bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sources of variation in dietary requirements in an obligate nutritional symbiosis
Authors: Vogel Kevin J. , Moran Nancy A.
Published: July 2010

The nutritional symbiosis between aphids and their obligate symbiont,
Buchnera aphidicola
, is often characterized as a highly functional partnership in which the symbiont provides the host with essential nutrients. Despite this, some aphid lineages exhibit dietary requirements for nutrients typically synthesized by
Buchnera
, suggesting that some aspect of the symbiosis is disrupted. To examine this phenomenon in the pea aphid,
Acyrthosiphon pisum
, populations were assayed using defined artificial diet to determine dietary requirements for essential amino acids (EAAs). Six clones exhibiting dependence on EAAs in their diet were investigated further. In one aphid clone, a mutation in a
Buchnera
amino acid biosynthesis gene could account for the clone's requirement for dietary arginine. Analysis of aphid F
1
hybrids allowed separation of effects of the host and symbiont genomes, and revealed that both affect the requirement for dietary EAAs in the clones tested. Amino acid requirements were minimally affected by secondary symbiont infection. Our results indicate that variation among pea aphids in dependence on dietary amino acids can result from
Buchnera
mutation as well as variation in the host genotype.
Functional Analysis of the Group 4 Late Embryogenesis Abundant Proteins Reveals Their Relevance in the Adaptive Response during Water Deficit in Arabidopsis
Authors: Olvera-Carrillo Yadira , Campos Francisco , Reyes José Luis , Garciarrubio Alejandro , Covarrubias Alejandra A.
Published: July 2010

Late-Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins accumulate to high levels during the last stages of seed development, when desiccation tolerance is acquired, and in vegetative and reproductive tissues under water deficit, leading to the hypothesis that these proteins play a role in the adaptation of plants to this stress condition. In this work, we obtained the accumulation patterns of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) group 4 LEA proteins during different developmental stages and plant organs in response to water deficit. We demonstrate that overexpression of a representative member of this group of proteins confers tolerance to severe drought in Arabidopsis plants. Moreover, we show that deficiency of LEA proteins in this group leads to susceptible phenotypes upon water limitation, during germination, or in mature plants after recovery from severe dehydration. Upon recovery from this stress condition, mutant plants showed a reduced number of floral and axillary buds when compared with wild-type plants. The lack of these proteins also correlates with a reduced seed production under optimal irrigation, supporting a role in fruit and/or seed development. A bioinformatic analysis of group 4 LEA proteins from many plant genera showed that there are two subgroups, originated through ancient gene duplication and a subsequent functional specialization. This study represents, to our knowledge, the first genetic evidence showing that one of the LEA protein groups is directly involved in the adaptive response of higher plants to water deficit, and it provides data indicating that the function of these proteins is not redundant to that of the other LEA proteins.
Physiological and Genetic Characterization of End-of-Day Far-Red Light Response in Maize Seedlings
Authors: Dubois Patrice G. , Olsefski Gregory T. , Flint-Garcia Sherry , Setter Tim L. , Hoekenga Owen A. , Brutnell Thomas P.
Published: July 2010

Developmental responses associated with end-of-day far-red light (EOD-FR) signaling were investigated in maize (Zea mays subspecies mays) seedlings. A survey of genetically diverse inbreds of temperate and tropical/semitropical origins, together with teosinte (Zea mays subspecies parviglumis) and a modern hybrid, revealed distinct elongation responses. A mesocotyl elongation response to the EOD-FR treatment was largely absent in the tropical/semitropical lines, but both hybrid and temperate inbred responses were of the same magnitude as in teosinte, suggesting that EOD-FR-mediated mesocotyl responses were not lost during the domestication or breeding process. The genetic architecture underlying seedling responses to EOD-FR was investigated using the intermated B73 × Mo17 mapping population. Among the different quantitative trait loci identified, two were consistently detected for elongation and responsiveness under EOD-FR, but none were associated with known light signaling loci. The central role of phytochromes in mediating EOD-FR responses was shown using a phytochromeB1 phytochromeB2 (phyB1 phyB2) mutant series. Unlike the coleoptile and first leaf sheath, EOD-FR-mediated elongation of the mesocotyl appears predominantly controlled by gibberellin. EOD-FR also reduced abscisic acid (ABA) levels in the mesocotyl for both the wild type and phyB1 phyB2 double mutants, suggesting a FR-mediated but PHYB-independent control of ABA accumulation. EOD-FR elongation responses were attenuated in both the wild type and phyB1 phyB2 double mutants when a chilling stress was applied during the dark period, concomitant with an increase in ABA levels. We present a model for the EOD-FR response that integrates light and hormonal control of seedling elongation.
The Tomato odorless-2 Mutant Is Defective in Trichome-Based Production of Diverse Specialized Metabolites and Broad-Spectrum Resistance to Insect Herbivores
Authors: Kang Jin-Ho , Liu Guanghui , Shi Feng , Jones A. Daniel , Beaudry Randolph M. , Howe Gregg A.
Published: July 2010

Glandular secreting trichomes of cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) produce a wide array of volatile and nonvolatile specialized metabolites. Many of these compounds contribute to the characteristic aroma of tomato foliage and constitute a key part of the language by which plants communicate with other organisms in natural environments. Here, we describe a novel recessive mutation called odorless-2 (od-2) that was identified on the basis of an altered leaf-aroma phenotype. od-2 plants exhibit pleiotrophic phenotypes, including alterations in the morphology, density, and chemical composition of glandular trichomes. Type VI glandular trichomes isolated from od-2 leaves accumulate only trace levels of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and flavonoids. Other foliar defensive compounds, including acyl sugars, glycoalkaloids, and jasmonate-regulated proteinase inhibitors, are produced in od-2 leaves. Growth of od-2 plants under natural field conditions showed that the mutant is highly susceptible to attack by an indigenous flea beetle, Epitrix cucumeris, and the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata. The increased susceptibility of od-2 plants to Colorado potato beetle larvae and to the solanaceous specialist Manduca sexta was verified in no-choice bioassays. These findings indicate that Od-2 is essential for the synthesis of diverse trichome-borne compounds and further suggest that these compounds influence host plant selection and herbivore community composition under natural conditions.
Initial, habitual and compulsive alcohol use is characterized by a shift of cue processing from ventral to dorsal striatum
Authors: Vollstädt‐Klein Sabine , Wichert Svenja , Rabinstein Juri , Bühler Mira , Klein Oliver , Ende Gabriele , Hermann Derik , Mann Karl
Published: July 2010

Aims  During the development of drug addiction, initial hedonic effects decrease when substance use becomes habitual and ultimately compulsive. Animal research suggests that these changes are represented by a transition from prefrontal cortical control to subcortical striatal control and within the striatum from ventral to dorsal domains of the striatum, but only limited evidence exists in humans. In this study we address this hypothesis in the context of alcohol dependence.

Design, setting and participants  Non‐abstinent heavy social drinkers (n = 21, 5.0 ± 1.5 drinks/day, 13 of them were alcohol‐dependent according to DSM‐IV) and light social drinkers (n = 10, 0.4 ± 0.4 drinks/day) were examined.

Measurements  We used a cue‐reactivity functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) design during which pictures of alcoholic beverages and neutral control stimuli were presented.

Findings  In the dorsal striatum heavy drinkers showed significant higher activations compared to light drinkers, whereas light social drinkers showed higher cue‐induced fMRI activations in the ventral striatum and in prefrontal areas compared to heavy social drinkers [region of interest analyses, P < 0.05 false discovery rate (FDR)‐corrected]. Correspondingly, ventral striatal activation in heavy drinkers correlated negatively with obsessive‐compulsive craving, and furthermore we found a positive association between cue‐induced activation in the dorsal striatum and obsessive‐compulsive craving in all participants.

Conclusions  In line with our hypothesis we found higher cue‐induced activation of the ventral striatum in social compared to heavy drinkers, and higher dorsal striatal activation in heavy drinkers. Increased prefrontal activation may indicate that social drinkers activate cortical control when viewing alcohol cues, which may prevent the development of heavy drinking or alcohol dependence. Our results suggest differentiating treatment research depending on whether alcohol use is hedonic or compulsive.
Identification of virulence genes in the corn pathogenColletotrichum graminicolabyAgrobacterium tumefaciens‐mediated transformation
Authors: MÜNCH STEFFEN , LUDWIG NANCY , FLOSS DANIELA S. , SUGUI JANYCE A. , KOSZUCKA ANNA M. , VOLL LARS M. , SONNEWALD UWE , DEISING HOLGER B.
Published: July 2010

A previously developedAgrobacterium tumefaciens‐mediated transformation (ATMT) protocol for the plant pathogenic fungusColletotrichum graminicolaled to high rates of tandem integration of the whole Ti‐plasmid, and was therefore considered to be unsuitable for the identification of pathogenicity and virulence genes by insertional mutagenesis in this pathogen. We used a modified ATMT protocol with acetosyringone present only during the co‐cultivation ofC. graminicolaandA. tumefaciens. Analysis of 105 single‐spore isolates randomly chosen from a collection of approximately 2000 transformants, indicated that almost 70% of the transformants had single T‐DNA integrations. Of 500 independent transformants tested, 10 exhibited attenuated virulence in infection assays on whole plants. Microscopic analyses primarily revealed defects at different pre‐penetration stages of infection‐related morphogenesis. Three transformants were characterized in detail. The identification of the T‐DNA integration sites was performed by amplification of genomic DNA ends after endonuclease digestion and polynucleotide tailing. In one transformant, the T‐DNA had integrated into the 5′‐flank of a gene with similarity to allantoicase genes of other Ascomycota. In the second and third transformants, the T‐DNA had integrated into an open reading frame (ORF) and into the 5′‐flank of an ORF. In both cases, the ORFs have unknown function.
Relationship between serum IgG2 concentrations and antibody responses to pneumococcal polysaccharides in children with chronic chest symptoms
Authors: SMITH T F , BAIN R P , SCHIFFMAN G
Published: July 2010

We measured IgG-class antibodies to 12 pneumococcal antigens pre- and post-immunization with polyvalent pneumococcal vaccine in 31 children who had experienced chronic chest symptoms. The purpose of the study was to determine the relation of IgG subclasses, especially IgG2, to the subjects’ antibody responses to bacterial polysaccharide antigens, to see if measuring IgG subclasses would predict these responses. Twenty-nine children (90%) had low or low-normal levels of one or more IgG subclasses, including 20 out of 31 (65%) with low or low normal levels of IgG2. Children studied had a relatively poor increase in levels of antibody to 10 of the 12 pneumococcal vaccine antigens investigated. Both pre- and post-immunization antibody levels were related to pre-immune serum concentrations of lgG2. Pre-immunization antibody levels were strongly related to post-immunization levels; when post-immunization antibody levels were adjusted for pre-immunization levels by partial correlation, the correlation between anticapsular antibody level post-immunization and IgG2 was no longer significant. Thus, in children with chronic chest symptoms, levels of antibody measured at a random interval after natural exposure to these bacterial polysaccharide antigens are related to levels of IgG2 subclass, but antibody increases after vaccination appear to be affected more by other factors.
Immunoblotting human C4 bound to human erythrocytesin vivoandin vitro
Authors: GILES C M , ROBSON T
Published: July 2010

A study of C4 bound to human erythrocytes in vitro and in vivo has been made by immunoblotting with mouse monoclonal anti-C4c and anti-C4d and human polyclonal anti-C4d (Rodgers and Chido) following SDS-PAGE. Multi-banded patterns differentiated between C4A and C4B isotypes. Treatment of EC4b with trypsin eliminated immunoblotting but not agglutination reactions. Serum inactivation (factor I) of EC4b resulted in banding patterns similar to those obtained from patients EC4d. Treatment of EC4b membranes with NH2OH affected many of the bands, two were lost, one was markedly reduced and others had altered SDS-PAGE mobility. Interpretation of the bands has been made in terms of C4-aceeptor complexes and inactivation fragments of C4. A distinct difference in the banding of C4A and C4B isotypes has been detected.
Effects of C4 null alleles and homoduplications on quantitative expression of C4A and C4B
Authors: HAMMOND A , OLLIER W , WALPORT M J
Published: July 2010

The availability of MoAbs now allows the accurate quantification of the individual C4 isotypes, C4A and C4B. Using a sensitive two-site immunoradiometric technique to measure serum levels of C4A and C4B, we studied the relationship between genotype and phenotype and physiological factors affecting C4 expression in 129 fully genotyped healthy subjects. Our results confirm that there is extensive phenotypic overlap between genotypic groups and it was not possible to determine the presence of single null alleles from total serum C4. Of the factors which may influence C4 expression, we found that age contributes a very small influence but that gender has no effect and there was no evidence for the presence of feedback of null alleles on the expression of remaining genes. Potential problems in quantifying C4 arising from the complex relationship between isotypic identity and serotypic recognition were highlighted by the finding of reversed antigenic expression of a C4B*5 molecule which was recognized as C4A by the anti-Rg: 1 monoclonal used in these studies. We also confirmed that the extended MHC haplotype associated with Felty's syndrome, HLA-B44, C4A*3. C4BQ*O, HLA-DR4, encodes an expressed, duplicated, C4A gene.
Altered expression of cell adhesion molecules in uninvolved gut in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: SCHUERMANN G M , ABER-BISHOP A E , FACER P , LEE J C , RAMPTON D S , DORÉ C J , POLAK J M
Published: July 2010

Adhesion of circulating cells to vascular endothelium occurs in the early phase orinfiammation, and is mediated by specific cell adhesion molecules. Many such adhesion molecules are increased in inflamed regions of ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) but there is limited knowledge of their expression in the uninvolved gut, adjacent to inflammation. We investigated immunohisto-chemically the expression of platelet endoihelial cell adhesion moleculc-1 (PECAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-l (ICAM-l)and lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1.) on resected specimens taken at a distance of 2-4 cm from the inflamed area and without histological signs of inflammation. Compared with normal gut. we found (i) a significant increase of PECAM-1-positive vessels in the mucosa of uninvolved UC (149.0 ± 24.1 vesscls/mm2 (mean ± s.d.); normal colon = 123.1 ± 21.6; P= 0.004); (ii)a significant decrease of ICAM-1-positive vessels in uninvolved CD (111.9 ± 22.6 vessels/mm2 normal ileum = 136.9 ± 27.6; P=0.04); and (iii) a moderate but statistically insignificant increase of LFA-1 -positive cells in the mucosa of uninvolved UC and Crohn's ileitis. This altered expression of cell adhesion molecules may contribute to the early lesion in inflammatory bowel disease and provide new therapeutic opportunities.
Co-Stimulation with anti-CD28 (Kolt-2) enhances DNA synthesis by defective T cells in common variable immunodeficiency
Authors: NORTH M E , AKBAR A N , BORTHWICK N , SAGAWA K , FUNAUCHI M , WEBSTER A D B , FARRANT J
Published: July 2010

In normal T cells, an ann-CD28 MoAb (Kolt-2) will synergize with the mitogenic stimuli Phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). anti-CD3 (OKT3) or a combination of anti-CD2 antibodies (OKT11 and GT2) in the induction of DNA synthesis. A subgroup of patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) show a defect in DNA synthesis by T cells stimulated in vitro with the above mitogens. We have now investigated whether anti-CD28 will correct the defect. This strategy partially restored DNA synthesis, providing evidence that the CD28 co-stimulatory pathway in CVID T cells is normal. Ligation of CT28 acts through co-stimulating IL-2 secretion. The natural ligand (B7) for CD28 on antigen-presenting cells from CVID patients is expressed normally. We conclude that the defect in CVID T cells lies in pathways that lead to transcription of the IL-2 gene other than that induced by ligation of CD2K with Kolt-2.
Active hepatitis C virus infection in bone marrow and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with mixed cryoglobulinaemia
Authors: GABRIELLI A , MANZIN A , CANDELA M , CANIGLIA M L , PAOLUCCI S , DANIELI M G , CLEMENTI M
Published: July 2010

The presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genomic sequences was checked in plasma, liver, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and bone marrow cells from 11 patients with mixed cryoglobulinaemia positive for anti-HCV antibodies, and from 11 patients with chronic HCV hepatitis without serological evidence of cryoglobulinaemia. HCV RNA sequences were demonstrated by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in seven plasma samples, in six PBMC samples, and in seven bone marrow cell samples from the 11 cryoglobulinaemia subjects; otherwise, viral specific nucleic acids were detected in 10 plasma samples, in one PBMC sample, and in two bone marrow cell samples from the 11 patients with chronic hepatitis. The HCV replicative intermediate was evidenced in four of the six PBMC and in five of the seven bone marrow aspirate HCV RNA-positive samples. Analysis of subpopulations isolated from bone marrow and peripheral blood samples showed HCV RNA sequences in mononuclear ceils belonging either to the CD2+ subset or to the CDI9+ subpopulation or to the adherent cells. Finally, we compared the nucleotide sequences of a large portion (-270 to -59) of the HCV 5′-untranslated region from five patients with mixed cryoglobulinaemia and from seven patients with chronic hepatitis without cryoglobulinaemia; the degree of heterogeneity, compared with the prototype HCV sequence, was similar in both groups. These findings from two groups of HCV infected patients indicate that transient or permanent active HCV infection of bone marrow and PBMC is frequent in anti-HCV-positive patients with mixed cryoglobulinaemia, and suggest that extra-hepatic infection may play a major role in influencing the pathophysiology of this infection as well as the viral persistence.
Adhesion molecules involved in hepoxilin A3-mediated neutrophil transepithelial migration
Authors: Hurley B P , Sin A , McCormick B A
Published: July 2010

A common feature underlying active states of inflammation is the migration of neutrophils (PMNs) from the circulation and across a number of tissue barriers in response to chemoattractant stimuli. Although our group has recently established a discreet role for the PMN chemoattractant, hepoxilin A3 (HXA3) in the process of PMN recruitment, very little is known regarding the interaction of HXA3 with PMNs. To characterize further the event of HXA3-induced PMN transepithelial migration, we sought to determine the adhesion molecules required for migration across different epithelial surfaces (T84 intestinal and A549 airway cells) relative to two well-studied PMN chemoattractants, formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4). Our findings reveal that the adhesion interaction profile of PMN transepithelial migration in response to HXA3 differs from the adhesion interaction profile exhibited by the structurally related eicosanoid LTB4. Furthermore, unique to PMN transepithelial migration induced by gradients of HXA3 was the critical dependency of all four major surface adhesion molecules examined (i.e. CD18, CD47, CD44 and CD55). Our results suggest that the particular chemoattractant gradient imposed, as well as the type of epithelial cell monolayer, each plays a role in determining the adhesion molecules involved in transepithelial migration. Given the complexities of these interactions, our findings are important to consider with respect to adhesion molecules that may be targeted for potential drug development.
Translational Mini-Review Series on Complement Factor H: Genetics and disease associations of human complement factor H
Authors: De Córdoba S Rodríguez , De Jorge E Goicoechea
Published: July 2010

OTHER ARTICLES PUBLISHED IN THIS TRANSLATIONAL MINI-REVIEW SERIES ON COMPLEMENT FACTOR H

Structural and functional correlations for factor H. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 151: doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007.03553.x

Therapies of renal diseases associated with complement factor H abnormalities: atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 151: doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007.03558.x

Renal diseases associated with complement factor H: novel insights from humans and animals. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 151: doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007.03574.x

Factor H is an abundant plasma glycoprotein that plays a critical role in the regulation of the complement system in plasma and in the protection of host cells and tissues from damage by complement activation. Several recent studies have described the association of genetic variations of the complement factor H gene (CFH) with atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS), age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN). This review summarizes our current knowledge of CFH genetics and examines the CFH genotype–phenotype correlations that are helping to understand the molecular basis underlying these renal and ocular pathologies.
Translational Mini-Review Series on Complement Factor H: Renal diseases associated with complement factor H: novel insights from humans and animals
Authors: Pickering M C , Cook H T
Published: July 2010

OTHER ARTICLES PUBLISHED IN THIS TRANSLATIONAL MINI-REVIEW SERIES ON COMPLEMENT FACTOR H

Genetics and disease associations of human complement factor H. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 151: doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007.03552.x

Structural and functional correlations for factor H. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 151: doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007.03553.x

Therapies of renal diseases associated with complement factor H abnormalities: atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 151: doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2007.03553.x

Factor H is the major regulatory protein of the alternative pathway of complement activation. Abnormalities in factor H have been associated with renal disease, namely glomerulonephritis with C3 deposition including membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) and the atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome (aHUS). Furthermore, a common factor H polymorphism has been identified as a risk factor for the development of age-related macular degeneration. These associations suggest that alternative pathway dysregulation is a common feature in the pathogenesis of these conditions. However, with respect to factor H-associated renal disease, it is now clear that distinct molecular defects in the protein underlie the pathogenesis of glomerulonephritis and HUS. In this paper we review the associations between human factor H dysfunction and renal disease and explore how observations in both spontaneous and engineered animal models of factor H dysfunction have contributed to our understanding of the pathogenesis of factor H-related renal disease.
Nitrifier denitrification can be a source of N2O from soil: a revised approach to the dual‐isotope labelling method
Authors: Kool D. M. , Wrage N. , Zechmeister‐Boltenstern S. , Pfeffer M. , Brus D. , Oenema O. , Van Groenigen J.‐W.
Published: July 2010

Nitrifier denitrification (i.e. nitrite reduction by ammonia oxidizers) is one of the biochemical pathways of nitrous oxide (N2O) production. It is increasingly suggested that this pathway may contribute substantially to N2O production in soil, the major source of this greenhouse gas. However, although monoculture studies recognize its potential, methodological drawbacks prohibit conclusive proof that nitrifier denitrification occurs in actual soils. Here we suggest and apply a new isotopic approach to identify its presence in soil. In incubation experiments with 12 soils, N2O production was studied using oxygen (O) and nitrogen (N) isotope tracing, accounting for O exchange. Microbial biomass C and N and phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) patterns were analysed to explain potential differences in N2O production pathways. We found that in at least five of the soils nitrifier denitrification must have contributed to N2O production. Moreover, it may even have been responsible for all NH4+‐derived N2O in most soils. In contrast, N2O as a by‐product of ammonia oxidation contributed very little to total production. Microbial biomass C and N and PLFA‐distinguished microbial community composition were not indicative of differences in N2O production pathways. Overall, we show that combined O and N isotope tracing may still provide a powerful tool to understand N2O production pathways, provided that O exchange is accounted for. We conclude that nitrifier denitrification can indeed occur in soils, and may in fact be responsible for the greater proportion of total nitrifier‐induced N2O production.
Stability of Lactobacillus reuteri in Different Types of Microcapsules
Authors: Muthukumarasamy Parthiban , Allan‐Wojtas Paula , Holley Richard A
Published: July 2010

This study was designed to find the most suitable method and wall material for microencapsulation of the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus reuteri to maintain cell viability during gastric challenge. Five L. reuteri strains were individually encapsulated using alginate, alginate plus starch, K‐carrageenan with locust bean gum, or xanthan with gellan by extrusion or phase separation (emulsion). The morphology of the microcapsules was studied using phase contrast and cryo‐scanning electron microscopy (cryo‐SEM). The resistance of these microcapsules and the viability of contained L. reuteri to simulated gastric juice were studied. The shape and size of the microcapsules produced varied with the preparation method and type of wall material. Extruded microcapsules were larger and more uniformly shaped. Survival of microencapsulated L. reuteri was significantly better than that of planktonic cells and varied with the strain, method of microencapsulation, and wall material used. In general, microencapsulation using alginate and alginate with starch by both extrusion and phase separation were found to provide bacteria significantly greater protection (P < 0.05) against simulated gastric juice.
Fecal Microbiota Changes with the Consumption of Follow‐up Formulas Containing Bifidobacterium spp. and/or Galactooligosaccharides by Rats and a Follow‐up Infant Formula Containing Bifidobacterium spp. by Human Infants
Authors: Pérez‐Conesa Darío , López Ginés , Ros Gaspar , Abellán Pedro , Hartemink Ralf
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT Seven groups of rats were fed during 1 mo using 1 infant formula containing Bifidobacterium bifidum and Bifidobacterium longum, 3 infant formulas containing 4‐galactosyllactose at 1.2%, 5.0%, and 10.0%, and 3 infant formulas containing both ingredients. During 3 periods, corresponding to day 8 to 10, 18 to 20, and 28 to 30, fecal samples were collected for total aerobes, total anaerobes, and bifidobacteria counts. Results showed that bifidobacteria represented an important proportion out of the anaerobe group in the 1st period. However, in the 2nd period bifidobacteria decreased significantly, and in the 3rd period bifidobacteria counts increased, especially in the group fed diet containing galactooligosaccharides 1.2%. In a 2nd study, 12 human infants were fed with the infant formula containing B. bifidum and B. longum, whereas the other 12 were fed using a control infant formula. Fecal samples were collected at the age of 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 12 mo for total anaerobes, bacteroides, bifidobacteria, clostridia counts, as well as for fecal pH determination. Infants fed infant formula containing bifidobacteria in samples corresponding to 7th and 9th mo of age had significantly (P< 0.05) higher bifidobacteria counts and a lower fecal pH than those fed control infant formula.
Browning Inhibition in Fresh‐cut‘Fuji’Apple Slices by Natural Antibrowning Agents
Authors: Rojas‐Graü Maria A. , Sobrino‐López Angel , Soledad Tapia Maria , Martín‐Belloso Olga
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT Response surface methodology was used to study the effect of antibrowning agents (4‐hexylresorci‐nol, glutathione, N‐acetylcysteine, and ascorbic acid) and storage time (14 d) on the color of minimally processed Fuji apples. The selected color parameters were L*,a*, b*, hue angle (h*), and color difference (ΔE*). Storage time had a significant effect on all the studied color parameters (P± 0.05). 4‐hexylresorcinol showed the most effective individual effect on keeping constant a*values (P± 0.0001). Besides, the interaction of N‐acetylcysteine/ glutathione was found to have a significant effect (P± 0.05) on maintaining a* values over time. On the other hand, individual treatment with N‐acetylcysteine in concentrations higher than 0.75% w/v may be used to preserve a*and h*.According to the F‐test, 4‐hexylresorcinol and N‐acetylcysteine (P± 0.05) displayed a significant individual effect on ΔE*, indicating that ΔE* decreased when increasing the concentration of these antibrowning agents. Nevertheless, color difference went down when 4‐hexylresorcinol concentration increased up to 0.5%, but higher concentrations of this agent led to an increase in ΔE* that indicates browning.
A randomized controlled trial of a community nurse‐supported hospital discharge programme in older patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Kwok Timothy , Lee Jenny , Woo Jean , Lee Diana TF , Griffith Sian
Published: July 2010

Aims and objectives. To evaluate the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of a community nurse‐supported hospital discharge programme in preventing hospital re‐admissions, improving functional status and handicap of older patients with chronic heart failure.

Design. Randomized controlled trial; 105 hospitalized patients aged 60 years or over with chronic heart failure and history of hospital admission(s) in previous year were randomly assigned into intervention group (n = 49) and control group (n = 56) for six months. Intervention group subjects received community nurse visits before discharge, within seven days of discharge, weekly for four weeks, then monthly. Community nurse liaised closely with a designated specialist in hospital and were accessible to subjects during normal working hours. Control and intervention group subjects were followed up in the same specialist medical clinics. Primary outcome was the rate of unplanned re‐admission at six months. Secondary outcomes were number of unplanned re‐admissions, six‐minute walking distance, London Handicap Scale and public health care and personal care costs.

Results. At sixth months, the re‐admission rates were not significantly different (46 vs. 57% in control subjects,p = 0·233, Chi‐square test). But the median number of re‐admissions tended to lower in the intervention group (0 vs. 1 in control group,p = 0·057, Mann Whitney test). Intervention group subjects had less handicap in independence (median change 0 vs. 0·5 in control subjects,p = 0·002, Mann Whitney test), but there was no difference in six‐minute walking distance. There was no significant group difference in median total public health care and personal care costs.

Conclusion. Community nurse‐supported post‐discharge programme was effective in preserving independence and was probably effective in reducing the number of unplanned re‐admissions. The cost benefits to public health care were not significant.

Relevance to clinical practice. Older chronic heart failure patients are likely to benefit from post‐discharge community nurse intervention programmes. More comprehensive health economic evaluation needs to be undertaken.
Not a simple fat‐soluble vitamin: changes in serum 25‐(OH)D levels are predicted by adiposity and adipocytokines in older adults
Authors: Ding C. , Parameswaran V. , Blizzard L. , Burgess J. , Jones G.
Published: July 2010

Abstract.  Ding C, Parameswaran V, Blizzard L, Burgess J, Jones G (Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tas.; Monash University, Melbourne, Vic.; Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tas., Australia). Not a simple fat soluble vitamin: changes in serum 25‐(OH)D levels are predicted by adiposity and adipocytokines in older adults. J Intern Med 2010; 268: 501–510.

Objective.  To determine the associations between body adiposity and change in serum 25‐(OH)D levels over 2.6 years, and if these associations are mediated by metabolic and inflammatory factors in older adults.

Methods.  This is a longitudinal study of 859 randomly selected subjects (mean 62 years, range 51–80, 49% women). Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25‐(OH)D] was assessed by radioimmunoassay at baseline and 2.6 years later. Baseline serum level of leptin was assessed by radioimmunoassay and interleukin (IL)‐6 by a chemiluminescent immunoassay in the first 183 subjects.

Results.  In multivariable analyses, body mass index, trunk fat percentage and waist‐to‐hip ratio were significant predictors of increased incident vitamin D deficiency [a 25‐(OH)D < 50 nmol L−1 at follow‐up when ≥50 nmol L−1 at baseline] and decreased recovery of vitamin D deficiency [a 25‐(OH)D ≥ 50 nmol L−1 at follow‐up when < 50 nmol L−1 at baseline]. Change in 25‐(OH)D levels per annum was also independently predicted by baseline leptin (β: −0.09/unit, 95% CI: −0.17, −0.03), IL‐6 (β: −0.68/quartile, 95% CI: −1.35, −0.02) and total cholesterol/high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio (β: −0.51, 95% CI: −0.88, −0.14). The associations between body adiposity measures and change in 25‐(OH)D completely disappeared after adjustment for leptin, diminished after adjustment for IL‐6, but remained unchanged after adjustment for total cholesterol/HDL ratio. All associations were independent of season and sun exposure.

Conclusions.  Body fat is not simply a passive reservoir for 25‐(OH)D. In addition to season and sun exposure, 25‐(OH)D levels appear to be determined by metabolic and, to a lesser extent, inflammatory factors, and these appear to mediate the effects of adiposity on change in 25‐(OH)D.
A structural equation model relating objective and subjective masticatory function and oral health‐related quality of life in patients with removable partial dentures
Authors: FUEKI K. , YOSHIDA E. , IGARASHI Y.
Published: July 2010

Summary  The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between objective masticatory function with respect to masticatory performance and food mixing ability, patients’ perception of chewing ability and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL). Partially dentate patients with removable partial dentures (n = 131, mean age 67·1 year) participated in the study. Four tests were performed to evaluate objective and subjective masticatory function and OHRQoL. Masticatory performance and food mixing ability were assessed using peanuts or a two‐coloured wax cube as test items. Patients’ perception of chewing ability was rated using a food intake questionnaire. OHRQoL was measured using the Japanese version of the oral health impact profile. A structural equation model was constructed based on hypothesis in which objective masticatory function would be related to OHRQoL via perceived chewing ability as a mediator. Structural equation modelling analysis found a statistically significant medium effect of perceived chewing ability on OHRQoL and statistically significant medium or small effects of masticatory performance on perceived chewing ability and OHRQoL (P < 0·05); however, the effect of food mixing ability on perceived chewing ability or OHRQoL was not statistically significant (P > 0·05). A fit index indicated that the model fitted well to the data (Goodness‐of‐fit index = 0·99). These results suggest that perceived chewing ability is a critical factor for OHRQoL and that masticatory performance rather than food mixing ability is important for perceived chewing ability and OHRQoL in patients with removable partial dentures.
Neuere russische Arbeiten über landwirtschaftliche Schädlinge
Authors: von Besprochen Klemm M.
Published: July 2010

Wladimirjkaja, L., Zur Biologie eines neuen Getreideschädlings Podonta daghestanica Reitt.

Stschegolew, W. N., Getreidehalmwespen, ihre Ökologie und Bekämpfung.

Kreuter, E. A., Beiträge zur Biologie der Gerstenminierfliege Hydrellia griseola.

Vassiljew, I., Der grüne Prachtkäfer als Schädling im Beerenobstbau der Ukraine.

Puchow, B., Aviochemische experimentelle Expedition zur Bekämpfung der Wanderheuschrecken in Dagestan 1926.

Versuche über Vergasung des Getreides und des Mehls mit Chlorpikrin und einigen anderen flüchtigen Stoffen.
Der Kaumagen holzfressender Käfer
Authors: Reichenbach‐Klinke Heinz‐Hermann
Published: July 2010

Zusammenfassung der Ergebnisse

Der Proventrikel der holzfressenden Käfer wird verg1eichend‐morpho1ogisch untersucht, wobei verschiedene Typen aufgestellt werden.

Die citizelnen Funktionen des Proventrikels sind: Filtern, Regelung der Nahrungszufuhr und Zerkleinern.

Die einzelnen Faktoren der Außenwelt, in erster Linie die Nahrung, und die stammesgeschichtlichen Ursachen werden in ihrer Beziehung auf die Entwicklung des Kaumagens aufgezeigt.

Auf Grund der Entwicklung und der dabei wirksamen Faktoren wird die Frage angeschnitten, wie weit der Spezialisierungsgrad des Proventrikels Schlüsse auf die Ernährungsart des Holzschädlings zuläßt.
Zur Kenntnis der Typhlodromiden (Acarina, Parasitiformes) aus Acker‐ und Grünlandböden
Authors: Karg Wolfgang
Published: July 2010

The Typhlodromids of grassland soils are studied systematically. The position of the family and the variability of specific characters are discussed, the most useful bases for species separation are the seta lengths, the toothing of the chelicerae and the spermathecae of the females. Two new species are described and supplementary diagnoses given of three others. The species found belong to the genus Typhlodromus Scheuten.

Im Rahmen von Arbeiten über die Milbenfauna aus Acker‐ und Grünland‐böden werden edaphische Typhlodromiden systematisch untersucht. Die Aufstellung der Familie Typhlodromidae Bernhard wird diskutiert. Die Variabilität von Artmerkmalen wird überprüft. Zur Artunterscheidung sind vor allem die Haarlängen, die Chelicerenbezahnung und die Spermathecae der Weibchen geeignet. 2 neue Arten werden beschrieben und durch Abbildungen belegt. 3 weitere Arten werden besprochen und ihre Beschreibungen vervollständigt. Die gefundenen Arten gehören der Gattung Typhlodromus Scheuten an.
Über die Entwicklung des schwarzbraunen Mehlkäfers, Tribolium destructor Uyttenb
Authors: NATON E.
Published: July 2010

The rearing in diets with low doses of carnitin causes cramp‐like contractions of the mid gut musculature of the adults and, in part, also the skeletal muscles. Blind‐sac‐like bulges are caused in the head region by the contractions of the stomach muscles and at the same time there is a strong epithelial breakdown in the mid gut. The contractions of the skeletal muscles often lead to an almost right‐angled bending upwards of the abdomen.

The cuticle of the adults is often not coloured; this is a secondary manifestation caused by the muscle contractions and the break‐down of the gut epithelium.
Über das Auftreten von Gynandern in Zuchten der Grünen Pfirsichblattlaus Myzus persicae (Sulz.)
Authors: MÜLLER FRITZ PAUL
Published: July 2010

Während des Monats November sind in zwei Zuchten von Myzus persicae (Sulz.) mehrere Gynandromorphe aufgetreten. Diese Gynander sind nach ihrer äußeren Morphologie intermediär zwischen Männchen und ungeflügeltem viviparem Weibchen. Sie sind ungeflügelt und haben auf dem Tergum eine sehr verschieden dunkle Pigmentzeichnung, die von derjenigen der geflügelten Morphen von M. persicae deutlich verschieden ist. Ihre äußeren Geschlechtsorgane sind wie beim normalen Männchen gestaltet. In der Pigmentierung des Kopfes, der Fühler, der Beine und der Siphonen sowie in der Länge der Siphonen und der Haare auf dem VIII. Abdominaltergit ähneln sie dem Männchen. Die Körpergestalt und die Länge der Fühler sind ähnlich dem ungeflügelten viviparen Weibchen. Das Fehlen von sekundären Rhinarien an den Fühlern ist ein weiteres den Weibchen entsprechendes Merkmal.

During the month of November several gynandromorphs occured in two rearings of Myzus persicae (Sulz.). In regard of their external morphology these gynanders are intermediate between the male and the apterous viviparous female. They are apterous and bear on the tergum a very diversely dark pigmentation pattern being distinctly different from that of the alate morphs of M. persicae. Their external genitalia are shaped like in the normal male. As for the pigmentation of the head, of the antennae, of the legs and of the siphunculi, as well as for the length of the siphunculi and of the hairs on the VIIIth abdominal tergite they have a slight resemblance to the male. The shape of the body and the length of the antennae are similar to the apterous viviparous female. The missing of secondary rhinariae on the antennae is a further character appropriate to the female.
Fortschritte in der Kenntnis holzzerstörender Insekten und auf dem Gebiet des Holzschutzes gegen sie
Authors: Becker Günther
Published: July 2010

A general report is given of the results from 1950–1961. In this, preference is gnen to the work of the Institute where the author has worked for 25 years.

After dealing with new information on the spread and economic importance of wood pests in Germany and the rest of the world, the most important contributions on the biology, ecology and physiology of wood feeding insects are summarized. In a second part, improvements in control and protection usine organic materials and oily wood preservatives, water soluble protectants, hot air and irradiation methods are described. Problems and improvements in preservative application techniques are also described, involving penetration ability and regularity of penetration, rules and regulations concerning commercial wood protection methods, detection of work done and quality inspection. The bibliography contains more than 300 entries.
Beitrag zur Kenntnis der mitteleuropäischen Arten und Rassen der Gattung Trichogramma Westw. (Hymenoptera, Trichogrammidae)
Authors: Hochmut R. , Martinek V.
Published: July 2010

Anläßlich von Untersuchungen über biologische Schädlingsbekämpfungen mit Hilfe von Eiparasiten der Gattung Trichogramma West. bemühten sich die Verfasser um eine Verbesserung der systematischen Gliederung dieser Gattung sowie der Trichogramma‐Nomenklatur anhand des von im Freiland festgestellten und ihnen zugesandten Materials. Vier Arten und eine Subspezies, die in verschiedenen Zootopen des tschechoslowakischen Gebietes vorkommen, davon eine neubeschriebene Art, wurden festgestellt. In den Feldzootopen parasitiert an den Schmetterlingseiern Trichogramma evanescens Westw. Charakteristisch für Eichenwälder und Obstgärten ist an den Schmetterlingseiern Trichogramma embryophagum cacoeciae March. und fär Tieflandskiefernbestände an Schmetterlings‐ und Kiefernblattwespeneiern Trichogramma embryophagum (Htg.). In den Gebirgsfichtenwäldern wurde als Eiparasit der Fichtengespinstblattwespe eine neue Art, Trichogramma cephalciae sp. n., und als Parasit von Choristoneura murinana (Hb.) die Art, die durch ihre Merkmale der europäischen Form von Trichogramma minutum Ril. entspricht, festgestellt.
Die Wirkung des Sulfanilamids auf die Symbionten einiger Anobiiden
Authors: Jurzitza Gerhard
Published: July 2010

Die Wirkung des Sulfanilamide (4‐Aminobenzolsulfonamid) auf drei Anobiidensymbionten wird mit Hilfe mikrobiologischer Methoden untersucht. Die Substanz unterbindet bei ausreichender Dosierung (200 mg %) das Wachstum zweier Stämme, während bei 20 mg % nur die Inkubationszeit verlängert wird. Der dritte Stamm sprach erst auf die höchste Konzentration an. Die Hemmwirkung des Sulfanilamides kann durch Zusatz von p‐Aminobenzoesäure aufgehoben werden.
Zur Diapause einiger Forstinsekten1
Authors: Eidman Hubertus
Published: July 2010

Anhand von drei Beispielen larvaler Diapause wird auf die Bedeutung der synchronisierenden Funktion dieser Ruhezustände für die Insekten hingewiesen. Behandelt werden die praepupale Diapause des RüsselkäfersHylobiuts abictisL. sowie die Diapause im Zusammenhang mit der Überwinterung bei der LärchenminiermotteColeophora laricellaHbn. und bei der EulophideEpilampsis boopsThorns.
Zur Biologie einiger Fichten bewohnender Lachnidenarten (Homoptera, Aphidina)
Authors: Scheurer Stephan
Published: July 2010

In der Zeit von 1958 bis 1960 wurden im Harz folgende Lachniden gefunden: C. piceae Panz., C. bogdanowi Mordw., C. pilicornis Htg. und L. costata Zett. Im Jahreszyklus der Lachniden folgen nach dem Schlüpfen der Fundatrices Ende März bei C. pilicornis Htg., L. costata Zett. und vermutlich auch bei C. bogdanowi Mordw. noch vier Tochtergenerationen, von denen die letzte grundsätzlich als zweigeschlechtliche wintereierlegende Generation ausgebildet ist. Ein Teil der dritten Generation ist bei C. pilicornis Htg. bereits zweigeschlechtlich. Der Jahreszyklus ist bei C. piceae Panz. nur auf drei Generationen beschränkt. Die Aufeinanderfolge der Generationen wird bei C. bogdanowi Mordw. durch den Aufenthalt an den Wurzeln von Ende Juni bis Anfang September verwischt. Im Massenwechsel der Baumläuse tritt in der Regel im Frühsommer ein Maximum ein, im Spätsommer kann es zu einem zweiten kleineren Aufstieg kommen. Zwischen diesen beiden Abschnitten liegt die Flugphase und der sich daran anschließende Kolonieaufbau. Starke Hitze, hohe Niederschlagsmengen und verstärktes Auftreten der Feinde führen zum Zusammenbruch der Kolonien. C. bogdanowi Mordw. und C. piceae Panz. werden ausschließlich von Ameisen besucht, während bei C. pilicornis Htg. und L. costata Zett. im Harz nur selten Formiciden beobachtet werden. Enge trophobiotische Beziehungen zwischen den Ameisen und den vier besprochenen Lachnidenarten scheinen nicht zu bestehen. Von Formiciden vernachlässigte Gruppen entwickeln sich genauso wie ameisenreiche Kolonien. Die Ameisen gewähren den Lachniden nur einen gewissen Schutz.