bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of Nuuanu (Amphipoda: Gammaridea: Melitidae) from shallow sandy bottoms of the Balearic Islands (W Mediterranean)
Authors: Jaume Damià , Box Antoni
Published: October 2008

Nuuanu beatricis n. sp., a new melitid amphipod, is described from shallow-water sandy bottoms on the S and SE coasts of Mallorca (Balearic Islands, Mediterranean). It differs from the rest of its congeners in the combination of: (1) non-geniculate antennule, much longer than antenna; (2) distal segment of mandibular palp shorter than second, armed with both D and E setae; (3) second segment of mandibular palp with 2 setae; (4) posteroventral lobe (sensu Lowry and Watson, 2002) absent from posterior margin of coxa 4; (5) reduced spine present on medial surface of coxa 5; (6) posterior margin of basis of pereopod 5 convex; (7) anterodistal lobe of coxa 7 wanting; (8) posterior margin of basis of pereopod 7 sparsely serrated along proximal half only; (9) pleonites 1-2 lacking dorsodistal spines; (10) anterodistal corner of epimeral plate 1 rounded; (11) exopod of uropod 3 longer than protopod; and (12) telson with terminal spine on each lobe. Although the new amphipod could be an alien species introduced from a distant tropical location with alien Caulerpa algae species, it is here regarded as an ancient Mediterranean element owing to its peracarid condition (i.e. reduced potential for dispersal), regressed visual apparatus, and crevicular-interstitial existence. The presumed presence of sternal gills in Nuuanu is rejected after demonstration of the coxal origin of the spiniform structures interpreted elsewhere as sternal gills.
Spawning areas and larval distributions of anchovy Engraulis encrasicolus in relation to environmental conditions in the Gulf of Tunis (Central Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Zarrad Rafik , Missaoui Hechmi , Alemany Francisco , Mohamed Salah Romdhane , Garcia Alberto , Ridha M'rabet , Othman Jarboui , Abed Amor El
Published: October 2008

Early life stages of anchovy were investigated in the Gulf of Tunis by means of four seasonal surveys carried out from summer 2002 to spring 2003. Anchovy eggs and larvae were found all year round, but they were much more abundant in spring and summer. In spring, the main spawning area was located in the north of the Gulf, to the west and southwest of Zembra Island. In summer, higher egg and larva abundances were also observed to the southwest of Zembra Island, but secondary spawning grounds were detected in the vicinity of the mouths of the Rivers Majreda and Meliane. No direct correlations between sea surface temperature (SST), salinity (SSS) and chlorophyll a and the horizontal distribution of eggs and larvae were observed. However, egg distributions in all seasons and larval distributions in summer and autumn were significantly related to depth. The temporal variation of temperature seems to control the spawning intensity and the beginning of spawning seems to be triggered by the increase in SST.
Spatial patterns and GIS habitat modelling of Solea solea, Pleuronectes flesus and Limanda limanda fish larvae in the eastern English Channel during the spring
Authors: Koubbi Philippe , Loots Christophe , Cotonnec Gwenaelle , Harlay Xavier , Grioche Alain , Vaz Sandrine , Martin Corinne , Walkey Mike , Carpentier Andre
Published: October 2008

The spring distribution of larval fish stages of flatfishes in the Dover Strait (eastern English Channel) was studied in 1995 and 1999. Fish larvae were identified and sorted according to developmental stages in order to study their ontogenic distribution. The French coastal waters are characterised by an unstable tide-dependent front, which influences larval dispersion. In spring, the French coastal waters have a high phytoplanktonic production. They have higher temperatures, lower salinities and differences in current intensity compared with the central English Channel waters. Generalised Additive Models (GAM) combined with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to model the potential habitats of life stages considering data from three major surveys in this area. The models were developed by coupling presence-absence models with non-null abundance models. The potential habitat of larval stages was then mapped using a geostatistical method (kriging). This revealed different species strategies in which young stages were abundant in central waters and older ones were distributed mainly along the French and Belgian coasts. It is concluded that the central English waters are important for young stages after hatching and that coastal waters are essential nurseries for future juveniles. The models of three flatfish species having similar life cycle strategies are presented here: Limanda limanda, Platichthys flesus and Solea solea.
Three-dimensional reconstruction of the F-actin musculature of Dorvillea kastjani (Dorvilleidae, Polychaeta) by means of phalloidin-labelling and cLSM
Authors: Filippova Anna , Purschke Günter , Tzetlin Alexander B. , Müller Monika C. M.
Published: October 2008

This paper is part of a series investigating the muscular architecture of various “Polychaeta”, aiming to ascertain the presence of circular muscles in the body wall, which have recently been thought to be lacking more often than hitherto known. The F-actin muscular subset of Dorvillea kastjani was labelled with phalloidin and the architecture three-dimensionally reconstructed by means of confocal laser scanning microscopy. Three pairs of longitudinal, two transverse and numerous radial muscles ensure shape and flexibility of the prostomium. Mobility of the sub-biramous parapodia and their chaetae is achieved by seven different muscle types. The body wall contains transverse and bracing muscles and in total five longitudinal muscle strands: two dorsolateral, two ventral and one ventromedial. Numerous transverse fibres extend from the dorsal side peripherally and ventrally and become concentrated into six or seven pairs of bundles per segment on the ventral side. They terminate before reaching the midline, leaving a gap of only a few micrometres between them. Within the intersegmental furrows these fibres form complete rings in a supralongitudinal postion. Thus, true circular fibres exist in D. kastjani but are weakly developed.
Spermiogenesis and sperm ultrastructure of Asetocalamyzas laonicola Tzetlin, 1985 (Polychaeta), an ectoparasite of the large spionid Scolelepis cf. matsugae Sikorsfi, 1994, from the White Sea
Authors: Vortsepneva Elena V. , Zhadan Anna E. , Tzetlin Alexander B.
Published: October 2008

The sperm ultrastructure and spermatogenesis of the ectoparasitic polychaete Asetocalamyzas laonicola Tzetlin, 1985 (Calamyzidae) is investigated. The male cells are located freely in the coelom. The spermatocytes are large cells of irregular shape; their nuclei have condensed chromatin in the periphery. Spermatocyte cytoplasm is granular and electron-dense with several spherical mitochondria. During early developmental stages spermatids are aggregated into a rosette (four cells). The early spermatids have a tiny acrosomal vesicle at one side of the cell, a few round mitochondria at another, and electron dense nuclei. The late spermatids have elongated mitochondria, a well-developed acrosome and a flagellum. The mature sperm are threadlike with a round acrosomal vesicle, an electron-dense structure. The elongated nuclei have anterior and posterior depressions. The supporting root zone of the acrosome is located behind the acrosomal vesicle in the anterior invagination of the nuclei. Six elongated mitochondria surround the flagellum and form the midpiece of the sperm. A single centriole lies in the posterior depression of the nucleus. The middle part of the flagellum possesses a normal (9+2x2) pattern. Probably, the terminal part of flagellum is modified. The sperm structure suggests internal fertilization or another type of specialized sperm transfer in A. laonicola.
Low crested coastal defence structures on the Catalan coast of the Mediterranean Sea: how they compare with natural rocky shores
Authors: Gacia Esperança , Satta María Paola , Martín Daniel
Published: October 2008

Erosion problems in coastal zones are increasingly threatening Mediterranean shores. In tourist areas such as the Catalan coast, there has been an increasing demand for the construction of low crested structures (LCS) to maintain beaches for recreational purposes. We studied the composition of the biota from three LCS and compared it with that of nearby natural rocky shores. Our purpose was to assess the composition of the communities growing on the LCS at a regional scale and to explore potential patterns of community composition in LCS in relation to the nature of the surrounding coast (i.e. sand or rocky shore), distance from natural hard-bottom communities and orientation of the blocks within the structure. The communities growing on the LCS were similar to those from nearby natural shores but the diversity and the number of taxa was always lower. Sixty to 95% of the species present on natural rocky shores grew on LCS, and differences in the number of taxa between the natural and the artificial substrates increased with increasing distances between them. On the Catalan coast, LCS act as impoverished rocky shores that never become natural ‘climax’ communities.
Emigration and retention of Palinurus elephas (Fabricius, 1787) in a central western Mediterranean marine protected area
Authors: Follesa Maria Cristina , Cuccu Danila , Cannas Rita , Sabatini Andrea , Cau Angelo
Published: October 2008

This study describes the results obtained by applying the Arnason Schwartz multistate mark-recapture model to eight years of data collected in and around a small no-fishing marine protected area (MPA; 4 km2) in the central western Mediterranean. From 1997 to 2004, a total of 4044 specimens of Palinurus elephas (Fabr., 1787) were tagged and 317 recaptured. The most parsimonious model which best explained the data variability was that of a temporally constant rate of apparent survival and movement in each of the two strata. The absence of any temporal influence in the apparent survival rate inside the no-take area suggested that spillover and mortality are constant for each period of the study. The lower apparent survival rate in surrounding zones than inside the MPA (0.26 ± 0.04 (SE) vs 0.94 ± 0.03 (SE)) is presumed to be a function of fishing effort. A continuous movement of P. elephas across the boundary of the small MPA was also tested. This information on retention of lobsters in the MPA contributes to our understanding of the effect of introducing MPAs into a managed commercial fishery system.
Assessment of spatial environmental quality status in Ria de Aveiro (Portugal)
Authors: Batista Lopes Cláudia , Pereira María Eduarda , Vale Carlos , Lillebo Ana Isabel , Pardal Miguel Ângelo , Costa Duarte Armando
Published: October 2008

The productivity of Ria de Aveiro is sustained by the large quantities of dissolved inorganic nutrients, mainly from freshwater inputs (e.g. agricultural drainage) and organic-rich anthropogenic point sources (e.g. urban sewage). The concentration of silicate and nitrate showed a similar seasonal variation and conservative behaviour, since 63 to 96% of the total variance of the concentration of silicate and 88 to 96% of the total variance of the concentration of nitrate were explained by salinity. On the other hand, the concentration of nitrite, ammonium, and phosphate did not seem dependent on the freshwater inputs, showing a random distribution with salinity. Nutrient concentrations were always higher in the two inner areas than at the outer boundary of the system. Chlorophyll a showed higher concentrations throughout spring and summer, and also in the inner areas. The annual variation of N:P, N:Si and phytoplankton biomass suggests that there is a large excess of nitrate. The results suggest that within a system with low overall eutrophic condition (OEC) and low susceptibility (US-NEEA index), the quality status of different areas within the system can vary (Applying the EU-WFD criteria proposed for the trophic classification of the Baltic Sea). This work also suggests that in coastal lagoons such as Ria de Aveiro, where the quality status of certain specific areas may vary, these particular areas should be taken under consideration for specific monitoring programmes and management measurements, particularly with regard to anthropogenic point sources.
Diet of larval albacore Thunnus alalunga (Bonnaterre, 1788) off Mallorca Island (NW Mediterranean)
Authors: Catalán Ignacio Alberto , Alemany Francisco , Morillas Ana , Morales-Nin Beatríz
Published: October 2008

These are the first data on the feeding of larval albacore (Thunnus alalunga Bonnaterre, 1788) in the Mediterranean. Specimens were gathered from day-time bongo-hauls conducted over the SW Mallorcan (Balearic Islands) shelf-slope. Ninety eight percent of 101 individuals ranging from 2.65 to 9.4 mm standard length (SL) contained 1 to 15 prey items per gut. Mean number of prey/gut was 3.55 ± 2.19 (SD). A positive correlation was found between larval SL and the number of prey/gut. The analysis of frequency of occurrence (F), numerical frequency (N), weight frequency (W) and the Index of Relative Importance (IRI) showed a dominance of copepodites and nauplii in the smallest size-class. As larvae grew, cladocerans and Calanoida copepodites dominated the diet, and cladocerans and copepodites were important in F, N and W. Piscivory was observed after notochord flexion and was important in terms of W. A positive correlation between mean prey size and both SL and lower jaw length (LJL) was observed. The niche breadth (S) did not vary with LJL, but the raw prey size range did. Larger copepodites, the absence of nauplii and the incorporation of fish larvae and a larger number of cladocerans in the diet accounted for the increase in mean prey size through increased larval size.
Relative growth of the semi-terrestrial crab Pachygrapsus marmoratus: an information-theory approach
Authors: Prototapas Nikos , Katsanevakis Stelios , Thessalou-Legaki Maria , Verriopoulos George
Published: October 2008

The patterns of allometric growth of the grapsid crab Pachygrapsus marmoratus were investigated with an information-theoretic approach. This approach is beneficial, more robust, and may reveal more information than the classical approaches (e.g. hypothesis testing). No differentiation in allometric growth was detected between right and left chelar propods in either sex. Significant sexual differentiation in the allometric growth of chelar propods, abdominal somites and telson was found. It was shown that the allometry of chelar propodus width may be used to identify puberty in males, as there is a marked breakpoint at a carapace width of ~16.0 mm. For females, puberty was identified by the breakpoint in the allometry of the third and fourth abdominal somites at a carapace width of ~16.5 mm. In many cases (e.g. in chelar propods of males, or in most abdominal somites and the telson in females) the classic allometric equation log Y = log a + b log X has no essential support and non-linear allometric models between the log-transformed morphometric characters have to be used.
Feeding behaviour of the hydromedusa Aequorea vitrina
Authors: Ulrik RiisgÅrd Hans
Published: October 2008

The prey-capture mechanism of the hydromedusa Aequorea vitrina was studied by means of laboratory video-microscope observations. In stagnant water A. vitrina remains stationary with its very long (about 4x bell diameter) marginal tentacles motionless hanging down in the water, ready for ambush capture of prey organisms that collide with the tentacles. A. vitrina was found to be efficient at capturing brine shrimps (Artemia salina), less efficient at capturing rotifers (Brachionus plicatilis), and very inefficient at capturing copepods (Acartia tonsa). The initial hauling up of an extended marginal tentacle with an adhering prey is fast (>10 mm s-1). Both the bell margin and the mouth move towards each other so that the captured prey can be transferred from the tentacle to the elongated mouth-lips to be further transported into the mouth and stomach. It takes about 20 s from when an Artemia prey organism encounters a tentacle until it is transferred to the mouth-lips. The subsequent digestion in the stomach takes about 30 min. When A. vitrina encounters a jellyfish-prey (a small medusa of Aurelia aurita), it starts to swim in order to adhere the relatively big prey to its mouth-lips. Then A. vitrina opens its mouth wide to swallow the captured medusa, a process which takes about 15 to 20 min. The subsequent digestion takes 2 to 3 h. Field observations of undisturbed A. vitrina made by snorkelling in the Limfjord (Denmark) revealed that the feeding behaviour was similar to that observed in the laboratory in stagnant water. It is concluded that A. vitrina is an ambush-predator, and not a cruising-predatory medusa as previously suggested.
Comparative study of gonadal development of Ruditapes philippinarum (Adams and Reeve) and Ruditapes decussatus (L.) (Mollusca: Bivalvia): Influence of temperature
Authors: Delgado Marina , Pérez-Camacho Alejandro
Published: October 2008

Laboratory experiments were used to study the influence of temperature on the reproductive behaviour of two species of clam, Ruditapes decussatus and Ruditapes philippinarum, during their adaptation to the temperature conditions of Galician coastal waters. In both species the rate of gonadal development was directly related to the increase in temperature. At 14°C the reproductive behaviour was similar, both species needing over 2 months to mature. At 18°C, the rate of gonadal development of R. philippinarum was greater than that of R. decussatus. Nevertheless, the results of this study confirm that both species have adapted perfectly to the temperature conditions of the Galician Rias, though certain differences between the reproductive behaviour of these species were detected. R. philippinarum accumulates oocytes prior to their partial or total emission, while in the case of R. decussatus gametes are liberated continuously. In the early phases of its development, the gonad of R. philippinarum is highly heterogeneous in nature, with up to 3 reproductive states being present at the same time, while in R. decussatus gonadal development is much more uniform. Another major difference concerns the phenomenon of reabsorption, common in R. philippinarum but very rare in R. decussatus. These characteristics may well result in a greater reproductive activity in R. philippinarum than in R. decussatus, and a longer reproduction period in the former. They may also represent a certain advantage for the adaptation of the foreign species (R. philippinarum) over the native species (R. decussatus) to the temperature conditions of the Galician Rias.
Phytoplankton on the western coasts of Baja California in two different seasons in 1998
Authors: Hernández-Becerril David U. , Bravo-Sierra Ernesto , Aké-Castillo José A.
Published: October 2008

Phytoplankton was studied in two different seasons of 1998 (March-April and December), during two cruises along the western coasts of Baja California, in three zones. Two different protocols for obtaining and studying phytoplankton were followed. In the March-April season, phytoplankton had relatively low species richness and was dominated in cell density (up to 93%) by coccolithophorids (mainly Emiliania huxleyi), together with nanoplanktonic centric and pennate diatoms, with abundances ranging from 5.4 103 to 1.2 105 cells L-1. In December, phytoplankton had higher species richness and was represented by larger, chain-forming diatom species, such as Pseudonitzschia delicatissima and P. pungens, which were widespread and numerically significant. There was a relative scarcity of coccolithophorids and thecate dinoflagellates, and densities were between 7 102 and 1.4 106 cells L-1. Hydrographic and oceanographic conditions in March-April were influenced by the occurrence of El Niño and the phytoplankton structure was found to be modified accordingly, with nanoplanktonic coccolithophorids and diatoms being significant contributors to the total abundance. In contrast, post-upwelling conditions might have favoured relatively high densities of Pseudonitzschia and other diatoms in December, 1998. Coccolithophorids have not been previously regarded as important contributors to the phytoplankton abundances in Baja California.
Predation upon Diadema aff. Zantillarum in barren grounds in the Canary Islands
Authors: Clemente Sabrina , Hernández José Carlos , Toledo Kilian , Brito Alberto
Published: October 2008

Experimental studies were carried out to determine the effects of predation on populations of the sea urchin Diadema aff. antillarum in barren grounds at the Canary Islands. The studied urchin populations were dominated by small to medium sized individuals (24-38 mm) and were variable in space. Tethering experiments showed that predation rates on D. aff. antillarum were very low and no differences were found between sites. Predation was found to be most intense on juveniles (< 20 mm) and on 20-30 mm sized adults, the size range at which most individuals cease to exhibit cryptic behaviour. Urchins with test diameter > 40 mm were not preyed upon whatsoever. We have experimentally demonstrated that there is an absolute predator ‘escape size’ of around 40 mm for D. aff. antillarum individuals in barren grounds. Predation rates obtained for juveniles show that a sufficient number may escape predation and sustain the adult population, maintaining the urchin barren habitat. Recruitment and topographic complexity, rather than predation, seem to determine the structure of urchin populations in barren grounds. We conclude that predation in fished barren grounds of the Canarian Archipelago is not of sufficient magnitude to substantially alter dense urchin populations and cause community-level effects.
Benthic foraminiferal variability on a monthly scale in a subtropical bay moderately affected by urban sewage
Authors: Burone Leticia , Valente Paulo , Pires-Vanin Ana Maria S. , De Mello e Sousa Silvia Helena , Mahiques Michel M. , Braga Elisabete
Published: October 2008

Benthic foraminifera were sampled monthly during a one-year period in order to examine their biological response to the environmental factors in the Ubatuba Bay (northern coast of São Paulo State, Brazil). The area is a popular tourist destination with a population that varies during the year, as does the untreated sewage carried into the bay by the rivers. Four sites were analysed. Each station is near one of the rivers that discharge into the bay. Biological data were analysed with multivariate and univariate techniques. The influence of the abiotic parameters on the foraminiferal fauna was inferred through statistical methods and time correlation functions. Geochemical and populational parameter differences allowed the sites to be separated into two groups according to their stress conditions. One group was dominated by Ammonia tepida—a herbivore species—and showed higher densities indicating a more productive and less contaminated location. The other one was dominated by Buliminella elegantissima—a detritivore species. Species diversity did not seem to be a good indicator of environmental health in this area due to the low densities and the high dominance of few species. Nevertheless, density and richness were used as evidence of local productivity and environmental conditions. Quasi-azoic moments related to the high degree of contamination were observed. Anthropogenic effects were stronger in the austral summer period, when sewage input through the rivers increases due to mass tourism.
Comparison of diamond- and square-mesh codends in the hake (Merluccius merluccius L. 1758) trawl fishery of the Adriatic Sea (central Mediterranean)
Authors: Lucchetti Alessandro
Published: October 2008

A traditional codend (40 mm diamond mesh) and an experimental codend (40 mm square mesh) made of 2.6 mm diameter knotless PA netting were tested on a commercial trawl net on a sandy-muddy bottom (~70 m depth) of the Adriatic sea in order to assess the size selectivity of European hake (Merluccius merluccius) and the reduction of the discards in a demersal multi-species trawl fishery. The catch was sorted as target species and bycatch and the selectivity with respect to European hake was investigated using the covered codend method. The square-mesh codend allowed a reduction of about 37% of the fraction discarded at sea. The mean catch obtained with the experimental codend was lower than that obtained with the traditional codend (about 14 kg per haul) but the short-term economic losses were low (~12%). The square-mesh codend was also more selective than the traditional codend, giving the juveniles of European hake a good chance of escape: the mean selection length (L50) was 7.60 cm in DM and 12.98 cm in SM. Moreover, the mesh configuration did not affect the gear’s performance. Thus, the square-mesh codend could be an easy, inexpensive and useful solution for a more sustainable management of the resources in Adriatic multi-species fishery.
New data on Gaidropsarus granti (Regan, 1903) (Gadiformes: Lotidae) from the Mediterranean Sea, with emphasis on its parasites
Authors: Pais Antonio , Merella Paolo , Follesa Maria Cristina , Garippa Giovanni , Golani Daniel
Published: October 2008

One adult male Azores rockling Gaidropsarus granti was captured by trammel nets at a depth of about 250 m near the coast of Arbatax (Sardinia, Italy) in early March 2007. This new report confirms a wide bathymetric range for this species. Macroscopic and microscopic analysis of the gonad showed a spent testis at a postspawning stage, with a weak residual spermatogenetic activity. Several body parts of Natantia (Crustacea: Decapoda) were detected in its stomach contents. Different developmental stages of 91 parasite specimens belonging to Arthropoda (Gnathiidae) and Nematoda (Anisakidae, Cystidicolidae and Philometridae) were found in its mouth and gills, and body cavity, respectively. Myxozoan spores were found in the gallbladder. Male and female nematodes of the genus Ichthyofilaria are reported for the first time from the Mediterranean Sea, and a very rare male of this genus is reported for the second time in the world. Parasitological results indicated that this Atlantic migrant probably entered the Mediterranean as an adult, suggesting for a non-indigenous species the possibilities of entering with natural parasites and/or acquiring native parasites in the introduced range.
Effects of hydraulic dredging on the physiological responses of the target species Chamelea gallina (Mollusca: Bivalvia): laboratory experiments and field surveys
Authors: Moschino Vanessa , Chicharo Luis M. Z. , Marin María Gabriella
Published: October 2008

The effects of mechanical stress in the Venus clam Chamelea gallina during hydraulic dredging were assessed in both laboratory and field studies in order to measure physiological biomarkers at organism level (clearance rate, respiration rate, scope for growth, and survival in air test). In the laboratory, mechanical stress was simulated by shaking clams in a vortex mixer. In the field, clams were collected seasonally at two sites along the northern Adriatic coast (Lido and Jesolo) and four levels of stress were applied: the highest was that used in commercial fishing (i.e. high water pressure and mechanised sorting) and the lowest manual sampling by SCUBA divers. Survival in air was the most sensitive biomarker in evaluating mechanical stress in the laboratory. Clearance rate also decreased significantly when shaking was applied. Field results indicated that high water pressure and mechanised sorting affected clearance, scope for growth and survival in air, all showing decreasing trends as mechanical stress increased at both sampling sites. The detrimental effects of mechanical disturbance may be emphasised depending on season, when exogenous and endogenous stress increases. A potential risk is highlighted mostly for undersized clams that are fished and then discarded.
Degeneration of postovulatory follicles of the Bay of Biscay anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus L.)
Authors: Alday Ana , Uriarte Andrés , Santos María , Martín Inmaculada , Martinez de Murguia Amalia , Motos Lorenzo
Published: October 2008

The degeneration of postovulatory follicles (POFs) in time and at different temperatures was studied for the Bay of Biscay anchovy. For this purpose a key of 7 POF stages, solely defined on the basis of their histological degeneration characteristics, was applied. The novelty of this procedure is that it separates staging of POFs from their ageing process. The female gonads, taken from several captivity experiments and field samples, were classified in this way. Water temperature in captivity tanks corresponded to high values (17-21°C), except for one case in which different day and night temperatures were applied. In addition, 472 field samples (11948 anchovy females) from several cruises were examined; of these, 126 samples (3348 females) were identified as coming from areas of high sea surface temperature (weighted mean =17.76°C, s.d.=0.84) and 131 samples (3181 females) as coming from areas of low sea surface temperature (weighted mean =14.42°C, s.d.=0.75). There was close agreement in the succession of POF stages over time after spawning between the experiment and the field samples. The first four stages of POF degeneration occurred in less than 24 h, and by the end of the first day the POFs were mainly in Stage V. Stages VI and VII showed their highest occurrence during the first and second half of the second day after spawning, respectively. Full resorption of POFs was achieved in about 55-60 h. For the range of temperatures examined (13-19°C), little effect of temperature on the degeneration of POFs over time was noticed. The advanced degeneration stages were found all day round, showing some overlapping periods when successive spawning cohorts co-occurred. The application of these results for ageing POFs is discussed.
Bloom dynamics of the genus Pseudo-nitzschia (Bacillariophyceae) in two coastal bays (NW Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Quijano-Scheggia Sonia , Garcés Esther , Flo Eva , Fernandez-Tejedor Margarita , Diogène Jorge , Camp Jordi
Published: October 2008

The spatial and temporal variations in the composition of Pseudo-nitzschia during bloom events from August 2005 to February 2006 were characterised in two bays of the NW Mediterranean Sea (Alfacs and Fangar Bay) by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The study provides detailed records of the Pseudo-nitzschia community at the species level and describes its relationship with both the surrounding environmental conditions and biotic factors such as the accompanying phytoplankton community. The size distributions of several species of Pseudo-nitzschia were monitored during the bloom events. These measurements may serve as indicators of the physiological status of the cells. The species observed in the two bays were Pseudo-nitzschia calliantha, P. delicatissima, P. fraudulenta, P. multistriata, and P. pungens. In Alfacs Bay, a mixed species bloom of P. calliantha and P. delicatissima began in late August 2005 and lasted 11 weeks. In Fangar Bay, the Pseudo-nitzschia bloom was limited to the period from early August to late September 2005 and comprised P. calliantha and P. delicatissima. Commonly, the proliferation of Pseudo-nitzschia was mono-specific or was accompanied by other diatoms. Two objectively defined groups were identified by the statistical analysis in Alfacs bay; the first was made up only of winter samples and the second of summer and autumn samples. The first group was defined by a high concentration of NO3¯ and low concentrations of NH4+, conditions associated with a high abundance of P. delicatissima and a low abundance of P. calliantha. The second group expressed the opposite characteristics. A succession of different blooming species of Pseudo-nitzschia lasting months in Alfacs Bay is described.
Gonadal growth and reproduction in the sea urchin Sphaerechinus granularis (Lamarck 1816) (Echinodermata: Echinoidea) in southern Spain
Authors: Martínez-Pita Inés , Sánchez-España Ana I. , García Francisco J.
Published: October 2008

The gonadal index and reproductive state of the sea urchin Sphaerechinus granularis were studied for a year in three populations from southeast Spain. The development of the gonad during the period of study was assessed using histological methods and four maturity stages were considered for female specimens and two for male specimens. The study of gonad development showed a clearly defined annual cycle of gametogenesis with a single spawning period in summer-autumn. It begins in June at Torremuelle and Palmeral and a month later at La Herradura. The three populations exhibited similar reproductive patterns, having mature gonads in almost all the months. Though the environmental conditions were similar, the population from La Herradura had the highest Gonadosomatic Index value (GSI) and that from Torremuelle the lowest one.
A model reference robust control with application to a flight control system design
Authors: Xu Jiang , Yan Lin
Published: October 2008

In this paper, a new model reference robust control scheme for plants with relative degree greater than one is proposed for the purpose of coping with the “explosion of complexity” problem in control law design. The key of the scheme is that we use a first‐order filter to link each subsystem, so that the derivative of some nonlinear functions can be avoided. As a result, the final control law can be greatly simplified. The application of this scheme to a flight control system shows that both the tracking performance and the control effort can be improved significantly in comparison with earlier research. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Column and diagonal‐reduction of polynomial matrices by orthogonal transformation
Authors: Stefanovski Jovan
Published: October 2008

Many of the applications of polynomial matrices in real world systems require column‐ or diagonally‐reduced polynomial matrices. If a given polynomial matrix is not column‐ or diagonally‐reduced, Callier or Wolowich algorithms, which use unimodular transformations, can be applied for column‐ or diagonal‐reduction, respectively, as a pre‐processing step in the applications. However, Callier and Wolowich algorithms may be unstable, from a numerical viewpoint, because they use elementary column and row operations. The purpose of this paper is to present sufficient conditions for existence of a constant orthogonal transformation of the given polynomial matrix so that it becomes column‐ or diagonally‐reduced. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Review of reproductive and developmental toxicity studies with isopropanol
Authors: Faber Willem D. , Pavkov Kenneth L. , Gingell Ralph
Published: October 2008

Published studies for reproductive and developmental toxicity conducted with isopropanol have been conducted by the inhalation and oral gavage routes of administration. Interpretation of the data from these studies has resulted in discussions regarding NOAELs and additional benchmark dose modeling publications. Unpublished reproductive and developmental toxicity studies administered in the drinking water were also conducted by BIBRA, and the results of those studies are presented here. In addition, all of the reproductive and developmental toxicity studies conducted with isopropanol are summarized and evaluated for concordance of effects and NOAELs. Endpoints of concern for regulatory agencies were decreases in male mating index and reductions in postnatal pup survival. Original study reports were evaluated and data collated to address these two endpoints, and the data summarized. Data are presented suggesting that there were technical problems in the study that implied a decrease in male mating index, and based on the results from the drinking water studies, the weight of evidence suggests that isopropanol does not affect male mating or fertility at dose levels of up to 1000 mg/kg/day. The weight of evidence suggests that isopropanol can cause decreases in postnatal pup survival following oral gavage administration of 1000–1200 mg/kg/day to the dams. The NOAEL for this endpoint with oral gavage administration was 700 mg/kg/day. Indications of maternal toxicity were also an important predictor for decreased postnatal survival. Decreased postnatal pup survival was also noted in the drinking water studies with isopropanol with a LOAEL of 2278 mg/kg/day and a NOAEL of 1947 mg/kg/day. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 83:459‐476, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Studying protein structure and function using semisynthesis
Authors: Muir Tom W.
Published: October 2008

In this review, which is more or less a transcript of my du Vigneaud Award Lecture, I cover the development and application of the protein semisynthesis technique, Expressed Protein Ligation (EPL). EPL allows the assembly of modified proteins from recombinant and synthetic peptide building blocks. The approach has been widely used since its introduction in 1998 and has allowed a number of biochemical problems to be solved through the use of CEdesigner1 proteins. In this article, the utility of the approach is illustrated through work in my own lab and with an emphasis on the use of EPL to study the role of protein post‐translational modifications. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 90: 743–750, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Pollenschlauchwachstum. Need for speed oder: im Rausch der Geschwindigkeit
Authors: Pertl Heidi , Obermeyer Gerhard
Published: October 2008

Trotz seines einfachen Aufbaus ist die Biologie des Pollenkorns komplizierter als erwartet. Die einzelnen zellulären Prozesse, die für das Wachstum des Pollenschlauches wichtig sind, sind vielfach über ein regulatorisches Netzwerk miteinander verknüpft, sodass nur eine genaue Steuerung aller Prozesse zu einem erfolgreichen und schnellen Wachstum führt. Störungen im Ablauf der zellulären Prozesse führen zu einem Stopp oder einer Verlangsamung des Schlauchwachstums oder einem zu schnellen Wachstum mit dem Risiko des Platzens des Schlauches. In beiden Fällen ist keine erfolgreiche Befruchtung mehr möglich. Vielleicht erlaubt diese labile Balance die Selektion des fittesten Erbgutes für die nächste Generation der Pflanzen.
Welternährung im 21. Jahrhundert. Eine umfassende Herausforderung (Teil 1)
Authors: Krawinkel Michael B. , Keding Gudrun B. , Chavez‐Zander Ursula , Jordan Irmgard , Habte Tzige‐Yohannes
Published: October 2008

Die Ernährung der Weltbevölkerung im 21. Jahrhundert erscheint manchen als unlösbares Problem. Tatsächlich umfasst diese Herausforderung mehr als eine Steigerung der landwirtschaftlichen Produktion. Aus einem kurzen Rückblick auf die Geschichte der Nahrungsproduktion werden verschiedene Aspekte der Entwicklung deutlich: Errungenschaften wie die “Grüne Revolution”, aber auch ihr Preis in der Zunahme der Zahl der Landlosen. Große Unterschiede bestehen in der landwirtschaftlichen Produktivität: Auf den bisher schon genutzten Flächen kann mehr produziert werden. Der Klimawandel verändert die Rahmenbedingungen landwirtschaftlicher Produktion mit Verlusten und Gewinnen an nutzbarer Fläche. Allein durch Innovationen in Pflanzenzucht und ‐anbau sind die Herausforderungen der Welternährung nicht zu bewältigen. Sozioökonomische Faktoren, Bildung und Gesundheit spielen eine zunehmende Rolle.
Höhlenfische: Und die im Dunkeln sieht man doch...
Authors: Tobler Michael , Plath Martin
Published: October 2008

Die Weibchen des Atlantikkärpflings (Poecilia mexicana) bevorzugen große Männchen. Doch was geschieht, wenn Populationen dieser Art in der vollkommenen Dunkelheit von Höhlen leben? Aktuelle Forschungsergebnisse zeigen, dass die Evolution hier in unterschiedliche Richtungen wirken kann: Während die Weibchen in einer kleinen Höhle keine Unterschiede zwischen großen und kleinen Männchen machen, entwickelten die Weibchen einer größeren Höhle die Fähigkeit, auch im Dunkeln besonders attraktive Sexualpartner zu finden.
Überexpression rekombinanter Proteine
Authors: Boesler Benjamin , Müller Sara
Published: October 2008

Für viele biochemische und molekularbiologische Analysen ist es notwendig, Proteine in großer Menge herzustellen. Dazu werden im Labor beispielsweise gentechnisch veränderte Bakterienstämme von Escherichia coli genutzt, die zu einer vermehrten Expression rekombinanter Proteine fähig sind.
Ilja Ilič Mečnikov erhält den Nobelpreis für Medizin und Physiologie
Authors: Penzlin Heinz
Published: October 2008

Vor hundert Jahren erhielten der russische Zoologe Ilja Ilič Mečnikov und der deutsche Mediziner Paul Ehrlich den Nobelpreis für Medizin und Physiologie “als Anerkennung ihrer Arbeiten über die Immunität”. Mit Mečnikov wurde der Hauptvertreter des zellulären, mit Paul Ehrlich der Hauptvertreter des humoralen Konzepts der natürlichen Abwehrvorgänge geehrt. Beide Konzepte bilden heute die Grundpfeiler der modernen Immunologie.
Alternative dispute resolution in medical malpractice: A survey of emerging trends and practices
Authors: Szmania Susan J. , Johnson Addie M. , Mulligan Margaret
Published: October 2008

This article summarizes the survey findings from thirteen organizations offering alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services in medical malpractice cases. We discuss the types of disputes handled, the ADR systems used, the typical case outcomes, and the staff qualifications. We also report on the challenges and successes that these ADR programs faced, including the impact of recent legislation on medical malpractice litigation. The results highlight the central role of communication in resolving conflict following unexpected medical errors.
The mediation metamodel: Understanding practice
Authors: Alexander Nadja
Published: October 2008

The mediation metamodel provides a systematic framework for understanding mediation as it is practiced in a variety of professional and cultural contexts. Six mediation practices are introduced within the framework of the metamodel: settlement mediation, facilitative mediation, transformative mediation, expert advisory mediation, wise counsel mediation, and tradition/based mediation. The relationships of these different practices to one another are explored and the assumptions underlying them are examined with reference to the literature. The metamodel provides orientation in the dispute resolution field not only for mediators, parties, and their lawyers, but also for regulators, referring bodies, researchers, and students of mediation.
Analysis of high molecular mass proteins larger than 150 kDa using cyanogen bromide cleavage and conventional 2‐DE
Authors: Morla Aymeric , Poirier Florence , Pons Sylvie , Beaulieu Corinne , Charrier Jean‐Philippe , Ataman‐Önal Yasemin , Gléhen Olivier , Jolivet Michel , Choquet‐Kastylevsky Geneviève
Published: October 2008

Proteomic approaches including high‐resolution 2‐DE are providing the tools needed to discover disease‐associated biomarkers in complex biological samples. Although 2‐DE is an extremely powerful approach to analyze the proteome, the separation of proteins with extreme molecular masses still remains an issue requiring improvement. Because high molecular mass (HMM) proteins larger than 150 kDa have already been observed to be differentially expressed in several pathologies such as cancer, we developed an original strategy to analyze this part of the proteome that is not easily separated by 2‐DE in polyacrylamide gels. This strategy is based on the 2‐DE separation of cyanogen bromide (CNBr) fragments of purified HMM protein fractions, and combines techniques including SEC fractionation, TCA precipitation, CNBr cleavage, 2‐DE and MS analysis. The method was first tested on a model protein, the BSA. Preliminary results obtained using colonic tissues led to the identification of six HMM proteins with Mr comprised between 163 and 533 kDa in their reduced state. These results demonstrated that our CNBr/2‐DE approach should provide a powerful tool for identification of new biomarkers larger than 150 kDa.
Enantiomeric separation of some flavanones using shinorhizobial linear octasaccharides in CE
Authors: Kwon Chanho , Paik Seung R. , Jung Seunho
Published: October 2008

Succinoglycan, a shinorhizobial exopolysaccharide produced by Shinorhizobium meliloti, is composed of an octasaccharide subunit. S. meliloti produces both high‐molecular‐weight and low‐molecular‐weight (Mr<10 000) succinoglycans that consisted of monomer, dimer, or trimer of an octasaccharide unit. We isolated and purified the monomer among low‐molecular‐weight succinoglycans and used this microbial linear octasaccharide as a novel chiral additive for enantiomeric separation of some flavanones such as homoeriodictyol, hesperetin, naringenin, and isosakuranetin in CE. Throughout the present investigation, we firstly used noncyclic oligosaccharides for the chiral separation of flavanones. We also found that successful enantioseparation of four flavanones depends on the presence of succinate substituents of the linear monomeric octasaccharide in CE, suggesting that succinylation of succinoglycan monomer is decisive for the effective enantiomeric separation.
Further Basidiomycetes from Yemen
Authors: Kreisel H. , Al‐Fatimi M.
Published: October 2008

As a result of recent (2004–2007) collections from continental Yemen and Socotra island, 22 additional species of Basidiomycetes could be added to the macromycete flora of Yemen, and additional localities of species already known from Yemen are enumerated. For the first time since 1892 several species of larger fungi have been collected on the Socotra island, belonging to Yemen.

The distribution of macromycete species in the principal types of habitat (main vegetation units) is presented, some phenomena of adaptation with regard of spore dispersal under conditions of semidesertic and steppe habitats are described, and the mycogeographic elements represented in the territory are discussed. Endemic taxa of macromycetes could not be ascertained with reliability from Yemen up to date. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Gedanken über sommergrüne Breitlaubwälder
Authors: Knapp H. D.
Published: October 2008

Die klimatisch bedingten Varianten nemoraler Laubwälder werden in ihrer pflanzengeographischen Stellung skizziert und für Europa durch Vegetationstypen der Karte der natürlichen Vegetation Europas charakterisiert. Flächenanteil und Struktur von sommergrünen Breitlaubwäldern wurden durch Waldrodungen und diverse Nutzungen stark verändert. Ihre Schutzsituation ist unzureichend und bedarf der Verbesserung durch deutliche Erhöhung des Anteils von nutzungsfreien Schutzgebieten und durch konsequente Anwendung der Prinzipien guter fachlicher Praxis in Wirtschaftswäldern. Deutschland trägt eine besondere globale Verantwortung für den Schutz von Buchenwäldern. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)