bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marinobacter salsuginis sp. nov., isolated from the brine–seawater interface of the Shaban Deep, Red Sea
Authors: Antunes André , França Luis , Rainey Fred A. , Huber Robert , Nobre M. Fernanda , Edwards Katrina J. , da Costa Milton S.
Published: May 2007

Two moderately halophilic Gram-negative bacteria were isolated from a sample taken from the brine–seawater interface of the Shaban Deep in the Red Sea. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that these organisms represent a novel species of the genus Marinobacter. Cells of the new isolates formed non-pigmented colonies and were motile by means of a single polar flagellum. Strains SD-14BT and SD-14C grew optimally at 35–37 °C, in 5 % NaCl and at pH 7.5–8.0. The organisms were aerobic, but reduced nitrate to nitrogen under anaerobic conditions. Acid was produced from only a few carbohydrates. Ubiquinone 9 was the major respiratory quinone. The major fatty acids of strains SD-14BT and SD-14C were C16 : 0, C18 : 1
ω9c, summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
ω6c/C16 : 1
ω7c) and C12 : 0 3-OH. The DNA G+C contents were 55.9 and 55.7 mol%, respectively. On the basis of the phylogenetic analyses and physiological and biochemical characteristics, it is proposed that strains SD-14BT and SD-14C represent a novel species of the genus Marinobacter, with the name Marinobacter salsuginis sp. nov. The type strain is strain SD-14BT (=DSM 18347T=LMG 23697T).
Burkholderia nodosa sp. nov., isolated from root nodules of the woody Brazilian legumes Mimosa bimucronata and Mimosa scabrella
Authors: Chen Wen-Ming , de Faria Sergio M. , James Euan K. , Elliott Geoffrey N. , Lin Kuan-Yin , Chou Jui-Hsing , Sheu Shih-Yi , Cnockaert M. , Sprent Janet I. , Vandamme Peter
Published: May 2007

Three strains, Br3437T, Br3461 and Br3470, were isolated from nitrogen-fixing nodules on the roots of Mimosa scabrella (Br3437T) and Mimosa bimucronata (Br3461, Br3470), both of which are woody legumes native to Brazil. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, all the strains were shown previously to belong to the genus Burkholderia. A polyphasic approach, including DNA–DNA hybridizations, PFGE of whole-genome DNA profiles, whole-cell protein analyses, fatty acid methyl ester analysis and extensive biochemical characterization, was used to clarify the taxonomic position of these strains further; the strains are here classified within a novel species, for which the name Burkholderia nodosa sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain, Br3437T (=LMG 23741T=BCRC 17575T), was isolated from nodules of M. scabrella.
Aquisalimonas asiatica gen. nov., sp. nov., a moderately halophilic bacterium isolated from an alkaline, saline lake in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Márquez M. C. , Carrasco I. J. , Xue Y. , Ma Y. , Cowan D. A. , Jones B. E. , Grant W. D. , Ventosa A.
Published: May 2007

Two novel moderately halophilic, Gram-negative rods (strains CG12T and CG13) were isolated from Lake Chagannor in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. They were strictly aerobic and motile. They grew at pH 6.0–10.8 (optimally at pH 7.5–8.5), at 20–50 °C (optimally at 37 °C) and at salinities of 1–20 % (w/v) total salts (optimally at 7–10 %, w/v). Phylogenetic analysis of the two strains, based on a comparison of their 16S rRNA genes, led to their classification within the class Gammaproteobacteria, the closest recognized type strain being Alkalispirillum mobile DSM 12769T, with which they were found to share 94.4–94.6 % sequence similarity. On the basis of DNA–DNA hybridization data (showing 100 and 99 % relatedness for each other), the two isolates were found to be members of the same species. The DNA G+C contents of strains CG12T and CG13 were found to be 63.6 and 64.0 mol%, respectively. The major cellular fatty acids of strain CG12T, selected as the representative strain, were C18 : 1
ω7c, C16 : 0 and C12 : 0, and its polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, a phosphoglycolipid and six unidentified phospholipids. On the basis of the polyphasic evidence from this study, strains CG12T and CG13 represent a novel genus and species, for which the name Aquisalimonas asiatica gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Aquisalimonas asiatica is CG12T (=CCM 7368T=CECT 7151T=CGMCC 1.6291T=DSM 18102T).
Tenacibaculum litopenaei sp. nov., isolated from a shrimp mariculture pond
Authors: Sheu Shih-Yi , Lin Kuan-Yin , Chou Jui-Hsing , Chang Poh-Shing , Arun A. B. , Young Chiu-Chung , Chen Wen-Ming
Published: May 2007

A yellow-coloured, aerobic, Gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterial strain, designated B-IT, was isolated from the water of a shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) mariculture pond in Taiwan. No species with a validly published name showed 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of more than 96.5 % to this novel isolate. The highest sequence similarities displayed by strain B-IT (93.2–96.1 %) were to members of the genus Tenacibaculum. The phenotypic properties of this organism were consistent with its classification in the genus Tenacibaculum. The novel isolate could be distinguished from all Tenacibaculum species by several phenotypic characteristics. The major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 (22 %), summed feature 3 (C16 : 1
ω7c and/or iso-C15 : 0 2-OH; 21.3 %), iso-C17 : 0 3-OH (12.7 %) and iso-C15 : 1 (8.7 %). The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 35.2 mol%. Hence, genotypic and phenotypic data demonstrate that strain B-IT should be classified within a novel species in the genus Tenacibaculum, for which the name Tenacibaculum litopenaei sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is B-IT (=BCRC 17590T=LMG 23706T).
Halorubrum arcis sp. nov., an extremely halophilic archaeon isolated from a saline lake on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Xu Xue-Wei , Wu Yue-Hong , Zhang Hui-bin , Wu Min
Published: May 2007

A Gram-negative, aerobic, neutrophilic and extremely halophilic archaeon (strain AJ201T), isolated from Ayakekum salt lake on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau, was investigated by a polyphasic approach. The DNA G+C content of strain AJ201Twas 65.7 mol%. The major polar lipid profile and phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences supported the allocation of the strain to the genusHalorubrum. The results of DNA–DNA hybridizations and physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of strain AJ201Tfrom closely related species. Therefore, strain AJ201Trepresents a novel species of the genusHalorubrum, for which the nameHalorubrum arcissp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is strain AJ201T(=CGMCC 1.5343T=JCM 13916T).
Proposals that the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes establish a public database of validly published names and that the Bacteriological Code be amended to change the prescription for citation of validly published names
Authors: Watson D. R. W. , Young J. M.
Published: May 2007

It is proposed that the International Committee on Systematics of Prokaryotes formally maintain a readily accessible database of validly published names and that Rule 33b of theInternational Code of Nomenclature of Bacteriabe revised to allow a new, abbreviated, format as the sole method by which authors indicate validation of previously published names.
Neo-Latinists worldwide willing to help microbiologists
Authors: Trüper Hans G.
Published: May 2007

As knowledge of Latin is no longer widespread in the community of natural scientists, the International Association for Neo-Latinist Studies (IANLS) has been contacted and asked for assistance in Latin (Neo-Latin) name formation for the formal description of newly isolated prokaryotes. Here, the names and addresses of sixteen Neo-Latin scholars and three microbiologists with knowledge of Latin and relevant experience are given, all of whom offer their help. Instructions about the procedure necessary for such consultations are included.
Multipotent hematopoietic cells susceptible to alternative double-strand break repair pathways that promote genome rearrangements
Authors: Francis Richard , Richardson Christine
Published: May 2007

Chromosomal translocations are a hallmark of hematopoietic malignancies. The initial molecular events or pathways that lead to translocations in hematopoietic cells are largely unknown, particularly in the stem cell-enriched population postulated to be the initial target for these events. We used in vitro differentiation of mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells combined with an I-SceI endonuclease double-strand break (DSB) repair assay to determine the relative susceptibility of isogenic hematopoietic subpopulations to DSB-induced translocations and the mechanisms that generate them. DSB-induced reciprocal translocations were frequently observed in multipotent progenitors but significantly suppressed in actively proliferating myeloid cells. Most reciprocal translocations in multipotent progenitors resulted from repair consistent with single-strand annealing followed by gap repair. Overexpression of Rad51, a protein central to DNA strand exchange and recombination, did not further increase the frequency of recovered translocations but did increase the frequency of long-tract gene conversion events associated with loss of heterozygosity and tandem duplications. These data directly demonstrate that hematopoietic multipotent progenitor cells are particularly susceptible to the formation of chromosomal rearrangements analogous to those observed in human hematopoietic malignancies. This particular subpopulation apparently represents a window of opportunity for the initiation of potentially oncogenic events following DNA damage.
Getting connected: analysis and principles of biological networks
Authors: Zhu Xiaowei , Gerstein Mark , Snyder Michael
Published: May 2007

The execution of complex biological processes requires the precise interaction and regulation of thousands of molecules. Systematic approaches to study large numbers of proteins, metabolites, and their modification have revealed complex molecular networks. These biological networks are significantly different from random networks and often exhibit ubiquitous properties in terms of their structure and organization. Analyzing these networks provides novel insights in understanding basic mechanisms controlling normal cellular processes and disease pathologies.
Inhibition of U snRNP assembly by a virus-encoded proteinase
Authors: Almstead Laura L. , Sarnow Peter
Published: May 2007

It has been proposed that defects in the assembly of spliceosomal uridine-rich small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (U snRNP) complexes could account for the death of motor neurons in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). We discovered that infection of cultured cells with poliovirus results in the specific cleavage of the host factor Gemin3 by a virus-encoded proteinase, 2Apro. Gemin3 is a component of the macromolecular SMN complex that mediates assembly of U snRNP complexes by aiding the heptameric oligomerization of Sm proteins onto U snRNAs. Using in vitro Sm core assembly assays, we found that lowering the intracellular amounts of Gemin3 by either poliovirus infection or small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown of Gemin3 resulted in reduced assembly of U snRNPs. Immunofluorescence analyses revealed a specific redistribution of Sm proteins from the nucleoplasm to the cytoplasmic periphery of the nucleus in poliovirus-infected cells. We propose that defects in U snRNP assembly may be shared features of SMA and poliomyelitis.
Preparation and Use of an Integrated Microcapillary HPLC Column and ESI Device for Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Goodlett David R. , Yi Eugene C. , Mottay Philippe
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

Implementation of separation techniques in miniaturized formats on-line with high-performance mass spectrometers and the development of miniaturized sprayers as electrospray ionization (ESI) ion sources have reduced the amount of peptide required for complete and routine sequence characterization from several picomoles to a few femtomoles and below. Arguably, much of this gain in sensitivity is due to the combination of concentration-dependent type ionization devices such as ESI and on-line capillary separation devices of very small internal diameter (I.D.). This can be primarily attributed to a reduced mass flow rate of solvents and other background constituents into the ESI source, which allows for greater sample ionization efficiency. For reasons of robustness, most microcapillary HPLC (μLC) work is done with 75- or 100-μm I.D. capillary columns that clog less frequently than 50-μm I.D. capillary columns. The following protocol describes the preparation of an integrated C18-packed capillary column-ESI microspray device. In this protocol, a polyimide capillary tip tapered to ~5 μm is used to hold the C18-derivatized particles in place.
Cell Preparation and Multicolor FISH in 3D Preserved Cultured Mammalian Cells
Authors: Cremer Marion , Müller Stefan , Köhler Daniela , Brero Alessandro , Solovei Irina
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) on three-dimensional preserved nuclei (3D-FISH) in combination with three-dimensional-microscopy and image reconstruction is an efficient tool to analyze the arrangement of distinct nuclear targets such as entire chromosome territories, chromosomal subregions, or single gene loci on a single-cell level. This protocol focuses on fixation, pretreatments, and 3D-FISH on cultured mammalian cells. It can be applied to a variety of cell types growing adherently or in suspension.
FISH on Histological Sections
Authors: Solovei Irina , Grasser Florian , Lanctôt Christian
Published: May 2007

Introduction

Here we describe fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of DNA probes to histological sections, which allows the visualization of specific DNA targets (chromosome territories and their subregions) in the context of functional tissue organization. Separate protocols are provided for hybridization using paraffin-embedded tissue sections and for hybridization using vibratome or frozen sections. Pretreatment with heat or protease is necessary to allow unmasking of the target DNA and efficient penetration of reagents in the nuclei. Because the goal of the technique is to obtain data on the native 3D structure of the genome, close attention is paid to the preservation of nuclear morphology.
Preparation of Complex DNA Probe Sets for 3D FISH with up to Six Different Fluorochromes
Authors: Müller Stefan , Neusser Michaela , Köhler Daniela , Cremer Marion
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

DNA probes for fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) can be generated and labeled by various methods. This protocol describes the conjugation of dUTPs with haptens or fluorochromes, as well as the generation and labeling of DNA probes using those modified dUTPs. Sources of probe DNA include genomic DNA, DNA from flow-sorted chromosomes, bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs), and cosmids. DNA amplification and labeling procedures involving degenerate oligonucleotide-primed PCR (DOP-PCR) and multiple displacement amplification (MDA) are provided. Advice is given for setting up complex probe pools, such as those containing large pools of BAC probes. Also included is a method for probe precipitation and preparation of a hybridization mix ready to be used for 3D fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) experiments.
Dejellying Xenopus laevis Embryos
Authors: Sive Hazel L. , Grainger Robert M. , Harland Richard M.
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

This protocol presents a method for preparing Xenopus embryos for manipulation. Embryos are surrounded by a series of thick, protective jelly membranes. Removal of these membranes is the first step in most micromanipulation procedures. These membranes must be completely removed for embryo dissection. For microinjection, membranes can be completely or partially removed.
Removing the Vitelline Membrane from Xenopus laevis Embryos: Figure 1.
Authors: Sive Hazel L. , Grainger Robert M. , Harland Richard M.
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

This protocol presents a method for the removal of the vitelline membrane from Xenopus embryos, which is essential for embryo dissection experiments. Removal of the vitelline membrane is a technique that becomes easier with practice. The easiest embryos on which to learn this technique are those with a large space between the membrane and the embryo, that is, late neurula stages.
Handling Xenopus laevis Adults: Figure 1.
Authors: Sive Hazel L. , Grainger Robert M. , Harland Richard M.
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

This protocol describes the proper technique for handling adult Xenopus animals.
Lentivirus Transduction of Hematopoietic Cells: Figure 1.
Authors: Li Ming-Jie , Rossi John J.
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

Efficient transfer and sustained expression of transgenes are among the most important issues in gene delivery. The majority of hematopoietic cells are nondividing or slowly self-renewing. Thus, they are refractory to most nonviral or retroviral delivery methods. Lentiviral vectors are capable of transducing nondividing cells and maintaining long-term and sustained expression of the transgenes. They are becoming useful for many delivery protocols, such as long-term expression of short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and functional genetics. They may also have great potential in gene therapy. This protocol describes lentivirus-vector-based delivery of foreign genes to hematopoietic cells. The method is applicable to various cell types in experiments that require long-term transgene expression.
Knockdown Transgenic Mice Generated by Silencing Lentiviral Vectors: Zona Pellucida Removal and Subzonal Injection Methods: Figure 1.
Authors: Singer Oded , Tiscornia Gustavo , Verma Inder M.
Published: May 2007

INTRODUCTION

In order to generate transgenic and knockout animals, preimplantation embryos must be harvested and manipulated in vitro. Although the production of transgenic animals has been performed by pronuclear injection of DNA into single-cell embryos, the generation of mouse knockouts is time-consuming and laborious. An embryonic stem (ES) knockout line must be generated, characterized, and injected into a blastocyst in order to obtain a chimeric founder that can be subsequently bred to homozygosity. Taking advantage of the unique ability of lentiviral vectors to generate transgenic animals, one can use lentiviruses expressing short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) from polymerase III (pol III) promoters such as H1 and mU6 to produce transgenic knockdown mice. This protocol describes two methods to deliver genes and small interfering RNA (siRNA)-expressing cassettes into preimplantation mouse embryos using lentiviral vectors: zona pellucida removal and subzonal injection. The zona pellucida removal method is able to achieve up to 100% transgenesis and does not require the use of a micromanipulator. However, zona removal is toxic to the embryos and results in low survival of embryos. The subzonal injection method is able to achieve up to 100% transgenesis and is not toxic for the embryos; therefore, survival of embryos is much higher. Nevertheless, it involves the use of a micromanipulator, which requires some skill.
Characteristics of cardiac and vascular structure and function in Prader–Willi syndrome
Authors: Patel Sanjay , Harmer Jason A. , Loughnan Georgina , Skilton Michael R. , Steinbeck Katharine , Celermajer David S.
Published: May 2007

Objective  Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic obesity syndrome characterized by hyperphagia, behavioural disturbance and intellectual disability. PWS appears to be associated with a high incidence of sudden death, suspected to be cardiopulmonary in origin. We therefore sought to provide an assessment of cardiac and vascular structure and function in patients with PWS.

Patients  Nine patients with genetically confirmed PWS, mean age 28 years, body mass index (BMI) 42 kg/m2, were compared with nine age‐ and gender‐matched lean controls.

Measurements  Lipid parameters, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) and fasting glucose and insulin were measured. To assess cardiac structure and function, a resting electrocardiogram (ECG), exercise stress test, 24‐h continuous ECG monitoring, and echocardiogram were obtained. Patients and control subjects also underwent comprehensive noninvasive vascular assessment, including venous‐occlusion forearm plethysmography, brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD), radial artery tonometry and carotid intima–media thickness (IMT) measurements.

Results  All patients with PWS had significantly elevated hs‐CRP (> 3·0 mg/l) (mean 11·5 mg/l, median 11·47, interquartile range: 4·48–15·8 mg/l), compared with controls (P < 0·001). Five of nine patients with PWS had subnormal exercise capacity (< 4 mets on exercise stress testing). Twenty‐four‐hour ECG monitoring revealed prolonged sinus pauses in one patient, up to 4·8 s, requiring pacemaker insertion. Microvascular function as assessed by peak hyperaemic flow response was decreased in PWS (6·1 ± 1·0 times baseline flow vs. controls 13·5 ± 1·6 times baseline flow, P = 0·01). Other measures were similar between PWS and controls.

Conclusions  This group of PWS patients had significantly raised levels of the inflammatory marker hs‐CRP and evidence of microcirculatory dysfunction, both of which are associated with coronary artery disease and early sudden death. The sinus node dysfunction may in itself be a risk factor for sudden cardiac death.
Differences between endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons in management of the solitary thyroid nodule
Authors: Walsh John P. , Ryan Simon A. , Lisewski Dean , Alhamoudi Mohammed Z. , Brown Suzanne , Bennedbæk Finn N. , Hegedüs Lazlo
Published: May 2007

Background  It is not known whether management of the solitary thyroid nodule differs between endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons.

Methods  A questionnaire containing a hypothetical case (a 42‐year‐old euthyroid woman with a 2‐×‐3‐cm solitary thyroid nodule) and 13 clinical variations was sent to endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons in Australia.

Results  The response rate was 51%, including 122 endocrinologists and 48 endocrine surgeons. For the index case, serum thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) and ultrasonography were widely used by both groups, but thyroid antibody tests and scintigraphy were ordered more commonly by endocrinologists. In the setting of benign cytology, treatment differed significantly between specialties for the index case (endocrinologists: no treatment 78%, surgery 11%, thyroxine 11%; surgeons: no treatment 73%, surgery 25%, thyroxine 2%; P = 0·032). Treatment recommendations also differed significantly for 12 of the 13 clinical variations. In particular, for a patient with a suppressed serum TSH concentration, a majority of endocrinologists recommended radioiodine treatment, whereas surgeons favoured surgery (endocrinologists: radioiodine 53%, surgery 22%, no treatment 25%; surgeons: surgery 60%, radioiodine 11%, no treatment 27%; P < 0·001). For most of the variations, a higher proportion of surgeons than endocrinologists recommended surgical treatment. Comparison with previous surveys of European Thyroid Association and American Thyroid Association members (predominantly endocrinologists) demonstrated considerable international differences in management.

Conclusion  There are clinically significant differences between Australian endocrinologists and endocrine surgeons in management of the solitary thyroid nodule, and international differences in management of this disorder.
Menopausal hormone therapy and gallbladder disease: the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP)
Authors: Schwarz S. , Völzke H. , Baumeister S. E. , Hampe J. , Dören M.
Published: May 2007

Objective  Several studies suggest that oral menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is associated with an increased risk of gallbladder disease. It has been hypothesized that nonoral MHT may reduce the risk of cholelithiasis. The objective of the present study was to analyse the association between (1) use of life‐time MHT (ever use) and gallbladder disease and (2) nonoral use of MHT and gallbladder disease.

Design  Cross‐sectional study using population‐based data from the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP).

Population  The study population included 994 postmenopausal women, aged 40–79 years. The subgroup of current oral and nonoral MHT users comprised 139 women.

Methods and measurements  Sociodemographic, medical and reproductive characteristics were based on computer‐assisted personal interviews, and selected laboratory parameters were analysed. Gallbladder disease was defined by either a prior history of cholecystectomy or the presence of current sonographically diagnosed gallstones. Data analyses consisted of descriptive, bivariable and multivariable procedures. We performed Poisson regression with Huber/White standard errors to investigate the association between ever use, current nonoral use of MHT and gallbladder disease.

Results  We found no significant association between ever use of MHT and gallbladder disease and sonographically diagnosed gallstones in fully adjusted analyses. Women who used MHT had a significantly higher risk for cholecystectomy compared to nonusers. There was no association between nonoral use of MHT and gallbladder disease.

Conclusions  Our analyses do not lend support to the hypothesis that use of MHT is associated with gallbladder disease.
Variation in GH and IGF‐I assays limits the applicability of international consensus criteria to local practice
Authors: Pokrajac A. , Wark G. , Ellis A. R. , Wear J. , Wieringa G. E. , Trainer P. J.
Published: May 2007

Background  There is increasing reliance on consensus criteria for decision making. Recent criteria state that acromegaly is excluded by a nadir GH during an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) of < 1 µg/l and a normal level of IGF‐I.

Objective  To study GH and IGF‐I assay performance close to cut‐off values for active acromegaly.

Design and methods  Two serum samples known to give borderline results were sent to all centres participating in the UK National External Quality Assessment Service (NEQAS). Sample A was assigned to be a nadir during an OGTT and sent for GH assessment to 104 centres. Sample B, with a clinical scenario, was sent to 23 centres that measure IGF‐I, and these centres were asked to measure IGF‐I, interpret the result and provide the source of their reference ranges (RRs).

Results  For sample A, the median GH was 2·6 mU/l (range 1·04–3·5 mU/l). Applying a conversion factor (CF) of 2·0 (1 µg/l = 2 mU/l), the most negatively biased method classified 10% of the values consistent with acromegaly, while the most positively biased method classified all values as consistent with the diagnosis. Applying a CF of 3·0 (1 µg/l = 3 mU/l), only 11% of results were consistent with acromegaly. For sample B, the median IGF‐I was 50·8 nmol/l (range 24·3–60·9 nmol/l). All centres used age‐related RRs. There was a 50% variation in the upper limit of the RRs between centres. Overall, 30% of the IGF‐I results were against the diagnosis. There was little agreement in the RRs quoted by centres using the same method.

Conclusion  Variability in assay performance, coupled with use of inappropriate CFs and RRs, undermines the applicability of international consensus criteria to local practice.
Consequences of protecting flowers in a fig: a one‐way trip for pollinators?
Authors: Gibernau Marc , Hossaert‐McKey Martine , Anstett Marie‐Charlotte , Kjellberg Finn
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Fig trees (Ficus) have closed inflorescences. Closure is an efficient protection of flowers against non‐specialist predators and harsh external environmental conditions. Each Ficus species is pollinated by a single insect species, an agaonid wasp, capable of forcing its way through a bract‐covered pore, the ostiole, to gain access to the flowers. Figs also provide oviposition sites for the wasps. The fig/pollinator interaction is a classic example of mutualism. It has been widely assumed that, once pollinators have entered a fig, oviposited and pollinated, they die trapped within the fig. In this paper, we present observations under natural conditions and results of field experiments on three very different fig species (Ficus aurea Nutt., F. carica L. and F. microcarpa L.) showing that some pollinators do exit or try to exit from the fig after pollination and oviposition. Moreover, experimental results demonstrate that in at least one species (F. carica), the pollinator is able to oviposit successively in two different figs.

The frequency of re‐emergences from figs after pollination varies among species and this may be related to variations in pollination dynamics depending on environmental constraints such as the abundance of trees and tree phenology. Several factors that may favour pollinators that leave figs after pollination and oviposition are discussed. They include competition between pollinators for oviposition sites, and minimising of the risk of vertical transmission of parasites and pathogens.
The ecology and evolution of the New World non‐pollinating fig wasp communities
Authors: West Stuart A. , Herre Edward Allen , Windsor Donald M. , Green Philip R. S.
Published: May 2007

Abstract.We present data on several previously undescribed species from six genera of New World non‐pollinating fig wasps. We show that many of these species have a negative effect on the reproductive success of both the pollinator wasps and the host figs. Our results suggest that the two most abundant genera of non‐pollinating wasps, theIdarnesand theCritogaster, compete for the same pool of female flowers as the pollinating wasps in theUrostigmaandPharmacosyceafigs, respectively. Wasps from the genusAepocerusinduce and develop within large galls, in theUrostigmafigs. By draining resources from the fruit these wasps may have a detrimental effect on the production of pollinator wasps and viable seeds. Some of the species investigated are parasitoids of other non‐pollinating species. We examine the importance of the various forms of spatial heterogeneity in the parasitism rate that can act to stabilise the host‐parasitoid interaction. Finally, we discuss the factors underlying the large variation in the abundance and diversity of the non‐pollinating wasps both among and within fruit crops.
Waiting for wasps: consequences for the pollination dynamics of Ficus pertusa L.
Authors: Anstett Marie Charlotte , Kjellberg Finn , Bronstein Judith L.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Pollination of fig trees depends on mutualist wasps that reproduce within their flowers. Until recently, it was assumed that there was a short window of time during which a fig crop could be pollinated. Hence, pollination of figs was thought to depend on extreme efficiency of the wasps in locating receptive trees. In that context, extensive data on the Costa Rican fig tree Ficus pertusa L. have been very difficult to understand. In F. pertusa, figs of different crops attract wasps at different stages of their development. The crops that attract wasps the earliest in their development are the most heavily visited ones, but mature the fewest pollinator offspring and seeds on a per‐fig basis. Using simulation models of pollinator population dynamics and field data, we show that (i) attractiveness of a crop is prolonged, (ii) wasps prefer large figs when given a choice, and (iii) the observed pattern of preferential early visitation of crops can be explained by temporal variations in pollinator abundance. This emphasizes the importance of population‐level mechanisms to explain the fig/fig wasp mutualism.
Phenology of Ficus variegata in a seasonal wet tropical forest at Cape Tribulation, Australia
Authors: Spencer Hugh , Weiblen George , Flick Brigitta
Published: May 2007

Abstract. We studied the phenology of 198 mature trees of the dioecious fig Ficus variegata Blume (Moraceae) in a seasonally wet tropical rain forest at Cape Tribulation, Australia, from March 1988 to February 1993. Leaf production was highly seasonal and correlated with rainfall. Trees were annually deciduous, with a pronounced leaf drop and a pulse of new growth during the August‐September drought. At the population level, figs were produced continually throughout the study but there were pronounced annual cycles in fig abundance. Figs were least abundant during the early dry period (June‐September) and most abundant from the late dry season (October‐November) through the wet season (December‐April). The annual peak in reproduction actually reflected two staggered peaks arising from gender differences in fig phenology. In this dioecious species, female and male trees initiated their maximal fig crops at different times and flowering was to some extent synchronized within sexes. Fig production in the female (seed‐producing) trees was typically confined to the wet season. Male (wasp‐producing) trees were less synchronized than female trees but reached a peak level of fig production in the months prior to the onset of female fig production. Male trees were also more likely to produce figs continually. Asynchrony among male fig crops during the dry season could maintain the pollinator population under adverse conditions through within‐ and among‐tree wasp transfers.
Site variation in reproductive synchrony in three neotropical figs
Authors: Smith Cecelia M. , Bronstein Judith L.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. To investigate the persistence of figs and their short‐lived pollinators in highly seasonal environments and in small populations, three native figs were studied near the edge of their range in Sonora, Mexico. The reproductive phenologies of Ficus insipida (Willd.) and F. petiolaris (H.B.K.) were contrasted between a drier site with small populations and a wetter site with large populations. In addition, F. pertusa (L.) phenology was censused in the wetter site and compared with findings from Central America. Trees from smaller populations in the drier site produced less synchronous crops. Individuals within populations became reproductively synchronized at the population level but rapidly attained asynchrony in the drier site because of a breakdown in within‐tree crop synchrony. Sexual‐phase overlap occurred in all species and sites. Intraspecific variation in reproductive phenology may explain the persistence of figs and fig wasps in highly seasonal environments and small populations.
Synchronized fruiting between trees of Ficus thonningii in seasonally dry habitats
Authors: Damstra Kim St J. , Richardson Susan , Reeler Bev
Published: May 2007

Abstract. The strategy of flowering available to monoecious fig‐trees (Ficus spp., Moraceae) is restricted by the obligate mutualistic relationship they have with their pollinating wasps (Hymenoptera, Agaonidae). Flowering should be synchronous within a tree, asynchronous between trees, random in the yearly cycle, and irregular from year to year. Exceptions have been predicted to occur in a population that inhabits both seasonally dry and adjacent riparian habitats. Ficus thonningii B1 meets these criteria in Harare, Zimbabwe. The vegetative and reproductive phenologies of twenty‐five mature trees growing close together but in three habitats (watered, non‐watered and intermediate) were studied over 32 months. Trees were generally deciduous between April and August in all habitats. In contrast fruiting phenology was habitat dependant. Watered trees conformed to the general model, but half the trees in the seasonally dry habitat flowered synchronously in the cool dry season. This strategy may result in these trees having relatively superior female reproductive function.
Paternity analysis of the breeding structure of strangler fig populations: evidence for substantial long‐distance wasp dispersal
Authors: Nason John D. , Herre E. Allen , Hamrick James L.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. The mutualistic interaction of figs with their species‐specific wasp pollinators and the role of figs as ‘keystone’ plant resources in tropical communities has received substantial attention from both plant and animal ecologists. Despite this focus on the reproductive biology of figs, the minute size of the wasps has effectively precluded our ability to monitor patterns of wasp dispersal and fig mating relationships in natural forest habitats. In this paper we use genetic markers and genealogy reconstruction techniques to examine the breeding structure of populations of four strangler fig species occurring in central Panama. The natural history of figs facilitates the genetic analysis of full‐sib progeny arrays from which the genotypes of successful pollen donors can be reconstructed precisely. Paternity reconstruction in the four study species reveals that individual flowering trees may routinely receive pollen from numerous donors despite characteristically low densities of co‐flowering individuals. These data indicate not only that breeding populations of these figs are larger than the minimum critical sizes predicted to be necessary to support populations of their species‐specific pollinators, but are more extensive in size and area than has been described for any plant species yet examined. Further, the fig wasps are shown to be efficient agents of long‐distance dispersal, routinely moving up to 10 km between flowering trees. In accord with the potential for substantial long‐distance gene flow and large effective population sizes, ten of eleven species of Panamanian figs assayed were found to maintain exceptionally high levels of genetic variation within their populations. Combined with other reports of occasional long‐distance dispersal, the results of this study suggest that fig wasps may be more effective at colonizing isolated fig populations than previously thought.
Adaptive radiation in the Afrotropical region of the Paleotropical genusLissocephala(Drosophilidae) on the pantropical genusFicus(Moraceae)
Authors: Harry Myriam , Solignac Michel , Lachaise Daniel
Published: May 2007

Abstract.Of sixty‐three extant genera of Drosophilidae, the genusLissocephalais unique in having produced a diverse radiation superimposed on a plant‐insect mutualism.Lissocephalais basically Paleotropical, with twenty‐three Afrotropical and eight Oriental and Australasian species, and seemingly the adaptive radiation occurred on a taxonomically restricted group of host‐plants, species ofFicus(Moraceae), solely in the African floristic region. A paradox results from the consideration that only the African radiation is linked with a strict diversification onFicusspecies, even though this host plant genus is more diverse in the Oriental region. The focus of the present work is to document the diversity of host‐figs exploited byLissocephalain the African mainland (twenty‐two fig species have yielded twenty‐threeLissocephalaspecies, but similarities in numbers between insects and plants does not seemingly result from species specificity), and to show that the clear‐cut divide between the two African strictly fig‐breedingLissocephalalineages (thejunctaandsanugroups) observed from male terminalia is further supported on the basis of 28S nuclear DNA divergence. Evolutionary scenarios are discussed whereby the two AfricanLissocephalalineages might have diverged on the African mainland or arisen independently from Oriental ancestors. Although the possibility remains that thejunctaandsanulineages set foot independently on the African mainland, it is more likely that there was a single colonization event for a commonjuncta—sanuancestor. A stepwise host‐fig transfer would then have occurred on the African mainland. The AfricanLissocephalaancestor would have first spread among theSycomorusfigs and only secondarily among theGaloglychiafigs.
Relation of fig fruit characteristics to fruit‐eating bats in the New and Old World tropics
Authors: Kalko Elisabeth K. V. , Herre Edward Allen , Handley Charles O.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Long‐term studies of a Panamanian fig community have revealed that the figs separate into two major groups based on distinct patterns in fruit characteristics including fruit size, colour, scent and synchrony of ripening. Furthermore, these differences can be linked to sensory, morphological and behavioural capabilities of the figs' primary dispersers. One group of figs attracts primarily bats; the other group is visited mainly by birds. Whereas fruits of ‘bat’ figs span a wide range of size classes, ripen synchronously and remain green(ish) when ripe, all fruits of ‘bird’ figs have small fruit which ripen asynchronously and turn red when ripe. Among ‘bat’ figs, fruit size is correlated with body size of the bats that prefer them. Based on the consistent differences between ‘bat’ and ‘bird’ fig fruits in Panama we expect similar patterns in Old World figs. Furthermore, since fig‐eating bats of the Old World differ in morphology, behaviour and sensory capabilities from fig‐eating bats of the New World we speculate that these differences should be reflected in differences in fruit characteristics of Old and New World ‘bat’ figs. Personal observations and literature reports of Old World bats and figs are consistent with our predictions.
The role of animals in the colonization of the Krakatau Islands by fig trees (Ficus species)
Authors: Thornton Ian W. B. , Compton Stephen G. , Wilson Craig N.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Since the biologically extirpating eruption of Krakatau (Sunda Strait) in 1883, Rakata (Krakatau's remnant) and two closely adjacent islands, Sertung and Panjang, have been colonized by over 200 species of vascular plants. They now carry species‐poor mixed tropical forest, including some twenty‐three species of Ficus. Data on the sequence of colonization over the last century by twenty‐four Ficus species, twenty‐three species of volant frugivores, and by agaonid fig‐wasps, presumably from the large islands of Java and Sumatra, each some 44 km distant, are summarized. The potential of the volant frugivores as dispersers of fig seeds is assessed, the pollination problems involved in the colonization of islands by figs are reviewed and patterns of colonization by fig species and by their bird and bat dispersers are identified and discussed.

In 1930 a new island, Anak Krakatau, emerged from Krakatau's submerged caldera. This active volcano suffered a self‐sterilizing eruption in 1952/1953 and has been colonized, under considerable constraint from its own volcanic activity, probably largely from the (selected) species pool present on Rakata, Sertung and Panjang, 2–4 km away. Its vegetation is at an earlier successional stage (grassland and Casuarina woodland) than that of the three older islands, and in 1992 the Casuarina woodland was in an early stage of transition to mixed forest. The colonization of Anak Krakatau by Ficus species, agaonid wasps and volant frugivores over a critical decade (1982–92) is reviewed, including preliminary assessments of the effects of pollinator limitation on four pioneer fig species and indications of a possible effect of the presence of avian raptors, particularly the peregrine falcon, on fig colonization and forest diversification.
An overview of studies on a community of Panamanian figs
Authors: Herre Edward Allen
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Findings from long‐term studies of eighteen monoecious fig species and their associated pollinators, parasites, and seed dispersers from a lowland tropical forest community in Panama are summarized. Studies of evolutionary genetics confirm the suggestion from earlier morphological studies that pollinator and non‐pollinator wasps, as well as parasitic nematodes, are generally species‐specific. Further, phylogenetic reconstructions suggest that these systems are predominated by strict‐sense co‐evolution among several trophic levels of fig‐associated organisms. Studies of population genetics show that fig wasps routinely disperse pollen over surprisingly great distances. Moreover, both the number of individual fig trees constituting a breeding population and the area that they occupy (>100km2) are among the largest for any plant species known. Studies of factors influencing reproductive success of both the figs and their pollinators indicate that, for any given species, many factors (e.g. number and size of pollinators, resource availability, parasite loads) interact in complex but systematic ways to affect the production of seeds and pollinator wasps. Across species, there are repeated patterns of associations among characters such as average number of pollinators per fruit, pollinator sex ratios, nematode virulence, fruit size, fruit colour, physiological properties of the fruit, taxa of associated seed dispersers and degree of synchrony of fruit ripening that imply causal, adaptive linkages and trade‐offs among these characters. Collectively, these studies suggest the critical role for comparative work of many species, preferably at many sites, in the understanding of this complex mutualism.
A summary of geographical characteristics of the Galapagos Islands
Authors: Snell Heidi M. , Stone Paul A. , Snell Howard L.
Published: May 2007

Republished here, with permission, in a slightly modified form, from Noticias de Galapagos 55, July 1995, 18–24. Copyright remains, by agreement, with Noticias de Galápagos, which is published by The Charles Darwin Foundation for the Galápagos Islands.
Recent range expansion and distributional limits of the nine‐banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) in the United States
Authors: Taulman James F. , Robbins Lynn W.
Published: May 2007

Abstract. Prior to the mid 1850s armadillo dispersal may have been inhibited by native subsistence hunters, the Rio Grande acting as a physical hindrance, and natural habitat barriers posed by fire‐maintained grasslands. European colonists settled south Texas in mass during the latter half of the 19th century and largely removed existing impediments to armadillo range expansion, effectively releasing the species into the United States. The speed of the armadillo's natural range expansion after 1850 was probably accelerated by human travel and commerce into and out of its historic range in south Texas on a proliferation of roadways and railroads. This translocation process will likely continue and, combined with natural dispersal, will provide the armadillo the opportunity to ultimately become established in any habitats in the United States in which it can survive.

Limits to future distribution will likely be determined by climatic factors, and may be bounded by regions receiving at least 38 cm annual precipitation and having mean January temperatures >−2°C, or fewer than 24 total annual freeze days. Armadillos may have already approached a precipitation‐defined boundary to the west and a distribution on the Great Plains limited by winter temperature minima. They may be expected to continue their advance up the East Coast to about the region of 41° North Latitude, decreasing to 39° North Latitude across the midwestern states. Future introductions on the West Coast may result in the establishment of armadillo populations in suitable habitats from California to Washington, an event that has already taken place with another tropical mammal emigrant, the opossum.