bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on the Macronucleus of Paramecium aurelia. I. (with a note on Ultra‐violet Micrography).
Authors: JURAND A. , BEALE G. H. , YOUNG M. R.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. This is a description of structures seen in EM preparations of the macronucleus of Paramecium aurelia, using both starved and growing organisms, the latter at timed stages after fission. The effects of treatment with RNA‐ase, DNA‐ase and of the “silver‐Feulgen” reaction are described, and comparisons made between structures in the macronucleus and the micronucleus. The appearance of macronuclei in thin (2 μ) paraffin sections, stained by the Feulgen, azure A and pyroninmethyl green methods, and upon examination by ultra‐violet micrography, is also considered. From these observations it is concluded that the macronucleus contains a large number of structures, 0.5 μ in diameter, consisting of an outer RNA‐containing region and central elements containing DNA. These bodies, which are usually thought to be “nucleoli” by other workers, are now considered to be the most likely candidates for the genetic “sub‐nuclei” which have been postulated from genetic work.
Glucose Metabolism of Euglena gracilis var. bacillaris; Growth and Enzymatic Studies*
Authors: HURLBERT RONALD E. , RITTENBERG SYDNEY C.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. A number of small molecules including CO2, certain Krebs cycle acids and certain amino acids stimulated growth and glucose utilization of a colorless strain of Euglena gracilis in a phthalate‐buffered mineral salts medium. Their major effect was to shorten markedly the lag period; some compounds also gave small increases in maximum growth rate and total cell yield. The stimulatory substances were effective in small (sparking) amounts. It is suggested that all the stimulatory substances acted similarly, by keeping the internal concentration of oxaloacetate at a sufficiently high level to allow effective operation of the terminal respiratory cycle.

Glucose utilization was initiated within a pH range of 3.0 to 5.0. This range could be extended by the addition of glycine to the growth medium. Cells cultured at pH 4.5 could be adapted to growth at pH 7.0 in a phosphate‐buffered mineral salts medium containing a small amount of citrate. Neither adaptation nor growth occurred at pH 7.0 in the absence of citrate. Since no evidence of citrate utilization was obtained and since EDTA replaced citrate, it is concluded that citrate was acting as a chelator.

The major enzymes of the Embden‐Meyerhof‐Parnas and pentose phosphate pathways were demonstrated in cell‐free extracts. The data presented indicate that glucose metabolism in Euglena is similar to that found in a wide variety of other cells. Indirect evidence was also obtained for the operation of a uridine linked pathway in hexose metabolism.

With the exception of hexokinase, for which results were inconsistent, all the enzymes demonstrated were routinely found in the supernatant fraction of the cell‐free extracts. The pH optima of a number of the enzymes were found to be between pH 7.5 and 8.6, although the cells from which the enzymes were obtained were grown in acid medium.
Effect of Type of Carbohydrate on Growth and Protein Synthesis by Tetrahymena pyriformis
Authors: REYNOLDS HOWARD , WRAGG JUNE B.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. In chemically defined media at carbohydrate concentrations ≧ 0.5% (w/v) Tetrahymena pyriformis W multiplied more rapidly, developed larger cells, and achieved greater growth as measured by optical density when carbohydrate was provided as dextrin rather than glucose. In media containing 0.3 mg/ml of amino acid nitrogen, growth increased with glucose concentration from 0.1 to 1%, did not change significantly to 3%, and was sharply inhibited at higher glucose levels. With dextrin, maximum growth paralleled carbohydrate concentration from 0.1 to 3%. At higher N levels the inhibitory concentration of glucose was lowered, but growth in dextrin media was not affected except at N concentrations that were inhibitory independent of carbohydrate source. At 1% carbohydrate levels, total cell protein per ml of culture was 60% greater, protein per cell approximately 50% greater, and cells were 1.5 to 2 times larger in media with dextrin than with glucose. Comparable differences in protein synthesis were observed at 2% carbohydrate levels and efficiency of conversion of substrate‐N to protein‐N was greater in the medium with dextrin than glucose.

Growth as measured by optical density in media with 0.3 mg/ml of N and 1 or 2% (w/v) of dextrin was not significantly reduced by the simultaneous presence of 1 or 2% glucose. This observation appeared to negate osmotic pressure as an explanation of reduced growth in the presence of glucose. At higher osmolar concentrations osmotic pressure appeared to be a major determinant of overall growth but not of cell size.
Lankesterella bufonis sp. nov. Parasitizing Toads, Bufo regularis Reuss, in Egypt*
Authors: MANSOUR NOSHY S. , MOHAMMED A. H. HELMY
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Lankesterella bufonis sp. nov., from toads, Bufo regularis Reuss, in Egypt, described herein, appears to be the first species of this genus to be found in Bufo. Sporozoites of the parasite in circulating blood are usually intracorpuscular, rarely free. Free forms, abundant in smears of internal organs, particularly from lungs, are small, slender, slightly curved bodies with the anterior end more pointed than the other. The small, oval, delicate nucleus is always situated in the posterior third of the parasite, either terminal or more usually subterminal. A single cytoplasmic vacuole is located just anterior of the nucleus and more‐or‐less centrally. Few darkly stained granules are sometimes seen around the vacuole. Though intracorpuscular forms retain morphological characteristics of the free forms, they frequently undergo peculiar changes: apparently flattening of host‐cells during smearing and fixation results in shorter and wider, and sometimes greater width of the parasite. Multiple infection with two and rarely three Lankesterella sporozoites is not uncommon. In liver and spleen smears, certain large cells, apparently of the macrophage or endothelial types, contain forms similar to those described in the peripheral blood, but mostly shorter and broader. Various developmental stages of schizonts were also seen in the liver and lung. In liver, lung, spleen, and kidney sections, numerous young forms, possibly merozoites, were scattered among tissue cells. The present parasite differs morphologically from Lankesterella minima (Chaussat, 1850), L. monilis Labbé, (1894), and L. canadensis Fantham et al., 1942.
Disc Testing of Drugs Against Plated Trichomonas vaginalis*
Authors: SAMUELS ROBERT , STOUDER DONALD J.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Inhibitory activity of a series of drugs has been tested against Trichomonas vaginalis pour‐plated in agar. Drugs were applied in impregnated paper discs on the surface of the agar and activities determined by the presence of surrounding zones without growth. Control discs without drug showed no inhibition of the flagellate's growth.

Some relationships of structure to activity were found in a group of substituted nitroimidazoles and nitrothiazoles. Diamidines, except for one with a triazene nucleus, produced little or no effect. Antibiotics varied from very high activity to none; a group of miscellaneous compounds, not quite so widely. Among the antibiotics, thiolutin merits further study as a possible biotin antagonist. Three closely related drugs, one of them known to inhibit cholesterol synthesis in mammals and Protozoa, restricted growth of T. vaginalis.

Suggestions are made as to further uses of disc or strip tests with plated trichomonads for studies of nutrition, metabolism, and genetics.
An Experimental Study of the Life Cycle of Trypanosoma danilewskyi in the Leech, Hemiclepsis marginata.*
Authors: QADRI SYED SHAMSUDDIN
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Three hr after a leech feeds on infected fish the blood trypanosomes appear in the crop. There they first decrease in size, the kinetoplast moving forward, the undulating membrane and free flagellum being shortened. After one day stumpy forms and others in which the kinetoplast is approaching the nucleus, as well as some dividing forms, appear. Two days later they become numerous and assume the crithidial form. In this stage they multiply till the 6th day, when they are transformed into attenuated trypaniform flagellates. After 7 days multiplication stops and they become typical slender trypanosomes representing infective metacyclic forms. By the 10th day these migrate from the crop into the proboscis sheath and are transmitted by the inoculative method when the leech feeds on a new host.
Effect of Wetting Agents on Permeability of Ochromonas danica
Authors: SOKOLSKI W. T. , FERGUSON H. J. , GOFF J.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. The effect of 10 detergents on the inhibitory activity of neomycin was tested against Ochromonas danica. All 4 anionic detergents used were synergistic with neomycin. Evidence is presented that the synergisms were due to the effect of the detergents on the cell membrane. In the presence of Tergitol 7, O. danica is more susceptible to changes in osmotic pressure by increasing concentrations of KCl.
Taxonomic‐Nomenclatural Practices in Protozoology and the New International Code of Zoological Nomenclature*
Authors: CORLISS JOHN O.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS.All zoologists are affected by provisions in the very recently published International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, the first revised edition of these important rules to appear in over 50 years. Common nomenclatural practices, often malpractices, of protozoologists and parasitologists who work primarily in taxonomic fields are revealed and discussed in light of recommendations and mandatory regulations to be found in the new Code. Some errors have been due solely to carelessness; others have involved misinterpretations of various directives; still others have involved cases not adequately covered by the old Règles. Certain mistakes of the past cannot be changed; but others are to be rectified upon discovery, according to mandates in articles of the new Code. Practical applications of the rules of nomenclature are stressed, and examples are taken from actual situations found to exist throughout all major taxa of the phylum Protozoa.

Because of the value of such discussion in both new and revisory work in protozoan systematics, the following major topics are given special consideration: matters of orthography, the original spelling of names and their justified or unjustified emendation; authorships and dates of names, who is responsible and when, and how such data are properly cited; mandatory dates in the new Code, and their effect on both already established names and names not yet proposed; the principles of priority and conservation or continuity, and how the rules attempt to satisfy proponents of both of these diametrically opposed “laws”; the concepts of synonymy and homonymy, and proper methods of treating names which have become involved in such situations; family‐group names, and the several special nomenclatural problems they present to protozoan taxonomists; the major problem of types, and the peculiar position of protozoologists with regard to the type concept, especially type‐specimens for categories in the species‐group; miscellaneous considerations, several unrelated but significant topics not appropriate for inclusion in preceding sections of the paper.
Two Techniques Applicable for the Study of Phagotrophy in Ciliates*
Authors: SEAMAN GERALD R.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. A procedure is described which allows quantitative evaluation of the rate of dye uptake by phagotrophic activity of Tetrahymena. A fixation solution which retains integrity of vacuolar membranes for at least 7 hr, and of the pellicular membrane for about 3 hr, is also described.
The Chemical Nature and Function of the Endoplasmic Granules of the Ciliate Conchophthirus curtus
Authors: BEERS C. DALE
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Conchophthirus curtus is a thigmotrich that occurs on the gills of Unionid clams (Elliptio complanatus in this study). The anterior third of the endoplasm, unlike the remainder, is relatively firm and without gastrioles; it contains an extensive aggregation of specialized endoplasmic granules and is therefore called granuloplasm. On the surface ventral to the granuloplasm is a thigmotactic area that bears closely set, strongly adherent cilia. There is no evidence that the granules are intracellular microorganisms; they are Feulgen‐negative and do not divide, nor do they stain like bacteria. Cytochemical tests show that the granules contain neutral fat, fatty acid, phospholipid, glycogen, and mucin. The evidence indicates that the principal function of the granules and granuloplasm is the production of mucin, which is supplied to the underlying thigmotactic cilia, thereby conferring on them their adhesive properties. Thus, the granules and granuloplasm constitute a mucous organelle, and to the extent that they are osmiophilic and secretory they qualify as Golgi bodies and Golgi material, respectively. Since endoplasmic granule is a general term for any of the granules of protozoan endoplasm, it is recommended that the granules of the present study be called muciferous granules.
A Cytological Study of Chilomonas paramecium with Particular Reference to the So‐called Trichocysts*
Authors: ANDERSON EVERETT
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Chilomonas paramecium has been studied by light and electron microscopy with special attention to the so‐called trichocysts. The electron miscroscope reveals that the anatomy of these bodies is unlike that of the classical trichocysts of ciliates. Since these structures can be extruded from the body of the organism they have been called ejectisomes. The ejectisomes have a regular geometrical shape and a complex internal structure. They consist of two unequal components which are enclosed by a thin membrane. Morphological polarity is established by an anterior smaller unit and a posterior larger unit. When the ejectisomes are found in the peripheral cytoplasm or in a perivestibular position the smaller unit is always oriented toward the surface. A suggestion is made that the ejectisomes are derived from the vesicular component of the Golgi complex. An interpretation is offered concerning a mechanism by which ejectisomes may be extruded from the body.
A New Species of Avian Plasmodium
Authors: MANWELL REGINALD D.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. A new species of avian malaria parasite is described, for which the name Plasmodium formosanum is proposed. It was observed in the blood of Arboriphila crudigularis, the Formosan hill partridge; other bird species in which it may occur remain unknown, as do the mosquito vectors. It produces very broad, elongate gametocytes, the macrogametocyte usually exhibiting a very large vacuole. The usual number of merozoites is eight. The host cell nucleus typically is not displaced, except laterally by the sexual forms. Only the stages occurring in the blood have yet been seen.
A Mensural Study of Division in Trypanosoma simiae and Trypanosoma congolense
Authors: STEPHEN L. E.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Dividing forms of Trypanosoma simiae and T. congolense in stained thin blood films taken from pigs infected by wild Glossina morsitans submorsitans were measured employing a technique which took account of the distance between the divided kinetoplasts, the positions of the nucleus or nuclei and the lengths of the original and developing flagella.

Analysis of these measurements showed that binary fission in these trypanosomes consisted of a gradual increase in the distance between the divided kinetoplasts along the long axis of the body; progressive outgrowth of a daughter flagellum from the blepharoplast associated with the posteriorly placed kinetoplast; migration of the nucleus toward the posterior end of the body; separation of the divided nuclei in the direction of the long axis of the body; and fission of the cytoplasm in an antero‐posterior direction and finally separation into two individuals by a stepped, sliding motion.

No evidence to support syngamy or other type of germ cell reproduction was observed.
Growth and Reproduction of Leptomonas oncopelti in the Milkweed Bug, Oncopeltus fasciatus
Authors: McGHEE R. BARCLAY , HANSON WILLIAM L.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. A laboratory colony of Oncopeltus fasciatus was found to be infected with Leptomonas oncopelti. Inasmuch as the parasite is transmitted from parent to offspring an opportunity presented itself to study the biology and transmission of this parasite under controlled laboratory conditions. An apparatus for observing individual bugs was designed and the presence or absence of flagellates in the feces determined. Flagellates were not shed until the bugs became adults after which they appeared in every defecation. Dissection of infected bugs revealed that flagellates were not present in the rectum until adulthood. Further studies indicated that in the midgut of the insect there is a departure from binary fission to budding. The nucleus divides and one of the newly formed nuclei migrates toward a newly formed kinetoplast. Rarely there is still another kinetoplast/nucleus division. In the event the new axoneme grows within the cytoplasmic sheath of the parent flagellum, smaller organisms produced by unequal cytokinesis remain attached. If the axoneme grows free, the smaller daughter organisms become free‐swimming. Passage into the rectum of the adult bugs causes a rounding up of all parasites although the leishmaniform organisms continue to divide. It is presumed that infection of clean bugs is accomplished by the ingestion of leishmaniform organisms through a common water source. The reason for the presence of flagellates in the rectum of the adult but not in the nymphal insect and the mechanism responsible for the change from binary to unequal fission are not known.
Trypanosomes of the African Lemurs, Perodicticus potto ibeanus and Galago demidovi thomasi*
Authors: Van Den BERGHE L. , CHARDOME M. , PEEL E.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. The common lemurs Galago demidovi thomasi and Perodicticus potto ibeanus of the African rain forest in Kivu province, (Congo), all showed trypanosomes in the circulating blood. On examining a number of the animals for long periods of time, the trypanosomes proved to belong to two different species, T. perodictici Reichenow (1917) and T. irangiense, van den Berghe, Chardome and Peel, 1956. These two species correspond with the two types previously seen by Hoare, (1932) in P. potto.
Immobilization, Agglutination and Agar Precipitin Effects of Antibodies to Flagella of Pandorina Mating Types*
Authors: COLEMAN ANNETTE WILBOIS
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. A method is given for the isolation and purification of relatively intact Pandorina morum flagella. Rabbit antisera to flagella of three different strains of the alga, representing each of the two mating types in one syngen and one of the two mating types in a second syngen, were tested. Microscopic examination revealed that antisera caused shedding of flagella and appeared to inhibit their regeneration. Homologous antiserum was capable of immobilizing colonies, agglutinating flagella, and forming multiple precipitin bands in agar when tested against flagella. The effects of an antiserum on the immunizing strain of alga and on its complementary mating type were indistinguishable by the three immunological reactions. Where additional strains of a syngen could be tested, they were also found to react with the antiserum, though the strains were originally collected on different continents. Observable effects of antisera were generally restricted to strains within the same syngen as the immunizing strain. In one exceptional case, however, strains sexually incompatible with the immunizing strain, but originally collected from the same pond, reacted with the antiserum in all three types of serum tests.
Experimental Infection of the Hemipteron Oncopeltus fasciatus with Trypanosomatidae Isolated from other Hosts*
Authors: HANSON WILLIAM L. , McGHEE R. BARCLAY
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. In an effort to determine the degree of host specificity and morphology of the insect trypanosomatids in a presumably foreign host, individuals of a laboratory colony of the hemipteron Oncopeltus fasciatus were given intra‐rectal injections with various species of axenically cultured parasites. Crithidia isolated from the hemipterons Acanthocephala femorata, Euryophthalmus davisi, and Arilus cristatus, as well as those from the dipterons Phaenicia sericata and Culex pipiens, and Crithidia (Strigomonas) oncopelti presumably isolated from O. fasciatus or Asclepias syriaca, demonstrated extensive multiplication whereas a leptomonad from the hemipteron Leptoglossus phyllopus and a blastocrithidian from the hemipteron Euschistus servus underwent little reproduction and disappeared after 8 and 25 days respectively. Another blastocrithidian taken from the hemipteron Melanolestes picipos flourished and has been transferred through 7 generations of O. fasciatus. None of the crithidia were transmitted although numerous flagellates and leishmaniform bodies were observed in the feces of bugs injected with all species.

The crithidia in the gut of O. fasciatus were somewhat more elongated than culture forms and this appeared to be particularly marked in the dipteron group. In bugs injected with C. acanthocephali and C. oncopelti a few specimens were seen with the kinetoplast posterior to the nucleus. Leptomonas leptoglossi enlarged markedly when injected into the gut of O. fasciatus and in many organisms the nucleus was displaced to the posterior half of the body. There was no apparent change in the morphology of the two blastocrithidia in this host.

Although some minor morphological changes were observed, this work in general supports the view of Wallace that Crithidia is a distinct genus and probably does not represent a stage in the life cycle of other organisms.
Establishment of an International Type‐Slide Collection for the Ciliate Protozoa*
Authors: CORLISS JOHN O.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. An international collection center for type‐specimens of protozoa belonging to the subphylum Ciliophora has been set up at the University of Illinois through the cooperation of the Museum of Natural History there. The writer will act as curator of slides deposited in this central collection. Syntypes are solicited from all protozoologists interested in ciliate taxonomy who may possess such specimens. In accordance with provisions of Article 72 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, all material received will be properly handled and indexed and regarded as “the property of science”; preparations will be made available on loan to qualified workers anywhere who need them temporarily for research purposes. Existence of such a type‐slide collection should aid in alleviation of a growing number of vexatious problems in the systematics of the ciliate Protozoa at specific and generic levels.
Minchinia louisiana n. sp. (Haplosporidia, Haplosporidiidae), A Parasite of Panopeus herbstii*
Authors: SPRAGUE VICTOR
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Haplosporidium sp. Sprague, 1954, originally reported without description and now considered to belong to genus Minchinia, is described. Vegetative forms with two to many nuclei are common but the mode of vegetative multiplication is obscure. Mitotic division, as in related species, occurs without breakdown of the nuclear membrane and shows a conspicuous intradesmose. A complex endosome resembling an amphinucleolus gives rise during prophase to chromosomes, nucleolus and (probably) centrioles. The minute chromosomes are not easily resolved or distinguished from other nuclear elements but their number is of the order of 3 to 6. Mature spores are ovoid and average about 12.1 μ by 8.4 μ when fixed and stained. The spore wall, about 1 μ thick, contains a circular orifice 2 μ in diameter. An operculum arising from the outer gelatinous coat covers the orifice. The single uninucleate sporoplasm is attached anteriorly to the perimeter of the orifice. Cysts are spherical and with variable number of spores, usually too many spores to count but rarely as few as 8 or 16.
Free Amino Acids in Tetrahymenidae
Authors: LOEFER JOHN B. , SCHERBAUM OTTO H.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Free amino acids in extracts of a number of tetrahymenid genera, species and strains of Tetrahymena pyriformis were separated by a combination of paper electrophoresis at pH 1.9 and descending paper chromatography with lutidine as solvent. Ethanol extracts of ciliates cultured at temperatures of either 15°, 25° or 35°C were used. Relative evaluation of ninhydrin spot intensity was made for T. pyriformis strains WH52, UM226, hybrids No. 25, No. 76, PR, HS and N. Extracts from 15° and 25°C cultures of T. limacis, T. setifera HZ1, T. vorax V2, Glaucoma chattoni A and Colpidium campylum C were analyzed in the same way.

Seventeen spots were usually found on all chromatograms indicating the presence of the substances alanine, arginine, aspartic acid/asparagine, cysteine/cystine, glutamic acid/glutamine, glycine, histidine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, taurine, threonine, tyrosine and valine. No cysteic acid was demonstrable. Cysteine/cystine, histidine, phenylalanine and taurine generally occur in relatively low concentrations or appear to be absent. Those ranked as generally abundant include aspartic acid/asparagine, arginine, serine and threonine. Spot intensities for the remainder of those listed above indicate they were very abundant in most samples.

FAA analyses have now been made by us, including those in a previous report, on tetrahymenid ciliates belonging to 3 genera (Colpidium, Glaucoma and Tetrahymena), on 4 species of Tetrahymena (limacis, setifera, vorax and pyriformis) and on 11 strains of T. pyriformis. Although extracts have been compared from ciliates grown at temperatures of 10°, 15°, 25° and 35°C, no striking differences in the qualitative or quantitative composition of the known amino acids in these patterns were observed. It was not possible to establish correlations with serotypes, and no features that might serve as useful taxonomic criteria were observed.
Fine Structure of the Oral Area of Tetrahymena patula
Authors: MILLER O. L. , STONE G. E.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. In axenic culture, the polymorphic ciliate, Tetrahymena patula, consists of two cell types, a small mouthed form (microstome) and a larger carnivorous macrostome both of which possess the tetrahymenal‐type buccal apparatus. With the exception of over‐all size, only minor differences were found in the structure of the oral area of the two cell types.

Each of the membranelles, which lie on the left wall of the buccal cavity, consists of three long rows of kinetosomes with attached cilia. A series of parallel fibers originating at the base of the inner row of kinetosomes in each membranelle runs toward the adjacent, lower membranelle or in the case of the third membranelle toward the junction of the left and right walls of the buccal cavity. After a short distance, a portion of each fiber rises and subdivides to form a periodic array of fine fibrils which lie immediately under the pellicle and run parallel with the long axes of the membranelles. The remaining portion of these kinetosomal fibers continues through the cytoplasm to connect with the kinetosomes of the next membranelle.

The undulating membrane, which borders the right wall of the buccal overture, consists of a single row of cilia. Examinations of thin sections show, however, that there are actually two rows of kinetosomes in the membrane base. The outer row is ciliated while the inner row of kinetosomes, which are alternately spaced relative to those in the outer row, lies deeper in the cytoplasm and has no cilia. Fibers project straight down from the base of kinetosomes in both rows and join to form a tangled network which underlies the entire length of the membrane.

The oral ribs begin near the base of the undulating membrane and descend in decreasing number to the cytopharynx. There is a connection between the fiber system of the undulating membrane and the tips of the oral ribs. The ribs appear in cross section as raised, thickened ridges of the inner pellicular layer with the outer layer adhering only at the top of the ridges. Immediately underlying the oral rib area is a relatively thick differentiated layer composed of fine fibers within a ground substance.
Factors in Host Susceptibility and Oocyst Infectivity in Eimeria acervulina Infections*
Authors: KRASSNER STUART M.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Eimeria acervulina infections were studied by counting oocysts collected from individual chickens before they passed into droppings. More oocysts of E. acervulina were produced on day 4 post‐infection than at any other time. The reproductive potential per oocyst decreased as the infecting dose increased. The mean numbers of oocysts present in the intestine after 4 days were 6,590 per oocyst fed when the infecting dose was 10,000 oocyts; 6,180 when it was 50,000 oocysts; 4,150 when it was 100,000 oocysts; 444 when it was 1 million oocysts; and 71 when it was 10 million oocysts. Oocysts become infective within 13 hours sporulation at 30°C, reach a peak of infectivity before 27 hours and start to decline after 60 hours. Oocyst yield increased linearly with age, from a mean yield of 80.1 × 106 oocysts in the intestine of 13‐day‐old birds to a mean yield of 1223 × 106 oocysts in the intestine of 107‐day‐old birds. There was a seasonal effect upon oocyst yields, with higher yields in the winter during the year in which observations were made.
Thermostable Compounds Opposing Toxicity of the Carcinogen 4‐Nitroquinoline N‐Oxide to Flagellates and Bacteria*
Authors: ZAHALSKY ARTHUR C. , KEANE MARY M. , HUTNER S. H. , LUBART KATHERINE J. , KITTRELL MIRIAM , AMSTERDAM D.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. In defined media growth inhibition of the flagellates Ochromonas danica and Euglena gracilis, the photosyn thetic bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris, and Coryne bacterium bovis was overcome for each organism, for concentrations of 4‐nitroquinoline N‐oxide (4‐NQO) to ca. 5 μg/ml, by a combination of L‐tryptophan, riboflavin, nicotinic acid, L‐tyrosine, and less sharply, thymine and naphtho quinones. Tryptophan used alone was effective only in rather high concentrations—ca. 0.2 mg/ml for 4‐NQO 2 μg/ml; it was competitive with 4‐NQO through this range. At least for Euglena, gramine and 5‐methyl‐DL‐tryptophan were about as effective. 4‐NQO uptake may therefore be via the trypto phan transport system. 4‐NQO may be a uniquely stable, accessible counterpart of the more polar, more carcinogenic compounds into which mammals oxidatively convert the azodye carcinogens by N‐hydroxylation and the hydrocarbon carcinogens by hydroxylation and ketonization.
Serological Investigations of Trichomonads. I. Comparisons of “Natural” and Immune Antibodies
Authors: Samuels Robert , Chun‐Hoon Harry
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Active, normal sera or other body fluids from many vertebrate species were found to cytolyze Tritrichomonas augusta; heat inactivated sera agglutinated the organisms. Techniques were devised for quantitative determination of “natural” agglutinating and lytic activity against a number of trichomonads. Amphibian, avian, mammalian, and reptilian sera all possessed activity, as did chicken egg yolk, or yolk sac contents, human ascitic fluid, and cow's milk. For individuals of a given species, levels of “natural” agglutinin did not vary significantly. Among donor species, there were wide and consistent differences. The serum of any one individual, tested against 6 strains of T. augusta, showed constant activity. Agglutinating activity was relatively unaffected by changes of physical factors in the reaction milieu. Lytic activity was restored to heat‐inactivated serum by addition of guinea pig serum as a source of complement. When serum was fractionated, agglutinating activity was found primarily in the γ globulins and on into the β. On the basis of these reactions and the activity of specific serum fractions, an antibody mechanism has been postulated.

By means of reciprocal agglutination tests with absorbed sera, both “natural” and immune agglutinins have been shown to be specific for Tritrichomonas augusta, T. foetus, and T. suis (?), as well as for Trickomonas gallinarum and Trichomonas vaginalis. Absorption with one species does not remove activity against others. Among strains of T. augusta, absorption with any one removes some antibody against others, but not necessarily all. On the basis of reciprocal absorption and test of 6 strains, 3 antigenic groups have been established: 2 groups are well‐separated; the 3rd intermediate between the others and cross‐reacting with both.

Lack of agglutinin absorption by 2 common enterobacteria, a yeast, and Forssman antigen (sheep erythrocytes) showed that these, at least, were not involved as sources of heterophil stimulation for “natural” antibody. Whether “natural” antibody results from heterophil stimulation, however, or is genetically determined, has not been answered. Direct stimulation of “natural” antibody production by occult infection with trichomonads could not have occurred in the case of trichomonad‐free, laboratory reared chicks, or mammalian sera active against T. augusta.
Importance of Adsorbents in the Nutrition of Paramecium caudatum*
Authors: Reilly Sister Marguerite
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Paramecium caudatum was cultivated in a medium containing 17 amino acids, nucleic acid components, fatty acids, a supplementary carbon source, B‐vitamins and stigmasterol. Growth was enhanced when particles such as corn starch, rice starch or activated charcoal were added to the denned portion of the medium along with an unidentified protein factor found in either yeast or peas. The addition of a synthetic magnesium silicate to the chemically known constituents eliminated the apparent requirement for the protein factor. Since the continuous maintenance of P. caudatum in a medium of known chemical composition is now possible, metabolic studies can be carried on with greater facility.
Studies of Sulfate Utilization by Algae. 3. Products Formed From Sulfate by Euglena*
Authors: Goodman Nelson S. , Schiff Jerome A.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Sulfate‐S35 uptake by intact Euglena cells, as well as incorporation of sulfate‐S35 into the insoluble fractions of the cells, was partially inhibited by adding iodoacetamide simultaneously or ten minutes before radioactive sulfate. The identification of S‐cysteine acetamide and S‐glutathione acetamide showed the presence of glutathione and cysteine in the soluble pool of Euglena but methionine, homocysteine, and S‐adenosylmethionine were not found during these experiments. An unidentified radioactive peak was eluted by 2 n HCl during column chromatography of the soluble fraction of Euglena cells. The major compound in this peak was identified as L‐cystine on the basis of its infra‐red spectrum, paper and column chromatographic characteristics and optical rotation. The use of iodoacetamide permitted the independent demonstration of cysteine and cystine in the soluble pools by eliminating oxidation artifacts.
The Riboflavin Requirement and the Effects of Acriflavin on the Fine Structure of the Kinetoplast of Leishmania tarentolae*
Authors: Trager William , Rudzinska Maria A.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Leishmania tarentolae requires at least 10 mμg riboflavin per ml for optimal growth on successive subculture in a denned medium. At this level many organisms are aflagellate or with a short flagellum; higher concentrations of riboflavin did not increase the yield of leptomonads but did increase the proportion with a flagellum at least as long as the body. At limiting levels of riboflavin, acriflavin markedly inhibited growth without producing akinetoplastic forms. With riboflavin at 20 mμ/ml or higher, acriflavin at around 500 mμg/ml permitted an approximately 10‐fold multiplication. Seventy % of the leptomonads formed were akinetoplastic and they could not give rise to subcultures.

In electron micrographs of acriflavin‐treated organisms the nucleus was unaffected but the cytoplasmic organelles, notably the kinetoplast and mitochondria, were altered. The mitochondria appeared swollen with their cristae replaced by circular profiles. In the kinetoplast the dense fibrillar material (probably DNA) lost its structure, became diffuse, and eventually disappeared. The observed changes again indicate close relationship between the kinetoplast and the mitochondria of hemoflagellates.
Plistophora myotrophica spec, nov., Causing High Mortality in the Common Toad Bufo bufo L., with Notes on the Maintenance of Bufo and Xenopus in the Laboratory
Authors: CANNING E. U. , ELKAN E. , TRIGG P. I.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Colonies of Bufo bufo kept for pregnancy diagnostic purposes were found infected with a new species of microsporidian, Plistophora myotrophica, causing atrophy of the striated muscles. Lysis of myofibrils by the parasite leads to the formation of fusiform spaces in the fibers packed with microsporidian spores. A cyst wall is not formed. Toads become emaciated and suffer heavy mortality.

In experimental infections the sporoplasm hatches in the gut. Fusiform granular bodies, not identifiable as blood cells, are found in the muscle capillaries at 18 days and possibly represent early stages of the parasite. Between 18 and 23 days division of the parasite occurs in the muscle fibers, first by binary fission, then multiple fission and finally by plasmotomy culminating in the formation of sporonts with 16 to 100 nuclei. Separation into sporoblasts precedes spore formation.

In old infections phagocytes, which are probably monocytes, infiltrate between the groups of spores and ingest them. Ingested spores which stain differently from their free counterparts, are dead. Muscle regeneration is initiated by the toad, with the formation of long chains of sarcoblasts, sometimes 30 or more in a chain, responsible for the regeneration and redifferentiation of myofibrils.

Tadpoles are refractory to infection. As toads normally lead a solitary life the high local incidence in the area from which the toads were collected is explained only if the toads acquire the infection from spore‐contaminated ground in the breeding season.
Mexican Ciliated Protozoa III. Hypophrya fasciculata gen. nov., sp. nov. (Ciliata: Suctorida)
Authors: LOPEZ‐OCHOTERENA EUCARIO
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Hypophrya fasciculata gen. nov., sp. nov., a mesosaprobic epibiotic suctorian ciliate, was collected from stagnant water in Chapultepec Park, Mexico, D.F., on Epistylis plicatilis, in turn epibiotic on the molluscans Limnaea attenuata and Physa osculans. The zooids (average size, 118 × 78 μ) have fasciculate tentacles distributed on the apical and proximal regions, and the stalks are ca. 248 μ in length. Feeding and internal budding were observed.
The Effect of pH on the Availability of Acid Substrates for Polytomella caeca with Unexpected Activity by Succinate*
Authors: WISE DONALD L.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Membrane permeability of Polytomella caeca for acid substrates was examined by determining inhibition of growth by high concentrations of sole carbon sources in a pH range of 2.5–7.5, growth stimulation by compounds which are inadequate as sole carbon sources, and respirometry of these compounds at various pH levels. Fatty acid penetration appeared to be based on lipid solubility. Succinate, however, was better absorbed when ionized and therefore less lipid soluble. There was an indication that pyruvate and α‐ketoglutarate may be more easily absorbed as ions also. Ethanol, glyceraldehyde, pyruvate, lactate, α‐ketoglutarate, succinate and malate stimulated oxygen uptake at different pH values. Fumarate was inactive in both growth and respiration experiments.
Pseudocohnilembidae n. fam., a Hymenostome Ciliate Family Containing One Genus, Pseudocohnilembus n. g., with Three New Species*
Authors: EVANS FREDERICK R. , THOMPSON JESSE C.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. A new family (Pseudocohnilembidae) of hymenostome ciliates is described based primarily upon the pattern of the buccal infraciliature which consists of two parallel rows of kinetosomes, nearly equal in length, representing the bases of two large membranes, and of argentophilic fibrils arranged in a more or less uniform design in the buccal cavity. A new genus (Pseudocohnilembus) with three species (one from Great Salt Lake, Utah, and two from the Atlantic coast) is described. These organisms bear superficial resemblance to Cohnilembus; an analysis of the buccal infraciliature of Pseudocohnilembus is presented, including a discussion of and comparison with that of Cohnilembus.
Specific Incorporation of Precursors into DNA by Feeding Labeled Bacteria to Paramecium aurelia
Authors: BERGER J. D. , KIMBALL R. F.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Studies were carried out on the introduction of labeled precursors into the DNA of Paramecium aurelia (syngen 4, stock 51) by way of the bacteria that are used for food. A thymine‐requiring strain of Escherichia coli (15 T−) was labeled by growth in either H3‐methyl thymidine or 2‐C14 bromouracil, washed free of the exogenous label, and fed to the paramecia. The tritium label from the bacteria was incorporated almost exclusively into the DNA of the paramecia, whereas it was much less specifically incorporated when introduced directly from the medium. The Cu label from bromouracil was also incorporated mainly into the DNA of the paramecia although a small amount appeared in RNA. The formation of labeled food vacuoles was followed. Food vacuoles were formed at a nearly constant rate, with the total number of vacuoles increasing throughout the cycle. The lifetime of the vacuoles was about 2.5 hours. Incorporation of the label into the DXA of the paramecia begins within a few minutes of the formation of the first labeled vacuole. DNA synthesis begins about 1.5 hr after the previous fission (total cell cycle about 5.8 hr) and progresses at a nearly constant rate throughout the remainder of the cycle.
Cellular Narcosis of Paramecium multimicronucleatum by Xenon and Other Chemically Inert Gases*
Authors: SEARS D. F. , GITTLESON S. M.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Xenon applied at sufficient pressures ranging from 30 pounds per square inch to 225 p.s.i. caused reduction in contractile vacuole activity, increase in cellular volume, expansion of the surface region, cessation of forward movement, and cytolysis of paramecia. Krypton at 915 p.s.i. prevented contractile vacuole activity, but forward movement continued for at least 30 min. When subjected to 115 p.s.i. of N2O, paramecia moved in slow oscillations, and contractile vacuoles failed to empty. At 265 p.s.i. of N2O movement ceased and cytolysis resulted. The pressure required to terminate movement in the same time interval following application of the pressure was less for N2O than for xenon. The expansion of the surface of the cells suggests that inert gases produce narcosis by dissolving into this region.
The Taxonomy of Pyxidiella curvicaula (Penard)
Authors: CURDS COLIN R.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. The peritrich Pyxidiella curvicaula (Penard) was observed in the activated sludge of an English sewage works and was successfully cultured in the laboratory.

A number of observations were made upon clonal cultures of P. curvicaula which indicated that this species is colonial at one stage in the asexual life cycle. The branching of the colonial adult is more complex than originally described, and a maximum of 17 individuals has been observed upon one stalk.

Since P. curvicaula is in reality a colonial peritrich, it should therefore be transferred to the genus Opercularia Stein, with the name of the species changed to Opercularia curvicaula.
Giemsa Stain for the Diagnosis of Bovine Babesiosis. I. Staining Properties of Commercial Samples and Their Component Dyes
Authors: SAAL J. R.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Studies on the composition of commercial Giemsa stain and its effect upon staining quality are reported. These studies were supplemented by observations on the preparation of the components of Giemsa stain and their staining properties in aqueous solution, in Nocht's solution, and in laboratory prepared Giemsa stains containing one azure component. Five groups of commercial batches were differentiated on the basis of their staining reactions on thick and thin films of bovine blood containing Babesia bigemina and B. argentina. Spectrophotometric and chromatographic analysis showed that four groups differed in the proportions of the thiazine components present, while the fifth‐group did not appear to be Giemsa stain. Comparison of their staining effects with those obtained with each component in laboratory prepared stains indicated that the major effects of commercial batches on both blood cells and parasites were due to the thiazine component or components in highest proportions, with satisfactory staining of protozoa associated with those batches containing high proportions of methylene blue and azure B and low proportions of the remaining thiazine components.

The function of each component of Giemsa stain is defined and the need for the proper balancing of thiazine eosinates with free azure is shown. Close correlation was obtained between analysis by spectrophotometry and chromatography and direct staining tests when samples initially with low MX values were re‐examined spectrophotometrically after removal of their methylene violet content. The existence of a leuco form of eosin is reported and its possible significance to the Romanowsky effect is discussed.
Studies on Feeding and Digestion in Protozoa. VII. Ingestion of Polystyrene Latex Particles and its Early Effect on Acid Phosphatase in Paramecium multimicronucleatum and Tetrahymena pyriformis
Authors: MUELLER M. , RÖHLICH P. , TÖRÖ I.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Food vacuole‐free P. multimicronucleatum and T. pyriformis readily ingest non‐nutritive Dow polystyrene latex particles (PLP) and form vacuoles containing PLP at a rate comparable to the formation of vacuoles containing bacteria. The particles aggregate within the vacuoles and are egested as balls of the size of the vacuoles. PLP containing vacuoles rapidly acquire acid phosphatase activity, which is demonstrated by histochemical (alpha‐naphthyl phosphatehexazonium salt or lead phosphate) methods as a peripheric staining. The total activity of the cell does not significantly change as a consequence of PLP uptake as suggested by the histochemical preparations and confirmed in T. pyriformis by measuring the splitting of p‐nitrophenyl phosphate at pH 5. Accordingly, no selection between nutritive and non‐nutritive particles could be revealed. The vacuole formation is induced by the mechanical action of the particles. The appearance of acid phosphatase activity in the vacuole seems to be dependent on the vacuole formation and not on its content. This early appearance of activity is due to a redistribution of the preexistent activity.
A New Species of Plasmodium from the Formosan Shoveller Duck (Anas clypeata L.)*
Authors: MANWELL REGINALD D. , KUNTZ ROBERT E.
Published: May 2007

SYNOPSIS. Blood films made from the “shoveller duck”, Anas clypeata Linnaeus 1758, in Lin‐pien Ping‐tung Hsien, Taiwan, showed a new species of avian malaria parasite, for which the name Plasmodium anasurn is proposed. This species is characterized by elongate gametocytes often closely resembling Huemopvoteus, about 15 merozoites per segmenter (although such stages were too few for really accurate counts), and trophozoites and schizonts which very often surround the extremities of the host cell nucleus in U‐shaped fashion. Pigment is abundant, appears early, and is very dark. The host cell shows little or no alteration. No infected reticulocytes or blood cells other than erythrocytes were observed.