bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of nuclear microsatellite loci in Lupinus group Microcarpi (Leguminosae)
Authors: DRUMMOND C. S. , HAMILTON M. B.
Published: March 2007

Microsatellite loci are described for Lupinus group Microcarpi (Leguminosae), an assemblage of annual plants primarily inhabiting western North America. In all, 188 unique microsatellite loci were isolated, and seven loci (averaging 9.6 alleles each) have been developed as polymorphic markers for estimating population structure and outcrossing rates in Lupinus microcarpus var. densiflorus and var. horizontalis. Departures from Hardy–Weinberg expected frequencies of heterozygotes are consistent with structured populations and autogamous or mixed mating systems. Several loci were amplified successfully in other species of Lupinus, demonstrating the potential utility of these markers beyond group Microcarpi.
Characterization of 16 polymorphic microsatellite loci in weathervane scallop Patinopecten caurinus
Authors: ELFSTROM C. M. , SMITH C. T. , JONES K. C. , SEEB J. E.
Published: March 2007

Discrete and commercially important patches of weathervane scallops (Patinopecten caurinus) are found in the northeastern Pacific Ocean. Little is known about weathervane scallop life history and population structure, but the species is vulnerable to overexploitation because of their large size and long lifespan. Here we describe 16 polymorphic microsatellite loci developed to study the relatedness of these discrete patches. All loci were polymorphic in the 32 individuals tested; the number of alleles range from four to 26 and heterozygosities ranged from 0.437 to 1.000.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci fromSilene tatarica
Authors: TERO N. , SCHLÖTTERER C.
Published: March 2007

Five new microsatellite loci were isolated from the perennial plant,Silene tatarica. We characterizedS. tataricaindividuals originating from two riverbank populations in northern Finland and observed between four and nine alleles per locus. Observed heterozygosity was consistently lower than gene diversity (HO: 0.0450–0.2385,HE: 0.1919–0.6187). This deficiency of heterozygous genotypes was observed in most locus/population combinations, and is presumably caused by spatial genetic structuring due to restricted seed flow within subpopulations. The markers presented here are the first microsatellites reported forS. tatarica.
Characterization of microsatellite markers in the shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa C. F Gaertn) in Mali
Authors: CARDI CÉLINE , VAILLANT ALEXANDRE , SANOU HABY , KELLY BOKARY A. , BOUVET JEAN‐MARC
Published: March 2007

In order to study the genetic diversity and structure in the population of Vitellaria paradoxa, we characterized eight polymorphic microsatellite loci. Primers to amplify these loci were tested on 169 individual trees representing a sample of the population of shea tree in Mali. The loci were all polymorphic with a number of alleles between three to nine and with observed level of heterozygosity ranging from 0.035 to 0.507. These markers will be useful for genetic and ecological studies of this species.
Development and characterization of 11 microsatellite markers in a widespread Neotropical seasonally dry forest tree species, Geoffroea spinosa Jacq. (Leguminosae)
Authors: NACIRI‐GRAVEN Y. , CAETANO S. , PRADO D. , PENNINGTON R. T. , SPICHIGER R.
Published: March 2007

Eleven dinucleotide microsatellites were developed in Geoffroea spinosa (Leguminosae), a widespread tree of the seasonally dry Neotropical forests, and characterized on six populations from Peru, Argentina and Paraguay. Four of them amplified on the Peruvian populations only, probably because of mutations in the microsatellite flanking regions in the other populations. Ten microsatellites were found polymorphic, with within population gene diversities ranging from 0.17 to 0.95, and a number of alleles varying from seven to 19. A significant overall genetic differentiation was also found (θ = 0.212; P < 0.01).
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci from the barley scald pathogen, Rhynchosporium secalis
Authors: LINDE CELESTE C. , ZALA MARCELLO , MCDONALD BRUCE A.
Published: March 2007

Fifteen primer pairs were designed for 14 polymorphic microsatellite loci, which were isolated and characterized from genomic libraries of Rhynchosporium secalis. Conditions for multiplexing and simultaneous genotyping of up to eight loci in a single run are described. The number of alleles per polymorphic locus ranged from two to 13 in populations from Switzerland and Australia. Genotypic diversity ranged from 61.5 to 66.7. Gene diversity ranged from 0.08 to 0.89 for individual polymorphic loci, with averages of 0.54 and 0.62 for the populations from Switzerland and Australia, respectively. Variable levels of polymorphism make these ideal markers for population genetic analyses.
Development and characteristics of microsatellite markers in Pinus merkusii
Authors: NURTJAHJANINGSIH I. L. G. , SAITO Y. , LIAN C. L. , TSUDA Y. , IDE Y.
Published: March 2007

Pinus merkusii is an important industrial species that is distributed only in Southeast Asia. We isolated 10 microsatellite markers from this species using a dual‐suppression‐polymerase chain reaction technique. Of these markers, five loci were codominant and polymorphic. The number of alleles per locus ranged from three to six and the expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.389 to 0.728. These microsatellite markers will be available for analysis on population genetics and mating patterns.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellite markers in the wall lizard Podarcis erhardii (Squamata: Lacertidae)
Authors: POULAKAKIS N. , GOULIELMOS G. , ANTONIOU A. , ZOUROS E. , MYLONAS M.
Published: March 2007

Five polymorphic microsatellite loci (containing di‐ and penta‐nucleotide repeats) were developed for the Erhard's wall lizard, Podarcis erhardii, an endemic species of southern Balkan Peninsula. The number of alleles ranged from five to 17. Observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.28 to 0.92 and 0.57 to 0.91, respectively. These markers will provide a valuable tool for population genetics analyses and can contribute to the evaluation of conservation programs.
Application of the nonradioactive biotin–streptavidin system to visualize AFLP fragments
Authors: PFEIFFER TANJA , ZIPPEL ELKE , FRITZ SEBASTIAN , STECH MICHAEL
Published: March 2007

Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) fingerprinting is one of the most widely used molecular techniques in plant biology today. In this paper, we describe the application of the extremely sensitive nonradioactive biotin–streptavidin system to visualize AFLP fragments blotted onto nylon membranes. The protocol is tested for different plant species (from bryophytes, gymnosperms and angiosperms) and primer combinations. Advantages of this protocol over other nonradioactive detection methods are discussed, and the suitability of the method for laboratories without automated sequencing facilities are emphasized.
Five polymorphic microsatellite markers for the study of Cardiocondyla elegans (Hymenoptera: Myrmicinae)
Authors: LENOIR JEAN‐CHRISTOPHE , SCHREMPF ALEXANDRA , LENOIR ALAIN , HEINZE JÜRGEN , MERCIER JEAN‐LUC
Published: March 2007

We describe primer sequences for five microsatellite markers in Cardiocondyla elegans, an ant species with ergatoid males. Polymorphism of these loci was investigated using 236 individuals from 22 colonies from four locations. The microsatellites are dinucleotide repeats with four to 16 alleles, and the observed heterozygosity ranges from 0.244 to 0.720. We characterized these markers for the study of the population as well as the social structure of colonies.
New microsatellite loci confirm hybrid origin, parthenogenetic inheritance, and mitotic gene conversion in the gynogenetic Amazon molly (Poecilia formosa)
Authors: TIEDEMANN R. , MOLL K. , PAULUS K. B. , SCHLUPP I.
Published: March 2007

We describe the first microsatellite loci for the gynogenetic Amazon molly, Poecilia formosa, an all‐female species arisen through hybridization of the bisexual species Poecilia mexicana and Poecilia latipinna. The loci showed one to six alleles and an expected heterozygosity between zero and 0.75. As expected with parthenogenetic inheritance, most loci were either constantly homozygous (five loci) or constantly heterozygous (eight loci). For six loci, both heterozygotes and homozygotes occurred. This and the fact that some loci only showed alleles of one of the ancestral species could indicate genome homogenization through mitotic gene conversion. Our new loci conformed to the hybrid origin of Amazon molly and are also applicable to both ancestral bisexual species.
Isolation of 15 polymorphic microsatellite loci in Acacia hybrid (Acacia mangium×Acacia auriculiformis)
Authors: NG C. H. , KOH S. C. , LEE S. L. , NG K. K. S. , MARK A. , NORWATI M. , WICKNESWARI R.
Published: March 2007

This study reports the isolation of 15 microsatellites in Acacia hybrid (Acacia mangium×Acacia auriculiformis) based on the 5′ anchored polymerase chain reaction technique. Polymorphism of these loci was evaluated in a sample of 24 hybrid individuals. The level of polymorphism ranged from two to eight alleles with an observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.083 to 0.875. These loci were also characterized in both the parental species. The number of alleles ranged from two to six for both A. mangium and A. auriculiformis with the observed heterozygosity values ranging from 0.167 to 0.625 and 0.042 to 0.458 respectively. Five of these loci demonstrated Mendelian inheritance in a segregating F1 population; four presented a distorted ratio and the remaining six did not segregate in progenies as they were homozygous in both parents.
Isolation and characterization of polymorphic microsatellites from red coral grouper (Plectropomus maculatus)
Authors: ZHU Z. Y. , LO L. C. , LIN G. , XU Y. X. , YUE G. H.
Published: March 2007

The red coral grouper, Plectropomus maculatus, is a high value marine food fish species. We isolated the first set of 10 polymorphic microsatellites and examined their polymorphism in two related species: the Malabar grouper Epinephelus malabaricus and the brown‐marbled grouper Epinephelus fuscoguttatus. The average allele number of these 10 microsatellite DNA loci is 9.1/locus with a range of four to 17, whereas the expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.18 to 0.94, averaging 0.76. Five of the 10 markers amplified polymorphic and specific products in E. malabaricus, whereas only four were amplified in E. fuscoguttatus. These microsatellites could be applicable to captive breeding and to the studies on genetic diversity and population structure of grouper wild stocks.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite loci in the highland papaya Vasconcellea × heilbornii V. Badillo (Caricaceae)
Authors: KYNDT TINA , HAEGEMAN ANNELIES , VAN GLABEKE SABINE , MAERTENS INGE , VAN DROOGENBROECK BART , ROLDÁN‐RUIZ ISABEL , GHEYSEN GODELIEVE
Published: March 2007

Nine polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified in the tropical plant Vasconcellea ×heilbornii and used to estimate allelic diversity in two populations of southern Ecuador. Allelic richness ranged from two to five alleles, observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.150 to 0.947 and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.186 to 0.701. Most of these markers also amplified microsatellite loci in two other Vasconcellea species (Vasconcellea stipulata and Vasconcellea cundinamarcensis). Hence, these markers will be useful for population genetic analysis and the evaluation of genetic diversity and gene flow in these species.
pasos (parental allocation of singles in open systems): a computer program for individual parental allocation with missing parents
Authors: DUCHESNE PIERRE , CASTRIC TANGUY , BERNATCHEZ LOUIS
Published: March 2007

pasos is a parental allocation program designed to identify collected parents based on individual multilocus genotypes while detecting missing parents when a proportion of them have not been collected. It makes use of restricted error tolerance in order to distinguish between a partially incorrect genotype from a false parent's genotype. pasos also introduces the technique of sequence allocation allowing the user to obtain estimates of the proportion of missing parents and of allocation correctness. The pasos interface is very similar to the one found in papa, its closed system counterpart (Duchesne et al. 2002). A help file thoroughly describes all technical terms such as error modelling, parameters and procedures. pasos can be downloaded free of charge from: http://www.bio.ulaval.ca/louisbernatchez/.
Locus effects and sources of error in noninvasive genotyping
Authors: BUCHAN JASON C. , ARCHIE ELIZABETH A. , VAN HORN RUSSELL C. , MOSS CYNTHIA J. , ALBERTS SUSAN C.
Published: March 2007

In spite of more than a decade of research on noninvasive genetic sampling, the low quality and quantity of DNA in noninvasive studies continue to plague researchers. Effects of locus size on error have been documented but are still poorly understood. Further, sources of error other than allelic dropout have been described but are often not well quantified. Here we analyse the effects of locus size on allelic dropout, amplification success and error rates in noninvasive genotyping studies of three species, and quantify error other than allelic dropout.
Ten new polymorphic microsatellite loci for North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) and their utility in related mustelids
Authors: BEHELER AMANDA S. , FIKE JENNIFER A. , DHARMARAJAN GUHA , RHODES OLIN E. , SERFASS THOMAS L.
Published: March 2007

We describe 10 novel North American river otter (Lontra canadensis) polymorphic microsatellite loci. Individuals from two river drainages in New York were sampled, and the number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 12 (Drainage 1) and two to 10 (Drainage 2). Observed heterozygosities ranged from 0.21 to 0.83 (Drainage 1) and 0.20 to 0.80 (Drainage 2). Preliminary screening revealed that loci amplified in five other mustelids [Martes pennanti (n = 6), Martes fiona (n = 8), Mustela frenata (n = 8), Mustela erminea (n = 8) and Mustela vison (n = 5)].
Polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers for a relictual angiosperm Cercidiphyllum japonicum Sieb. et Zucc. and their utility for Cercidiphyllum magnificum
Authors: ISAGI Y. , KUDO M. , OSUMI K. , SATO T. , SAKIO H.
Published: March 2007

The genus Cercidiphyllum is considered to be a primitive, relictual angiosperm, with two extant species occurring in limited areas of East Asia. We developed seven microsatellite markers for Cercidiphyllum japonicum, of which, five showed a clear, strong single band for each allele. The average number of alleles and observed heterozygosity were 26.2 and 0.82, respectively. Three pairs of polymerase chain reaction primers successfully amplified the DNA of the other species, Cercidiphyllum magnificum.
Additional microsatellites for Sparus aurata and cross‐species amplification within the Sparidae family
Authors: BROWN R. C. , TSALAVOUTA M. , TERZOGLOU V. , MAGOULAS A. , MCANDREW B. J.
Published: March 2007

Six new microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized in 32 individuals from a farm population of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata). Expected heterozygosity at all loci was high, ranging from 0.835 to 0.958 with between 10 and 27 alleles per locus. A multiplex polymerase chain reaction protocol was developed using four of the loci. Cross‐species amplification of the loci was tested in six species of the Sparidae family and four loci were successfully amplified in two or more related species.
Microsatellite loci for behavioural studies of Eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus: Aves)
Authors: ADCOCK G. J. , HEINSOHN R. , EBERT D. , AMINI N. , PEAKALL R.
Published: March 2007

Ten polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from the cooperatively breeding and sexually dichromatic Eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus). Nine loci were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and unlinked. One locus, Ero1, was presumed to be sex‐linked since females, the heterogametic sex, were all homozygous, whereas 72% of males were heterozygous. A DNA database search revealed that Ero8 is probably an independent isolation of the microsatellite locus AgGT83 of the parrot Amozona guildingii. With high heterozygosity (0.41–0.89) and number of alleles (two to 13), these loci should prove useful for investigating the mating system of these unusual Australasian parrots.
Simple sequence repeat markers for species in the Fusarium oxysporum complex
Authors: BOGALE M. , WINGFIELD B. D. , WINGFIELD M. J. , STEENKAMP E. T.
Published: March 2007

We describe nine simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers developed for studying Fusarium oxysporum. Allelic diversity at the nine loci ranged from 0.003 to 0.895, with a total of 71 alleles among 64 isolates. These markers will facilitate studies on relationships amongst isolates of F. oxysporum.
Microsatellite loci for population and behavioural studies of Horsfield's bronze‐cuckoo (Chalcites basalis: Aves)
Authors: ADCOCK G. J. , LANGMORE N. E. , MULDER R. A. , KILNER R. M.
Published: March 2007

Eight polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified for Horsfield's bronze‐cuckoo (Chalcites basalis). These include seven newly isolated loci from cuckoo genomic libraries enriched for GA and GAAA repeat‐containing clones. These loci have a mean expected heterozygosity of 0.71, a mean number of alleles of 13.8 and a combined exclusion probability (one parent known) of 0.9999. Two loci (Cba01 and Cba07) showed a significant deficiency of heterozygotes and may therefore have null alleles, although this effect could be the result of nonrandom population sampling.
Isolation and characterization of 15 microsatellite loci from mango (Mangifera indica L.) and cross‐species amplification in closely related taxa
Authors: SCHNELL R. J. , OLANO C. T. , QUINTANILLA W. E. , MEEROW A. W.
Published: March 2007

We report here on the development and characterization of 15 microsatellite loci isolated from Mangifera indica L. These markers were evaluated using 59 Florida cultivars and four related species from the USDA germplasm collection for mango. Two loci were monomorphic and 13 polymorphic, with two to seven alleles per locus. Four loci departed significantly from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and have significant heterozygote deficiency. Nine loci exhibited significant linkage disequilibrium. Cross‐species amplification was successful in four related species. These loci are being used to investigate patterns of genetic variation within M. indica and between closely related species.
Microsatellite markers for assessing DNA polymorphism of Emericella nidulans in nature
Authors: HOSID E. , GRISHKAN I. , FRENKEL Z. , WASSER S. P. , NEVO E. , KOROL A.
Published: March 2007

Based on genome sequence of Emericella nidulans, primers for 25 microsatellites were designed, of which, seven were chosen as polymorphic markers (five to 12 alleles). Simple sequence repeat (SSR) polymorphism was tested in 44 isolates from extremely arid soils of the southern Negev desert, Israel and some related species of Aspergillus. The SSR marker set appears suitable for population studies in diverse ecological conditions.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in the brown treecreeper (Climacteris picumnus) and cross‐species amplification in the white‐throated treecreeper (Cormobates leucophaeus)
Authors: DOERR ERIK D.
Published: March 2007

Eight polymorphic microsatellite markers were developed for the brown treecreeper, Climacteris picumnus. The number of alleles ranged from three to 25 per locus with observed heterozygosities between 0.05 and 0.76. Seven of the eight primer pairs also amplified polymorphic microsatellite loci in the white‐throated treecreeper (Cormobates leucophaeus). These markers are likely to be useful for population genetic and parentage studies in any of the Australasian treecreepers (Climacteridae) and are the first genetic markers developed for any member of this passerine family.
Isolation of highly polymorphic microsatellite markers from the intertidal barnacle Chthamalus montagui Southward
Authors: PANNACCIULLI FEDERICA G. , PIYAPATTANAKORN SANIT , BISHOP JOHN D. D. , HAWKINS STEPHEN J. , MACLEAN NORMAN
Published: March 2007

This study reports the isolation and characterization of seven highly polymorphic microsatellite loci in Chthamalus montagui (Crustacea, Cirripedia). The loci were isolated from a library constructed from genomic DNA enriched for CA repeats. The markers yielded three to 43 alleles per locus (mean 16.7) in samples averaging 49 individuals. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.08 to 0.58 (mean 0.39). These microsatellite loci will be valuable tools for population genetic studies of this species.
Polymorphic microsatellite DNA markers for the rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata)
Authors: HASEGAWA O. , ISHIBASHI Y. , ABE S.
Published: March 2007

Eight polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated from the partial genomic library of the rhinoceros auklet Cerorhinca monocerata. The heterozygosities observed at the isolated loci using eight primer sets in 46 nestlings from one breeding colony in Japan ranged from 0.311 to 0.773, and all but one locus did not deviate from the Hardy–Weinberg expectations. Cross‐species amplification in the tufted puffin Fratercula cirrhata was successfully performed using six of the eight primer sets, indicating their applicability to this species.
gerud 2.0: a computer program for the reconstruction of parental genotypes from half‐sib progeny arrays with known or unknown parents
Authors: JONES ADAM G.
Published: March 2007

Large groups of related progeny, as can be collected from discrete egg masses or fruits, present excellent opportunities for parentage analysis by allowing the reconstruction of parental genotypes. Current techniques of parental genotypic reconstruction require the knowledge of at least one parental genotype. Here, I present a new computer program that reconstructs parental genotypes when no parents are known, provided that the progeny array contains only full and half siblings. The prospects for successfully reconstructing parental genotypes for such progeny arrays with unknown parents are nearly as good as those for the case when one parent is known with certainty.
colonise: a computer program to study colonization processes in metapopulations
Authors: FOLL MATTHIEU , GAGGIOTTI OSCAR E.
Published: March 2007

colonise is a user‐friendly Microsoft® Windows software for the study of colonization events in natural populations. It determines the composition of the newly colonized population and makes inferences about the factors that influenced individuals to establish a new population. colonise uses a hierarchical Bayesian model to combine multilocus genotype data with demographic and environmental data, and a reversible jump Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm to perform posterior density estimations. The software is written in C and C + + for the graphical user interface and is available at http://www2.ujf‐grenoble.fr/leca/presentation.html. The software integrates a tool to draw posterior density functions (histogram, running mean, traces, etc.) and to estimate parameters from them (mean, mode, variance, HPDI, etc.).
A technique for the rapid extraction of microalgal DNA from single live and preserved cells
Authors: RICHLEN M. L. , BARBER P. H.
Published: March 2007

Molecular methods are increasingly being used in the study of harmful microalgae; however, DNA extraction techniques have imposed limitations on the species and questions studied, with research primarily restricted to cultured specimens. Here we describe a simple method that merges two existing techniques for DNA extraction from live and preserved single dinoflagellate cells. DNA was successfully isolated from live single cells of Gambierdiscus toxicus Adachi et Fukuyo, 1979 and cells preserved using formalin/methanol fixation. This method supplements existing techniques and expands the scope of genetics studies conducted on dinoflagellates to include routine molecular analysis of single cells isolated from field samples.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers in Ijima's leaf warbler, Phylloscopus ijimae (Aves: Sylviidae)
Authors: SAITO D. S. , SAITOH T. , NISHIUMI I.
Published: March 2007

Microsatellite markers were isolated from Ijima's leaf warbler, Phylloscopus ijimae. From an enriched genomic library and using the fast isolation by AFLP of sequences containing repeats (FIASCO) method, 10 polymorphic loci were obtained. Four to 12 alleles were identified in an analysis of 23 Ijima's leaf warblers, with the degree of heterozygosity ranging from 0.35 to 0.87. The markers were tested in four species of Phylloscopus and two other non‐Phylloscopus species of Sylviidae. Some loci were successfully amplified and showed polymorphism in Phylloscopus species, whereas amplification in the non‐Phylloscopus species was less successful.
dropout: a program to identify problem loci and samples for noninvasive genetic samples in a capture‐mark‐recapture framework
Authors: McKELVEY K. S. , SCHWARTZ M. K.
Published: March 2007

AbstractGenotyping error, often associated with low‐quantity/quality DNA samples, is an important issue when using genetic tags to estimate abundance using capture‐mark‐recapture (CMR).dropout, an MS‐Windows program, identifies both loci and samples that likely contain errors affecting CMR estimates.dropoutuses a ‘bimodal test’, that enumerates the number of loci different between each pair of samples, and a ‘difference in capture history test’ (DCH) to determine those loci producing the most errors. Importantly, the DCH test allows one to determine that a data set is error‐free.dropouthas been evaluated in McKelvey & Schwartz (2004) and is now available online.
Comprehensive DNA barcode coverage of North American birds
Authors: KERR KEVIN C. R. , STOECKLE MARK Y. , DOVE CARLA J. , WEIGT LEE A. , FRANCIS CHARLES M. , HEBERT PAUL D. N.
Published: March 2007

DNA barcoding seeks to assemble a standardized reference library for DNA‐based identification of eukaryotic species. The utility and limitations of this approach need to be tested on well‐characterized taxonomic assemblages. Here we provide a comprehensive DNA barcode analysis for North American birds including 643 species representing 93% of the breeding and pelagic avifauna of the USA and Canada. Most (94%) species possess distinct barcode clusters, with average neighbour‐joining bootstrap support of 98%. In the remaining 6%, barcode clusters correspond to small sets of closely related species, most of which hybridize regularly. Fifteen (2%) currently recognized species are comprised of two distinct barcode clusters, many of which may represent cryptic species. Intraspecific variation is weakly related to census population size and species age. This study confirms that DNA barcoding can be effectively applied across the geographical and taxonomic expanse of North American birds. The consistent finding of constrained intraspecific mitochondrial variation in this large assemblage of species supports the emerging view that selective sweeps limit mitochondrial diversity.
Isolation and characterization of short tandem repeats in an invasive swimbladder nematode, parasitic in Atlantic freshwater eels, Anguillicola crassus
Authors: WIELGOSS SÉBASTIEN , SANETRA MATTHIAS , MEYER AXEL , WIRTH THIERRY
Published: March 2007

We describe the isolation and characterization of seven polymorphic short tandem repeats (STR) for the eel parasite Anguillicola crassus. This invasive swimbladder nematode endemic in East Asia was recently introduced into Europe. The number of alleles for each STR ranged from 13 to 39 per locus with observed heterozygosities between 0.49 and 0.98. The Taiwanese population displayed higher genetic diversity compared to the Irish sample, an observation consistent with the Asian biogeographical origin of the nematode. Availability of the reported STR will facilitate the investigation of the population genetic structure with regard to multiple invasions.
Performance Measure Congruity and the Balanced Scorecard
Authors: BUDDE JÖRG
Published: March 2007

This paper studies the incentive effects of a balanced scorecard within a multitask agency framework under both formal and relational contracts. First, the main characteristics of the balanced scorecard are analyzed with respect to performance measure congruity. It is shown that under complete verifiability, a properly designed balanced scorecard is capable of perfectly aligning the interests of owners and employees by means of an explicit contract. I then investigate whether subjective performance evaluation is beneficial when not all the scorecard measures are contractible. It emerges that congruity of the contractible scorecard measures constrains a purely implicit incentive contract, but the first‐best solution may still be obtained through a combination of formal and relational contracts. Furthermore, a purely explicit contract in most cases can be improved by incorporating subjective rewards.
Directional Preferences, Information Processing, and Investors' Forecasts of Earnings
Authors: HALES JEFFREY
Published: March 2007

This paper investigates the effects of preferences on judgments in an investing context, where investors should be motivated to interpret information objectively, yet have clear preferences with respect to what the information they are evaluating conveys (i.e., a gain or a loss on their investment). The results of the experiment are consistent with theories of motivated reasoning that predict when and in what manner directional preferences affect how information is processed. Specifically, investors are motivated to agree unthinkingly with information that suggests they might make money on their investment, but disagree with information that suggests they might lose money. In disagreeing, long investors expect earnings to be relatively high and short investors expect earnings to be relatively low. These results have implications not only for understanding investor behavior, but also for understanding the biased behavior of market participants who face conflicts of interest, such as analysts, managers, and auditors, by providing direct evidence that such behavior can arise for purely psychological reasons.
A TAXONOMIC STUDY OF HAFNIOMONAS (CHLOROPHYCEAE) BASED ON A COMPARATIVE EXAMINATION OF CULTURED MATERIAL1
Authors: Nakada Takashi , Suda Shoichiro , Nozaki Hisayoshi
Published: March 2007

We studied the taxonomy of Hafniomonas species (Chlorophyceae) by LM and EM and DNA sequence analysis on eight culture strains, including six new isolates collected from various localities in Japan. The strains could be clearly delineated into five species, Hafniomonas reticulata (Korshikov) H. Ettl et Moestrup, H. montana (Geitler) H. Ettl et Moestrup, H. laevis Nakada, Suda et Nozaki sp. nov., H. conica (H. Ettl) Nakada et Nozaki stat. nov., and H. turbinea Nakada et Nozaki sp. nov., based on differences in cell shape, cell size, chloroplast surface, the number of contractile vacuoles, stigma ultrastructure, and muciferous vesicles at the periphery of protoplasts. Phylogenetic analyses of 18S rRNA and P700 chl a–apoprotein A2 (psaB) gene sequences demonstrated that all Hafniomonas species constituted a robust clade in which four strains of H. reticulata formed a monophyletic group. These sequence data also showed sister relationships between H. montana and H. laevis, and between H. conica and H. turbinea. We also provided a Latin description of H. heom Nakada et Nozaki sp. nov., which was previously identified as H. reticulata.
SPORE RELEASE IN ACROCHAETIUM SP. (RHODOPHYTA) IS BACTERIALLY CONTROLLED1
Authors: Weinberger Florian , Beltran Jessica , Correa Juan A. , Lion Ulrich , Pohnert Georg , Kumar Naresh , Steinberg Peter , Kloareg Bernard , Potin Philippe
Published: March 2007

The facultative red algal epiphyte Acrochaetium sp. liberated spores preferentially and recruited more successfully in laboratory cultures when its host Gracilaria chilensis C. J. Bird, McLachlan et E. C. Oliveira was present. The same effect was also induced by cell‐free medium from G. chilensis, suggesting it contained a molecular signal. Antibiotics prevented spore release in Acrochaetium sp., even when G. chilensis was present, suggesting a prokaryotic origin of the signal. Simultaneous application of N‐butyl‐homoserine‐lactone (BHL) restored the spore‐release capacity, which demonstrated that spore release was not directly inhibited by the antibiotics and indicated that bacterially generated N‐acyl‐homoserine‐lactones (AHLs) regulate spore release. An involvement of AHL was further indicated by the fact that two different halofuranone inhibitors of AHL receptors also inhibited spore release when they were applied at relatively low concentrations. Of seven different AHLs tested, only BHL induced the effect. However, BHL was only active at relatively high concentrations (100 μM), and it was not detected in spore‐release‐inducing medium of G. chilensis. Another water‐soluble AHL or an AHL structure analog is therefore probably the active compound in G. chilensis cultures. The data presented demonstrate that life cycle completion in Acrochaetium sp. strongly depends on bacteria, which are not always present in sufficient numbers on the alga itself. Exogenous bacteria that are associated with G. chilensis or with other potential substrates may therefore trigger timely spore liberation in Acrochaetium sp., provided that the necessary concentration of AHL is reached. This first finding of AHL perception in a red alga confirms that AHL signalling is more widespread among eukaryotes than was thought until recently. However, spore release of a second red alga, Sahlingia subintegra (Rosenv.) Kornmann, was unaffected by AHL, and the reaction observed is therefore not universal.
REPRODUCTION AND MORPHOLOGICAL VARIATION IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA POPULATIONS OF THE LOWER INTERTIDAL KELPEGREGIA MENZIESII(LAMINARIALES)1
Authors: Henkel Sarah K. , Murray Steven N.
Published: March 2007

IntertidalEgregia menziesii(Turner) Aresch. populations were studied at three Southern California sites to determine temporal and spatial patterns of reproduction and morphology. The timing of sporophyll production and sporophyte recruitment was similar at all sites. Sporophyll production was much greater during winter periods of colder seawater temperatures and shorter day lengths. Sporophyte recruitment occurred from spring through midsummer, ∼5 months following maximal sporophyll production. Lateral blade morphologies varied in a consistent manner, suggesting a developmental mechanism for form variation inEgregiathalli. Spatulate blades dominated shorter axes and the bases of longer axes, whereas filiform laterals became abundant toward the tips of longer axes. Filiform laterals (9.8 mg O2·g−1·h−1) had higher light‐saturated net photosynthetic rates than spatulate laterals (6.8 mg O2·g−1·h−1), resulting in a 12% increase in the productivity ofEgregiaper meter of filiform frond.
DOES ALLELOPATHY CONTRIBUTE TO CYLINDROSPERMOPSIS RACIBORSKII (CYANOBACTERIA) BLOOM OCCURRENCE AND GEOGRAPHIC EXPANSION?1
Authors: Figueredo Cleber C. , Giani Alessandra , Bird David F.
Published: March 2007

Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Wołosz.) Seenayya et Subba Raju is a planktonic filamentous cyanobacterium whose sudden worldwide proliferation and ability to produce toxins are a reason for concern. In this paper, we suggest that its ecological dominance might be explained by antagonistic interaction with other phytoplankton species due to production of allelopathic metabolites. To test this hypothesis, experiments were run with exudates of natural phytoplankton and C. raciborskii strains isolated from Lagoa Santa, a small natural lake in southeastern Brazil, where this species has become dominant in recent years. The exudates were added to different algal species obtained from the same environment and maintained in culture. After 24 h incubation, PAM fluorometry was used to compare control and treatment photosynthetic responses (relative electron transport rate) to the dissolved extracellular products. Results indicate that most of the target species were sensitive to C. raciborskii exudates, which showed strong inhibitory effects on their photosynthetic activities. These results provide evidence that allelopathy may offer a competitive benefit to C. raciborskii and contribute to its stable dominance in Lagoa Santa. A potential allelopathic advantage could also help to explain the geographic expansion of this species at midlatitudes.
Beta‐Subunits Are Important Modulators of the Acute Response to Alcohol in Human BK Channels
Authors: Feinberg‐Zadek Paula L. , Treistman Steven N.
Published: March 2007

Background: The BK channel (a Ca2+‐activated potassium ion channel encoded by the slo gene) has been defined as a target of alcohol action in a number of preparations, possibly serving as primary mediator of intoxication in the Caenorhabditis elegans model system. However, we know little of the actions of alcohol on human BK, nor the consequences of BK subunit composition on alcohol action.

Methods: Here, we use human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells to express various subunit combinations (hslo α+β1 or β4) of human BK, and examine the acute actions of alcohol on this channel using single channel recording techniques.

Results: The human channel is potentiated by alcohol, although the presence of the β1, and to a lesser extent, β4‐subunit, significantly reduced acute ethanol potentiation. Potentiation increased with concentration up to an asymptote, at which point potentiation decreased. The concentration of the asymptote differed according to subunit composition. The mechanism of potentiation was also subunit‐dependent, with 25 mM ethanol affecting the mean open time of hSlo+β4 channels, whereas channel open time was unaffected by the presence of β1. The possibility that the known effect of the β‐subunit on calcium sensitivity accounts for its modulation of acute alcohol action is discussed.

Conclusion: Our data reinforce the idea that, as in other systems, BK may play a major role in alcohol's actions in humans, and highlight the potential role of channel subunit composition in the response to alcohol.
Proarrhythmia as a Class Effect of Quinolones: Increased Dispersion of Repolarization and Triangulation of Action Potential Predict Torsades de Pointes
Authors: MILBERG PETER , HILKER EKKEHARD , RAMTIN SHAHRAM , CAKIR YILMAZ , STYPMANN JÖRG , ENGELEN MARKUS A. , MÖNNIG GEROLD , OSADA NANI , BREITHARDT GÜNTER , HAVERKAMP WILHELM , ECKARDT LARS
Published: March 2007

Background:Numerous noncardiovascular drugs prolong repolarization and thereby increase the risk for patients to develop life‐threatening tachyarrhythmias of the torsade de pointes (TdP) type. The development of TdP is an individual, patient‐specific response to a repolarization‐prolonging drug, depending on the repolarization reserve. The aim of the present study was to analyze the underlying mechanisms that discriminate hearts that will develop TdP from hearts that will not develop TdP. We therefore investigated the group of quinolone antibiotics that reduce repolarization reserve via IKrblockade in an intact heart model of proarrhythmia.

Methods and Results:In 47 Langendorff‐perfused, AV‐blocked rabbit hearts, ciprofloxacin (n = 10), ofloxacin (n = 14), levofloxacin (n = 10), and moxifloxacin (n = 13) in concentrations from 100 μM to 1,000 μM were infused. Eight monophasic action potentials (MAPs) and an ECG were recorded simultaneously. After incremental pacing at cycle lengths from 900 ms to 300 ms to compare the action potential duration, potassium concentration was lowered to provoke TdP. All antibiotics led to a significant increase in QT interval and MAP duration, and exhibited reverse‐use dependence. Eight simultaneously recorded MAPs demonstrated an increase in dispersion of repolarization in the presence of all antibiotics. MAP triangulation (ratio: MAP90/50) and fluctuation of consecutive action potentials were increased for all tested drugs at high concentrations. In the presence of low potassium concentration, all quinolones led to TdP: ciprofloxacin, 4 out of 10 (40%); ofloxacin, 3 out of 14 (21%); moxifloxacin, 9 out of 13 (69%); and levofloxacin, 2 out of 10 (20%). Hearts that developed TdP demonstrated a significant greater influence on dispersion of repolarization and on triangulation as compared with hearts without TdP.

Conclusion:Quinolone antibiotics may be proarrhythmic due to a significant effect on myocardial repolarization. The individual response of a heart to develop TdP in this experimental model is characterized by a greater effect on dispersion of repolarization and on triangulation of action potential as compared with hearts that do not develop TdP.
Initial Experience with a Novel Remote‐Guided Magnetic Catheter Navigation System for Left Ventricular Scar Mapping and Ablation in a Porcine Model of Healed Myocardial Infarction
Authors: RAY INDRANILL BASU , DUKKIPATI SRINIVAS , HOUGHTALING CHRISTOPHER , MCPHERSON CHRISTINA D. , KASTELEIN NATHAN , RUSKIN JEREMY N. , REDDY VIVEK Y.
Published: March 2007

Objective: This study examined the feasibility of using a remote magnetic catheter navigation system (MNS) in concert with an EAM system to perform detailed left ventricular scar mapping and ablation in a porcine model of healed myocardial infarction.

Background: Substrate‐based catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) involves detailed electroanatomical mapping (EAM) of the ventricles. While a safe and effective procedure, VT ablation is nonetheless uncommonly performed, due in part to the technical challenges related to ventricular mapping.

Methods: Using a prototype EAM system (CARTO‐RMT), seven chronically infarcted swine were mapped using either: (i) a standard manually manipulated catheter or (ii) a magnetic remotely manipulated (Niobe) catheter. A total of 191 ± 54 and 221 ± 64 points were acquired to map the chamber either manually or remotely, respectively.

Results: Procedure times were longer remotely (94 ± 22 vs. 59 ± 19 minute, P = 0.004; and 27 ± 8 vs. 18 ± 3 sec/point, P = 0.04), but this became less apparent with increased operator experience. However, the fluoroscopy time was significantly shorter with remote mapping (56 ± 56 vs. 244 ± 67 sec/map, P = 0.03). The calculated scar size was comparable between the two methods (16.3 ± 4.9 vs. 16.4 ± 4.8 cm2, P = 0.37). Pathologic examination confirmed that the MNS was able to precisely deliver radiofrequency lesions to the scar borders. Using the MNS, the error to reach an evenly distributed set of endocardial targets was 6.6 ± 3.6 mm and 4.6 ± 2.0 mm, using transseptal and retrograde approaches, respectively.

Conclusions: Ventricular mapping using this remote navigation paradigm is technically possible and requires minimal fluoroscopy exposure, potentially facilitating ventricular substrate mapping and ablation.
Age‐ and Sex‐Related Differences in the Tissue Doppler Imaging Parameters of Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction
Authors: Park Hyeun S. , Naik Sanjay D. , Aronow Wilbert S. , Ahn Chul W. , McClung John A. , Belkin Robert N.
Published: March 2007

Background: The effect of age and gender on tissue Doppler imaging measurements comparing the septal and mitral annulus needs to be investigated. Methods: We investigated in 276 outpatients in a university cardiology practice the relationship of age and gender to left atrial (LA) size, LA volume, mitral pulse‐wave Doppler E/A ratio, E/Ea ratios by tissue Doppler image of mitral annular velocity (TDI), and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) by TDI. Results: Mitral E/A inflow was statistically decreased with age. E/Ea ratios of the lateral and mean of both lateral and septal annulus showed a statistical increase with age, while the E/Ea ratio of the septal annulus did not correlate with age. When comparing men and women of all ages, the mean LA volume for men was 59.2 cm3± 24.36 cm3 versus 48.54 cm3± 16.14 cm3 (P‐value < 0.0001) and the mean LA size was 4.0 + 0.51 cm for men and 3.65 + 0.47 for women (P‐value < 0.0001). There was no statistical difference between men and women when looking at mitral E/A inflow ratio, deceleration time, E/Ea ratio of the septal annulus, E/Ea ratio of the lateral annulus, E/Ea ratio of the mean of both septal and lateral annulus, and grades of LVDD. Conclusion: In patients 70 years of age or older, the mean diastolic grade was mild‐to‐moderate LVDD when using lateral or mean of septal and lateral annular measurements. When only the septal annular measurements were used to determine diastolic grade, all four age groups showed a mean of mildly to moderately impaired LVDD and showed no correlation with age. There were no differences in tissue Doppler imaging measurements between men and women.
Role of Tissue Doppler and Color M‐Mode Imaging for Evaluation of Diastolic Function in Ambulatory Patients with LV Systolic Dysfunction
Authors: Rovner Aleksandr , Waggoner Alan D. , Mathews Santhosh J. , Dávila‐Román Víctor G. , Fuentes Lisa de las
Published: March 2007

Introduction: Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and color M‐mode (CMM) indices provide assessment of left ventricular (LV) relaxation when combined with pulse‐wave Doppler (PWD)‐derived transmitral inflow, allows for estimation of LV filling pressures. However, use of these indices in patients with LV systolic dysfunction (LVSD) has not been well characterized.
Methods and Results: The study included 115 patients (age 58 ± 11 years, 67% male) with LVSD (LV ejection fraction [LVEF] < 55%). Patients were grouped according to the diastolic LV filling pressure assessed by E/Emseptal ratio as follows: 1) Normal (NFP), E/Emseptal < 8; 2) Intermediate (IFP), E/Emseptal: 8–15; and 3) High (HFP), E/Emseptal >15. Age‐, gender‐, and LVEF‐adjusted analyses were performed. LV volumes and LVEF were significantly different between the groups (P < 0.01). PWD‐derived E‐wave velocity showed a significant stepwise increase across the three groups and the Emseptal velocity demonstrated a stepwise decrease (P < 0.01 for both). CMM‐derived diastolic intra‐ventricular pressure gradient (IVPG) was significantly lower in the HFP compared to the other 2 groups (P < 0.01 for both); Vp was increased in the HFP compared to the other 2 groups (P < 0.01 for both), and Vp exhibited a U‐shape relationship to LVEF.
Conclusion: In patients with LVSD, abnormal LV relaxation is uniformly observed regardless of LV filling pressure. PWD‐derived E‐wave velocity and the TDI‐derived Em velocity are important measurements to identify elevated LV filling pressures. CMM‐derived Vp and IVPG were of limited incremental value for the evaluation of diastolic function in patients with LVSD.