bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders after lung transplantation: first‐line treatment with rituximab may induce complete remission
Authors: Knoop Christiane , Kentos Alain , Remmelink Myriam , Garbar Christian , Goldman Serge , Feremans Walter , Estenne Marc
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Background: Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) are potentially lethal complications of solid organ transplantation. We, here, report on our experience with rituximab, an anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody, as first‐line treatment for PTLD in six lung transplant recipients.

Patients and methods: Two of the patients developed PTLD during the first year after transplantation, while four developed late‐onset PTLD. One patient presented with PTLD localized to the graft, one had unilateral cervical lymph nodes, and the others presented with multi‐organ involvement. All patients had diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. Immunosuppressive therapy was reduced and rituximab was administered at a dose of 375 mg/m2/wk for 4 wk.

Results: One patient did not respond to the first two courses of rituximab, received conventional chemotherapy, and achieved complete remission; four patients achieved complete remission after four courses with a median relapse‐free survival of 34 months (range: 14–55); and one patient did not respond and died. The diagnosis of complete remission was established by conventional imaging techniques combined to whole‐body positron emission tomography scan.

Conclusions: We conclude that reduction in immunosuppression combined to first‐line treatment with rituximab may induce long‐term complete remission in lung transplant recipients presenting PTLD.
Limitation of the model for end‐stage liver disease for outcome prediction in patients with cirrhosis‐related complications
Authors: Huo Teh‐Ia , Lin Han‐Chieh , Wu Jaw‐Ching , Hou Ming‐Chih , Lee Fa‐Yauh , Lee Pui‐Ching , Chang Full‐Young , Lee Shou‐Dong
Published: February 2006

Abstract: The model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) has been used to prioritize cirrhotic patients awaiting liver transplantation. Bleeding esophageal varices, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatic encephalopathy are major complications of cirrhosis and traditional indications for liver transplantation evaluation. However, these complications are not included in the MELD and it is not clear if these complications correlate with MELD score in terms of outcome prediction. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of cirrhosis‐related complication as a prognostic predictor in 290 cirrhotic patients. The MELD score and outcome were compared between patients with and without cirrhosis‐related complications. There was no significant difference of the MELD score between patients with (n=67) and without (n=223) complications (11.6±2.9 vs. 12.2±3.2, p=0.184). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.687 for MELD vs. 0.604 for complications (p=0.174) at six months, and the area was 0.641 for MELD vs. 0.611 for complications (p=0.522) at 12 months. A high MELD score and presence of complications had a similar profile of predictive accuracy and both were significant predictors of mortality at six and 12 months in multivariate logistic regression analysis. Patients with cirrhosis‐related complications at presentation had a decreased survival compared with those without complications (p<0.0001). In conclusion, the occurrence of cirrhosis‐related complications is a predictor of poor prognosis. While early transplantation referral is recommended, these patients do not necessarily have a higher MELD score and could be down‐staged in the MELD era.
Hepatitis B prophylaxis post‐liver transplant without maintenance hepatitis B immunoglobulin therapy
Authors: Nath Dilip S. , Kalis Ann , Nelson Susan , Payne William D. , Lake John R. , Humar Abhinav
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Background: We examined outcomes in recipients who underwent a liver transplant for HBV‐induced liver disease and received a protocol for prophylaxis that did not use HBIG maintenance.

Results: Between October 2002 and July 2005, a total of 14 liver transplant recipients were identified that met the study criteria. Mean recipient age was 47.6 yr; mean donor age was 37.2 yr. Category of transplant was as follows: cadaveric liver (n=10, 71%), cadaveric split‐liver (n=2, 14%), and cadaveric liver–kidney (n=2, 14%). Liver disease was diagnosed at a mean of 7.3 yr before transplant; three (21%) had a coexisting hepatocellular cancer at the time of transplant. Pre‐transplant, all 14 (100%) recipients were hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive, and 11 (79%) were HBV DNA positive (mean viral load of 251.2 pg/mL). Three (21%) were E antigen positive, and one (7%) was D antigen positive. Pre‐transplant, seven patients (50%) were on anti‐viral therapy and there was documented diminution in viral loads after initiating anti‐viral therapy in 3 cases. Three (21%) were hepatitis C virus (HCV) antigen positive and all had low‐RNA titers. With mean follow‐up of 14.1 months, all 14 patients are alive with a functioning graft. Mean ALT, AST and total bilirubin values are currently at 43.2, 32.2, and 0.84, respectively. One recipient remains HBsAg surface antigen positive post‐transplant but has normal lab values. The remaining recipients have no evidence of HBV recurrence by serology and protocol biopsies. The regimen has been well tolerated without the need for drug reduction or discontinuation because of side‐effects.

Conclusion: Longer follow‐up is needed, but this regimen may represent an alternative to chronic HBIG maintenance therapy.
Development of multiple food allergies in children taking tacrolimus after heart and liver transplantation
Authors: Özdemir Öner , Arrey‐Mensah Annie , Sorensen Ricardo U.
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Angioedema and chronic diarrhea in patients taking immunosuppressants are not always because of side effects and could be a new onset of food allergy. Our aim is to discuss the pathogenesis and treatment of the post‐transplant development of food allergies. The first patient was receiving tacrolimus subsequent to heart transplantation and developed angioedema after consumption of dairy products at 12 months after transplantation. He was found to be allergic to multiple foods by both RAST and ImmunoCAP tests. The second patient with argininosuccinic aciduria, post‐liver transplant, also received tacrolimus and developed chronic non‐mucoid/bloody diarrhea at seven months following transplantation. ImmunoCAP test was positive only for egg white and peanuts. Biopsy showed eosinophilic infiltration of the mucosa from the stomach to the rectum. Elimination diets in both patients resolved the symptoms. These cases suggest a direct relationship between tacrolimus and development of food allergy.
Prednisone withdrawal in pediatric kidney transplant recipients on tacrolimus‐based immunosuppression: Four‐year data
Authors: Hamiwka Lorraine A , Burns Angela , Bell Lorraine
Published: February 2006

Abstract:Corticosteroids have been used in renal transplant immunosuppression for over 40 yr. Despite their adverse effects, steroid therapy continues to be part of early as well as maintenance immunosuppression in most pediatric renal transplant centers. The association of steroids with growth retardation, weight gain, and acne may be particularly distressing during the critical years of adolescence and young adulthood, increasing the risk of medication non‐adherence. This study reviews the outcomes of pediatric renal transplant patients treated with low‐dose tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, or azathioprine, and planned prednisone withdrawal. Thirty‐seven pediatric renal transplant recipients were withdrawn from steroids. The mean follow‐up after steroid withdrawal was 42±19 months. Graft and patient survival were 100%. The mean serum creatinine levels and calculated creatinine clearances remained stable throughout the period of observation. The mean creatinine clearance was 96±24 mL/min/1.73 m2at steroid withdrawal and 93±20 mL/min/1.73 m2at the latest follow‐up. Five patients restarted prednisone; in four (11%) it was for suspected or confirmed acute rejection. Improvements were observed in serum lipid profiles, blood pressure, and body mass index. Most patients experienced catchup or stable growth after prednisone withdrawal. Four patients developed viral infections; all were successfully treated. The potential benefits of steroid withdrawal in pediatric renal transplantation are supported by our results.
Increased ecological amplitude through heterosis following wide outcrossing in Banksia ilicifolia R.Br. (Proteaceae)
Authors: Heliyanto B. , Krauss S. L. , Lambers H. , Cawthray G. R. , Veneklaas E. J.
Published: February 2006

To assess whether wide outcrossing (over 30 km) in the naturally fragmented Banksia ilicifolia R.Br. increases the ecological amplitude of offspring, we performed a comparative greenhouse growth study involving seedlings of three hand-pollinated progeny classes (self, local outcross, wide outcross) and a range of substrates and stress conditions. Outcrossed seedlings outperformed selfed seedlings, with the magnitude of inbreeding depression as high as 62% for seed germination and 37% for leaf area. Wide outcrossed seedlings outperformed local outcrossed seedlings, especially in non-native soils, facilitated in part by an improved capacity to overcome soil constraints through greater root carboxylate exudation. Soil type significantly affected seedling growth, and waterlogging and water deficit decreased growth, production of cluster roots, root exudation and total plant P uptake. Our results suggest that the interaction of narrow ecological amplitude and the genetic consequences of small fragmented populations may in part explain the narrow range of local endemics, but that wide outcrossing may provide opportunities for increased genetic variation, increased ecological amplitude and range expansion.
Babesiosis and blood transfusion: flying under the radar
Authors: Leiby D. A.
Published: February 2006

Infectious agents of disease continue to plague transfusion medicine as an increasing number of pathogens are described that pose a potential blood safety risk. While the recent focus has been on newly emerged agents, several well‐established pathogens provide timely reminders that other agents continue to pose threats, but invariably ‘fly under the radar’, thereby failing to elicit adequate measures to prevent their transmission by blood transfusion. Perhaps foremost among this group of agents are the Babesia spp., which have been known to cause human disease, in the USA, for close to 40 years. B. microti, B. divergens and several Babesia‐like agents are responsible for a growing number of human babesiosis infections. Concomitantly, in the USA, there has been a sharp rise in the number of transfusion‐transmitted infections of Babesia spp., attributable almost exclusively to B. microti. Despite the obvious public health issues posed by Babesia spp., options for preventing their transmission by blood transfusion remain limited. However, recognition that the Babesia spp. are indeed an ongoing and expanding blood safety threat will probably prove instrumental in the development of viable interventions to limit transmission of these agents.
Preoperative autologous blood donation in primary total knee arthroplasty: a single‐centre experience on 214 consecutive patients
Authors: Franchini M. , Regis D. , Gandini G. , Corallo F. , de Gironcoli M. , Aprili G.
Published: February 2006

Background and Objectives  Although preoperative autologous blood donation (PABD) is a widespread practice in elective orthopedic surgery, it is controversial whether this procedure avoids allogeneic blood transfusions in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Patients and Methods  We performed a retrospective study on 214 consecutive patients undergoing PABD before elective primary TKA.

Results  Thirty‐eight patients (17·8%) were transfused with autologous red blood cells (RBC), while four of them (10·5% of those requiring transfusions, 1·9% of all patients) also received allogeneic RBC. The transfused patients were, in most cases, female and had significantly lower basal and preoperative haemoglobin levels.

Conclusions  Based on the results of this study, PABD is not necessary in most patients undergoing TKA, although older female patients with low basal haemoglobin levels could benefit from a predeposit programme and/or erythropoietin support in order to reduce the risk of exposure to allogeneic blood.
Detection of a new weak A blood‐group allele (Aw11)
Authors: Pruss A. , Heymann G. A. , Braun J. , Kiesewetter H. H. , Salama A.
Published: February 2006

Background and Objectives  Weak ABO variants may escape tests using unlicensed sera.

Materials and Methods  Prior to transfusion, ABO grouping was performed using an automated system and in‐house diluted sera, and manual and bedside test techniques. Genotyping and sequencing were performed using standard methods.

Results  Initially, the red blood cells (RBC) of the first‐time blood donor were typed as B, but pretransfusion testing carried out using the bedside test indicated the presence of an additional A phenotype. Serological re‐examination confirmed the bedside test results, and the allele in question was identified, by genotyping, as a new weak A variant (Aw11).

Conclusions  The use of CE‐marked and licensed antisera is recommended to avoid ABO mistyping.
Bacterial contamination of platelet concentrates prepared by different methods: results of standardized sterility testing in Germany
Authors: Walther‐Wenke G. , Doerner R. , Montag Th. , Greiss O. , Hornei B. , Knels R. , Strobel J. , Volkers P. , Däubener W. ,   Working party on Bacteria Safety in Transfusion Medicine of the Advisory Board of the German Ministry of Health (Arbeitskreis Blut) , Berlin, Germany
Published: February 2006

Background and Objectives  National guidelines for monitoring the bacterial contamination rate of blood components were introduced in Germany in 1997. The objective of this study was to present and evaluate the results of sterility testing of platelet concentrates (PCs) prepared by different methods.

Materials and Methods  The analysis of results of sterility testing of blood component production from transfusion medicine centres in Germany in 1998 and 2001 was based on information collected using standardized questionnaires.

Results  The bacterial contamination rates for single‐donor PCs derived from whole blood and apheresis (0·210% vs. 0·156%) were comparable and showed no significant difference. However, pooled PCs produced from four buffy coats using the sterile docking procedure showed a significantly higher bacterial contamination rate compared with single‐donor PCs derived from whole blood and apheresis (0·184% vs. 0·604%).

Conclusions  Use of standardized methods for sterility monitoring is sufficient to assess collection and production processes in terms of hygiene and yields reliable data on bacterial contamination rates of blood components. The methods described are suitable for using to analyse the efficiency of newly introduced methods to reduce bacterial contamination rates of blood components (e.g. diversion, bacteria screening and pathogen inactivation).
Alloimmune neonatal neutropenia: Can we afford the consequences of a missed diagnosis?
Authors: Williams Bronwyn A , Fung YL
Published: February 2006

Abstract:  The incidence of alloimmune neonatal neutropenia (ANN) is poorly defined. The reported incidence is less than or equal to 0.1%. This prospective study of unselected pregnancies found an incidence of 0.81% based on results of screening 247 ‘full term’ cord blood samples. Alloimmune neonatal neutropenia occurred more frequently in this population than expected from published historical data. Advances in techniques for antineutrophil antibody screening may have contributed to the higher incidence found in this study. The frequency of ANN supports increased surveillance and confirmatory serological testing in infants with unexplained neutropenia.
Early childhood caries: Current evidence for aetiology and prevention
Authors: Gussy Mark G , Waters Elizabeth G , Walsh Orla , Kilpatrick Nicola M
Published: February 2006

Background: Despite the fact that it is largely preventable, dental caries (decay) remains one of the most common chronic diseases of early childhood. Dental decay in young children frequently leads to pain and infection necessitating hospitalization for dental extractions under general anaesthesia. Dental problems in early childhood have been shown to be predictive of not only future dental problems but also on growth and cognitive development by interfering with comfort nutrition, concentration and school participation.

Objective: To review the current evidence base in relation to the aetiology and prevention of dental caries in preschool‐aged children.

Methods: A search of MEDLINE, CINALH and Cochrane electronic databases was conducted using a search strategy which restricted the search to randomized controlled trials, meta‐analyses, clinical trials, systematic reviews and other quasi‐experimental designs. The retrieved studies were then limited to articles including children aged 5 years and under and published in English. The evidence of effectiveness was then summarized by the authors.

Conclusions: The review highlighted the complex aetiology of early childhood caries (ECC). Contemporary evidence suggests that potentially effective interventions should occur in the first 2 years of a child's life. Dental attendance before the age of 2 years is uncommon; however, contact with other health professionals is high. Primary care providers who have contact with children well before the age of the first dental visit may be well placed to offer anticipatory advice to reduce the incidence of ECC.
Guideline statements on the management of procedure‐related pain in neonates, children and adolescents
Authors: Mackenzie Angela
Published: February 2006

Abstract  This annotation discusses the process of writing guidelines on procedure‐related pain management by a diverse group of paediatricians and a consumer. It examines possible reasons for the huge gap between evidence and clinical practice and recommends that all health professionals look at their own experiences of pain growing up.
Idiopathic apparent life‐threatening event in Northern Israel
Authors: Tirosh Emanuel , Avengulov Igor , Jaffe Michael
Published: February 2006

Objective: To note whether the incidence of idiopathic apparent life‐threatening event (IALTE) has decreased since 1993 in parallel to the decline in the incidence of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI) 2. To compare their epidemiological profile to infants with acute unrelated illness.

Methods: The discharge diagnoses of each infant investigated for apparent life‐threatening event or apnea in the five major hospitals in Northern Israel were reviewed over the period 1991–2000. Infants with identified aetiology or apnea only were excluded. Each infant was matched with two other infants admitted for an acute respiratory illness unrelated to apnea. IALTE rates were compared to the national rates of SUDI.

Results: Two hundred and forty‐three infants were diagnosed with IALTE. No evidence for a decline in incidence was noted over the period of the study, while a consistent decline in the incidence of SUDI was observed. Only few differences in the epidemiological profile were noted between the study and the comparison group, that is, increased rate of prematurity and first‐born infants.

Conclusions: (i) The two conditions probably do not share a common aetiology in the majority of cases; and (ii) the epidemiological profile of IALTE is predominantly similar to that of infants hospitalized for respiratory illness.
Effect of antireflux medication, placebo and infant mental health intervention on persistent crying: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Jordan Brigid , Heine Ralf G , Meehan Michele , Catto‐Smith Anthony G , Lubitz Lionel
Published: February 2006

Objective: To assess the effect of medical antireflux treatment, and of an infant mental health consultation (IMHC), on persistent crying in infants and maternal distress.

Methods: Infants under 9 months of age with persistent crying, and their mothers, were enrolled in a randomized placebo‐controlled trial. At enrolment, a questionnaire on demographic and clinical details was completed by mothers, and maternal distress was measured (Experience of Motherhood Questionnaire; EMQ). Oesophageal 24‐h pH monitoring was performed in all infants on day 2. At week 4, the cry chart and EMQ were repeated in conjunction with a final interview.

Results: One hundred and three infants (56 under 3 months of age; 55 male) who were randomized to active medication (ranitidine plus cisapride; n = 34), placebo (n = 29) or IMHC (n = 40) completed the trial. There was a significant reduction in crying duration from baseline to week 4 (253 ± 96.5 min vs 159 ± 92.3 min per 24 h; P < 0.001), without differences between treatment groups (AVOVA: F = 0.75; P = 0.48). There was a modest improvement in EMQ scores from 44.9 ± 8.6 at day 1 to 42.8 ± 9.4 at week 4; P = 0.006. The improvement in maternal stress was similar in all treatment groups (Kruskal–Wallis χ2 = 0.354; P = 0.84), but subsequent admission to a mother–infant unit was significantly less frequent in the IMHC group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Antireflux medications and IMHC were not superior to placebo in treating infants with persistent crying. Although the reduction in maternal distress was similar in all treatment groups, the individualized IMHC reduced the need for subsequent admission to a mother–infant unit.
Spontaneous recovery of steroid‐induced osteopenia
Authors: Gozzi Tiziana G. , Simm Peter J , Cameron Fergus J
Published: February 2006

Abstract:  We report a case of an adolescent girl treated with high‐dose oral steroids for prolonged coughing thought to be secondary to unstable asthma. Iatrogenic adrenal suppression led to clinical appearance of Cushing syndrome and associated bilateral early post‐capsular cataracts, slowing of growth velocity and osteopenia. After weaning off steroids, there was a spontaneous increase in aeral lumbar bone mineral density and also catch‐up growth evident over a 5‐year period.
Social capital, rural nursing and rural nursing theory
Authors: Lauder William , Reel Sally , Farmer Jane , Griggs Harvey
Published: February 2006

The notion of social capital focuses attention on social connectedness within communities and the ways that this connectedness may affect health and well‐being. There are many competing definitions of social capital but most suggest that it involves trust, social networks and reciprocity within communities, not necessarily geographically defined. The usefulness of social capital and related theories that help in understanding the function of nurses in rural communities are explored in this paper. Nurses and health service planners are becoming increasingly aware of the potential contribution of community nurses in rural and/or remote areas, as evidenced in the development of nurse practitioners. Through their interrelational role and status in rural communities, nurses are often ‘immersed’ or ‘embedded’ in the social networks that make up the fabric of rural life and may therefore be important contributors to social capital. For a concept such as social capital to be useful in nursing research, it must have distinct attributes, delineated boundaries, and well‐described preconditions and outcomes in multiple contexts.
Nurse–patient communication: language mastery and concept possession
Authors: Nordby Halvor
Published: February 2006

Influential holistic analyses of patient perspectives assume that the concepts that patients associate with medical terms are formed by their total social and cultural contexts. Holistic analyses presuppose conceptual role semantics in the sense that they imply that a medical term must have the same role for a nurse and a patient in order for them to associate the same concept with the term. In recent philosophy of mind, social externalism has emerged as a non‐holistic alternative to conceptual role theories. According to social externalism, a nurse and a patient express the same concept by a term if they both have a minimal or better understanding of the term. Three arguments in favour of social externalism are presented in connection with nurse–patient interaction. The first concerns successful communication, the second focuses on belief reports made by patients and the third centres on the need for including medical terms in medical discourse. Finally, the practical implications of the arguments are clarified. The most important of these is that, in cases of misunderstanding, a nurse should not conform to a patient's idiosyncratic understanding, but instead correct the mistaken applications of the term in question.
Sulcochrysis biplastida gen. et sp. nov.: Cell structure and absolute configuration of the flagellar apparatus of an enigmatic chromophyte alga
Authors: Honda Daiske , Kawachi Masanobu , Inouye Isao
Published: February 2006

Sulcochrysis biplastida gen. et sp. nov., a golden, marine, mixotrophic flagellate is described. Cells resemble Ochromonas in light microscopic features, but they are distinct at the electron microscopic level from Ochromonas or any other typical chrysophyte.

Ultrastructural features that discriminate Sulcochrysis from the Chrysophyceae are: (i) a proximal helix in the flagellar transition region; (ii) basal bodies situated in the anterior depression of the nucleus; (iii) the lack of the rhizoplast; and (iv) simple flagellar hairs lacking lateral filaments. These features suggest that Sulcochrysis is a relative of the Pedinellophyceae, Dictyochophyceae and Pelagophyceae. However, Sulcochrysis has a flagellar root system similar to that of the Ochromonas‐type cell and it may use the R3 root for prey capture, as do ochromonadalean algae. The R3 root and the phagotrophic mechanism using the R3 root are interpreted as a plesiomorphy, because these are also distributed in primitive heterokonts such as the bicosoecids. Sulcochrysis has one microtubule probably homologous with the x‐fibre of Bicosoeca maris Picken. Based on these features it is suggested that Sulcochrysis is an organism that links bicosoecids (Bicosoeco‐phyceae), Pedinellophyceae, Dictyochophyceae and Pelagophyceae.
Apical cells of brown algae with particular reference to Sphacelariales, Dictyotales and Fucales
Authors: Katsaros Christos I.
Published: February 2006

Brown algae show a significant diversity in thallus forms, giving a great number of model systems for the study of many important morphogenetic mechanisms. Thallus growth in brown algae is diffuse, intercalary or apical. The latter takes place by means of one or more apical cells. Among the brown algal groups, Sphacelariales, Dictyotales and Fucales give the best examples of apical growth, and have been repeatedly used for the study of the morphogenetic role of apical cells.

In Sphacelariales the apical cells appear strongly polarized, the polarity expressed also on the organization of the microtubule cytoskeleton. These cells show a type of growth that can be compared with tip growth of root hairs, moss protonemata, pollen tubes and fungal hyphae, and is called ‘tip‐like growth’. The thallus of Dictyotales grows by the activity of one or more apical cells showing variable degree of polarity. These cells do not exhibit any type of apical growth. In Fucales the vegetative thallus develops by means of an active apical meristem, which includes a large apical cell. This cell does not show polar organization or apical growth. However, in germinating zygotes of Fucales a polar axis is established and during the first stages of development they show a typical tip growth.

In the present paper, the available information on the structure and division pattern of apical cells is presented. Their morphogenetic role is discussed, in relation to polarity, cytoskeleton organization, and apical dominance.
Gametogenesis and chromosome number in Postelsia palmaeformis (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Lewis Raymond J.
Published: February 2006

Gametophytes of the ‘sea palm’, the kelp Postelsia palmaeformis Ruprecht, produced gametes whether or not chelated iron was supplied in the culture medium, in contrast to the inhibition of gametogenesis seen with the absence of iron in many other kelps. As gametogenesis proceeded, every cell of the gametophytes was converted into a gamete so that the gametophytes did not continue to grow vegetatively. The portion of the life history from spore release through germination, gametophyte growth, gametogenesis, fertilization and growth of the young sporophyte was completed in 9–10 days under laboratory conditions. Chromosome counts showed that sporophytes had a diploid number of 26–34 chromosomes while sporangia and gametophytes had a haploid number of 14–17 chromosomes, indicating a typical haplodiplophasic life history as seen in other Laminariales.
A new ‘paralyzed’ flagella mutant, OC‐10, in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Volvocales, Chlorophyceae) that can be reactivated with adenosine triphosphate
Authors: Nakamura Shogo , Kawanishi Emiko , Nakamura Soichi , Watanabe Shin , Kojima Manabu K.
Published: February 2006

A new ‘paralyzed’ mutant. OC–10, was isolated in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Dangeard. OC‐10 cannot swim and generally shows very little flagellar movement. However, when OC‐10 was demembranated, axonemal motility was reactivated in the presence of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or adenosine diphosphate (ADP). The beating form of the reactivated axonemes was almost the same as that of the wild‐type axonemes. Flagellar regeneration of OC‐10 was slower than that of the wild‐type. Electron microscopic examination showed no abnormality in OC‐10 flagella, but SDS/PAGE revealed that mobility of a flagellar membrane protein was changed and a few bands disappeared in OC‐10 flagella, When the mutant was crossed to wild‐type to form temporary dikaryon cells with 4 flagella, OC‐10 flagella did not regain motility. Tetrad analysis of crosses between OC–10 and wild‐type demonstrated a 1:1 segregation on the basis of flagellar motility. From these results, we suppose that OC‐10 may be limited in ATP availability inside the flagella, or altered in flagellar membrane proteins important for motility.
Heterocapsa circularisquama sp. nov. (Peridiniales, Dinophyceae): A new marine dinoflagellate causing mass mortality of bivalves in Japan
Authors: Horiguchi Takeo
Published: February 2006

Heterocapsa circularisquama Horiguchi sp. nov. is described from Ago Bay, central Japan. The dinoflagellate produced large‐scale red tides in the bays of central and western Japan and caused mass mortality of bivalves, notably the pearl oysters. The cell is small and is composed of a conical epitheca and a hemi‐spheroidal hypothecs. The chloroplast is single and is connected to the single pyrenoid. The nucleus is elongated and is located in the left side of the cell. Thecal plate arrangement has been determined as: Po, cp, 5′, 3a, 7″, 6c, 5s, 5″′, 2″″. Heterocapsa circularisquama is morphologically very similar to Heterocapsa illdefina and it is almost impossible to distinguish these two species at light microscopical level. The characteristics which can be used to distinguish these two species are the morphology of body scales and the ultrastructure of the pyrenoid matrix. The body scales of H. circularisquama possess six radiating ridges on the circular basal plate; no such ridges can be observed on the roughly triangular basal plate of the scales of H. illdefina. Furthermore, the scales of the latter species possess substantially shorter spines compared to those of H. circularisquama. The pyrenoid matrix of H. circularisquama is hardly perforated by cytoplasmic tubules, while in H. tlldefina the pyrenoid matrix is always penetrated by many cytoplasmic tubules. Based on the arrangement of thecal plates, morphology of body scales, and ultra‐structure of the pyrenoid, I am placing H. circularisquama sp nov. into the genus Heterocapsa.
Morphology and life history of Halopteris filicina (Sphacelariales, Phaeophyceae) from Korea
Authors: Keum Yeon‐Shim , Oh Yoon Sik , Lee In Kyu
Published: February 2006

The vegetative morphology and life history of Halopteris filicina (Grateloup) Kutzing, collected from Korea, were examined in laboratory culture. Field plants attaining 3–5 cm in height were epilithic, tufted, yellowish‐brown, and produced numerous erect axes with alternately distichous branches from compact basal discs. They were cultured under a 12:12 h LD photoperiod at 10°‐C, 15°C and 20°C to observe the influence of temperature on reproduction. At 10°C plants grew only vegetatively, whereas at 15°C and 20°C they produced unilocular sporangia. Unispores released from sporangia developed into monoecious, anisogamous gametophytes that formed plurilocular female and male gametangia on the same lateral branches. The zygotes, by fusion of female macrogametes and male microgametes, developed into sporophytes bearing unilocular sporangia, whereas the unfused female gametes germinated parthenogenetically. This species was confirmed to have an isomorphic life history, basically similar to the other species of Sphacelariales.
Kinetics of non‐photosynthetic callus production from the brown alga Laminaria setchellii (Laminariales)
Authors: Qi Hans , Rorrer Kristin A. , Jiang Zhi D. , Rorrer Gregory L.
Published: February 2006

White, filamentous, callus‐like tissue was produced from the temperate marine brown alga Laminaria setchellii Silva under non‐photosynthetic conditions. Explant disks from the medullary core of the stipe section were plated on solid medium (1.5 wt% agar in seawater base, pH 8) at 8 ± 2°C in the dark, and the formation of callus‐like tissue was followed as a function of time up to 8 weeks. Although 30% of the total explants plated formed filamentous, callus‐like growths, only 3 to 6% of the total explants produced relatively large amounts of filamentous and rounded callus‐like cells. The fresh weight yield of this callus‐like tissue was 3.74 ± 0.93 mg per 10 mm explant disk (0.053 g callus per g explant). Attempts at establishing a growing, cell suspension of the dispersed callus tissue in PES liquid medium at 24 μmol photon m−2 s−1 were not successful.
Growth of the conchocelis phase ofPorphyra columbina(Bangiales, Rhodophyta) at different temperatures and levels of light, nitrogen and phosphorus
Authors: Frazer Allen W. J. , Brown Murray T.
Published: February 2006

Temperature, light, nitrogen and phosphorus all had significant effects on the growth of conchocelis colonies ofPorphyra columbinaMontagne when grownin vitrousing a shell substrate. High rates of growth were recorded at 15°C and at 8°C under low light levels. These fight and temperature conditions are similar to those found in the subtidal environment of southern New Zealand coastlines. Little growth occured at 22°C. Nitrogen stimulated growth at concentrations far greater than are likely to be foundin situ, while at concentrations of 120 μmol/L and above phosphorus had an inhibitory effect on growth, The culture parameters were strongly interactive in their effect on growth, in particular temperature and light. Conchosporangia formed in all treatments 14 days after alteration of the photoperiod to 10 h light: 14 h dark. Optimal conditions for culture of the conchocelis ofP. columbinafrom southern New Zealand are a water temperature of approximately 15°C, light levels between 10 and 50 μmol m−2s−1and seawater nitrogen levels maintained above 100 μmol/L.
Life history in culture of the obligate epiphytePorphyra subtumens(Bangiales, Rhodophyta) endemic to New Zealand
Authors: Nelson W. A. , Knight G. A.
Published: February 2006

This is the first report of the growth in culture ofPorphyra subtumensJ. AgardhexLaing (Bangiales, Rhodophyta), an obligate epiphyte ofDurvillaeaspecies and endemic to New Zealand waters. Archeospores, previously observed on field material, develop directly into the blade phase. Spores released from field collected blades form conchocelis. Conchospores develop into new blades, completing the life history in culture. Earlier reports of reproduction inP. subtumensgave conflicting accounts with some authors citing this species as having an asexual, monophasic life history with an unusual form of spore production, while others described spermatangia and carposporangia on the blade phase.
Taxonomic studies on the Chlorarachniophyta. II. Generic delimitation of the chlorarachniophytes and description of Gymnochlora stellata gen. et sp. nov. and Lotharella gen. nov.
Authors: Ishida Ken‐ichiro , Nakayama Takeshi , Hara Yoshiaki
Published: February 2006

A new chlorarachniophytan alga, Gymnochlora stellata Ishida et Y. Hara gen. et sp. nov., has been isolated from Anae Island in Guam. It is a green, star‐shaped, unicellular, amoeboid organism with several filopodia that do not form a reticulopodial network. Neither zoospores nor walled coccoid cells have been observed throughout the life cycle. The chloroplast ultrastructure is similar to those of described species; however, the pyrenoid matrix, which is invaded by many tubular structures originating from the inner membrane of the chloroplast envelope, is unique. A classification system is proposed for the Chlorarachniophyta. In this system, the ultrastructural features of the pyrenoid and the location of the nucleomorph in the periplastidial compartment are used as generic criteria, while the morphological features of the vegetative cells and life cycle patterns are used for species criteria. The described species, except for Cryptochlora perforans Calderon‐Saenz et Schnetter, are also reassessed under the new system, and consequent nomenclatural requirements for the genus Chlorarachnion are dealt with in this paper. The taxonomic rank of a previously described species, Chlorarachnion globosum Ishida et Y. Hara, is elevated and Lotharella globosa (Ishida et Y. Hara) Ishida et Y. Hara gen. nov. et comb. nov. is proposed.
The phylogenetic relationship between the Chlamydomonadales and Chlorococcales inferred from 18SrDNA sequence data
Authors: Nakayama Takeshi , Watanabe Shin , Mitsui Kaoru , Uchida Hidenobu , Inouye Isao
Published: February 2006

Nuclear‐encoded small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (185rDNA) sequences were determined for Chlamydomonas moewusii Gerloff and five chlorococcalean algae (Chlorococcum hypnosporum Starr; Chlorococcum oleofaciens Trainor et Bold; Chlorococcum sp.; Tetracystis aeria Brown et Bold; Protosiphon botryoides (Kützingl Klebs). All these algae are characterized by a clockwise CCW) flagellar apparatus. Phylogenetic trees were constructed from sequences from these algae together with 20 green algae. All algae with a CW flagellar apparatus form a monophyletic clade (CW group). Three principal clades can be recognized in the CW group, although no morphological character supports monophyly of any of these three clades. The 185rDNA trees clearly demonstrate the non‐monophyly of the Chlamydomonadales and Chlorococcales, suggesting that vegetative morphology does not reflect phylogenetic relationships in the CW group. The paraphyly or polyphyly of the genus Chlamydomonas and Chlorococcum are also revealed. Present analysis suggests that the presence or absence of a zoospore's cell wall and the multinucleate condition have limited taxonomic values at higher taxonomic ranks.
Cellulose‐synthesizing terminal complexes and microfibril structure in the brown alga Sphacelaria rigidula (Sphacelariales, Phaeophyceae)*
Authors: Tamura Hiroshi , Mine Ichiro , Okuda Kazuo
Published: February 2006

The brown alga Sphacelaria rigidula Kützing synthesizes cellulose microfibrils as determined by CBH I‐gold labeling. The cellulose microfibrils are thin, ribbon‐like structures with a uniform thickness of about 2.6 nm and a variable width in the range of 2.6‐30 nm. Some striations appear along the longitudinal axis of the microfibrils. The developed cell wall in Sphacelaria is composed of three to four layers, and cellulose micro‐fibrils are deposited in the third layer from the outside of the wall. A freeze fracture investigation of this alga revealed cellulose‐synthesizing terminal complexes (TCs), which are associated with the tip of microfibril impressions in the plasmatic fracture face of the plasma membrane. The TCs consist of subunits arranged in a single linear row. The average diameter of the sub‐units is about 6 nm, and the intervals between the neighboring subunits, about 9 nm, are relatively constant. The number of subunits constituting the TC varies between 10 and 100, so that the length of the whole TC varies widely. A model that has been proposed for the assembly of thin, ribbon‐like microfibrils was applied to microfibril assembly in Sphacelaria.
Sorellocolax stellarisgen. et sp. nov., a hemiparasitic alga (Delesseriaceae, Rhodophyta) from the east coast of Honshu, Japan
Authors: Yoshida Tadao , Mikami Hideo
Published: February 2006

A hemiparasitic alga,Sorellocotax stellarissp. nov. is described growing on plants ofSorella repenscollected from Onagawa, Miyagi Prefecture, east coast of Honshu, Japan. The thallus is small, up to 2 mm high, once or twice branched from the margin. The growing apex has a transversely dividing apical cell, and intercalary cell divisions occur in the cells of first‐order rows. Tetrasporangia are cut off from the cells of the inner cortex, The procarp is composed of a supporting cell, one group of sterile cells and two carpogonial branches. Carposporangia are borne in short chains.
Phylogeny of wall‐less green flagellates inferred from 18SrDNA sequence data
Authors: Nakayama Takeshi , Watanabe Shin , Inouye Isao
Published: February 2006

To elucidate the phylogeny of the Dunaliellalessensu Ettl.the taxon often thought to be intermediate between primitive green flagellates such as the prasinophytes and the advanced chlorophycean algae, the sequences of the nuclear‐encoded small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (18SrDNA) were determined and analyzed for five green algae, including three dunaliellalean algae. Phylogenetic trees based on 18SrDNA suggest thatOltmannsiellopsis viridis(Margraves et Steele) Chihara et Inouye represents an early divergence in the Ulvophyceae/Trebouxio‐phyceae/Chlorophyceae clade and has no close relationship to any other green algae, as also suggested from ultrastructural characters. We propose Oltmannsiellopsidates ord. nov. for this genus.HafniomonasandPolytomellaare included in the clade which is characterized by clockwise basal bodies (CW group). The 18SrDNA trees suggest that multiple losses of the cell wall of the flagellate cell occurred in the CW group, and that the Dunaliellales sensu Ettl has a polyphyletic nature. This study also suggests thatPlanophita terrestnsGroover et Hof‐stetter (Chaetopeltidales) andChaetophora incras‐sata(Hudson) Hazen (Chaetophorales) are distinct lineages in the Chlorophyceae.
Ca2+‐dependent ATPase associated with plasma membrane from a calcareous alga, Serraticardia maxima (Corallinaceae, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Mori Izumi C. , Sato Gorou , Okazaki Megumi
Published: February 2006

The plasma membrane was isolated from a calcareous red alga, Serraticardia maxima (Yendo) Silva (Corallinaceae), by aqueous two‐phase partitioning. Its purity was examined with marker enzymes, Mg2+‐dependent ATPase, inosine diphosphatase, cytochrome c oxidase and NADH‐cytochrome c reductase, as well as the sensitivity of Mg2+‐dependent ATPase to vanadate, azide and nitrate. The results showed that the isolated plasma membrane was purified enough to study its functions. Electron microscopic observations on thin tissue sections revealed that most vesicles of the isolated plasma membrane were stained by the plasma membrane specific stain, phosphotungstic acid‐chromic acid. Mg2+‐ or Ca2+‐dependent ATPases were associated with the plasma membrane. Ca2+‐dependent ATPase was activated at physiological cytoplasmic concentrations of Ca2+ (0.1–10 μmol/L). However, calmodulin (0.5 μmol/L) did not affect its activity. The pH optimum was 8.0, in contrast to 7.0 for Mg2+‐dependent ATPase. The isolated plasma membrane vesicles were mostly right side‐out. To test for H+‐translocation, right side‐out vesicles were inverted; 27% of vesicles were inside‐out after treatment with Triton X‐100. The inside‐out plasma membrane vesicles showed reduction of quinacrine fluorescence in the presence of 1 mmol/L ATP and 100 μmol/L Ca2+. The reduced fluorescence was recovered with the addition of 10 mmol/L NH4Cl, or 5 μmol/L nigericin plus 50 mmol/L KCl. UTP and CTP substituted for ATP, but ADP did not. Ca2+‐dependent ATPase might pump H+ out in the physiological state. The acidification by this pump might be coupled with alkalinization at the calcifying sites, which induces calcification.
Taxonomic notes on the Halymeniaceae (Gigartinales, Rhodophyta) from Japan. III. Synonymization of Pachymeniopsis Yamada in Kawabata with Grateloupia C. Agardh*
Authors: Kawaguchi Shigeo
Published: February 2006

The taxonomic status of the red algal genus Pachymeniopsis (Halymeniaceae) was evaluated based on a morphological study of the type species Pachymeniopsis lanceolata (Okamura) Yamada in Kawabata (=Aeodes lanceolata Okamura). Features used to separate Pachymeniopsis from allied genera such as Aeodes or Grateloupia were found to be inconsistently expressed within even single populations, and P. lanceolata is considered to be best placed in Grateloupia. The two remaining species, P. yendoi and P. elliptica, are judged to be conspecific, with P. elliptica also best placed in Grateloupia. The genus Pachymeniopsis is, therefore, considered synonymous with Grateloupia. The transfer of P. lanceolata to Grateloupia is proposed as Grateloupia lanceolata (Okamura) Kawaguchi, comb. nov. The reinstatement of Grateloupia elliptica Holmes, which includes Pachymeniopsis yendoi as a synonym, is also proposed.
New members of a group of DNA viruses infecting brown algae
Authors: Kapp Markus , Knippers Rolf , Müller Dieter G.
Published: February 2006

Since 1990 virus infections have been described in six brown algal species of the genera Ectocarpus, Feldmannia, Hincksia and Myriotrichia. These pathogens can be experimentally transmitted to healthy isolates of their hosts. A synopsis including new molecular and biochemical data shows that these viruses share common characteristics: genomes of double‐stranded DNA, infection mode, morphology, extended temperence, and narrow host‐specificity. These properties distinguish the brown algal viruses from all other known plant viruses.
Callus induction and thallus regeneration in some species of red algae
Authors: Huang Wei , Fujita Yuji
Published: February 2006

Callus induction was obtained from axenic explants of 14 species of red algae. ASP12NTA solid medium (1.5% agar) supplemented with indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) and 6‐benzylaminopurine (BAP) was used for callus induction. In most of the species, addition of IAA or BAP at 0.1 mg/L or 1.0 mg/L enhanced callus induction rate or callus size. The combination of IAA (0.1 mg/L) and BAP (0.1 mg/L) was more effective among eight species, while high concentrations of IAA (10 mg/L) showed an inhibitory effect. Great variation in callus form, source tissue, and color of the induced callus were observed. The callus mainly originated from medullary and cortical tissue of the explant. Callus with filamentous, oval and spherical cell chains or disorganized cell mass was observed. The excised calluses from the explants of six species showed sustained growth on subculture. On transfer of the subdivided callus mass of seven species to PES liquid medium, shoot formation and thallus regeneration were observed.
Erythroglossum latum sp. nov. (Delesseriaceae, Rhodophyta) from the east coast of Honshu, Japan
Authors: Yoshida Tadao , Mikami Hideo
Published: February 2006

A new species, Erythroglossum latum, is described based on specimens from Fukushima Prefecture along the east coast of Honshu, Japan. This species differs from Erythroglossum pinnatum Okamura in having a broader main blade, a clear midrib and lateral branches that are smaller in size and not clearly constricted at the base.