bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milk Leucocyte Population Patterns in Bovine Udder Infection of Different Aetiology
Authors: Leitner G. , Shoshani E. , Krifucks O. , Chaffer M. , Saran A.
Published: March 2003

This study compared the different leucocyte populations in milk from udders infected with different mastitic pathogens and in different stages of infection. Milk samples were collected from quarters free of intramammary infection, acutely infected withEscherichia coliorStaphylococcus aureusand chronically infected withS. aureus, coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CNS) orStreptococcus dysgalactiae. Udder bacteriological status was confirmed after three consecutive bacteriological examinations from weekly quarter milk samples. At the time of the trial, milk samples were tested for somatic cell count (SCC) and differential cell count by both light microscopy (LM) and flow cytometry. Monoclonal antibody (mAb) CD11a/CD18 was used in order to differentiate between leucocytes and epithelial cells when tested by flow cytometry. Udder quarters free of intramammary infection had a mean SCC lower than 107 × 103cells/ml in which the epithelial cells were the main cell type followed by polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs), while macrophages and lymphocytes had a lower concentration. Only 56 % of the cells were labelled with the mAb anti‐CD11a/CD18. In either acuteE. coli‐ orS. aureus‐ infected quarters, SCC were significantly higher (P < 0.0001) than in samples from the time of inoculation, with over 90 % of the cells labelled with the mAb anti‐CD11a/CD18. The main cell type was neutrophils. In chronically infected cows, differences in SCC and in leucocyte patterns were found between infecting pathogens as well as between quarters harbouring the same pathogen. In all the chronically infected quarters, SCC was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than in uninfected ones. The distribution of the leucocyte patterns in the quarters infected withS. dysgalactiaedid not differ from that in quarters with acute infection with bothE. coliandS. aureus. In the cows chronically infected withS. aureusor CNS, the proportion of PMN was higher but not significantly different from quarters free of intramammary infection, while epithelial cells were significantly lower (P < 0.05). The T lymphocytes bearing CD4+or CD8+were significantly higher in quarters chronically infected withS. aureusthan in quarters free of intramammary infection and in quarters acutely infected with eitherE. coliorS. aureus. In all samples B cells were negligible.
Changes in Lymphocyte Subsets in the Bronchus‐associated Lymphoid Tissue of Goats Naturally Infected with Different Mycoplasma Species
Authors: Rodríguez F. , Fernández A. , Orós J. , Ramírez A. S. , Luque R. , Ball H. J. , Sarradell J.
Published: March 2003

The distribution of cells containing lysozyme, S‐100 protein, CD3, CD4, CD8, major histocompatibility complex class II antigen and immunoglobulin G (IgG) was analysed in the bronchus‐associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) of goats naturally infected with three Mycoplasma species. This study included the immunohistochemical characterization of the pneumonic lesions of 18 goats (3–5 months old) infected with one of the following Mycoplasma species: M. mycoides ssp. mycoides, Large Colony type (goats no. 1–6), M. mycoides ssp. capri (goats no. 7–12) and M. capricolum ssp. capricolum (goats no. 13–18). Microscopically, infected animals showed a moderate bronchointerstitial pneumonia, characterized by lymphoid hyperplasia of the BALT and infiltration of mononuclear cells in the alveolar walls and airways. The main cellular type in the BALT was represented by CD3+ T lymphocytes, and the ratio of CD4+:CD8+ cells was >2. The BALT showed large germinal centres mainly composed of IgG+ B lymphocytes, with numerous S‐100+ follicular dendritic cells. The presence of follicular dendritic cells confirmed the high degree of organization of this lymphoid tissue. The immunohistochemical results showed that activated T lymphocytes, particularly in the CD4 subset, and IgG+ B cells, play a major role in the immune response of the caprine lung infected with these species of mycoplasmas.
Detection of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli in Meat Foods using DNA Probes, Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Alexandre M. , Prado V. , Ulloa M. T. , Arellano C. , Rios M.
Published: March 2003

Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) is an important cause of diarrhoea with blood and haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in children and elderly people. Infections with EHEC are a world‐wide public health problem, related to consumption of contaminated ground beef. The aim of this study was to establish whether different meat foods sold in Santiago, Chile pose an infection risk by EHEC and to evaluate three different diagnostic techniques in foods, to determine which is most applicable for use in Chile. A parallel analysis was performed on 64 samples of meat foods (23 refrigerated ground meat, 23 refrigerated long pork sausages and 18 frozen hamburgers) sold in Santiago, Chile using DNA probes, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Twenty‐four samples (24 of 64=37.5 %) were positive by DNA probes, ELISA or PCR. The positive and negative predictive values, sensitivity and specificity of ELISA were 26.7, 81.6, 30.8 and 78.4 %, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values, sensitivity and specificity of PCR were 91.7, 96.2, 84.6 and 98 %, respectively. The EHEC serogroups most frequently isolated were O158, O157, O119, O125 and O114. These results show that, although molecular techniques such as enzyme immunoassays are useful for EHEC detection in meat foods, PCR has advantages in terms of sensitivity, specificity, cost and ease of implementation in Chile.
Epidemiological Relationship of Human and Swine Streptococcus suis Isolates
Authors: Tarradas C. , Luque I. , De Andrés D. , Shahein Y. E. Abdel‐Aziz , Pons P. , González F. , Borge C. , Perea A.
Published: March 2003

Two cases of meningitis due to Streptococcus suis in humans are reported here. A butcher and an abattoir worker were referred to a health centre in Castellón (Spain) with fever and symptoms of meningitis. After adequate treatment, a slight hipoacusia persisted as sequelae in both cases. Colonies of S. suis group R, serotype 2 and phenotype MRP+EF+ were isolated from cerebroespinal fluid. Epidemiological studies showed that both workers had in common the handling of pork meat of slaughtered healthy pigs from three closed farms. A study of the tonsils from apparently healthy, slaughtered pigs was carried out. A total of 234 tonsillar samples were obtained and 81 strains of S. suis were isolated from them. Serotype 2 appeared to be the most frequent (50.6 %), and the analysis for phenotype showed a high percentage of tonsillar strains with the phenotype MRP+EF+ (35.9 %). The humans and 28 tonsillar swine strains showed a similar profile (S. suis group R, serotype 2 and phenotype MRP+EF+). A total of 26 of the swine isolates were analysed by ribotyping using EcoRI. The human strains showed the same six‐band hybridization pattern that shared five bands with the pattern most frequently shown by most of the tonsillar S. suis group R, serotype 2 and phenotype MRP+EF+ strains, differing only in the lightest, faintest band which was slightly less anodical in human (≥ 1.8 kb) than in swine (≈1.8 kb). From these results, both groups of strains, humans and porcine, showed differences; how can these differences in the pattern of ribotyping be explained if they should have the same origin? Is it possible that they have undergone an adaptation to the new host or perhaps the modification is due to other unknown causes? Further studies in this area are required in order to answer these questions.
Fatal Gastrointestinal Infection with ‘Flexispira rappini’‐Like Organisms in a Cat
Authors: Kipar A. , Weber M. , Menger S. , Harmsen D.
Published: March 2003

A 4‐month‐old male British Blue cat with catarrhal to haemorrhagic enteritis showed massive colonization of the stomach, small intestine and caecum with spiral‐shaped bacilli. In the stomach, organisms were located in foveolae and gland lumina and within unaltered and degenerate epithelial cells. Inflammatory infiltration was moderate and T cell dominated. In the intestine, bacilli were found in the gut lumen, between villi, in crypt lumina and within epithelial cells. Degeneration of crypt epithelial cells as well as crypt dilation and moderate to massive macrophage‐dominated infiltration of the mucosa and submucosa were observed. Immunohistochemically, bacilli were positive with an antibody against Helicobacter. Ultrastructurally, the organisms strongly resembled ‘Flexispira rappini’, a spiral‐shaped Helicobacter species known as a normal intestinal colonizer in dogs and mice.
Prevalence of and Resistance to Anti‐Microbial Drugs in Selected Microbial Species Isolated from Bulk Milk Samples
Authors: SCHLEGELOVÁ J. , BABÁK V. , KLÍMOVÁ E. , LUKÁŠOVÁ J. , NAVRÁTILOVÁ P. , ŠUSTÁČKOVÁ A. , ŠEDIVÁ I. , RYŠÁNEK D.
Published: March 2003

The prevalence of strains ofStaphylococcus aureus, coagulase‐negative (CN) staphylococci,Listeria monocytogenes,Escherichia coli,Enterococcus faecalis,E. faeciumandBacillus cereus, was investigated in 111 bulk milk samples.Staphylococcus aureuswas isolated from 38 samples, CN staphylococci from 63 samples,E. colifrom 49 samples,E. faecalisorE. faeciumfrom 107 samples, andL. monocytogenesfrom two samples.Bacillus cereuswas not found in any of the samples and three samples were free of any of the selected species. Sensitivity to the anti‐microbial drugs amikacin, ampicillin, ampicillin + sulbactam, cephalothin (CLT), cephotaxime, clindamycin, chloramphenicol (CMP), co‐trimoxazole, erythromycin (ERY), gentamicin, neomycin, norfloxacin, oxacillin, penicillin, streptomycin (STR), tetracycline (TTC) and vancomycin was tested using the standard dilution technique. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) characteristics (MIC50, MIC90, MIC range) were determined for each microbial species. Resistance against one or more anti‐microbial drugs was found in 93% ofS. aureus, 40% of CN staphylococci, 73% ofE. coli, 88% ofE. faecalis, 55% ofE. faecium, and oneL. monocytogenesstrain. Most of the strains, particularly enterococci, were resistant to STR, TTC, and ERY (MIC504 μg/ml). A high percentage of staphylococci were resistant to β‐lactam antibiotics. High resistance to CLT was found in 11 strains ofE. coli(MIC 256 μg/ml) and strains resistant to CMP (MIC9016 μg/ml) were detected. The highest numbers of resistance phenotypes were found inE. coli(16) and CN staphylococci (12). Eighteen identical resistance phenotypes were demonstrated in indicator bacteria (E. coli,E. faecalis,E. faecium) and pathogens (S. aureus, CN staphylococci) isolated from the same bulk milk sample. The obtained resistance data were matched against the herd owners' information on therapeutic use of the drugs. This confrontation could not explain the findings of strains resistant to ERY or CMP. Our findings are evidence of selection of resistant strains among not only pathogenic agents, but also among indicator bacteria which can become significant carriers of transmissible resistance genes.
Bacterial Flora in Foals with Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Poland
Authors: Boguta L. , Gradzki Z. , Borges E. , Maurin F. , Kodjo A. , Winiarczyk S.
Published: March 2003

Bacteria isolated from nasal cavity of 80 foals with upper respiratory tract infection, as well as from 20 healthy foals, were examined. Within the group of sick animals, from 18 (22.5%) bacteria with recognized pathogenicity were isolated. Coagulase‐negative staphylococci andAcinetobactersp. were the dominant species identified (100 and 45%, respectively). No bacteria species with recognized pathogenicity were isolated from the group of healthy animals. Three cases of death within the group of sick foals were investigated.Rhodococcus equiin two cases andKlebsiella pneumoniae pneumoniaetogether withEscherichia coliwere isolated post‐mortem from lung abscesses.
Comparative Pharmacokinetics of Enrofloxacin and Tissue Concentrations of Parent Drug and Ciprofloxacin after Intramuscular Administrations of Free and Liposome‐Encapsulated Enrofloxacin in Rabbits
Authors: Elmas M. , Yazar E. , Baş A. L. , Traş B. , Bayezi̇t M. , Yapar K.
Published: March 2003

Pharmacokinetic properties and tissue concentrations of enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin were compared after intramuscular (i.m.) administrations of free and liposome‐encapsulated enrofloxacin at the dose of 5 mg/kg body weight (bw). Twelve healthy adult New Zealand white rabbits were used in the experiment. Blood samples were obtained at 10, 20, 40, 60 and 90 min and 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 h and tissue samples were collected 24 h after injection. Concentrations of drugs in serum were determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography. Pharmacokinetics were best described by a two‐compartment open model. Results indicated that absorption rate was slow, peak concentration was higher (P < 0.05), and the time to peak concentration (tmax ≅ 1.5 h) was significantly longer (P < 0.05) for liposome‐encapsulated enrofloxacin (LEE) when compared with free enrofloxacin. Values of elimination half‐life (t1/2β = 12.9 h) and mean residence time (MRT = 17.6 h) of liposome‐encapsulated enrofloxacin were longer (P < 0.05) and total clearance (Cl = 0.43 l/h/kg) was lower than those of free form. Moreover, the distribution volume at steady‐state (Vd(ss) = 14.4 l/kg) of enrofloxacin administered encapsulated into liposomes was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of free enrofloxacin (FE). The tissue levels of enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin after LEE injection were not different (P > 0.05) from FE. In conclusion, the result of present study suggest that LEE may be a beneficial and valuable formulation in the treatment of infectious diseases caused by sensitive pathogens in animals, providing sustained drug release from injection side and prolonged therapeutic serum concentrations after i.m. administration.
Effects of Subminimal Inhibitory Concentrations of Amoxicillin againstActinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Tanigawa M. , Sawada T.
Published: March 2003

The bactericidal effects of amoxicillin at below minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) againstActinobacillus pleuropneumoniaeNB001 were studiedin vitroandin vivo.In vivo, the efficacy of amoxicillin on experimentally inducedA. pleuropneumoniaeinfection in disease‐free pigs was evaluated. Nine pigs were divided into three groups and all three groups were housed in the same room. Group I pigs were given long‐acting amoxicillin injection 22 h prior toA. pleuropneumoniaechallenge. Group II pigs were alsoA. pleuropneumoniaechallenged but not given long‐acting amoxicillin. Group III pigs were not treated.In vitro, A. pleuropneumoniaegrowth was suppressed in porcine blood with amoxicillin at below MIC.In vivo, clinical signs of disease were absent or mild in group I during 50 h post‐challenge, and serum amoxicillin concentration was already less than MIC from 15 h post‐challenge. Infected group II controls were severely affected by the infection, and mortality reached 100% within 50 h post‐challenge. All non‐treated pigs in group III became infected with NB001 from infected control pigs, and they displayed severe clinical signs of disease within 24 h post‐challenge of groups I and II, and died within 50 h post‐challenge of groups I and II.
Incidence of Salmonellae in Captive and Wild Free‐Living Raptorial Birds in Central Spain
Authors: Reche M. P. , Jiménez P. A. , Alvarez F. , García de los Ríos J. E. , Rojas A. M. , De Pedro P.
Published: March 2003

A total of 595 faecal samples from raptorial birds, either captive or free‐living, residing in GREFA Wildlife Hospital were bacteriologically examined using various selective media and an Automated Diagnostic Assay System for Salmonella detection. Serotype and phage type of the strains identified as Salmonella was determined. In the captive group, of the 285 samples examined, 21 (7.36%) were positive for Salmonella. Serotyping revealed that most of the individuals were infected by Salmonella serotype Havana. This result suggested that there could be a source of contamination in the Hospital although it could not be established. In the wild free‐living group, over 310 samples examined (4.19%) were positive for Salmonella. The Salmonella isolates showed a major variety of serotypes: Enteritidis, Adelaide, Brandenburg, Newport, Typhimurium, Hadar, Saintpaul and Virchow. Most of them are similar to those commonly described in isolates from human and domestic animals. These results indicate that wild birds could be involved in the dissemination of Salmonella in humans or domestic animals or vice versa.
What Determines the Distribution of Coastal Hydrobiid Mudsnails Within North‐Western Europe?
Authors: Barnes R. S. K.
Published: March 2003

The three north‐west European species ofHydrobiaare often partially segregated along salinity gradients and/or sympatric in the nontidal eastern Danish waters and Baltic Sea, but are rarely sympatric and are confined either to nontidal coastal lagoons (Hydrobia ventrosaandHydrobia neglecta) or to the marine/estuarine intertidal zone (Hydrobia ulvae) along the macrotidal Atlantic and North Sea coasts. Significant interspecific competition has been found in Danish waters but not elsewhere in the Atlantic and North‐Sea Europe. The two nontidal species andH. ulvaealso possess contrasting reproductive strategies. The roles of life‐history strategy, interspecific competition and between‐habitat dispersal in restricting these mudsnails to their differing habitats are evaluated in the light of these and other findings. It is concluded that all are likely to be relevant, especially dispersal in maintaining and interspecific competition in opposing, mixed populations in the Kattegat‐Baltic, and life‐history strategy in maintaining the lagoonal versus intertidal dichotomy in the rest of north‐west Europe. This dichotomy prevents segregation of species along common salinity gradients outside the Baltic region and restricts potential interspecific competition to within lagoons, whereH. ulvaeis at a recruitment disadvantage.
Heavy Metal Contents in Soft‐Bottom Marine Macrophytes and Sediments Along the Mediterranean Coast of Spain
Authors: Sanchiz Carles , M. García‐Carrascosa Antonio , Pastor Augustin
Published: March 2003

Abstract. Hg, Cd, Pb and Zn concentrations were determined in sediment and in tissues of five species of soft‐bottom marine macrophytes (Posidonia oceanica, Cymodocea nodosa, Zostera noltii, Ruppia cirrhosa and Caulerpa prolifera) along the Spanish Mediterranean coast. Levels of metals were low in most of the sampling stations and similar to those found by other authors in uncontaminated zones. Certain locations, however, showed some degree of contamination (Cambrils, Almassora, Alacant, Mar Menor and El Portús). In Santa Pola we found high contents of metals in one sample of sediment due to the high proportion of the fine fraction (particules < 63µm) and organic matter, but not in the seagrass species. Mercury and zinc concentrations in the sediment are correlated to those in at least some anatomic fractions of Posidonia oceanica, Cymodocea nodosa and Caulerpa prolifera, suggesting that these species reflect the levels of these metals in the environment. Lead contents in the alga Caulerpa prolifera are also correlated to those in the sediment, while no significant correlations were obtained for cadmium. Among the species studied, Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa seem to be better biomonitors than Caulerpa prolifera.
Musculature of Gnathostomula armata Riedl 1971 and Its Ecological Significance
Authors: Tyler Seth , Hooge Matthew D.
Published: March 2003

Abstract. When stained with a phalloidin‐linked fluorescent marker and viewed with confocal scanning laser microscopy, the musculature of the gnathostomulid Gnathostomula armataRiedl 1971 can be seen to be dominated by longitudinal fibers and to have circular fibers only in the posterior half of the body, not the anterior half. Such an arrangement can be related to the animal’s ability to move through the small pore spaces in its environment, namely fine‐grained, poorly sorted sediments. The circular muscles may be used to push the anterior body half through restricting spaces, and the longitudinal elements may then pull the rest of the body through. Pharynx muscles visible in such preparations are positioned to move the cuticularized mouthparts in ways appropriate to scraping and grasping the bacteria and fungal hyphae on which gnathostomulids are believed to feed. Two arcs of muscles can protract and tilt the basal plate in scraping motions, and a pair of large diductor muscles on the jaws could open it against a spring‐like closing mechanism, while two pairs of muscles at either end of the jaws could tilt them inward in a pulling motion. The rest of the pharynx comprises a bulb of strong muscles arranged to compress its lumen.
The Role of Stem Cell Strategies in Coping with Environmental Stress and Choosing Between Alternative Reproductive Modes: Turbellaria Rely on a Single Cell Type to Maintain ­Individual Life and Propagate Species
Authors: Peter Roland , Ladurner Peter , Rieger Reinhard M.
Published: March 2003

Abstract. To contribute to a better understanding of the interrelationships of different forms of asexual and sexual reproduction in the Turbellaria, three selected species were studied with respect to the cellular correlates underlying the diverse reproductive strategies. The exclusively asexual freshwater triclad Dugesia tahitiensis holds the top position in regenerative and fissioning capacities within the Tricladida and, in addition, has the most neoblasts (stem or regenerative cells) known within this taxon. A reproductive rate of roughly one new specimen originating from a parent animal every third day at optimal experimental conditions correlated well with the speed of head regeneration ranging from 43 to 59 h at 23 °C. The process of fission (architomy) was observed and its dependence on population density and melatonin content was studied. In two new marine representatives of the Macrostomorpha from the Adriatic Sea, the distribution of neoblasts in the body and their fate during regeneration were traced by a recently developed labelling method with 5‐bromo‐2’‐deoxyuridine. In Macrostomum, a sexual species with poor regenerative potential, the proliferating cells were localized predominantly along the nerve cords and migrated to their final location after mitosis. Microstomum n. sp., with asexual reproduction, showed a less concentrated pattern of proliferating stem cells, being localized in the future areas of organ primordia forming before fission in the process of paratomy. The findings are discussed with respect to cell biological, ecological and evolutionary implications.
The Contribution of Secondary Space to Benthic Taxon Richness of a Coral Reef: Colonisation of Dendrostrea frons (Mollusca)
Authors: Barnes David K. A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract. The reef‐dwelling oyster Dendrostrea frons occupied only a small proportion of space in coral reefs of the Quirimba Archipelago, Mozambique, but supported a disproportionately high variety of taxa. Assemblages on primary (substratum), secondary (dead coral heads) and ephemeral secondary space (D. frons shells) of similar area were compared across 5 depths (5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 m) and at four taxonomic levels (species, genus, class and phylum). Differences between the taxonomic richness of each type of space differed with both taxonomic level considered and depth. Of the three categories of space considered, ephemeral secondary space had the most taxa at all levels with the maximum at 10 – 15 m. Despite being small in space and time, animal externa, such as shells of D. frons, may provide important niches for particular organisms at many taxonomic levels.
Metabolic Levels and Microhabitat of an Interstitial Cephalocarid and Micro‐Isopod
Authors: Schiemer Fritz , Ott Jörg
Published: March 2003

Abstract.Oxygen consumption rates were assessed for two meiobenthic crustaceans inhabiting a subtidal sandflat at Carrie Bow Cay, Barrier Reef of Belize. The micro‐isopodMicrocharon sabulumKensley 1984was confined to the surface substrate layers.Lightiella incisaGooding 1963(Cephalocarida) occurred in deeper substrate strata below the redox potential discontinuity layer.  Respiration rates were measured using the “Stoppered Cartesian Diver” method at norm­oxic conditions. The aim was to obtain information on the metabolic level of a representative of the conservative crustacean taxon, the Cephalocarida, and to check whether the hypothesis of lower metabolic levels in benthic animals occurring in anoxic sediment strata is also applicable for this group. The results obtained show that the weight‐specific and weight‐scaled respiration rates inLightiellaare in the same range as the values obtained forMicrocharon. This indicates that under normoxic conditions no “capacity” adaptation in the form of a controlled lower metabolic rate occurs inLightiella. This is in contrast to the situation in nematodes and gnathostomulids living in or below the redox potential discontinuity layer.
PCR and other non‐culture methods for diagnosis of invasiveCandidainfections in allogeneic bone marrow and solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Chryssanthou  , Klingspor  , Tollemar  , Petrini  , Larsson  , Christensson  , Ringdén
Published: March 2003

In this prospective study 197 serum and 152 urine samples were collected from 40 bone marrow and solid organ transplant recipients with clinically suspected invasive fungal infection before, during and after empirical treatment with lipid formulation of amphotericin B or fluconazole. Serum was analysed byCandidapolymerase chain reaction (PCR) and urine by measurement of d/l‐arabinitol ratio. One serum from each patient was also tested for concentration of (1→3)‐β‐glucan and two commercialCandidaantigens. Invasive fungal infection was diagnosed in four candidosis and one aspergillosis patients (13%). Positive PCR, elevated d/l‐arabinitol ratio, (1→3)‐β‐glucan concentration and antigens were detected in nine, 15, 17, and seven patients, respectively. The agreement between PCR and d/l‐arabinitol assays was poor. However, 56% agreement was observed between positive PCR and β‐glucan and/or antigen assays, and 60% agreement between positive d/l‐arabinitol and β‐glucan and/or antigen assays. Combination of several non‐culture assays is needed to diagnose invasive fungal infection in high‐risk transplant recipients. No single test was sufficient for diagnosis.
Case Report: Cutaneous penicilliosis due to Penicillium chrysogenum
Authors: López‐Martínez  , Neumann  , González‐Mendoza
Published: March 2003

A case of cutaneous penicilliosis in a young man, without immunological compromise is reported. The lesions in the neck were characterized by two exudative reddish‐purple pruriginous and painless spots. Penicilliosis was diagnosed after serial laboratory studies based on the observation of hyphae by direct microscopic examination and histopathology. Cultures of the tissue obtained from the lesions, developed mould colonies with typical conidia of Penicillium chrysogenum, which was thermotolerant at 37 °C. The treatment with itraconazole was successful, and 15 days after cessation of therapy, no recurrence of infection was observed. The epidemiology of this type of mycosis is commented upon, as well as the rarity of infections produced by Penicillium, even as opportunistic pathogens. The isolation of P. chrysogenum from skin lesions is exceptional.
Breakthrough invasive fungal infections in neutropenic patients after prophylaxis with itraconazole
Authors: Glasmacher A. , Hahn C. , Leutner C. , Molitor E. , Wardelmann E. , Losem C. , Sauerbruch T. , Marklein G. , Schmidt‐Wolf I. G. H.
Published: March 2003

This study analyses invasive fungal infections in neutropenic patients with haematological malignancies during antifungal prophylaxis with itraconazole. From September 1994 to December 1998 20 patients developed fungal infections. Two patients suffered from disseminated infections by yeasts and 18 patients suffered from pulmonary infections by moulds (eight proven, 10 highly probable in high‐resolution CT scans). In these patients the itraconazole trough concentrations exceeded 500 ng ml−1 (measured by high performance liquid chromatography) significantly less often (median 48%, interquartile range 0–100%) than in another group of 150 leukaemia patients without invasive fungal infections who received 287 courses of prophylaxis with itraconazole at our institution (median 100%, interquartile range 38–100%, P=0.039). Twelve patients died, six of these had refractory disease. Patients with fatal invasive fungal infections had lower median itraconazole concentrations immediately before occurrence of the infection than patients with non‐fatal infections: 120 (0–478) ng ml−1 versus 690 (305–1908) ng ml−1 (P=0.039). In conclusion, this analysis of breakthrough invasive fungal infections during prophylaxis with itraconazole demonstrates that patients with itraconazole trough concentrations below 500 ng ml−1 were significantly more likely to develop fungal infections and that the last itraconazole trough concentration before occurrence of the infection was significantly lower in patients with fatal invasive fungal infections.
Case Reports. Pityriasis amiantacea as manifestation of tinea capitis due to Microsporum canis
Authors: Ginarte  , Pereiro Jr  , Fernández‐Redondo Virginia , Toribio Jaime
Published: March 2003

We report three patients, two infants and an adult, in whom their tinea capitis clinically appeared as pityriasis amiantacea. The mycological studies showed infection due to Microsporum canis in all cases. Correct diagnosis as well as adequate antimycotic chemotherapy of this atypical manifestation of tinea capitis remain a challenge to the clinician. Epidemiological aspects must be regarded also.
Antifungal activities of pelargonic and capric acid onMicrosporum gypseum
Authors: Chadeganipour M. , Haims A.
Published: March 2003

Summary. The inhibitory effects of pelargonic and capric acid onMicrosporum gypseumwere examined. Solid and liquid Sabouraud glucose media containing different concentrations of pelargonic and capric acid were separately prepared and inoculated with the suspension of mycelium and spores ofM. gypseumand incubated at 25 °C for 1 month. The culture media were examined periodically for fungal growth and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each fatty acid was determined. The MIC for capric acid was 0.02 mg ml−1and for pelargonic acid 0.04 mg ml−1on solid media and 0.075 mg ml−1for capric acid and 0.05 mg ml−1for pelargonic acid in the liquid media.
Faecal fungal flora in healthy volunteers and inpatients
Authors: Khatib R. , Riederer Kathleen M. , Ramanathan J. , Baran J.
Published: March 2003

Summary.The faecal fungal flora was analysed in healthy volunteers and inpatients. Self‐obtained stool swabs from volunteers (n = 228) and inpatient stool‐samples (n = 34) were cultured on Inhibitory‐Mould‐Agar plates. All yeast isolates were identified. Fungi were detected in 51.8% of volunteers; the majority (88.1%) had single species. The prevalence increased steadily with age.Candida albicanswas detected in 62.7%, non‐albicans Candidaspecies in 22.0%, yeasts – other thanCandidain 20.3% and moulds in 8.5% of volunteers with fungi. No gender‐related differences were noted in the prevalence or types of yeast.Candida glabrataandC. kruseiwere detected in adults only. Intra‐household species‐similarity (excludingC. albicans) was noted in seven of 31 (22.6%) households with fungi in two or more members. Inpatients had higher prevalence of yeast (88.2%) with a single species in the majority (73.3%). Yeasts other thanCandidawere less common in inpatients (3.3%;P = 0.013) whereasC. glabratawas significantly more prevalent (33.3 versus 2.5%;P < 0.001). This study delineates the faecal fungal flora in volunteers and inpatients. Most subjects harbour a single species that may be shared with other households. The prevalence is somewhat higher in adults and the types of yeast may vary with age. Finally,C. glabrataappears to be acquired nosocomially.
Case report. Fatal rhinocerebral zygomycosis due toRhizopus oryzae
Authors: Romano C. , Miracco C. , Massai L. , Piane R. , Alessandrini C. , Petrini C. , Luzi P.
Published: March 2003

Summary.A case of rhinocerebral zygomycosis due toRhizopus oryzae,arising after trauma in a 53‐year‐old diabetic man, is reported. Diagnosis was based on histological and mycological examination. Fragments of the colonies were observed by scanning electron microscopy. This is the first case diagnosed in Tuscany.
Diagnosis of systemicCandidainfections in patients of the intensive care unit. Significance of serum antigens and antibodies
Authors: Bär W. , Hecker H.
Published: March 2003

Summary.The combined detection ofCandidaantigen and antibody for the determination of systemicCandidainfections (SCI) was investigated. One hundred and four patients from the intensive care unit (ICU) were analysed. Seventeen of the patients were suspected of having SCI, based on clinical and laboratory criteria. In these patients,Candidaantigens and antibodies were analysed extensively. Ten patients had a positiveCandidaantigen (titre >1 : 16) determined by the latex agglutination assay Cand‐Tec®and their median antibody titre was 1 : 160 in the indirect haemagglutination test (HAT). Seven antigen‐negative patients had a median titre of 1 : 1280 (HAT). Forty‐one of 42 colonized control patients had negative antigen titres and a median antibody titre of 1 : 160. The sensitivities and specificities were 58.8% and 97.6% for antigenemia, and 52.9% and 85.7% for antibody detection. These values reached 100.0% and 83.3%, respectively, when the results of both tests were combined. This indicates a high degree of concordance between serological results (Candidaantigen and/or antibodies) and clinical presentation. We conclude, that the combined investigation of antigen and antibody titres might be a helpful tool in the characterization of SCI in ICU patients, if antigen titres are ≥1 : 16 or antibody titres (HAT) are ≥1 : 640.
Fungistatic activity of some perfumes against otomycotic pathogens
Authors: Jain S. K. , Agrawal S. C.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  The sporostatic effect of five otomycotic pathogens, i.e. Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Absidia corymbifera, Penicillium nigricans and Candida albicans to nine different perfumes was determined on the basis of their spore germination. These organisms were isolated from patients suffering from fungal infection of the external auditory canal. Volatile vapours emanating from musk, phulwari, jasmine, nagchampa and bela caused approximately 100% inhibition in spore germination of all the test fungi. Volatiles emanating from chandan, khas and hina showed no inhibition for the test pathogens, displaying their resistant character to these perfumes.
Antifungal effect of Hevea brasiliensis latex with various fungi. Its synergistic action with amphotericin B against Candida albicans
Authors: Giordani R. , Regli P. , Buc J.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Antifungal activity of latex from Hevea brasiliensis was observed with various fungi in macrobroth dilution assays. The strongest antifungal effect was obtained with Trichosporon cutaneum (MIC 80%=40.615 μg protein ml−1, Kaff=0.075 μg−1 protein ml) and Cryptococcus neoformans (MIC 80%=56.078 μg protein ml−1, Kaff=0.059 μg−1 protein ml). Amphotericin B was synergized with all H. brasiliensis latex concentrations tested. The rates of synergy were about 50, 44 and 55% with 15, 30 and 60 μg protein ml−1 latex, respectively. The putative role of glycosidase activities measured in crude latex, especially α‐d‐mannosidase and N‐acetyl‐β‐d‐glucosaminidase activities which are potentially able to split off intraparietal linkages between glycosidic residues, is discussed. The possible role of another antifungal factor associated with rubber particles of latex is suggested.
Host status and reaction of Arabidopsis thaliana ecotypes to infection by the northern root‐knot nematode (Meloidogyne hapla)
Authors: Boiteux L. S. , Fonseca M. E. N. , Simon P. W.
Published: March 2003

A phenotypically and geographically diverse collection of 45 Arabidopsis thaliana ecotypes was evaluated for its reaction to the northern root‐knot nematode (Meloidogyne hapla) under greenhouse conditions. A significant ecotype effect was observed for both criteria used for host reaction assessment: namely, root‐gall rating (RGR) and nematode reproductive index (RI). A non‐host (non‐galling) response was not detected in this germplasm collection. The majority of the ecotypes showed high degrees of RGR and RI. However, some medium‐late maturing ecotypes such as ‘CS‐1540’ and ‘CS‐6028’(both collected in the UK) displayed high RGR but in association with very reduced RI. The confirmation of A. thaliana as an experimental host of M. hapla and the identification of differential levels of response to infection by this endoparasitic nematode provides the opportunity for genetic and molecular characterization of a new set of plant genes expressed during plant‐nematode interaction. A. thaliana is the smallest and the best characterized genome among plant species, which may facilitate gene isolation and cloning. This may hasten transgenic transfer to economically important host plants of the genetic factors controlling low RI levels identified in some A. thaliana ecotypes.
Stress tolerance in hexaploid spring triticale under Mediterranean environment
Authors: Ö Zkan H. , Genc I. , Yagbasanlar T. , Toklu F.
Published: March 2003

The development of triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack) cultivars which are tolerant to drought and heat stress is an objective in many breeding programmes, but so far success has been limited. This study was conducted to determine the susceptibility index (S) of triticale under stress conditions. Twenty genotypes were grown in replicated trials and evaluated for heat and drought tolerance under natural conditions at Adana, Turkey, from 1992 to 1996. Among the advanced lines of triticale, genetic variation for adaptation to heat and drought conditions—typical features of the Mediterranean environment—was determined. The best yielding lines under stress, hence having a low susceptibility index, were Lynx/Yogui and Zebra 31. The implications of these findings for triticale breeding in stress environments are discussed.
Resistance in the leaf and stem of sunflower after infection with two isolates of Phomopsis
Authors: Degener J. , Melchinger A. E. , Hahn V.
Published: March 2003

Phomopsis helianthi (sexual stage Diaporthe helianthi) is a major disease in most sunflower growing countries. The objectives of this study were (1) to investigate whether resistance to Phomopsis differs between the leaf and stem tissue and (2) to examine the genetic variation for resistance to Phomopsis in sunflower inbreds. A set of 16 inbred lines was tested using artificial leaf infection with mycelial explants. The lines were screened for their reaction on leaf and stem in four environments to a French Phomopsis isolate and in two environments to a Yugoslavian isolate. Significant genetic variance and mostly high genetic ratios (analogous to heritability) were found for all resistance traits. While fungal growth reflected resistance to Phomopsis in the leaf, petiole score was associated with leaf length. Stem lesion proved to be the most suitable trait for evaluating resistance in the petiole‐stem passage. No correlation existed between resistance in the leaf and stem, suggesting that both resistance factors are inherited independently. Both isolates resulted in similar resistance rankings of the inbreds and no difference in their aggressiveness was detected with regard to leaf resistance. Screening for Phomopsis consisting of several steps is recommended, beginning with petiole score or fungal growth to select the most susceptible plants in the early testing, and measuring stem lesion in further generations of breeding.
Response of different genotypes of Brassica carinata to microspore culture
Authors: Barro F. , Martín A.
Published: March 2003

Sixteen lines of Brassica carinata were evaluated for microspore culture and plant regeneration. The highest values of cell division and embryo yield resulted from buds between 2.5 and 3.5 mm long with 3 days of pretreatment at 32°C and plating densities of 100 000‐150 000 microspores/ml. Ten out of 16 lines tested (63%) responded positively to microspore culture. In all breeding and F1 lines, both cell division and embryo yield varied over a wide range, but embryogenic response was higher in F1 lines than in the breeding lines.
Nature of wheat resistance to Fusarium head blight and the role of deoxynivalenol for breeding
Authors: Mesterházy Á. , Bartók T. , Mirocha C. G. , Komoróczy R.
Published: March 2003

Twenty (1990‐93) and 25 (1994‐96) wheat genotypes with different degrees of resistance and origins were tested with seven and eight isolates, respectively, of Fusarium graminearum and four Fusarium culmorum isolates of diverse origin in Europe. Infection severity depended largely on the genotypes and the isolates used. Head blight values, yield response and kernel infection values revealed close but varying relationships with deoxynivalenol (DON) content. This variability is explained by the presence of tolerance mechanisms which affect the relationship between Fusarium head blight severity and yield response. Kernel infection resistance accounted for decreasing Fusarium head blight values. Genotypes were found with lower infection severity and higher DON contamination and vice versa. Evidently, the cultivar has a significant influence on DON production in the infected tissue, i.e. highly susceptible genotypes may have moderate or low accumulation of DON. However, in the most resistant genotypes showing no infection to any of the isolates or only sporadic symptom development, no or very low accumulation of DON was detected. Resistant genotypes gave a stable reaction with b‐values close to zero for all traits tested. Susceptible genotypes were unstable under different epidemic conditions and their stability was different for the traits investigated. Therefore, the mean of b‐values is suggested to better describe the stability of the wheat genotypes.

Significant positive relationships were found between aggressiveness of the isolates and their production of DON in the infected grain. The correlation improved significantly for the nivalenol‐producing isolate (F89.4 from France) when the sum of DON and nivalenol contents were considered. This indicates that the total trichothecene toxin‐producing capacity of the isolates may be a decisive component of pathogenicity.

Since the tests included isolates from different European countries the results provide further proof that no host specificity exists within these pathogens in Europe. This was also valid for kernel infection, yield response and DON accumulation. Therefore, the nature of resistance is horizontal. The results also support the view that there is no difference between the resistance of the host plant to F. graminearum and to F. culmorum.
Sports and seedlings of rose varieties analysed with molecular markers
Authors: Debener T. , Janakiram T. , Mattiesch L.
Published: March 2003

Sports from two cut rose varieties, as well as a garden rose variety, were analysed with molecular markers. Between 695 and 752 random amplified polymorphic DNA and AFLP fragments were used to infer genetic differences between the sports, the original variety and seedlings of these varieties. Whereas no polymorphisms between the sports of the cut rose varieties and the original variety were observed, five polymorphisms could be detected between the garden rose variety and its sports. In contrast, a large number of polymorphisms occurred between all varieties and their seedlings. Therefore molecular markers can be used to verify the origin of vegetatively propagated rose plants of doubtful origin, thus enabling breeders in the future to claim plant breeders rights on sports of varieties already registered.
Impact of resistant melon cultivars on Sphaerotheca fuliginea
Authors: Hosoya K. , Kuzuya M. , Murakami T. , Kato K. , Narisawa K. , Ezura H.
Published: March 2003

Effects of the resistant cultivars of melon on the powdery mildew fungus, Sphaerotheca fuliginea, were investigated in a melon‐growing area of Japan. Powdery mildew fungi were isolated from four melon cultivars (‘HN21’, ‘Quincy’, ‘Earl's Knight Natsu 2’ and ‘Earl's Miyabi Natsu 2′) which are resistant to different races of S. fuliginea.‘HN21’is resistant to races 1 and N1,‘Quincy’ and ‘Earl's Knight Natsu 2’are resistant to races 1 and N2, and ‘Earl's Miyabi Natsu 2’is resistant to races 1, N1 and N2. All 155 strains isolated from ‘HN21’were identified as race N2. Seventy out of 81 strains isolated from ‘Quincy’ and ‘Earl's Knight Natsu 2’were identified as race N1, while other strains were identified as races 1, 2US, N2 and N3. Nineteen out of 29 strains isolated from ‘Earl's Miyabi Natsu 2’were identified as race N3, while other strains were identified as races 10, 2US, N1 and N4. These results suggest that, although the resistant cultivars are extremely effective for protecting the plants from their respective races, a race succession rapidly takes place, even in a small area, and other minor races become predominant.
Molecular mapping and gene action of Scm1 and Scm2, two major QTL contributing to SCMV resistance in maize
Authors: Duble C. M. , Melchinger A. E. , Kuntze L. , Stork A. , Lubberstedt T.
Published: March 2003

Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV) is one of the most important virus diseases of maize in Europe. In this study, the gene action at two major quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting resistance to SCMV in maize was mapped and characterized. A total of 121 F3 lines from cross F7 (susceptible) × FAP1360A (resistant) were evaluated for SCMV resistance in replicated field trials across two environments under artificial inoculation at seven scoring dates. The genotypic variance was always highly significant and heritability increased up to 0.92 for later scoring dates. The method of composite interval mapping was employed for QTL mapping using four simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers flanking two regions identified in a previous study with cross D145 × D32. The presence of two QTL for SCMV resistance, one on chromosome 6 (Scml region) and one on chromosome 2 (Scm2 region), was confirmed. These two QTL together explained between 15% (first score) and 62% (final score) of the phenotypic variance at various stages of plant development. Gene action was additive for the Scm1 region but completely dominant for the Scm2 region. Comparison of results of this study with those obtained for cross D145 × D32 suggested that the resistance alleles in the two populations are identical for the Scm1 region but different for the Scm2 region.