bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The importance of species identity in the biocontrol process: identifying the subspecies of Acacia nilotica (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae) by genetic distance and the implications for biological control
Authors: Wardill Trevor J. , Graham Glenn C. , Zalucki Myron , Palmer William A. , Playford Julia , Scott Kirsten D.
Published: October 2005

Aims  A molecular genetic distance study has been used in an initial survey to identify subspecies and genotypes of the weed Acacia nilotica in Australia, information needed to find suitable biocontrol agents. We use patterns of DNA sequence variation (in two DNA fragments) from each of the nine described subspecies of Acacia nilotica (L.) Delile (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae) that is to determine their genetic similarity, to verify if the Australian populations are A. nilotica ssp. indica (Benth.) Brenan, and to establish if any other subspecies are present in Australia.

Location  Australia and southern Africa through the Arabian peninsular to the Indo‐Pakistan subcontinent.

Methods  Representative specimens from the global distribution of the nine A. nilotica subspecies were sourced primarily from herbaria sheet specimens where available, and secondarily from field collections. These specimens together with related outgroups from Mimosoideae were genetically analysed using the DNA fragments trnL and internal transcribed spacer one (ITS1). We calculated a similarity index as set out in paup* using upgma (Unweighted Pair‐Group Method Arithmetic average) methods to cluster taxa to produce a genetic distance phenogram.

Results  Sequence results from ITS1 and trnL DNA fragments identified seven of the described subspecies of A. nilotica. Acacia nilotica ssp. cupressiformis (J. Stewart) Ali & Faruqi and A. nilotica ssp. adstringens (Schumach. & Thonn.) Roberty were not found to be genotypically distinct from A. nilotica ssp. indica and A. nilotica ssp. nilotica, respectively, based on the two DNA fragments. Subspecific ITS1 genotypes were geographically distributed similarly to previous reports that were based on morphology, with the exception that the hemispherica ITS1 genotype also occurred in Somalia. We confirmed that the Australian A. nilotica populations are mostly comprised of subspecies indica, but in addition, some individuals were found to be genetically identical to an unidentified Pakistan genotype not previously reported as occurring in Australia.

Main conclusions  Australian A. nilotica populations originated from India and Pakistan and we recommend further analysis to determine the complete genetic diversity profile and origins of the Australian populations. We highlight the importance of determining any hybridization between Australian populations of A. nilotica and native subgenus Acacia species. This study demonstrates the importance of genotyping weed species targeted for biocontrol and/or listed host specificity test species that may be easily misidentified. Biocontrol practitioners can justify genetic studies by considering the costs should a project fail through misidentification.
Understorey plant community structure in lower montane and subalpine forests, Grand Canyon National Park, USA
Authors: Laughlin Daniel C. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Fulé Peter Z.
Published: October 2005

Aim Our objectives were to compare understorey plant community structure among forest types, and to test hypotheses relating understorey community structure within lower montane and subalpine forests to fire history, forest structure, fuel loads and topography.

Location Forests on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA.

Methods We measured understorey (< 1.4 m) plant community structure in 0.1‐ha plots. We examined differences in univariate response variables among forest types, used permutationalmanovato assess compositional differences between forest types, and used indicator species analysis to identify species driving the differences between forest types. We then compiled sets of proposed models for predicting plant community structure, and used Akaike's information criterion (AICC) to determine the support for each model. Model averaging was used to make multi‐model inferences if no single model was supported.

Results Within the lower montane zone, pine–oak forests had greater understorey plant cover, richness and diversity than pure stands of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosaP. & C. Lawson var.scopulorumEngelm.). Plant cover was negatively related to time since fire and to ponderosa pine basal area, and was highest on northern slopes and where Gambel oak (Quercus gambeliiNutt.) was present. Species richness was negatively related to time since fire and to ponderosa pine basal area, and was highest on southern slopes and where Gambel oak was present. Annual forb species richness was negatively related to time since fire. Community composition was related to time since fire, pine and oak basal area, and topography. Within subalpine forests, plant cover was negatively related to subalpine fir basal area and amounts of coarse woody debris (CWD), and positively related to Engelmann spruce basal area. Species richness was negatively related to subalpine fir basal area and amounts of CWD, was positively related to Engelmann spruce basal area, and was highest on southern slopes. Community composition was related to spruce, fir and aspen basal areas, amounts of CWD, and topography.

Main conclusions In montane forests, low‐intensity surface fire is an important ecological process that maintains understorey communities within the range of natural variability and appears to promote landscape heterogeneity. The presence of Gambel oak was positively associated with high floristic diversity. Therefore management that encourages lightning‐initiated wildfires and Gambel oak production may promote floristic diversity. In subalpine forests, warm southern slopes and areas with low amounts of subalpine fir and CWD were positively associated with high floristic diversity. Therefore the reduction of CWD and forest densities through managed wildfire may promote floristic diversity, although fire use in subalpine forests is inherently more difficult due to intense fire behaviour in dense spruce–fir forests.
Deriving ecological relationships from geographical correlations between host and parasitic species: an example with orchid bees
Authors: Nemésio André , Silveira Fernando A.
Published: October 2005

Aim  To investigate biogeographical patterns of cleptoparasitic Exaerete bee species and their orchid bee hosts.

Location  Neotropical region, from Central America to southern Brazil.

Methods  Correlations between relative frequencies of cleptoparasitic Exaerete species and their host Eulaema species were employed to investigate the geographical association between such species pairs.

Results  Our data support the current proposition that the Eulaema meriana/Eulaema flavescens complex is the main host for Exaerete frontalis. Contrary to current belief, however, Eulaema nigrita apparently is not the only and, in some regions, not the most important host for Exaerete smaragdina.

Main conclusions  Current knowledge on cleptoparasite host associations among orchid bees is based on fortuitous observations, and in some instances generalizations from such observations are not corroborated by the frequencies and distributions of the bees involved. Our data suggest that cleptoparasitic pressure, rather than other features of the forest environment, may be responsible for the low abundance of E. nigrita in the Amazonian forests.
Endemic and Indo‐Pacific plankton in the Mediterranean Sea: a study based on dinoflagellate records
Authors: Gómez Fernando
Published: October 2005

Aim  To investigate biogeographical patterns based on published dinoflagellate records from the Mediterranean and Black Seas, and to provide a tentative list of endemic and Indo‐Pacific dinoflagellates in the Mediterranean Sea.

Location  Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea.

Methods  Checklists of dinoflagellates of the Mediterranean and Black Seas were compared with worldwide literature records. Only species reported in the Indo‐Pacific Ocean or exclusively known in the Mediterranean Sea were selected for biogeographical analysis.

Results  Dinoflagellates in the Mediterranean Sea comprised c. 43% of the world marine species and c. 88% of the dinoflagellate genera. Species richness among the Mediterranean sub‐basins showed marked differences due to the less reliable records of unarmoured (athecate) and rare dinoflagellates. These differences disappeared when only the more easily identifiable taxa were considered. Of the 673 dinoflagellates cited in the Mediterranean, 87% were also reported in the Atlantic Ocean. Only 40 taxa (6% of the total) were considered to be potential Indo‐Pacific species. Most were reported from the Ligurian Sea (21), and only two species from the Levantine basin. The other 48 taxa (7% of total) were known exclusively from the Mediterranean Sea, mainly from the Ligurian Sea. Half of these taxa were reported by a single author.

Main conclusions  Substantial dinoflagellates species richness can be attributed, in part, to the historical tradition of taxonomic studies in the Mediterranean Sea. The list of species of both Indo‐Pacific and exclusively Mediterranean species included taxa of dubious taxonomic validity or that were insufficiently known. The exclusion of these questionable taxa revealed the near absence of endemic dinoflagellates in the Mediterranean Sea compared with macroscopic organisms. This could be related to: (1) continuous replenishment of the plankton populations by the inflow of Atlantic water through the Strait of Gibraltar, (2) the possibility that species introduced during the Pliocenic flooding after the Messinian salinity crisis have not had enough time to diverge from their Atlantic ancestors, and/or (3) the reliance on traditional taxonomy based on morphological characters, which precludes the detection of cryptic speciation.
Deciphering patterns of transoceanic dispersal: the evolutionary origin and biogeography of coastal lizards (Cryptoblepharus) in the Western Indian Ocean region
Authors: Rocha Sara , Carretero Miguel A. , Vences Miguel , Glaw Frank , James Harris D.
Published: October 2005

Aim  Cryptoblepharus is a genus of small arboreal or rock‐dwelling scincid lizards, widespread through the Indo‐Pacific and Australian regions, with a disjunct outlier in the Malagasy region. The taxonomy within this genus is controversial, with different authors ranking the different forms (now some 36) at various levels, from different species to subspecies of a single species, Cryptoblepharus boutonii. We investigated the biogeography and genetic differentiation of the Cryptoblepharus from the Western Indian Ocean region, in order to understand their origin and history.

Location  Western Indian Ocean region.

Methods  We analysed sequences of mitochondrial DNA (partial 12s and 16s rRNA genes, 766 bp) from 48 specimens collected in Madagascar, Mauritius, the four Comoros islands and East Africa, and also in New Caledonia, representing the Australo‐Pacific unit of the distribution.

Results  Pairwise sequence divergences of c. 3.1% were found between the New Caledonian forms and the ones from the Western Indian Ocean. Two clades were identified in Madagascar, probably corresponding to the recognized forms cognatus and voeltzkowi, and two clades were identified in the Comoro islands, where each island population formed a distinct haplotype clade. The East African samples form a monophyletic unit, with some variation existing between Pemba, Zanzibar and continental Tanzania populations. Individuals from Mauritius form a divergent group, more related to populations from Moheli and Grand Comore (Comoros islands) than to the others.

Main conclusions  The level of divergence between the populations from the Western Indian Ocean and Australian regions and the geographic coherence of the variation within the Western Indian Ocean group are concordant with the hypothesis of a colonization of this region by a natural transoceanic dispersal (from Australia or Indonesia). The group then may have diversified in Madagascar, from where it separately colonized the East African coast, the Comoros islands (twice), and Mauritius. The genetic divergence found is congruent with the known morphological variation, but its degree is much lower than typically seen between distinct species of reptiles.
Vulnerability of Mediterranean Basin ecosystems to climate change and invasion by exotic plant species
Authors: Gritti E. S. , Smith B. , Sykes M. T.
Published: October 2005

Aim To assess at a broad scale the vulnerability of Mediterranean vegetation to alien plant invasion under different climatic and disturbance scenarios.

Location We simulated the vegetation biogeography and dynamics on five of the main islands of the Mediterranean Basin: Mallorca, Corsica, Sardinia, Crete and Lesvos.

Methods We used LPJ‐GUESS, a generalized ecosystem model based on dynamic processes describing establishment, competition, mortality and ecosystem biogeochemistry. We simulated the vegetation distribution and dynamics using a set of plant functional types (PFTs) based on bioclimatic and physiological parameters, which included tree and shrub PFTs defined especially for the Mediterranean. Additionally, two invasive PFTs, an invasive tree type and an invasive herb type, were defined and used to estimate the vulnerability to invasion of a range of different ecosystems. The model was used to simulate climate changes and associated changes in atmospheric [CO2] to 2050 according to twoSpecialReport on Emissions Scenariosclimate scenarios (A1Fi and B1) combined with mean disturbance intervals of 3 and 40 years.

Results The simulations and scenarios showed that the effect of climate change alone is likely to be negligible in many of the simulated ecosystems, although not all. The simulated progression of an invasion was highly dependent on the initial ecosystem composition and local environmental conditions, with a particular contrast between drier and wetter parts of the Mediterranean, and between mountain and coastal areas. The rate of ecosystem disturbance was the main factor controlling susceptibility to invasion, strongly influencing vegetation development on the shorter time scale.

Main conclusions Further invasion into Mediterranean island ecosystems is likely to be an increasing problem: our simulations predict that, in the longer term, almost all the ecosystems will be dominated by exotic plants irrespective of disturbance rates.
Apoptosis: a basic biological phenomenon with wide‐ranging implications in human disease
Authors: FADEEL B. , ORRENIUS S.
Published: October 2005

Apoptosis is a highly regulated process of cell deletion and plays a fundamental role in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis in the adult organism. Numerous studies in recent years have revealed that apoptosis is a constitutive suicide programme expressed in most, if not all cells, and can be triggered by a variety of extrinsic and intrinsic signals. Many human diseases can be attributed directly or indirectly to a derangement of apoptosis, resulting in either cell accumulation, in which cell eradication or cell turnover is impaired, or cell loss, in which the apoptotic programme is inadvertently triggered. In addition, defective macrophage engulfment and degradation of cell corpses may also contribute to a dysregulation of tissue homeostasis. An increased understanding of the signalling pathways that govern the execution of apoptosis and the subsequent clearance of dying cells may thus yield novel targets for therapeutic intervention in a wide range of human maladies.
Removal of tonic nitrergic inhibition is a potent stimulus for human proximal colonic propagating sequences
Authors: Dinning P. G. , Szczesniak M. , Cook I. J.
Published: October 2005

Abstract  Propagating sequences (PS) are important in colonic propulsion and defecation, yet the triggers of these motor patterns are not understood. Nonadrenergic noncholinergic neurones are believed to modulate smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract via the ubiquitous inhibitory neurotransmitter nitric oxide (NO). In the mouse colon periods of quiescence correlate with an increase in the release of NO. We investigated the colonic response to NO synthase inhibition in the conscious human subject. Intravenous infusion of saline or NG‐monomethyl‐l‐arginine (l‐NMMA; 3 or 6 mg kg−1 h−1) occurred in random order in six healthy volunteers in whom a 5 m long nasocolonic manometry catheter was positioned such that 16 recording sites, at 7.5‐cm intervals, spanned the terminal ileum and colon. l‐NMMA infusion at 3 mg kg−1 h−1, but not 6 mg kg−1 h−1 significantly (P = 0.02) increased proximal colonic PS frequency (2.0 ± 1.9 vs 11.7 ± 7.0 PS h−1) and non‐propagating motor activity (5296 ± 2750 vs 6362 ± 1275 mmHg s). We conclude that blockade of NO synthesis has a stimulatory effect on the frequency of proximal colonic PS. This suggests removal of tonic nitrergic inhibition of the colon might be a physiological stimulus for propagating activity.
The hallucinogenic herbSalvia divinorumand its active ingredient salvinorin A inhibit enteric cholinergic transmission in the guinea‐pig ileum
Authors: Capasso R. , Borrelli F. , Capasso F. , Siebert D. J. , Stewart D. J. , Zjawiony J. K. , Izzo A. A.
Published: October 2005

Abstract Salvia divinorumis a widespread hallucinogenic herb traditionally employed for divination, as well as a medicament for several disorders including disturbances of gastrointestinal motility. In the present study we evaluated the effect of a standardized extract from the leaves ofS. divinorum(SDE) on enteric cholinergic transmission in the guinea‐pig ileum. SDE reduced electrically evoked contractions without modifying the contractions elicited by exogenous acetylcholine, thus suggesting a prejunctional site of action. The inhibitory effect of SDE on twitch response was abolished by the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone and by theκ‐opioid antagonist nor‐binaltorphimine, but not by naltrindole (aδ‐opioid receptor antagonist), CTOP (aμ‐opioid receptor antagonist), thioperamide (a H3receptor antagonist), yohimbine (anα2‐receptor antagonist), methysergide (a 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor antagonist),NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (an inhibitor of NO synthase) orapamin (a blocker of Ca2+‐activated K+channels). Salvinorin A, the main active ingredient ofS. divinorum, inhibited in a nor‐binaltorphimine‐ and naloxone‐sensitive manner electrically induced contractions. It is concluded that SDE depressed enteric cholinergic transmission likely through activation ofκ‐opioid receptors and this may provide the pharmacological basis underlying its traditional antidiarrhoeal use. Salvinorin A might be the chemical ingredient responsible for this activity.
Low‐dose lactulose produces a tonic contraction in the human colon
Authors: Jouët P. , Sabaté J.‐m. , Cuillerier E. , Coffin B. , Lémann M. , Jian R. , Flourié B.
Published: October 2005

Abstract  Lactulose (10–20 g day−1) is used to treat constipation. At this therapeutic dose, its effects on colonic motility remain unknown. Twenty‐two healthy subjects swallowed a probe with an infusion catheter, six perfused catheters and a balloon connected to a barostat. Colonic phasic and tonic motor activity was recorded in fasting state. In group 1, four volunteers ingested 15 g lactulose and motility was recorded for 5 h after entry of lactulose into the caecum; in group 2, motility was recorded during (3 h) and 2 h after intracolonic infusion of isoosmotic and isovolumetric solutions containing sodium chloride alone (n = 9) or with 15 g lactulose (n = 9). In a last group of volunteers, isotopic colonic transit after ingestion of lactulose (10 g,n = 9) was assessed and compared with a control group (n = 17). Ingestion or intracolonic infusion of 15 g lactulose significantly decreased barostat bag volume (maximal decrease: 45 ± 12% and 35 ± 9% of basal value respectively). Phasic contractions remained unchanged. Tonic and phasic motility was unchanged by the isotonic and isovolumetric infusion of saline. Ingestion of lactulose significantly accelerated isotopic colonic transit time compared with the control group. We conclude that in healthy humans, 10–15 g ingestion or intracaecal infusion of lactulose produces a prolonged tonic contraction that may be involved in the laxative effect of lactulose.
Nonatopic allergen‐independent mast cell activation in parasitized eosinophilic athymic rats
Authors: STOTEN A. , HUNTLEY J. , MISTRY H. , HARPER S. , BUNDICK R. , BROWN A. , PRITCHARD D. I.
Published: October 2005

It is possible to induce eosinophilia in congenitally athymic rats by infection with the parasite Ascaris suum. Athymic bronchial eosinophilia is associated with increased expression of IL‐5 and eotaxin mRNA, and with the presence of residual T cells and mast cells. Anamnestic mastocytosis is particularly pronounced and in this study we examine the relationship between mast cell degranulation and IgE production in athymic rats following infection. Incubation of peritoneal mast cells from athymic rats with anti‐IgE induced dose‐dependent degranulation, as measured by histamine release. However, the failure of mast cells from infected athymic rats to degranulate following incubation with all but one of the parasite antigens selected confirms the absence of a specific IgE response. In contrast, all agonists induced degranulation in euthymic rats. The only parasite‐derived factor to induce histamine release in all mast cells was Ascaris body fluid, which contains an element capable of inducing IgE‐independent degranulation. Furthermore, increased levels of rat mast cell protease II in athymic bronchoalveolar lavage fluid suggest degranulation of mast cells by IgE and allergen independent means in vivo. We believe that the development of eosinophilic lung inflammation in the absence of specific IgE makes this a prototype for investigating the immunological mechanisms underlying nonatopic asthma.
Modulation of murine cellular immune response and cytokine production by salivary gland lysate of three sand fly species
Authors: ROHOUŠOVÁ I. , VOLF P. , LIPOLDOVÁ M.
Published: October 2005

Saliva of sand flies (
Diptera: Phlebotominae
) plays an important role in transmission of Leishmania parasites by modulating host immune response. However, because of the different protein compositions of saliva, the immunomodulatory effects may vary among sand fly species. We have therefore analysed and compared the immunomodulation effects of salivary gland lysate (SGL) of three different sand flies. Spleen cells from BALB/c mice were incubated with SGL of Phlebotomus papatasi, P. sergenti or Lutzomyia longipalpis. Concanavalin A‐stimulated lymphocyte proliferation was significantly suppressed with SGLs of all three sand fly species and all SGL doses tested. This result indicates that saliva from different sand fly species is able to suppress host proliferative response even to the potent mitogen. In parallel experiments, we analysed the effect of SGL on IFN‐γ, IL‐2, and IL‐4 production; in mitogen‐stimulated cells SGLs markedly inhibited IFN‐γ production in all intervals tested (reduced up to 31%) and to a lesser degree impaired production of the other two cytokines as well. Despite some species‐specific differences in the intensity of immunomodulatory effects, saliva of all sand fly species modulated cell proliferation as well as cytokine production in a similar way.
Potential for recombinant Babesia bovis antigens to protect against a highly virulent isolate
Authors: HOPE M. , RIDING G. , MENZIES M. , COLDITZ I. , REVERTER A. , WILLADSEN P.
Published: October 2005

Two antigens from Babesia bovis,12D3 and 11C5, were expressed and purified as recombinant proteins in Escherichia coli and used to vaccinate groups of six Babesia‐susceptible cattle. These were subsequently challenged with a highly virulent strain of B. bovis. All cattle showed symptoms of disease and most required treatment. Cattle vaccination groups receiving either 12D3 or 11C5 or a combination of both, reduced parasitaemia by approximately fourfold and a number of individual animals appeared to control the parasite infection. Control of parasites correlated with high monocyte numbers late in infection. The results thus confirm the potential usefulness of both antigens but also demonstrate the limitations of current formulations.
Ribavirin up‐regulates IL‐12 p40 gene expression and restores IL‐12 levels in Leishmania‐treated PBMCs
Authors: CONTE E. , MODICA A. , CACOPARDO B. , MESSINA L. , NIGRO L. , MESSINA A.
Published: October 2005

Ribavirin, a nucleoside analogue that interferes with viral mRNA synthesis and inhibits the replication of RNA and DNA viruses, has been recently proposed as an effective immune response modulator. In the present report, we studied the effect of ribavirin on IL‐12 p40 gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of healthy subjects. We also studied ribavirin effects on PBMCs activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and treated with Leishmania donovani antigens. We provide evidence that ribavirin was able to up‐regulate IL‐12 p40 gene expression and to restore levels of IL‐12 p40 gene expression and IL‐12 secretion in fully activated PBMCs that were strongly inhibited by L. donovani antigens. Because effective management of leishmanial disease is usually associated with a prevalent T‐helper 1 immune response with elevated production of IL‐12,our preliminary results may be of particular interest, provided that they will be confirmed by further in vitro and in vivo studies, when considering a possible use of ribavirin as adjuvant in severe leishmanial disease.
Kinetics of immunoglobulin G, M, A and IgG subclass responses in experimental intravaginal trichomoniasis: prominence of IgG1 response
Authors: YADAV M. , GUPTA I. , MALLA N.
Published: October 2005

Trichomoniasis, the most common nonviral sexually transmitted disease, is caused by infection with the protist Trichomonas vaginalis. The clinical spectrum varies from an asymptomatic state to mild, moderate or severe symptoms. However, the exact factors leading to varied symptomatology have not been well elucidated. The mouse is a useful experimental model for intravaginal trichomoniasis, for understanding the role of local immune responses in the pathogenesis and varied symptomatology of this disease. The present study reports anti‐Trichomonas IgG, IgM, IgA and IgG subclass antibody responses on different post‐infection days (3rd, 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th) in serum and vaginal washes of mice infected intravaginally with T. vaginalis isolates from 15 symptomatic and 15 asymptomatic women. Successful intravaginal infection was established by inoculating T. vaginalis in BALB/c mice pre‐inoculated with Lactobacillus acidophilus and pretreated with oestradiol. A significant increase in parasite load was observed on the 14th post‐infection day (p.i.d.) in mice inoculated with T. vaginalis isolates from symptomatic women as compared to asymptomatic women (P < 0·001), followed by reduction until the 28th p.i.d. (P < 0·05). A significant increase in specific IgG (P < 0·001) and in particular IgG1 (P < 0·001) and IgM (P < 0·01) responses was observed on the 14th p.i.d. in serum and vaginal washes of mice infected with T. vaginalis isolates from symptomatic women as compared to asymptomatic women. Significant increases in specific IgG, IgM and IgG1 responses was observed on the 14th p.i.d. in serum samples as compared with vaginal washes of mice infected with T. vaginalis isolates from symptomatic and asymptomatic women (P < 0·01), whereas no significant difference was observed in IgA, IgG2a, IgG2b and IgG3 antibody responses. The study indicates that specific IgG, particularly IgG1 and IgM, may be playing a role in establishing symptomatic infection.
Introduction of the carrot HSP17.7 into potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) enhances cellular membrane stability and tuberization in vitro
Authors: AHN YEH‐JIN , ZIMMERMAN J. LYNN
Published: October 2005

We have examined the ability of a carrot (Daucus carota L.) heat shock protein gene encoding HSP17.7 (DcHSP17.7) to confer enhanced heat tolerance to potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), a cool‐season crop. The DcHSP17.7 gene was fused to a 6XHistidine (His) tag to distinguish the engineered protein from endogenous potato proteins and was introduced into the potato cultivar ‘Désirée’ under the control of the cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) 35S promoter. Western analysis showed that engineered DcHSP17.7 was constitutively, but not abundantly, expressed in transgenic potato lines before heat stress. Leaves from multiple regenerated potato lines that contain the transgene exhibited significantly improved cellular membrane stability at high temperatures, compared with wild‐type and vector control plants. Transgenic potato lines also exhibited enhanced tuberization in vitro: under a condition of constant heat stress, at 29 °C, nodal sections of the transgenic lines produced larger and heavier microtubers at higher rates, compared to the wild type and vector controls. The dry weight and percentages of microtubers that were longer than 5 mm were up to three times higher in the transgenic lines. Our results suggest that constitutive expression of carrot HSP17.7 can enhance thermotolerance in transgenic potato plants. To our knowledge, this is the first study that shows that the thermotolerance of potato can be enhanced through gene transfer.
Sanguinarine reductase, a key enzyme of benzophenanthridine detoxification
Authors: WEISS DAGMAR , BAUMERT ALFRED , VOGEL MATTHIAS , ROOS WERNER
Published: October 2005

Cultured cells of Eschscholzia californica respond to a yeast glycoprotein elicitor by producing benzophenanthridine alkaloids, which are excreted into the cell wall and the outer medium. These compounds, preferentially sanguinarine, are efficient phytoalexins because of their ability to intercalate double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA), penetrate membranes and inhibit various enzymes containing SH‐groups. Externally added sanguinarine is rapidly taken up by intact cells and converted to dihydrosanguinarine, which is substituted intracellularly according to the biosynthetic route. A 29.5 kDa soluble enzyme that catalyses the reduction of sanguinarine and chelerythrine by either NADPH or NADH has been isolated and purified to homogeneity. Benzophenanthridines that accumulate in the outer medium, mainly 10‐OH‐chelerythrine, chelirubine and macarpine, are converted by the isolated enzyme and by intact cells at much slower rates than sanguinarine. The cellular capacity of uptake and conversion of sanguinarine largely surpasses the rate of alkaloid production. We conclude that the sanguinarine produced by intact cells, after excretion and binding to cell wall elements, is rapidly reabsorbed and reduced to the less toxic dihydrosanguinarine, which then undergoes further biosynthetic reactions. This recycling process would allow the presence of the toxic phytoalexin at the cellular surface without taking the risk of injuring the producing cell.
Differential synthesis of phosphate‐starvation inducible purple acid phosphatase isozymes in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) suspension cells and seedlings
Authors: BOZZO GALE G. , DUNN EVELYN L. , PLAXTON WILLIAM C.
Published: October 2005

This study compares the influence of phosphate (Pi) deprivation on the coordinate synthesis of the principle Pi‐starvation  inducible  (PSI)  acid  phosphatase  (AP)  isozymes in a suspension cell culture with the homologous in planta system. Tomato suspension cells express three PSI purple AP isozymes: a heterodimeric intracellular AP (IAP) composed of 63 and 57 kDa subunits, and two monomeric secreted APs (SAPs) (84 kDa SAP1 and 57 kDa SAP2) localized in the culture media. Immunoblots probed with rabbit antibodies raised against purified SAP1 or IAP indicated the immunological distinctiveness of SAP1 relative to IAP and SAP2. Time‐course studies of cells and seedlings undergoing a transition from Pi sufficiency to Pi deficiency revealed a close relationship between total IAP or SAP activity and relative amounts of antigenic IAP or SAP polypeptides. Upregulation of the pre‐existing IAP in 6‐day‐old Pi‐deficient (–Pi) suspension cells coincided with a 20‐fold reduction in intracellular free Pi levels, which occurred 2 d prior to initial accumulation of SAP1 and SAP2 in the culture media. Similarly, root‐specific SAP synthesis in –Pi seedlings occurred at least 7 d following IAP induction in roots or shoots. Preferential sequestration of limiting Pi to the leaves of the –Pi seedlings was suggested by the delayed induction of leaf versus root IAP. Our results confirm recent transcript profiling studies suggesting that PSI proteins are subject to both temporal and tissue‐specific syntheses in‐ Pi plants.
Oxidative gating of water channels (aquaporins) in corn roots
Authors: YE QING , STEUDLE ERNST
Published: October 2005

An oxidative gating of water channels (aquaporins: AQPs) was observed in roots of corn seedlings as already found for the green alga Chara corallina. In the presence of 35 m m hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) – a precursor of hydroxyl radicals (*OH) – half times of water flow (as measured with the aid of pressure probes) increased at the level of both entire roots and individual cortical cells by factors of three and nine, respectively. This indicated decreases in the hydrostatic hydraulic conductivity of roots (Lphr) and of cells (Lph) by the same factors. Unlike other stresses, the plant hormone abscisic acid (ABA) had no ameliorative effect either on root Lphr or on cell Lph when AQPs were inhibited by oxidative stress. Closure of AQPs reduced the permeability of acetone by factors of two in roots and 1.5 in cells. This indicated that AQPs were not ideally selective for water but allowed the passage of the organic solute acetone. In the presence of H2O2, channel closure caused anomalous (negative) osmosis at both the root and the cell level. This was interpreted by the fact that in the case of the rapidly permeating solute acetone, channel closure caused the solute to move faster than the water and the reflection coefficient (σs) reversed its sign. When H2O2 was removed from the medium, the effects were reversible, again at both the root and the cell level. The results provide evidence of oxidative gating of AQPs, which leads on to inhibition of water uptake by the roots. Possible mechanisms of the oxidative gating of AQPs induced by H2O2 (*OH) are discussed.
Impact of elevated UV‐B radiation on photosynthetic electron transport, primary productivity and carbon allocation in estuarine epipelic diatoms
Authors: WARING JEN , UNDERWOOD GRAHAM J. C. , BAKER NEIL R.
Published: October 2005

Epipelic diatoms are important components of microphytobenthic biofilms. Cultures of four diatom species (Amphora coffeaeformis, Cylindrotheca closterium, Navicula perminuta and Nitzschia epithemioides) and assemblages of mixed diatom species collected from an estuary were exposed to elevated levels of ultraviolet‐B (UV‐B) radiation. Short exposures to UV‐B resulted in decreases in photosystem II (PSII) photochemistry, photosynthetic electron transport, photosynthetic carbon assimilation and changes in the pattern of allocation of assimilated carbon into soluble colloidal, extracellular polysaccharides (EPS) and glucan pools. The magnitude of the effects of the UV‐B treatments varied between species and was also dependent upon the photosynthetically active photon flux density (PPFD) to which the cells were also exposed, with effects being greater at lower light levels. Both increases in non‐photochemical quenching of excitation energy in the pigment antennae and photodamage to the D1 reaction centres contributed to decreases in PSII photochemistry. All species demonstrated a rapid ability to recover from perturbations of PSII photochemistry, with some species recovering during the UV‐B exposure period. Some of the perturbations induced in carbon metabolism were independent of effects on PSII photochemistry and photosynthetic electron transport. Elevated UV‐B can significantly inhibit photosynthetic performance, and modify carbon metabolism in epipelic diatoms. However, the ecological effects of UV‐B at the community level are difficult to predict as large variations occur between species.
Functional coordination between leaf gas exchange and vulnerability to xylem cavitation in temperate forest trees
Authors: MAHERALI HAFIZ , MOURA CATARINA F. , CALDEIRA MARIA C. , WILLSON CYNTHIA J. , JACKSON ROBERT B.
Published: October 2005

We examined functional coordination among stem and root vulnerability to xylem cavitation, plant water transport characteristics and leaf traits in 14 co‐occurring temperate tree species. Relationships were evaluated using both traditional cross‐species correlations and phylogenetically independent contrast (PIC) correlations. For stems, the xylem tension at which 50% of hydraulic conductivity was lost (Ψ50) was positively associated (P < 0.001) with specific conductivity (KS) and with mean hydraulically weighted xylem conduit diameter (Dh‐w), but was only marginally (P = 0.06) associated with leaf specific conductivity (KL). The PIC correlation for each of these relationships, however, was not statistically significant. There was also no relationship between rootΨ50and rootKSin either cross‐species or PIC analysis. Photosynthetic rate (A) and stomatal conductance (gs) were strongly and positively correlated with rootΨ50in the cross‐species analysis (P < 0.001), a relationship that was robust to phylogenetic correction (P < 0.01).Aandgswere also positively correlated with stemΨ50in the cross‐species analysis (P = 0.02 and 0.10, respectively). However, onlyAwas associated with stemΨ50in the PIC analysis (P = 0.04). Although the relationship between vulnerability to cavitation and xylem conductivity traits within specific organs (i.e. stems and roots) was weak, the strong correlation betweengsand rootΨ50across species suggests that there is a trade‐off between vulnerability to cavitation and water transport capacity at the whole‐plant level. Our results were therefore consistent with the expectation of coordination between vulnerability to xylem cavitation and the regulation of stomatal conductance, and highlight the potential physiological and evolutionary significance of root hydraulic properties in controlling interspecific variation in leaf function.
ABO incompatible kidney transplantation – an analysis of UNOS Registry data
Authors: Futagawa Yasuro , Terasaki Paul I
Published: October 2005

Abstract:  Background:  The ABO incompatible kidney transplants have been performed successfully from large numbers of living donors and some blood type A2 deceased donors. However, there are few reports to support the feasibility of ABO incompatible transplants from non‐A2 deceased donors. This problem was examined in the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) data file.

Patients and methods:  The UNOS Registry data of kidney transplants performed between 1995 and 2003 from 256 centers was utilized for Kaplan–Meier curves and log‐rank tests to compare graft and functional graft survival rates.

Results:  Deceased donor transplants from all ABO incompatible donors had the same graft survival rates, as that from ABO compatible donors regardless of whether the blood group incompatibility was A (A1), A2 or B. Graft survival from 201 ABO incompatible donors was 66.9% at 5 yr, compared with 66.7% for ABO compatible donors (p = 0.83). Non‐A2 incompatible donors also yielded comparable survival rates to ABO compatible donors. From living donors, ABO incompatible donors yielded significantly lower graft survival rates than the ABO compatible group, although long‐term graft survival rates of those who survived >1 yr did not differ significantly.

Conclusion:  Except higher initial graft loss possibility because of insufficient removal of antibodies, non‐A2 kidneys yielded equivalent graft survival rates to ABO compatible transplants. In addition to A2 incompatibilities, Blood group A1 and B incompatibilities can also be considered in ABO incompatible transplants.
Four cases of Candida albicans infections with isolates developing pink colonies on CHROMagar Candida plates
Authors: Saunte D. M. , Klingspor L. , Jalal S. , Arnau J. , Arendrup M. C.
Published: October 2005

Candida albicans, the most commonly isolated yeast species, is typically identified by its green colony‐colour on CHROMagar Candida plates. We here report four cases of Candida albicans infections, in which the initial identification was non‐albicans isolates due to a clear pink colour of the colonies on CHROMagar Candida plates. However, classical phenotypic criteria, biochemical assimilation pattern and molecular characterisation identified all four isolates as C. albicans isolates.
Majocchi's granuloma of the vulva caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes
Authors: Chang S. E. , Lee D. K. , Choi J. H. , Moon K. C. , Koh J. K.
Published: October 2005

We report a case of Majocchi's granuloma caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes on the vulva in a 23‐year‐old girl who had used topical steroids for many years. Her dog was a source of the infection.
Invasive chromoblastomycosis and sinusitis due to Phialophora verrucosa in a child from northern Africa
Authors: Hofmann H. , Choi S.‐M. , Wilsmann‐Theis D. , Horré R. , de Hoog G. S. , Bieber T.
Published: October 2005

We report on a severe, verrucous facial mycosis and sinusitis in a 12‐year‐old Libyan girl. Her disease started with verrucous, hyperkeratotic plaques and subcutaneous violet nodules of unknown origin on her face and upper extremities. Despite topical antimycotic therapy she needed in‐hospital treatment because of severely progressive tumorous cutaneous and nasal lesions. Microscopic examination of scale samples taken from the upper extremities and the face revealed brown, thick‐walled fungal elements. Under the assumption of a chromoblastomycosis, an oral treatment with itraconazole and fluorocytosin was initiated, with significant improvement of the lesions. The aetiological agent was identified as Phialophora verrucosa.
The causative pathogens of onychomycosis in southern Taiwan
Authors: Chi Ching‐Chi , Wang Shu‐Hui , Chou Ming‐Chih
Published: October 2005

Selecting an appropriate antimycotic targeting the pathogens are among the most important factors for successfully treating onychomycosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the pathogens of onychomycosis in southern Taiwan and analyse the association between various factors and the distribution of pathogens. A total of 375 patients with onychomycosis were enrolled. Histopathological examination and fungus culture of nail specimens were performed. The pathogens were dermatophytes in 227 patients (60.5%),Candidain 118 (31.5%) and moulds in 30 (8%). Compared to patients with toenail involvement, the odds ratio (OR) for those with fingernail involvement to have non‐dermatophytic onychomycosis (NDO), i.e. onychomycosis caused byCandidaand moulds, was 5.04 [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.21–11.15], and the OR for those with fingernail and toenail involvement to have NDO was 2.66 (95% CI: 1.61–4.34). The F/M OR to have NDO was 2.36 (95% CI: 1.51–3.61), and 9.80 for diabetics (95% CI: 1.01–106.85). The OR for patients with paronychia to have NDO was 10.33 (95% CI: 5.61–18.88) compared to those without paronychia. Compared to patients with a non‐wet occupation, the OR for those with a wet occupation to have NDO was 4.76 (95% CI: 2.01–11.16). The distribution of pathogens significantly varies with the involved sites, patients’ gender and occupation, and presence of diabetes mellitus or paronychia. In contrast to temperate western countries, NDO is more prevalent in the tropics and subtropics including southern Taiwan.
Isolation of Cryptococcus species including C. neoformans from cloaca of pigeons
Authors: Rosario I. , Hermoso de Mendoza M. , Déniz S. , Soro G. , Álamo I. , Acosta B.
Published: October 2005

Upper digestive tract of the pigeon (Columba livia) is well known as a reservoir for different species of Cryptococcus, but lower portions are not so frequently studied. In the present study, we tested on selective media a total of 331 pigeon cloacal swabs; Cryptococcus spp. were recovered from 26 (7.85%). Cryptococcus uniguttulatus was isolated from 11 samples (3.32%), C. laurentii from six (1.81%), C. neoformans var. neoformans from six (1.81%) and C. albidus from three of them (0.91%). The results show the importance of pigeon in the cryptococcosis epidemiology as reservoir and carrier for C. neoformans var. neoformans, but also for other Cryptococcus species of increasing clinical interest.
Susceptibility to antifungal agents of Candida species isolated from paediatric and adult patients with haematological diseases
Authors: Nawrot U. , Nowicka J. , Juszczak K. , Gusin B.
Published: October 2005

The susceptibility to six antifungals: amphotericin B (AMF), 5‐fluorocytosine (5‐F), miconazole (MIK), ketoconazole (KET), fluconazole (FLU) and itraconazole (ITR) was tested among 206 Candida spp. isolated from paediatric and adult patients with haematological malignancies. To determinate the susceptibility the commercial microdilution method Fungitest® (Bio‐Rad, France) was used. The strains were classified as susceptible, intermediate susceptible, or resistant on the base of the growth in following breakpoint concentrations of particular drugs: 2 and 8 μg ml−1 for AMF, 2 and 32 μg ml−1 for 5‐F, 0.5 and 8 μg ml−1 for MIK, 0.5 and 4 μg ml−1 for KET and ITR, and 8 and 64 μg ml−1 for FLU. The highest activity to overall species showed AMF (only one resistant strain) and 5‐F (85% susceptible strains). Most of C. albicans isolates were susceptible to tested azoles. The percentages of C. albicans resistant to FLU, ITR, KET and MIK were 4, 11, 8, and 0.8%, respectively. The less susceptible to azoles were C. glabrata and C. krusei (14% and 44% isolates resistant to FLU). A non‐albicans Candida isolated from adult patients receiving KET prophylaxis was more frequently resistant to FLU than isolates from patients without previous exposure to azoles (P < 0.05). We did not observe differences in the susceptibility of Candida strains isolated from children compared with those from adults.
Posaconazole therapy for systemic coccidioidomycosis in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes): a case report
Authors: Herrin Kimberly Vinette , Miranda Abraham , Loebenberg David
Published: October 2005

Systemic coccidioidomycosis was diagnosed in a 4‐year‐old male chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) with ascites and failure to thrive. Physical examination, laboratory and radiological studies, and exploratory laparotomy showed signs of systemic fungal infection that included penetration into the central nervous system (CNS). Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) titres, along with ascites cytology findings, confirmed the presence of Coccidioides immitis. However, the organism could not be cultured from the CSF. Treatment with fluconazole 10 mg kg−1 daily for 6 months was not associated with clinical improvement. Subsequent treatment with posaconazole 50 mg kg−1 daily for approximately 24 months resulted in negative serum titres and improved clinical status. Illness not directly related to the C. immitis infection caused the chimpanzee's deterioration and eventual killing. Histological examination performed during necropsy provided no evidence of coccidioidomycosis; however, a positive C. immitis serum antibody titre was noted. The successful suppression of coccidioidomycosis observed in this chimpanzee suggests that posaconazole may have a role in the treatment of CNS infections caused by susceptible fungi.
A case of pityriasis versicolor atrophicans
Authors: Romano C. , Maritati E. , Ghilardi A. , Miracco C. , Mancianti F.
Published: October 2005

A case of pityriasis versicolor atrophicans caused by Malassezia globosa is reported in a 49‐year‐old woman. Diagnosis was based on direct microscopic examination and culture. Differential diagnosis was performed with respect to other skin diseases manifesting with cutaneous atrophy.