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The analysis of phyllosphere microbiomes traditionally relied on DNA extracted from whole leaves. To investigate the microbial communities on the adaxial (upper) and abaxial (lower) leaf surfaces, swabs were collected from both surfaces of two garden plants, Rhapis excelsa and Cordyline fruticosa. Samples were collected at noon and midnight and at five different locations to investigate if the phyllosphere microbial communities change with time and location. The abaxial surface of Rhapis excelsa and Cordyline fruticosa had fewer bacteria in contrast to its adaxial counterpart. This observation was consistent between noon and midnight and across five different locations. Our co-occurrence network analysis further showed that bacteria were found almost exclusively on the adaxial surface while only a small group of leaf blotch fungi thrived on the abaxial surface. There are higher densities of stomata on the abaxial surface and these openings are vulnerable ports of entry into the plant host. While one might argue about the settling of dust particles and microorganisms on the adaxial surface, we detected differences in reactive chemical activities and microstructures between the adaxial and abaxial surfaces. Our results further suggest that both plant species deploy different defence strategies to deter invading pathogens on the abaxial surface. We hypothesize that chemical and mechanical defence strategies evolved independently for harnessing and controlling phyllosphere microbiomes. Our findings have also advanced our understanding that the abaxial leaf surface is distinct from the adaxial surface and that the reduced microbial diversity is likely a consequence of plant-microbe interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bandicoots and bilbies (Order Peramelemorphia) occupy a broad range of habitats across Australia and New Guinea, from open, arid deserts to dense forests. This once diverse group has been particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and introduced eutherian predators, and numerous species extinctions and range retractions have occurred. Understanding reasons for this loss requires greater understanding of their biology. Morphology of the pinnae and tympanic bullae varies markedly among species. As hearing is important for both predator avoidance and prey location, the variability in ear morphology could reflect specialization and adaptation to specific environments, and therefore be of conservation relevance. We measured 798 museum specimens representing 29 species of Peramelemorphia. Controlling for phylogenetic relatedness and head length, pinna surface area was weakly negatively correlated with average precipitation (rainfall being our surrogate measure of vegetation productivity/complexity), and there were no environmental correlates with effective diameter (pinna width). Controlling for phylogenetic relatedness and skull length, tympanic bulla volume was negatively correlated with precipitation. Species that inhabited drier habitats, which would be open and allow sound to carry further with less obstruction, had relatively larger pinnae and tympanic bullae. In contrast, species from higher rainfall habitats, where sounds would be attenuated and diffused by dense vegetation, had the smallest pinnae and bullae, suggesting that low-frequency hearing is not as important in these habitats. Associations with temperature did not reach statistical significance. These findings highlight linkages between hearing traits and habitat that can inform conservation and management strategies for threatened species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding feeding ecology of extinct kangaroos is fundamental to understanding the evolution of kangaroos and the Australia paleoenvironment during the Oligo-Miocene. Comparisons with extant species have suggested that the macropodiforms of the Oligo/Miocene (kangaroos and allies) from the Riversleigh World Heritage Area, northern Australia, were predominantly folivorous browsers or fungivores, unlike the majority of extant species. To further test this hypothesis, we investigate the relationship between variation in cranial and mandibular shape of extant and extinct macropodiforms and ecological factors such as diet, locomotion, and body mass using 3D geometric morphometric analysis of 42 living species and eight extinct species from two radiations (the extinct clade of Balbaridae and some early representatives of the extant Macropodidae. Dietary class (fungivore, browser, grazer, and mixed feeder) correlated strongly with variation in cranial shape (20–25% of variance explained). There was also significant association between cranial shape, and both locomotor mode and body mass. In a principal component analysis of shape variation for crania (including the shape of the molar row), Riversleigh macropodiforms cluster with extant folivorous browsers on principal components (PC) 1 and 3, providing support for previous interpretations of these species as browsing kangaroos. However, as a group and regardless of phylogenetic association, the shape centroid of extinct species differs significantly from that of extant species. Riversleigh macropodiforms cluster with regular hoppers or arboreal tree kangaroos, but this may be a result of the correlation between diet and locomotor mode in kangaroos. Their similarity to extant browsers supports previous interpretations of rainforest and woodland environments at Riversleigh during the early and middle Miocene, respectively. Procrustes ANOVA Analysis of the full shape dataset and diet also shows that diet accounts for a significant portion of variation; however, when phylogeny is taken into account these results become nonsignificant. In analyses of dentary shape, some balbarid species cluster with extant mixed feeders, although this may reflect phylogenetic differences rather than ecological signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The original description of the now extinct Australian Pig-footed Bandicoot Chaeropus ecaudatus Ogilby, 1838 was based on one specimen from which the tail was missing. Re-examination of the skull thought to be the holotype of C. ecaudatus, revealed that it was associated with a skeleton with caudal vertebrae, thereby negating its type status. The holotype has not been reliably sighted since 1860 and is presumed lost as it has not been identified in world collections. We designate PA422, a skull and partial skeleton in the Australian Museum, Sydney as neotype for Chaeropus ecaudatus. This arose from a recent taxonomic revision of Chaeropus that recognized two subspecies of C. ecaudatus, prompting resolution of the type material of nominate ecaudatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth behavior of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), produced by radio frequency plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition, is studied here as a function of the CH[SUB4]/N[SUB2] ratio and Ni catalyst layer thickness. Scanning electron microscopy shows that by employing a suitable deposition (methane) to etching (nitrogen) gas fatio, it is possible to obtain the growth of nanotubes with a limited presence of amorphous carbon on the substrate surface. In particular a progressive transition from random to aligned CNTs is observed when nitrogen is added to the plasma atmosphere. The electronic structure was then investigated by C Is and valence band photoemission spectroscopy. The results show a shift of the overall spectral to a higher-binding-energy side and a larger density of the states at the Fermi level indicating the formation of metallic aligned tubes with increasing nitrogen fraction in the plasma atomsphere. The electronic structure indicates the insertion of odd-member rings in the graphene network leading to an improvement ofthe mechanical properties. The thickness of the Ni layer has a strong influence on the CNTs growth showing maximum value for nanotube formation at 20 nm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a-C:H) films were deposited, at room temperature, from a CH[sub 4]/Ar plasma produced by a radio frequency (rf) glow discharge system at 13.56 MHz, and different power values. X-ray reflectivity and Brillouin light scattering have been used to investigate the relationship between deposition conditions and elastic properties of hydrogenated amorphous carbon films. The composition of the initial gaseous mixture and the rf power input are shown to affect significantly both the mechanical and the microstructural properties of deposited films. As the fraction of methane in the feed gas is increased, both the film density and the phase velocity of the surface Rayleigh wave exhibit an enhancement, thus indicating the production of a harder material. On the other hand, x-ray reflectivity measurements suggest the occurrence of a higher degree of structural order in the sp[sup 2] lattice. Experimental findings are discussed in terms of the different chemical composition of the plasma. © 2001 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On univariate analysis, TTE was associated with significantly higher rates of sepsis, septic shock, mediastinitis, urinary tract infections, MACE, as well as higher superficial and deep wound complications. Keywords: Cardiovascular events; Complications; Esophagectomy; Pulmonary events; Surgical approach EN Cardiovascular events Complications Esophagectomy Pulmonary events Surgical approach 536 538 3 02/26/21 20210201 NES 210201 Kenny J. Oh and Csaba Gajdos are the first authors. Failure to rescue (FTR) was defined as death during hospitalization among patients who experience a complication and was considered the primary outcome variable for our analysis. [Extracted from the article]

Dieldrin and DDx removal through wastewater treatment, ozonation, and microfiltration was assessed for a water reuse project for groundwater replenishment in Monterey, California, USA. Full-scale sampling was conducted at the wastewater treatment plant, and physical wastewater treatment processes, ozonation, and microfiltration were tested at the bench scale. Removals observed through wastewater treatment, ozonation, and microfiltration were 84%, 44% to 63%, and 97% to 98%, respectively, for dieldrin, and 93%, 36% to 48%, and 92% to 94% for DDx. These were sufficient to meet California Ocean Plan water quality objectives after wastewater treatment alone. Levels in the secondary effluent, ahead of ozonation, microfiltration, reverse osmosis and advanced oxidation in the advanced water purification facility, met drinking water standards. Removal of dieldrin and DDx through wastewater treatment occurred by physical treatment processes; removal through the full-scale wastewater treatment plant, which included biological and physical treatment processes, matched removal through the physical bench-scale wastewater treatment processes. Dieldrin and DDx removal correlated with removal of volatile suspended solids, suggesting that volatile suspended solids could be used as an indicator for pesticide removal through wastewater treatment. Dieldrin and DDx concentrations were highest in the solids contact process, where biomass is accumulated for carbon removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Riversleigh World Heritage Area, northwestern Queensland, Australia, contains numerous Oligo-Miocene and Pleistocene fossil bearing deposits. Species of the suborder Macropodiformes (kangaroos and allies) described from Oligo-Miocene sediments at Riversleigh include representatives of all three macropodiform families: Macropodidae, Hypsiprymnodontidae and Balbaridae, a family of extinct fanged kangaroos. Despite extensive taxonomic study, few studies have focused on the ecology of balbarids that are present in Late Oligocene to Late Miocene faunal assemblages. Recently, several macropodiform species from Riversleigh have been described or revised that significantly alter previous interpretations of species richness and abundance at Riversleigh. In this study, Riversleigh macropodiform species richness and relative abundance is explored against a framework of recently revised taxonomic interpretations and biostratigraphy. With the exception of the Early Miocene, our results suggest that balbarids were less abundant than macropodids at Riversleigh. Balbarid species richness declined by the Early Miocene while macropodid species diversity declined from the Early Miocene to Middle Miocene and again in the Late Miocene. We also estimate body mass for macropodiform taxa throughout the Oligo-Miocene. A statistically significant increase in body mass is evident for most taxa through time. A number of ancestral macropodid genera suffer extinction in the Middle Miocene and are replaced by larger sthenurine macropodids around the time of the Miocene Climatic Optimum. Trends in faunal turnover (extinction and replacement of several macropodiform species) in the Middle Miocene are consistent with trends for other mammalian groups both from Riversleigh and globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hamstring injuries are common in sprinters and mainly occur during the terminal swing phase. Eccentric training has been shown to reduce hamstring injury rate by improving several risk factors. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that an additional swing phase-specific hamstring eccentric training in well-trained sprinters performed at the commencement of the winter preparation is more efficient to improve strength, ratio, optimum angle, and flexibility than a similar program without hamstring eccentric exercises. Twenty sprinters were randomly allocated to an eccentric (n = 10) or a control group (n = 10). Both groups performed their usual track and field training throughout the study period. Sprinters in the eccentric group performed an additional 6-week hamstring eccentric program, which was specific to the swing phase of the running cycle (eccentric high-load open-chain kinetic movements covering the whole hamstring length-tension relationship preformed at slow to moderate velocity). Isokinetic and flexibility measurements were performed before and after the intervention. The eccentric group increased hamstring peak torques in concentric at 60°⋅s-1 by 16% (p < 0.001) and at 240°⋅s-1 by 10% (p < 0.01), in eccentric at 30°⋅s-1 by 20% (p < 0.001) and at 120°⋅s-1 by 22% (p < 0.001), conventional and functional ratios by 12% (p < 0.001), and flexibility by 4° (p < 0.01), whereas the control group increased hamstring peak torques only in eccentric at 30°⋅s-1 by 6% (p ≤ 0.05) and at 1 208⋅s21 by 6% (p < 0.01). It was concluded that an additional swing phase-specific hamstring eccentric training in sprinters seems to be crucial to address different risk factors for hamstring strain injuries, such as eccentric and concentric strength, hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio ratio, and flexibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lineage zones within nine contemporaneous mammalian lineages represented in the Cenozoic fossil vertebrate record from the Riversleigh World Heritage Area in northern Australia are used to resolve a series of faunal intervals from the Late Oligocene to Late Miocene. The results agree with previous interpretations of Cenozoic biostratigraphy, provide evidence for the presence of time horizons subdividing some of the four previously recognized Riversleigh biochrons A-D and also provide evidence supporting the allocation of a greater number of Riversleigh faunas to intervals within the Riversleigh biochronology than other methods in previous work. This approach demonstrates the biostratigraphical potential of evolutionary lineages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New specimens of the late Oligocene macropodiform, Gumardee pascuali, are described, as well as two new late Oligocene to early Miocene species, G. springae sp. nov. and G. richi sp. nov. Species of Gumardee exhibit a unique combination of features, including very long upper and lower third premolars, partially lophodont molars and, in dorsoventral plane, concave lower molar row and convex upper molar row. We combined two morphological matrices to assess the phylogenetic relationships of these species. Our analysis recovered species of Gumardee as a well-supported monophyletic group, nested within Potoroinae. Gumardee richi and G. pascuali appear to be more derived than G. springae in having a more strongly developed posthypocristid that is almost hypolophid-like. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Little is known about ageing-related changes in the brain that affect emergence from general anaesthesia. We used young adult and aged Fischer 344 rats to test the hypothesis that ageing delays emergence from general anaesthesia by increasing anaesthetic sensitivity in the brain.Methods: Time to emergence was determined for isoflurane (1.5 vol% for 45 min) and propofol (8 mg kg(-1) i.v.). The dose of isoflurane required to maintain loss of righting (LOR) was established in young adult and aged rats. The efficacy of methylphenidate to reverse LOR from general anaesthesia was tested. Separate young adult and aged rats with implanted electroencephalogram (EEG) electrodes were used to test whether ageing increases sensitivity to anaesthetic-induced burst suppression.Results: Mean time to emergence from isoflurane anaesthesia was 47 s [95% CI 33, 60; young adult) compared with 243 s (95% CI 185, 308; aged). For propofol, mean time to emergence was 13.1 min (95% CI 11.9, 14.0; young adult) compared with 23.1 min (95% CI 18.8, 27.9; aged). These differences were statistically significant. When methylphenidate was administered after propofol, the mean time to emergence decreased to 6.6 min (95% CI 5.9, 7.1; young adult) and 10.2 min (95% CI 7.9, 12.3; aged). These reductions were statistically significant. Methylphenidate restored righting in all rats during continuous isoflurane anaesthesia. Aged rats had lower EEG power and were more sensitive to anaesthetic-induced burst suppression.Conclusions: Ageing delays emergence from general anaesthesia. This is due, at least in part, to increased anaesthetic sensitivity in the brain. Further studies are warranted to establish the underlying causes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the voting behaviour literature, political organizations are often mentioned as playing an important role in mobilizing a deactivated electorate. Nevertheless, researchers have paid little attention to the relationship between organization strength and Black voter participation. In this study, a direct test of the organizational strength hypothesis is examined by utilizing official voter turnout data at the county level from the November 2004 elections. Controlling for socio-demographic factors, campaign factors and the impact of Black Churches, the findings show that there is a positive and significant relationship between political organizations and Black turnout. The findings suggest that the Democratic Party and civil rights organizations can play a critical role in promoting Black turnout if they improve upon their organizational features. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

For many highly mobile species, the marine environment presents few obvious barriers to gene flow. Even so, there is considerable diversity within and among species, referred to by some as the 'marine speciation paradox'. The recent and diverse radiation of delphinid cetaceans (dolphins) represents a good example of this. Delphinids are capable of extensive dispersion and yet many show fine-scale genetic differentiation among populations. Proposed mechanisms include the division and isolation of populations based on habitat dependence and resource specializations, and habitat release or changing dispersal corridors during glacial cycles. Here we use a phylogenomic approach to investigate the origin of differentiated sympatric populations of killer whales (Orcinus orca). Killer whales show strong specialization on prey choice in populations of stable matrifocal social groups (ecotypes), associated with genetic and phenotypic differentiation. Our data suggest evolution in sympatry among populations of resource specialists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exceptionally well-preserved skulls and postcranial elements of a new species of the plesiomorphic stem macropodiform Balbaroo have been recovered from middle Miocene freshwater limestone deposits in the Riversleigh World Heritage Area of northwestern Queensland, Australia. This constitutes the richest intraspecific sample for any currently known basal “kangaroo”, and, along with additional material referred to Balbaroo fangaroo, provides new insights into structural variability within the most prolific archaic macropodiform clade – Balbaridae. Qualitative and metric evaluations of taxonomic boundaries demonstrate that the previously distinct species Nambaroo bullockensis is a junior synonym of B. camfieldensis. Furthermore, coupled Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses reveal that our new Balbaroo remains represent the most derived member of the Balbaroo lineage, and are closely related to the middle Miocene B. camfieldensis, which like most named balbarid species is identifiable only from isolated jaws. The postcranial elements of Balbaroo concur with earlier finds of the stratigraphically oldest balbarid skeleton, Nambaroo gillespieae, and suggest that quadrupedal progression was a primary gait mode as opposed to bipedal saltation. All Balbaroo spp. have low-crowned bilophodont molars, which are typical for browsing herbivores inhabiting the densely forested environments envisaged for middle Miocene northeastern Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of the spinifex hopping mouse Notomys alexis in the diet of lesser salmon catfish Neoarius graeffei from the Ashburton River, Western Australia, is reported for the first time. The consumption of terrestrial mammals by Australian freshwater fishes is widely considered to be an infrequent occurrence, of limited importance to aquatic food webs. However, remains of N. alexis were present within the stomachs of 44% of N. graeffei sampled, constituting approximately 95% of the total stomach contents. These findings suggest that N. graeffei will consume large quantities of terrestrial vertebrates when available, and may represent a valuable energy source for this ecologically important species in dryland rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describeBulungu palaragen. et sp. nov., a new fossil peramelemorphian (bandicoot), based on a single well-preserved skull and additional dental specimens from Late Oligocene to Middle Miocene (Faunal Zones A–C) limestone deposits at the Riversleigh World Heritage Property, Queensland, and two dental specimens from the Early–Middle Miocene Kutjamarpu Local Fauna, South Australia. This is the first fossil peramelemorphian species to be reported from more than a single fossil fauna, with its inferred distribution extending from north-western Queensland (modern latitude ∼19°S) to north-eastern South Australia (modern latitude ∼28°S). The presence ofBulungu palarain Riversleigh Faunal Zones A, B and C and in the Kutjamarpu Local Fauna supports the current interpretation that these faunas span similar ages, namely Late Oligocene–Middle Miocene. Phylogenetic analyses of an expanded 74 morphological character dataset using maximum parsimony and Bayesian approaches, both with and without a molecular scaffold, consistently placeBulunguand the Oligo-Miocene formsGaladiandYaralaoutside crown-group Peramelemorphia. These analyses also fail to support a close relationship between the PlioceneIschnodon australis(previously considered the oldest known representative of the extant peramelemorphian family Thylacomyidae) and the modern thylacomyid genusMacrotis. With an estimated body mass of ∼130 g,Bulungu palarais smaller than any known Recent bandicoot from Australia, although some modern New Guinean species are similar in size. The small size and craniodental morphology ofB. palarasuggest that it was predominantly or exclusively insectivorous, perhaps ecologically similar to small New Guinean dasyurids such asMurexechinus melanurus.Together with the small-bodied (< 100 g), insectivorousYarala burchfieldiand large-bodied (∼900 g), faunivorousGaladi speciosus,Bulungu palarademonstrates that Oligo-Miocene Australian peramelemorphians filled ecological niches that today are mostly occupied by dasyurids, and that a major faunal turnover event occurred at some point after the Middle Miocene. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:18955DCC-DB8C-4216-AF38-921E1E5C1F79 [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Poster Highlights: Poster highlights 15: Particles and microbeams OC-0475: Cranial SRS dosimetry audits of complex treatments of multiple brain metastases M. Shaw, J. Kenny, A. Alves, C. Davey, S. Keehan, J. Supple, R. Brown, A. Cole, F. Kadeer, J. Lye. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives Adolescents with HIV infection acquired perinatally or in early childhood are becoming sexually active, but little is known about fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Multicentre data on pregnancy outcomes in this population are described here. Methods A retrospective case note review of pregnant women with perinatal/early acquired HIV infection, conceiving before 1 September 2009 and attending participating centres in the UK and Ireland, was carried out. Results Among 252 women with perinatal/early acquired infection aged 12 years and older under follow-up in 21 centres, 42 pregnancies were reported in 30 women (19 women with a single pregnancy, 10 women with two pregnancies, and one woman with three pregnancies). Fifteen women (50%) had previous AIDS-defining diagnoses. The median age at first reported pregnancy was 18 years (range 14-22 years). Of the 42 pregnancies, 34 (81%) were reportedly unplanned, 31 (74%) involved regular partners, and in 21 (50%) of the 42 pregnancies the partners were reported to be unaware of maternal HIV status. Fifteen of the 42 pregnancies (36%) were electively terminated, six of the 42 (14%) resulted in first-trimester miscarriages and 21 of the 42 (50%) resulted in live births. Maternal viral load was detectable close to delivery in seven of 21 pregnancies (33%). Four infants required neonatal intensive care, three of whom were delivered preterm. One infant is HIV infected, there are ongoing concerns about the development of three of 21 infants (14%), and two of 21 (10%) have been fostered. Conclusions Despite access to ongoing sexual health and contraceptive services, unplanned pregnancies are occurring in young women growing up with HIV. Pregnancy care and prevention of onward transmission require complex case management for this emerging population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: Delayed ventricular repolarisation is manifested electrocardiographically in a prolongation of the QT interval. Such prolongation can lead to potentially fatal Torsades de Pointes. Moxifloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic which has been associated with QT prolongation and, as a result, is recommended by the regulatory authorities as a positive control in thorough QT studies performed to evaluate the potential of new chemical entities to induce QT prolongation in humans. The sensitivity of the cynomolgus monkey as a quantitative preclinical predictor of the PK–QTc relationship is discussed. Methods: Cardiovascular monitoring was performed in the telemetered cynomolgus monkey for 22h following oral administration of Moxifloxacin (10, 30 and 90mg/kg) or placebo. QTc was derived using an individual animal correction factor (ICAF): RR-I=QT-I−(RR-550)⁎(IACF). A PKPD analysis was performed to quantify the increase in placebo-adjusted QTc elicited by administration of Moxifloxacin. In addition, the rate of onset of hERG channel blockade of Moxifloxacin was compared to Dofetilide by whole cell patch clamp technique in HEK-293 cells stably expressing the hERG channels. Results: Moxifloxacin induced a dose dependent increase in QTc. A maximum increase of 28ms was observed following administration of 90mg/kg Moxifloxacin. The corresponding maximum free systemic exposure was 18μM. Interrogation of the PK–QTc relationship indicated a direct relationship between the systemic exposure of Moxifloxacin and increased QTc. A linear PKPD model was found to describe this relationship whereby a 1.5ms increase in QTc was observed for every 1μM increase in free systemic exposure. Discussion: The exposure dependent increases in QTc observed following oral administration of Moxifloxacin to the cynomolgus monkey are in close agreement with those previously reported in human subjects. A direct effect linear relationship was found to be conserved in both species. As a result of the quantitative agreement in both species, the utility of the telemetered cynomolgus monkey as a preclinical predictor of QTc prolongation is exemplified. Furthermore, the rate of onset of hERG channel blockade observed in patch clamp offers a mechanistic insight into the relative rates of channel blockade observed in vivo with both Moxifloxacin and Dofetilide. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Purpose: The component modules in the standard BEAMnrc distribution may appear to be insufficient to model micro-multileaf collimators that have trifaceted leaf ends and complex leaf profiles. This note indicates, however, that accurate Monte Carlo simulations of radiotherapy beams defined by a complex collimation device can be completed using BEAMnrc’s standard VARMLC component module. Methods: That this simple collimator model can produce spatially and dosimetrically accurate microcollimated fields is illustrated using comparisons with ion chamber and film measurements of the dose deposited by square and irregular fields incident on planar, homogeneous water phantoms. Results: Monte Carlo dose calculations for on-axis and off-axis fields are shown to produce good agreement with experimental values, even on close examination of the penumbrae. Conclusions: The use of a VARMLC model of the micro-multileaf collimator, along with a commissioned model of the associated linear accelerator, is therefore recommended as an alternative to the development or use of in-house or third-party component modules for simulating stereotactic radiotherapy and radiosurgery treatments. Simulation parameters for the VARMLC model are provided which should allow other researchers to adapt and use this model to study clinical stereotactic radiotherapy treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fauna lists from nature reserves, game reserves and national parks are commonly used to depict modern fauna communities in synecological studies for the reconstruction of palaeocommunities and palaeoenvironments. This relies on the assumption that the modern fauna lists are truly representative samples of the communities they constitute. This study seeks to identify limitations in the use of such lists and to explore ways to mitigate or address some of the associated problems. We use modern fauna communities from national parks and game reserves in Asia. Potential limitations identified in the use of the modern fauna lists include under-representation of particular taxonomic groups; taxonomically unrepresentative lists; and unrepresentative habitat descriptions for the communities. In this study, the potential for under-representation of particular taxonomic groups is addressed by restricting the analysis to large-bodied fauna; fauna lists are subjected to taxonomic distinctness analysis to distinguish lists which are taxonomically representative from those which are not; and habitat descriptions are not accepted a priori but instead fauna lists are subjected to cluster and principle components analysis in order to identify the most parsimonious habitat groupings on the basis of the fauna. The minimum number of species required in the characterization of modern communities to confidently differentiate between the habitat types they utilize is also quantified. A synecological analysis for the Gongwangling palaeocommunity, Lantian, China is presented on the basis of data from protected natural areas whose limitations have been addressed. This analysis suggests a reconstruction of closed habitat for Gongwangling. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The advent of CT scanners with larger bore sizes have offered the potential for radiotherapy departments to undertake the majority or all treatment planning simulation via CT. Wide-bore scanners can present some unique issues when being commissioned for clinical use. During the process of converting a radiotherapy department to full CT simulation, several issues regarding images produced by a wide-bore scanner were identified. These were investigated by using electron density and image resolution phantoms. It was found that the reconstruction algorithm used by the scanner of interest for extended field of view (FOV) imaging, combined with the extended X-ray source-to-detector distance, influenced the resolution and quality of images. The reconstruction technique influenced the relationship between electron density and CT number with distance from the scanner axis, leading to image artefacts. A variation of 400 CT units is seen for cortical bone across the scanner FOV, with smaller variations for water and breast tissue. It is anticipated that this variation will impact on tissue delineation, and subsequent dose calculation would become questionable should beams pass through large areas of artefact. Image resolutions of 0.5 and 0.3 line-pairs per millimetre (lp/mm) were achievable in the primary and extended FOV regions respectively. Several aspects of image production with a wide-bore scanner that can influence imaging for radiotherapy treatment planning have been highlighted. Departments should be mindful of these issues when using a GE Lightspeed wide-bore scanner and should consider how scanner settings should be optimised for the use of images in treatment planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Induction of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A2, CYP2B6, and CYP3A4 by 22 prototypical inducers was evaluated in the Fa2N-4 immortalized human hepatic cell line. To facilitate this a duplex one-step quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay for CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 and a substrate cassette allowing simultaneous monitoring of CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4 activity were developed. CYP1A2 messenger RNA (mRNA) and activity were induced by the prototypical aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligand β-naphthoflavone (Emax = 217- and 11-fold, respectively, and EC50 = 8 µM). CYP3A4 mRNA and activity were induced by the prototypical pregnane X receptor (PXR) ligands, rifampicin (Emax = 36- and 6-fold, respectively, and EC50 = 4 µM) and phenobarbital (Emax = 12- and 4-fold, respectively, and EC50 = 205 µM). No induction of CYP2B6 was detected with several prototypical constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) ligands. A large mRNA-activity Emax ratio was observed for some time-dependent inhibitors of CYP3A4, whereas EC50 determinations appeared to be independent of the endpoint. In conclusion, Fa2N-4 cells are a good surrogate for primary human hepatocytes for assessing AhR and PXR-mediated CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 induction, respectively, but not for CAR-mediated CYP2B6 induction. The sensitive and selective methodologies presented in this paper afford maximal data generation and enhanced throughput capability and are readily transferable to primary human hepatocytes or alternate cellular systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

These studies investigated feeding responses to indirect activation of parabrachial cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Arachidonoyl serotonin (AA5HT), an inhibitor of the endocannabinoid degradative enzyme, fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), was infused into the parabrachial nucleus of male Sprague-Dawley rats, and intakes of high-fat/sucrose pellets and standard rodent chow were subsequently evaluated under various feeding schedules. FAAH blockade stimulated the intake of high-fat/sucrose pellets that were presented daily for 4 h during the light period, with compensatory decreases in the consumption of standard chow during the ensuing 20 h. These diet-selective changes were repeated on the next day, indicating a shift in feeding toward the more palatable diet that lasted for 48 h after a single infusion. The cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist, AM251, blocked the orexigenic actions of AA5HT, implicating CB1 receptors in mediating the feeding responses to FAAH inactivation. When the feeding schedule was reversed, AA5HT produced nominal increases in the consumption of standard chow for the 4-h access period, but substantial increases in the intake of high-fat/sucrose during the following 20-h interval. When presented with only high-fat/sucrose diet for 24 h, AA5HT increased 24-h food intake. In contrast, when given 24-h access only to standard chow, AA5HT failed to affect intake. Therefore, indirectly activating parabrachial CB1 receptors by blocking the degradation of native ligands selectively stimulates the intake of palatable food, with differential actions on total energy intake depending upon the feeding schedule. Our results support a role for parabrachial cannabinoid mechanisms in providing physiological regulation to neural substrates modulating feeding, energy balance, and behavioral responses for natural reward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endocannabinoid system is emerging as an integral component in central and peripheral regulation of feeding and energy balance. Our investigation analyzed behavioral roles for cannabinoid mechanisms of the pontine parabrachial nucleus (PBN) in modulating intake of presumably palatable foods containing fat and/or sugar. The PBN serves to gate neurotransmission associated with, but not limited to, the gustatory properties of food. Immunofluorescence and in vitro [35S]GTPγS autoradiography of rat tissue sections containing the PBN revealed the presence of cannabinoid receptors and their functional capability to couple to their G-proteins after incubation with the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). The selective cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) antagonist AM251 [N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-iodophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide] prevented the response, demonstrating CB1R mediation of 2-AG-induced coupling. Microinfusions of 2-AG into the PBN in behaving rats robustly stimulated feeding of pellets high in content of fat and sucrose (HFS), pure sucrose, and pure fat (Crisco), during the first 30 min after infusion. In contrast, 2-AG failed to increase consumption of standard chow, even when the feeding regimen was manipulated to match baseline intakes of HFS. Orexigenic responses to 2-AG were attenuated by AM251, again indicating CB1R mediation of 2-AG actions. Furthermore, responses were regionally specific, because 2-AG failed to alter intake when infused into sites ∼500 μm caudal to infusions that successfully stimulated feeding. Our data suggest that hedonically positive sensory properties of food enable endocannabinoids at PBN CB1Rs to initiate increases in eating, and, more generally, these pathways may serve a larger role in brain functions controlling behavioral responses for natural reward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. The principal objective in this study is to examine the effects of African-American descriptive representation on African-American voter turnout levels. As it stands, the extant literature on minority electoral empowerment has produced conflicting reports. Methods. Unlike previous investigations, this study employs official voter turnout data from the States of Louisiana and South Carolina to test the theoretical assertion that black descriptive representation has a politicizing effect on the black potential electorate. The voting records of the 2004 general elections are examined using ordinary least squares regression. Results. The findings show that descriptive representation does matter, that is, there is a positive association between African-American officeholders and African-American turnout levels. Moreover, this study demonstrates that African-American turnout levels are linked to changes in African-American descriptive representation across time. Conclusions. The benefits of African-American descriptive representation extend beyond the realm of public policy and can be found in the electoral process where the presence of African-American officeholders positively affects the politicalization of the black potential electorate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale Acute pharmacological studies implicate µ-opioid receptors (MORs) in the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) of the brainstem in modulating eating. The long-term effects of preventing the cellular function of parabrachial MORs on food consumption remain to be elucidated. Objectives To determine whether (1) chronic inhibition of MOR-mediated G-protein coupling in the PBN of rats would persistently reduce eating and (2) food properties dictate the effects of MOR blockade. Materials and methods We microinfused the irreversible MOR antagonist, β-funaltrexamine (β-FNA) into the lateral PBN and measured the intake of standard and calorically dense palatable chow for 1 week. First, rats were given standard chow for 20 h daily and a calorically dense palatable chow for 4 h during the day. We infused the agonist, [D-Ala², N-Me-Phe4, Glycinol5]-Enkephalin (DAMGO), 1 week after β-FNA to probe the acute effects of exogenous stimulation of MORs on palatable food intake. [35S]GTPγS autoradiography quantified regional loss of MOR cellular function. Next, we measured the actions of β-FNA on food intake in rats given only standard or palatable chow for 1 week. Results One infusion of β-FNA persistently decreased consumption of standard but not palatable chow, regardless of feeding regimen. β-FNA also blocked DAMGO-stimulated palatable chow intake, prevented DAMGO-stimulated G-protein coupling in the central and external lateral subnuclei of the PBN, and decreased coupling in the medial PBN. β-FNA did not affect κ-opioid receptors. Conclusions MORs in the lateral PBN serve a physiological role in stimulating consumption of standard food. Properties of the diet, such as high palatability or caloric density, may override the influence of inhibiting MOR function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Botulinum toxin type A is a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum which causes a flaccid muscle paralysis. It has been used extensively in the field of dermatology for the treatment of dynamic rhytides and in the treatment of hyperhidrosis. Botulinum toxin has an excellent safety profile and few side effects when used for these purposes. Recently, botulinum toxin has also been used experimentally in a number of other dermatologic conditions with good results. These conditions include: persistent facial flushing, gustatory sweating and epiphora, anal fissures, familial benign pemphigus (Hailey-Hailey disease), dyshidrotic eczema, and following surgical wound closures. While randomized, controlled prospective trials are still needed to further understand the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin in these conditions, anecdotal and case report data suggest that botulinum toxin is both safe and efficacious in these and many other procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathematical models exist to describe the pharmacokinetic changes caused by time-dependent inhibition (TDI) and these have been reported to predict accurately for several marketed drugs. However, their robustness using in-depth, carefully controlled pre-clinical studies has yet to be established. In the current study, the isolated perfused rat liver was employed to investigate the effects of TDI under carefully controlled conditions. A five-compartmental model was used to describe the observed data and bring context to in vitro TDI data ( k inact and K I ). Co-administration of midazolam with troleandomycin, mifepristone, erythromycin and the discovery compound, AZ-X, increased midazolam area under the curve (AUC) 3.2-, 2.5-, 1.6- and 1.0-fold, respectively, compared with AUC increases of 1.8-, 1.4-, 1.2- and 1.1-fold predicted by the model. These experimental findings, whilst modest in overall effect, support the use of this model in the rat and it is proposed that projections can be made for the likely clinical impact of novel time-dependent inhibitors in man based on predicted human pharmacokinetics and TDI potency determined in vitro . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This report summarizes the background and specific objectives for a symposium on the neurobiology of nonhomeostatic eating and drug abuse that was held at the 2004 Annual Meeting of the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior (SSIB). The symposium was the first of a series funded by a conference grant from four institutes of the National Institutes of Health. The encompassing goal of the series is to analyze the roles for the biological mechanisms of ingestion in obesity, eating disorders and other theoretically related areas including addiction, depression and schizophrenia. The symptoms and treatments of these diverse pathologies routinely involve aberrations in the mechanisms regulating eating and body weight. The presentations and discussion from this symposium (1) identified changes in neurotransmitter dynamics and gene expression in brain “reward circuits” accompanying learning of behaviors to obtain palatable foods or drugs of abuse; (2) analyzed behavioral findings in animals and humans, and neuroimaging data in humans, supporting treatment with GABAB agonists to reduce craving for drugs of abuse and possibly for highly rewarding foods; and (3) used neuroimaging data in humans to establish novel serotonergic targets for normalizing reward processes and impulse control in anorexia nervosa and bulimia. Overall, the symposium clearly revealed our rapidly broadening understanding of the alterations in the brain at the molecular, cellular and systems levels that are associated with craving and nonhomeostatic consumption of food and drugs of abuse. This knowledge gained largely in animal models translates to novel and better strategies for treating human patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

AIMS:1. To assess the prevalence of visual impairment in those patients who sustain proximal hip fracture after a simple fall. 2. To test the validity of a simple screening test to identify patients with visual impairment. METHODS:Patients on the orthopaedic rehabilitation ward recuperating from proximal hip fracture were recruited. The nurse screener and examining Ophthalmologist independently assessed the patients'distance visual acuity and visual field to confrontation. In addition, the nurse screener assessed for the presence of cataract in the red reflex and the examining Ophthalmologist performed a dilated slit-lamp examination. On completion of the examination, the Ophthalmologist documented the cause(s) of any visual impairment found. RESULTS:A total of 89 patients were assessed. In all, 29 patients (33%) could be classified as visually impaired using the United Staftes criteria and 52 patients (58%) had a distance visual acuity of 6/18 or worse in at least one eye. The test reliably identified those patients with visual impairment (sensitivity 94%(±5%), specificity 92%(±6%)), but was less reliable at identifying those patients with potentially remedial visual impairment (sensitivity 70%(±10%), specificity 92%(±6%)). CONCLUSION:The level of visual impairment in this group of patients is high and screening for visual impairment in the elderly with a history of falls is justified. We have demonstrated that a suitably trained member of the rehabilitation team can identify over 94%of those patients with impaired vision. We believe this simple test should now be incorporated into the assessment of all patients requiring rehabilitation after a proximal hip fracture.Eye (2005) 19, 55-59. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6701421 Published online 7 May 2004 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serotonergic 5-HT2C and 5-HT1B receptors mediate inhibitory controls of eating. Questions have arisen about potential behavioral and neurological toxicity of drugs that stimulate the 2C site. We evaluated eating and other motor responses in male Dutch-belted rabbits after administration of m-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP). Studies conducted in vitro and in vivo assessed the pharmacological specificity of the ingestive actions of this agent. mCPP (0.15–10 μmol/kg sc) reduced consumption of chow and 20% sucrose solution with equal potencies (ED500.6 μmol/kg). In radioligand binding to rabbit cortex, mCPP displayed 15-fold higher affinity for 5-HT2C than for 5-HT1B receptors. The serotonin antagonist mesulergine (7000-fold selective for 5-HT2C) reversed the hypophagic action of mCPP, but the 5-HT1B/1D antagonist GR127,935 did not. GR127,935 (0.5 μmol/kg) did prevent hypophagia produced by the highly selective 5-HT1B/1D agonist GR46,611. Observational methods demonstrated that mCPP decreased the frequency of eating chow but increased other motor activities. When rabbits consumed sucrose, videoanalysis revealed that mCPP reduced total time licking and the duration of individual bouts, but not bout frequency or the actual rate of consumption. mCPP increased locomotor and other activities, and greatly increased vacuous oromotor stereotypies and tongue protrusions. Nonetheless, rabbits licked accurately at the spout for sucrose. When sucrose was infused intraorally through a cheek catheter, mCPP actually increased the peak amplitude and overall magnitude of jaw movements. We conclude that mCPP stimulates 5-HT2C receptors to reduce food intake in rabbits. This hypophagia involves disruption of appetitive components of eating and is accompanied by adverse motor actions. This profile raises questions about the use of the 5-HT2C receptor as a target for novel therapeutic agents for obesity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Neurons that synthesize the morphine modulatory peptide neuropeptide FF (NPFF; Phe-Leu-PheGln-Pro-Gln-Arg-Phe-NH[sub 2]) densely innervate the parabrachial nucleus (PBN), an area implicated in regulating food intake. We analyzed opioid-related actions of NPFF in feeding in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Unilateral infusion of 2 nmol/0.5 µl of the µ-opioid receptor agonist [D-Ala²,NMe-Phe[sup 4],glycinol[sup 5]]enkephalin (DAMGO) into the lateral PBN increased 4-h food intake from 0.7 ± 0.1 to 3.3 ± 0.3 g. NPFF (1.25-5.0 nmol) prevented this hyperphagic µ-opioidergic action. In rats fed after 4-h deprivation (baseline = 12.3 ± 0.3 g/2 h), 5 nmol of NPFF did not alter and larger doses (10 and 20 nmol) actually increased food intake (+36, 54%). Twenty nanomoles also elevated intake of freely feeding rats (from 0.7 ± 0.1 to 5.1 ± 1.0 g/4 h). The opioid receptor blocker naloxone (10 nmol) antagonized this increase. These data reveal both pro- and anti-opioid actions of NPFF in the PBN to modulate feeding. The mechanisms for the opposite actions of low and high concentrations of this neuropeptide in parabrachial regulation of food intake remain to be determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systemic administration of the serotonin (5-HT) releaser/reuptake inhibitor, d-fenfluramine decreases consumption of food in mammals. This hypophagic action involves loci at several levels of the neuraxis. Indirect evidence implicates the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) of the pons as one of these regions. Consistent with this hypothesis, unilateral infusion of d-fenfluramine (200, 280, and 400 nmol/0.5 μl) directly into the lateral PBN (LPBN) of male rats reduced food intake by 33%, 56%, and 66% from baseline (7.3±0.7 g) during a 30-min test with chow. Infusions lateral, medial, and dorsal to the PBN were ineffective. Stimulating 5-HT1B receptors in the PBN also reduces feeding. Administration of the selective 5-HT1B agonist CP-93,129 (3-(1,2,5,6-tetrahydropyrid-4-yl)pyrrolo[3,2-b]pyrid-5-one) (0, 0.625, 2.5, and 10 nmol/0.5 μl) into the PBN reduced food intake by 25–79%. The selective 5-HT1B antagonist SB-216641 (N-[3-[3-(dimethylamino(ethoxy]-4-methoxyphenyl]-2′-methyl-4′-(5-methyl-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)-[1,1′-biphenyl]-4-carboxamide) (2.5 nmol) completely blocked the hypophagic action of the approximate ED50 doses of CP-93,129 (2.5 nmol) and d-fenfluramine (280 nmol). These data strongly suggest that directly or indirectly activating 5-HT1B receptors in the LPBN inhibits feeding and implicates this pontine region in the serotonergic regulation of eating and satiation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Compares the voting behavior of black and white legislators in the United States Congress. Concern for issues affecting the African-American community; Theory of race and African-American policy representation; Characteristics of public policy.

Theories concerning the impact of race and class have underemphasized the importance of the joint effects of these two explanatory variables. This article offers an explicitly interactive model based on the concept of "ethclass." Focusing on the black middle class as a prime example of an ethclass, the authors find that upper status blacks are somewhat more conservative than their tower status race peers (with regard to attitudes toward social welfare spending) but are significantly more liberal than their white class peers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research a measure of black interest is constructed to determine whether southern congressmen are responding to the needs of black constituents. The measure focuses on social welfare legislation which would eventually improve the living conditions of blacks. The findings reveal that party, and to a lesser extent the urban-racial composition of the district, heavily affect the voting decisions of southern congressmen. The major conclusion drawn is that distinct partisan differences have emerged in the South on civil rights and class-based socioeconomic issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article uses established measures of party difference and party cohesion to analyze the effects of emerging two-party competition in contested roll call votes in the South Carolina House of Representatives, 1977-1987. The analysis also treats legislative voting in the state with respect to the party affiliation of governors. The results reveal little convincing evidence of party as a major reference source for legislative roll call behavior in South Carolina. Even though there are some examples of stronger party-based voting, they appear to occur in a random fashion rather than on the basis of a major, organized attempt by legislators to vote along party lines. The findings suggest that further research is needed to explore the cues for legislative party voting in South Carolina and to identify influences with which to compare state legislative voting experiences, particularly in the other southern states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the anterior and posterior filter valves. Two basic types of mucous secreting epithelia are found associated with the structures. The first type, here called the pitted type, is found on the roof of the pharynx immediately above the posterior filter valve in two bands lying over the filter slit between the valves. The second type referred to as the ridged type is found on the underside of the anterior filter value and forms an integral part of the valve. The pitted type epithelium consists basically of clusters of columnar secretory cells arranged so that their free ends converge to form a secretory pit.

Focuses on the high temperature resistance of a high nitrogen and low nickel austenitic stainless steel. Chemical composition of the steel; Room temperature mechanical properties; Temperature effect on the tensile properties; Temperature dependence of the yield strength of the steel; Evaluation of the creep resistance.

Reviewed: Pearl Buck: A Woman in Conflict. Stirling, Nora.

Reviewed: The Life and Art of Elinor Wylie. Farr, Judith.

The stripe-faced dunnart (Sminthopsis macroura) is one of the most widespread dasyurids in Australia, occurring mostly in semiarid and arid habitats. It is not known to inhabit coastal regions of southern Australia, and no records have previously been recorded from latitudes greater than 28.5°S in Western Australia. Following the capture of an individual south of the known species range provisionally identified based on external morphology as S. macroura , we used DNA and craniodental morphology to corroborate the specimen's identification, providing a record of the species at Eucla, Western Australia. This represents a large range extension for S. macroura of 630 km from the nearest confirmed records of the species in Western Australia and South Australia. A suspected stripe-faced dunnart (Sminthopsis macroura) was captured at a coastal dune site near Eucla, Western Australia. The identity of the specimen was corroborated through DNA sequencing and morphological examination. This represents a range extension into novel habitat for the species in southern Western Australia. Photograph by Joshua Keen, Biota Environmental Sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pliocene fossil record of Australia has revealed the oldest known occurrences of modern peramelemorphian (bandicoot and bilbies) genera such asPerameles, cf.Peroryctes, andChaeropus. Recent phylogenetic analyses based on morphology have questioned the previously accepted understanding about generic relationships of some of these Pliocene taxa. These doubts limit our ability to develop independent divergence models based on molecular data because they depend on fossil records in order to calibrate minimum rates of change. Hence, there is a need to critically review the Pliocene fossil record. To this end, we have examined Pliocene specimens of peramelemorphians in museum collections across Australia and performed a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis based on dental and cranial morphology to review and accordingly revise subfamilial taxonomy. As part of this revision, we describe here two new species, one from the Chinchilla Local Fauna (LF) in Queensland (Perameles wilkinsonorum, sp. nov.) and one from both the Big Sink LF in the Wellington Caves area and the Bow LF in New South Wales (Silvicultor karae, gen. et sp. nov.). We reassign the two ‘Peroryctes’ species from Hamilton LF, Victoria, to a new genus (Silvicultor). We summarize the distribution of peramelemorphians during the Pliocene and show how climate change appears to have shaped their subsequent Quaternary distribution. SUPPLEMENTAL DATA—Supplemental materials are available for this article for free atwww.tandfonline.com/UJVP Citation for this article: Travouillon, K. J., J. Louys, G. J. Price, M. Archer, S. J. Hand, and J. Muirhead. 2017. A review of the Pliocene bandicoots of Australia, and descriptions of new genus and species. Journal of Vertebrate Paleontology. DOI: 10.1080/02724634.2017.1360894. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The atmosphere is vastly underexplored as a habitable ecosystem for microbial organisms. In this study, we investigated 795 time-resolved metagenomes from tropical air, generating 2.27 terabases of data. Despite only 9 to 17% of the generated sequence data currently being assignable to taxa, the air harbored a microbial diversity that rivals the complexity of other planetary ecosystems. The airborne microbial organisms followed a clear diel cycle, possibly driven by environmental factors. Interday taxonomic diversity exceeded day-to-day and month-to-month variation. Environmental time series revealed the existence of a large core of microbial taxa that remained invariable over 13 mo, thereby underlining the long-term robustness of the airborne community structure. Unlike terrestrial or aquatic environments, where prokaryotes are prevalent, the tropical airborne biomass was dominated by DNA from eukaryotic phyla. Specific fungal and bacterial species were strongly correlated with temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration, making them suitable biomarkers for studying the bioaerosol dynamics of the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]