bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Classical biological control of the cabbage root fly,
Delia radicum
, in Canadian canola: an analysis of research needs.
Authors: Andreassen L. D. , Kuhlmann U. , Mason P. G. , Holliday N. J. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract

The cabbage root fly (=cabbage maggot),
Delia radicum
, has increased in importance over the past two decades as a pest of canola (oilseed rape) in Canada. Although
D. radicum
has been a part of the North American insect fauna for some time, it is not native, so the introduction of natural enemy species from Europe is being considered for integration with existing management strategies. The biology of
D. radicum
, the injuries it causes to the crop, and strategies already available for its control are briefly reviewed, followed by the process by which
Aleochara bipustulata
, a predator and parasitoid of
D. radicum
, was identified as the most promising candidate for introduction in a classical biological control programme. The literature on
A. bipustulata
and other species in the same genus is then brought together to illustrate the importance of studies to evaluate the potential of
A. bipustulata
to provide control, and its effects on non-target species.
Food colours of plant origin.
Authors: Shamina A. , Shiva K. N. , Parthasarathy V. A. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Pigments of plant origin are gaining importance globally as a potential source of natural food colours for their versatility and so as to avoid a variety of health hazards caused by synthetic colours. Colour has been added to our foods in one or another form for centuries. Earlier studies of food colours have focused mainly on synthetic colours and their chemistry, stability, metabolism and toxicity, but recent attention has been directed towards biochemical aspects of food colours of plant origin and their utilization studies. This review gives up-to-date information on various aspects of food colours such as history, types, sources, uses, chemistry, properties, colour additives and regulations for use.
Therapeutic use of bacteriophages in animals and in foods to reduce contamination.
Authors: Owens J. , Heuzenroeder M. , Barton M. D. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract

Bacteriophages are viruses that are able to infect and kill bacterial cells. This capability indicates that they may have the potential to become new antibacterial agents, as an alternative to antibiotics. Yet, while bacteriophages are relatively new to Western researchers, they have been extensively used in the former Eastern Block and its successors, including use in human clinical medicine. Western research on this topic is far more limited. Bacteriophage products have recently been licensed in the USA for control of two different bacteria:
Listeria monocytogenes
and
Escherichia coli
O157:H7. Neither of these products is, however, approved for direct administration to humans or animals. The use of bacteriophages to treat bacterial infections in humans or animals is a much more complex issue, but there has been a considerable amount of research into this field, and results are quite promising. Bacteriophage therapy and prevention of bacterial pathogens has been assessed in numerous species, and animals are also used as models for human disease. The behaviour of bacteriophages is, however, not as predictable
in vivo
as it is in artificial laboratory models. There is also concern regarding possible undesirable outcomes of bacteriophage therapy, such as the development of bacterial resistance to bacteriophages, and even the possibility of transfer of virulence or resistance genes, via bacteriophages, into other bacteria. Therefore, extensive research is still required into the behaviour of bacteriophages in
vivo
, but research to date shows considerable promise.
Nutrition of juvenile saltwater crocodiles (
Crocodylus porosus
) in commercial production systems.
Authors: Isberg S. R. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Developing an artificial diet for saltwater crocodiles to replace feeding raw meat has received considerable research effort in Australia over the last 10 years. The advantages of developing an artificial diet include a reduction in labour costs, capital outlay and maintenance and operating costs. Considering labour and feed costs have been estimated to be approximately 80% of the operation costs on Australian farms, the economic benefits are substantial. Despite this effort, no review has been published to determine where gaps in the research exist. Many studies have been conducted to determine the optimal protein, fat and energy levels for crocodilian feeds. These have been used as a model for developing artificial diets but the fastidious feeding behaviour of saltwater crocodiles has resulted in very little progress being made. It is this fastidious feeding behaviour that is particularly delaying progress and strategies such as manipulating the texture, odour and/or taste have so far been unsuccessful.
Counting the cost of climate change at an agricultural level.
Authors: Quiggin J. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
The effects of global climate change on agriculture will be diverse and complex. Some important qualitative conclusions emerge from the literature. First, it is important to focus on the rate at which climate changes and the capacity of farmers to adjust, rather than on absolute changes in temperature. Second, given that significant warming is inevitable, it is important to focus on the marginal effects of feasible changes in the rate of warming, rather than on the aggregate rate of warming. With a convex damage function, the expected marginal cost of warming may be large even when aggregate damage, given the expected rate of warming, is close to zero. Third, uncertainty is crucial and remains poorly understood. In particular, modelling of low-probability catastrophic outcomes remains very limited. Finally, it seems likely that global climate change will enhance extremes of all kinds.
What do purchasers of Fair Trade products want?
Authors: Sirieix L. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Fair Trade is a trading partnership that seeks greater equity in international trade, and is backed by Fair Trade consumers who accept to pay an 'ethical price premium' to contribute to sustainable development in the South. The question 'What do purchasers of Fair Trade products want?' can be split into two questions. First, what do they want to 'say' with their choice? To answer this question, it is necessary to examine buying motives, but also barriers that may explain the gap between attitudes and actual behaviour. Fair Trade consumption can be seen as a solidarity-based commitment, since Fair Trade consumers' concerns mainly relate to the well-being of workers and farmers in developing countries. These motives are mainly linked to universal personal values, but are combined with other motives such as taste or quality, linked with self-oriented values. Besides, several barriers contribute to an explanation of the gap between positive attitudes towards Fair Trade and consumers' actual behaviour: lack of awareness, social norms, perceived behaviour control and perceived consumer efficiency, but also price and taste. The second question is 'What do purchasers of Fair Trade products want to purchase, and where?' If results from initial studies are confirmed, not all Fair Trade consumers may want the same product: for most of them, a double 'organic and Fair Trade' label may add value to the product, but for some consumers this double label can devalue Fair Trade products. Besides, not all consumers want the same distribution channels: those who pay attention to convenience and availability want to find Fair Trade products in supermarkets, but more committed consumers seem to prefer alternative Fair Trade shops. Finally, this literature review highlights the diversity of consumer profiles and desires and dilemmas affecting Fair Trade, and suggests some research issues for a better understanding of the Fair Trade consumers and Fair Trade movement perspectives.
Priorities for conservation of soil animals.
Authors: Decaëns T. , Lavelle P. , Jiménez J. J. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Soils are recognized as one of the greatest biodiversity reservoirs of the planet, as communities of edaphic animals include an outstanding diversity of body sizes, life forms and behaviours, with representatives of virtually all the major taxa and trophic groups that form the terrestrial animal kingdom. Paradoxically, soils are also among the most poorly studied habitats of our planet, and we most likely only know an infinitesimal part of the global taxonomic and functional diversity of its biota. In this paper, we provide a 'state-of-the-art' review and reveal the main gaps in our knowledge of soil animal diversity, its function and how it contributes to the provision of important ecosystem services. We also propose some further research priorities for improving our knowledge of soil fauna and contributing to a better conservation of their communities.
Nutrition screening in long-term care facilities: an evaluation of the methodological quality of available instruments.
Authors: Miller M. D. , Loh W. N. , Watterson C. , Fraser A. , Nowson C. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
A variety of nutrition screening instruments have been developed and implemented for identifying the risk of undernutrition among community and hospitalized older adults. Despite the high prevalence of undernutrition amongst older adults in long-term care, few screening instruments have been developed or evaluated in this setting. This review aims to evaluate the validity, reproducibility and feasibility of nutrition screening instruments developed for use, or described as being used, with older adults in long-term care. Ten publications encompassing nine independent nutrition screening tools were identified using electronic databases and manual searches of reference lists. The Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF) was the most widely evaluated nutrition screening instrument and met the requirements for a valid instrument (sensitivity and specificity >0.9) for use in the long-term care setting. Modified versions of the MNA for use in China and South Africa also demonstrated acceptable levels of sensitivity and specificity. Other nutrition screening instruments were found to have variable levels of sensitivity and specificity and while some demonstrated levels consistent with the MNA-SF, only two were evaluated across more than one study population, Body Mass Index (BMI)+weight loss and BMI+albumin. These same instruments reported the highest levels of inter-rater and test-retest reproducibility, although this was only tested in one other instrument (Chinese Nutrition Screen - modified MNA). In conclusion, it is evident from this review that further work in this area is needed. Based on validity, reproducibility and feasibility it appears that BMI+weight loss is the most suitable nutrition screening instrument for use in the long-term care setting at this time. MNA-SF is promising; however, there is currently no data for inter-rater or test-retest reproducibility in the long-term care setting.
Current status and implications of engineering drought tolerance in plants using transgenic approaches.
Authors: Bartels D. , Hussain S. S. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Water deficit is a consequence of several different stresses including drought, salinity and extreme temperatures. It severely limits plant growth and productivity. Traditional plant breeding programmes have contributed significantly to the generation of stress-tolerant plants, but the process is rather time-consuming, expensive and hampered by the multigenic nature of the stress. Techniques developed in the field of plant molecular biology have the potential to modify plants for growth under unfavourable conditions and to provide new genotypes faster than traditional breeding is able to. The engineering of metabolic pathways associated with drought stress has emerged as a promising way to improve tolerance in model and crop plants. In recent years, efforts in this area have led to improvements in drought stress tolerance. Attempts to engineer improved drought tolerance using single- or multi-gene transfer of candidate genes offer rapid improvements in drought tolerance, although such genetic engineering strategies are limited by an incomplete understanding of stress tolerance mechanisms. Major efforts are required in molecular dissection of drought tolerance mechanisms in important crop plants. This review summarizes recent advances in elucidating stress response mechanisms and their biotechnological applications. Emphasis is placed on transgenic plants that exhibit improved drought tolerance. Various strategies to obtain drought-tolerant plants will be described and discussed.
Pig production in Vietnam - a review.
Authors: Lemke U. , Mergenthaler M. , Rössler R. , Huyen L. T. T. , Herold P. , Kaufmann B. , Zárate A. V. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Pigs are of great importance in Vietnam because of their contribution to human nutrition, their role in agricultural production systems and their economic function. Vietnam's pig herd is the largest in Southeast Asia. This paper reviews the Vietnamese pig production sector. Starting with an overview of natural conditions concerning pig production, including a description of prevalent pig breeds and pig production systems, the paper then takes a systematic view of the pig production infrastructure, including the breeding and feeding as well as the veterinary and extension systems, and product marketing. Finally, the political and economic environment and state policies relevant to pig production are described. While focussing on the present situation, the paper also incorporates information on historical developments, which have led to the current state, and derives trends for future development. This paper reviews published literature, legal documents, and reports accessed from development projects in Vietnam, and additionally includes information obtained from members of development projects, and from key people and stakeholders of the Vietnamese pig production sector.
Non-chemical control methods for sheep with mixed, predominantly
Teladorsagia circumcincta
, nematode infections.
Authors: Stear M. J. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
Nematode infection is a potent threat to efficient and welfare-friendly livestock production. Anthelmintic treatment is a simple, cheap and effective method to control nematodes but the widespread evolution of drug resistance in parasite populations threatens the sustainability of drug treatment. Non-chemical methods to control nematodes include biological control, grazing management, nutritional supplementation, and the exploitation of genetic variation in resistance to nematode infection. Biological control includes the use of predatory fungi which can control nematode populations but the current requirement for daily feeding means that this approach will be most useful for animals that are handled daily. Grazing management schemes can reduce the intensity of infection but these schemes are not always practical. Feeding supplementary protein can control nematode infection but this may not be cost-effective on some farms. Genetic approaches include the use of resistant breeds and selective breeding. There are large differences among breeds in resistance to infection but the use of resistant breeds is not always feasible. Selective breeding is cheap and effective but requires considerable expertise. Substantial experience and knowledge will be required by farmers, consultants or veterinarians to determine the most appropriate procedures to control nematodes infection on any given farm.
Unravelling the terroir mystique - an agro-socio-economic perspective.
Authors: Deloire A. , Prévost P. , Kelly M. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract
The concept of terroir is a complex notion because apart from climate and soil, it includes individuals, social organizations and activities, such as agricultural practices. The idea of geographical origin is important for products which lay claim to a terroir-linked typicality. Quantifying the terroir effect using criteria other than taste (such as the socio-economic development for the area) is important for arguing the case of a product in the face of intellectual property rights, international trade rules and rules of competition. Measuring the 'terroir' effect on an agri-food product remains difficult for both trained experts and for the consumer, for whom the appreciation of the product or lack of it remains the principal criterion in its evaluation. This does not exclude the capacity to recognize the product's properties, but it should be remembered that the perceived taste and aromas will be transformed by the individual's experience into a unique overall impression of taste and smell. It would seem that the enrichment of the terroir concept over the centuries is a strong signal of its social importance. Terroir-derived food products, the preservation of landscapes and the encouragement of individuals are important values that merit current support and future development. High energy costs will engender a delocalization of certain agricultural products which may well lead to new links between the producer and the consumer, with inevitable positive results for terroir products. The purpose of this review is to address the question, via an extensive literature search and original conceptual analysis: what is a product's relationship to terroir and is this relationship identifiable?
Socio‐economic status and problem alcohol use: the positive relationship between income and the DSM‐IV alcohol abuse diagnosis
Authors: Keyes Katherine M. , Hasin Deborah S. 
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACTAims  Epidemiological evidence indicates a positive relationship between income and the prevalence of alcohol abuse in the general population, but an inverse relationship between income and alcohol dependence. Among those with a diagnosis of alcohol abuse, the most prevalent criterion is hazardous use, which commonly requires sufficient resources to own or access a car. The present study investigated whether the association between income and the prevalence of current alcohol abuse is accounted for by the hazardous use criterion; specifically, the drinking and driving symptoms of the hazardous use criterion.Design  Face‐to‐face survey conducted in the 2001–02 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions, interviewed with the Alcohol Use Disorders and Associated Disabilities Interview 4th edition (AUDADIS‐IV).Setting  The United States and District of Columbia, including Alaska and Hawaii.Participants  Household and group‐quarters residents aged >18 years. Life‐time dependence cases were excluded (n = 4781).Measurements  Income was defined as past‐year personal income. Outcomes were specific alcohol abuse criteria and symptom questions. Logistic regressions were performed controlling for demographics. The relationship between alcohol abuse severity indicators and income was modeled using polytomous regression.Findings  Among the alcohol abuse criteria, hazardous use is the most prevalent and the only criterion to have a significant positive relationship with income (F = 20.3, df = 3, P < 0.0001). Among the hazardous use symptoms, driving after drinking (F = 13.0, df = 3, P < 0.0001) and driving while drinking (F = 9.2, df = 3, P < 0.0001) were related positively to income.Conclusions  Because hazardous use is the most commonly endorsed criterion of alcohol abuse, the link with income raises questions about whether the current alcohol abuse diagnosis can capture the full range of alcohol abusers in every socio‐economic class. While many psychiatric disorders exhibit an inverse relationship with socio‐economic status, a selection bias may cause the alcohol abuse diagnosis to have an artificially positive relationship with income due to the necessity for access to a vehicle to be diagnosed.
Cannabis potency and contamination: a review of the literature
Authors: McLaren Jennifer , Swift Wendy , Dillon Paul , Allsop Steve 
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACTAims  Increased potency and contamination of cannabis have been linked in the public domain to adverse mental health outcomes. This paper reviews the available international evidence on patterns of cannabis potency and contamination and potential associated harms, and discusses their implications for prevention and harm reduction measures.Methods  A systematic literature search on cannabis potency and contamination was conducted.Results  Cannabis samples tested in the United States, the Netherlands, United Kingdom and Italy have shown increases in potency over the last 10 years. Some countries have not shown significant increases in potency, while other countries have not monitored potency over time. While there are some grounds to be concerned about potential contaminants in cannabis, there has been no systematic monitoring.Conclusion  Increased potency has been observed in some countries, but there is enormous variation between samples, meaning that cannabis users may be exposed to greater variation in a single year than over years or decades. Claims made in the public domain about a 20‐ or 30‐fold increase in cannabis potency and about the adverse mental health effects of cannabis contamination are not supported currently by the evidence. Systematic scientific testing of cannabis is needed to monitor current and ongoing trends in cannabis potency, and to determine whether cannabis is contaminated. Additionally, more research is needed to determine whether increased potency and contamination translates to harm for users, who need to be provided with accurate and credible information to prevent and reduce harms associated with cannabis use.
Development of an in silico coding gene SNP map in pigs
Authors: Li X. P. , Hu Z. L. , Moon S. J. , Do K. T. , Ha Y. K. , Kim H. , Byun M. J. , Choi B. H. , Rothschild M. F. , Reecy J. M. , Kim K. S. 
Published: May 2008

SummaryA total of 5450 sequences obtained from the NCBI pig SNP database were consolidated into 465 unique sequences (189 singleton sequences and 276 contigs). These 465 sequences contained 1787 putative SNPs and had strong sequence homology to 433 human protein‐coding genes based on blast analyses. These genes were assigned to the pig QTL maps (http://www.animalgenome.org/QTLdb/pig.html) via the human and pig comparative maps established by a pig radiation hybrid (RH) map. The SNP information characterized from this study provides a useful functional gene variation resource to facilitate QTL data mining in the pig genome.
Identification of erythropoietin‐induced microRNAs in haematopoietic cells during erythroid differentiation
Authors: Kosaka Nobuyoshi , Sugiura Keiichi , Yamamoto Yusuke , Yoshioka Yusuke , Miyazaki Hiroshi , Komatsu Norio , Ochiya Takahiro , Kato Takashi 
Published: May 2008

SummaryMicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression through mRNA degradation or translation inhibition. It has not yet been clearly elucidated whether miRNAs participate in haematopoietic processes such as cell differentiation, apoptosis and maintenance of adequate levels of circulating blood cells. A human miRNA microarray was used to analyze miRNA expression in the erythropoietin‐dependent cell line UT‐7/EPO compared to other factor‐dependent UT‐7 cell lines. Among 324 human miRNAs, MIRN188, MIRN362 and MIRN210 levels were significantly elevated in UT‐7/EPO cells, and stimulation with EPO in UT‐7 cells increased the level of these three miRNAs. Notably, knockdown of MIRN210 in UT‐7/EPO cells led to apoptosis. In mouse fetal liver cells, MIRN210 expression was twofold higher in TER‐119‐positive cells than in TER‐119‐negative cells. The expression of MIRN210 was elevated during erythroid maturation in vitro. These data suggest MIRN210 to be a member a new class of regulatory miRNAs that might play an important role in erythroid maturation.