bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
THE WEIGHT OF WATER: A NEW LOOK AT PRE-HISPANIC PUUC MAYA WATER RESERVOIRS
Authors: Isendahl Christian 
Published: October 2011

AbstractIn the Maya lowlands ancient water management was multi-componential, diverse across space, and shifted over time. In the seasonally dry Puuc region of the northwestern Yucatan Peninsula, large reservoirs dominated water management during the Late Classic to Early Postclassic periods (a.d.600–1250). Research reported here suggests that reservoirs were central components of Puuc urban settlements and that natural depressions—from which water reservoirs could be made in the Puuc terrain—were key settlement attractors in the region. In particular, new evidence of the pre-Hispanic construction of a berm of monumental proportions along the perimeter of a water reservoir at Xuch—a Late Classic to Early Postclassic Puuc Maya agro-urban settlement in Campeche, Mexico—stresses the political, economic, and symbolic importance of water and water reservoirs in pre-Hispanic Maya communities, previously demonstrated by colleagues working elsewhere in the Maya lowlands. This article discusses the “weight” of water reservoirs in Classic period Puuc Maya landscapes, adds to the literature on water management in other regions of the Maya lowlands, and explores aspects of economy, power, environment, and cosmology in water management systems of the dry regions of the northern Yucatan Peninsula.
EVOLUTION OF THE MESOAMERICAN MOTHER CULTURE
Authors: Neff Hector 
Published: October 2011

AbstractAn ongoing debate about Early Formative cultural elaboration in Mesoamerica is based largely on claims about where innovations originated and when different regions influenced each other. One view is that Gulf lowland populations called “Olmec” by archaeologists made a number of key innovations and that their influence on contemporary societies stimulated the rise of Mesoamerican civilization. Another view is that multiple regions participated equally and all made innovations that became the legacy of later Mesoamerican societies. Additional empirical work will help resolve some of the issues raised by this debate, as Cheetham and Blomster (2010) have recently suggested in this journal. Explicit theory can also help move the discussion forward.
Improvement of black pepper.
Authors: Krishnamoorthy B. , Parthasarathy V. A. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract

Black pepper (
Piper nigrum
L., Piperaceae) - 'King of spices' - is one of the oldest spices known. It originated in the humid, tropical evergreen forests of Western Ghats of India and is now grown in more than 25 countries, particularly in tropics. Important growing locations are India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brazil, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and China. There are several production constraints faced by farmers seeking to achieve sustainable yield. Global climate change, inadequate water availability, labour scarcity, coupled with biotic stresses such as epidemic diseases and pests, are the important challenges to be addressed by scientists. In addition to these, consumers expect clean and high-quality spices. In this context, the goal of improvement of black pepper should be for bold berries with high quality and research should also be oriented to producing crop with lower levels of pesticide residues, contamination with adulterants and mycotoxins. The genetic resources of this crop in India are a great strength. This germplasm, containing local cultivars, wild forms collected from the area of origin and related species are a wealth to be utilized for crop improvement. Cultivar diversity is one of the principal components of diversity in black pepper and over 100 black pepper cultivars are established in India. The main breeding objectives are high yield, with resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, coupled with good quality parameters. The paper deals with breeding characteristics of black pepper and effective breeding strategy. Black pepper is a vine, predominantly self-pollinated and commercially cultivated through orthotropic stem cuttings. Conventionally, clonal selection is the main breeding method and historically it was adopted by the British for introducing the crop into their colonial countries, and this practice continued for a long time. Each producing country has its own selections. Research efforts have been focused on hybridization and polyploid breeding and micropropagation. Panniyur 1 is a famous hybrid and it is cultivated in many production centres. Now molecular approaches are used to develop input-responsive varieties with biotic and abiotic resistance for higher yield and quality.
Accelerated lambing. Part 2. Increasing the frequency of pregnancy in sheep.
Authors: Hunter G. L. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
This presentation has been written for those who may be considering practical intensification of sheep production and need information about its implications, potential and hazards, as well as for those with interests in this field of research. The literature on factors affecting accelerated lambing is reviewed, including seasonal breeding and the photoperiod, the involuting uterus, effects of lactation and the age of lambs at weaning, some effects of nutrition and of the introduction of rams. Systems developed in the USA, Scotland, South Africa and elsewhere are described and evaluated. Finally, the importance for flock managers of the advice of those with access to developments in this area is illustrated. An index is provided.
A brief history of mammalian coat colour genetics.
Authors: Lauvergne J. J. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract

The study of coat colour genes of mammals can be traced back to the rediscovery of Mendel's laws in 1900. A phenotypic homology of coat colour loci based on a phenotypic similarity of allelic series has been demonstrated and is known as
comparative coat colour genetics
. This homology has been verified by molecular genetics. Loci controlling coat colour in mammals are numerous: more than 280 have been discovered in genetic analysis of the mouse, the leading laboratory species. Loci for which mutants have been kept in breeding species (mainly farm animals) are less numerous because only viable alleles have been saved. The colour loci are highly pleiotropic, being involved not only in coat colour pigmentation but also in many other biological processes. The comparative study of DNA chains of numerous variants in several species may help to follow evolution at the locus level in mammals. The colour mutants that segregate in those domesticated populations termed the
primary populations
may be used as markers to follow genetic dynamics after domestication.
Flowering time control in annual legumes: prospects in a changing global climate.
Authors: Nelson M. N. , Berger J. D. , Erskine W. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Precise control of the time of flowering is critically important for plants in natural and agricultural settings. This is achieved through complex interactions of external environmental cues with internal molecular signalling pathways. In this review, we summarize current understanding of floral induction pathways in model and legume crop species. We identify gaps in our mechanistic understanding of floral induction with special reference to the photothermal phenological model that is underpinned by a wealth of empirical data in many legume crop species. We discuss the importance of matching phenology with agricultural environment, using three case studies to highlight the challenges and opportunities posed by climate change expected over the coming decades. We discuss the significant role that gene-based, diagnostic markers could play in the phenological characterization of breeding populations. We conclude by outlining research priorities that will enable us to meet the challenges of adapting our crops to changing environments.
Prediction of plant diseases through modelling and monitoring airborne pathogen dispersal.
Authors: Pan Z. , Li X. , Yang X. B. , Andrade D. , Xue L. , McKinney N. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Many plant diseases that spread by airborne inocula have had major economic and social impacts worldwide. Plant diseases account for 16% of the yield losses in eight of the most important food and cash crops. Numerical models and monitoring networks have been developed to forecast the spread of these diseases both locally and over long distances. The epidemics of these airborne diseases depend on production of infectious propagules, their aerial transport, specific infectiousness and finally their reproduction. This article first reviews current understanding of these processes with an emphasis on their treatments in disease forecast models as well as the uncertainties the treatments introduce. Then we discuss the concepts and frameworks of forecast models that are broadly classified into epidemic models and aerobiological models and, finally, we present an example of the application of these modelling approaches to soybean rust forecasting.
Anthocyanins and weight loss.
Authors: Prior R. L. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
This review evaluates the available scientific literature relative to anthocyanins and weight loss and/or obesity with mention of other effects of anthocyanins on pathologies that are closely related to obesity. Although there is considerable popular press coverage concerning anthocyanins and weight loss, there are no controlled clinical trials directly supporting beneficial effects of anthocyanins in a weight loss programme. Purified anthocyanins from varying sources have been shown to decrease lipid deposition in rodent models of obesity. However, in the few studies where the anthocyanins were consumed as a part of the whole food or berry, anti-obesity effects have not generally been observed. An exception is the case of whole blueberry, where effects were observed that protected against some of the pathologies associated with obesity including inflammation. Studies reviewed have provided an overview of the gene expression profiles in human and rodent adipocytes treated with anthocyanins. Anthocyanins have been shown to regulate adipocytokine gene expression, to ameliorate adipocyte dysfunction related to obesity and diabetes and merit further investigation. Additional research is needed to understand mechanisms whereby anthocyanins might influence obesity. Alterations in lipogenesis and lipolysis in adipose tissue as well as in numerous adipokine and cytokine signalling pathways have been suggested to explain the effects of anthocyanins on the development of obesity.
Assessing risk across the spectrum of weed management.
Authors: Downey P. O. , Johnson S. B. , Virtue J. G. , Williams P. A. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
A range of risk assessment systems has been applied to the field of weed management globally to address the ever-growing problem of plant invasions. Here, we review the development of risk assessment and management systems across the spectrum of weed management, spanning pre-border (quarantine), post-border (generally aimed at eradication and containment) and the protection of environmental assets. These systems have been developed using broader risk management frameworks, enabling consistency with a range of other agreements and strategies (e.g. pre-border with international phytosanitary measures). While a weed risk assessment system (pre-border) has been developed and widely tested/adopted, post-border systems, especially for established weed species, have been more varied in their nature and application. For example, a triage system has been outlined only recently for managing the current risks of established or widespread weeds to native species. This review also highlights a range of other weed management areas in which risk assessment systems have been applied (e.g. invasion pathways) and where further progress is needed in the current systems to make them more robust. By assessing risk across the spectrum of weed management, we have demonstrated the role of each system and how they link together to address the majority of the spectrum. The application of risk assessment procedures has helped to create systems that aim to prevent, eradicate, contain and protect assets from the effects of weed invasions, the legacy of which will be long lasting, globally.
Myths based in science and medicine - how they initiate, propagate and the role of peer-review research in dispelling them.
Authors: Vetter R. S. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Myths are an integral aspect of the psychology of human culture. They function to help explain the mysteries of the vast world and beyond, providing explanations for natural phenomena, alleviating anxiety and attempting to make sense of a complex world. Although they abound in the general population, myths also occur in science and medicine such that their development within these specialized fields of assumed fastidiously derived knowledge can sometimes expand into the general public where the myths gain great acceptance. However, some of these myths are based on incorrect information and are honed or pushed forward by the psychological tendencies of humans to want explanations for what we see. The unknown is unsettling and possibly threatening, hence, an explanation, no matter how specious, functions to fill a void. There are many psychological and medical mechanisms that generate and propagate myths and prevent their destruction. Nonetheless, by subjecting these myths to the scientific process of falsifiability, the incorrect ones can be assailed and hopefully replaced with information that is more evidence based. After a general review of the psychology of myths and how science offers a regulating influence, several examples of myths are presented from the world of spiders. These spider myths differ in their origins, how they were propagated and how they were falsified by using the scientific process. Disproving a myth is merely one step; getting the believers of the myth to rescind their line of thinking is yet another matter.
Evaluating the benefits and risks of neutering dogs and cats.
Authors: McKenzie B. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Neutering consists of removing the source of the hormones that control reproduction and determine secondary sexual characteristics. In dogs and cats, this is most commonly accomplished by castration or ovariectomy. While the primary purpose of neutering is to prevent reproduction, the procedure may have other physical and behavioural effects. Epidemiologic research has identified many beneficial and harmful outcomes associated with neutering. A definitively causal relationship between these outcomes and neuter status cannot be accepted without consistent evidence from multiple studies of adequate size and quality. However, consideration of the possible health consequences of these associations is warranted when offering owners recommendations concerning neutering. An evidence-based decision about neutering a particular pet requires integrating relevant research data with the veterinarian's clinical expertise and the needs and circumstances of the patient and owner. It is impossible to precisely predict the outcome of neutering for any individual. However, existing research does allow some generalization about the magnitude and clinical importance of specific risks and benefits. Overall, it appears justified to recommend spaying all females not intended for breeding, because the procedure is more likely to prevent rather than cause disease. In male dogs, the benefits of castration are not so clearly greater than the risks. The evidence is also mixed regarding the risks and benefits of neutering dogs before 5-6 months of age, and so no strong recommendation for or against the practice can be made. However, it is clear that spaying female dogs before their first heat is preferable to spaying them later.
Food diaries: use of new technology versus the written record.
Authors: Yoshiuchi K. , Inada S. , Kikuchi H. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
In this article, we review the recent literature on the use of personal digital assistant (PDA)-based diaries for self-monitoring of food intake. PDA-based food diaries may overcome some of the disadvantages of traditional paper-and-pencil diaries. For example, the date and time of recording can be stamped in the PDA at each entry, while paper-and-pencil diaries make it virtually impossible for clinicians or researchers to determine when data were entered; therefore, the date-and-time-stamp may improve the validity of the diary data. In addition, PDA-based food diaries do not require the subjects to look up nutrient values and calculate subtotal and total nutrient values for each meal. However, the accuracy of use of a PDA-based food diary has been validated only for a few applications, and several issues remain to be addressed. Many studies on adherence to the use of PDA-based food diaries have found that an ideal level of adherence was not achieved. Furthermore, the advantage of PDA-based food diaries over paper-and-pencil diaries has not been confirmed, although several pilot studies have shown the value of PDA-based diaries for weight loss and improvement of diabetes control. Therefore, future studies are needed to develop strategies to improve adherence and to establish the efficacy of PDA-based food diaries.
Contract law and wind energy on farms.
Authors: Geyer L. L. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Landowners may approach or may be approached by a wind development company to contract a portion of their land for a wind farm. Wind farms now produce 2% of electric energy needs. Some believe wind energy could provide 20% of our electrical needs. Touted as 'green' energy, wind farms have received tax incentives to build. But wind farms require two of a landowner's assets: wind and an access to land for turbines and transmission wire placement. As in any contractual arrangements, both parties must understand the terms of the contract and the pitfalls of the contract. The money for the farm may glitter until the landowner and their lawyer reviews the hundreds of contractual provisions that must be resolved. Mistakes on the part of parties can result in a transfer of wind or land rights for all time and allow practices that could cost the landowner money and land. Landowners must do their homework and review over 200 issues that can make or break a financial deal. Not all land is worthy of a wind turbine and not all developers have the ability to address the legal needs of the landowner. Wind farms can be forever. Never sign your name to a one-way prison ship or a wind farm contract without consulting your lawyer.
Molecular communication between plant pollen and pistils.
Authors: Allen A. M. , Hiscock S. J. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
The pollen-pistil interaction comprises a diverse set of simultaneous and interacting processes between the male gametophyte (pollen) and the female reproductive organ (pistil). Determining the molecular basis of the cross-talk that occurs between pollen and pistil tissues during pollination is vital, because the world's population depends on the biological process of plant fertilization for food, both directly (cereal crops) and indirectly (the consumption of animals fed on fodder crops). Recently, several advances have been made to identify molecules that mediate specific events during the pollen-pistil interaction. However, despite the identification of an increasing number of molecules implicated in pollen-pistil interactions there are few examples of conserved genes between species, suggesting that different taxa have employed alternative molecular mechanisms for achieving successful reproduction, as has been illustrated by the diverse range of self-incompatibility (SI) mechanisms identified to date.
Tackling dog obesity by tackling owner attitudes.
Authors: Bland I. , Hill J. 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Obesity is a growing welfare and health problem facing companion animals. While obesity has underlying genetic and environmental causes, the dog owners' almost complete control of food and exercise mean that any stratagem to control or treat the condition must include and allow for the attitudes of the owner. A greater understanding of how owner attitudes contribute both to the cause and prevention/treatment of dog obesity is required. Treatment and prevention regimes must involve education and constant, measurable outcomes, similar to the programmes seen in human obesity management.
Who's Your Momma? Recognizing Maternal Origin of Juvenile Steelhead Using Injections of Strontium Chloride to Create Transgenerational Marks
Authors: Shippentower Gene E. , Schreck Carl B. , Heppell Scott A. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractWe sought to determine whether a strontium chloride injection could be used to create a transgenerational otolith mark in steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss. Two strontium injection trials and a survey of strontium: calcium (Sr:Ca) ratios in juvenile steelhead from various steelhead hatcheries were conducted to test the feasibility of the technique. In both trials, progeny of fish injected with strontium had significantly higher Sr:Ca ratios in the primordial region of their otoliths, as measured by an electron wavelength dispersive microprobe. In trial 1, the 5,000‐mg/L treatment level showed that 56.8% of the otoliths were correctly classified, 12.2% being misclassified as belonging to the 0‐mg/L treatment. In trial 2, the 20,000‐mg/L treatment level showed that 30.8% of the otoliths were correctly classified, 13.5% being misclassified as belonging to the 0‐mg/L treatment. There were no differences in the fertilization rates of eggs or survival rates of fry between the treatment and control groups. The Sr:Ca ratios in otoliths collected from various hatchery populations of steelhead varied and were greater than those found in otoliths from control fish in both of our injection trials. This study suggests that the marking technique led to recognizable increases in Sr:Ca ratios in some otoliths collected from fry produced by injected females. Not all progeny showed such increases, however, suggesting that the method holds promise but requires further refinement to reduce variation. Overall, there was a correct classification of about 40% across all treatments and trials; the variation in Sr:Ca ratios found among experimental trials and hatcheries indicates that care must be taken if the technique is employed where fish from more than one hatchery could be involved.