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A central tenet of landscape ecology is that mobile species depend on complementary habitats, which are insufficient in isolation, but combine to support animals through the full annual cycle. However, incorporating the dynamic needs of mobile species into conservation strategies remains a challenge, particularly in the context of climate adaptation planning. For cold-water fishes, it is widely assumed that maximum temperatures are limiting and that summer data alone can predict refugia and population persistence. We tested these assumptions in populations of redband rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss newberrii) in an arid basin, where the dominance of hot, hyperproductive water in summer emulates threats of climate change predicted for cold-water fish in other basins. We used telemetry to reveal seasonal patterns of movement and habitat use. Then, we compared contributions of hot and cool water to growth with empirical indicators of diet and condition (gut contents, weight-length ratios, electric phase angle, and stable isotope signatures) and a bioenergetics model. During summer, trout occurred only in cool tributaries or springs (20 °C) and avoided Upper Klamath Lake (25 °C). During spring and fall, ≥65% of trout migrated to the lake (5-50 km) to forage. Spring and fall growth (mean [SD] 0.58% per day [0.80%] and 0.34 per day [0.55%], respectively) compensated for a net loss of energy in cool summer refuges (-0.56% per day [0.55%]). In winter, ≥90% of trout returned to tributaries (25-150 km) to spawn. Thus, although perennially cool tributaries supported thermal refuge and spawning, foraging opportunities in the seasonally hot lake ultimately fueled these behaviors. Current approaches to climate adaptation would prioritize the tributaries for conservation but would devalue critical foraging habitat because the lake is unsuitable and unoccupied during summer. Our results empirically demonstrate that warm water can fuel cold-water fisheries and challenge the common practice of identifying refugia based only on summer conditions.Un principio central de la ecología de paisaje es que las especies ambulantes dependen de hábitats complementarios, los cuales son insuficientes en aislamiento, pero al combinarse mantienen a los animales durante el ciclo anual completo. Sin embargo, la incorporación de las necesidades dinámicas de las especies ambulantes dentro de las estrategias de conservación todavía es un reto, particularmente en el contexto de la planeación de la adaptación climática. Para los peces de agua fría, generalmente se asume que las temperaturas máximas son limitantes y que los datos estivales son suficientes para predecir refugios y la persistencia poblacional. Pusimos a prueba estas suposiciones en poblaciones de trucha arcoíris (Oncorhynchus mykiss newberrii) de una cuenca árida, en donde el dominio de aguas cálidas e hiperproductivas durante el verano emula las amenazas del cambio climático pronosticadas para los peces de agua fría en otras cuencas. Usamos telemetría para descubrir los patrones estacionales de movimiento y uso de hábitat. Después, comparamos las contribuciones que tienen las aguas cálidas y frías al crecimiento con indicadores empíricos de dieta y condición (contenidos intestinales, proporciones peso-longitud, ángulo de fase eléctrica y huellas de isotopos estables) y un modelo bioenergético. Durante el verano, las truchas sólo estuvieron presentes en manantiales o afluentes fríos (20°C) y evitaron el Lago Klamath Superior (25°C). Durante la primavera y el otoño, ≥65% de las truchas migraron al lago (5-50 km) para procurar alimento. El crecimiento durante la primavera y el otoño (media [SD] 0.58% día

Resource development in Arctic waters is proceeding rapidly leading to increased interactions with Arctic wildlife. As sea ice extent decreases, the demand for shipping and ice-breaking operations will expand into winter and spring with greater impact on ice-dependent pinnipeds. However, knowledge of the distribution of these species, such as ringed seals (Pusa hispida (Schreber, 1775)), during spring within areas of resource development is lacking. Baffinland Iron Mines Corporation’s Mary River iron ore port in southern Milne Inlet, Nunavut opened in 2015 with proposed ice-breaking activities in spring — an important period in ringed seal seasonal life-history. We conducted infrared and photographic aerial surveys in June 2016 and 2017 to overlay the proposed ice-breaking route with ringed seal hotspots (i.e., areas of higher density). We identified four areas of overlap where proposed ice-breaking would traverse through ringed seal hotspots: eastern and western Eclipse Sound (a ringed seal pupping ground identified by local knowledge), the middle of Milne Inlet, and southern Milne Inlet. We identified potential negative implications of spring ice-breaking operations on ringed seals such as displacement, separation of mothers and pups, destruction of resting and birth lairs, and vessel–seal collisions. Results are relevant to policy decision-makers who can develop mitigation strategies in the rapidly melting and developing Arctic.

The Oregon Coast landscape displays strong spatial patterns in air temperature, precipitation, and geology, which can confound our ability to detect relationships among land management, instream conditions, and fish at broad spatial scales. Despite this structure, we found that a suite of immutable or intrinsic attributes (e.g., reach gradient, drainage area, elevation, and percent weak rock geology of the catchments draining to each of our 423 study reaches) could explain much of the variation in pool surface area across the landscape and could contribute to an estimate of how many juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) one might expect to find in those pools. Further, we found evidence of differences in pool surface area across land ownership categories that reflect differing management histories. Our results also suggest that historical land and river management activities, in particular splash dams that occurred at least 50 years ago, continue to influence the distribution of juvenile coho salmon and their habitats today.

Pacific harbor seals ( Phoca vitulina richardsi) and belugas ( Delphinapterus leucas ) eat many of the same prey species, occupy the same geographic area, and demonstrate site fidelity in Cook Inlet, Alaska. Although most direct research involving the critically endangered belugas is currently prohibited, studying harbor seals may provide important information about this beluga population. In recent years, harbor seal populations in Alaska have declined for unknown reasons. As part of its stranding program, the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC) managed 59 cases of live and dead stranded harbor seals from Cook Inlet between 1997 and 2011. Animals were screened for a variety of diseases and contaminants of concern. Animals were negative by serology to the following diseases: avian influenza, canine distemper virus, dolphin morbillivirus, porpoise morbillivirus, Leptospira canicola, L. grippotyphosa, L. pomona, Neospora caninum , Sarcocystis neurona , and Toxoplasma gondii . Positive titers were found against Brucella spp., phocine distemper virus, seal herpesvirus-1, L. bratislava, L. hardjo, and L. icterohemorrhagiae. All titers were stable or declining except in one animal with an increasing titer for seal herpesvirus-1. Fecal pathogen screenings identified normal flora as well as stable or declining low levels of potentially pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria, though most were of little concern for seal health. In most animals, toxicology screening showed that the majority of tested contaminants were below detectable limits. The level of evidence of exposure to pathogens of concern was low in harbor seals. Although the infectious disease burden and contaminant levels in belugas in Cook Inlet cannot be definitively determined without direct testing, pathogen and contaminant exposure is expected to be similar to that found in harbor seals in this region, as the harbor seals and belugas share the habitat and food resources.

Compound-specific amino acid carbon-isotope compositions have shown particular promise for elucidating dietary behaviors in complex environmental contexts, and may also be able to mitigate the effect of many of the limitations inherent to palaeodietary reconstructions. Here, we investigate the efficacy of compound-specific amino acid isotopic proxies in characterizing the consumption of different dietary protein sources using amino acid carbon-isotope compositions for humans and fauna from Rössberga (Early to Middle Neolithic), Köpingsvik (Mesolithic and Middle Neolithic), and Visby (Medieval Period), Sweden. We also assess the explanatory capabilities of an isotopic mixing model when used with essential amino acid carbon-isotope compositions of humans and local fauna. All three isotopic proxies distinguished among humans from the three sites consistently and informatively, and were able to enhance the broad interpretations made using bulk isotopic compositions. The mixing model palaeodietary reconstruction revealed considerable diversity in relative protein source contributions among individuals at both Köpingsvik and Visby. Comparing the mixing model for bulk carbon- and nitrogen-isotope compositions to the model for essential amino acid isotopic compositions further demonstrated the likelihood of underestimation and overestimation of marine protein consumption for both aquatic-dominant and mixed marine-terrestrial diets when using bulk isotopic compositions.

Of central importance to palaeodietary reconstruction is a clear understanding of relative contributions of different terrestrial (i.e., C3 vs. C4 plants) and aquatic (i.e., freshwater vs. marine) resources to human diet. There are, however, significant limitations associated with the ability to reconstruct palaeodiet using bulk collagen stable isotope compositions in regions where diverse dietary resources are available. Recent research has determined that carbon-isotope analysis of individual amino acids has considerable potential to elucidate dietary protein source where bulk isotopic compositions cannot. Using δ13CAA values for human and faunal remains from Zvejnieki, Latvia (8th – 3rd millennia BCE), we test several isotopic proxies focused on distinguishing freshwater protein consumption from both plant-derived and marine protein consumption. We determined that the Δ13CGly-Phe and Δ13CVal-Phe proxies can effectively discriminate between terrestrial and aquatic resource consumption, and the relationship between essential δ13CAA values and the Δ13CGly-Phe and Δ13CVal-Phe proxies can differentiate among the four protein consumption groups tested here. Compound-specific amino acid carbon-isotope dietary proxies thus enable an enhanced understanding of diet and resource exploitation in the past, and can elucidate complex dietary behaviour.

Thyroid hormones play a critical physiologic role in regulating protein synthesis, growth, and metabolism. To date, because no published compilation of baseline values for thyroid hormones in beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) exists, assessment of thyroid hormone concentrations in this species has been underused in clinical settings. The purpose of this study was to document the concentrations of total thyroxine (tT4) and total triiodothyronine (tT3) in healthy aquarium-maintained and free-ranging beluga whales and to determine the influence of age, sex, and season on the thyroid hormone concentrations. Archived serum samples were collected from healthy aquarium-maintained (n=43) and free-ranging (n=39) belugas, and serum tT4 and tT3 were measured using chemiluminescence immunoassay. The mean tT4 concentration in aquarium-maintained belugas was 5.67±1.43 μg/dl and the mean tT3 concentration was 70.72±2.37 ng/dl. Sex comparisons showed that aquarium-maintained males had significantly greater tT4 and tT3 (9.70±4.48 μg/dl and 92.65±30.55 ng/dl, respectively) than females (7.18±2.82 μg/dl and 77.95±20.37 ng/dl) (P=0.004 and P=0.013). Age comparisons showed that aquarium-maintained whales aged 1-5 yr had the highest concentrations of tT4 and tT3 (8.17±0.17 μg/dl and 105.46±1.98 ng/dl, respectively) (P=0.002 and P

This paper presents an overview of the pioneering contributions of Larisa Maksimova to relevance logics. She is one of the first researchers who set out to methodically study systems of relevance logics, initially, focusing on Ackermann’s \(\varPi '\) of “Rigorous Implication,” and then extending her work to Anderson and Belnap’s systems E of Entailment and R of Relevant Implication, and other related logics. Not only did she develop an algebraic semantics for E, but also we find that a semantic definition of entailment via a ternary accessibility relation appears — the very first time — in an abstract by her.

Populations of harbor seal Phoca vitulina in the Gulf of Alaska have dramatically declined during the past 4 decades. Numbers of seals in Glacier Bay, in southeast Alaska, USA, have also declined despite extensive protection. Causes of the declines and slow recovery are poorly understood. Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease that adversely affects reproduction in many domestic species. We measured the seroprevalence of Brucella antibodies in 554 harbor seals in 3 Alaska locations: Prince William Sound (PWS), Glacier Bay (GB), and Tracy Arm Fords Terror (TAFT) Wilderness Area. Objectives included testing for regional, sex, age, and female reproductive state differences in Brucella antibody seroprevalence, persistence in titers in recaptured seals, and differences in titers between mother seals and their pups. Overall, 52% of adults (AD), 53% of subadults (SA), 77% of yearlings (YRL), and 26% of

Large wood and boulder placement projects have become common in the Pacific Northwest to restore complex stream habitat for juvenile Coho Salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch and other salmonids. We evaluated habitat responses at 91 large wood restoration projects in western Oregon from pretreatment to 1 year and 6 years after treatment. Large logs were arranged in jams without cabling or burial in the bottom or banks of the stream. Projects commonly treated 0.5–1 km of stream, but some extended up to 2.3 km. Significant changes in the amounts of large wood, complex pools, and predicted Coho Salmon rearing capacity were observed within 1 year of treatment. Six years after treatment, the amount of large wood, complex pools, and Coho Salmon rearing capacity remained significantly higher than pretreatment levels by 100, 800, and 32%, respectively, and the surface area of pools and gravel increased significantly over pretreatment levels by 15% and 8%, respectively. However, the amount of large wood decreased i...

When used to pollinate flowers of diploid Actinidia chinensis ‘Hort16A’, pollen from tetraploid A. chinensis or hexaploid A. deliciosa males produced fruit with higher fresh weight than did pollen from a diploid A. chinensis male. The dry matter content of the fruit was also increased once differences in the dry matter content of the seed were taken into account. These increases occurred despite slightly delayed harvest maturity and fewer well-formed seed in fruit following pollination by the higher ploidy males. Variation in seed development following different pollen treatments could be explained largely by the genomic ratios expected in the endosperm, and the tendency of ‘Hort16A’ to produce a proportion of 2n gametes. The results suggest that, in contrast to many other diploid A. chinensis genotypes, pollination of ‘Hort16A’ by males of higher ploidy may be beneficial in terms of fresh fruit weight.

Flowers of diploid Actinidia chinensis (kiwifruit) were hand-pollinated with pollen from either hexaploid A. deliciosa or diploid A. chinensis males and the subsequent fruit were evaluated. Following pollination with A. deliciosa pollen, fruit set, fresh weight, dry matter content, and seed weight and number were reduced. However, the most striking effect was on fruit flesh colour: the proportion of seedlings expressing red pigmentation, the intensity of pigmentation and the anthocyanin concentration were greatly reduced. The effects on maternal fruit tissues were probably indirect consequences of a reduction in the number of fertilized ovules due to partial pollen incompatibility. Effects on seed development could be explained largely by the ploidy difference between the seed and pollen parents. Growers should be cautious about using A. deliciosa pollen to pollinate diploid A. chinensis females, especially red-fleshed cultivars.

Intracellular pH, ratios of phosphocreatine (PCr) to ATP and PCr to inorganic phosphate (Pi) as well as isometric tension were measured during 1 Hz sciatic nerve stimulation and during recovery in the calf muscles of mdx (a model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy) and control mice. Tension did not decline significantly in either strain. The ratio of PCr/(PCr + Pi) was significantly reduced in mdx as against control muscle during exercise and recovery, but the ratio of PCr/ATP and the half-time for PCr recovery were similar in both strains. A reduction in the maximal activities of succinate dehydrogenase and succinate-cytochrome c reductase suggests that mitochondrial metabolism may be impaired. The similarity in PCr recovery times suggests that the muscle has adapted, making any impairment of oxidative metabolism negligible in the intact system. The rate of pH recovery is prolonged in mdx muscle and provides strong evidence for a decline in the capacity of dystrophic muscle to extrude proton equivalents. These data are compared with a previous study which used 10 Hz stimulation and also observed a slow pH recovery. The slow pH recovery could be explained by an elevation in intracellular sodium.

Marine-origin Brucella infections and serologic evidence of exposure have been doc- umented in multiple cetacean species. A dolphin-specific indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to screen bottlenose dolphin sera for anti-Brucella antibodies. A total of 131 serum samples collected over a 2 to 18 yr period from 6 bottlenose dolphins Tursiops truncatus with confirmed Brucella infections were analyzed for the presence and magnitude of antibody titers against marine-origin Brucella to compare individual antibody responses to various disease manifestations. Additionally, an epidemiologic serologic survey of a managed population of 64 bottlenose dolphins was performed to evaluate for the presence of antibodies and to deter- mine whether there were any clinical pathology predictors for exposure or infection. The serologic results revealed that the dolphins with Brucella-associated abortions were seronegative for 7 to 18 yr until after the abortion and maintained positive titers for several years, with 2 of 3 animals returning to seronegative status. In contrast, the dolphins with Brucella-associated pulmonary or bone lesions maintained persistent positive titers for 2 to 18 yr. The population serosurvey revealed no significant differences in antibody levels among males and females, and dolphins between the ages of 17 and 25 yr were 6.8 times more likely to be Brucella antibody positive com- pared to those that were younger or older. Seropositive dolphins did not have significant inflam- mation compared to seronegative dolphins but were more likely to have higher levels of aspartate aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase. Among 16 dolphins that tested seroposi- tive, 13 (81.3%) had previously been seropositive for at least 3 to 5 yr.

A 6-yr-old, intact male California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) with a systemic mycosis died after 5 wk of antifungal drug therapy. Antemortem clinical findings included hind flipper swelling, ring-lesions on skin of the flippers, and dermal nodules that increased in size and number spreading from the hind flippers and ventral abdomen to the foreflippers and muzzle. Lesions were accompanied by severe lymphadenopathy and development of systemic clinical signs despite therapy using itraconazole and later voriconazole. Histopathologic evaluation of biopsies revealed granulomatous dermatitis due to infection by fungus-producing yeast cells in tissue. Isolation attempts, using biopsied skin and tissue samples collected at necropsy, failed to yield growth of a fungus producing yeast cells like those in histologic section. Consensus polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests of biopsied skin for fungal DNA produced an amplicon having significant sequence identity with a Cystofilobasidiales, a fungus belonging to a subclade that includes several Cryptococcus spp. Histopathologic evaluation of necropsy tissues revealed a systemic mycosis with yeast cells disseminated throughout subcutis, lymph nodes, and viscera. Hepatic necrosis was identified associated with acute liver failure, possibly from the voriconazole administration. This is the first report documenting the clinical presentation, treatment, and pathologic findings of infection associated with Cystofilobasidiales in a marine mammal and serves to expand the understanding of mycoses in pinnipeds.

Northern sea otter (Enhydra lutris kenyoni) abundance has decreased dramatically over portions of southwest Alaska, USA, since the mid-1980s, and this stock is currently listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. In contrast, adjacent populations in south central Alaska, USA, and Russia have been stable to increasing during the same period. Sea otters bordering the area classified in the recent decline were live-captured during 2004-2006 at Bering Island, Russia, and the Kodiak Archipelago, Alaska, USA, to evaluate differences in general health and current exposure status to marine and terrestrial pathogens. Although body condition was lower in animals captured at Bering Island, Russia, than it was at Kodiak, USA, clinical pathology values did not reveal differences in general health between the two regions. Low prevalences of antibodies (5%) were found in Kodiak, USA, and on Bering Island, Russia, to Toxoplasma gondii, Sarcocystis neurona, and Leptospira interrogans. Exposure to phocine herpesvirus-1 was found in both Kodiak, USA (15.2%), and Bering Island, Russia (2.3%). Antibodies to Brucella spp. were found in 28% of the otters tested on Bering Island, Russia, compared with only 2.7% of the samples from Kodiak, USA. Prevalence of exposure to Phocine distemper virus (PDV) was 41% in Kodiak, USA, but 0% on Bering Island, Russia. Archived sera from southwest and south-central Alaska dating back to 1989 were negative for PDV, indicating exposure occurred in sea otters in Kodiak, USA, in recent years. Because PDV can be highly pathogenic in naïve and susceptible marine mammal populations, tissues should be examined to explore the contribution of this virus to otter deaths. Our results reveal an increase in exposure to pathogens in sea otters in Kodiak, Alaska, USA, since the 1990 s.

A previously beach-stranded, juvenile, male, bottlenose dolphin ( Tursiops truncatus) was diagnosed with vertebral osteomyelitis of unknown etiology. Antemortem serological testing suggested past or current Brucella sp. infection; however, this could not be confirmed prior to death despite multiple isolation attempts from aspirates, blood, and biopsies. Systemic antibiotics were administered for over a year to control the suspected infection; however, the animal succumbed peracutely to infection by a highly pathogenic, enterotoxin-secreting Staphylococcus sp. Gross necropsy findings included a fistulous tract leading to locally extensive osteomyelitis of a coccygeal vertebra with sequestra and osteophytes from which a Brucella species was isolated. Histopathological examination of intestine revealed pseudomembranous enteritis with a uniform population of intraluminal Gram-positive cocci. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in pure culture from the intestine and tested positive for the staphylococcal enterotoxin A gene by polymerase chain reaction analysis. Serum taken shortly before death had endotoxin and elevated antibody titers to staphylococcal enterotoxin A when compared to samples collected during a period of apparent good health 18 months earlier. The isolation of a pyrogenic toxin superantigen-producing staphylococcal isolate, clinical signs, and diagnostic findings in this animal resembled some of those noted in human toxic shock syndrome. The present case highlights the clinical challenges of treating chronic illnesses, complications of long-term antibiotic use, and promotion of pathogenic strains in cases of prolonged rehabilitation of marine mammals.

Bumblefoot (pododermatitis), often described as the most significant environmental disease of captive penguins, is commonly due to excessive pressure or trauma on the plantar surface of the avian foot, resulting in inflammation or necrosis and causing severe swelling, abrasions, or cracks in the skin. Although not formally evaluated in penguins, contributing factors for bumblefoot are thought to be similar to those initiating the condition in raptors and poultry. These factors include substrate, body weight, and lack of exercise. The primary purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate variables potentially contributing to the development and duration of plantar lesions in aquarium-maintained African penguins (Spheniscus demersus), including sex, weight, age, season, exhibit activity, and territory substrate. Results indicate that males develop significantly more plantar lesions than females. Penguins weighing between 3.51 and 4.0 kg develop plantar lesions significantly more often than penguins weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 kg, and because male African penguins ordinarily weigh significantly more than females, weight is likely a contributing factor in the development of lesions in males compared with females. Significantly more plantar lesions were observed in penguins standing for greater than 50% of their time on exhibit than swimming. Penguins occupying smooth concrete territories developed more plantar lesions compared with penguins occupying grate territories. Recommendations for minimizing bumblefoot in African penguins include training penguins for monthly foot examinations for early detection of plantar lesions predisposing for the disease, encouraging swimming activity, and replacing smooth surfaces on exhibit with surfaces providing variable degrees of pressure and texture on the feet.

The primary objectives of this study were to validate a canine relaxin RIA for use in otariids and phocids and consider practical applications. For 6 captive Northern fur seal females, serum samples were grouped and examined according to pregnancy (n=13), post-partum (n=8) and non-pregnancy (n=6), and, for 2 captive Northern fur seal males, serum samples were grouped and examined together regardless of age (2 mo-15 yrs, n=6). Placental tissue was available for examination from one Northern fur seal, Steller sea lion and harbor seal. The validation process involved several steps using an acid-acetone extraction process to isolate a relaxin-containing fraction in pools of serum from each group of fur seals and placental tissue from each seal species. A relaxin-like substance was detected in extracts of pregnant, non-pregnant and male serum and placental tissue in a dose-responsive manner as increasing volumes of respective extracts or amounts of canine relaxin were introduced into the assay. In raw serum samples, mean immuno-reactive relaxin concentrations were higher (P

The use of satellite tags to monitor pinnipeds in their natural habitats has become a common practice. However, near-continuous long-term observations of the behavior of tagged ani- mals, the process of tag detachment, and regular close examination of the tagging site to detect any development of tag-induced lesions have not been reported. The present study investigated these issues. Dummy satellite tags were glued to two captive male Pacific harbor seals Phoca vitulina richardsi using mesh or no mesh attachment. Tag attachment and animal health and behavior were monitored during the 8 mo attachment period. No tag-associated changes in animal health or behav- ior were noted until the tags started to loosen a few days before detachment. We found no differences in the strength or length of attachment associated with mesh or no mesh attachment. There was a small area of superficial skin irritation associated with the mesh attachment due to cracked epoxy rubbing against the seal. Although this was a small pilot study, we concluded that the satellite tag attachment and detachment processes were without significant adverse effect, that the tagged seals' behavior was not significantly altered, and that it is likely that these findings will hold true for other small phocid seals.

Domoic acid is a glutaminergic neurotoxin produced by marine algae such as Pseudo-nitzschia australis. California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) ingest the toxin when foraging on planktivorous fish. Adult females comprise 60% of stranded animals admitted for rehabilitation due to acute domoic acid toxicosis and commonly suffer from reproductive failure, including abortions and premature live births. Domoic acid has been shown to cross the placenta exposing the fetus to the toxin. To determine whether domoic acid was playing a role in reproductive failure in sea lion rookeries, 67 aborted and live-born premature pups were sampled on San Miguel Island in 2005 and 2006 to investigate the causes for reproductive failure. Analyses included domoic acid, contaminant and infectious disease testing, and histologic examination. Pseudo-nitzschia spp. were present both in the environment and in sea lion feces, and domoic acid was detected in the sea lion feces and in 17% of pup samples tested. Histopathologic findings included systemic and localized inflammation and bacterial infections of amniotic origin, placental abruption, and brain edema. The primary lesion in five animals with measurable domoic acid concentrations was brain edema, a common finding and, in some cases, the only lesion observed in aborted premature pups born to domoic acid-intoxicated females in rehabilitation. Blubber organochlorine concentrations were lower than those measured previously in premature sea lion pups collected in the 1970s. While the etiology of abortion and premature parturition was varied in this study, these results suggest that domoic acid contributes to reproductive failure on California sea lion rookeries.

This paper describes the development of rapid immunodiagnostic tests for the detection of storage mite infestations in cereals and cereal products. The study's first phase (proof of concept) involved the production of a species-specific enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) for the flour mite, Acarus siro (L.), a major pest of stored commodities. The specificity of this new assay was assessed against key stored product contaminants (13 species of mites of which three were predatory, five species of insects and five species of fungi) in the presence and absence of grain. The assay was species-specific (no cross-reactivity to other storage contaminants) and was unaffected by the presence of cereal antigens in the extract. In the study's second phase, species- and genera-specific ELISAs were developed for a range of key storage mite pests: the cosmopolitan food mite (Lepidoglyphus destructor), the grocers' itch mite (Glycyphagus domesticus), the grainstack mite (Tyrophagus longior), mites of the Tyrophagus and Glycyphagus generas, and all storage mites. All tests were demonstrably specific to target species or genera, with no cross-reactions observed to other storage pest contaminants or cereals. The final, validation phase, involved a comparative assessment of the species-specific A. siro and the genus-specific Tyrophagus ELISAs with the flotation technique using laboratory and field samples. Both ELISAs were quantitative (0–30 mites per 10 g wheat) and produced good comparative data with the flotation technique (A. siro r2=0.91, Tyrophagus spp. r2=0.99).

Background: Chevron osteotomy, a commonly performed procedure for the treatment of hallux valgus, results in osteonecrosis of the first metatarsal head in 0% to 20% of cases. The aim of this study was to map out the arrangement of the vascular supply to the first metatarsal head and its relationship to the limbs of the chevron osteotomy. Methods: Ten cadaveric lower limbs were injected with an India ink-latex mixture, and the feet were dissected to assess the blood supply to the first metatarsal head. The dissection was carried out by tracing the branches of the dorsalis pedis and posterior tibial vessels. A distal chevron osteotomy was mapped, with the limbs of the osteotomy set at an angle of 60° from the geometric center of the first metatarsal head. The relationship of the limbs of the osteotomy to the blood vessels was recorded. Results: The first metatarsal head was found to be supplied by branches from the first dorsal metatarsal, first plantar metatarsal, and medial plantar arteries. The first dorsal metatarsal artery was the dominant vessel among the three arteries in eight specimens. All of the vessels formed a plexus at the plantar-lateral aspect of the metatarsal neck, just proximal to the capsular attachment, with a varying number of branches from the plexus then entering the metatarsal head. The plantar limb of the proposed chevron cuts exited through this plexus of vessels in all specimens. Contrary to the widely held view, only minor vascular branches could be found entering the dorsal aspect of the neck. Conclusions: The identification of the plantar-lateral corner of the metatarsal neck as the major site of vascular ingress into the first metatarsal head suggests that constructing the chevron osteotomy with a long plantar limb exiting well proximal to the capsular attachment may decrease the postoperative prevalence of osteonecrosis of the first metatarsal head.

The product of the PPP1R3B gene (G(L)) is the regulatory subunit of PP1 - a serine/threonine phosphatase involved in the modulation of glycogen synthesis in the liver and skeletal muscle. The PPP1R3B gene is located on chromosome 8p23 in a region that has been linked with type 2 diabetes and maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY). We examined whether sequence variants at the PPP1R3B locus are responsible for the linkage with diabetes observed at this location. RT-PCR analysis revealed the existence of two alternative promoters. These and the two exons of this gene were sequenced in the probands of 13 Joslin families showing the strongest evidence of linkage at 8p23. A total of 20 variants were observed: two in the 5' flanking region, one in the intron (9 bp 5' of exon 2), and 17 in the 3' UTR. The intronic variant generated a new acceptor splice site, resulting in an alternative splice variant with a longer 5' UTR. However, neither this nor other variants segregated with diabetes in the 13 'linked' families. Furthermore, allele frequencies were similar in 90 family probands from the Joslin Study and 347 unrelated controls. Thus, genetic variability in the PPP1R3B gene does not appear to contribute to diabetes in our mostly Caucasian families. However, a role cannot be excluded in other populations such as the Japanese, among whom linkage to diabetes is also observed at 8p23 and a non-synonymous mutation has been detected in the PPP1R3B gene.

The mediation of nociception with analgesic medications has not been well documented in elasmobranchs. The purpose of this study was to determine effective analgesic doses of the opioid agonist-antagonist, butorphanol, and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, ketoprofen, in an elasmobranch. This was evaluated by repetitively assessing minimum anesthetic concentrations of the immersion anesthetic, tricaine methanesulfonate (MS-222), required to prevent response to noxious stimuli in chain dogfish (Scyliorhinus retifer) when administered multiple doses of each of the analgesics (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, and 5.0 mg/kg butorphanol and 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 4.0 mg/kg ketoprofen). Baseline concentrations of MS-222 required to prevent a response to a noxious stimulus were determined for each animal and served as the controls. Although individual animals displayed a reduction in MS-222 concentration with various doses of both analgesics, no statistically significant difference was noted between control animals and animals given analgesics. It is plausible that unique elasmobranch anatomy, lack of appropriate medication dose or timing of administration, and other physiological factors not yet identified may have contributed to the lack of apparent efficacy of the analgesics evaluated in this study. Zoo Biol 0:1–10, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Two types of trap, the BT Trap and PC(TM) pitfall cone trap, were evaluated against the most widely used method of sampling and sieving for their ability to detect low numbers of storage mites (Acarus siro, Tyrophagus longior and Lepidoglyphus destructor) in bulk oilseed rape, under UK maritime conditions. In addition, a synthetic lure (2-nonanone) was incorporated into the two types of trap to assess whether its presence improved trapping performance. The BT traps and PC traps were significantly more effective in detecting low numbers of mites of all species compared with sampling and sieving. The PC trap with synthetic lure was the most effective method. As the PC trap is already widely used for monitoring insects in cereal bulks in the UK, extending its application to include oilseed rape, and to detect mites, would be a logical and cost effective extension of its use.

Recent success propagating captive beluga has resulted from combined efforts by North American zoos and aquariums to manage disparate collections as a single population. This success has provided a tremendous opportunity to increase our understanding of beluga reproductive biology. Blood samples were collected on a weekly to biweekly basis from 23 female and 12 male beluga, ranging in age from 2–15 years, for analysis of serum progesterone (P) and testosterone (T), respectively. Peri-parturient observational data, including food intake, duration and signs of labor, and nursing patterns were collected from 15 days prepartum to 30 days postpartum during 21 births. Total body lengths and weights were collected from 10 captive-born beluga. For female beluga, the mean (±SD) age, body length, and weight at first conceptions were 9.1±2.8 years, 318.0±9.1 cm, and 519±84 kg. Thirty-five luteal phases and 13 conceptions were detected from January–June, and 70% of luteal phases and 80% conceptions occurred from March–May. The mean luteal phase and total estrous cycle lengths were 30.0±6.5 days and 48.0±4.6 days, respectively. For male beluga, the mean age that males sired their first calf was 13.3±2.6 years. Compared to younger males ( 8 years of age, 5.0 ng/ml) were elevated significantly only during the interval from January–April. Highest T concentrations (6.2±4.9 ng/ml) were recorded from January–March, whereas nadir concentrations (1.1±1.0 ng/ml) were detected from August–September. The mean gestation length was 475.0±20.4 days (n=9). For parturition, the mean time from the first appearance of fluke or rostrum to delivery, delivery to placental passage, and delivery to nursing were 4.4±2.9 hr, 7.6±1.8 hr, and 43±45 hr, respectively. All cows had decreased food intake on the day of delivery, with 44% having zero intake. Peak 24-hr nursing activity occurred 3.9±2.7 days post-partum. Growth (i.e., body weight and length) as a function of age were well described by the Gompertz model (r2=0.91, 0.93). Based on the model, growth in body weight and length were significantly greater in males compared to females. Predicted birth weight (88.9 kg) was similar for both sexes, however, and male calves were predicted to be shorter (154.3 cm) than female calves (160.7 cm). The results provide the first descriptions of captive beluga reproductive physiology, including endocrinology, peri-parturient behavior, growth, and reproductive maturity. This knowledge is important for helping to maintain genetically diverse, self-sustaining populations of captive beluga whales. Zoo Biol 24:29–49, 2005. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Serum ferritin concentration correlates with tissue iron stores in humans, horses, calves, dogs, cats, and pigs. Serum ferritin is considered the best serum analyte to predict total body iron stores in these species, and is more reliable than serum iron or total iron-binding capacity, both of which may be affected by disorders unrelated to iron adequacy or excess (including hypoproteinemia, chronic infection, hemolytic anemia, hypothyroidism, renal disease, and drug administration). Iron overload has been documented to result in hemochromatosis in captive northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus); therefore, we developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to measure serum ferritin in this species. The assay uses two murine anti-canine ferritin monoclonal antibodies in a sandwich arrangement that was originally used in an ELISA to measure serum ferritin in dogs. Ferritin isolated from fur seal liver was used as a standard. Ferritin standards were linear from 0 to 50 ng/ml. Recovery of purified ferritin from fur seal serum varied from 89% to 99%. The within-assay variability was 6%, and the assay-to-assay variability for two different samples was 10% and 16%. Zoo Biol 23:79-84, 2004.© 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Iron storage disease (hemochromatosis) has been reported in many species of both captive and free-ranging animals. In this study we examined the relationship between this disease and concentrations of iron analytes in aquarium-held northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus). Sera were analyzed for iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, ceruloplasmin, and haptoglobin concentrations in a retrospective study that included samples taken over a 14-year period. The animals ranged in age from

African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) are common display animals in North American zoos and aquariums. At present, 43 American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA)-accredited institutions maintain over 700 of these birds. A survey of facilities found that only seven institutions maintain their birds in “saltwater habitats” (natural, brine, or artificial seawater systems), while the remaining institutions provide freshwater habitats. Penguins maintained in freshwater habitats commonly receive dietary salt supplements, though evidence is lacking as to the value of this practice. This study was designed to evaluate the necessity of salt supplementation in African penguins. We report the results of a randomized, 10-month comparison of plasma electrolytes (Na, Cl, and K) between groups of 10 salt-supplemented and nonsupplemented birds living in a freshwater environment. The results showed no significant differences between the two groups. An interfacility comparison at the same time points revealed temporal pattern differences in analyte values between the facilities; however, the absolute concentrations did not exceed clinical ranges found in healthy birds. Furthermore, single time-point comparisons between wild and captive African penguins indicated similar sodium concentrations, while potassium and chloride concentrations varied between groups. Finally, the plasma electrolyte levels in 20 birds remained statistically unchanged after a 60-day withdrawal from salt supplementation. This study provides experimental evidence that African penguins maintained in freshwater exhibits on a herring-, capelin-, and squid-based diet do not require salt supplementation. In addition to the practical implications regarding the need for salt supplementation for captive birds, the results also have theoretical significance. They provide evidence that penguins do not need to ingest high salt concentrations to remain in electrolyte balance. In this regard, the ion regulatory mechanisms in penguins are similar to those in terrestrial mammals and birds. Zoo Biol 23:397–408, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

The sera of adult aquarium-held pinnipeds from four species (family Phocidae: harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) and gray seals (Halichoerus grypus); family Otariidae: northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) and California sea lions (Zalophus californianus)) were analyzed for vitamin A (retinol), vitamin E (α-tocopherol), total cholesterol, triglycerides, phospholipids, and fatty acids. Each subject animal was healthy at the time of blood collection, was fasted for at least 12 hr prior to sampling, and was maintained on a constant diet and supplement regime throughout the study. Retinol values for the four species ranged from 0.16 to 0.92 μg/mL, with the lowest concentrations seen in the harbor seals and the highest in the northern fur seals. Vitamin E values ranged from 10.55 to 43.58 μg/mL, with northern fur seals showing the highest and gray seals the lowest levels. Vitamin E/lipid ratios (cholesterol, triglyceride, phospholipid, and total lipids) were also examined. A significant correlation was seen between vitamin E and total lipids (P

The study forms the first part of the development of an immunoassay to detect storage mite infestations in cereals and their derived products. This was achieved by examining the suitability of an existing monoclonal antibody (MAb) raised against the cosmopolitan food mite, Lepidoglyphus destructor (Schrank). The results demonstrate that in the absence of grain the MAb could detect and quantify unknown numbers of L. destructor, ranging between 0 and 100 adult mites. However, in the presence of grain the sensitivity of the assay decreased. This was probably because the existing antibody had not been raised for this purpose. To overcome this, an additional polyclonal antibody was used which gave satisfactory detection of 0 to 100 adult mites seeded in 5 g of grain. The work has shown the excellent potential of an immunoassay method for the rapid detection of storage mites in unmilled cereals.

Aeration is a promising alternative to the use of pesticides for the control of storage insects by cooling bulk grain, but its effectiveness against mite pests is neither fully understood nor optimised. For this reason, the productivity of three species of storage mites, Acarus siro, Lepidoglyphus destructor and Tyrophagus longior, was studied in a laboratory-based experiment at four combinations of temperature and humidity (10°C and 70% RH, 10°C and 80% RH, 20°C and 70% RH, 20°C and 80% RH) with and without an airflow (at 10 m3/h/tonne, equalling 2.5 l/s/tonne, in tubes containing 15 g of grain). This is the first time that a study has examined the three principal components of aeration separately from each other. The effect of these factors was different for each species. For A. siro, temperature was the most important factor, while airflow and humidity were of similar but lesser importance. For T. longior, temperature was more important than humidity, while the reverse was true for L. destructor. For these two species, airflow was the least important factor. The airflow decreased the productivity of L. destructor and T. longior but increased the productivity of A. siro. This increase in productivity confirms that, in practice, prevention of mite infestations, in particular A. siro, will require storage of grain at low temperature, relative humidity and moisture content.

Handling, including blood collection, has often been discouraged in molting penguins because it is considered an additional stress imposed on birds already experiencing major physiologic stress associated with molting. To evaluate the degree of physiologic stress posed by molting, we compared the hematologic and plasma biochemical values and hormone levels of molting and nonmolting African penguins, Spheniscus demersus. Five male and 5 female penguins randomly chosen were given complete physical examinations, were weighed, and blood samples were taken at 7 time points before, during, and after the molt. Data were analyzed by linear mixed-model analysis of variance. Throughout the study, behavior and appetite remained normal. Catecholamine levels were highly variable within and among subjects, whereas mean corticosterone levels were significantly different between baseline, molt, and postmolt values. Significant differences from baseline values were observed in many of the hematologic analytes; however, only decreases in hematocrit and red blood cell count values were considered clinically significant. Anemia due to experimentally induced blood loss as a possible cause of the significant hematologic changes was ruled out based on results of a follow-up control study during the nonmolt season, which showed no significant changes in hematocrit level or total red blood cell counts when using similar sampling protocols, which indicates that these changes were associated with molt.

A 16-year-old female white whale, Delphinapterus leucas, died after nearly 18 months of chronic lymphopenia and pyogranulomatous dermatitis. Necropsy revealed rupture of the aorta with hemorrhage into the cranial mediastinum and between fascial planes of the ventral neck musculature. Multiple foci of ulcerative dermatitis and panniculitis were present across the thorax and abdomen and surrounded the genital folds. In addition, there was a chronic proliferative pleuritis with over 20 liters of histiocytic exudate in the thoracic cavity. Acid-fast bacteria consistent with Mycobacterium sp. were identified in sections of skin lesions and in cytospins of pleural exudate. Cultures of pleura and 1 skin lesion collected at necropsy yielded sparse growth of an acid-fast bacillus with colony characteristics and morphology consistent with Mycobacterium marinum. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis confirmed the presence of M. marinum DNA in samples of skin. This is the first documented occurrence of mycobacteriosis in a white whale and is a unique presentation of mycobacterial dermatitis and panniculitis with chronic pleuritis in a cetacean. The improved PCR-RFLP protocol utilized in this case unifies techniques from several protocols to differentiate between species of Nocardia and rapidly growing mycobacteria clinically relevant to aquatic animals.

OBJECTIVES Our objectives were to determine whether angiotensin-1 converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism was associated with the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) and its progression/regression in response to fluvastatin therapy in the Lipoprotein and Coronary Atherosclerosis Study (LCAS) population. BACKGROUND Genetic factors are involved in susceptibility to CAD. Angiotensin-1 converting enzyme I/D polymorphism, which accounts for half of the variance of plasma and tissue levels of ACE, has been implicated in susceptibility to CAD and myocardial infarction (MI). METHODS Angiotensin-1 converting enzyme genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Fasting plasma lipids were measured and quantitative coronary angiograms were obtained at baseline and 2.5 years following randomization to fluvastatin or placebo. RESULTS Ninety-one subjects had DD, 198 ID and 75 II genotypes. The mean blood pressure, minimum lumen diameter (MLD), number of coronary lesions and total occlusions were not significantly different at baseline or follow-up among the genotypes. There was a significant genotype-by-treatment interaction for total cholesterol (p = 0.018), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (p = 0.005) and apolipoprotein (apo) B (p = 0.045). In response to fluvastatin therapy, subjects with DD, compared with those with ID and II genotypes, had a greater reduction in total cholesterol (19% vs. 15% vs. 13%), LDL-C (31% vs. 25% vs. 21%) and apo B (23% vs. 15% vs. 12%). Definite progression was less (14%) and regression was more common (24%) in DD as compared with those with ID (32% and 17%) and II (33% and 3%) genotypes (p = 0.023). Changes in the mean MLD and lesion-specific MLD also followed the same trend. CONCLUSIONS Angiotensin-1 converting enzyme I/D polymorphism is associated with the response of plasma lipids and coronary atherosclerosis to treatment with fluvastatin. Subjects with DD genotype had a greater reduction in LDL-C, a higher rate of regression and a lower rate of progression of CAD.

In the C57BL/Wld s (Wld) mouse strain, both PNS and CNS axonal disintegration during Wallerian degeneration is dramatically slowed, with isolated axons being able to conduct compound action potentials (CAPs) for several weeks post-transection. The ability to conduct a CAP signifies the presence of an intact plasma membrane, normal ion gradients, and functioning ion channels. In neurons, ion homeostasis is primarily regulated by the Na + –K + –ATPase, which utilizes approximately 50% of neuronal energy output. To investigate the possibility that the Wld mutation prolongs axonal degeneration by conferring a more favorable energetic status to neurons or alters metabolism, we used 31 P and 1 H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to compare the cerebral and muscle energy metabolism, membrane phospholipid contents, and water-soluble metabolites of Wld and wild-type (C57BL/6J [6J], and BALB/c) mouse strains. We first demonstrate that, with advancing age, transected Wld CNS nerves degenerate faster, parallelling previous findings in the PNS. We found significantly decreased phosphocreatine and phosphomonoester concentrations in the brains of Wld mice at 1- and 2-months of age compared to both 6J and BALB/c mice, but we failed to find differences in the adenylate (ATP, ADP, or AMP) or phospholipid concentrations. In another excitable tissue, skeletal muscle, no differences in energy-containing metabolites were detected. High resolution 1 H MRS indicated that at 1 month of age, Wld brains have cytosolic levels of glutamate and phosphocholine that are significantly decreased, relative to total N -acetyl aspartate content. Our results demonstrate that delayed Wallerian degeneration in the C57BL/Wld mouse strain is associated with altered cerebral metabolism, although these changes may be secondary to the mutation.

Mutations in human lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene are potential risk factors for susceptibility to coronary artery disease (CAD). The objectives of this study were to determine the influence LPL mutations Asn291Ser and Ser447Ter on plasma lipid levels, regression and progression of CAD, clinical events rate, and response to fluvastatin therapy in the Lipoprotein and Coronary Atherosclerosis Study (LCAS) population. LCAS is a double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study designed to test the influence of fluvastatin on progression or regression of CAD. The Asn291Ser and Ser447Ter genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction enzyme digestion. Fasting plasma lipid profiles were measured and quantitative coronary angiography was performed at baseline and 2.5 years following randomization. Fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events during the follow-up period were recorded. A total of 4% (14/363) and 18% (62/352) of the subjects had the Asn291Ser and Ser447Ter mutations, respectively. Overall, there was no statistically association between the Asn291Ser and Ser447Ter mutations and the baseline or final mean plasma levels of lipids, number of coronary lesions, total occlusions, the mean minimal lumen diameter (MLD) stenoses and the clinical events rate. However, patients with the Ser447Ter variant had a slightly higher baseline high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) level (46.2 +/- 12 vs 43.2 +/- 11, P = 0.057), less increase in plasma HDL levels in response to fluvastatin therapy (3 vs 11%, P = 0.056) and a higher cardiovascular events rate (23 vs 13%, P = 0.056). Thus, the Ser447Ter variant had a modest influence on plasma HDL levels and the rate of cardiovascular events. These changes were of borderline statistical significance. Neither the Ser447Ter nor the Asn291Ser mutation had a major impact on susceptibility to CAD, progression or regression of CAD, clinical events rate or response to fluvastatin therapy in LCAS population.

Information on the physiological responses of plants to below-ground herbivory is sparse. Effects of root herbivory by Diabrotica virgifera Leconte and the interactions of herbivory and soil moisture on photosynthesis and water relations of maize (Zea mays) were examined in a greenhouse. Plants were infested with 0, 50 and 100 larvae of D. v. virgifera at the six-leaf stage of development and water stress induced to half of the plants in each treatment. The 100-larvae treatment removed 67% of the roots and the 50-larvae treatment removed 19.6% of the roots, as compared to uninfested controls. Fifty-five days after infestation, damaged plants had recovered as there were no significant differences in root volumes among the infestation levels. Measurements of photosynthesis, stomatal conductance and leaf relative water content were not significantly different among larval treatments at 7, 13, 24 and 30 days after infestation. When soil moisture was withheld, however, photosynthesis and stomatal conductance were significantly reduced. On day 24, water stressed plants infested with 100 larvae had a 23% decrease in photosynthesis as compared to well-watered plants that were uninfested. These results indicate the potential that maize plants have to tolerate root herbivory by D. v. virgifera and that the effects were greater when soil moisture was reduced.

31P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS) provides new biochemical information on mitochondrial disorders affecting brain and muscle. To elucidate the mechanisms of mitochondrial abnormalities, however, animal models are needed. We assessed the movbr (mottled viable brindled) mouse for its value in studying (1) energetics of a mitochondrial disorder and (2) 31P-MRS changes associated with mitochondrial abnormalities in vivo. The maximal activity of succinate-cytochrome c reductase was significantly reduced in movbr muscle compared to controls, whereas cytochrome oxidase activity was only reduced in movbr brain. 31P-MRS of movbr brain showed an increased pH, but no changes in any metabolite ratios. The phosphocreatine (PCr) recovery rate after exercise was reduced in muscles from movbr mice, indicating impairment of oxidative metabolism. We conclude that movbr brain and muscle tissue have biochemical abnormalities consistent with mitochondrial impairment. The PCr recovery rate, measured by 31P-MRS, was sensitive to the muscle abnormality. This strain is best described as having chronic mitochondrial dysfunction. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve20: 1352–1359, 1997

Feedstock production is one of the key stages in the life cycle of biofuels. In this report, material and energy flows in the production of six cellulosic biofuel feedstocks are outlined: corn stover, miscanthus, switchgrass, willow, poplar, and forest residue. For each feedstock we develop estimates of the fertilizer intensity and energy intensity of production. We also provide composition and heating value data that are necessary in life cycle analysis of biofuels. Finally, we assess the energy intensity of transporting each feedstock to a biorefinery. In the final section of the report, we provide a summary table with feedstock production material and energy flows used in the GREET model.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked genetic disorder primarily affecting young boys, often causing mental retardation in addition to the well-known progressive muscular weakness. Normal dystrophin expression is lacking in skeletal muscle and the central nervous system (CNS) of both DMD children and the mdx mouse model. The underlying biochemical lesion causing mental impairment in DMD is unknown. 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) detects choline-containing compounds, creatine and N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) in vivo. NAA is commonly used as a chemical marker for neurons, and a decline in NAA is thought to correlate with neuronal loss. Control mice were compared to mdx using a combination of in vivo and in vitro 1H-MRS methods to determine whether neural necrosis or developmental abnormalities occur in dystrophic brain. NAA levels were normal in mdx brain compared to controls suggesting minor, if any, neuronal necrosis in dystrophic brain. In contrast, choline compounds and myo-inositol levels were increased, indicative of gliosis or developmental abnormalities in dystrophic brain.

Acute gastric dilatation with volvulus occurred in a 4-year-old female northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus). The animal had been maintained in an outdoor exhibit at Mystic Marinelife Aquarium (Mystic, Connecticut, USA) from June 1989 to March 1994. On necropsy, we observed a 360 degrees clockwise rotation of the stomach about its mesenteric axis as viewed ventrodorsally. The stomach was markedly distended with gas, fluid, and partially digested fish. The spleen followed the rotation of the stomach 360 degrees and was enlarged and congested with twisted mesentery. This is the first reported case of acute gastric dilatation with volvulus in a pinniped.

Charles Henry Gilbert (1859–1928) was a pioneering ichthyologist and an early fishery biologist of particular significance to the fisheries of the west coast of the U.S. As chairman of the Zoology Department of Leland Stanford Junior, University in Palo Alto, CA, from 1891 to 1925, Gilbert became increasingly interested in the biology of Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.). His studies of the use of scales to age salmon (ca. 1909 to 1912) led to his research on these fishes for the British Columbia Provincial Fisheries Department (1912 to 1924) and for the U.S. Bureau of Fisheries, mainly in Alaska, from about 1917 to 1927. He pioneered racial studies on salmon using the scale method, was instrumental in establishing sound tagging programs on salmon in Alaska to define their migratory patterns, and was one of the very first scientists to consider the population dynamics of northwest stocks of Pacific salmon. Above all, Gilbert was an ardent conservationist who warned both the salmon‐canning indust...