bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful combined liver and kidney transplant for COACH syndrome and 5‐yr follow‐up
Authors: Uemura Tadahiro , Sanchez Edmund Q , Ikegami Toru , Watkins David , Narasimhan Gomathy , McKenna Greg J , Chinnakotla Srinath , Dawson Sherfield , Randall Henry B , Levy Marlon F , Goldstein Robert M , Klintmalm Goran B
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  The COACH syndrome is a very rare disorder with cerebellar vermis hypoplasia, oligophrenia, ataxia, coloboma, and hepatic fibrosis. Nineteen cases with COACH diagnosis have been reported. Neurologic abnormalities are the first symptoms in most cases. Complications of the hepatopathy [portal hypertension, esophageal varices, and gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding] contribute extensively to the morbidity and lethality in the course of the disease. We describe a 28‐yr‐old female with COACH syndrome resulting in chronic renal and hepatic insufficiency. The patient was found to have significant mental retardation, truncal ataxia, motor abnormality and occulomotor abnormality. She began to develop GI bleeding and encephalopathy because of biopsy‐confirmed cirrhosis. We performed combined liver and kidney transplant after challenging discussion. Her postoperative course was uneventful, and she was discharged on the ninth postoperative day (POD). She has not had any problems at 1, 3 and 5‐yr follow‐up with excellent liver and renal function. This is the first description of successful combined liver and kidney transplant with long‐term follow‐up. The decision for transplant is challenging because COACH syndrome is rare with only descriptive characterization and patients have non‐progressive ataxia and mental retardation. However, our case shows that liver and kidney transplant can be medically successful, and the individuals achieve long‐term success if they have a stable neurological condition and an excellent support system.
Coagulation and fibrinolytic profiles and appropriate use of heparin after living‐donor liver transplantation
Authors: Kaneko Junichi , Sugawara Yasuhiko , Tamura Sumihito , Togashi Junichi , Matsui Yuichi , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Kishi Yoji , Makuuchi Masatoshi
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Heparin is widely used to reduce the incidence of vascular thrombosis after liver transplantation. Appropriate use of heparin based on changes in coagulation and fibrinolytic profiles, however, has not yet been discussed in detail. We performed living‐donor liver transplantation for 128 adult patients. In this series, dalteparin (25 IU/kg/d) was administered until post‐operative day (POD) 2. On POD 3, the anticoagulant drug was changed to heparin (unfractionated heparin sodium, 5000 U/d), the dose of which was changed according to the level of activated clotting time (ACT) targeted between 130 and 160 s. The plasma level of plasmin‐alpha2 plasmin inhibitor complex, thrombin‐antithrombin III complex (TAT), and fibrin degradation product D‐dimer (FDP‐DD) were monitored in the 21 patients. Predictors for heparin doses were analyzed among clinical parameters (n = 128). Four patients (3%) were complicated with thrombosis despite the above‐mentioned anticoagulation protocol. Transfusion and/or relaparotomy for hemostasis were necessary for bleeding in 19 patients (15%). The TAT level markedly elevated until POD 3 and FDP‐DD peaked later. The required heparin dose to maintain adequate ACT levels increased linearly until POD 8, and kept constant thereafter, which correlated with the weight of the liver graft (p = 0.01). Thus, frequent monitoring of the heparin dosage is necessary to keep the ACT level in the target range in the first post‐operative week. High hemorrhage complications in our series indicate that the lower target ACT range may be preferable in the second post‐operative week.
Use of low dose tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil and maintenance IL‐2 receptor blockade in an islet transplant recipient
Authors: Kaplan B. , West P. , Neeley H. , Martellotto J. , Iqbal R. , Gangemi A. , Hatipoglu B. , Benedetti E. , Oberholzer J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  The utilization of dual maintenance therapy with tacrolimus and sirolimus (the Edmonton protocol) has been widely adopted as standard immunosuppression for islet cell transplantation. This immunosuppression regimen has numerous toxicities including renal dysfunction, anemia, and recurrent aphthous ulcers. We present a case of a 63‐yr‐old Caucasian female who received an isolated islet transplant. Over the first six months post‐transplant, the patient developed severe anemia, intractable aphthous ulcers, and renal dysfunction. Islet transplant function was excellent and the patient is insulin‐independent since the end of the second month post‐transplant. However, because of the above toxicities, a decision was made to change her immunosuppression regimen eight months post‐transplant to low dose tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, and a monthly maintenance infusion of daclizumab. Since then, her aphthous ulcers have disappeared, renal function has improved, and islet cell function remains stable.
Diabetic gastroparesis‐associated bezoar resolution via “cola‐lysis”
Authors: Whitson Bryan A , Asolati Massimo , Kandaswamy Raja , Sutherland David E.R.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Phytobezoars associated with diabetic gastroparesis are often sources of diminished quality of life for patients. Poor blood sugar control has been associated with increasing gastroparesis. For recipients of pancreas transplants to correct diabetes, phytobezoar treatment post‐transplant can typically be limited to invasive procedures and prokinetic agents. We present the case of an alternative treatment to phytobezoar, cola libation, i.e., “cola‐lysis.”
Thrombotic microangiopathy following pancreas after kidney transplants
Authors: Lipshutz Gerald S. , Pham Phuong‐Chi T. , Ghobrial Mark R. , Wallace William D. , Miller Jeffrey M. , Pham Phuong‐Thu T.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Advances in immunosuppressive therapy and refinement in surgical techniques have allowed pancreas after kidney (PAK) transplantation to become a viable therapeutic option for patients with brittle type I diabetic recipients of a living donor or previous deceased kidney alone transplant. Although maintenance immunosuppressive therapy is not significantly changed after the addition of a pancreas, a temporary booster in immunosuppressive therapy and an increase in the dose of calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) are required after PAK transplantation. The latter has been implicated in the observed variable decline in kidney allograft function. We herein report two cases of kidney allograft dysfunction following PAK transplant due to biopsy‐proven transplant, thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Whether PAK transplantation pre‐disposes a subset of patients to the development of post‐transplant TMA is not known. Diagnostic kidney biopsies should be considered in PAK transplant recipients with worsening kidney allograft function.
Incidence of adverse events with HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors in liver transplant patients
Authors: Martin Jill E. , Cavanaugh Teresa M. , Trumbull Leslie , Bass Maryetta , Weber Fredrick , Aranda‐Michel Jaime , Hanaway Michael , Rudich Steven
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Transplant patients are at increased risk of developing dyslipidemia, which contributes to coronary artery disease and cardiovascular events. The purpose of this study was to explore documented adverse effects of liver transplant recipients receiving lipid‐lowering therapies.

Methods:  A retrospective chart review of 69 liver transplant patients was conducted to evaluate the incidence of adverse effects, especially rhabdomyolysis and liver function abnormalities, in liver transplant patients treated with a lipid lowering agent (LLA). Data were collected from the time of initiation of LLA to 12 months later, looking at the type, dose, and duration of LLA, concurrent cytochrome P450 inhibitors, immunosuppression used, and laboratory parameters.

Results:  For HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitor therapy, simvistatin was used in five (7.8%) patients, pravastatin in 40 (62.5%), fluvastatin in one (1.6%), atorvastatin in five (7.8%), and lovastatin in three (4.7%). Gemfibrozil, a fibric acid derivative, was employed as monotherapy in 10 (15.6%) of patients. There were five patients who received combination therapy with a fibric acid derivative, four (80%) with gemfibrozil + pravastatin, and one (20%) with gemfibrozil + simvastatin. Six patients studied had adverse effects, five (7.2%) with myalgia and one (1.4%) with myopathy. LLA monotherapy with either pravastatin or atorvastatin was used in these patients. The five patients with myalgia were on concurrent therapy with cyclosporin, and the patient with myopathy was on concurrent cyclosporin + diltiazem therapy, both of which are P450 inhibitors. One out of 23 patients on a non‐immunosuppressant P450 inhibitor developed adverse effects. No significant elevation of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, or alkaline phosphatase was noted in any patient.

Conclusions:  Overall, there was a general tolerability with a low incidence of adverse events, no incidence of severe complications, and no alterations in liver function tests in the study population with the use of LLA.
Obesity following kidney transplantation and steroid avoidance immunosuppression
Authors: Elster Eric A. , Leeser David B. , Morrissette Craig , Pepek Joseph M. , Quiko Albin , Hale Douglas A. , Chamberlain Christine , Salaita Christine , Kirk Allan D. , Mannon Roslyn B.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Obesity is an important co‐morbidity within end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) and renal transplant populations. Previous studies have suggested that chronic corticosteroids result in increased body weight post‐transplant. With the recent adoption of steroid‐sparing immunosuppressive strategies, we evaluated the effect of these strategies on body mass index (BMI) after renal transplantation. We examined 95 renal transplant recipients enrolled in National Institutes of Health clinical transplant trials over the past three yr who received either lymphocyte depletion‐based steroid sparing or traditional immunosuppressive therapy that included steroids for maintenance immunosuppression. Recipients were overweight prior to transplant and no significant differences existed in pre‐transplant BMI among treatment groups. Regardless of therapy, BMI increased post‐transplant in all recipients. The BMI increase consisted of an average weight gain of 5.01 ± 7.12 kg (mean, SD) post‐transplant. Additionally, in a number of recipients placed on maintenance steroids, subsequent withdrawal at a mean of 100 d post‐transplant had no impact on weight gain. Thus, body weight and BMI increase following kidney transplantation, even in the absence of steroids. Thus, patients gain weight after renal transplantation regardless of the treatment strategy. Steroid avoidance alone does not reduce risk factors associated with obesity in our patient population.
Adverse drug reaction driven immunosuppressive drug manipulations: a single‐center comparison of enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium vs. mycophenolate mofetil
Authors: Hardinger Karen L. , Hebbar Sudarshan , Bloomer Terry , Murillo Daniel
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Enteric‐coated mycophenolate sodium (MPS) has been developed to help circumvent the upper gastrointestinal side‐effects of mycophenolic acid by facilitating drug release in the small intestine. Many questions regarding the side‐effect profile of MPS remain. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to review a single‐center’s experience with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and MPS.

Methods:  This retrospective, sequential cohort analysis of de novo renal and pancreas transplants (n = 198) compared MMF 500 mg b.i.d. to MPS 360 mg b.i.d. in conjunction with antibody induction, tacrolimus, and steroids.

Results:  There were fewer adverse event driven drug manipulations in the MPS group at 90 d (4% MPS vs. 17% MMF) and 180 d (10% MPS vs. 24% MMF, p = 0.006, log‐rank) after transplantation. There was a trend toward fewer GI‐related hospital admissions in the MPS arm (7% MPS vs. 13% MMF, p = 0.18). Allograft outcomes including patient survival, graft survival, acute rejection, serum creatinine, and infection were similar.

Conclusion:  This single‐center, sequential cohort study demonstrates that MPS is associated with fewer adverse event driven drug manipulations while maintaining similar safety and allograft outcomes.
Cholesterol embolization in a renal graft
Authors: Ott Undine , Gerth Jens , Gröne Herman‐Josef , Gröne Elisabeth , Wolf Gunter
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Cholesterol embolization into native kidneys has a dim prognosis for renal function and frequently leads to irreversible renal failure. Although uncommon, cholesterol embolization may also occur in renal allografts, particularly if either the recipient or the donor has prominent atherosclerosis. We report here on a case of a 65‐yr‐old man with cholesterol emboli in the renal allograft and delayed graft function. The recipient’s arteria iliaca externa was a potential source because of heavy atherosclerosis. The patient was dialysis‐dependent for two wk after transplantation. However, renal function improved, no cholesterol emboli were found in a second biopsy of the graft and serum creatinine is 260 μmol/L six months after the transplantation. In the case of primary renal non‐function or dysfunction, cholesterol embolization must be considered in the differential diagnosis. If renal cholesterol embolization originates from the recipient, allograft survival is usually good. In contrast, if cholesterol embolization is of donor origin, graft dysfunction and subsequent graft loss are common. The reason for this difference may be the more extensive embolization developing in an atherosclerotic cadaver donor occurring during the organ procurement or the severe trauma leading to death.
Evidence for a need to mandate kidney transplant living donor registries
Authors: Emara Mahmoud , Ragheb Ahmed , Hassan Abubaker , Shoker Ahmed
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Kidney disease is a global public health problem of growing proportions. Currently the best treatment for end‐stage renal failure is transplantation. Living organ donation remains a complex ethical, moral and medical issue. It is based on a premise that kidney donation is associated with short‐term minimal risks to harm the donor, and is outweighed by the definite advantages to the recipient. A growing number of patients with end‐stage renal disease and shortage of kidney donors poses a pressing need to expand the criteria needed to accept kidney donors. The current donor registries are structured and are driven to expand donor pool. As living kidney donation is not without risks, more attention should be given to protect the donor health. After kidney donation, mild to moderate renal insufficiency may occur. Renal insufficiency, even mild, is associated with increased risks of hypertension, proteinuria and cardiovascular morbidity. We, therefore, foresee a need to mandate the establishment of renal transplant donor registries at all transplanting programs as a prerequisite to protect the long‐term well being of kidney donors. These registries can collect the database necessary to develop standards of practice and guidelines for future kidney donation.
A pitfall in screening with decoy cells after simultaneous pancreas kidney transplantation
Authors: Lard L.R. , Van Der Boog P.J.M. , Veselic M. , Vossen A.C.T.M. , De Fijter J.W. , Groeneveld J.H.M.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  In this report, we describe a bladder‐drained simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplant (SPKT) recipient with a polyoma virus‐associated nephropathy (PVAN) in whom the urine cytology failed to detect decoy cells despite repeated attempts. Several tests were performed to confirm our hypothesis that pancreatic enzymes can degrade decoy cells and granulocytes. This case illustrates an important pitfall in the urinary screening for PVAN with cytology and for urinary tract infections with urine sediment in bladder‐drained SPKT recipients.
Clinical improvement of nephrogenic systemic fibrosis after kidney transplantation
Authors: Panesar Mandip , Banerjee Satyaki , Barone Gary W.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) has been observed with increased frequency in recent years. Progressive hardening of the skin advancing to severe woody induration and the development of thickened hyperpigmented plaques on the extremities and the trunk are the main clinical features. Further progression of the disease results in flexion contractures of the upper and lower extremities, resulting in immobilization and severe morbidity. In this study, we reviewed our experience with seven end‐stage renal disease patients who were referred to our center between January 2004 and June 2005 for kidney transplant evaluation or for diagnosis and treatment of their deteriorating condition. Diagnosis in all patients was confirmed by skin and muscle biopsy. Three of these patients underwent renal transplantations, and softening of the skin and improved mobility of the joints was noted after kidney transplantation. Three of the four patients who remained on dialysis showed further deterioration of their NSF despite a trial of immunosuppressive therapy. Improvement after transplantation could be secondary to immunosuppression, increased renal clearance and/or more effective fluid management.
Plasmids in Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans strains isolated from periodontal lesions of patients with rapidly destructive periodontitis
Authors: Olsvik Bente , Preus Hans R.
Published: August 2010

Several strains of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans newly isolated from periodontal lesions of patients with rapidly destructive periodontitis were all shown to possess identical plasmid profiles consisting of 4 plasmids. The largest plasmid, 20 MegaDalton (MDa), was also found in reference strains. Two different methods were used for isolation of the plasmids; the large 20 MDa plasmid (pHRPl)was found using the Kado and Liu method only. The 3 small plasmids of 7.0, 5.2 and 4.0 MDa (pHRP2, pHRP3, pHRP4), respectively, were seen using the Birnboim and Doly method. These plasmids are so far to be regarded as cryptic; no phenotypical characters have been linked to their presence. The large 20 MDa plasmid was found in all strains examined, and may be a genotypical marker for the A. actinomycetemcomitans species.
Multiple forms of proteases of Bacteroides gingivalis and their cellular location
Authors: Fujimura Setsuo , Nakamura Takeshi
Published: August 2010

Protease of Bacteroides gingivalis ATCC 33277 was found in intracellular membrane‐free, intracellular membrane‐bound and extracellular fractions. The insoluble form of proteases was solubilized with a detergent. The elution patterns of proteases on gel filtration in each fraction were rather different. However, enzymatic properties of the proteases separated by gel filtration were very similar.
Characterization of CD4+ FOXP3+ T‐cell clones established from chronic inflammatory lesions
Authors: Okui T. , Ito H. , Honda T. , Amanuma R. , Yoshie H. , Yamazaki K.
Published: August 2010

Introduction:  Our previous study demonstrated that the gene expression of FOXP3, a characteristic marker for CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells in mice, is upregulated more in periodontitis than in gingivitis at the messenger RNA (mRNA) level. Furthermore, most of the T‐cell clones established from periodontitis lesions expressed FOXP3 mRNA. However, role of the FOXP3+ gingival T cells has not been elucidated.

Methods:  The phenotype of FOXP3‐expressing cells in periodontitis lesions was determined immunohistochemically. CD4+ FOXP3+ gingival T‐cell clones were established from three patients with advanced periodontitis by using immunomagnetic beads. Gene expression and phenotype analyses were performed by reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reactions and flow cytometry, respectively. The effect of CD4+ FOXP3+ T‐cell clones on the proliferative response of CD4+ CD25− T cells was examined by [3H]thymidine incorporation.

Results:  FOXP3 expression was found in some CD4+ T cells and CD25+ cells but not in CD8+ T cells by immunohistochemistry. In spite of a substantial expression of the CD25 gene, the expression level of membrane CD25 on the CD4+ FOXP3+ gingival T‐cell clones was low. While peripheral blood CD4+ CD25+ FOXP3+ cells suppressed the proliferation of CD4+ CD25− T cells, the CD4+ CD25low FOXP3+ gingival T‐cell clones enhanced the proliferation significantly.

Conclusion:  Our study makes it evident that most, if not all, of the FOXP3+ T cells in periodontitis lesions can be considered to be effector T cells. The effector activity of the gingival T‐cell clones could be attributable to the low level of membrane CD25 expression. Further studies are clearly needed to clarify the role of these T cells and their unique characteristics in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease.
Detection of Antibody to Hepatitis C Virus E2 Recombinant Antigen among Samples Indeterminate for Anti‐HCV after Wide Serological Testing and Correlation with Viremia
Authors: León P. , López J.A. , Elola C. , Domingo C.J. , Echevarría J.M.
Published: August 2010

The detection of antibody to the second envelope protein (E2) of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been hampered by the lack of suitable antigens. A previously described E2 recombinant antigen (CHO‐E2) expressed as a non‐fused, highly glycosylated protein in mammalian cells was used to detect specific antibody (anti‐E2) in samples from blood donors and viraemic patients showing positive or indeterminate results for anti‐HCV after a wide serological study. Anti‐E2 was detected in 50–75% of the donors positive for anti‐HCV, 80% of viraemic immunocompetent patients with anti‐NS3 alone and 28% of non‐viraemic donors with anticore alone. In donors with anti‐NS3 (15 samples) or anti‐NS4 (51 samples) alone, anti‐E2 was found occasionally (3 cases). Moreover, two anti‐E2‐positive samples from viraemic patients were misidentified by some commercial assays for screening anti‐HCV These results suggest that testing for anti‐E2 may be useful for improving the performance of the current assays for anti‐HCV screening and confirmation.
Monoclonal platelet antigen capture assays (MAIPA) and reagents: a statement
Authors: Kaplan C. , Freedman J. , Foxcroft Z. , Husebekk A. , Metcalfe P. , Muniz‐Diaz E. , Ouwehand W. , Panzer S. , Rozman P. , Skogen B. ,   on behalf of the International Society of Blood Transfusion – Working Party on Platelet Immunology
Published: August 2010

This statement concerning the monoclonal‐specific immobilization of platelet antigens (MAIPA) has been written on behalf of the International Society of Blood Transfusion – Working Party on Platelet Immunology. The MAIPA technique is considered as the gold standard reference technique in platelet immunology. The assay performed with reagents labelled for ‘research only’ is acceptable as long as it is regularly evaluated by participation of laboratories in national or international workshops held with reference laboratories.
The importance of using multiple techniques for detection of platelet antibodies
Authors: Smith G. A. , Ranasinghe E. , Ouwehand W. H.
Published: August 2010

In red cell immunology, it has long been known that no one technique will detect all clinically significant antibodies. The same appears to be true for platelet immunology, and we highlight this fact by showing four examples of anti‐human platelet antigen‐1a that were not detected by the monoclonal antibody‐specific immobilization of platelet antigen test, the most commonly used technique. Each antibody was found in a case of fetomaternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia in which the fetus or neonate was severely affected.
Recruiting and retaining young people as voluntary blood donors
Authors: Misje A. H. , Bosnes V. , Heier H. E.
Published: August 2010

Objectives  Reasons for predonation deferral of young potential donors and prospects of recruiting and retaining young people (age 18–29) as voluntary blood donors were studied.

Study Design and Methods  Three different sources of data were analysed: (i) the subsequent donation history of 2057 donors who started their donation career at the Blood Bank of Oslo (BBO) in 1999, age and gender of all new donors accepted for donation at BBO in 2004 was retrieved from electronic data files; (ii) data on reasons for predonation deferral, age and gender of all deferred prospect donors at BBO in 2004 was obtained from original screening questionnaires; and (iii) results from a national telephone survey of the general population's attitudes regarding blood donation, conducted in 2005.

Results  Twenty‐five per cent of the first‐time donors recruited in 1999 remained active in 2005, but the percentage was higher among older than younger donors. Change of residency was the most frequent reason for termination of donation among young donors. Young prospect donors were more frequently than older ones deferred for lifestyle‐related reasons. Prospect donors older than 30 years were more frequently deferred for health‐related reasons. A large proportion (57·7%) of young adults reported a favourable attitude towards becoming blood donors. Lack of a personal request (not being asked) was the most frequently reported reason for not giving blood among young people with no donation record. Only a minor proportion of young non‐donors considered themselves disqualified from donating blood due to health status.

Conclusions  Lifestyle‐related eligibility criteria and changes of residency pose problems for recruitment and retention of young donors. However, a large proportion of young adults state that they are able and willing to donate blood; therefore, the prospects of recruiting young people as voluntary blood donors seem generally positive.
The acceptability to women in Mombasa, Kenya, of the donation and transfusion of umbilical cord blood for severe anaemia in young children
Authors: Hassall O. , Ngina L. , Kongo W. , Othigo J. , Mandaliya K. , Maitland K. , Bates I.
Published: August 2010

Background and Objectives  Severe anaemia, for which a blood transfusion can be life saving, is common in hospitalized children in sub‐Saharan Africa but blood for transfusion is often in short supply. Umbilical cord blood is usually thrown away but could be a useful source of red cells for small volume transfusions in young children in this setting. The objective of this study was to evaluate the attitudes of women using the maternity services of the provincial hospital in Mombasa, Kenya, towards cord blood donation and transfusion, and essential aspects of this process including informed consent and the acceptability of screening for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

Materials and Methods  A structured questionnaire was developed based on data provided by focus group discussions with women attending the hospital's maternity unit and administered to women who had recently delivered at the hospital.

Results  Of the 180 women who completed a questionnaire, the donation and transfusion of cord blood were acceptable to 81% and 78%, respectively. Ninety per cent of women who supported cord blood donation were willing to undergo further HIV testing at the time of delivery. Seventy‐seven per cent of women wanted informed consent to be sought for cord blood donation and 66% of these felt they could make this decision alone.

Conclusion  The donation of umbilical cord blood and its transfusion are acceptable to the majority of women delivering at Coast Provincial General Hospital, Mombasa. Findings from the study will benefit the planned cord blood donation programme at this facility.
Production of the green lacewing Chrysoperla caranea (Steph.) (Neuropt., Chrysopidae) reared on semi‐artificial diet based on the algae, Chlorella vulgaris
Authors: Zaki F. N. , Gesraha M. A.
Published: August 2010

The larvae of the aphid lion Chrysoperla carnea (Steph.) were reared on a semi‐artificial diet for laboratory rearing. Algae, Chlorella vulgaris Beij was used as a source of protein for the nutrition of the predator. Feeding the newly hatched larvae of the predator on water extract of the algae by using a small piece of sponge, extended the larval duration up to 30 days, and the larvae failed to pupate. The addition of carbohydrates, salts and vitamins was necessary to the larvae to complete their development to reach the pupal and adult stages. Normal adult longevity and egg deposition were obtained after the addition of the carbohydrates, salts and vitamins.
Monitoring phytoplasma‐bearing leafhoppers/planthoppers in vineyards in the Golan Heights, Israel
Authors: Klein M. , Weintraub P. G. , Davidovich M. , Kuznetsova L. , Zahavi T. , Ashanova A. , Orenstein S. , Tanne E.
Published: August 2010

In the course of identifying the vector(s) of the grapevine yellows (GY) and western‐X (WX) phytoplasmas in the Golan Heights, leafhopper and planthopper species were examined. The planthopper, Hyalesthes obsoletus, was trapped on yellow sticky traps or collected on weeds; there was a relatively small peak during two weeks in June and during four weeks starting mid‐September. The leafhoppers, Neoaliturus spp. and Circulifer sp. (of the haematoceps complex) were both trapped early or very late in summer, but could be collected on weeds throughout the summer. The two remaining leafhopper species, Macrosteles quadripunctulatus and Orosius orientalis (=albicinctus) were only rarely caught on sticky traps, but were found on weeds throughout the summer. Phytoplasmas were found within the body of these five species; all are historically known to be efficient vectors of various phytoplasmas and were therefore chosen for further investigations.
Abundance and sensitivity of beneficials in deciduous fruit as a decision tool for selectivity testing
Authors: Berres M. , Sechser B.
Published: August 2010

Thirty‐two selectivity tests on apple trees were evaluated in order to determine the best timing for selectivity tests based on the predominance of various beneficial groups and their sensitivity to pesticides during the season. In the testing method used the whole insect populations of apple trees were measured. For the purpose of this evaluation the numbers of beneficial species were aggregated at the family/order level (Anthocoridae, Miridae, Nabidae, Coccinellidae, Hymenoptera and Araneae, respectively). Logarithmically transformed figures of the species counts in azinphos‐methyl‐ and water‐treated trees, plotted over the observation period, demonstrated that the months of June to August are the most suitable ones for carrying out selectivity tests on fruit trees. The sensitivity of the various beneficial groups were obtained by comparing the logits of the mortality rates of azinphos‐methyl and water by weighted t‐tests. The sensitivity did not vary greatly over the testing season from June to October for all groups except Miridae during the second half of the season. This can be explained by the predominance of the less sensitive adults ready for hibernation.
Prey vulnerability and active predator choice as determinants of prey selection: a carabid beetle and its aphid prey
Authors: Lang A. , Gsödl S.
Published: August 2010

Petri dish experiments were conducted to study various aspects of prey selection in the predatory carabid Poecilus cupreus. The potential influence of active and passive prey selection, relative prey frequencies and hunger state of the carabid beetle were investigated with respect to the predation of aphids. For prey the focus was on the aphid Rhopalosiphum padi, and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster and the house cricket Acheta domestica were used as prey for comparison. Both search time and handling time for live prey items was longest for A. domestica, shorter for D. melanogaster and shortest for R. padi. Absolute maximum consumption in numbers was lowest for A. domestica, whereas the consumed numbers of D. melanogaster and R. padi were not significantly different. In the prey preference experiments with live prey (passive selection), P. cupreus ranked prey types in the order R. padi > D. melanogaster > A. domestica. Due to the predation activity of P. cupreus, prey frequencies changed in the course of the experiments; however, the relative abundance of alternative prey did not affect prey preferences. Although starved P. cupreus consumed slightly more prey individuals, the different saturation level of the carabids had no influence on prey preferences. In the preference experiment with dead prey (active choice), rank order of prey selection was reversed: P. cupreus now selected prey types in the order A. domestica > D. melanogaster > R. padi. The results indicate that for P. cupreus, the cricket A. domestica is the most attractive prey, Drosophila is at an intermediate position, and R. padi is the least attractive one. Nevertheless, in live prey tests P. cupreus preferred the aphid R. padi, probably because this prey type was easier to catch. The results suggest that the outcome of predator–prey encounters in P. cupreus is determined by prey vulnerability rather than by active choice of the carabid predator. Therefore, it is argued that the predation impact of carabid beetles on aphids depends not only on the presence and value of alternative prey, but also strongly on the escape efficiencies of the different prey species. Hence, in studying prey preferences of carabids with the aim of evaluating their effectiveness against aphids, a closer examination is necessary of the behavioural parameters affecting the outcome of specific carabid–prey encounters.
Effect of time of year on the development of immature stages of the Large Pine Weevil (Hylobius abietis L.) in stumps of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis Carr.) and influence of felling date on their growth, density and distribution
Authors: Moore R. , Brixey J. M. , Milner A. D.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  The time of year and time of felling of a commercial stand of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis Carr.) were both shown to influence the spatial distribution and development of the large pine weevil, Hylobius abietis (L). Stump and root systems were excavated over a 5‐month period in 1997, between 18 and 27 months after felling, and all immature H. abietis removed. On a site with a 6‐month spread of felling dates in 1995, mean larval weights in 1997 were higher in stumps from earlier fellings, but H. abietis numbers were higher in stumps from later fellings. This appeared to be due to the continued presence of older, heavier larvae, laid as eggs in 1995, in stumps from earlier fellings, combined with a greater concentration of oviposition having occurred in 1996 in the fresher stumps of later fellings. Pupae were first found in excavated stumps on 12 June 1997 and adults on 29 July 1997. Emergence of the ‘new generation’ of adult weevils commenced on 7 August 1997. On average, 25% of H. abietis adults emerged in autumn 1997, 41% in 1998 and 34% in 1999. First emergence (1997) was proportionally higher in the areas felled earlier in 1995 than those felled later that year. However, the opposite was found for third emergence (1999) where emergence was greater for stumps created later in 1995. Larger stumps contained greater densities of H. abietis. Total ‘potential’ emergence was estimated to be between 46400 and 170825 H. abietis/ha. However, emergence traps indicated that only 40–80% managed to complete their development and emerge successfully. It is suggested that within‐season felling date may be one of the most important factors affecting larval development, distribution and abundance; as well as subsequent damage levels associated with adult feeding. Consequently, knowledge of felling date could be crucial to developing methods of integrated forest management for this major forest pest.
Bioefficacy and mode of action of rocaglamide from Aglaia elaeagnoidea (syn. A. roxburghiana) against gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner)
Authors: Koul O. , Kaur H. , Goomber S. , Wahab S.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Rocaglamide, a highly substituted benzofuran, was isolated and identified as the main biologically active component in Aglaia elaeagnoidea (syn. A. roxburghiana) for gram pod borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner). Addition of rocaglamide to an artificial diet retarded the growth of neonate larvae in a dose‐dependent manner with EC50 values of 0.76 p.p.m. These values compared favourably with azadirachtin (EC50 = 0.23 p.p.m.). However, azadirachtin was apparently more potent than rocaglamide in inducing growth inhibition via oral administration to these first stadium larvae. The candidate compound was found to have LD50 and LD95 values of 0.40 and 1.02 μg per larva, respectively, in topical application against third instar larvae 96 h post‐treatment. However, these values for azadirachtin were 8.16 and 25.8 μg per larva for the same period. This shows that azadirachtin was less effective against third instar H. armigera larvae in inducing acute toxicity via topical treatment in comparison with rocaglamide. However, severe morphological larval deformities were observed in such azadirachtin‐treated larvae during the process of ecdysis. The cytotoxic nature of rocaglamide was established by evaluating dietary utilization and the results did not implicate any antifeedant effect but the toxicity‐mediated effect due to reduced efficiency of conversion of ingested food. It was obvious that feeding deterrence is not the primary mode of action but a centrally mediated effect, which could be due to the induced cytotoxicity at non‐specific cellular levels.
Efficacy of multiple biocontrol agents against the sweet potato whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) on tomato
Authors: Jazzar C. , Hammad E. A.‐F.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Biological control provides an environmentally harmonious and potentially stable management tactic to combat noxious pests such as Bemisia tabaci, notorious for its resistance to synthetic pesticides. Bioassays conducted under control chamber conditions integrating applications of the parasitoid Encarsia formosa, reared for 20 years on Trialeurodes vaporariorum, and the fungus Verticillium lecanii on the third‐fourth instar nymphs of B. tabaci on tomato, showed a comparable effect between the parasitoid‐fungus combined treatment and the fungus treatment alone (70.7% vs. 70.4%). Analysis of our results indicates antagonism between the two biocontrol agents related to the parasitoids’ ability to discriminate between infected and healthy B. tabaci nymphs. The parasitoid treatment alone produced 36.3% mortality, with no mortality in the distilled water controls. The behavioural performance of the parasitoid could have either genetic or environmental causes. Bioassays studying the feeding habit of the imported mirid predator Macrolophus caliginosus (adults) and the indigenous mirid Camptotylus reuteri (nymphs and adults) on eggs, or early second instar nymphs of B. tabaci, and choice preference tests indicated a significant difference in feeding between M. caliginosus and C. reuteri. There was no significant difference in percentage feeding of M. caliginosus on eggs (2.2%) or second instar nymphs (8.0%). There was a significant difference in feeding of M. caliginosus adults (18.6%) when offered eggs and second instars in the same arena compared with eggs or second instars offered separately. These results could be attributed to the biological behaviour of the predator having a type III functional response. Studies with the local C. reuteri species showed no significant difference in adult and nymphal consumption on second instars of B. tabaci compared with nymphs on eggs. However, C. reuteri adults fed less on eggs compared with nymphs. This local predatory species appears to be more efficient than M. caliginosus in feeding on particular stages of B. tabaci without depending on prey density. This is further supported by the low consumption of both adults and nymphs in the choice test (4% and 2.3%, respectively) compared with M. caliginosus adults (18.6%).
A mass rearing method for the linyphiid spider species Erigone atra (Blackwall) (Araneae: Linyphiidae)
Authors: Dinter A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  A mass rearing method for Erigone atra (Blackwall) (Araneae: Linyphiidae) allowing continuous laboratory rearing is described. Twenty 1–2‐day old spiderlings were kept together in plastic boxes, which were filled with soil containing a culture of the Collembola species, Lepidocyrtus lanuginosus (Gmelin) (Entomobryidae), and serving the spiders as a continuous available prey source. Once per week vestigial‐wing fruit flies of Drosophila melanogaster Meigen (Diptera: Drosophilidae) were provided as additional prey. In addition, the rearing boxes were filled with wood‐wool serving spiders as points of contact for their webs. After 3–5 weeks most of the spiderlings developed to adults, which were separated individually into glass tubes filled with soil and Collembola until all of them became adult. To produce a new generation of spiders 20–40 adult/subadult spiders originating from different mass rearing boxes were brought together and kept and fed in the same way as the spiderlings. Within a few days females started to produce eggsacs. The eggsacs were transferred into glass tubes filled with a layer of moist plaster of Paris until the spiderlings hatched, which were then bred as described above. Erigone atra was bred over 12 generations within a period of 2 years. The mean rearing success (from 1 to 2‐day‐old spiderlings to adults) was 59.3%. Decreasing rearing success, decrease of fecundity or decrease of adult spider size were not observed. Advantages and use of the mass rearing method are discussed in relation to rearing methods for other spiders.
Side‐effects of mancozeb on Spodoptera exigua (Hübn.) larvae
Authors: Adamski Z. , Ziemnicki K.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Side‐effects of ethylenebis‐dithiocarbamate fungicide mancozeb on larvae and imago of Spodoptera exigua was tested. Two different concentrations of the pesticide were used. We focused on the changes at three levels: population, single organisms and antioxidant enzymes. Decreased survival, disturbances and malformations in development, changes in the activity of tested enzymes were observed. Insects showed different response to the stress, depending on the concentration of the pesticide in the nutrient. Observed results suggest that this xenobiotic plays an important role in environmental pollution.
Feeding behaviour of Helicoverpa armigera larvae on insect‐resistant transgenic cotton and non‐transgenic cotton
Authors: Zhang J.‐H. , Wang C.‐Z. , Qin J.‐D. , Guo S.‐D.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Feeding behaviour of Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lep.; Noctuidae) larvae on non‐transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), Zhong 30, and transgenic cowpea trypsin inhibitor (CpTI)‐Bt cotton, SGK 321, and non‐transgenic cotton, Shiyuan 321, was investigated in both choice tests and no‐choice tests. The results of choice tests suggested that neonates have the ability to detect and avoid transgenic cotton. In the choice tests of neonates with both transgenic and non‐transgenic cotton leaves, a significantly greater proportion of larvae and higher consumption were observed on non‐transgenic cotton than on the transgenic Bt or CpTI‐Bt cotton. In the choice tests with leaves of two transgenic cotton lines, the proportion of neonates on leaf discs of the two lines was not significantly different, but there was significantly higher consumption on CpTI‐Bt transgenic cotton than that on Bt transgenic cotton. In addition, significantly more neonates were found away from the leaf discs, lower consumption and higher mortality were achieved in the choice test with two transgenic cotton leaves than in the choice tests containing non‐transgenic cotton leaves. Leaves and buds were examined in choice tests of fourth instars. It appeared that fourth instars were found in equal numbers on transgenic and non‐transgenic cotton, except when larvae were exposed to leaves for 3 h. However, the total consumption on transgenic cotton was lower than that of the non‐transgenic cotton, so fourth instars may still have the capacity to detect transgenic cotton and reduce feeding on it, although they showed no preference on either transgenic or non‐transgenic cotton. More larvae were found off diet in the treatments with leaves than that of buds, and the number of injured leaf discs by per fourth instar was significantly higher than that of buds in choice tests, suggesting that leaf is a less preferred organ for H. armigera larvae, elicited more larval movements. Similarly, in no‐choice tests of fifth instars, significantly fewer feeding time and more moving time occurred on leaf than that of bud, boll and petal. When cotton line was considered, compared with non‐transgenic cotton, significantly lower feeding time and higher resting time occurred on the two transgenic cottons. Overall, H. armigera larvae have the ability to detect the transgenic Bt and CpTI‐Bt cottons or the less preferred organs and selectively feed more on the non‐transgenic cotton or the preferred organs, especially the neonates, which have a high capacity for avoiding transgenic cotton.
Fluorescent differential display analysis of gene expression for NPV resistance in Bombyx mori L.
Authors: Xu J. P. , Chen K. P. , Yao Q. , Liu X. Y.
Published: August 2010

Using the fluorescent differential display (FDD) technique, we analysed the differential expression of genes related to BmNPV (Bombyx mori nuclear polyhedrosis virus) resistance. Silkworm strains used included a highly resistant strain named NB, a highly susceptible strain named 306 and a near‐isogenic line named 306NNZZ. Two differential bands, G12532 and G13313, were found linked to BmNPV resistance and were further identified. Band G12532 was found in the midguts of the eighth generation of backcross (BC8) of strain 306NNZZ but was not present in those of strain 306. Reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis confirmed that the band existed in BC8 of strains 306NNZZ and NB while not in strain 306. Northern blot analysis showed that G12532 expressed actively in BC8 of strains 306NNZZ and NB while expressed inactively in strain 306. These results suggest that the G12532 is a fragment of the gene related to silkworm's resistance to BmNPV disease. The sequence of G12532 has an 85% similarity to sequences with GenBank accession numbers of AV398077 and AV398034 that are relative to BmNPV infection demonstrated by previous studies. Its coding region (37 amino acids) has 54% similarity with B. mori endonuclease and reverse transcriptase‐like protein. Band G13313 was appeared in the hemolymph of highly resistant strain NB and near isogenic line 306NNZZ in FDD, but was not found in highly susceptible strain 306, all of which were confirmed by RT‐PCR and Northern blot analyses. All the experimental results obtained suggest that G13313 is also a fragment of the gene related to BmNPV resistance. The sequence of band G13313 does not have a high similarity to the above relative sequences in GenBank. It might be a new RNA fragment related to NPV resistance. Our study also showed that the FDD technique could be a promising approach in identifying novel genes while appropriate silkworm strains are used.