bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empagliflozin reverses obesity and insulin resistance through fat browning and alternative macrophage activation in mice fed a high-fat diet
Authors: Xu Liang , Nagata Naoto , Chen Guanliang , Nagashimada Mayumi , Zhuge Fen , Ni Yinhua , Sakai Yuriko , Kaneko Shuichi , Ota Tsuguhito
Published: October 2019

Objective

We reported previously that empagliflozin—a sodium-glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitor—exhibited preventive effects against obesity. However, it was difficult to extrapolate these results to human subjects. Here, we performed a therapeutic study, which is more relevant to clinical situations in humans, to investigate antiobesity effects of empagliflozin and illustrate the mechanism underlying empagliflozin-mediated enhanced fat browning in obese mice.

Research design and methods

After 8 weeks on a high-fat diet (HFD), C57BL/6J mice exhibited obesity, accompanied by insulin resistance and low-grade chronic inflammation. Cohorts of obese mice were continued on the HFD for an additional 8-week treatment period with or without empagliflozin.

Results

Treatment with empagliflozin for 8 weeks markedly increased glucose excretion in urine, and suppressed HFD-induced weight gain, insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis. Notably, empagliflozin enhanced oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production, leading to increased energy expenditure. Consistently, the level of uncoupling protein 1 expression was increased in both brown and white (WAT) adipose tissues of empagliflozin-treated mice. Furthermore, empagliflozin decreased plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, but increased plasma levels of IL-33 and adiponectin in obese mice. Finally, we found that empagliflozin reduced M1-polarized macrophage accumulation, while inducing the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype of macrophages in the WAT and liver, thereby attenuating obesity-related chronic inflammation.

Conclusions

Treatment with empagliflozin attenuated weight gain by increasing energy expenditure and adipose tissue browning, and alleviated obesity-associated inflammation and insulin resistance by alternative macrophage activation in the WAT and liver of obese mice.
Theory of High Field Transport in β-Ga2O3
Authors: Ghosh Krishnendu , Singisetti Uttam
Published: October 2019

We present a comprehensive review of high-field transport properties in an emerging and trending ultra-widebandgap semiconductor β-Ga2O3. The focus is on the theoretical understanding of the microscopic mechanisms that control the dynamics of farfrom-equilibrium electrons. A manifold of density functional calculations and Boltzmann theory based transport formalism unravels the behavior of the electron distribution under a varied range of external electric fields. The key high-field transport properties that govern electronic device performance, like velocity and ionization co-efficients, are enlightened in detail with physical insights. Anisotropies in the above transport co-efficients are probed from the microscopic investigation of bandstructure, electron-phonon interactions, and electron-electron interactions.
Role of EGFR/ErbB2 and PI3K/AKT/e-NOS inLycium barbarum polysaccharidesAmeliorating Endothelial Dysfunction Induced by Oxidative Stress
Authors: Zhang Wenjuan , Yang Huifang , Zhu Lingqin , Luo Yan , Nie Lihong , Li Guanghua
Published: October 2019

Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBP) are the major ingredients of wolfberry. In this study, we investigated the role of LBP in endothelial dysfunction induced by oxidative stress and the underlying mechanisms using thoracic aortic endothelial cells of rat (RAECs) as a model. We found that Ang II inhibits cell viability of RAECs with 10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mol/L of Ang II treatment for 24[Formula: see text]h most potential ([Formula: see text]), the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is increased by Ang II treatment ([Formula: see text]), and the expression of Occludin and Zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) is decreased by Ang II treatment ([Formula: see text]). However, preincubation of cells with LBP could inhibit the changes caused by Ang II, LBP increased cell viability ([Formula: see text]), decreased the level of ROS ([Formula: see text]), and up-regulated the expression of Occludin ([Formula: see text]) and ZO-1. In addition, Ang II treatment increased the expression of EGFR and p-EGFR (Try1172) and which can be inhibited by LBP. On the contrary, expression of ErbB2, p-ErbB2 (Try1248), PI3K, p-e-NOS (Ser1177) ([Formula: see text]), and p-AKT (Ser473) ([Formula: see text]) was inhibited by Ang II treatment and which can be increased by LBP. Treatment of the cells with inhibitors showed that the regulation of p-e-NOS and p-AKT expression by Ang II and LBP can be blocked by PI3K inhibitor wortmannin but not EGFR and ErbB2 inhibitor AC480. Taken together, our results suggested that LBP plays a critical role in maintaining the integrality of blood vessel endothelium through reduced production of ROS via regulating the activity of EGFR, ErbB2, PI3K/AKT/e-NOS, and which may offer a novel therapeutic option in the management of endothelial dysfunction.
Dual function of lectins — new perspectives in targeted photodynamic therapy
Authors: Bogoeva Vanya , Petrova Lidiya , Bouckaert Julie , Yordanova Anna , Ivanov Ivan , Vanderesse Régis , Frochot Céline
Published: October 2019

Porphyrins and phthalocyanines are photosensitizers (PS) that are used in clinical imaging, detection of cancer cells and are particularly applied in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Many scientists have been focused on the design of different porphyrin compounds. However, similar to other anti-cancer agents, they cannot selectively recognize tumor tissues. Scientists are seeking new methods to overcome this problem and to find appropriate targeted delivery strategies. Plant lectins are especially suitable molecules for such targeting as they preferentially recognize specific antigens on the glycosylated cancer cells. This review will give more detailed information about the dual function of lectins and their interactions with PSs, which is a new perspective in targeted PDT. The implications and potential applications of such studies will also be discussed.
Reachability in Infinite-Dimensional Unital Open Quantum Systems with Switchable GKS–Lindblad Generators
Authors: vom Ende Frederik , Dirr Gunther , Keyl Michael , Schulte-Herbrüggen Thomas
Published: October 2019

In quantum systems theory one of the fundamental problems boils down to: given an initial state, which final states can be reached by the dynamic system in question. Here we consider infinite-dimensional open quantum dynamical systems following a unital Kossakowski–Lindblad master equation extended by controls. More precisely, their time evolution shall be governed by an inevitable potentially unbounded Hamiltonian drift term H0, finitely many bounded control Hamiltonians Hj allowing for (at least) piecewise constant control amplitudes [Formula: see text] plus a bang-bang (i.e., on-off) switchable noise term ГV in Kossakowski–Lindblad form. Generalizing standard majorization results from finite to infinite dimensions, we show that such bilinear quantum control systems allow to approximately reach any target state majorized by the initial one as up to now it only has been known in finite dimensional analogues. The proof of the result is currently limited to the bounded control Hamiltonians Hj and for noise terms ГV with compact normal V.
Information is physics
Authors: Monroe Don
Published: October 2019

Individual bits of information can have direct physical consequences.
Nonequilibrium Aspects of Integrable Models
Authors: Rylands Colin , Andrei Natan
Published: October 2019

Driven by breakthroughs in experimental and theoretical techniques, the study of nonequilibrium quantum physics is a rapidly expanding field with many exciting new developments. Among the manifold ways the topic can be investigated, one-dimensional systems provide a particularly fine platform. The trifecta of strongly correlated physics, powerful theoretical techniques, and experimental viability have resulted in a flurry of research activity over the past decade or so. In this review, we explore the nonequilibrium aspects of one-dimensional systems that are integrable. Through a number of illustrative examples, we discuss nonequilibrium phenomena that arise in such models, the role played by integrability, and the consequences these have for more generic systems.
Anticholinesterase and Antioxidant Potential of Hydromethanolic Extract ofZiziphus mucronata(Rhamnaceae) Leaves on Scopolamine-Induced Memory and Cognitive Dysfunctions in Mice
Authors: Foyet Harquin Simplice , Keugong Wado Eglantine , Ngatanko Abaissou Hervé Hervé , Assongalem Emmanuel Acha , Eyong Oben Kenneth
Published: October 2019

Ziziphus mucronataWilld, also known as “buffalo thorn,” belongs to the family Rhamnaceae. Its bark and leaves are used in folk medicine for the treatment of various deficiencies related to nociception, inflammation, mood, and depression. Still, there is a lack of scientific data regarding its potential effect on learning and memory process. The present study was designed to investigate the neuroprotective potential ofZiziphus mucronata(ZM) on learning and memory impairment in a scopolamine-induced model of dementia in mice. The phytochemical analysis revealed five cyclopeptide alkaloids (sanjoinines) in the extract fromZiziphus Mucronataleaves using LC-HRMS, and the structural characterization of these compounds was determined via MS/MS. Alzheimer-type amnesia was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of scopolamine (1 mg/kg) to mice for 7 consecutive days. ZM (150 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg) and piracetam (150 mg/kg) were orally administrated to mice daily for a period of 14 days. Memory-related behavioural parameters were evaluated using the radial arm maze task for 7 days, Y-maze, and novel object recognition task. At the end of protocol schedule, animals were sacrificed, and the levels of acetylcholinesterase, malondialdehyde, catalase, and superoxide dismutase were determined in brain homogenates. Histological studies of the hippocampus were subsequently performed. The long-term scopolamine-injected group decreased the spontaneous alternation (Y-maze), the discrimination index, and the time taken to explore the new object (novel object recognition task). These effects were significantly reversed by ZM at all the doses tested. In the radial arm maze task, ZM (300 and 600 mg/kg) significantly decreased the working and reference memory errors when compared with the demented group. Scopolamine-mediated changes in AChE activity were also attenuated by ZM in mice. In addition, extract-treated groups showed a significant increase in the level of CAT and SOD activity and decreased levels of MDA in the mice brains, as compared with the control group. The present study suggests that ZM could have an important role in neuroprotection on this scopolamine-induced model of Alzheimer-type dementia.
Endotoxin Engages Mitochondrial Quality Controlviaan iNOS-Reactive Oxygen Species Signaling Pathway in Hepatocytes
Authors: Cyr Anthony , Chambers Lauran , Waltz Paul K. , Whelan Sean P. , Kohut Lauryn , Carchman Evie , Dyer Mitchell , Luciano Jason , Kautza Benjamin , Gomez Hernando D. , Otterbein Leo E. , Rosengart Matthew R. , Shiva Sruti , Zuckerbraun Brian S.
Published: October 2019

Background. Organ injury and dysfunction in sepsis accounts for significant morbidity and mortality. Adaptive cellular responses in the setting of sepsis prevent injury and allow for organ recovery. We and others have shown that part of the adaptive response includes regulation of cellular respiration and maintenance of a healthy mitochondrial population. Herein, we hypothesized that endotoxin-induced changes in hepatocyte mitochondrial respiration and homeostasis are regulated by an inducible nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide (iNOS/NO)-mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) signaling axis, involving activation of the NRF2 signaling pathway.Methods. Wild-type (C57Bl/6) or iNos-/-male mice were subjected to intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injections to simulate endotoxemia. Individual mice were randomized to treatment with NO-releasing agent DPTA-NONOate, mtROS scavenger MitoTEMPO, or vehicle controls. Other mice were treated with scramble orNrf2-specific siRNAviatail vein injection. Primary murine hepatocytes were utilized forin vitrostudies with or without LPS stimulation. Oxygen consumption rates were measured to establish mitochondrial respiratory parameters. Western blotting, confocal microscopy with immunocytochemistry, and rtPCR were performed for analysis of iNOS as well as markers of both autophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis.Results. LPS treatment inhibited aerobic respirationin vitroin wild-type but notiNos-/-cells. Experimental endotoxemiain vivoorin vitroinduced iNOS protein and mtROS production. However, induction of mtROS was dependent on iNOS expression. Furthermore, LPS-induced hepatic autophagy/mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis were significantly attenuated iniNos-/-mice or cells with NO or mtROS scavenging. These responses were rescued iniNos-/-miceviadelivery of NO bothin vivoandin vitro. Conclusions. These data suggest that regulation of mitochondrial quality control following hepatocyte LPS exposure is dependent at least in part on a NO-mtROS signaling network. Further investigation to identify specific agents that modulate this process may facilitate the prevention of organ injury in sepsis.
Early Postural Instability in Parkinson’s Disease: A Biomechanical Analysis of the Pull Test
Authors: Pérez-Sánchez Javier Ricardo , Grandas Francisco
Published: October 2019

Postural instability in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is commonly assessed by the pull test. This clinical test may be biased by the variability of the pull force applied. Our objective was to study the postural responses elicited by reproducible pull forces in healthy subjects and PD patients at different stages of the disease. We performed a multimodal approach that included a systematic analysis of the pull force needed to reach the backward limit of stability (FBLoS) assessed by mechanically produced forces, the displacements of the center of pressure (CoP) recorded on a force platform, and the latencies and patterns of activation of the stabilizing muscles. Comparisons between groups were performed by univariate and multivariate statistical analyses. Sixty-four healthy subjects and 32 PD patients, 22 Hoehn–Yahr (H–Y) stages I-II and 10 H–Y stage III, were studied. In healthy subjects, FBLoS decreased with aging and was lower in females. Mean (SD) FBLoS was 98.1 (48.9) Newtons (N) in healthy subjects, 70.5 (39.8) N in PD patients H–Y stages I-II, and 37.7 (18.9) N in PD patients H–Y stage III. Compared to healthy subjects and when adjusted for age and gender, PD patients H–Y stages I-II exhibited the following: (a) a reduced FBLoS; (b) larger CoP displacements and higher velocities for the same applied force; and (c) combined ankle and hip strategies elicited by less intense pull forces. All of these abnormalities were more pronounced in H–Y stage III PD patients compared to H–Y stages I-II PD patients. In conclusion, patients in the early stages of PD already exhibit a degree of postural instability due to inefficient postural adjustments, and they can more easily be destabilized by small perturbations than healthy subjects. This balance impairment becomes more pronounced in more advanced PD. In the pull test, pull force to step back should be a variable to consider when testing balance in clinical practice.
The Rate of Mesh Erosion after Modified Transobturator Tape (Canal Transobturator Tape) Surgery: Analysis of 5 years’ Outcome and Influencing Factors
Authors: Hong In Kyung , Kim Hwa Cheong , Kim Jeong Jin , Kim Ji Ye , Lee Kyo Won
Published: October 2019

Purpose: To evaluate the long-term cure and complication rates of the canal transobturator tape (TOT) procedure for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in females and assess how to reduce mesh erosion in TOT surgery. Materials and Methods: The canal TOT procedure was developed in 2009 and was effective in mitigating the complications of the original TOT procedure in the short-term follow-up. This study was designed for a long-term follow-up. Between October 2006 and December 2010, 232 consecutive women with stress and mixed urinary incontinence underwent the canal TOT procedure. All patients were followed up by urological examination and self-assessment questionnaires. We performed urodynamic studies in patients with pure SUI symptoms and pelvic examination for all patients 5 years post-surgery. Results: A minimum 5 years follow-up data were available for 144 patients. Complications were evaluated according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Vaginal mesh erosion was reported in 2 patients (1.4%), and the mesh was surgically removed. No bladder or urethral mesh erosion were observed. The subjective and objective cure rates at 5 years were 77.8 and 94.5% respectively. Conclusions: Canal TOT procedure is an effective minimally invasive procedure with satisfactory results for female SUI in the long term. Compared to the rate of mesh erosion after the original TOT procedure, this technique might be useful in preventing mesh erosion because the mesh is always anatomically well positioned.
A Comparison of International Management Guidelines for Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Hendricks Aleksi J. , Hsiao Jennifer L. , Lowes Michelle A. , Shi Vivian Y.
Published: October 2019

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis that imparts a significant burden on patients and presents a management challenge for healthcare providers. As attention to this debilitating condition has grown over recent years, our understanding of HS pathogenesis and optimal treatment approaches continues to evolve. Nine HS treatment guidelines developed by various expert organizations have been published, encompassing therapeutic modalities ranging from topical agents to systemic therapies to procedural interventions. These guidelines demonstrate significant overlap in treatment recommendations and have all been published within the last 5 years. Therefore, we aim to compare and synthesize the recommendations of international HS treatment guidelines and to encourage inter-organizational communication for the development of consensus or staggered publication of recommendations for HS management.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Does Not Lower Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chernin Gil , Chen Shmuel , Ozan Ozgu , Liu Mengdan , Haberman Dan , Perlman Gidon , Ben-Yehuda Ori , Jonas Michael
Published: October 2019

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, most studies used bare-metal stents or first-generation drug-eluting stents, and less guideline-directed therapy to reduce cardiovascular risk was reported in CKD patients. This study investigates the impact of moderate-CKD on patients undergoing PCI in the current era. Methods: Patient level data were pooled from 2 multicenter randomized trials (BIONICS and NIREUS trials) with a near “all-comers” design, comparing PCI with ridaforolimus-eluting stents vs. zotarolimus-eluting stents in patients with CAD. Patients were classified according to the presence or absence of moderate-CKD, defined as creatinine clearance (CrCl) <60 mL/min. We compared baseline characteristics, angiographic findings, and clinical outcomes 1-year post-PCI. Results: 236/2,201 (10.7%) patients had CKD, mean CrCl of 50.3 + 7.8 mL/min. These patients were generally older and more often with hypertension than non-CKD patients, but the use of guideline-directed therapy was similar between the groups. CKD was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular death (hazard ratio [HR] 6.08; 95% CI 2.11–17.51; p < 0.001), but with a reduced occurrence of repeated revascularization, including ischemia-driven revascularization (HR 0.47; 95% CI 0.24–0.92; p < 0.05). The rate of repeated angiography per severe cardiovascular adverse event was significantly lower in the CKD than the non-CKD group (23/38 [61%] vs. 253/334 [76%], p < 0.05). Conclusions: Moderate-CKD in patients with CAD was associated with higher rates of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, yet with a lower risk of revascularization 1-year following PCI. Lack of guideline-directed medical therapy does not explain the adverse outcome of CKD patients.
MYCORRHIZAE IN AGROFORESTRY: A CASE-STUDY
Authors: NUHAMARA S.T.
Published: October 2019

Census of mycorrhizae in Shorea javanica agroforests has been made periodically in the district of Krui, Lampung, Sumatra. Amanita hemibapha (Amanitaceae), Cantharellus cibarius (Cantharella-ceae), Lactarius spp., Russula spp. (Russulaceae) and Scleroderma sp. (Sclerodermataceae) were commonly encountered on the agroforest floor. These mycorrhizal fungi are naturally associated withÂ  the planted trees. The significance of mycorrhizae for the maximization of growth and sustained productivity of resin is discussed as well as the need to design well defined agroforestry systems to facilitate growth and to improve production management techniques.
FRUIT PRODUCTION OF A SIX-YEAR OLD SHOREA STENOPTERA PLANTATION AT HAURBENTES, BOGOR, INDONESIA
Authors: SUZUKI EIZI
Published: October 2019

AÂ  six-yearÂ  oldÂ  plantationÂ  ofÂ  ShoreaÂ  stenopteraÂ  at Haurbentes,Â  BogorÂ  floweredÂ  forÂ  theÂ  firstÂ  timeÂ  on October, 1987. In plots of 270 m2, 12 of the 32 trees had opened flowers. The average heights of flowering and non-flowering trees were 400 cm and 270 cm, respectively. The flowers and fruits were counted four times from October 28, 1987 until February 17, 1988. In October, a total of 24313 flowers existed and 1.9% of them became mature fruits on February, 1988. The fruit production was 308 kg/ha and 133 kg/ha in fresh and dry weights, respectively.
CRITICAL PERIOD OF MUNGBEAN (PHASEOLUS RADIATUS L.) TO WEED COMPETITION
Authors: UTOMO I.H.
Published: October 2019

AÂ  fieldÂ  experiment wasÂ  conductedÂ  toÂ  studyÂ  theÂ  criticalÂ  periodÂ  of weedÂ  controlÂ  onÂ  theÂ  cropÂ  of mungbean (Phaseolus radiatus L.). The studies were done in the field of BIOTROP Experimental Station withÂ  theÂ  naturalÂ  existing weedÂ  population.Â  It wasÂ  foundÂ  thatÂ  theÂ  criticalÂ  periodÂ  of mungbeanÂ  to weed competition was from 3-6 weeks after planting.
NOTES ON THE FAMILY AMPULLARIIDAE (GASTROPODA: PROSOBRANCHIA) IN THE PHILIPPINES: I. DIGESTIVE, CIRCULATORY, AND EXCRETORY SYSTEMS
Authors: PAOULAYAN ROBERTO C
Published: October 2019

A total of 232 ampullariid snails collected from 23 sites covering 7 islands in the Philippines were compared conchologically and 200 alcohol-preserved specimens were dissected for anatomical characteristics. Conchological comparison of the shells of the collected snails with that of identified lots from the Senckenberg Natur-museum, Frankfurt, Germany, the British Museum for Natural History, London, England, the Koninklijk Belgisch Instituut voor Natuurwetenschappen, Brussels, Belgium, and the Rijksmuseum voor Natuurwetenschappen, Leiden, Netherlands, revealed the presence of 5 species in the collected samples. These are: P. conica, P. ampullacea, P. mainitensis, P. quadrasi, and P. vittala. The latter 3 species were previously reported as being indigenous to the Philippines. Aside from characteristics of the shell, the morphology of the stomach may be useful for species discrimination. P. quadrasi and P. vittata, however, do not seem to differ anatomically from P. conica.
REVIEW OF AQUACULTURE GENETIC RESEARCHES IN THAILAND
Authors: NA-NAKORN UTHAIRAT
Published: October 2019

NO ABSTACT
CHROMOSOMAL CHARACTERS OF THE INDONESIAN SAND GOBY, OXYELEOTRISMARMORATA BLKR. 1874 (ELEOTRIDAE)*)
Authors: MASAGCA JIMMY T.
Published: October 2019

Karyomorphological investigation of sand goby or marble sleeper (Oxyeleotris marmorata Blkr.) from Cirata Reservoir, West Java, Indonesia was undertaken to determine the modal chromosome number and fundamental number, and to construct the karyotype from somatic metaphase cells of head kidney. A total of 30 fish samples from Cirata Reservoir was sacrificed for direct chromosome preparation by colchicine-citrate-aceto-methanol-Giemsa staining-air drying technique. Chromosome set analysis showed that the modal chromosome number of the test fish is 2n = 46, confirming previous studies. Fundamental number is 50. Two karyotypic formulas were found, i.e. 1) 2n = 46 (4SM + 42A); and 2) 2n = 46 (2M + 2SM + 42A). Key Words: Freshwater fishes, Chromosome analysis, Oxyeleotris marmorata, Indonesia
BIOECOLOGY OF DIORYCTRIA ABIETELLA DENIS AND SCHIFF. A PEST OF CONIFERS IN THE NORTH-WESTERN HIMALAYA
Authors: VERMA T.D
Published: October 2019

Cones and seeds of conifers, such as Pinus roxburghii, P. wallichiana, P. gerardiana, Cedrus deodara, Abies pindrow and Picea smithiana are seriously damaged by Dioryctria abietella Denis and Schiff. (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae) in the North-Western Himalayan region of India. Bioecological studies carried out during 1991 - '92 revealed that the females laid whitish, elliptical eggs singly on the depressed surface of the young cones. The average egg size was 1.00 Â± 0.11 x 0.60 Â±0.08 mm and this stage lasted for 3 - 5 days. The larval stage passed through five instars. All the instars differed in appearance, size and duration and larvae became full-fed in an average of 24.8 Â± 1.9 days. The full-fed larva spun a cocoon around itself, sealed it with white papery membrane and pupated inside the cone or any other outside protected place. The prepupal and pupal periods lasted for 7-8 and 10-14 days, respectively. The pupa was dark brown, 13.8 Â± 0.07 mm in length. Total period from egg to adult varied from 46 to 59 days (52.7 Â±4.8 days). Adults were dirty brown in appearance and were 13.59Â±0.115 mm long with an average wing expanse of 29.0 Â± 1.00 mm. They lived for 4 to 5 days. Under laboratory conditions, the pest completed two generations per year and full-fed larvae of 3rd generation overwintered during September - October. Two larval parasites belonging to order Hymenoptera and Diptera, and a fungal pathogen (Fusarium sp.) were found associated with this pest. The detailed biology, nature and extent of damage, along with its distribution have been discussed and methods of control suggested. Key Words: Insect biology, Insect ecology, Dioryctria abietella, Coniferae, North-Western Himalaya, Forest pests
EFFECTS OF VARIOUS SOIL ENVIRONMENTAL STRESSES ON THE OCCURRENCE, DISTRIBUTION AND EFFECTIVENESS OF VA MYCORRHIZAE
Authors: KHAN A.G.
Published: October 2019

The vesicular - arbuscular (VA) mycorrhizal fungi are geographically ubiquitous soil inhabitants and form universal symbiotic relationship with plants from every phylum. These fungi link host plants with host soils and their biota in the mycorrhizosphere and play an important role in plant health, productivity and soil structure. Although VA mycorrhizal fungi do not show any host specificity, there is increasing evidence that various climatic and edaphic environmental factors such as land use and management practices, physical, chemical and biological properties of host soils and host plant characteristics influence their occurrence, taxonomic distribution and effectiveness. The interaction of these factors with vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizae (VAM) is poorly understood except in a few cases. It is now very clear that VA mycorrhizal associations are ecologically significant factors that require more attention than previously accorded. This paper discusses the occurrence, distribution and significance of VAM in environmentally stressed soil conditions that limit plant growth such as drought, waterlogging and salinity. Key words: Mycorrhizas/Environmental factors/Waterlogging/Soil salinity/Growth development stages/ Inoculum.
NUTRIENT TRANSFER IN VESICULAR-ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAS: A NEW MODEL BASED ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF ATPases ON FUNGAL AND PLANT MEMBRANES
Authors: SMITH F.A. , SMITH S.E.
Published: October 2019

In this paper we review the membrane transport processes that are involved in the transfer of mineral nutrients and organic carbon between the symbiotic partners in mycorrhizas. In particular, we reassess the prevailing hypothesis that transfer in vesicular-arbuscular (VA) mycorrhizas occurs simultaneously and bidirectionally across the same interface and that arbuscules are the main sites of transfer. Using cytochemical techniques, we and our collaborators have reexamined the distribution of ATPases in the arbuscular and intercellular hyphal interfaces in VA mycorrhizas formed between roots of Allium cepa (onion) and the fungus Glomus intraradices. The results showed that H+-ATPases have different localisation on plant and fungal membranes in arbuscular and hyphal interfaces (Gianinazzi-Pearson et al. 1991). While some arbuscular interfaces had H+-ATPase activity on both fungal and plant membranes, in most cases the fungal membrane lacked this activity. In contrast, the plasma membranes of intercellular hyphae always had H+-ATPase and the adjacent root cells did not. This suggests that the different interfaces in a VA mycorrhiza may have different functions. We propose that passive loss of P from the arbuscules is associated with active uptake by the energised (ATPase-bearing) plant membrane and that passive loss of carbohydrate from the root cells is followed by active uptake by the intercellular hyphae. If this model is correct, then variations in "mycorrhizal efficiency" (i.e. the extent to which mycorrhizal plants grow better than non-mycorrhizal controls) might be determined by differences in the numbers of active arbuscules as a proportion of the total fungal biomass within the root.As a first step towards investigating this possibility, we have developed methods for measuring the surface areas of arbuscular and hyphal interfaces in different fungus-host combinations, Glomus spp./ Allium porrum (leek). We have also measured fluxes of P from fungus to plant and have been able to partition these between the arbuscular and total (arbuscular plus hyphal) interfaces. The implications of this work, and suggestions for future investigations of the molecular mechanisms involved in nutrient transfer in mycorrhizas, are discussed.
Key words: Mycorrhizas/Glomus intraradices/ATPases/Allium cepa.
ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI FROM THE RfflZOSPHERES OF SOYBEAN CROPS IN LAMPUNG AND WEST JAVA*)
Authors: KRAMADIBRATA K. , RIYANTI E.I. , SIMANUNGKALIT R.D.M.
Published: October 2019

The occurrence of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in the rhizospheres of field-grown soybean crops in the provinces of Lampung and West Java was examined. Nineteen taxa of AM fungi were identified as follows: Acaulospora delicata, A. Foveata, A. rehmii, A. scrobiculata and A. tuberculata; Gigaspora cf. gigantea and Gigaspora sp. 1; Glomus clavisporum; Glomus cf. fasciculatum, Glomus micro-aggregatum, Glomus sp. 1, Glomus sp. 2, Glomus sp. 3 and Glomus sp. 4; Scutellospora cf. heterogama, Scutellospora cf. pellucida, Scutellospora sp. 1. Scutellospora sp.2. and Scutellospora sp. 3.
Key words: Mycorrhizas/Soybean/Rhizosphere fungi/Identification.
SOURCES OF MYCORRHIZAL INFECTION OF SHOREA ACUMINATA SEEDLINGS UNDER LABORATORY CONDITIONS*)
Authors: LEE Su SEE LEE Su SEE
Published: October 2019

Uninoculated dipterocarp seedlings raised in normal field soil in nurseries were always found to have mycorrhizas after a few months. This study set out to determine whether dipterocarp seedlings could continue to grow and develop in the absence of mycorrhizas and also to determine possible sources of mycorrhizal infection of dipterocarp seedlings raised under laboratory conditions using Shorea acuminata as a typical example. Seedlings were planted in capped or uncapped perspex boxes containing sterile or non-sterile field soil and watered daily with sterile water or tap water. Seedling growth and development of mycorrhizas were monitored at monthly intervals for up to seven months. Seedlings grown in sterile soil remained uninfected after seven months while infection was found in some of the seedlings grown in normal soil regardless of whether they had been watered with tap water or sterile water. This showed that field soil (i.e. under grass) far from the forest contained suitable inoculum for forest tree seedlings. Tap water and the air were not important sources of infection. However, mycorrhizal infection was very uneven indicating that the inoculum was probably very unevenly distributed in the soil or that the inoculum density was rather low. Seedlings grown in sterile soil showed better growth than those grown in normal soil and infection of roots by parasitic fungi in the latter was also observed.
Key words: Mycorrhizas/Plant pathology/lnfections/Shorea acuminata/Seedlings.
EFFECTS OF SOIL STERILIZATION ON THE FORMATION AND FUNCTION OF TWO STRAINS OF PISOLITHUS TINCTORIUS ON EUCALYPTUS UROPHYLLA*)
Authors: AGGANGAN,  BERNIE DELL NELLY S.
Published: October 2019

To examine the effects of soil microbial population on mycorrhizal development and function, Eucalyptus urophylla seedlings were inoculated with two Pisolithus tinctorius isolates and grown in sterile, partly sterile and non-sterile soil. The two isolates of Pisolithus were an effective isolate (H445) collected from under eucalypts in Australia and an isolate (H615) collected from under eucalypts in the Philippines. Soils used were infertile acid soils collected from field sites in Pangasinan, Luzon and Surigao, Mindanao. In both soils, the Australian Pisolithus H445 improved the growth of E. urophylla seedlings more than Philippine isolate H615. The uninoculated seedlings exhibited stunted growth typical of P deficiency. Height at 8 weeks was significantly taller in sterile than in non-sterile soil. A significant interaction effect of inoculation and soil sterilization on height at harvest was observed only in Surigao soil. Soil sterilization had a varied effect on mycorrhizal formation. In Pangasinan soil, root colonization by H445 was significantly greater in non-sterile soil than in sterile soil. Whereas in Surigao soil, root colonization was significantly reduced by 54% from partly sterile to non-sterile soil. On the other hand, H615 showed significant mycorrhizal colonization in non-sterile soil compared from those in partly sterile and sterile soils. The degree of infection did not necessarily correspond to growth promotion in E. urophylla seedlings. These results indicate that the performance of the H445 was markedly affected by the microbial flora of the two soils. Thus, its potential use in the Philippines needs to be thoroughly tested in the field before its widespread use in any inoculation program.
Key words: Pisolithus tinctorius/Laccaria fraterna/Pinus patula/Inoculum/Seedlings/Growth.
FUNGI ISOLATED FROM GROUNDNUTS IN SOME LOCATIONS OF WEST JAVA
Authors: S.DHARMAPUTRA O
Published: October 2019

One hundred and ninety eight groundnut samples were collected from freshly harvested groundnuts (FHG), farmer storage systems (FSS), middlemen warehouses (MW), wholesalers (WS) and retailer sample (RS) during the dry and wet seasons from Cidolog, Cianjur, Sukabumi and Bogor, West Java, Indonesia, in 1990/1991. The moisture content (m.c.), intactness of kernels, and the percentages of groundnut kernels infected by each species of fungi were analyzed. In genera), the m.c. of the samples collected during the dry season was lower than of those collected during the wet season. Also, the m.c. of samples collected from FHG, FSS and MW was higher than of those collected from WS and RS. The m.c. of samples collected from FHG was the highest (12.5-45.75%), but the percentages of damaged kernels were the lowest (2.5-13.8%), because the samples were shelled manually. A total of 25 species of fungi were isolated from samples collected from the 4 localities. They were Acremonium strictum, Aspergillus candidus, A. flavus, A. niger, A. ochraceus, A. tamarii, A. wentii, Botryodiplodia theobromae, Cladosporium cladosporioides, C. sphaerospermum, Eumtium chevalieri, E. repens, E. rubrum, Fusarium equiseti, F. longipes, F. oxysporum, F. semitectum, Mucor sp., Papulaspora sp., Pestalotia sp., Penicillium aethiopicum, P. citrinum, Rhizapus sp., R. stolonifer and Syncephalastrum sp. The predominant fungi in samples collected from Cidolog and Sukabumi during the dry season were Aspergillus wentii, while those collected from Cianjur and Bogor were A. niger. The percentages of kernels infected by A. wentii in samples collected from Cidolog and Sukabumi were between 30-100% and 36-100%, respectively, while those of kernels infected by A. nigerin samples collected from Cianjur and Bogor were between 34-93% and 14-98%, respectively. The predominant fungi in samples collected from each location during the wet season were A. flavus. The percentage of kernels infected by the fungus in samples collected from Bogor was the highest (83-100%).
Key words: Indonesia/West Java/Stored product pests/Groundnut/Fungi/Acremonium strictum/Aspergillussp./Botryodiplodia theobromae/Cladosporium sp./Eurotium sp./Fusarium sp./Mucor sp./Papulasporasp./Pestalotia sp./SPenicillum sp/Rhizopus sp./Syncephalastrum sp./Moisture content.
INFLUENCE OF MEDIA GELLING AGENTS ON ROOT BIOMASS AND IN VITRO VA-MYCORRfflZAL SYMBIOSIS OF CARROT WITH GIGASPORA MARGARITA
Authors: PAL BHATIA NAVEEN , ADHOLEYA ALOK , VERMA ANJALI
Published: October 2019

An in vitro study with Ri-TDNA transformed roots of carrotÂ  (Daucus carota) was carried outÂ  to evaluateÂ  the role of macro-elements contributed as impurities inÂ  the gelling agent (phytagel) over and aboveÂ  those presentÂ  in the minimal (M) medium. Production of root biomass was taken as a measure to quantify the influence of macro-elements added to the minimal medium. The levels of phosphorus when adjusted to 1.19 mg/1 and 1.09 mg/l, lead to dry root biomass production at par with the control. Attempts made to lower the amount of impurities in phytagel by de-ionization using different alkalies, proved NaOH to give the best results in terms of relatively high amount of root biomass. In an in vitro dual culture system with carrot as host and Gigaspora margarita as the vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus, phytagel impurities helped to produce maximum number of infection units and auxiliary cells when phytagel was added to the minimal medium.Key words:Â Â Â  AgrobacteriumÂ Â Â  rhiiogenesfDaucusÂ Â Â  caro/a/GellingÂ Â Â  agents/diasporaÂ Â Â  margarita/Macro- elements/Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhiza/Transformed roots.
INFLUENCE OF INSECT AND SEED SAMPLE SIZE AND HEAT TREATMENT ON THE INFESTATION OF CALLOSOBRUCHVS CHINENS1S (L.) ON MUNGBEAN, VIGNA RADIATA (L) Wilczek *)
Authors: M. BucruANON1 ELISA
Published: October 2019

TheÂ  influenceÂ  ofÂ  differentÂ  insectÂ  andÂ  seedÂ  sampleÂ  sizeÂ  andÂ  heatÂ  treatmentÂ  onÂ  theÂ  infestationÂ  ofÂ  beanÂ  weevil, Callosobruchus chinensis on mungbean,Vjg/m radiata (L.) Wilczek, was studied. Insect and seed sample size as well as varieties/genotype had significant influence in obtaining large responses in the number of eggs and progenies of the bean weevil. Use of at least 10 adult weevils to infest test samples containing at least 40 seeds for a 5-day oviposition period should produce reliable results when infesting mungbean seeds with unsexed weevils. Dry heat treatment was very effective in disinfesting mungbean seeds from the bean weevil in different developmental stages. It improved germination depending upon the condition of the seed before tr eatment and certain temperature limits. A suggestedÂ  treatment for mungbean dismfestation using dry heat would be 60Â°C and 70Â°C forÂ  two-and one-hour treatments, respectively at 12% moisture content. For seeds in bulk, 60Â°C is much preferred.Key words:Â Â  Callosobruchus chinensis/ Insect and seed sample size/Mungbean infestation/Heat treatment
THE EFFECTS OF MILLING DEGREE AND TYPE OF BAG ON FUNGAL INFECTION AND SOME CHEMICAL CONTENTS OF STORED MILLED RICE
Authors: S.DHARMAPUTRA OKKY
Published: October 2019

The effects of milling degree and type of bag on fungal infection of stored milled rice were investigated together with some chemical contents (glucose, amylose, protein and total lipid contents), and changes in moisture content. Rice var. IR 64 with different milling degrees (85, 90, 95 and 100%) packed inÂ  jute and polypropylene bags (1 kg of milled rice/bag) were stored under laboratory conditions with temperature between 24.3-27.3 C and relative humidity 52.6-81.9% for 3 months. The initial moisture content (m.c.) of milled rice was Â± 14%. Three replications (3 bags) were used for each treatment. Each bag was put individually and was arranged randomly on a wooden pallet. The results showed that in general, the increase of milling degree and duration of storage decreased the m.c. Type of bag did not give significant differences on the m.c.Â  Twenty eight fungal species were isolated from rice with different milling degree and bag type during storage. The predominant species was Aspergillus Candidas. Total fungal population decreased withÂ  theÂ  increase of milling degree and duration of storage. Bag type did not give significant differences on totalÂ  fungal population. In general, the increase of milling degree increased glucose content. Glucose content in milled rice packed in jute bag was higher than that in polypropylene bag. Glucose content tended to decrease with theÂ  increase of storage duration. The increase of milling degree increased amylose content in milled rice. Amylose content of milled rice packed in jute bag was lower than that in polypropylene bag. The increase of storage duration decreased amylose content in milled rice. In general, protein content decreased with the increase of milling degree and duration of storage. 1 type did not give significant differences on protein content. TotalÂ  lipid content decreased withÂ  theÂ  increase of milling degree and duration of storage. TotalÂ  lipid content of milled rice packed in jute bag was lower than that in polypropylene bag, but based on chemicalÂ  analysis the difference was not significant. Based on statistical analyses, correlation between the m.c. and total lipid content with total fungalÂ  population was positive. There was no correlation between glucose, amylose and protein contents with total fungal population. Rice with high milling degree can be stored safely for long period, but it has low chemical (nutritional) contents. Key words:Â Â  Milling degree/Bag type/Fungal infection/Chemical content/Milled rice.
INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF CHROMOLAENA ODORATA EMPHASIZING THE CLASSICAL BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
Authors: TJITROSEMITO SOEKISMAN
Published: October 2019

Chromolaena odorata, Siam weed, a very important weed of Java Island (Indonesia) is native to Central and South America. In the laboratory it showed rapid growth (1.15 g/g/week) in the first 8 weeks of its growth. The biomass was mainly as leaves (LAR : 317.50 cm'/g total weight). It slowed down in the following month as the biomass was utilized for stem and branch formation. This behavior supported the growth of C. odorata into a very dense stand. It flowered, fruited during the dry season, and senesced following maturation of seeds from inflorescence branches. These branches dried out, but soon the stem resumed aggressive growth following the wet season. Leaf biomass was affected by the size of the stem in its early phase of regrowth, but later on it was more affected by the number of branches. The introduction of Pareuchaetes pseudoinsulata to Indonesia, was successful only in North Sumatera. In Java it has not been reported to establish succesfully. The introduction of another biological control agent, Procecidochares conneca to Indonesia was shown to be specific and upon release in West Java it established immediately. It spread exponentially in the first 6 months of its release. Field monitoring continues to evaluate the impact of the agents. Other biocontrol agents (Actmole anteas and Conotrachelus) wilt be introduced to Indonesia in 1997 through ACIAR Project on the Biological Control of Chromolaena odorata in Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. Keywords: Indonesia / North Sumatra / West Java / Biological control / Chromolaena odorata i Pareuchaetes pseudoinsulata I Procecidochares conneca.
NUTRIENT STOCKS IN FOUR STAGES OF A LOWLAND RAIN FOREST AT PASIRMAYANG, JAMBI, CENTRAL SUMATRA,
Authors: LESTARI PAMUJI
Published: October 2019

Studies of nutrient cycling of tropical forests should differentiate between dynamic stages of the forest. We studied the nutrient concentration (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) and phytomass of aboveground (living and non living parts) and belowground compartments (soil) in four dynamic stages, namely Building (Bl and B2), and Mature (Ml and M2) stages, for a lowland rain forest. Nutrient concentrations in various compartments differed between the dynamic stages. Bark contains higher nutrient concentration than wood parts, both in stems and branches. Leaves contain higher nutrient concentration than wood parts, both in litterfall and litter. The concentration of K in throughfall is the highest, Ca and Mg perform similar value. Throughfall exhibits lower nutrient concentration than open area rain water. The nutrient concentration of 10-20 cm is higher than in the 0-10 cm soil depth. The phytomass values are highly variable among tree parts, diameter classes and dynamic stages. The phytomass is generally the highest in M2 and significantly different from Bl ,Â  Ml and B2. The phytomass of leaves in litterfall and litter is higherÂ  than wood parts. More litterfall and litter are accumulated in mature than building phases. Key words : nutrient / phytomass / dynamics / rain / forest