bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular paternity determination in captive bonobos and the impact of inbreeding on infant mortality
Authors: Van Coillie S. , Galbusera P. , Roeder A. D. , Schempp W. , Stevens J. M. G. , Leus K. , Reinartz G. , Pereboom Z. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractInbreeding and the loss of genetic diversity may lower fitness and reduce the potential for a population to adapt to changing environments. In small populations, for example in captive populations or populations of endangered species, this can have considerable consequences for their survival. We investigated the effects of inbreeding on infant mortality in the world captive population of bonobosPan paniscus. Using a combination of studbook data and high‐quality pedigree data from genotyped individuals, inbreeding information was available for 142 captive‐born individuals. For the determination of paternities that were unresolved in the studbook, nuclear microsatellite DNA was amplified from hair and blood samples using the Great Ape Kit and PowerPlex®16 System. In total, 54 bonobos (17 offspring and their putative parents) were genotyped at eight tetranucleotide repeat microsatellite loci. Inbreeding coefficients were calculated for each individual for whom paternity was confirmed by either studbook data or DNA analysis. We found significantly higher infant mortality in inbred offspring compared with non‐inbred offspring, suggesting that inbreeding reduces infant survival in captive bonobos. In addition, we argue that the total magnitude of inbreeding depression is probably underestimated in this captive population. In conclusion, even though the breeding programme of captive bonobos is aimed at avoiding inbreeding, closely related individuals do occasionally produce offspring that do show inbreeding depression. There is, however, no indication that this currently threatens the long‐time survival of the captive population of bonobos.
The microvascular architecture of the choroid plexus in fetal human brain lateral ventricle: a scanning electron microscopy study of corrosion casts
Authors: Zagorska‐Swiezy K. , Litwin J. A. , Gorczyca J. , Pitynski K. , Miodonski A. J. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractThe microvascular architecture of developing lateral ventricle choroid plexus was investigated by corrosion casting and scanning electron microscopy in human fetuses aged 20 gestational weeks. The areas with different microvascular patterns corresponded to the particular parts of the mature plexus: anterior part, glomus, posterior part, the villous fringe and the free margin. In the posterior part, densely packed parallel arterioles and venules were surrounded by sheath‐like capillary networks. Other areas contained compact capillary plexuses of the primary villi: the most prominent, protruding basket‐ and leaf‐shaped plexuses were observed in the villous fringe, whilst less numerous and smaller plexuses occurred in the anterior part and glomus. The capillaries of the plexuses had a large diameter and sinusoidal dilations, and showed the presence of occasional short, blind sprouts indicative of angiogenesis. Short anastomoses between arterioles supplying the plexuses and venules draining them were only rarely observed. In the upper area of the choroid plexus, the superior choroidal vein was surrounded by a capillary network forming small, glomerular or rosette‐shapes plexuses. The free margin of the choroid plexus was characterized by flat, multiple, arcade‐like capillary loops. The general vascular architecture of the human choroid plexus at 20 gestational weeks seems to be similar to that of postnatal/mature plexus, still lacking, however, the complex vascular plexuses of the secondary villi.
The large‐scale detoured migration route and the shifting pattern of migration in Oriental honey‐buzzards breeding in Japan
Authors: Yamaguchi N. , Tokita K‐I. , Uematsu A. , Kuno K. , Saeki M. , Hiraoka E. , Uchida K. , Hotta M. , Nakayama F. , Takahashi M. , Nakamura H. , Higuchi H. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractWe describe the detoured migration route of the Oriental honey‐buzzardPernis ptilorhyncus, showing differences between autumn and spring migration, using data from 10 adult individuals marked with satellite transmitters. In autumn, the migration routes were very similar from Japan to the south end of the Malay Peninsula. The wintering sites were distributed within the Philippines, Borneo and the Malay Archipelago. During autumn, migration of the birds had few long‐term stopover sites, instead, sometimes decidedly slowing their migration rate while proceeding in a consistent direction. During spring migration, the honey‐buzzards penetrated into southern China, moving north to the base of the Korean Peninsula. The birds then went south through the Korean Peninsula to reach Japan. Before travelling to China, all spring migrants stopped for several weeks in south‐east Asia. The slow rate of travel in the autumn suggests that migrants were foraging and replenishing their energy reserves. Instead of a migration strategy that uses only a few long‐term stopover sites, honey‐buzzards may adopt a strategy based on a number of short‐term stay sites.
Sex ratios observed in 80 species of parrots
Authors: Taylor T. D. , Parkin D. T. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractA number of potential evolutionary and physiological factors may be involved in avian sex ratio bias so that under certain conditions a sex ratio bias may favour males or females within a population. In addition different factors may be important in manipulating sex ratio bias through the different life stages. In this study sex ratio bias was examined in a total of 16 570 captive parrots, representing 80 species, many of which are endangered in the wild, using database records originating form commercial laboratories that offer genetic sexing. Within the species examined 72% showed a male bias this was significant in three species, when adjusted for multiple comparisons. This preliminary study is limited due to lack of data on the age of the individuals sampled. However, the large dataset do suggest that this phenomenon should be further considered by investigators working at a species level where such data can be collected.
Variations in body melanization impact desiccation resistance inDrosophila immigransfrom Western Himalayas
Authors: Parkash R. , Ramniwas S. , Rajpurohit S. , Sharma V. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractEctothermic species face problems of water balance under colder and drier climatic conditions in montane localities. We investigated five ecophysiological traits (body melanization, desiccation resistance, rate of water loss or gain and body size) in eight populations ofDrosophila immigransfrom an altitudinal gradient (600–2226 m) in the Western Himalayas. The traits showed bell‐shaped variability patterns characteristic of quantitative traits. For body melanization, we observed high heritability (0.65) on the basis of parent–offspring regression. A comparison of highland versus foothill populations showed significant divergence for all the traits except body size. Darker flies from the highlands exhibited higher desiccation resistance but reduced rate of water loss or gain as compared with lighter flies from the foothills, which showed lower desiccation resistance and higher rates of water loss as well as gain. Lack of differences in the amount of epicuticular lipids cannot account for differential reduction in cuticular water loss in altitudinal populations. However, within‐ as well as between‐population differences in body melanization can account for changes in desiccation resistance and reduction in cuticular water loss. Analyses of highland versus lowland populations as well as in assorted darker and lighter flies from a highland population have shown differences in haemolymph and dehydration tolerance. For the mechanistic basis of desiccation resistance, our results on wild populations ofDrosophila immigransare not in agreement with those reported for laboratory‐selected desiccation‐resistant strains inDrosophila melanogaster. Thus, ecophysiological mechanisms could be different under laboratory versus field selection.
Complement C3 and C4 expression in C1q sufficient and deficient mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Zhou Jun , Fonseca Maria I. , Pisalyaput Karntipa , Tenner Andrea J. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease resulting in progressive cognitive decline. Amyloid plaque deposits consisting specifically of β‐amyloid peptides that have formed fibrils displaying β‐pleated sheet conformation are associated with activated microglia and astrocytes, are colocalized with C1q and other complement activation products, and appear at the time of cognitive decline in AD. Amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgenic mouse models of AD that lack the ability to activate the classical complement pathway display less neuropathology than do the APPQ+/+ mice, consistent with the hypothesis that complement activation and the resultant inflammation may play a role in the pathogenesis of AD. Further investigation of the presence of complement proteins C3 and C4 in the brain of these mice demonstrate that both C3 and C4 deposition increase with age in APPQ+/+ transgenic mice, as expected with the age‐dependent increase in fibrillar β‐amyloid deposition. In addition, while C4 is predominantly localized on the plaques and/or associated with oligodendrocytes in APPQ+/+ mice, little C4 is detected in APPQ−/− brains consistent with a lack of classical complement pathway activation because of the absence of C1q in these mice. In contrast, plaque and cell associated C3 immunoreactivity is seen in both animal models and, surprisingly, is higher in APPQ−/− than in APPQ+/+ mice, providing evidence for alternative pathway activation. The unexpected increase in C3 levels in the APPQ−/− mice coincident with decreased neuropathology provides support for the hypothesis that complement can mediate protective events as well as detrimental events in this disease. Finally, induced expression of C3 in a subset of astrocytes suggests the existence of differential activation states of these cells.
Translation arrest and ribonomics in post‐ischemic brain: layers and layers of players
Authors: DeGracia Donald J. , Jamison Jill T. , Szymanski Jeffrey J. , Lewis Monique K. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractA persistent translation arrest (TA) correlates precisely with the selective vulnerability of post‐ischemic neurons. Mechanisms of post‐ischemic TA that have been assessed include ribosome biochemistry, the link between TA and stress responses, and the inactivation of translational components via sequestration in subcellular structures. Each of these approaches provides a perspective on post‐ischemic TA. Here, we develop the notion that mRNA regulation via RNA‐binding proteins, or ribonomics, also contributes to post‐ischemic TA. We describe the ribonomic network, or structures involved in mRNA regulation, including nuclear foci, polysomes, stress granules, embryonic lethal abnormal vision/Hu granules, processing bodies, exosomes, and RNA granules. Transcriptional, ribonomic, and ribosomal regulation together provide multiple layers mediating cell reprogramming. Stress gene induction via the heat‐shock response, immediate early genes, and endoplasmic reticulum stress represents significant reprogramming of post‐ischemic neurons. We present a model of post‐ischemic TA in ischemia‐resistant neurons that incorporates ribonomic considerations. In this model, selective translation of stress‐induced mRNAs contributes to translation recovery. This model provides a basis to study dysfunctional stress responses in vulnerable neurons, with a key focus on the inability of vulnerable neurons to selectively translate stress‐induced mRNAs. We suggest a ribonomic approach will shed new light on the roles of mRNA regulation in persistent TA in vulnerable post‐ischemic neurons.
Is UK biofuel supply from Miscanthus water‐limited?
Authors: Richter G. M. , Riche A. B. , Dailey A. G. , Gezan S. A. , Powlson D. S. 
Published: July 2008

AbstractSustainable Miscanthus plantings encouraged under publicly funded schemes should be based on sound economic and environmental assessments. We developed an empirical yield model for Miscanthus from harvestable dry matter yields at 14 field trials in the UK to estimate site‐specific and regional yields derived from meteorological variables and soil available water. Harvestable yields of crops established for at least 3 years at 14 arable sites across the UK ranged from 5 to 18 t/ha, averaging at 12.8 (±2.9) t/ha. Variables considered to affect yield were number of years after planting, length of season (Tair > 9 °C), temperature, global solar radiation, precipitation and potential evapotranspiration during the season, and soil available water capacity (AWC). At a single site (Rothamsted), AWC and the relative average potential soil moisture deficit during the main growing season explained 70% of annual yield variation (RMSE = 1.38 t/ha, P < 0.001). For the complete UK data set (n = 67), yield variation was related to AWC, air temperature and precipitation (RMSE = 2.1 t/ha, P < 0.01). Linking soil survey and spatially interpolated weather data we calculated an overall national average dry matter yield of 9.6 t/ha. As shown for two counties (Oxfordshire and North Yorkshire), estimated yield may decrease by 1 t/ha, and its uncertainty may rise from 15 to >20%, when soil survey instead of local soil data are used. Using data from a single weather station can introduce a bias (<1 t/ha) because of differences in elevation and local temperature and precipitation. Overall, it seems most important for bioenergy plantings to assure sufficient water supply from the soil (AWC > 150 mm) during the main growing season.
From 2D TO 3D Through Modelling Based On A Single Image
Authors: Gonzalez‐Aguilera Diego , Gomez‐Lahoz Javier 
Published: July 2008

AbstractThree‐dimensional modelling from single images remains an interesting topic of investigation in the research community, even though range sensors are becoming a common alternative for the generation of 3D information. The interest in single‐image‐based modelling is motivated by a wide spectrum of applications such as cultural heritage, civil engineering, urban planning and even criminology. In this paper a complete new production flowline is presented for modelling based on a single image. The modelling process consists of a series of familiar steps in photogrammetry and computer vision: feature extraction, vanishing point computation, camera self‐calibration, 3D reconstruction and dimensional analysis. In particular, the methodology developed for single‐image‐based modelling takes a scientific approach combining several proven techniques with robust estimators. Finally, in order to demonstrate its capabilities, the reported examples include several real situations applied in different contexts.
Initial healing rates as predictive factors of venous ulcer healing: The use of a laser‐based three‐dimensional ulcer measurement
Authors: Kecelj Leskovec Nada , Perme Maja Pohar , Jezeršek Matija , Mozina Janez , Pavlović Miloš D. , Lunder Tomaž 
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACTThere is a need for practical methods to predict the healing time of venous leg ulcers. In a prospective cohort study of 81 patients with venous leg ulcers, we used a recently described laser‐based three‐dimensional measurement of the ulcers at days 0 and 28 to estimate the predictive power of horizontal (HIHR) and vertical initial healing rates (VIHR) for wound healing by week 24. The rates were calculated by Gilman's equation [(A1−A2)/((p1+p2)/2)(0–4)] and by its modification [(V1−V2)/((A1+A2)/2)(0–4)], respectively. The influence of risk factors on both the initial healing rates was also studied. The HIHR and VIHR are important predictors of healing at 24 weeks. They are not influenced by age, ulcer duration, initial ulcer area, and insufficient sapheno‐femoral junction, and/or calf perforating veins. Together with ulcer duration, they are independent predictors of the 24‐week healing (the area under ROC curve equals to 0.9). VIHR gives us additional information and significantly improves the prediction of 24‐week healing.
Sensitivity of Soil Restoration Indicators during Páramo Succession in the High Tropical Andes: Chronosequence and Permanent Plot Approaches
Authors: Abreu Zoraida , Llambí Luis D. , Sarmiento Lina 
Published: July 2008

Abstract The aim of this study was to analyze indicators of soil restoration during secondary succession in a heterogeneous valley in the high tropical Andes. A combination of chronosequence and permanent plot methods was used to detect changes in this heterogeneous matrix. Thirty‐six plots with different fallow times (1–9 years) and four noncultivated plots with natural vegetation (páramo) were sampled twice in a 3‐year interval (1996 and 1999). The following soil properties were determined: total C and N, pH, exchangeable bases, cation exchange capacity, and microbial biomass N (MB‐N). Using the chronosequence approach, successional increases in soil pH and Mg were detected, pointing to these variables as indicators of soil restoration during the fallow period. Comparing the noncultivated páramo with the fallow plots, a significant decrease in MB‐N was found, suggesting that this is a sensitive agricultural disturbance indicator. The permanent plot analysis failed to detect successional trends in any of the study variables, probably as a result of a lack of sensitivity of the indicators used within the 3‐year interval. Nevertheless, a strong acidification was detected by the permanent plot method when fallow plots were cultivated. We conclude that the size of important soil components such as total soil organic matter or microbial biomass is not a sensitive soil restoration indicator in these heterogeneous mountain systems but that other integrative variables such as pH could be more sensitive to successional changes in key soil processes (e.g., nitrification or nutrient losses).
Public Values for River Restoration Options on the Middle Rio Grande
Authors: Weber Matthew A. , Stewart Steven 
Published: July 2008

Abstract River restoration is a widespread phenomenon. This reflects strong public values for conservation, though missing are studies explicitly justifying restoration expenditures. Public restoration benefits are not well quantified, nor are public preferences among diverse activities falling into the broad category “restoration.” Our study estimates public values for restoration on the Middle Rio Grande, New Mexico. Stakeholder meetings and public focus groups guided development of a restoration survey mailed to Albuquerque area households. Four restoration categories were defined: fish and wildlife; vegetation density; tree type; and natural river processes. Survey responses supplied data for both choice experiment (CE) and contingent valuation (CV) analyses, two established environmental economics techniques for quantifying public benefits of conservation policies. Full restoration benefits are estimated at over $150 per household per year via the CE and at nearly $50 per household per year via CV. The CE allows value disaggregation among different restoration categories. The most highly valued category was tree type, meaning reestablishing native tree dominance for such species as Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) and eradicating non‐native trees such as Saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissma). The high public values we have found for restoration offer economic justification for intensive riparian management, particularly native plant‐based restoration in the Southwest.
Impacts of Herbicide Application and Mechanical Cleanings on Growth and Mortality of Two Timber Species inSaccharum spontaneumGrasslands of the Panama Canal Watershed
Authors: Craven Dylan , Hall Jefferson , Verjans Jean‐Marc 
Published: July 2008

AbstractReforestation has been suggested as a strategy to controlSaccharum spontaneum, an invasive grass that impedes regeneration in disturbed areas of the Panama Canal Watershed (PCW). In this study, the effects of different intensities of herbicide application and mechanical cleanings on the growth and mortality ofTerminalia amazoniaandTectona grandissaplings were evaluated inS. spontaneumgrasslands within the PCW. Both species exhibited greater height, basal diameter, wood volume index, wider crown diameters, deeper live crowns, and lower mortality with increasing intensity of mechanical cleanings and herbicide application. Height and competition ofS. spontaneumcorrelated negatively with intensity of mechanical cleanings and herbicide application. Grass control costs did not differ between tree species but did increase significantly with intensity of mechanical cleanings and herbicide application. We recommend fire suppression, annual herbicide application, and at least four mechanical cleanings per year inTec. grandisplantations during the first 3 years of plantation establishment. Given the slower initial growth and mortality patterns ofTer. amazonia, aggressive grass control treatments should be continued until individuals are sufficiently large to effectively shadeS. spontaneum. Results from this study suggest that reforestation with commercial timber species can rapidly establish and controlS. spontaneumgrowth in the PCW. Reforestation of areas already invaded or at risk of being invaded byS. spontaneumappears to be a viable strategy to reduce its abundance and subsequent negative ecological effects in the PCW.
Wetland Restoration in the Mancha Occidental Aquifer, Spain: A Critical Perspective on Water, Agricultural, and Environmental Policies
Authors: Martínez‐Santos Pedro , De Stefano Lucia , Llamas Manuel Ramón , Martínez‐Alfaro Pedro E. 
Published: July 2008

Abstract Conflicts between intensive groundwater use and wetland conservation are widespread throughout arid and semiarid regions worldwide. These have become more significant wherever there has been a synchronism between pumping‐based human development and the awakening of an environmental awareness in society. The Mancha Occidental aquifer provides an example of such an occurrence, which has given rise to noteworthy social conflicts. This paper presents a cross‐policy analysis for wetland restoration measures, establishing the main reasons why funding‐intensive agricultural, environmental, and water policies have only attained marginal success in recovering the area’s aquatic ecosystems.
Ophthalmoplegic Migraine and Infundibular Dilatation of a Cerebral Artery
Authors: Vieira José Pedro , Castro Jorge , Gomes Leonor Bastos , Jacinto Sandra , Dias Ana 
Published: July 2008

Ophthalmoplegic migraine (OM) is a childhood disorder of uncertain etiology manifesting recurrent unilateral headache associated with a transitory oculomotor (usually IIIrd nerve) palsy. Recent publications emphasize the finding on MRI of contrast enhancement in the IIIrd nerve suggesting that OM may be a recurrent inflammatory neuropathy.We report the case of a 7‐year‐old boy with typical symptoms of this disorder. Angio MR and Angio CT revealed the presence of an infundibular dilatation of a perforating branch of the posterior cerebral artery adjacent to the symptomatic IIIrd nerve. We speculate that this and perhaps other cases of OM may have a different pathophysiology related to compression of the IIIrd nerve by an adjacent vascular structure that could activate the trigeminovascular system and produce migrainous pain.