bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Size, peripheral auditory tuning and target strength in noctuid moths
Authors: Norman Alex P. , Jones Gareth 
Published: September 2010

SummaryWe investigated relationships among body size, the frequency of peak auditory sensitivity (best frequency) and acoustic conspicuousness (measured as target strength) to simulated bat echolocation calls in a range of tympanate moths (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Audiograms of Amphipyra pyramidea Linnaeus, Agrotis exclamationis Linnaeus, Omphaloscelis lunosa Haworth and Xestia xanthographa Denis and Schiffermüller are described for the first time. Best frequency was inversely related to forewing length, an index of body size. Models predict that target strength falls off rapidly once wavelength (1/frequency) exceeds some defined feature of target size (e.g. circumference for spheres). We investigated how target strength varies in relation to target size and emitted frequency for simple targets (paper discs) and for moths. Target strength fell rapidly when target radius/wavelength < 2 for paper discs of similar size to many noctuid moths. Target strength fell rapidly below wing‐length/wavelength ratios of 2 in relatively small (O. lunosa, wing‐length = 15.2 ± 0.4 mm, best frequency = 45 kHz) and large (N. pronuba, wing‐length = 24.6 ± 0.8 mm, best frequency = 15 kHz) noctuid species, and decreased rapidly at frequencies below 25 kHz in both species. These target strengths were used to predict the detection distance of the moths by bat sonar between 10 and 55 kHz. Predicted detection distances of both species were maximal for fictive call frequencies of 20 kHz, and were reduced at lower frequencies due to decreased target strength and at higher frequencies by excess atmospheric attenuation. Both relatively large and small noctuid moths are therefore strong acoustic targets to bats that echolocate at relatively low frequencies. Bats may emit allotonic calls at low frequency because the costs of reduced detection range are smaller than the benefits of reduced audibility to moths. Because best frequency scales with body size and maximum detection distance is not very sensitive to body size, noctuid moths in the size range examined do not necessarily have best frequencies that would match the call frequencies of bats that may detect the moths at greatest distance precisely. Hence, best frequency may be constrained in part by body size.
Chemical characterization of the alarm pheromone in the venom of Polybia occidentalis and of volatiles from the venom of P. sericea
Authors: Dani F. R. , Jeanne R. L. , Clarke S. R. , Jones G. R. , Morgan E. D. , Francke W. , Turillazzi S. 
Published: September 2010

SummaryThe contents of the venom sacs of the two epiponine species Polybia occidentalis (Olivier) and P. sericea (Olivier) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) have been analysed by GC‐MS for their volatile constituents. The mixture of volatiles was found to be very diverse in both the species. The spiroacetal (E,E)‐2,8‐dimethyl‐1,7‐dioxaspiro[5.5]undecane, was present in both species and was the major component in P. occidentalis, where it was determined to show (2S,6R,8S)‐configuration. An enantiomerically pure synthetic sample was tested in field bioassays on P. occidentalis colonies and was clearly shown to elicit alarm behaviour.
Dietary effects on growth, reproduction, body composition and stress resistance in the terrestrial isopodsOniscus asellusandPorcellio scaber
Authors: Lavy D. , Van Rijn M. J. , Zoomer H. R. , Verhoef H. A. 
Published: September 2010

SummaryThe effect of differences in food composition on growth, body composition and cold tolerance of the isopodsPorcellio scaber(Latreille) andOniscus asellus(L.) has been studied. The effect on reproduction ofP. scaberwas included. Total lipid and protein content remained the same inO. asellus, given food with a nitrogen content of 2.4, 2.5, 2.8 or 3.1% for 8 weeks. Those fed on 3.1% N gained significantly more weight than those fed on 2.4, 2.5 or 2.8% N. Cold tolerance after a period of low temperature acclimation could not be tested, due to high mortality at the subzero treatment. Haemolymph osmolality increased after the winter acclimation for all food treatments. JuvenileP. scaber, given food of 1.8, 2.5 or 3.1% N, showed no difference in growth over 18 weeks, nor in body composition over 14 weeks. Diet did not influence cold tolerance ability and haemolymph osmolality remained the same with changing cold tolerance of the animals. Gravid females ofP. scaberwere separated to examine the effect of diet on reproduction. Diet did not influence the number of juveniles, nor their weight. In all food treatments, a significant correlation was found between the weight of the female and the number and weight of her offspring.
Immunological evidence for FGLamide‐ and W2W9‐allatostatins in the ovary of Gryllus bimaculatus (Ensifera, Gryllidae)
Authors: Witek Günther , Hoffmann Klaus H. 
Published: September 2010

SummaryUsing polyclonal antisera to Gryllus bimaculatus allatostatin A1 (FGLamide) and B1 (W2W9‐amide), two sensitive and specific competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were developed, which allowed detection of A‐ and B‐allatostatin‐like immunoreactivity in extracts of ovaries and partially purified chromatography (HPLC) fractions. Immuno‐positive HPLC fractions inhibited biosynthesis of Juvenile Hormone in vitro in the rapid partition assay. Both antisera were also used to immunolocalize A‐ and B‐allatostatin epitopes in the ovary of larval and adult crickets. A‐ and B‐allatostatin immunoreactivity appeared in the cortical cytoplasm of the oocytes at the anterior cell poles. Controls treated with the pre‐immune sera or with antisera preadsorbed onto the respective peptides coupled to a solid phase support did not stain. There was no staining in any neural structures within the ovary.
The value of three cereal aphid species as food for a generalist predator
Authors: Bilde Trine , Toft Søren 
Published: September 2010

SummaryThe value of the cereal aphid speciesMetopolophium dirhodum(Wlk.), Sitobion avenae(F.) andRhopalosiphum padi(L.) as prey for the linyphiid spiderErigone atra(Bl.) was assessed. Fecundity of females was determined for spiders fed on eight experimental diets: three single‐species aphid diets, a mixed diet of all three aphid species, three mixed diets with each aphid species in combination with fruit fliesDrosophila melanogaster(Meig.), and pureD. melanogasteras a high quality comparison diet. The development and survival of first‐instar juveniles fed on three diets of single aphid species, and on a diet of Collembola were compared with those subjected to starvation. Prey value for adult females was assessed by egg production, hatching success and offspring size.In pure diets all three aphid species were of low value to the spiders, causing a rapid decline in egg production and supporting no growth of significance of first‐instar juveniles. No difference in value of aphid species of single‐species aphid diets was found in the fecundity experiment, while a ranking of aphid species ofM. dirhodum> R. padi> S. avenaewas revealed in the survivorship experiment. A mixed‐aphid diet was not found to be advantageous compared with single‐species aphid diets, and no advantage of including aphids in mixed diets with fruit flies was found.Metopolophium dirhodumandR. padiwere neutral in mixed diets, while a diet ofS. avenaeand fruit flies caused reduced egg production compared with the pure diet of fruit flies, revealing a toxic effect ofS. avenaeon the spider. The value‐ranking of aphid species in mixed diets was similar to that of single‐species diets. A similar ranking of aphid species was found for different fitness parameters (fecundity of adult females and development of juveniles).A ranking of aphids by offspring size of mothers on aphid‐only diets wasS. avenae> M. dirhodum> R. padi. All aphid‐fruit fly diets resulted in larger offspring than a diet of onlyD. melanogaster, with the overall largest offspring being produced on the diet ofM. dirhodumand fruit flies.
Structural similarity and variety at the tips in a wide range of strike–slip faults: a review
Authors: Kim Young‐Seog , Sanderson David J. 
Published: September 2010

AbstractStrike–slip faults are often accompanied by a variety of structures, particularly at their tips. The zones of additional fracturing are classified as tip‐damage zones. These zones can be subdivided into several different damage patterns based on the nature and orientation of faults and fractures developed. Damage zones at the ends of small strike–slip faults (mode II tips) develop wing cracks, horsetail splays, antithetic faults, synthetic branch faults and solution surfaces. Similar tip‐damage patterns are also commonly observed at larger (regional) scales, but with a dominance of faulting over tensile cracks and solution surfaces. Wing cracks and horsetail splays developed at small‐scale faults are replaced by normal faults in large‐scale faults. Antithetic faults and synthetic branch faults are observed at small and large scales. Thrust faults are developed at large scales, in a similar pattern to solution surfaces at a small scale. All these structures may show slightly different angular relationships to the master fault at small and large scale, but develop in response similar stress distribution and mechanics around the fault. Thus, mode II tip‐damage zones show similar patterns over a wide range of fault scales.
Focused subaerial erosion during ridge subduction: impact on the geomorphology in south‐central Peru
Authors: Wipf Martin , Zeilinger Gerold , Seward Diane , Schlunegger Fritz 
Published: September 2010

AbstractData obtained from low‐temperature thermochronometers such as apatite fission‐track and (U‐Th)/He are combined with morphometric information extracted from digital elevation models. This combination shows several geomorphological effects that are caused by the migration of the Nazca Ridge along the Peruvian Coastal margin. Offshore, the depth of the deep‐sea trench decreases by ∼1500 m where the Nazca Ridge collides with the continental South American Plate. Onshore the ridge causes an uplift of at least 800 m in the Coastal Cordillera. This uplift results in a westward shift of the coastline thereby focusing and increasing erosion in the uplifted areas. At the trailing edge, the shelf subsides and the coastline retreats eastwards, producing at least part of the indentation observed between Paita and Pisco. The Ridge acts therefore like a wave uplifting the Andean margin as it traverses inland and southwards leaving a clear fingerprint on the topographic evolution of the Peruvian coastal margin.
Relative fracture velocities based on fundamental characteristics of joint‐surface morphology
Authors: Weinberger Ram , Bahat Dov 
Published: September 2010

AbstractTwo different joint surface morphologies, plumes and rib marks, characterize joint surfaces, but the mechanical conditions that lead to the formation of either of the morphologies are not understood well. We studied two orthogonal joint sets that cut the same Santonian chalk beds in the Judea Desert, Israel. Joints of the J1 set are systematic, relatively long, characterized by almost exclusively by plumes and predate the shorter, non‐systematic joints of the J2 set that are characterized by rib marks. Joints of the J1 set formed at high stress during deformation of the Syrian Arc folding in the Late Senonian. Joints of the J2 set formed at lower stress that occurred because of stress relaxation after the formation of the J1 joints. A mechanical analysis indicates that the J1 joints propagated at subcritical velocities several orders of magnitude faster than the J2 joints. Based on previously published data of laboratory tests, the plumes and the rib marks are semi‐quantitatively placed on the subcritical part of the fracture velocity vs. stress‐intensity factor diagram.
Molecular Characterization of FUT1(H) Gene in the Bombay Phenotypes Detected in India
Authors: Vasantha K , Gorakshakar Ajit , Colah Roshan , Kulkarni Swati , Mohanty Dipika 
Published: September 2010

Bombay phenotype, one of the rare blood group was discovered in India in 1952 by Bhende et al. The frequency of this in Western India is about 1 in 7600.Aim  Our Institute gets referral samples from various hospitals and blood banks with problems in grouping and cross matching for identification of blood group and atypical antibodies. We have identified many Bombay phenotype cases out of these by serological procedures. We undertook molecular characterization of FUTI(H) gene on this large series of Bombay phenotypes to see whether the earlier reported mutations on Indian Bombay phenotypes from South Africa and Reunion Island are present in our population or not.Method  Serological confirmations of Bombay phenotypes was done as per standard procedures. Thirty of these serologically confirmed samples were undertaken for molecular characterization of FUTI(H) gene. DNA extraction was done from these samples and FUTI(H) gene was amplified by performing nested PCR followed by digestion with restriction enzyme Nae 1 to screen for T 725 G mutation. The digested product was run on agarose gel electrophoresis and analysed.Result  Out of these 30 samples 27 samples were homozygous for T 725 G mutation and one sample was heterozygous for T 725 G mutation which serologically had shown absence of H antigen on red cells and two samples did not show the presence of this mutation.Conclusion  The T 725 G mutation of FUTI(H) gene appears to be the common mutation amongst the Bombay phenotypes detected in India.
The Quantitation of D Antigenic Sites in Partial D and Weak D Variants by Flowcytometry
Authors: Kulkarni Swati , Mohanty Dipika , Gupte Snehalata , Vasantha K , Joshi Sanmukh 
Published: September 2010

Aim  The aim of the study is to quantitate D antigenic sites on RBC in weak D and partial D variants in Indian population by flowcytometric method.Method  Dantigenic sites were estimated in 48 cases of partial D, eight cases of weak D (identified by serological methods) and normal Rh phenotypes subjects by flowcytometric technique. The indirect immunoflourescence method was employed using thirty epitope specific monoclonal anti‐D as primary antibody. The D antigenic sites were calculated using standard RBC with known D antigenic sites.Result  The mean (±I S.D) D antigenic sites per RBC in weak D and partial D were 4503 ± 2067 and 6750 ± 3426 respectively. In R1R1 phenotype the range of D antigenic sites was 16500 ± 2500 and in R1r it was 10600 ± 2520. In four cases of weak D sites were in range of 1700 to 3500 and in other four it was 5000 to 7200 D sites/RBC. Among partial D variants DVI had minimum, and DVa had maximum number of D sites.Conclusion  Flowcytometry is a very good tool for demonstrating minor differences in D antigen sites in partial D and weak D when serological methods are not conclusive.
Improving Hospital Transfusion Practice: Evaluation of Progress at Two Metropolitan Hospitals
Authors: Botting Karen , Boyce Neil , Aranda Sanchia , Topp Felicity 
Published: September 2010

Aim  Blood Matters was a project funded by the Victorian Department of Human Services to introduce sustainable improvements in hospital transfusion practice. An evaluation was conducted at two metropolitan hospitals to review progress against stated aims and identify key elements leading to changes in transfusion practice and highlight any unintended consequences.Method  During the project, each hospital chose to focus improvement efforts in key areas. Measurable, specific goals were developed. Using a case study approach, the evaluation was conducted by review of the aim‐specific data collected during the project and by semi‐structured interviews from which key themes (eg assumptions underpinning decisions) were identified. Interviews were conducted with at least 10 representative individuals from each organisation whose roles were considered necessary for change in their institution’s transfusion practice.Result  Measurable improvements have been made (eg an 87 percent improvement in reduction of patient identification error) and the Transfusion Nurse position made operational at both sites. Examples of key success factors identified are: a committed transfusion team to direct improvements in the organisation; integration of transfusion data reporting into existing organisational quality/risk management structures to provide ongoing visibility for transfusion issues and; mentorship and support for the Transfusion Nurse role.Conclusion  This project has, in the short term, successfully generated improvements in hospital transfusion practice and influenced hospital systems to enable changes to be sustainable in the longer term.
Recidivism in Transfusion Quality Improvement: Support for the Role of Transfusion Nurses
Authors: Quayle Sue , Crispin Philip , Crowe Bethany , McDonald Anne 
Published: September 2010

Aim  To evaluate longer term outcomes of a quality improvement strategy in transfusion.Method  A Clinical Health Improvement Program (CHIP) quality improvement project was conducted in a 290 bed acute general hospital, to decrease the rate of transfusions with high pre‐transfusion haemoglobins. Strategies for improvement included: formation of a Transfusion Committee; development of transfusion pathway; implementation of a Maximum Blood Order Schedule; educational strategies targeting clinical staff at all levels; promulgation of the NHRMC Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Use of Blood Components; and feedback to clinicians. The CHIP project was superseded by the ACT Haemovigilance Project, and an ACT wide concurrent transfusion audit was undertaken. There was no formal feedback on clinician performance during, or for 6 months prior to, the Haemovigilance audit. Red cell transfusion was assessed for compliance with the NHMRC Guidelines and compared with CHIP results.Result  The CHIP project demonstrated successful implementation of the selected strategies, leading to a reduction in transfusions with pre‐transfusion haemoglobins greater than 90 g/L. Follow up auditing commencing six months later demonstrated a progressive, and statistically significant, increase in inappropriate transfusions over the following six months.Conclusion  Although improvement in transfusion practice was demonstrated with a multi‐factorial approach to quality improvement, the improvement was not sustained in the medium term. Our results indicate the need for organisational commitment to long term quality improvement strategies in transfusion, and support the development of Transfusion Officers or Nurses to improve bedside clinical practice.
Regulatory Oversight of Blood, Tissues and Emerging Biological Therapies in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Pembrey Richard 
Published: September 2010

The regulation of blood, blood product, tissue and gene technology therapies are viewed as critical to protecting the health of Australians. In response to the growing community concerns regarding the ethics, quality and safety of tissue and biological therapy products, the Australian Health Ministers Council, in 2002, recommended the development and introduction of a regulatory framework for tissues and emerging biological therapies. The proposal for tissues and emerging biological therapies parallels the regulation of blood and blood components introduced by the TGA in 2000 following similar ministerial recommendations, policy development and consultation A comprehensive system for the regulation of cellular and tissue based therapies within a proposed trans Tasman framework will be characterised by the following principles:• All therapeutic products definable as cellular and tissue therapies, including cell‐based gene therapy products, will be overseen by the system• The level of regulation will be classified according to the risks posed by the therapies to the individual and the community.• The classification system will align regulation of therapies to:– standards– standards and GMP– standards, GMP and pre‐market evaluation according to the level of risk.• All facilities responsible for the manufacture and supply of cellular and tissue based products will be required to register their organisation with the TGA.
Blood Transfusion Prescribing Patterns Across the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Authors: Crowe Bethany , Crispin Philip , Quayle Sue , McDonald Anne 
Published: September 2010

Aim To identify the medical officers responsible for blood transfusion therapy across the ACT.Method  Medical records of patients having transfusions were audited in one tertiary referral hospital, one general hospital and one associated private hospital as part of a quality improvement project. The clinical status patients, reasons for transfusion and laboratory data were extracted and the appropriateness of transfusion was assessed independently by two of the authors. Differences were resolved by consensus. The prescriber was also identified where possible, defined as the most senior clinician recorded in the medical record involved in the decision to transfuse.Result  The prescriber could be determined in 78% of transfusion episodes. In the majority of cases the decision to transfuse was attributed to specialist staff, in all hospitals. Registrars at the tertiary hospital prescribed significantly fewer inappropriate transfusions (12%) than specialists (18.1%, p < 0.05). This was not found at the smaller public hospital. After hours resident and registrar staff prescribed significantly fewer inappropriate transfusions (3%) than other prescribers across the Territory (18.7%, p < 0.005).Conclusion  Medical practitioners with varying levels of experience make medical decisions in hospitals. Who is responsible for these decisions has not been well studied. Our findings demonstrate specialist involvement in the majority of transfusion decisions. The results favour a ‘top down’ approach to quality improvement in transfusion, rather than targeting junior medical officers. The findings also have significant implications in understanding the dynamics of clinical decision making in the hospital setting and for the targeting of other quality improvement strategies.