root mass and stomata resistance accompanied with low initial cellular ψs sustained high grain yield of tepary under limited water supply.
VERTICAL CONTRACTING WHEN COMPETITION FOR ORDERS PRECEDES PROCUREMENT*
Authors: GANS JOSHUA S.
Published: July 2007

This paper reverses the standard order between input supply negotiations and downstream competition and assumes that competition for orders takes place prior to procurement of inputs in a vertical chain. It is found that oligopolistically competitive outcomes will result despite the presence of an upstream monopolist. Here, vertical integration is a means by which the monopolist can leverage its market power downstream to the detriment of consumers. However, it does so, not by foreclosing on independent downstream firms, but by softening the competitive behaviour of its own integrated units.
Standing out and fitting in: a report on a support group for individuals with Asperger syndrome using a personal account
Authors: MacLeod Andrea , Johnston Paula
Published: July 2007

In this article, Andrea MacLeod, lecturer in autism studies at the University of Birmingham, and Paula Johnston, a woman with Asperger syndrome who now focuses on writing and speaking about her condition, consider the function of specialist group interventions for individuals with Asperger syndrome. These authors report on one model ‐ a discussion and support group aimed primarily at young adults. The self‐report of a former participant, a woman with Asperger syndrome, is used as a case study to illustrate issues and processes. Her report suggests that peer support and peer learning should be recognised as significant goals of such interventions and that interventions should be planned to respond to the needs that follow diagnosis. The authors suggest that clinical and educational services need to work together to ensure that children and young people have immediate access to such support models, which should be viewed as preventative therapies. This article provides evidence that first‐hand accounts can offer new insights into how such interventions are experienced by those involved. Andrea MacLeod and Paula Johnston argue that future research in this area should seek to employ participatory methodologies.
Children's Ability to Impute Inferentially Based Knowledge
Authors: Rai Roshan , Mitchell Peter
Published: July 2007

Do young children appreciate the importance of access to premises when judging what another person knows? In Experiment 1, 5‐year‐olds (N=31) were sensitive to another person's access to premises when predicting that person's ability to point to a target after eliminating alternatives in a set of 3 cartoon characters. Experiment 2 replicated the finding when 5‐ to 6‐year‐olds (N=102) judged who the other person thought the target was, and whether the other person knew who the target was. Experiment 3 demonstrated that children aged 5–7 years (N=107) more successfully imputed inference by elimination than syllogistical inferential knowledge. Findings suggest that an early understanding of inference by elimination offers a route into understanding that people can sometimes gain knowledge without direct perceptual access.