Development of genetic SSR markers in Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei and application to isolates from Australia

The barley powdery mildew pathogen, Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei (Bgh), exists in numerous haplotypes and displays significant differences in fungicide sensitivity. It causes considerable yield losses throughout the world. Microsatellite SSRs are useful tools to study the population level and biogeographic aspects of intraspecific diversity, but so far none have been defined for Bgh. Here, eight polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified and characterized. Primer pairs amplifying the loci were then applied to 111 isolates of Bgh from Australia. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 4 to 13, and Nei's genetic diversity ranged from 0·25 to 0·76. The microsatellite primers detected several clones among the isolates and defined 97 unique haplotypes. There was little evidence for regional genotypic subdivision, suggesting that gene flow may not be restricted among geographic regions. All data was consistent with high levels of genetic diversity, potentially resulting from random mating and spread within each region.     

The political situation facing the United States Forest Service

Congressional hearings pertaining to national forest management, timber sales, the National Forest Management Act (NFMA), and the Resources Planning Act (RPA) were censused and subjected to content analysis. Trends in interest group attitudes toward the Forest Service, as revealed by their formal position statements to Congress, were identified for the period 1984 to 1993. The resulting quantitative data were converted into percent pro and con values and plotted over time. Industry support has waned, and although positive responses from environmental groups have increased, they have not been enough to offset the industry decline. Opinions toward management issues have shown the greatest shift, while attitudes regarding timber sales and NFMA/RPA have remained relatively uniform throughout the time period. This analysis suggests that the United States Forest Service has lost an element of leverage in its dealings with Congress. As its programs have become broader, its support from interest groups has weakened. Research Assistant Professor and Department Head.     

Re: Use of polymerase chain reaction for the differentiation of Group A bovine rotavirus G6, G8, and G10 genotypes in the North Island of New Zealand

Extract

In the paper by L Howe, H Sugiarto and RA Squires published in the New Zealand Veterinary Journal 56, 218–221, 2008, entitled, “Use of polymerase chain reaction for the differentiation of Group A bovine rotavirus G6, G8, and G10 genotypes in the North Island of New Zealand”, the authors concluded that “Currently, the rotavirus vaccine available in New Zealand contains only the G6 strain, and may not provide optimal protection for animals infected with G10 rotavirus. … This information may be of assistance in the development and optimisation of vaccines, and enhancement of effective control strategies.”     

Addressing canine and feline aggression in the veterinary clinic.

Handling aggressive dogs and cats in the veterinary clinic can be frustrating, time consuming, and injurious for both employee and animal. This article discusses the etiology of the aggressive dog and cat patient and how best to approach these cases. A variety of handling techniques, safety products, and drug therapy are reviewed.