bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatty Acid Composition in the Lipids of some Marine Chiorococcales and Eustigmatales
Authors: Menzel Karola , Wild Aloysius
Published: August 2018

The fatty acid composition in the lipids of six coccoid microalgae species (≈ 2 μm in diameter) was investigated. In addition to analyses of ultrastructure and pigment content, lipid composition is shown to be a chemotaxonomic tool in the classification of algae. The four species of Chiorococcales (Chlorophyceae) - the marine species as well as the fresh water species, both kept in artificial seawater - contain a fatty acid composition resembling that of Chlorella spp. and of green leaves of higher plants. The fatty acid pattern is characterized as lacking in C20 acids but containing large amounts of C 16 and C 18 polyunsaturated fatty acids, hexadecatrienic acid (16 :3) and a-linolenic acid (18:3ω3) in particular. In contrast the two species of Eustigmatales (Eustigmatophyceae) investigated here show a deficiency of the C 16 and C 18 polyunsaturated fatty acids but contain large amounts of eicosapentaenic acid (20:5).
Purification and Properties of Arogenate Dehydrogenase from Actinoplanes missouriensis
Authors: Hund Hilda-K. , Bär Gerda , Lingens Franz
Published: August 2018

Actinoplanes missouriensis utilizes arogenate as an intermediate in ʟ-tyrosine biosynthesis, while no evidence of prephenate dehydrogenase was observed. Arogenate dehydrogenase has been partially purified by a five-step procedure. The enzyme requires NAD as cofactor. The Km values for NAD and arogenate are 0.2 mм and 0.15 mм, respectively. The molecular weight of arogenate dehydrogenase is about 68,000, and SDS gel electrophoresis indicates a composition of two identical subunits. The enzyme is not feedback inhibited by ʟ-tyrosine and unaffected by ʟ-phenylalanine, prephenate, phenylpyruvate, p-hydroxyphenylpyruvate or ʟ-tryptophan. Arogenate dehydrogenase is quite sensitive to p-hydroxymercuribenzoate with 50% inhibition at 12.5 μм of the SH -specific reagent. The presence of malate in usually applied arogenate preparations is demonstrated and the consequence of an impure substrate on arogenate dehydrogenase studies is discussed.
Stimulation of Myoblast Membrane Protein Synthesis by 25-Hydroxy-Vitamin D 3
Authors: Bellido Teresita , Boland Ricardo
Published: August 2018

The effects of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3 (25 OHD3) on myoblast protein synthesis were studied in connection with its role on muscle cell phosphate metabolism . The sterol markedly increased leucine incorporation into total cell proteins in cultured chick embryo myoblasts. This enhance­ment was greater than that produced by 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) and occurred prior to a significant stimulation of cell phosphate accumulation. Maximum effects of 25 OHD3 (8 h) on myoblast phosphate uptake were suppressed by cycloheximide indicating that they are mediated by de novo protein synthesis. At a similar treatment period, labelling of myoblasts with [3H]leucine (control) and [14C]leucine (+ 25 OHD3) followed by co-electrophoresis of total protein extracts on SDS-PAGE and isoelectrofocusing gels revealed that the sterol selectively affects the synthesis of proteins of 20 kDa and 50 kDa. These macromolecules were recovered in the microsomal fraction after differential centrifugation of homogenates. Further fractionation of myoblast microsomes on sucrose density gradients show ed co-localization of the 50 kDa and 20 kDa proteins with microsomal subfractions which preferentially bind [3H -alpha]bungarotoxin, suggesting that the proteins induced by 25 OHD3 are associated to plasma membranes and may play a role in the effects of the sterol on cell phosphate uptake.
Role of Thiols in Radioprotection: Radiation Chemical Aspects
Authors: Tamba M.
Published: August 2018

Using the technique of pulse radiolysis, it has been demonstrated that thiyl radicals (RS˙) derived from glutathione (GSH), cysteine (CYSH), penicillamine (PnSH) and 2-m ercaptoethanol (M E) interact with oxygen at a high rate. The resulting transient absorption, with a maximum around 540-560 nm, is characteristic of the sulphur peroxyl radical (RSOO˙). The yield and the kinetic of formation of RSOO˙ further support our previous suggestion that thiyl/O2 reaction is an equilibrium. The redox properties of RSOO˙ are discussed on the basis of the interaction with reductants. Studies on the radio-induced enzyme inactivation in the presence of thiols seem to suggest a damaging role for RSOO˙ radicals.
An Application of Thermoluminescence to Herbicide Studies
Authors: Gleiter H. M. , Ohadh N. , Hirschberg J. , Fromme R. , Renger G. , Koike H. , Inoue Y.
Published: August 2018

Thylakoids of genetically engineered species of Synechococcus PCC7942 were investigated by thermoluminescence (TL), polarographic and herbicide-binding studies. The results were as follows: 1) Deletion of either copy I or copy II/III of the psbA gene family resulted in modified oscillation patterns of flash induced TL and O2 evolution compared to wild type cells. 2) Replacement of Ser264 in psbA I by Ala or Gly inducing strong herbicide resistance leads to a downshift of the TL peak temperature of B-band by 10 C and alters the oscillation pattern of flash induced TL and O2 evolution significantly to exhibit a pattern with comparatively high O2 yield after the 2nd flash. Additional deletion of psbA II III does not lead to significant changes compared to the single mutated strains. 3) Contrary to Ser,M mutants, replacement of Phe255 by Tyr in psbA I alone, which also induces herbicide resistance, is not accompanied by- corresponding changes in TL peak temperature and/or oscillation pattern of flash-induced TL and O2 evolution. However, strongly altered properties are observed after additional deletion of psbA II/III. Based on these data it is inferred that expression of either psbA I or psbA II III genes only gives rise to PS II complexes slightly different in their function. Site-directed muta- genesis of psbA I gene modulates the expression ratio between copies I and II/III. The possible implications are discussed.
Determination of Catabolism of the Photosystem II D 1 Subunit by Structural Motifs in the Polypeptide Sequence
Authors: Shipton Catherine A. , Marder Jonathan B. , Barber James
Published: August 2018

Abstract Proteolytic mapping of the D 1 subunit of photosystem two and a degradation product which arises during its rapid catabolism shows that the latter is a result of proteolysis within the peptide motif QEEET. This motif is located in a portion of the D1 protein thought to form a stroma-exposed connection between fourth and fifth transmembrane segments. This connection domain also contains a “PEST”-like sequence and forms part of the QB/herbicide binding niche. The QEEET motif seems to provide a major epitope in immunological studies, as judged from reaction of D1 and its fragments with polyclonal antibodies. Antibodies against D1 were found to react with other animal and plant proteins which contain similar sequence motifs.
Amino Acid Substitutions in the D1 Protein of Photosystem II Affect QB
-Stabilization and Accelerate Turnover of D1
Authors: Ohad Nir , Amir-Shapira Dekel , Koike Hiroyuki , Inoue Yorinao , Ohad Itzhak , Hirschberg Joseph
Published: August 2018

Isogenic strains of Synechococcus PCC 7942 were genetically engineered so that copy I of the gene psbA was mutated at specific sites. These mutations resulted in replacements of Ser 264 by Gly or Ala and of Phe 255 by Tyr or Leu in the D1 protein. The mutants were resistant to herbicides inhibiting electron transfer in photosystem II. All mutants exhibited alterations in the stability of QB
- as demonstrated by a temperature downshift, to various extents, of the in vivo thermoluminescence emission. Measurements of the light-dependent turnover of D1 showed a marked decrease in the t 1/2 of this protein in the mutants as compared to wild-type, under low to medium light intensities. A correlation was found between the degree of pertur­ bation in the QB
- stability and the rate of acceleration in the turnover of D1. These data pro­ vide a direct evidence for the overlapping binding sites for the plastoquinone B and herbicides in the D1 protein. In addition these data indicate a close link between QB
- destabilization in reaction center II and the mechanism controlling the light-dependent turnover of D1. Based on these results and previous work we suggest that destabilization of the semireduced quinone, facilitates a light-induced damage in D1 which triggers its degradation.
Targeted Deletion Mutagenesis of the β Subunit of Cytochrome b559 Protein Destabilizes the Reaction Center of Photosystem II
Authors: Pakrasi Himadri B. , Nyhus Karin J. , Granok Howard
Published: August 2018

Oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis techniques were used to delete the psbF gene, encoding the β subunit of the cytochrom e b559 protein of the photosystem II complex in the cyano­ bacterium, Synechocystis 6803. Cyt b559 is an integral com ponent of PS II complex. However, its precise functional role in PS II remains to be determined. Previously, we created a mutant in which the psbF gene as well as three of its neighbouring genes, psbE , psbL and p sb i were simultaneously deleted from the chrom osom e of Synechocystis 6803 (Pakrasi, Williams and Arntzen, EMBO J. 7, 325 -332 , 1988). This mutant had no PS II activity. However, the role of any one of the four individual gene products could not be determined by studying this mutant. The newly generated mutant, T 256, had only one gene, p sbF , deleted from the genome. This mutant was also impaired in its PS II activities. In addition, it had barely detectable levels of two other protein com ponents, D1 (herbicide binding protein) and D2, of the reaction center of PS II, in its thylakoid membranes. In contrast, two other proteins of PS II, CP47 and CP43 were present in appreciable amounts. Fluorescence spectra (77 K) of the mutant showed the absence of a peak at 695 nm that was previously believed to originate from CP47. In addition, phycobilisomes, the light-harvesting antenna system of PS II, were found to be assembled normally in this mutant. We conclude that the presence of the β subunit of Cyt b559 in the thylakoid membranes is critically important for the assembly of PS II reaction center.
Fluorescence Induction Characteristics of Wild-Type and Herbicide-Resistant Strain of the Photosynthetic Bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus
Authors: Horváth Gábor , Droppa Magdolna , Puskás Ágnes
Published: August 2018

Fluorescence induction characteristics have been studied in wild-type and atrazine-resistant mutant of Rliodobacter capsulatus. Fluorescence induction was found to be a useful technique to monitor the altered electron transfer in the atrazine-resistant mutants as well as in the different membrane fractions of wild-type R. capsulatus. In both cases, the proportion of the fast rise of variable fluorescence was increased indicating the enhancement of QA. I`n the mutant strain, the I50 value of triazine herbicide terbutryn was increased by 100-fold whereas the natural resistance of R. capsulatus against diuron was abolished by the mutation.
Hybrid Origin of Populus * jackii Confirmed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Its Bud Exudate
Authors: Greenaway W. , Davidson C. G. , Scaysbrook T. , May J. , Whatley F. R.
Published: August 2018

Bud exudate of Populus balsamifera contains an array of characteristic compounds. Bud exudate of P. deltoides contains a different array of characteristic compounds. The exudate of P. x jackii contains compounds characteristic of both P. balsamifera and P. deltoides, indicating its hybrid origin.
Comparative Investigation on Formation and Accumulation of Rare Phenylpropanoids in Plants and in vitro Cultures of Pimpinella major
Authors: Merkel B. , Reichling J.
Published: August 2018

Unorganized callus and leaf/root-differentiating callus cultures of Pimpinella major have been established in liquid nutrient medium. Their capacity to accumulate rare phenylpropanoids such as epoxy-pseudoisoeugenol tiglate, epoxy-anol tiglate and anol tiglate was compared with that of seedlings and whole plants. The unorganized callus cultures were not able to accumulate any phenylpropanoids. In comparison, the leaf/root-differentiating callus culture promoted the accumulation of epoxy-pseudoisoeugenol tiglate (up to 90 mg/100 g fr.wt.) but not that of anol-derivatives. The accumulated amount of EPT in PMD-SH was comparable with that in plant seedlings.
Characterization of Conformers of D 1 of Photosystem II Using Site-Directed Antibodies
Authors: Besford R. T. , Thomas B. , Huskisson N. S. , Butcher G. W.
Published: August 2018

Antibodies have been raised to synthetic peptides, corresponding to a region in the loop spanning helices 4 and 5 of D 1 protein (Ala 250-Phe 265) and to a region anticipated to be near the C terminus of mature D 1 (His 332-Ala 345). Polyclonal antibodies to the sequence His 332-Ala 345 reacted with a 32 kDa polypeptide in thylakoid preparations identified as D 1 from its resistance (pea) or susceptibility (wheat) to lysine-C degradation. A monoclonal antibody to His 332-Ala 345 reacted preferentially with a faster migrating polypeptide in SDS electrophoresis, a putative conformer of D 1. Polyclonal antibodies to the sequence Ala 250- Phe 265 also reacted with the faster running polypeptide but not with the population of molecules running at 32 kDa. The putative conformer of D 1 from wheat appears to be more resistant than the main D1 population to lysine-C degradation. Peptide analyses by Takahashi et al. [(1988) FEBS Lett, 240, 6 - 8 ] suggest Asn 335-Ala 344 lies at the processed C terminus. The present report provides immunological confirmation that this sequence is retained in mature D 1.
Efficacy of Different Hexacyanoferrates(II) in Inhibiting the Intestinal Absorption of Radiocaesium in Rats
Authors: Dresow Bernd , Nielsen Peter , Heinrich Hellmuth C.
Published: August 2018

The inhibitory effect of various oral doses of different hexacyanoferrate(II) compounds (HCF) and the influence of the time interval of HCF-administration on intestinal 134Cs-absorption was studied in rats. Optimum inhibition was obtained by administration of HCF together with or 2 min before oral 134Cs loading. Using appropriate low amounts (0.1 -0.5 mg) of the different HCF compounds, the inhibitory effect increased in the sequence KZnHCF < KCuHCF < FeHCF < KCoHCF = KNiHCF < NH4FeHCF = KFeHCF . Oral administration of 5 mg (0.5 mg) of KFeHCF , together with 134CsCl loading, reduces 134Cs-absorption from 41 % (control) to 0.8% (2.8%).

Zinc-, copper-, cobalt, and nickel hexacyanoferrates(II), despite showing a high caesium sorption capacity in vitro, were less effective in rats and are not suited for in vivo application, also because they may produce toxic side effects. As a consequence, the orally administered colloidal-soluble iron (III) hexacyanoferrates(II) (NH4Fe[Fe(CN)6] and KFe[Fe(CN)6]) have to be considered as the most valuable countermeasure against radiocaesium absorption for humans and domestic animals in the case of a severe nuclear accident in the future.

Manganese oxide, a non-hexacyanoferrate(II) compound with known in vitro caesium binding capacity, showed no inhibitory effect on radiocaesium absorption in rats.
Ontogenetic Patterns in Amounts and Proportions of Dufour's Gland Volatile Secretions in Virgin and Nesting Queens of Lasioglossum malachurum (Hymenoptera: Halictidae)
Authors: Ayasse Manfred , Engels Wolf , Hefetz Abraham , Lübke Gunther , Francke Wittko
Published: August 2018

In the primitively eusocial sweat bee, Lasioglossum malachurum, 66 volatile compounds could be identified from queen Dufour’s gland secretions. The patterns found in gynes and in old nesting queens differed in the absolute amounts of extractable volatiles as well as in the relative proportions. 3-Methyl-3-butenyl octadecanoate is the main component in gynes, while 18-octadecanolide, 20-eicosanolide and 22-docosanolide largely dominate the bouquets of old queens. The probable roles of some specific compounds in pheromonal communication of mates and in nest recognition are discussed. Correlations with the volume of the fat body and the vitellogenic status of the ovary are described.
Short-Wavelength Absorbing Complexes of Chlorophyll a in Micellar Solution of Cationic Detergents
Authors: Schmidt A. , Gottstein J. , Scheer H. , Scherz A.
Published: August 2018

Micellar aggregates have been prepared from chloro­phyll a. Whereas most detergents including non-ionic, zwitterionic and anionic ones, produce aggregates with long-wavelength shifted and enhanced QY absorption, the cationic detergents hexadecyl-trimethylammonium-bromide and hexadecyl-pyridiniumchloride produce complexes with opposite traits: The QY absorption is shifted to shorter wavelengths, and it is hypochromic. The optical activity is increased as in the long-wave­ length shifted complexes, but the cd bands are non-conservative and coincide with the absorption maxima. The complexes are most likely small aggregates of chlorophyll with a changed geometry as compared to the “standard” ones.
A Survey of Alkaloids in Spartium junceum L. (Genisteae-Fabaceae)
Authors: Greinwald Roland , Lurz Gabriele , Witte Ludger , Czygan Franz-Christian
Published: August 2018

The alkaloid pattern of Spartium junceum has been investigated. Cytisine, N-methylcytisine, anagyrine, rhombifoline and epi-baptifoline occur as major compounds in most of the samples studied. Considerable quantitative differences were found between various parts of the plant. The alkaloid content changed strongly dependent on the seasons. Only a limited variation can be ascribed to geographical origin.
Chemotherapy of Filariasis -On the Search of New Agents Effective on the Reproductive System of Female Adult Worms
Authors: Singh Jujhar , Seth M. , Fatma Nigar , Sharma Satyavan , Bhaduri A. P. , Chatterjee R. K.
Published: August 2018

The design and synthesis of a series of alkyl 5(6)-substituted benzimidazole-2-carbamates (1-13), 7-chloro-4-(4-substituted phenyl)aminoquinolines (14-16), l,2-dim ethyl-3-m ethoxycarbonyl- 4,5-disubstituted pyrroles (17-19) and some compounds belonging to the class pimelonitrile (20), dihydroquinoline (21), pyridine (22), pyridoquinoline (23) and tetrahydropyrimidine (24) have been carried out as possible antifilarial agents. All these compounds have been evaluated for their activity against male and female adult worms of Litomosoides carinii in cotton rats. The effect of these compounds was also observed on the reproductive system (condition of developing microfilariae and their release from uterus) of adult female worms. In this study, three types of compounds were discovered: (a) those which showed activity on both the male and female adult worms and also had sterilizing effects on surviving adult females (1 -3 , 6 - 9 , 13, 19), (b) those which only sterilized the adult females (14-16 , 21, 24), and (c) those which had no effect on female reproduction but killed only adult worms (4, 5, 11, 12, 17,18, 20, 22, 23). This tends to open up a new avenue in the chemotherapy of filariasis and the future scope of work on chemosterilization of adult females has been discussed.
Notes: Determination of Germanium in Some Plants and Animals
Authors: Hara Sigeki , Hayashi Nanao , Hirano Sigeo , Zhong Xi-Ning , Yasuda Shigejiro , Komae Hisashi
Published: August 2018

The Ge contents of plants and animals were investigated by a wet ashing procedure by hydride generation and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry with flow injection. The analytical results obtained indicated that Ge contents widely vary in plant and animal kingdoms in the range of 8 -203 ppb.
New Rotenoids from the Root Bark of Jamaican Dogwood (Piscidia erythrina L.)
Authors: Tahara Satoshi , Narita Eriko , Ingham John L. , Mizutani Junya
Published: August 2018

A further investigation of the root bark constituents of Jamaican dogwood (Piscidia erythrina) has revealed two new pyrano-rotenoids, (+)-erythynone and (+)-12a-hydroxyerythy-none. Both compounds co-occur with (-)-rotenone, and two additional rotenoids [(-)-12a -hydroxyrotenone and (-)-villosinol] not previously isolated from P. erythrina. Root extracts were also found to contain the rare isoflavone durmillone. The stereochemistry of all five Piscidia rotenoids was examined by ORD and CD spectrometry. These studies indicated that erythynone and 12 a-hydroxyerythynone were antipodal to naturally occurring (-) -6 aS; 12 aS-rotenone at the B/C ring junction.
Evidence for a Vacuolar-Type Proton ATPase in Entamoeba histolytica
Authors: Löhden-Bendinger Ursula , Bakker-Grunwald Tilly
Published: August 2018

Entamoeba histolytica Entamoeba histolytica is a primitive eukaryote that lacks mitochondria, Golgi and a well-developed endoplasmic reticulum. Close to half of the cell volume is occupied by pinocytic vesicles, which are in continuous turnover with the plasma membrane and perform functions that in higher eukaryotic cells are taken over by lysosomes. Similar to the latter, the amebal vesicles are acidified. We report here that bafilomycin AI, a specific inhibitor of vacuolar-type (V-) ATPases, suppressed this acidification at submicromolar concentrations; concom itantly, it inhibited pinocytosis. These results strongly suggest the presence of a V-ATPase in pinocytic vesicles of E. histolytica, and thereby support the notion that the V-ATPases in the organelles of higher eukaryotes are derived from an archaic plasma membrane-bound form.
Biotransformation of Monoterpenes by Polyurethane Foam-Immobilized Cells of Petroselinum crispum (Mill) Nyman
Authors: Gbolade A. A. , Lockwood G. B.
Published: August 2018

Cells of Petroselinum crispum cv. “Paramount” and “Plain-leaved” immobilized in polyurethane foam retained the biotransformational characteristics of their freely suspended cells for certain monoterpenic substrates. Immobilized cells of both cultivars were more efficient than their free cells in isomerizing geraniol into nerol, but less efficient (<60% ) in reducing the aldehydes, citral and citronellal. Maintenance of the immobilized cells under the condition of growth limitation did not enhance the efficiency of the biochemical reactions. Under the same condition, the freely suspended cells of cult. “Paramount” exhibited higher efficiency (up to 1.6 times) of biotransformation of citral when compared to those in sucrose-supplemented media. This investigation lends support to the view that the biochemical productivity of cultured plant cells for especially monoterpenoids may not necessarily be improved upon immobilization.
The Presence of Malate Dehydrogenase in Thylakoids of Anabaena cylindrical Nostoc muscorum and Chlorogloeopsis fritschii
Authors: Sallal A.-K. J. , Nimer N. A.
Published: August 2018

The location of malate dehydrogenase in the cyanobacteria, Anabaena cylindrica, Nostoc muscorum and Chlorogloeopsis fritschii was investigated by the fractionation of cell-free extracts. The bulk of the enzyme activity was associated with the thylakoid membrane fraction, which also exhibited complete photosynthetic electron transport reactions. Malate dehydrogenase activity and photosystem II activities were inhibited by homologous antisera raised against isolated thylakoid membranes.
Changes of the Polypeptide Composition in Thylakoid Membranes during Differentiation
Authors: Droppa Magdolna , Masojidek Jiri , Horváth Gábor
Published: August 2018

Changes in membrane polypeptide composition during greening of etiolated maize were investigated to confirm the existence of the developmental polypeptides of 12 - 15 kDa described recently in virescent soybean mutant [M. Droppa, M. L. Ghirardi, G. Horváth, and A. Melis, Biochim. Biophys. Acta 932, 138 - 145 (1988)]. These low molecular weight polypeptides were the most abundant proteins at the early stage of greening, but were largely absent from fully developed thylakoids. During greening the relative concentration of the 12-15 kDa polypeptides were inversely proportional to that of LHC II, suggesting a role of these polypeptides in the assembly of the LHC II and/or chloroplast development.
Light-Induced Activation and Synchronization of the Cytochrome P-450 Dependent Monooxygenase System
Authors: Häberle W. , Gruler H. , Dutkowski Ph. , Müller-Enoch D.
Published: August 2018

The light-induced enhancement of the 7-ethoxycoumarin-O-deethylase activity was measured in a reconstituted system, consisting of the enzyme P-450PB-B and the NADPH -cytochrome P-450 reductase. The relative increase of the activity was about 15%. It is shown that the product release process is accelerated by light. The phases of the catalytic cycle of 2 x 1012 protein complexes were locked by periodic application of light pulses (0.1 s duration, 1.32 s repetition time, and 390 -470 nm, 0.27 joule/nmol P-450). More than 80% of the active reconstituted enzyme complexes (= “molecular machines”) worked in phase after a few light pulses. The phase relation continued even after switching off the light pulses. The catalytic cycle time was 1.54 s, giving a turnover number of 39 min-1. The turnover number, as determined from the enzyme activity under optimum conditions, was 39 min-1. Due to the dissociation constant of the P-450PB-B:NADPH - P-450 reductase complexes [3] only 24% of the proteins were in the active (= working) state under the conditions used. The lifetime of this complexes is larger than 6 s since more than 4 cycles of the free running enzyme can be observed. This is the first report, that all catalytic active complexes in the test tube can be synchronized by an external light source, if the right repetition time of the pulses is chosen, so that all these “molecular machines” work in phase.
Evidence that Cytochalasins Reduce the Size of Polymerization Nuclei during Actin Polymerization
Authors: Wendel Hanns , Dancker Peter
Published: August 2018

In a double-logarithmic plot of the rate of actin polymerization against monomer concentration, the slope has a lower value in the presence of the fungal metabolites cytochalasin B and D than in their absence. This suggests that actin oligomers which serve as polymerization nuclei are smaller in the presence of cytochalasins than in their absence.
The Ribulose Bisphosphate Carboxylase/Oxygenase of Prochlorothrix hollandica: Purification, Subunit Structure and Partial N-Terminal Sequence Analysis of the Large Subunit
Authors: Hawthornthwaite A.M. , Beanland T. J. , Howe C. J. , Codd G. A.
Published: August 2018

Ribulosc bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase was purified to apparent homogeneity from the carboxysomes of Prochlorothrix hollandica.The MW of the native enzyme was estimated to be 560,000 Dalton, comprising large subunits (LSU) of 57,000 Dalton and small subunits (SSU) of 13,000, probably in an 8LSU8SSU quaternary structure. Enzyme activity was maximal at pH 8.0 at 30°C. The requirement of activity for Mg2+ could not be replaced by Mn2+, Co2+, Ca2+ or Cu2+.Amino acid N-terminal sequence analysis of the LSU showed a high degree of conservation when compared to cyanobacterial and chloroplast LSU sequences but was too short to allow a reliable phylogenetic assignment of P. hollandica.
Time-Course of Pyrrolizidine Alkaloid Processing in the Alkaloid Exploiting Arctiid Moth, Creatonotos transiens
Authors: Nickisch-Rosenegk Eva von , Schneider Dietrich , Wink Michael
Published: August 2018

The processing of dietary pyrrolizidine alkaloids by larvae and adults of the arctiid moth Creatonotos transiens was studied in time-course experiments: In larvae, pyrrolizidine alkaloid uptake is quickly followed by the transformation of the alkaloids into their N-oxides. Further- more, if 7 S-heliotrine is applied, a stereochemical inversion of the hydroxyl group at C 7 to 7 R-heliotrine can be observed within 48 h of feeding. The rate of this biotransformation is substantially higher in males which use the 7 R-form later as a precursor for the biosynthesis of 7 R-hydroxydanaidal, a pheromone. The resorbed pyrrolizidine alkaloids are deposited in the integument within 48 h, where they remain stored during the larval, pupal and partly also the imaginal stages. Virtually no alkaloids are lost during ecdysis. Some pyrrolizidine alkaloids can be recovered from the meconium which is released at eclosion by the imagines especially when disturbed. In the adults pyrrolizidine alkaloids are processed in different ways by the two sexes: In females, about 50-80% of total alkaloids are transferred from the integument to the ovaries and the eggs within 2 - 3 days after eclosion. If females mate with alkaloid-rich males they additionally receive with the spermatophore up to 290 jig pyrrolizidine alkaloid, which are further translocated to the eggs. A biparental endowment of eggs with acquired defence alkaloids is thus achieved. In males, 30-50% of pyrrolizidine alkaloids remain in the integu- ment; about 10 - 30% are transferred to the scent organ, the corema, where they are converted into 7 R-hydroxydanaidal. Another part (about 40%) is passed to the spermatophore. In the laboratory experiments, the sizes of the coremata and their respective 7 R-hydroxydanaidal contents are strongly dependent on the availability of dietary pyrrolizidine alkaloids during L6 and especially L7 stages. In the L7 stage even short-term feeding (4-6 h) on Senecio jaco- haea is sufficient to induce large coremata.
Chemical Composition of Chickpea, Cicer arietinum, Exudate
Authors: Rembold H. , Weigner Ch.
Published: August 2018

The exudate dry matter of the Cicer arietinum geno­ type ICC 506 is composed of three main organic acids, malate (61.2%), oxalate (28.6%), and glucose-6 -phosphate (5.5%). Minor com ponents are citrate (2.5%), succinate (1.2%), m alonate (0.6%), oxalacetate (0 .2 %), and fumarate (0 .2 %).
Further Novel 6,7-Dimethoxy-8-Prenylated Coumarins from the Aerial Parts of Phebalium elatius ssp. becklevi
Authors: El-Turbi Jamila A. , Alexander James A. , Gray Alexander I. , Waterman Peter G.
Published: August 2018

From the aerial parts of Phebalium elatius ssp. beckleri six novel coumarins have been isolat­ ed. These com pounds are all based on a 6,7-dimethoxycoumarin nucleus with a modified C-8 isoprenyl substituent. The prenyl side chains were identified, primarily on the basis of NMR studies, as 1,2-epoxy-3-methylbut-3-enyl = (+)-6 -methoxyphebalosin (1), 1-acetoxymethyl-2-methylprop-2-enyl = (+)-6 -m ethoxyisomurralonginol acetate (2), 1,2-epoxy-3-hydroxy-4-(3-m ethylbutanoyloxy)-3-m ethylbutanyl = 1 ′,2′-epoxy-6-methoxycasegravol-4′-(3-methyl)-butanoate (3), 1-(S)-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-oxobutanyl = (+)-6 -methoxymurranganon (4), 3-methyl-2-oxotetrahydrofuran-4-yl = 6-methoxy-3′.4′-dihydroisomicrominutin (5) and (E)-3-hydroxy-3-methylbut-l-enyl = 6 -methoxymurraol (6).
Variation in Bud Exudate Composition of Populus nigra Assessed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Greenaway W. , English S. , Whatley F. R.
Published: August 2018

Bud Exudate, GC-MS Bud exudates from twelve clones of Populus nigra originating from seven countries were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and the principal compounds identified. Specimens of P. nigra var betulifolia differed in bud exudate com position from the other specimens analyzed, and were more similar in exudate com position to P. deltoides than were the other specimens. The range of bud exudate com position was greater than that which would be expected to occur within a single coherent species.
Uptake of Alkaloids by Latex Vesicles and Isolated Mesophyll Vacuoles of Chelidonium ntajus (Papaveraceae)
Authors: Hauser Marie-Theres , Wink Michael
Published: August 2018

Latex vacuoles of Chelidonium majus (Papaveraceae) naturally sequester protoberberine and benzophenanthridine alkaloids. Isolated vesicles take up a number of other heterologous alkaloids, such as 9,10-dihydroergocryptine, vinblastine, strychnine, nicotine, colchicine, lupanine, and 13-hydroxylupanine, with a strong preference for the indole alkaloids and for nicotine. Kinetic data clearly show that the uptake proceeds via simple diffusion and not by carrier-mediated transport. The alkaloids are concentrated in the vesicles against a concentra­ tion gradient. MgATP has no influence on alkaloid uptake. It is likely that alkaloids are trapped in the vesicles by chelidonic acid (concentration in latex 58 mM, in vesicles 661 mM) which com plexes these alkaloids and thus prevents their rediffusion out of the vesicles. Uptake of these alkaloids by leaf protoplasts and vacuoles of Ch. majus, by vacuoles of suspension-cultured cells of Lupinuspolyphyllus and by rabbit erythrocytes was studied for comparison.
Computer Analysis of Phytochrome Sequences from Five Species: Implications for the Mechanism of Action
Authors: Partis Michael D. , Grimm Rudolf
Published: August 2018

The amino acid sequences of phytochrome from Avena sativa, Oryza sativa, Curcurbita pepo, Pisum sativum and Arabidopsis thaliana have been analyzed with a variety of computer programs, with a view to identifying areas of the protein which contribute to the properties of this photoreceptor. A region at the C-terminus has been shown to be amphiphilic, and by ana­logy with surface-seeking peptides, may be responsible for interaction of phytochrome with lipid bilayers. Possible targeting sequences in phytochromes have been identified, including a series of four basic residues which correspond to those responsible for transport of nuclear-located proteins. Sites capable of post-translational modification have been found in monocot sequences, but not in dicot sequences. Areas of the phytochrome molecule which are exposed on the surface of the portein, and which are therefore capable of interaction with other cellular macromolecules, have been identified. Analogies with other biliproteins have been used to define minimum chromophore-protein interactions. Possible enzymic activities associated with phytochromes have been discussed with respect to local amino acid sequence similarity with enzymes.
Timing of Changes in Protein Synthesis Pattern in Elicitor-Treated Cell Suspension Cultures of Parsley ( Petroselinum crispum)
Authors: Bollmann Joachim , Hahlbrock Klaus
Published: August 2018

The timing of changes in the protein synthesis pattern of elicitor-treated, [35S]methionine-labelled parsley cells (Petroselinum crispum) was analyzed by two-dimensional gel electropho­ resis. Five groups were distinguished from a large number of elicitor-responsive as well as un­ responsive proteins. Two groups were synthesized de novo either early or late after elicitor ap­ plication; two other groups were strongly reduced in their rates of synthesis either early or late after elicitor application; and one group was not appreciably affected at all. The elicitor-in-duced changes altered the total protein com position considerably. A few selected, induced pro­ teins were functionally identified. These included two early induced enzymes, phenylalanine amm onia-lyase (PAL) and 4-coum arate:C oA ligase (4C L), and a late induced enzyme, a ber-gaptol O-methyltransferase (BM T) which is specifically involved in the biosynthesis of furano-coumarin phytoalexins. The biological significance of the observed differential timing of changes in protein synthesis rates is discussed.
Aneuploid and Polyploid Cellular DNA Heterogeneity in Insect Cell Material of Diptera Species Analyzed by Flow Cytometry
Authors: Ulrich Wolfgang
Published: August 2018

Flow cytometric 1-parameter DNA analysis and 2-parameter DNA /protein analysis have been performed with cell material of the diptera species Chironomus thummi, Drosophila

melanogaster, Calliphora vicina and Musca domestica using an impulse cytophotometer with a new quartz objective, that was especially manufactured for cytofluorometric investigations. The occurrence of heterogenous cell populations with aneuploid and polyploid DNA content within the cell material of different developmental stages of diptera species have been determined, whereby in larvae polyploid cell populations and in imagos aneuploid cell populations predominate. Partially separation of 2C cells from other cell populations with higher DNA content can be done by Ficoll-Hypaque centrifugation as demonstrated with cell material from Chironomus larvae. For flow cytometric DNA analysis of insect cell material a simple and rapid cell preparation and staining technique is presented by using the DNA-specific fluorochrome DAPI in combination with the protein fluorochrome sulforhodamine 101. Employment of flow cytometry in diptera genetics might be a new tool for cytological and cytogenetic investigations as shown with the classical genetic objects Chironomus and Drosophila
Beiträge zur Chemie der Flechtengattung Lasallia Mérat / On the Chemistry of the Lichen Genus Lasallia Merat
Authors: Posner Birgit , Feige Guido Benno , Leuckert Christian
Published: August 2018

The secondary product patterns of eleven Lasallia-species, L. asiae-orientalis Asah., L. brigantium (Zsch.) Llano, L. capensis (Frey) Llano, L. hispanica (Frey) Sancho & Crespo, L. membranacea (Laur.) Llano, L. papulosa (Ach.) Llano , L. pensylvanica (Hoffm.) Llano, L. pertusa (Rass.) L lano, L. pustulata (L.) Merat, L. rossica Dombr. und L. sinensis Vej are investigated by hplc. In addition to gyrophoric acid, lecanoric acid, umbilicaric acid, 7-chloroemodin, valsarin and skyrin, which were described before, hiascic acid and ovoic acid were found by means of hplc-cochromatography , UV -and mass spectrometry and the reac­tion of hiascic acid with acetone. The secondary product pattern of Lasallia-species is useful for systematic purposes. A key of the species is provided. The distribution of secondary prod­ucts within the thalli is discussed.
Identification by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry of 150 Compounds in Propolis
Authors: Greenaway W. , May J. , Scaysbrook T. , Whatley F. R.
Published: August 2018

Propolis was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for both its headspace volatiles and for the less volatile components of its alcoholic extract (propolis balsam). 181 peaks were located of which 171 representing 150 compounds were identified, including 28 identified in propolis for the first time. The majority of compounds were typical of poplar bud exudate.
Composition of the Surface Lipids from the European Mole (Talpa europaea)
Authors: Jacob Jürgen , Hoppe Udo
Published: August 2018

The surface lipids of the European mole consist of squalene, monoester waxes, triglycerides and cholesterol. As shown by GC/MS analysis, the fatty acid moieties of both monoester waxes and triglycerides belong to saturated unbranched , (ω-1)-and (ω-2)-methyl-substituted and unsaturated homologous series. Double bonds are located at the 7/8-and 9/10-position. Apart from the cis-also trans-isomers were found. The alcohol moieties of the monoester waxes consisted of saturated unbranched , (ω-1)-an d (ω-2)-methyl-substituted homologous series exclusively.
Biogenic Amine Levels in the Haemolymph of the Cabbage Armyworm Larvae (Mamestra brassicae) Following Injection of Octopaminergic Insecticides
Authors: Shimizu T. , Takeda N.
Published: August 2018

Changes in haemolymph biogenic amine levels of the cabbage armyworm , Mamestra brassicae, last instar larvae following injection of octopaminergic insecticides were investigated by using HPLC-ECD. When octopaminergic insecticides, chlordimeform or 2-(4-chloroo- toluidino)-2-oxazoline (AC-6), are injected, 4-tyrosine (TYR-4) is increased 10 min after injection. Clonidine injection also caused an increase of TYR-4. Based on these results, chemically induced insect stress is discussed.
Incorporation of a Calliphora Arylphorin Gene into the Germ Line of Drosophila by P-Element-Mediated Transformation
Authors: Dorsch Martina , Scheller Klaus
Published: August 2018

Two arylphorin gene clones were inserted into the transposable p-element vector Carnegie 20 and injected into Drosophila rosy− mutants. Transponed animals were selected by their red eye colour and remated. We demonstrate by hybridization experiments the stable integration of the injected genes in the germ line of Drosophila. However, the incorporated genes are not expressed.
Haemocyanin Synthesis in the Crayfish, Astacus leptodactylus: in vitro Production by the Midgut Gland after Addition of Oxygen Binding Modulators and Exogenous Copper
Authors: Hennecke Rainer , Gellissen Gerd , Spindler Klaus-Dieter
Published: August 2018

Haemocyanin synthesis in the midgut gland of the crayfish, Astacus leptodactylus, was stud­ied in vitro. The addition of exogenous copper into the culture medium reduces the synthesis of total proteins and of haemocyanin. ʟ-lactate, uric acid and dopamine, which modify the affini­ty of haemocyanin towards oxygen, do not influence the biosynthesis of the polypeptide.
Influence of BAS-145138 on the Activity of Sulfonylurea and Imidazolinone Herbicides
Authors: Devlin Robert M. , Zbiec Irena I.
Published: August 2018

This study demonstrates that corn can be partially safened by BAS-145138 against sulfonylurea and imidazolinone herbicides. The corn seeds were impregnated with BAS-145138 by soaking the seeds for 6 h in solutions of the safener. BAS-145138 had no effect on corn growth. However, corn shoot and root growth in length, fresh weight, and dry weight was partially protected by BAS-145138 from the phytotoxic effects of the sulfonylurea herbicides thiameturon and CGA -136872. Similar protection was given to corn against the phytotoxic activity of the imidazolinone herbicides imazapyr, imazaquin, and imazethapyr. This study suggests that corn could be safened with BAS-145138 against the phytotoxic effects of residual amounts of sulfonylurea and imidazolinone herbicides found in fields where wheat/corn or soybean/corn rotations take place.
Plant Resistance Genes for Fungal Pathogens - Physiological Models and Identification in Cereal Crops
Authors: Knogge Wolfgang
Published: August 2018

The complex biological phenomenon “resistance” can be reduced to single Mendelian traits acting on both the plant and the pathogen side in a number of pathosystems. According to the “gene-for-gene hypothesis”, the outcome of a plant/pathogen interaction in these cases is incompatibility if a plant carrying a particular resistance gene and a pathogen with the complementary avirulence gene meet. This suggests a causal role of resistance genes in a recognition process initiating active plant defense responses. Fundamentally different strategies are followed to identify these genes molecularly depending on the plant and pathogen species involved. Fungal diseases of crop plants, especially those of cereals, cause dramatic yield losses worldwide. It is assumed that a molecular characterization of plant genes conferring resistance to fungal pathogens will lead to a better understanding of the plant defense system in general permitting the development of new methods of crop plant protection.
Quantitative Characterization of Soil Organic Matter and Its Fractionation Products by Solid State High Resolution C-13 (CPMAS) Spectroscopy
Authors: Fründ R. , Lüdemann H.-D.
Published: August 2018

In a systematic study the organic carbon content of typical Germ an soils was studied by solid state C-13 CPM AS spectroscopy.

In order to check the quantitative validity of the standard sodium hydroxide extraction procedure, which fractionates soil organic matter into hum in, humic acid, and fulvic acid also the high resolution solid state spectra of these fractions were determined.

The chemical information obtained from these spectra is discussed.
Aromatherapy: Evidence for Sedative Effects of the Essential Oil of Lavender after Inhalation
Authors: Buchbauer Gerhard , Jirovetz Leopold , Jäger Walter
Published: August 2018

The sedative properties of the essential oil of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Miller) and of its main constituents - linalool and linalyl acetate - were investigated in mice followed up in a series of experimental procedures. The significant decrease in the motility of female and male laboratory animals under standardized experimental conditions is found to be closely dependent on the exposure time to the drugs. Nevertheless after an injection of caffeine into mice a hyperactivity was observed which was reduced to nearly a normal motility only by inhalation of these fragrance drugs. In particular the correlation of the motility of the animals to linalool in serum is experimentally proven, thus furnishing evidence of the aromatherapeutical use of herbal pillows employed in folk medicine since ancient times in order to facilitate falling asleep or to minimize stressful situations of man.
The Modulation of the Calcium Transport by Skeletal Muscle Sarcoplasmic Reticulum in the Hibernating European Hamster
Authors: Agostini  , De Martino Luisa , Soltau Barbara , Hasselbach Wilhelm
Published: August 2018

Calcium transport of skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum was comparatively studied in hibernating and summer active European hamsters (Cricetus cricetus L.). Crude homogenates from psoas, soleus and mixed skeletal muscles were used. Protein yield was strongly reduced in the muscle homogenates of hibernating hamsters. The calcium concentration in the muscle of hibernating hamsters was increased to a much higher content than in the serum. In the same animals the maximal rate of calcium uptake and the calcium storing capacity of sarcoplasmic reticulum were augmented by 43% and respectively 17%. Kinetic experiments with various concentrations of free calcium revealed in the hibernating animals higher uptake rates and a lower apparent calcium affinity than in the summer active hamsters. Some shift of calcium uptake rate and calcium affinity similar to that of a fast-twitch muscle was also observed in winter active animals kept at 22 C under natural photoperiod. By contrast, the activity of the calcium dependent ATPase was not increased, suggesting a tighter coupling during hibernation between calcium dependent ATP-hydrolysis and calcium transport. No seasonal difference was observed in the calcium release by KCl-caffeine from calcium loaded vesicles of sarcoplasmic reticulum.

Proportion and size of fibre types were studied with cold cross sections from psoas and soleus muscles. An average atrophy of about 25% was found during hibernation in both muscles. Cytochemistry revealed, however, a different reduction of cross area between type-I- and type-11-fibres, which reaches values up to 46% in the type-I I-fast-fibres of the slow soleus muscle. Electron microscopy did not show any definite change in the distribution and amount of sarcoplasmic reticulum.

The results suggest that during hibernation a modulation in the properties of calcium transport ATPase of sarcoplasmic reticulum occurs to better support the calcium transport function at low temperatures, which in turn warrants the restoration of ion homeostasis in the course of the arousal.
A Simple Method for Counting Small Numbers of Cells by Flow Cytometry
Authors: Blaß Sabine , Lennartz Klaus
Published: August 2018

Enumeration of Viable Cells, FACS, Fluorescent Micro- spheres, Rat Brain Cells We describe a flow cytometric method for the quantitation of small numbers of cells that facilitates proliferation studies in microcultures. A constant number of fluorescent latex microspheres/sample is added to single cell suspensions prepared from the cultures. By flow cytometric analysis, cells are easily distinguishable from the microspheres and can be quantitated on the basis of their light scattering and fluorescence properties in contour plots. As the number of microspheres/sample is known, the relative proportions of cells and microspheres, respectively, can be converted into absolute cell numbers. This quick method is useful for any type of studies where cell numbers < 1 x 105 in a small volume are to be determined.