bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scaring seals by sound
Authors: ANDERSON SHEILA S. , HAWKINS A. D.
Published: April 2008

In 1974 and 1975 a series of trials were made to investigate the effectiveness of sound as a deterrent to marauding seals at salmon netting stations. A feasibility trial was followed by experimental work on a captive juvenile Common seal. A wide variety of sounds including pure tones, Killer whale calls and recorded loud noises were transmitted and responses were recorded on videotape. While one sound appeared to elicit an alarm reaction, habituation was rapid. Field trials were carried out at netting stations at the mouth of the River Tweed which frequently suffer damage from Grey seals. Although the frequencies used spanned the entire hearing range of seals, no sound was consistently effective in scaring seals from the nets. It is concluded that the prospect of an acoustic deterrent is remote.
A review of studies on populations of wild Harvest mice (Micromys minutus (Pallas)
Authors: TROUT R. C.
Published: April 2008

The information on population structure, fluctuations, natality, mortality, and spatial distribution of wild Harvest mouse populations is reviewed from the published literature. In addition, information gathered during a recent live trapping study is brought forward to provide both corroborative and new evidence to increase the knowledge of the demography of this species. Populations are characterized by high reproductive rate and low survival rate. Harvest mice populations undergo great changes in density, both seasonally and from year to year. Adult females produce normally one or two litters during their lifetime. Reproduction is achieved by the young of the year and four generations may breed within one breeding season. Climatic factors control the length of the breeding season in addition to affecting greatly (coupled with predation) the length of life. Survival is low, the longest lived individuals survive only one winter. Harvest mice have been shown, on the basis of live trapping, to live within small home ranges and several of these may overlap.
A study of the home ranges of free‐ranging Exmoor ponies
Authors: GATES SUSAN
Published: April 2008

The ecology of the free‐ranging Exmoor ponies has not previously been studied. In this investigation, the locations of the few pure‐bred herds are given, together with information on their populations, and the reasons for selecting the Withypool Common herds are outlined. The features of this main study area, the types of ponies and their special groupings are described in some detail. The home ranges of the Exmoor herds are examined on an annual and monthly basis, and their relationships to each other and to that of the mongrel herd are studied. This is followed by information on the changing patterns of the two Exmoor pony ranges and a discussion of the significance of inter‐stallion relationships. Finally, the home range systems are assessed for features of territoriality.
The mammalian tail: a review of functions
Authors: HICKMAN GRAHAM C.
Published: April 2008

The mammalian tail, present in all mammalian species, has evolved as a surprisingly multi‐purpose and important appendage. The major conservative feature appears to be retention of the tail as a single, unbranched appendage; otherwise, colour, shape, size and mobility vary greatly.

Not all of the adaptations discussed are common to all mammalian orders, and no single mammalian order has all the different adaptations occurring in it. These diverse functions may be useful in interpreting behavioural observations, and function as potential guideposts for further investigation.
Reliability of placental scar counts in the Red fox {Vulpes vulpes L.) with special reference to fading of the scars
Authors: LINDSTRÖM ERIK
Published: April 2008

The use of placental scar counts in determining litter size and pregnancy rate among Red foxes (Vulpes vulpes L.) is reviewed. There is no experimental material to test the validity of the method, although many authors have discussed it. Recent workers have (1) included uteri from vixens killed later in the season and, (2) become more concerned about effects of resorptions and/or abortions on scar counts, as well as the possibility of scars persisting from earlier pregnancies. In the present study, scar counts overestimated numbers of persisting corpora lutea to a higher degree in old vixens than in yearlings; and scars were shown to fade over winter. Estimates of frequency of breeding among females, based on various combinations of placental scars of different shades, and on date of death, are discussed. The relation between number of scars of different shades, date of death and known minimum litter size in three wild and one captive vixen is compared with the foregoing. Counts of all scars evidently overestimate litter size at birth and breeding frequency, probably because some scars originate at resorption sites and others persist from earlier pregnancies. Only dark scars should be counted early in the season, but those of increasingly lighter shade should be included as winter progresses. A guide to counting placental scars over winter is presented.
The otter (Lutra lutra L.) in western France
Authors: GREEN J. , GREEN R.
Published: April 2008

In a survey of western France during October‐November 1980, signs of otters were found at 46 (15%) of the 315 sites investigated. Otters were largely restricted to four areas, three of these being in the uplands (of Brittany, the Massif Central and the Pyrenees) and one in the coastal lowlands (of the Landes‐Gironde). The average number of signs found per successful site was 1 6, significantly lower than for Scodand and Ireland but similar to the figure for England. The percentage of positive sites and the scattered nature of the signs in western France was also broadly comparable witJi the English situation. This is surprising since most of the factors which adversely affect otters appear to be less oppressive there dian in England. Only water pollution is noticeably more extreme and this seems to offer the best, overall explanation for the nature of the decline in the area studied.
Bibliography of the genus Apodemus (Rodentia, Muridae)
Authors: JÜDES ULRICH
Published: April 2008

A complete bibliography of the genus Apodemus for the period 1970–1980 is presented, with a selection of the more important papers from earlier years, and a few references for 1981. A coded index to species and subjects is provided. All titles have been translated into English.
The status of the otter (Lutra lutra) in the British Isles
Authors: MACDONALD S. M.
Published: April 2008

National field surveys for otters were carried out between 1977 and 1981. The species is apparently absent from large areas of England, although healthy populations still occur in the south‐west. In many other areas, populations are isolated and fragmented and there is some evidence for continuing declines. In Wales the otter is rare or absent from the south and parts of the north. Healthy populations are present in the Highland Region of Scotland, on the north and west coasts and in the islands but there is evidence of a decline in the south and east‐central lowlands. Otters are widespread and common in Ireland which sustains the best of the known populations in Europe.

Pollution by pesticides probably caused the initial rapid decline of the species but habitat destruction is increasingly important and where habitat is poor, human disturbance assumes greater significance. There is no evidence of competition with mink. The otter is now a protected species but if it is to recover some of its former range, remaining habitat must be retained.

While otter populations have decreased over much of northern Europe, the animal survives, albeit somewhat precariously, in a few southern parts of the continent.
Winter energy requirements of soricine shrews
Authors: W. AITCHISON C.
Published: April 2008

The energy requirements of shrews under snow cover have not been determined. This is an expository paper attempting to ascertain the daily energy budget of a soricine in subnivean conditions. By means of extrapolation from past work (Morrison, Ryser & Dawe, 1959; Gebczynski, 1965, 1971), a winter individual of Sorex cinereus (mean weight of 2–6 g) in southern Manitoba has a rather high energy budget at 2oC of about 38‐6 kj or 9‐2kcal per day. It is assumed that winter prey include invertebrates and small mammals, and their biomass and energy content are estimated. Compensatory factors reducing energy needs are considered, i.e. Dehnel's Phenomenon, extended periods in the nest, low population densities and adequate snow cover. We can probably reduce the above figure for a daily energy budget when considering all the above factors, so that about 30 kj are required daily at the mean subnivean temperature of – 4–5oC.
Interactions between the parasitic protozoa of small mammals
Authors: COX F. E. G.
Published: April 2008

In the wild, small mammals are frequently infected with more than one parasite. Laboratory studies have revealed complex interactions between parasites and also between parasitic protozoa and viruses or bacteria. In general, infection with many parasites is accompanied by a period of immunodepression during which superimposed infections are favoured, giving rise to more intense and prolonged secondary infections while the original infection is unaffected. On the other hand, organisms that activate macrophages may protect die host against a subsequent infection. These kinds of interactions have been investigated in the laboratory using Trypanosoma musculi, T. lewisi, Giardia muris, Spironucleus muris, Babesia microti and Heligmosomoides polygyrus, all of which occur in British small mammals, suggesting that such interactions occur in the field, are worth investigating and should be considered in epidemiological studies.
Comparison of dispersal and other movements in two Badger (Meles meles) populations
Authors: CHEESEMAN C. L. , CRESSWELL W. J. , HARRIS S. , MALLINSON P. J.
Published: April 2008

The dispersal and other movement patterns in two Badger populations, one in rural Gloucestershire and the other in suburban Bristol, are described and categorized into nine different types of movement. Movements were less common in the high density Badger population in Gloucestershire, but disturbance increased the likelihood of movements occurring. In the lower density Bristol population, where the social structure was more fluid, movements were more common. However, in both populations truly itinerant Badgers appeared to be rare. More male than female Badgers moved, but for each type of movement there was no difference in the distance moved by males and females. Movements were rare in animals less than a year old; most movements occurred in sexually mature animals, i.e. those more than 2 years old.
Geographical variation in body size of the Wood Mouse Apodemus sylvaticus L.
Authors: ALCÁNTARA MANUEL
Published: April 2008

This paper analyses the geographical variation in body size of the Wood Mouse. A size increase is observed from north to south, contrary to Bergmann's rule. This increase is related to regions of sympatry and allopatry with the Yellow‐necked Mouse, a closely related, potentially competing species. The possibility of character displacement playing an important role in determining the observed variation in body size is discussed.
The genus Sorex (Mammalia, Soricidae)–distribution and evolutionary aspects of Eurasian species
Authors: DANNELID ERLAND
Published: April 2008

There are about 60 species of shrews of the genus Sorex distributed over the Nearctic and Palaearctic regions; these are usually divided into the subgenera Sorex, Otisorex and Microsorex. The Old World species are listed and their phylogeny discussed, with special emphasis laid on the karyotypes. It is proposed that the Old World forms should be divided into the subgenera Homalurus, Sorex and Otisorex. It is also suggested that the subgenus Sorex could be divided into at least three taxonomic units.
The European Pine Marten Martes martes in the Balearic Islands, Spain
Authors: CLEVENGER ANTHONY P.
Published: April 2008

Between March and December 1990, a survey of Pine Marten Martes martes L. on the Balearic Islands of Minorca and Majorca was carried out. Pine Marten were found distributed over 55% of Minorca and occupied Aleppo Pine and Holm Oak forests, mediterranean shrublands and riparian/ cliff habitats. In Majorca, Pine Marten were found on 48% of the island and three broad physiographic areas, the Sierra de Tramuntana, Sierra de Levant and the Massif de Randa. Droppings were collected along four designated routes during five bimonthly intervals in Minorca to describe the Pine Marten's differential use of habitat types. The upland/open pine forest had the highest use index while the Holm Oak forest had the lowest. The number of Pine Marten faeces collected was greatest during the months of July‐August. The Balearic Island Pine Marten populations were once on the verge of extinction; however, protection during the last 20 years has enabled the species to recover throughout most of the forested habitats on both islands. Resource managers must carefully monitor the Pine Marten populations to provide the species and its habitat with adequate protection and management in the future.
Caching behaviour of Red Squirrels Sciurus vulgaris under conditions of high food availability
Authors: RICE‐OXLEY SUSAN B.
Published: April 2008

Members of the genus Sciurus store seed when plentiful by scatterhoarding. Such caches are impossible to defend and vulnerable to both interspecific and intraspecific competitors. In view of the delicate position held by Red Squirrels Sciurus vulgaris L. in Britain it is of value to extend to this species studies of the methods whereby such competition is reduced. Caching behaviour in a population of Red Squirrels living in a protected reserve and receiving supplementary food was studied for 18 months. Two main aspects were investigated; their ability to find caches they had not made, and their efforts to reduce competition for caches they did make. Stapanian & Smith (1978) predicted that caches are made at an optimal density and that the entire 360d̀ arc around a resource is used. This study upheld this second prediction but not the first for the population of Red Squirrels in question. In addition, it is suggested that caching cannot be considered to be permanent under conditions of surplus food.
Woodland small mammal population ecology in Britain: a preliminary review of the Mammal Society survey of Wood Mice Apodemus sylvaticus and Bank Voles Clethrionomys glareolus, 1982–87
Authors: MALLORIE H. C. , FLOWERDEW J. R.
Published: April 2008

The Mammal Society has co‐ordinated a population survey of Wood Mice Apodemus sylvaticus and Bank Voles Clethrionomys glareolus in 13 0.81 ‐hectare sites in Britain. Numbers of mice and voles live‐trapped using standard methods were collated every May/June and November/December from 1982 to 1987. The data were analysed with results from four independent studies in England and the corresponding assessments of tree seed crop size. Wood Mouse numbers are usually higher in winter than in summer but Bank Vole fluctuations are less regular. In deciduous woodland, Wood Mouse mean relative densities are significantly greater in the winter and the following summer after a good seed crop than after a poor one; rates of population change from summer to winter are significantly higher when a good seed crop falls. Bank Vole relative densities are significantly greater in the summer following a good seed crop than after a poor one, and rates of change from winter to summer are significantly higher. In Wood Mouse populations, tests for density dependence suggest that it is strong from summer to winter but absent from winter to summer; in Bank Voles weaker density dependence is present in both halves of the year. Thus, Wood Mouse numbers are regulated in autumn but are also influenced by seed crop size in winter and the following summer; Bank Vole numbers are less strongly regulated during both autumn and spring and are influenced by seed crop size in the following summer. Evidence is presented suggesting that populations of each species in deciduous woodlands are synchronized over the country in summer and that Wood Mice are also synchronized in winter; highs and lows tend to coincide between different sites. The yield of tree seed is shown to vary significantly from year to year and may be the cause of the synchrony, but weather effects may also be involved.
The Round‐eared Elephant‐Shrew Macroscelides proboscideus (Macroscelidea) as an omnivore
Authors: KERLEY GRAHAM I. H.
Published: April 2008

Elephant‐shrews were classified as Insectivora and were traditionally considered to be insectivorous, although ancestral forms were herbivorous. Despite the presence of a functional caecum, many authors still describe elephant‐shrews as insectivorous. Three data sets, totalling 143 samples, of the Round‐eared Elephant‐Shrew Macroscelides proboscideus diet from the semi‐arid Karoo, South Africa, were analysed. Results indicate that this species is largely insectivorous, although plant matter makes up almost 45% of the diet by volume. Diet varies seasonally, with the intake of herbage peaking in winter, when herbage may comprise up to 97% of the diet The contribution of insects to the diet was not related to either insect availability (as indexed by pit‐trapping) or body condition, suggesting that Round‐eared Elephant‐Shrews may be true omnivores, selecting a diet of both insects and herbage. The relatively long large intestine of this species of elephant‐shrew may not be related to the water requirements, but may be a plesiomorphic character that has been retained as a consequence of the higher degree of omnivory displayed by Round‐eared Elephant‐Shrews, which appear to consume more plant matter than the other elephant‐shrews.
The distribution of the Egyptian Mongoose Herpestes ichneumon (L.) in Portugal
Authors: BORRALHO R. , REGO. F. , PALOMARES F. , HORA A.
Published: April 2008

The current range and relative abundance of the Egyptian Mongoose Herpestes ichneumon (L.) in Portugal were studied using data obtained through direct field observations, personal communications and answers to enquiries. The present northern limit of its distribution has extended well beyond the Tagus River in most of its Portuguese range, indicating a probable expansion in recent years. A consistent increase in abundance was detected from north to south, latitude being highly correlated with computed indices of Mongoose abundance. The best‐fit model for predicting Mongoose relative abundance in the country considers latitude and human population density simultaneously. Altitude is the only environmental variable significantly correlated with the Mongoose abundance once the influence of latitude is discounted. Available information appears to indicate that the Portuguese Mongoose population is increasing, nevertheless research is needed in order to assess the impact of current predator control schemes on local populations.
Present distribution of the Golden Jackal Canis aureus in the Balkans and adjacent regions
Authors: KRYŠTUFEK B. , MURARIU D. , KURTONUR C.
Published: April 2008

Small, scattered, but resident, populations of Golden Jackal Canis aureus occur along the coasts of the Balkan Peninsula. The bulk of these European Jackals is concentrated in the eastern parts of the Peninsula, mainly in Bulgaria. The northern border of the resident population lies along the Danube in the Walachian Plain of Romania, and in Srem (Yugoslavia). Vagrants may appear far outside the Balkans in north‐eastern Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Hungary and Slovakia. Whilst the species is in decline in Greece, it has expanded its area in Bulgaria from = 2400 km2 in 1962 to 80 000 km2 in 1985, i.e. a 33‐fold range increase within 23 years.
Comparison of methods for obtaining population estimates for Red Squirrels in relation to damage due to bark stripping.
Authors: BRYCE J. , PRITCHARD J. S. , WARAN N. K. , YOUNG R. J.
Published: April 2008

The relation between population density and the extent of damage incurred by bark stripping behaviour was investigated in a Scots Pine plantation known to have suffered considerable damage. Population density was estimated by three non‐interventionist methods that could potentially be applied elsewhere: line surveys, drey counts and cone counts. The different methods of estimating the population size proved to be consistent and produced an unusually high value of four Red Squirrels per hectare. Within the study area, fresh damage was related to local population densities.
Genetic discontinuity, breeding‐system change and population history of Arabis alpina in the Italian Peninsula and adjacent Alps
Authors: ANSELL S. W. , GRUNDMANN M. , RUSSELL S. J. , SCHNEIDER H. , VOGEL J. C.
Published: April 2008

Arabis alpina is a widespread plant of European arctic and alpine environments and belongs to the same family as Arabidopsis thaliana. It grows in all major mountain ranges within the Italian glacial refugia and populations were sampled over a 1300 km transect from Sicily to the Alps. Diversity was studied in nuclear and chloroplast genome markers, combining phylogeographical and population genetic approaches. Alpine populations had significantly lower levels of nuclear genetic variation compared to those in the Italian Peninsula, and this is associated with a pronounced change in within‐population inbreeding. Alpine populations were significantly inbred (FIS = 0.553), possibly reflecting a change to the self‐incompatibility system during leading edge colonization. The Italian Peninsula populations were approaching Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (outbreeding, FIS =  0.076) and genetic variation was highly structured, consistent with independent local ‘refugia within refugia’ and the fragmentation of an established population by Quaternary climate oscillations. There is very little evidence of genetic exchange between the Alps and the Italian Peninsula main distribution ranges. The Alps functioned as a glacial sink for A. alpina, while the Italian Peninsula remains a distinct and separate long‐term refugium. Comparative analysis indicated that inbreeding populations probably recolonized the Alps twice: (i) during a recent postglacial colonization of the western Alps from a Maritime Alps refugium; and (ii) separately into the central Alps from a source outside the sampling range. The pronounced geographical structure and inbreeding discontinuities are significant for the future development of A. alpina as a model species.
Characterization and mapping of a gene controlling shoot regeneration in tomato
Authors: Koornneef Maarten , Bade Jacob , Hanhart Corrie , Horsman Karin , Schel Jan , Soppe Wim , Verkerk Ruud , Zabel Pim
Published: April 2008

The superior regeneration capacity of Lycopersicon peruvianum was introduced into the cultivated tomato Lycopersicon esculentum by backcrossing hybrid material with the tomato genotype VF11. In segregating material derived from these backcrosses, the ability to regenerate shoots on root explants cultured on a zeatin‐containing medium, was highly correlated with the ability to regenerate shoots on established callus cultures. The efficient shoot‐regenerating root explant system permitted us to study the genetics of this trait and to locate the genes involved, using a set of morphological markers defining all 12 tomato chromosomes. Depending on the tomato genotype, mono, ‐di‐ or trigenic ratios were observed. It is concluded that a dominant L. peruvianum allele at a locus (Rg‐1) near the middle of chromosome 3 determines efficient shoot regeneration on root explants in tomato in combination with dominant alleles at one or two other loci of either L. peruvianum or L. esculentum origin. The map location of the Rg‐1 locus was refined further using a number of chromosome‐3‐specific RFLPs. The addition of new classical and RFLP linkage data to existing literature data and subsequent processing resulted in a revised and integrated map of tomato chromosome 3. From a morphological and physiological analysis of genotypes differing in Rg phenotype, it is concluded that the genetic component associated with regeneration determines the maintenance of morphogenetic competence and not the sensitivity to hormones.
Comparison between the erythrocyte and urinary Sda antigen distribution in a large number of individuals from Emilia‐Romagna, a region of northern Italy*
Authors: Conte R. , Serafini‐Cessi F.
Published: April 2008

Summary. In this study we found that the frequencies of Sda antigen on erythrocytes and urine of a large number of individuals from Emilia‐Romagna (a region of northern Italy) are 0·89 and 0·93, respectively. The hypothesis that the infection by pyelonephritogenic Escherichia coli strains with specific adhesions for the α2,3sialyl‐galactosyl structure might operate as selective agents for the high frequency of Sda antigen in distal renal cells is discussed.
Alloimmune neonatal neutropenia in Australian aboriginals: an unrecognized disorder?
Authors: Rodwell R. L. , Tudehope D. I. , O'Regan P. , Minchinton R. , Waters A. H.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Alloimmune neonatal neutropenia (ANN) is reported for the first time in two Australian aboriginals. Both infants displayed the typical clinical features of ANN with profound neutropenia which persisted for 7 weeks and only minor infectious episodes. However, management strategies differed for the two infants because in one case (complicated by uncertain paternity) serological confirmation of ANN was not obtained until after recovery of the infant's neutrophil count. The maternal antibodies could not be assigned to known neutrophil antigen specificities and a new antigen may be involved. The antibodies were reactive with > 99% of neutrophils in a Caucasian population. Aboriginals comprise 1% of the total population of Australia and 1–2% of the obstetric population at our institution. Thus, ANN may be an unrecognized disorder in this ethnic group and a possible cause of neonatal infection and mortality.
Erythroblast‐ and erythrocyte‐bound antibodies in α and β thalassaemia syndromes*
Authors: Wiener E. , Wanachiwanawin W. , Kotipan K. , Fucharoen S. , Wasi P. , Wickramasinghe S. N.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Thirty‐five Thai patients with various α‐thalassaemia (α‐thal 1/α‐thal 2, α‐thal 1/HbCS, HbCS/ HbCS) and yβ‐thalassaemia (β‐thal/HbE, severe and mild form, HbE/HbE) syndromes were examined for the presence of immunoglobulins and C3d on o‐tolidine positive erythroblasts in the bone marrow, and for the amounts of IgG of some specificities bound to circulating erythrocytes. In mild, but not in severe yβ‐thal/HbE and in α‐thalassaemia, the percentages of Ig‐positive erythroblasts were significantly higher than in controls and correlated well with the percentages of IgG‐positive erythroblasts. By contrast, the percentages of IgM and C3d positive erythroblasts were low and similar in thalassaemic and control marrows. A substantial proportion of thalassaemic patients showed more erythrocyte‐bound IgG than controls, but statistically significant elevations were seen only in severe β‐thal/HbE. Within a particular syndrome erythrocyte‐bound IgG was more abundant in splenectomized than non‐splenectomized subjects. It showed specificity for spectrin in some β‐thalassaemic patients and for band 3 protein in several individuals with α‐ or β‐thalassaemia. The results suggest that IgG antibodies play a role in the haemolysis of thalassaemia and that they are likely to be involved in the ineffective erythropoiesis in at least some of the syndromes studied.
A family showing inheritance of the Anton blood group antigen An Wj and independence of An Wj from Lutheran
Authors: Poole J. , Levene C. , Bennett M. , Sela R. , van Alphen L. , Spruellŝ P. J.
Published: April 2008

Summary. A 43‐year‐old Arab woman was found to be negative for the high incidence An Wj antigen and her serum contained anti‐An Wj. Two of her seven siblings were also An Wj‐negative, which provides evidence for the first time that the AnWj‐negative phenotype may be an inherited character. Blood groups of the family, in which the parents of the proposita are consanguineous, show that AnWj is not part of the ABO, Rh, MNSs, Kell, Duffy, Kidd, Xg and, notably, Lutheran blood group systems and neither is it X or Y linked.
Superfecundation identified by HLA, protein, and VNTR DNA polymorphisms
Authors: Wenk R. E. , Houtz T. , Chiafari F. A. , Brooks M.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Parentage analysis has revealed a high probability that a man accused of paternity is the biological father of a male child. The child in this study, however, was the twin of a female child who could not have been fathered by the accused man. The mother of the children subsequently accused a second, unrelated man, who was excluded from paternity of the boy, but was very probably the biological father of the girl.
Transmission of HCV infection by RIBA indeterminate and positive blood units
Authors: Kolho E. , Naukkarinen R. , Krusius T.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. A retrospective study was carried out on the recipients of 73 units of blood from 53 donors found reactive for anti‐HCV. The donors were screened with anti‐HCV enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA C‐100) and reactivity was confirmed with the first generation recombinant immunoblot assay (RIBA I). Fifty‐two patients were recipients of blood from donors reacting as RIBA I ‘indeterminate’ and 21 of blood from RIBA I ‘positive’ donors. Only three recipients (5.8%) from ‘indeterminate’ donors were anti‐HCV positive indicating that such donors are very seldom infectious. Eleven (52.4%) recipients from ‘positive’ donors had antibodies to HCV, indicating that not all RIBA‐positive donors are necessarily infectious. Pretransfusion samples of the seropositive recipients were unavailable. All samples were analysed with the first generation ELISA and with either the second‐generation ELISA or RIBA (RIBA II) in order to evaluate test sensitivity. RIBA II was more sensitive than RIBA I. One RIBA I indeterminate donor was positive by RIBA II. His recipient had antibodies to HCV. Twelve RIBA I indeterminate and three RIBA I positive donors were negative by RIBA II. All their recipients were anti‐HCV negative. The second‐generation ELISA was also shown to be more sensitive than ELISA C‐100. The second‐generation ELISA detected six confirmed anti‐HCV positive recipients who were negative by ELISA C‐100.
Quantitative study of starving platelets in a minimal medium: maintenance by acetate or plasma but not by glucose
Authors: Whisson M. E. , Nakhoul A. , Howman P. , Niu X. , Guppy M.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The requirement of donor platelets for fuels, plasma and calcium were studied using platelets washed, filtered to remove leucocytes and resuspended in a new glucose‐free minimal platelet storage medium with low citrate (3 mmol/1), low buffer capacity and no calcium. This is the first study of platelets stored without plasma, glucose or calcium and it was shown that platelets continued to aggregate with collagen plus adrenaline for 48 h and showed only a 50% fall in ‘swirl index’, an objective morphology score, after 3 days, showing that by these criteria human platelets do not require glucose. Sodium acetate extended the storage time by between 2 and 4 days, depending on the index parameter. This is the first evidence showing that failure of platelets in these conditions is at least partly due to exhaustion of fuel, and the first evidence that acetate prolongs in vitro survival. As little as 10% low‐glucose plasma extended the storage time, but it was no better than acetate. New observations using this system included a very rapid fall in pH during resuspension of the washed platelet pellet, a rising pH in the absence of added fuel and an increased pH with added acetate.
Human platelet antigen‐1 (Zw) typing using PCR‐RFLP
Authors: Andersen B. R. , Georgsen J. , Madsen H. O. , Taaning E. , Grunnet N. , Svejgaard A.
Published: April 2008

Summary. The agreement between human platelet antigen‐1 typing with polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) and typing with a serological ELISA method was evaluated. A total of 82 individuals were typed and an absolute correlation was found between the two typing methods. The PCR‐RFLP typing method could be clinically useful in a number of immunologically mediated platelet disorders, characterized by severe thrombocytopenia and in early prenatal diagnosis of neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia, in which serological methods are difficult to apply because of their dependency on access to platelets and access to well‐characterized anti‐HPA‐lb antisera.
Analysis of granulocyte‐reactive antibodies using an immunoassay based upon monoclonal‐antibody‐specific immobilization of granulocyte antigens
Authors: Bux J. , Kober B. , Kiefel V. , Mueller‐Eckhardt C.
Published: April 2008

Summary. To detect human granulocyte‐reactive antibodies, a glycoprotein‐specific enzyme immunoassay for platelet antibodies was adapted for the use of granulocytes as target cells. Peripheral blood granulocytes were simultaneously incubated with a monoclonal antibody (mAb) and the serum to be investigated. After solubilization, aliquots of the cell lysate were transferred to plastic tubes coated with goat anti‐mouse antibodies. Following immobilization of the trimolecular (mAb‐glycoprotein‐human antibody) complex it was detected by addition of enzyme‐labelled goat anti‐human antibodies using a luminescence technique. This assay allowed identification of different granulocyte‐reactive antibodies present in the same sample without the need for complicated absorption studies. Alloantibodies against HLA and the granulocyte‐specific NA antigens as well as isoantibodies against the Fc‐gamma‐receptor III (FcRIII) were detectable using mAb‐specific immobilization of granulocyte antigens (MAIGA). Binding of autoantibodies to the FcRIII and to the CD 11b/CD 18 complex could be shown.
Efficacy of donor screening for hepatitis C antibodies in preventing hepatitis C infection in multiply transfused patients
Authors: Brink N. S. , Mills W. , Chopra R. , Garson J. A. , Perrons C. J. , Deaville R. C. , Waite J. , Goldstone A. H. , Linch D. C. , Tedder R. S.
Published: April 2008

Summary. Patients undergoing therapy for haematological malignancies, who received blood products from United Kingdom (U.K.) donors who were unscreened for hepatitis C antibodies (anti‐HCV), have previously been shown to be at risk of acquiring HCV (Brink et al., 1993). Screening for anti‐HCV has recently been introduced into the U.K. and, in order to determine the efficacy of this in preventing transfusion‐acquired HCV infection, we monitored a group of patients for possible acute HCV infection for 1 year after the introduction of donor screening in the U.K. We identified no new cases of HCV infection that were acquired in the U.K. during this period, thus demonstrating the efficacy of the currently available anti‐HCV assays in preventing the majority of transfusion‐acquired HCV infections.
An evaluation of a gel technique for antibody screening compared with a conventional tube method
Authors: Pinkerton P. H. , Ward J. , Chan R. , Coovadia A. S.
Published: April 2008

Summary. An antihuman globulin (AHG) gel centrifugation technique (AHG gel test) employing microtubes (DiaMed®) has been compared for sensitivity in detection of unexpected antibodies with a saline indirect antiglobulin test (SIAT) which uses a cell‐to‐serum ratio between 1:120 and 1:200 and provides positive reactions at a concentration of a standard anti‐D of 2 ng/mL (0·01 IU/ml) or less. For most antibodies examined the AHG gel test was slightly less sensitive than the SIAT but both methods were capable of detecting anti‐D at concentrations of 2 ng/ml or less. The importance of defining in detail the conventional tube test method used in such evaluations is emphasized since previous reports of sensitivity of the DiaMed AHG gel test indicate considerable variation in technique and comparative sensitivity.
Storage of platelet concentrates harvested from blood collected into dextrose‐free preservative without agitation
Authors: Farrugia A. , Douglas S. , Karabagias K. , Gutowski S. , Ram A.
Published: April 2008

Summary. This study addresses the possibility of platelet quality being maintained during storage by an endogenous metabolic fuel, while avoiding dextrose‐induced lactate accumulation. This was achieved by harvesting platelet concentrates from blood donations collected into a dextrose‐free anticoagulant. Adequate maintenance of all metabolic and functional parameters was observed in platelets from blood collected into 4% citrate. The requirement for platelets stored in CPD plasma to be agitated during storage was confirmed, but agitation could be omitted for dextrose‐free platelets without increased lactate generation and a drop in pH. These results indicate that platelet concentrates from dextrose‐free blood may be stored without some of the constraints accompanying platelet storage in conventional media, and may thus result in improved delivery of this product.
Some concepts relating to the molecular genetic basis of certain MNS blood group antigens
Authors: Reid M. E.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. The unfolding story of genes encoding variant glycophorin molecules is already known to be more complicated than described here. The principles outlined provide a basis for understanding the fundamental events that occur in genes encoding the glyco‐phorins as well as genes encoding unrelated proteins carrying other blood group antigens. Over 20 different genes involving the GYPA and GYPB family have been described. These genes arise from gene rearrangements within a relatively short region. This hot spot of activity has inverted palindromic sequences, which are known to be sites for DNA recombination. Similar structures exist in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) where allelic diversity is a functional requisite. However, the significance of allelic diversity in the glycophorin gene family is not understood. The GYPA, GYPB and GYPE gene cluster is known to be prone to mutation by radiation because there is a high incidence of somatic mutation events in atomic bomb survivors, in people exposed to accidental radiation, in patients with Bloom's syndrome and in patients receiving radiation therapy. The mutation events were dose dependent: the greater the exposure, the greater proportion of red blood cells exhibited mutations. While it is known that MHC diversity protects against infection, the reason for glycophorin rearrangements remains to be determined.
Characterization of new murine monoclonal antibodies directed against glycophorins C and D
Authors: Loirat M. J. , Dahr W. , Muller J. Y. , Blanchard D.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. Six new murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) directed to the erythrocyte membrane glycophorins C (GPC) and D (GPD) were obtained from splenocytes of different BALB/c mice immunized with human red blood cells, and fully characterized. The mAbs were selected by agglutination tests with control and Gerbich‐negative cells, and by immunoblotting analysis. They showed specificity for the N‐terminal domain(s) of GPC (and GPD) and were classified into three categories by competitive analysis using 125Ilabelled antibodies and real‐time biospecific interaction. The first group (NaM10‐7G11, NaM70‐1G4 and NaM77‐7B6) compete for epitope(s) located at the N‐terminal portion of GPC. Agglutination‐inhibition tests revealed that the 7G11 epitope involves the amino group of Met1 and sialic acid residue(s) whereas the 1G4 and 7B6 epitopes contain O‐glycans. NaM89‐2G11 belongs to a second group; its epitope is located in a region including Glu17, Asp19 and (an) O‐glycan(s). The third group comprises mAbs NaM19‐3C4 and NaM98‐3Cl which bind to both GPC and GPD in proximity of the binding site of human anti‐Ge:3 antibodies.

In addition, mAb 3C4 (anti‐GPC/GPD) was found to bind to approximately 125 000 sites per red cell. Considering that the ratio of the GPC to GPD is about 3–4 to 1, the number of GPC and GPD molecules was estimated as 95 000 and 35 000, respectively.
Antenatal management of fetomaternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia—report of 15 affected pregnancies
Authors: Murphy M. F. , Waters A. H. , Doughty H. A. , Hambley H. , Mibashan R. S. , Nicolaides K. , Rodeck C. H.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. The recognition that spontaneous intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) may occur in utero in fetomaternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FMAIT) led us to attempt to prevent this in 15 pregnancies of 11 women who had previously affected infants with FMAIT due to anti‐HPA‐la. The antenatal management included fetal platelet transfusions and maternal steroids and/or high‐dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIgG).

In the first pregnancy, ICH occurred between 32 and 35 weeks' gestation before any treatment had been given, emphasizing the need for earlier intervention.

Five of the 14 subsequent pregnancies in this study were considered to be severely affected (severe haemorrhagic complications in a previous infant and initial fetal platelet count < 20 times 109/L in this study); four were managed successfully with weekly fetal platelet transfusions started between 18 and 29 weeks and continued until delivery at 33–35 weeks, and one severely affected case who was referred at 36 weeks was managed successfully with a single platelet transfusion prior to delivery.

Five pregnancies were considered to be mildly affected (previous infants were unaffected by severe bleeding and initial fetal platelet count > 50 times 109/L in this study). The platelet counts were maintained in one case with steroids and in three with IVIgG without the need for repeated platelet transfusions, but in the fifth the fetal platelet count fell despite steroids and IVIgG and serial platelet transfusions were required.

Four pregnancies were unsuccessful; two pregnancies were terminated after severe ICH occurred at an early stage before fetal blood sampling had been carried out, one fetus died after the mother had a severe fall despite the successful initiation of fetal platelet transfusions and one died due to a cord haematoma which occurred at the time of the initial fetal blood sampling.

The optimal management of FMAIT to reduce the risk of antenatal ICH remains uncertain. Steroids and IVIgG may be effective in some mildly affected cases but serial fetal platelet transfusions are the preferred therapy for those who are severely affected.
Rapid detection of Rh(D)‐ or K‐positive fetal red cells in chorion villus samples by a flow cytometric technique
Authors: Nelson M. , Forsyth C. , Popp H. , Gibson J.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. Rh(D)‐ and K‐negative women who have become severely isoimmunized by pregnancy are at risk of fetal loss or damage in subsequent pregnancies. A flow cytometric method is described whereby the presence of Rh(D) or K antigen on fetal erythrocytes may be determined using chorion villus samples taken during the first trimester. This method has the advantage of speed and sensitivity with results being available within 2h. Decisions as to management of the pregnancy or termination may thus be made with minimal delay.
Functional assessment of therapeutic anti‐D immunoglobulin using Fc‐mediated assays
Authors: Armstrong‐Fisher S. S. , Sweeney G. M. , Greiss M. A. , Urbaniak S. J.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. Therapeutic anti‐D immunoglobulin preparations issued by the Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, between 1980 and 1986, were evaluated using in‐vitro Fc‐mediated functional tests that reflect potential in‐vivo mechanisms of specific red cell destruction and clearance. All batches tested were found to: (a) contain anti‐D of mainly IgGl subclass and lesser amounts of IgG3; (b) mediate lymphocyte and monocyte rosetting; and (c) produce lytic activity in both K cell and monocyte ADCC. The functional activity of the therapeutic immunoglobulin preparations over this period of production had not altered despite increased plasma contributions latterly to the pool from deliberately immunized male donors. This is the first in‐vitro study of the Fc‐mediated function of therapeutic polyclonal anti‐D preparations. As these preparations were clinically effective in the prophylactic anti‐D programme, such bioassays of FcRI/II and FcRIII activity are justified for the future evaluation of immune plasma before blending for fractionation and production of therapeutic anti‐D immunoglobulin.
Development and evaluation of a competitive radioimmunoassay using monoclonal antibodies against Rh D for determining anti‐D potency of clinical grade immunoglobulin preparations
Authors: Thorpe S. J. , Heath A. B.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. A competitive radioimmunoassay using monoclonal anti‐D antibodies has been developed for measuring anti‐D activity in prophylactic immunoglobulin preparations. The assay is totally specific for anti‐D, reproducible and gives potency estimates comparable to those determined using autoanalyser methodology. The assay also provides a means for comparing different batches of monoclonal anti‐D preparations for red‐cell binding activity.
Platelet phenotyping in carriers for Glanzmann's thrombasthenia: a simple screening test for assessment of the molecular defect
Authors: Morel‐Kopp M‐C. , Clemenceau S. , Schlegel N. , Lecompte T. , Aurousseau M‐H. , Kaplan C.
Published: April 2008

SUMMARY. Glanzmann's thrombasthenia (GT) is a recessive autosomal bleeding disorder characterized by the abnormality of aggregation due to a platelet glycoprotein (GP) IIb‐IIIa deficiency or a dysfunctional complex. Molecular abnormalities have been localized on the gene coding for GP IIb or IIIa. The aim of our work was an attempt to obtain indirectly information on the putative localization of the molecular defect in patients with GT type I or II by the determination of the HPA‐1 (GP IIIa) and HPA‐3 (GP IIb) alloantigenic systems' expression in GT carriers. If GT results from a defective GP IIb gene, a GT carrier would appear homozygous for HPA‐3 by serology, because the normal gene will be expressed while the abnormal GP IIb gene product will not be present. Conversely, if the abnormality is in the GP IIIa gene, such an individual would appear homozygous for HPA‐1. Therefore, the heterozygous status for HPA would result from the normal expression of the two genes for the considered alloantigenic system. Among the four families studied with informative members, our presumptions were strengthened by the preliminary genetic results in one family showing a mutation in the GP IIb gene. Thus, serology could be a simple screening test for the possible defective gene responsible for GT allowing molecular investigation focusing only on GP IIb or IIIa gene.
The incidence of anti‐Wraand Wraantigen in blood donors and hospital patients
Authors: Wallis J. P. , Hedley G. P. , Charlton D. , Parker P. C. , Scott Y. , Chapman C. E.
Published: April 2008

Summary. A retrospective study of positive 37°C indirect antiglobulin test IAT) for compatibility following negative antibody screens in a hospital laboratory revealed an unexpectedly high incidence of Wra‐incompatible units. Over the course of 1 month 1112 routine patients' samples containing no other atypical antibodies were tested for the presence of anti‐Wra. Anti‐Wrawas found in 88 patients, an incidence of 7.9%. Testing of 5098 healthy blood donor samples found 54 donors positive for anti‐Wra, an incidence of 1–06%. A survey of 5253 healthy blood donor samples for Wraantigen found only two Wra‐positive samples, suggesting an incidence between 1 in 1000 and < 1 in 10000. The significance of this finding is discussed in relation to the continuing use of an IAT compatibility test.