Génomique 2000, aspects culturels.

As a historical consequence of molecular biology, genomics provides a complete theory of information in the field of biology. Genomics through biotechnologies offers also for the first time in history the possibility to create a new living world. Genomics can be seen as a component of actual culture that is in close connection with the economic strategies with strong political implications especially for health care and environment. This article analyses the historical determinants of genomics culture and questions the sense of the interpretations given to life by genomists. It also underlines their responsibility in elaborating this new kind of knowledge.     

Settlement-Subsistence Variability In The Glenwood Locality,Southwestern Iowa

Abstract

Central Plains tradition settlement distribution in Southwest Iowa is poorly understood. Patterns of both nucleated and dispersed forms seem to be represented. The known distribution in the Glenwood locality is examined and an algorithm presented that could explain the existing variability. Initial locality occupants relied heavily on hunting and gathering with minimal horticulture during the Neoatlantic climatic episode. Isolated homesteads were an efficacious adaption. During the dryer Pacific climatic episode attendant reduction of natural resources forced intensified horticulture which eventuated a more nucleated settlement pattern.     

Bovine thelaziasis in Iowa

The prevalence of developing Thelazia nematodes in face flies (Musca autumnalis) was studied for 7 yr at a beef farm in central Iowa. Juvenile nematodes were not found among flies in reproductive diapause in autumn, nor among nulliparous, overwintered flies in spring, but only among actively reproducing insects. Thus Thelazia probably do not overwinter in face flies. A mean prevalence of 2.0% infected was recorded among flies in 7 fly breeding seasons. No heterogeneity in Thelazia prevalence was detected within fly breeding seasons. The frequency distribution of Thelazia among face flies by year of occurrence was homogeneous, with a mean of 2.75 larval nematodes per infected fly. Thelazia gulosa and T. skrjabini were recovered in necropsy from the eyes of bovines from central Iowa. Prevalence among fat cattle 18-27 mo old was 15%; among cows 3-15 yr old, prevalence was only 3%. Thelazia skrjabini was found in 29 eyes and T. gulosa in 4 eyes. Infections were randomly distributed among the eyes of subject cattle. The mean worm burden was 2.3 T. skrjabini and 12 T. gulosa per infected eye. Thelaziasis is clearly enzootic in Iowa.