bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
322. PROTEOMIC AND FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF HUMAN SPERM DETERGENT RESISTANT MEMBRANES
Authors: Anderson A. L. , Mitchell L. , McLaughlin E. A. , O'Bryan M. K. , Aitken R. J. , Nixon B.
Published: November 2010

Mammalian spermatozoa attain the ability to fertilize an oocyte as they negotiate the female reproductive tract. This acquisition of functional competence is preceded by an intricate cascade of biochemical and functional changes collectively known as ‘capacitation’. Among the universal correlates of the capacitation process is a remarkable remodeling of the lipid and protein architecture of the sperm plasma membrane. While the fundamental mechanisms that underpin this dynamic reorganization remain enigmatic, emerging evidence has raised the prospect that it may be coordinated, at least in part, by specialized membrane microdomains, or rafts. In the studies described herein we have demonstrated that human spermatozoa express recognized markers of membrane rafts. Further, upon depletion of cellular cholesterol through either physiological (capacitation) or pharmacological (methyl-β-cyclodextrin) intervention, these membrane rafts appear to undergo a polarized redistribution to the peri-acrosomal region sperm head. The polarized targeting of membrane rafts to the sperm head encourages speculation that they represent platforms for the organization of proteins involved in sperm-oocyte interactions. Support for this notion rests with the demonstration that membrane rafts isolated on the basis of their biochemical composition in the form of detergent resistant membranes (DRMs), possess the ability to adhere to homologous zona pellucida. Furthermore a comprehensive proteomic analysis of the DRMs identified a number of proteins known for their affinity for the zona pellucida in addition to other candidates putatively involved in the mediation of downstream binding and/or fusion with the oolemma. Collectively these data afford novel insights into the sub-cellular localization and potential functions of membrane rafts in human spermatozoa.
327. EMU SEMINAL PLASMA PROTEINS AND BETWEEN-MALE VARIATION
Authors: Tawang A. , Malecki I. A. , Cummins J. , Martin G. B.
Published: November 2010

Seminal plasma proteins may have a few functions in semen but their role in the emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) has not been studied. We used ejaculates of six males collected during the peak of the breeding season to determine the protein make up of their seminal plasma. Following collection and sperm analysis semen was centrifuged to separate the sperm from seminal plasma. The concentration of proteins in seminal plasma was estimated and 20 µg/mL was found optimal for one-dimensional electrophoresis. Samples were separated with SDS-PAGE, using 12.5% polyacrylamide gel and stained with Coomassie Brilliant Blue. Molecular weights and density of individual bands were estimated by 1D Total Lab gel analysis software. We identified 12 protein bands although they were not present in every male. One male was found to contain 12, one 10, three males had 9 bands and one had only 8 bands. Protein bands were in the range from 135 kDa to 7 kDa. Four bands (108–91 kDa, 67–78, 29–36 and 7 kDa) were found in all males. The 10 kDa band was present in all but one male. The intensity of those bands was similar between males except for one male with 29–36 kDa band that had less intensity. Further investigation is under way to further characterize those proteins and their relationship to ejaculate quality.
328. CLAUDIN-8 IS EXPRESSED IN BOVINE TESTIS GERM CELLS
Authors: Rookledge M. , Colgrave M. , Stockwell S. , Schmoelzl S.
Published: November 2010

Germline stem cells in the testis allow for the continued production of spermatozoa throughout a male’s life. These cells are capable of self-renewal and have the ability to colonise testis tissue and give rise to spermatocytes after transplantation. Identification of germ cells and other cell types within testis tissue is important for increasing understanding of germ cell biology. Work in this lab is focused on the bovine testis, and we use both germ and non-germ cell markers for cell identification and germ cell enrichment. Such markers are also used for monitoring physiological and pathological changes in testis tissue after treatments such as irradiation. At present cell type markers for germ cells are limited, particularly in livestock species. This study has therefore investigated candidate marker genes for expression in testis cells. Here, we present quantitative gene expression data for Claudin-8 (CLDN8) in testis tissue. Claudin-8 is a membrane protein involved in the formation of tight junctions, such as are formed by germ cells in the testis. We used qRT-PCR to examine the expression of CLDN8 and other candidate genes in germ cell enriched and non-enriched testis cell fractions. Our qRT-PCR analysis shows that CLDN8 is preferentially expressed in germ cell enriched fractions. Testis cell fractions were also analysed for expression of established germ cell markers such as PLZF (ZBTB16) and VASA (DDX4), as well as for Sertoli cell marker GATA4. Our analysis shows a positive correlation between expression of CLDN8 and established germ cell markers, and a negative correlation between expression of CLDN8 and established Sertoli cells markers.
329. IS THERE VARIATION IN THE LEVEL OF INPUT OF KISSPEPTIN TERMINALS ONTO GnRH NEURONS ACROSS THE EQUINE OESTROUS CYCLE?
Authors: Scott C. J. , Setterfield C. A. , Caraty A. , Norman S. T.
Published: November 2010

Kisspeptin (KP) plays a key role in reproductive function including the regulation of gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinising hormone (LH) secretion in many species but little is known about its role in the mare. In this study, we examined the location of KP-producing neurons in the brain of the mare, their potential interactions with GnRH neurons, and temporal changes in their expression across the oestrous cycle. Mares (n = 3/group) were killed at oestrus (just prior to ovulation), mid-dioestrus, and late dioestrus and the head was perfusion fixed with paraformaldehyde, and hypothalamus collected. Coronal sections (40 μm) were used for dual-label immuno-stained for KP & GnRH. The majority of KP-immunoreactive (-ir) neurons were located in the arcuate nucleus/median eminence (especially mid and caudal regions), and periventricular nucleus. There was a trend (P = 0.09) towards increasing numbers of KP-ir neurons across the cycle. GnRH-ir neurons, located primarily in the arcuate nucleus (especially mid arcuate), as well as the preoptic area, did not change in number across the cycle. Numerous interactions between KP and GnRH neurons were observed, primarily in the arcuate nucleus; KP fibres interacting with GnRH cell bodies, fibre-fibre interactions between KP and GnRH, and GnRH fibres interacting with KP cell bodies. Overall we found KP inputs to 32% of GnRH-ir cells, but the number of these interactions did not vary across the oestrous cycle. This study has confirmed the reciprocal innervation between KP & GnRH neurons in the mare. Although we did not detect variation in the degree across the oestrous cycle this may reflect the sample size issues inherent to equine research.
330. SEASONAL EFFECTS ON OVARIAN DYNAMICS AND OOCYTE DEVELOPMENTAL COMPETENCE IN SOWS EXPERIENCING EARLY-PREGNANCY LOSS
Authors: Bertoldo M. , Holyoake P. K. , Evans G. , Grupen C. G.
Published: November 2010

Seasonal infertility in the domestic sow has a considerable economic impact on the pig industry. Reduced oocyte quality and increased wean-to-service interval (WSI) have been observed during the seasonal infertility period (1, 2). The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between season, WSI, ovarian dynamics and oocyte quality in sows experiencing early-pregnancy loss. Sows that experienced early-pregnancy loss were grouped according to their previous WSI (≤ 6 or > 6 d) and the presence (CL) or absence (NCL) of corpora lutea on their ovaries at the time of slaughter. Groups were WSI≤6d/CL, WSI≤6d/NCL, WSI>6d/CL and WSI>6d/NCL. Cumulus–oocyte complexes were recovered from antral follicles (3–8 mm) and subjected to parthenogenetic activation following in vitro maturation in summer (n = 742) and late-spring (n = 594). Data were analysed using a generalised linear mixed-model in GenStat release 10. The mean number of CL/sow was greater (11.57 ± 3.30) in late-spring compared to summer (9.26 ± 0.99; P < 0.05). There were no effects of WSI on oocyte developmental potential. A greater proportion of oocytes developed to the blastocyst stage in summer (55.94 ± 5.17%) compared to late-spring (31.18 ± 6.38%; P < 0.05). Blastocysts derived from oocytes collected in summer had a greater number of cells (46.60 ± 1.17) than blastocysts derived from oocytes collected in spring (43.2 ± 0.95; P < 0.05). Blastocysts derived from oocytes of CL ovaries had more cells (47.08 ± 1.13) than those derived from oocytes of NCL ovaries (42.91 ± 0.75; P < 0.05). It appears that sows experiencing early-pregnancy loss have inherently poor oocyte quality. The greater developmental potential of oocytes in summer suggests a proportion of sows culled for early-pregnancy loss in summer have good oocyte quality, but fail to conceive and/or initiate pregnancy due to other summer-autumn related factors, such as heat stress.
(1) Bertoldo et al., Reproduction, Fertility and Development, in press.(2) Bertoldo et al., 2009. Theriogenolgy, 72: 393–400.
331. INVESTIGATING THE ROLE OF CYCLIN A2 DURING OOCYTE MEIOSIS
Authors: Jennings P. C. , Jones K. T.
Published: November 2010

Aneuploidy is often derived from chromosomal segregation errors in oocytes, leading to Down Syndrome and early embryo loss. Thus it is important to understand the molecular control of female meiosis. Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), particular those contributing to Maturation Promoting Factor (MPF, or CDK1) activity, play key roles in regulating meiosis. While cyclin B1 is classically regarded as the regulatory component of MPF, cyclin A2 can also bind and activate CDK1, and in mammalian somatic cells it is known to promote both G1/S and G2/M transitions. There is an absolute requirement for cyclin A2 during development and differentiation as its deficiency results in early embryonic lethality. As such, cyclin A2 has not been extensively studied, particularly as to its role in meiosis. To examine the role cyclin A2 plays during mammalian female meiosis, we carried out knockdown experiments. Microinjection into mouse oocytes of cyclin A2 siRNA induced a ~70% knockdown. Cyclin A2 knockdown did not inhibit germinal vesicle breakdown but did act to delay it. Extrusion of the first polar body was significantly reduced (P = 0.002) in comparison to non-injected controls and those injected with a negative control siRNA. Furthermore, microinjection of cyclin A2 can stimulate entry into meiosis. Thus it seems possible that cyclin A2/CDK can exhibit MPF activity. In conclusion, our data suggest that cyclin A2 can regulate meiotic entry in oocytes and also plays an important role in successful passage through the first meiotic division.
332. GYCOMIC ANALYSES OF THE GRANULOSA AND THECA OF BOVINE OVARIAN FOLLICLES
Authors: Hatzirodos N. , Nigro J. , Vashi A. V. , Irving-Rodgers H. F. , Caterson B. , Sullivan T. R. , Ramshaw J. A. , Werkmeister J. A. , Rodgers R. J.
Published: November 2010

Development of ovarian follicles involves changes in cell function and remodelling of the follicular wall. Remodelling necessitates changes in the extracellular matrix, including proteoglycans (PGs). PGs contain glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) covalently bound to a protein core. The length of GAG chains in PGs and the degree and pattern of sulphation differs between cell types and change as cells alter their phenotype. PGs that have been identified in follicles include the chondroitin sulphate (CS) PG, versican and inter-a trypsin inhibitor, and the heparan sulphate (HS) PGs, perlecan and type XVIII collagen. The latter two are found in focimatrix, the follicular and the thecal subendothelial basal laminas. To examine GAGs composition in follicles, bovine antral follicles of various sizes were collected. Follicles were dissected and a biopsy taken for histological classification of health. Theca layers and granulosa cells were collected separately and analysed by fluorophore-assisted carbohydrate (FACE) analysis of GAGs following digestion to disaccharides with chondroitinase ABC, hyaluronidase, heparinase, and heparitinases I and II. Four non GAG sugars and 12 different GAG derived disaccharides were identified and quantitated on a per DNA basis. Healthy versus atretic follicles for each cell type were compared and correlation analyses were also undertaken. Immunohistochemistry using CS specific antibodies was also conducted. There was no effect of size on the GAG content for either granulosa or theca cells. The 4- and 6- sulphated CS sugars were the most abundant following digestion in all tissues. Theca had higher levels than granulosa cells of HS derived disaccharides and also of un- or 4- or 6- N-sulphated CS derived disaccharides. Some sulphated CS moieties localised uniquely to the stroma surrounding blood vessels in the theca externa. Atretic follicles had lower amounts of disaccharides derived from HS in both granulosa and thecal cells, suggesting that heparanase may be activated upon atresia.
333. HETEROGENEITY OF GENE EXPRESSION IN BOVINE SMALL FOLLICLES
Authors: Hatzirodos N. , Irving-Rodgers H. F. , Rodgers R. J.
Published: November 2010

Small antral follicles <5 mm in bovine ovaries undergo one of two fates: further growth and selection to become the dominant follicle for ovulation, or atresia. Atresia can occur before, during or after selection. As follicle grow past >5 mm there is upregulation in expression of focimatrix genes and later upregulation of the LH receptor and steroidogenic enzymes, especially aromatase, in the granulosa cells. For follicles at sizes >5 mm entering atresia the granulosa cells are the first in the follicle to die. Thus expression of genes in granulosa cells is critical to the fate of the follicle. To examine granulosa cells of small follicles we collected bovine ovaries and dissected follicles, removed part of the follicle wall for subsequent classification of health or atresia, and harvested the remaining granulosa cells for RNA isolation. Follicles examined included small follicles (<5 mm), both healthy (n = 10) and atretic (n =5), and healthy large follicles (>10 mm, n = 4). RNA was hybridized to Affymetrix GeneChip Bovine Genome Arrays and the results were analysed using Partek Genomics Suite software. The number of genes which were 2 fold differentially regulated between large and small follicles by Benjamini Hochberg post hoc test (False Discovery Rate, P < 0.05) was 2408 and between healthy and atretic small follicles was 4931. The coefficient of variation (CV; SD/mean × 100) for the expression level of each gene for each group was calculated. A gene frequency distribution indicated greater heterogeneity in expression levels in small follicles in comparison to large follicles. Furthermore, the greatest variability in genes in small follicles includes those that are either up or down regulated due to atresia or growth. We therefore conclude that variability in small follicles is a consequence of alternative fates that small follicle can undergo.
334. PROGESTERONE PRODUCTION FROM GRANULOSA CELLS OF SOWS IS ENHANCED EQUALLY BY OMEGA-3 DERIVED PROSTAGLANDIN E3 AND OMEGA-6 DERIVED PROSTAGLANDIN E2
Authors: Smits R. , Armstrong D. T. , Ritter L. , Mitchell M. , Nottle M. B.
Published: November 2010

Caughey et al (2005) reported that prostaglandins derived from omega 3 sources eicsapentaenoic acid (EPA C20:5) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA C22:6) have different properties to those derived from the preferred substrate, arachidonic acid (ARA C20:4; n-6). Armstrong et al (2006) demonstrated that PGE2 increased progesterone when porcine granulosa cells were cultured in vitro with hCG. We hypothesized that PGE3 which is derived from EPA will produce a lower steroidogenic response as progesterone from isolated granulosa cells collected from pre-ovulatory sow ovaries. Ovaries were collected from slaughtered sows and follicles between 3–8 mm were aspirated and through a series of wash steps in HTCM (Hepes TCM 199). Mid-sized granulosa cells were recovered in a solution of BTCM (bicarbonate TCM) containing IGF-1. 0.5 × 106 cells/mL were cultured in 250 µL of Control (BTCM only), PGE2 or PGE3 (320 ng/mL in BTCM, Cayman Chemical Co.) treatments with IGF1 at 25 ng/mL. Cultures were incubated for 22 h at 38oC. Cultures were centrifuged and the supernatant was analysed in duplicate for progesterone. Data was analysed by Univariate GLM ANOVA. There was no significant difference between PGE2 and PGE3 treatments, however the main effect of PGE significantly increased progesterone production relative to the control (P = 0.017). Granulosa cells cultured with omega 3 derived PGE3 did not produce significantly lower progesterone levels than those with PGE2. We conclude that both PGE2 and PGE3 promote a steroidogenic response in cultured porcine granulosa cells.
(1) Armstrong DT, Formosa, ER, Amato F, Schultz SJ. 2006. Prostaglandin E2 up-regulates luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) expression and enhances steroidogenic responses of follicle cells.(2) Caughey GE, James MJ, Cleland LG. 2005. Prostaglandins and leukotrienes. pp. 42–49. In ‘Encyclopaedia of Human Nutrition. Vol. 4’. (Eds B Caballero, L Allen, A Prentice).
335. X-LINKED INHIBITOR OF APOPTOSIS PROTEIN (XIAP) EXPRESSION PATTERNS IN THE SHEEP OVARY
Authors: Douglas H. R. , Kokay I. C. , Grattan D. R. , Hurst P. R.
Published: November 2010

At reproductive age, the ovary undergoes continual cyclicity of follicles due to multiple positive and negative signals that promote follicle growth and development, selection for ovulation, or atresia. The majority of follicles undergo atresia, a degenerative process involving granulosa cell apoptosis. This process is executed by caspases, which are cysteine proteases. Caspases are potently inhibited by XIAP providing a potential mechanism to control follicular atresia. The study objective was to test the hypothesis that XIAP will show elevated expression in healthy antral follicles compared to atretic antral follicles and will show an inverse relationship with active caspase-3 immunoreactivity in the same antral follicle during the sheep estrous cycle. Reproductively mature Romney ewes (n = 9) had estrous cycles synchronized with a prostaglandin F2α analogue, then tissue was collected on days 14, 15 and 16 of the subsequent natural cycle. Analysis involved determining the presence and localization of XIAP using in situ hybridization histochemistry and immunohistochemistry then comparing XIAP expression patterns with distribution of active caspase-3 protein. XIAP mRNA was not detected in primordial, primary and secondary follicles. In contrast, XIAP protein was present from the primary stage onwards. Antral follicles showed positive XIAP mRNA and protein expression in both granulosa and thecal cell layers and antral follicles on the same tissue section showed variable expression. All day 14 antral follicles were positive for XIAP mRNA expression irrespective of the level of active caspase-3 immunoreactivity, whereas an inverse relationship between active caspase-3 and XIAP was apparent in the majority of day 15 and 16 antral follicles. XIAP protein was widely expressed in active caspase-3 negative antral follicles and indicated a negative correlation with the onset of active caspase-3 expression in the majority of follicles. These results indicate that XIAP may regulate follicular atresia and act as an indicator of follicular health in the sheep ovary.
336. EXPRESSION AND REGULATION OF TWO PROTO-ONCOGENES BCL2 AND FOS IN THE PREIMPLANTATION MOUSE EMBRYO
Authors: Jin X. L. , O'Neill C.
Published: November 2010

Development of the preimplantation embryo requires survival signalling by autocrine embryotrophins. Paf is the first defined embryotrophin and acts via a receptor- and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase -dependent induction of intracellular calcium transients.1,2 These calcium transients induce a calmodulin-dependent nuclear accumulation and phosphorylation of the Creb transcription factor at the time that definitive transcription from the embryonic gene is initiated in the 2-cell embryo.3 A round 4084 loci possess CRE elements including Bcl2 and Fos.4 In this study we examined the role of Paf in the transcription of the key proto-oncogenes, Bcl2 and Fos in the early mouse embryo. Quantitative RT-PCR detected Bcl2 and Fos in oocytes and some cohorts of zygotes , but not in 2-cell, 8-cell and blastocysts. Immunolocalization of Bcl2 and Fos showed little staining in oocytes and zygotes but increased staining in the 2-cell to blastocyst stages. Paf treatment of 2-cell embryos caused an α-amanitin-sensitive expression of Bcl2 and Fos for 20 min that subsided by 40 min. This transcription was blocked by inhibition of calcium (BAPTA-AM) or phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase signa l ling (LY 294002). Analysis of individual embryos showed most zygotes , but only ~12 % of 2-cell embryos had detectable Bcl2 and Fos. A significantly smaller proportion of Ptafr–/– (Paf-receptor null) 2-cell embryos had detectable Bcl2 transcript and embryo culture (which diminishes Paf signalling) decreased transcription of Bcl2. This dichotomous pattern of transcript expression is consistent with the known periodic actions of Paf (with a periodicity of 90–120 min)2 and the relatively short-half life of the resulting transcripts. Bcl2 antagonist (HA14-1) caused a dose-dependent inhibition of cultured zygotes to develop to morphological blastocysts , which was partially reversed by exogenous Paf. The results show for the first time the autocrine embryotrophi n Paf induces periodic transient expression of key proto-oncogenes and provides evidence for a role of embryotrophins in the onset of gene expression in preimplantation embryo.
(1) O’Neill C. Hum Reprod Update 2005; 11: 215–228.(2) Emerson M, et al J Biol Chem 2000; 275: 21 905–21 913.(3) Jin XL, O’Neill C. Biology of Reproduction 2010; 82: 459–468.(4) Zhang X, et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2005; 102: 4459–4464.
337. DIETARY OMEGA-3 FATTY ACID SUPPLEMENTATION ALTERS EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT AND METABOLISM IN SOWS
Authors: Mitchell M. , Smits R. , Palmer N. O. , Filby A. N. , Lane M.
Published: November 2010

The long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have diverse biological effects, including the improvement of cardiovascular health and asthma. The aim of this study was to examine how dietary LCPUFA supplementation of sows influenced follicular dynamics, embryo development and metabolism. A total of 30 sows per treatment were fed a control diet (CD: standard commercial ration) or an omega-3 supplemented diet (O-3: diet formulated with 3 g fish oil/kg) for 6 weeks. Ovaries were collected at slaughter and weighed 3–5 days post-weaning. Oocytes were aspirated and counted from 3 different follicle size groups (1–4mm, 4–8mm and 8+ mm) and matured in vitro for 44–46 h, prior to (a) fertilization using IVF and analysis of subsequent embryo development in culture, (b) assessment of embryo respiration rate (EmbryoScope technology, UniSense, Denmark) and glucose metabolism (radiolabelled glucose technique). Granulosa cells collected at aspiration were analysed for gene expression using q-PCR. Despite no effect of O-3 supplementation on ovary weight nor the proportion of oocytes that were fertilised and cleaved, there tended to be more medium and large follicles for the O-3 fed group. Significantly more embryos from sows fed O-3 diets developed to blastocyst stage (P < 0.05) and these tended to have an increased number of cells (P = 0.06). At the zygote stage, diet didn’t influence embryo respiration rate but glucose utilisation by blastocysts was significantly lower for O-3 treatment compared to CD (P < 0.006). Gene expression of the ER2-α, FSH-receptor, or the prostaglandin receptors EP2 and EP4 did not differ, but there tended to be reduced expression of progesterone receptor (PR) and cycloxygenase-2 (COX-2) in granulosa cells from O-3 sows (P < 0.07). In summary, O-3 dietary supplementation changed follicular growth, embryo development and blastocyst metabolism. Further studies are ongoing to determine the effect of supplementation on embryo survival and litter size.
338. METHYL BINDING DOMAIN PROTEIN (MBD1) IN THE NUCLEUS OF THE MOUSE ZYGOTE
Authors: Li Y. , Jin X. L. , O'Neill C.
Published: November 2010

MBD1 is one of five proteins which bind methylated DNA and regulate gene transcription. The binding of these proteins, particularly MBD1, is commonly used as a proxy measurement of global CpG methylation. Since methylation is reported to be highly dynamic during the first cell-cycle, with reported asymmetric global demethylation of the paternal and maternal genomes by the time of syngamy, we were interested to assess the pattern of staining of the MBD1 during this stage of development. A specific antibody to MBD1 was shown by Western analysis to detect in zygotes a protein of predicted mass. Using immunolocalization, however, we found no staining in pronuclei. Brief acid treatment (10min, 4M HCl) followed by immunolabelling revealed strong pronuclear MBD1 staining throughout the maturation of the zygote and on metaphase chromosomes, indicative of epitope masking under normal staining conditions. Upon unmasking by acid treatment zygotes collected fresh from the oviduct did not show consistent differences in MBD1 staining between the maternal or paternal chromosomes or pronuclei, but for those embryos produced by IVF we found more MBD1 staining in the male paternal pronucleus. Brief treatment with trypsin caused a marked loss of MBD1 staining and this treatment increased the extent of staining of 5-methylcytosine. These results show that MBD1 antigen persists on DNA after treatments normally used for the detection of 5-methylcytosine. MBD1 at least partially masks methylcytosine from immunological detection and the results therefore raise the possibility that the reported changes in genome methylation in the zygote are a consequence of the binding of MBD1. If MBD1 binding is truly a proxy for methylation, the persistence of high levels of MBD1 throughout the first cell-cycle questions the current paradigm of global demethylation during zygote maturation.
341. STUDY OF APHRODISIAC DRUG ACID PHOS ON MALE ALBINO RAT
Authors: Deshmukh C. K. I.
Published: November 2010

The male albino rat, Rattus norvegicus maintained in the laboratory by supplying regularly food and water. Acid phos is a well known aphrodisiac drug from homeopathy medical system. Doses of 200 gm of 30 number globules made from sugar of milk and moistened by 15 mL of acid phos (H3PO3) of 6 potency. Group-I, II and III experimental rats were carried out for 15, 30, and 15 day recovery period respectively. Appreciable behavioral changes and changes in the body weights were noticed. In 15, 30 and in 15 days of recovery period, the acid phosphatase, SGOT and albumin were significant (P < 0.05) while alkaline phosphatase, SGPT, cholesterol, glucose, total proteins and globulin was found non-significant but A:G ratio was increasedsignificantly in 30 days of treatment. The weight of liver, kidney, and testis has found linear increased relationship with the body weight but significant (P < 0.050) increased in the weight of seminal vesicle and body weight in the experimental rat. Various histo-architectural changes were observed in the tissues of liver, kidney, testis and seminal vesicle. Both liver and kidney showed degenerative changes after 15 and 30 days .Tetraploid stages of liver pernchymal cells were predominant in the experimental rats while in 15 days of recovery period, both attained the recovery. In 30 days, the diameter of seminiferous tubules is markedly reduced, with thin unfolded mucosa. In 15 days of administration of acid phos, the intertubular spaces between the seminiferous tubule were also reduced. The number of spermatids was increased in recovery period, the testis showed the recovery. In 15 days of administration, the secretion in the lumen of seminal vesicles increased related with the structure of the epithelium of seminal vesicles while in 15 days of recovery period, the seminal vesicles showed recovery of secretory activities with pseudostratified epithelium. All the results are discussed detailed in paper.
Oh deer, what can the matter be? Landholder attitudes to deer management in Queensland
Authors: Finch N. A. , Baxter G. S.
Published: November 2010

Deer are not native to Australia but have been present in the country for more than 150 years. For most of that time they have not been regarded as either an agricultural or environmental pest, but in the last few years there have been calls for their numbers to be reduced. Four species of deer can be found in well established populations in Queensland, mostly occurring on private land. Hence the effectiveness of any management of deer as pests will be heavily influenced by the actions of the land owners. This paper reports on a survey of the attitudes of landholders towards deer on their properties. A total of 2621 surveys was mailed to landowners and managers in regions known to support wild deer in Queensland. Of the 28.3% of surveys returned, over 75% of respondents conducted some form of primary production on their land and 65% of these had deer on their properties at least some of the time. Responses to questions were mostly uniform throughout the state, with over 50% of respondents wanting the deer population to stay at current levels or increase. Only 5% of respondents supported poisoning as a management strategy, with 17% supporting trapping. Recreational hunting and game-meat harvesting were favoured management options, with 42% and 51% support respectively. Only 25% of respondents thought wild deer caused environmental damage and 30% thought wild deer caused agricultural damage, with most associating wild deer as a less significant pest than those species already declared under state legislation. Of those surveyed, 56% agreed with the statement ‘It is important to maintain wild deer populations for future generations to enjoy’. The spread of deer in Australia is of increasing concern to ecologists, and there have been calls for action to reduce their numbers on private and public land. The results of this survey imply that a significant proportion of Queensland landholders would resist legislation aimed at managing deer as a pest in areas with long-established wild deer populations.
Factors influencing the distribution of the yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis australis) in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Rees Michael , Paull David J. , Carthew Susan M.
Published: November 2010

In this study we examine broad-scale factors affecting the distribution of the yellow-bellied glider (Petaurus australis australis) in the southern Australian state of Victoria. Using the bioclimatic analysis and prediction system, BIOCLIM, and vegetation-suitability mapping, we assessed the potential distribution of the species at the time of European settlement and compared it to the current distribution. BIOCLIM revealed that P. a. australis is most likely to occur in areas with mean annual rainfall >600 mm and mean annual temperature between 6°C and 14.5°C. Much of its current distribution is skewed to the eastern half of the State, and our results emphasise a disjunction between western and eastern Victorian populations that is attributed to unsuitable climate and vegetation for the species. This indicates that P. australis in the west was most likely separated from eastern Victorian P. australis long before European settlement. Our results also indicate that isolated P. australis populations in south-western Victoria represent fragments of what was probably a much more widely distributed population when European settlement took place. Owing to the highly restricted distribution of suitable remnant native vegetation, these westernmost P. australis populations should be a high priority for future research and conservation work.
Stability of cabergoline in fox baits in laboratory and field conditions
Authors: McLean Stuart , Brandon Susan , Kirkwood Roger
Published: November 2010

Cabergoline is a potent inhibitor of prolactin release and a potential fertility control agent for foxes. To understand how cabergoline could behave in baits deployed for fox control, we conducted laboratory and field trials to investigate the stability of cabergoline when (1) in solution, (2) injected into a bait (deep-fried liver and Foxoff®) and (3) exposed to a range of environmental conditions, including burial. Cabergoline, dissolved in a 1% acetic acid solution, and its carboxylic acid hydrolysis product can be assayed using high-performance liquid chromatography. When stored at 4°C and at room temperature, cabergoline in solution was stable for up to 36 days. When stored under cool (≤15°C), dry conditions, cabergoline (800 µg) in commercial Foxoff® and deep-fried ox-liver baits was stable for 28 and 7 days, respectively; stability was reduced by increases in temperature (tested up to 40°C) and humidity. Recovery of cabergoline from buried baits exposed to a range of field conditions decreased rapidly in the first week, but after 56 days remained detectable at levels of 6–22% of the injected amounts. This study has important implications for baiting campaigns that use cabergoline for fox control.
Bird assemblages of a fragmented agricultural landscape and the relative importance of vegetation structure and landscape pattern
Authors: Johnson Matthew , Reich Paul , Mac Nally Ralph
Published: November 2010

Many of the world’s agricultural areas have greatly reduced levels of natural vegetation. This results in highly fragmented mosaic landscapes with multiple land-use types. We examined the importance of vegetation and landscape pattern by comparing the bird assemblages of riparian zones, non-riparian forest patches, and pasture in a fragmented agricultural landscape in south-eastern Australia. Bird surveys were conducted every four weeks at 27 sites in the Goldfields region of central Victoria for one year. The landscape context (position and shape of patches) and vegetation attributes were measured for each site. We found that bird assemblages strongly differed among these landscape elements. Mean abundance was significantly greater at forested patches, and there was a three-fold reduction in species richness at pasture sites. Bird assemblage structure was influenced substantially more by vegetation than by the landscape context of sites. Our results indicate that riparian vegetation is a key element for avian diversity, even in massively altered landscapes. The restoration of riparian vegetation and its connectivity with adjacent forest types would greatly benefit bird assemblages in agricultural areas.
Broad-scale environmental influences on the abundance of saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) in Australia
Authors: Fukuda Yusuke , Whitehead Peter , Boggs Guy
Published: November 2010

Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) populations have recovered strongly across northern Australia over the 30 years since the species was protected from hunting. However, monitoring studies show large geographical variations in abundance across the Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia. The Northern Territory has considerably higher densities, raising questions about constraints on recovery in the other states. We examined broad-scale environmental influences on population abundance by modelling the species–environment relationships across northern Australia. The hypothesis-based models showed strong support for the linkage to (1) the ratio of total area of favourable wetland vegetation types (Melaleuca, grass and sedge) to total catchment area, (2) a measure of rainfall seasonality, namely the ratio of total precipitation in the coldest quarter to total precipitation in the warmest quarter of a year, and (3) the mean temperature in the coldest quarter of a year. On the other hand, we were unable to show any clear negative association with landscape modification, as indicated by the extent of high-impact land uses or human population density in catchments. We conclude that geographical variations in crocodile density are mostly attributable to differences in habitat quality rather than the management regimes adopted in the respective jurisdictions.
Using multiple survey methods to detect terrestrial reptiles and mammals: what are the most successful and cost-efficient combinations?
Authors: Garden Jenni G. , McAlpine Clive A. , Possingham Hugh P. , Jones Darryl N.
Published: November 2010

The selection of methods for wildlife surveys is a decision that will influence the accuracy and comprehensiveness of survey outcomes. The choice of methods is commonly based on the species of interest, yet is often limited by the project budget. Although several studies have investigated the effectiveness of various survey techniques for detecting terrestrial mammal and reptile species, none have provided a quantitative analysis of the costs associated with different methods. We compare the detection success and cost efficiency of cage traps, Elliott traps, pit-fall traps, hair funnels, direct observation, and scat detection/analysis for detecting the occurrence of terrestrial reptile and small mammal species in urban bushland remnants of Brisbane City, Queensland, Australia. Cage traps and Elliott traps coupled with hair funnels were the most cost-effective methods for detecting the highest number of ground-dwelling mammal species. Pit-fall traps and direct observations were the most cost-effective methods for maximising the number of reptile species identified. All methods made a contribution to overall detection success by detecting at least one species not detected by any other method. This suggests that a combination of at least two complementary methods will provide the most successful and cost-efficient detection of reptile and mammal species in urban forest remnants. Future studies should explicitly test these findings and examine efficient trapping combinations across different habitat types and for other fauna groups.
Importance of canopy connectivity for home range and movements of the rainforest arboreal ringtail possum (Hemibelideus lemuroides)
Authors: Wilson Robyn F. , Marsh Helene , Winter John
Published: November 2010

Roads and powerline corridors destroy canopy connectivity in the rainforest of north-east Australia. We tested the hypotheses that linear barriers affect (a) the alignment of home ranges, (b) use of habitat either side of linear barriers, and (c) the crossing of them by the strictly arboreal lemuroid ringtail possum (Hemibelideus lemuroides), which is known to be vulnerable to habitat fragmentation. Radio-tracking and a translocation experiment were conducted at a narrow 7-m-wide road and an 80-m-wide powerline. Homes ranges of lemuroid ringtails ranged from 0.15 to 1.67 ha (minimum convex polygon) and were aligned with the road but not powerline corridors. When lemuroid ringtails were experimentally translocated, wider canopy clearings over roads reduced their capacity to return to their original home range, and the powerline corridor was a nearly insurmountable barrier. No possums were observed crossing roads or the powerline corridor at ground level or residing in the intervening matrix, indicating that loss of canopy connectivity has a negative impact on their movements.
Insights into size, seasonality and biology of a nesting population of the Olive Ridley turtle in northern Australia
Authors: Whiting Scott D. , Long John L. , Hadden Kate M. , Lauder Anderson D. K. , Koch Andrea U.
Published: November 2010

The Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), classed as endangered in Australia, is one of Australia’s least studied marine turtles and is little known in the south-east Asian region. This is the first detailed study of the nesting biology and ecology of L. olivacea in Australia or south-east Asia, which adds to the regional knowledge of the species and will aid management locally. Daytime surveys of nesting tracks at 14-day intervals in 2004 and irregular surveys in 2005 indicated that the nesting season extended from February to November with peak nesting in April and May. Daily track counts over a 14-day period in April 2004 during peak nesting showed that nesting abundance varied between nights and along the beach. Nightly numbers ranged from 2 to 59 turtles per night over the 10-km beach while, spatially, nesting densities (0.1–6.9 tracks km–1 night–1) varied between sectors. Nesting in this population was solitary, as opposed to the mass nesting behaviour of L. olivacea observed elsewhere in its range, such as in India, Mexico and Costa Rica. The size of nesting L. olivacea was normally distributed with a mean curved carapace length of 69.6 ± 2.3 (s.d.) cm (range = 65.0–75.2, n = 85). During the peak of the nesting season dingoes (Canis lupus dingo) were responsible for the highest egg mortality (over 14%), followed by varanids (Varanus spp., 4.5%) and humans (1.7%). Cyclone Ingrid caused significant egg loss in 2004. Saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) were a significant predator of adult nesting turtles.
The distribution of sodium fluoroacetate within 1080 egg-baits used for canid control
Authors: Twigg Laurie E. , Kirkpatrick Win E. , Lowe Tim J.
Published: November 2010

Egg-baits prepared by the insertion of a 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate)-treated rhodamine-dyed oat-grain into each egg are used for controlling foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Australia. However, the diffusion pattern of 1080 from the inserted oat into the egg and the distribution of 1080 within the egg are unknown. As both factors will influence whether the target species needs to consume the oat to receive a lethal dose, and also the withholding period required before the baits can be laid, we examined the rate of diffusion and the ultimate distribution of 1080 within these baits. Rhodamine oats containing 4.5 mg of 1080 were inserted into the white of intact eggs, or into eggs where the white and yolk was mixed (scrambled). 1080 rapidly dispersed into the eggs (but not the yolk of intact eggs) irrespective of which technique was used: 72–88% (3.22–3.96 mg 1080) of the recovered 1080 was found in the scrambled egg fraction or in the egg-whites within 1–2 h. Most of the remaining 1080 was found in the rhodamine oats, with the yolks containing only 2–8% of the nominal amount. The rapid diffusion of 1080 into the egg fraction, together with the very low levels of 1080 remaining in the rhodamine oats, indicate that: (1) target species such as foxes would not need to consume the oat to ingest a lethal dose, (2) providing a 2–3 h withholding period is allowed before baits are laid, any rhodamine oats not ingested would contain minimal amounts of 1080 and therefore pose little potential risk to non-target species, and (3) foxes would not need to ingest an entire egg-bait to receive a lethal dose. However, in preparing these baits, we recommend that the eggs be scrambled before the insertion of the rhodamine oats (to reduce the potential for operator error) and that a 2–3-h withholding period be allowed (to ensure that most 1080 is within the egg fraction) before these baits can be consumed by foxes or other target species.
Predicting the occurrence of the quokka, Setonix brachyurus (Macropodidae:Marsupialia), in Western Australia's northern jarrah forest
Authors: Hayward Matt W. , de Tores Paul J. , Dillon Michael J. , Banks Peter B.
Published: November 2010

The quokka, Setonix brachyurus, is a medium-sized, macropodid marsupial that is endemic to south-western Australia. It has declined markedly in its distribution and abundance since the early 1930s and is listed as vulnerable under IUCN criteria. The presence or absence of quokka populations at 66 sites in the northern jarrah forest of Australia was investigated using generalised linear models (GLM). We hypothesised that fox control and the presence of a mosaic of post-fire seral stages within Agonis linearifolia swamp vegetation were important in predicting the presence of quokkas. The number of poison meat baits delivered per hectare, the average number of years since the swamps burnt and the number of post-fire age classes within the swamps (mosaic value) were used as explanatory variables. Two models had substantial support (ΔAICc < 2), with the best approximating model including the variables ‘baiting’ and ‘swamp age’, and the second-best model including the additional variable ‘swamp mosaic value’. The two best models had Akaike weights (weight of evidence as being the best model of the data) of 0.465 and 0.308 respectively. We used an information-theoretic approach and multimodel inference to determine the best approximating model of baiting, swamp age and swamp mosaic, and Akaike weights to assess model fit and to rank variable importance. Baiting had a model average parameter estimate of 98, swamp age 79 and a mosaic of swamp age classes 42, implying that baiting was more than twice as important as the number of swamp ages classes at a site in predicting the occurrence of quokkas. Evidence from our analysis therefore supports previous studies that concluded that continued fox control and the maintenance of a mosaic of early seral stage (<10 years since fire) and long unburnt habitat (>19 years since fire) are essential for its conservation.
Management of animal and plant pests in New Zealand - patterns of control and monitoring by regional agencies
Authors: Clayton Richard , Cowan Phil
Published: November 2010

Context. Significant resources are spent annually in New Zealand controlling pests to mitigate impacts on native biodiversity and agricultural production, but there are few reliable estimates of the benefits. Concerns have been expressed about inconsistent monitoring methodologies, differing frequencies and intensities of control across organisations, and poor definition of desired outcomes.
Aims. To conduct and report on a survey of animal and plant pest control and monitoring by regional agencies, to identify issues with current practice and to provide advice on improvements.
Methods. We surveyed 15 regional agencies in New Zealand about the pest control and associated monitoring undertaken during 2005–08. We recorded the pests targeted, the control work done and its operational details, any result and/or outcome monitoring conducted, and estimated costs.
Key results. About 21% of the NZ$20 million expenditure on pest control was for monitoring. Excluding compliance (62%), monitoring changes in pest populations accounted for 31% of the total monitoring expenditure, whereas only 7% was spent measuring response in the resource that was supposedly being protected. The most common monitoring design (71%) comprised a single treatment area with no non-treatment area, in which only results were monitored. Only three programs (4%) had both treatment and non-treatment areas and both results and outcome monitoring.
Conclusions. Such limited outcome monitoring constrains severely the ability of regional and local authorities to provide robust justification for their pest management activities and expenditures.
Implications. Improved outcome monitoring requires better design of and additional resources for monitoring programs, improved institutional/political support for long-term programs, and better definition of long-term outcomes and objectives for pest management.