bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncospheres of Taenia solium Develop into Cysticerci in Normal Mice
Authors: Liu Y. J. , Li Q. Z. , Hao Y. H.
Published: March 2003

In vitro‐hatched oncospheres of Taenia solium, prepared by the sodium hypochlorite method and adjusted to approximately 5 × 102/2ml phosphate buffer saline, were injected intramuscularly or intravenously into normal Balb/c mice. When these mice were sacrificed 2 months later, all cysticerci were exclusively recovered in the lungs from the mice with intravenous inoculation, but not with intramuscular injection. A high infection rate of 76% was obtained and a total of 45 cysticerci were collected from 50 mice. Thirty‐five cysticerci were mature and with normal appearance but the rest were either with abnormal appearance (4) or degenerated (6). These findings give strong evidence that T. solium oncospheres may migrate to the normal mouse lung through venous circulation and develop in this organ.
Immunization Against Ovine Haemonchosis with Three Low Molecular Weight Somatic Antigens of Adult Haemonchus contortus
Authors: Alunda J. M. , Angulo‐Cubillán F. , Cuquerella M.
Published: March 2003

Individual bands (15) from electroblotted soluble extracts of adult Haemonchus contortus were excised and three peptides of molecular weight ca. 56 (F4), 39 (F8) and 18.5 kDa (F14) used to vaccinate 4–4.5‐months‐old lambs against the nematode. Immunizing doses from each peptide were administered in 1 ml Freund complete adjuvant (first 50 μg injection) and 1 ml Freund incomplete adjuvant (second and third 50 μg injections) to six lambs. Two weeks after last immunization, animals were challenged with 300 L‐3/kg live weight (LW). Lambs were slaughtered 34 days after challenge. Immunization induced a strong antibody response estimated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, whereas no peripheral lymphoproliferative response was observed. Lambs in the F8‐vaccinated group showed on average delayed pre‐patent period, lower faecal egg counts and reduction of abomasal worm burdens, although the differences were not statistically significant.
Abundance, Tidal Movement, Population Structure and Burrowing Rate of Emerita analoga (Anomura, Hippidae) at a Dissipative and a Reflective Sandy Beach in South Central Chile
Authors: Jaramillo Eduardo , Dugan Jenifer , Contreras Heraldo
Published: March 2003

Abstract. To evaluate the effects of beach morphodynamics upon the abundance, tidal movement, population structure and burrowing rate of the crab Emerita analoga (Stimpson) (Anomura, Hippidae) we sampled two beaches in south central Chile (ca. 42° S), Mar Brava and Ahui with dissipative and reflective characteristics, res­pectively. The swash zone at the dissipative beach was 5 – 6 times wider than that of the reflective beach. A at the dissipative beach, upwash speeds were higher and the number of effluent line crossings were lower by more than an order of magnitude. To examine the tidal movement of E. analoga, we collected crabs from 5 to 6 tidal levels of each beach every 2 h across 12 h of the tidal cycle. The intertidal distribution of crabs differed between beaches; i. e., at the dissipative beach they were primarily located at the swash zone, while at the reflective beach they were mostly located at the low tide level and shallow subtidal. The change in position of crabs was pronounced across the tidal cycle at the dissipative beach (Mar Brava), with most of the animals remaining in the active swash zone. Body size data were used to construct size frequency distributions for each population. Crabs from the dissipative beach reached larger sizes than those at the reflective beach. Sediments were coarser at the latter versus the former beach. Crabs burrowed at similar rates in the sand from both beaches, a result which supports the idea that E. analoga is a “sediment generalist” capable of burrowing successfully in a wide range of sediment types. This characteristic is likely a key to the broad success of this species on the full range of beach morphodynamic types along the coasts of South and North America.
Centennial Changes in the Near‐Shore Mysid Fauna of the Gulf of Naples (Mediterranean Sea), with Description of Heteromysis riedli sp. n. (Crustacea, Mysidacea)
Authors: Wittmann Karl J.
Published: March 2003

Abstract. The marine mysid fauna of the Gulf of Naples is the best known in the Mediterranean, dating back to faunal lists and revisions given by founder authors in 1877 – 1929. Up to 1930, a total of 21 (currently valid) benthopelagic and benthic coastal species were recorded. The new census in 1975 – 2000 yielded no species in brackish and freshwaters (salinity range 0 – 30), only one species in mixoeuhaline waters (30 – 39), and 39 species in fully marine near‐shore waters (36 – 38). Most species were restricted to islands and submarine banks as hotspots of biodiversity, while only four species were also found along the more intensively urbanized continental coasts of the gulf. Compared with the situation in the 19th century, two marine species, Acanthomysis longicornis and Mysidopsis angusta, have disappeared from the Gulf of Naples, while still present in the less urbanized and largely oligotrophic Gulf of Salerno. The numbers of known euthalassobiontic species decreased in the ‘continental’ Gulf of Naples, but increased in the ‘insular’ gulf.

Local population extinctions are related mainly to human impact on freshwater input into shallow coastal waters. Urbanization processes favoured the disappearance of brackish and freshwaters from the surface (through drainage and canalization) and the deterioration (through urban and industrial pollution) of the remaining ones, resulting in eutrophication of coastal waters and in impoverishment of the benthos, such as the visible regression of seagrasses. Increased species numbers in the ‘insular’ gulf reflect the lower degree of urbanization in the less polluted peripheral zones and the increased use of more specific sampling methods in combination with improved knowledge of mysid biology.

With the use of epibenthic nets during the day and at night, Heteromysis (Heteromysis) riedli sp. n. was sampled from Posidonia oceanica meadows on the Island of ­Ischia. The males of the new species are exceptional in having a pair of modified, backwards‐oriented, flagellate setae terminally on the antennular trunc, while the females show only the usual forwards‐oriented, smooth setae in this position.
Long‐Term Changes in the Benthos of the Northern Adriatic Sea: A Phototransect Approach
Authors: Kollmann Herbert , Stachowitsch Michael
Published: March 2003

Abstract. The Northern Adriatic Sea has been repeatedly affected over the last three decades by bottom anoxia and benthic mortalities coupled with marine snow development. Eutrophication, meteorological conditions and climatic changes are among the cited causes for the occurrence of these disturbances, which, along with benthic fisheries, have a major impact on the investigated macro‐epibenthic community.

In this study, an underwater phototransect was used to evaluate percent coverage of macro‐epifauna in order to determine the long‐term recovery of the community after a mass mortality in 1983. The area covered by 72 categories of organisms and biogenic structures was measured between 1985 and 1994. The former keystone genera Ophiothrix, Reniera and Microcosmus contributed only a small percentage to the coverage by epibenthic fauna. Reniera spp. was only detected in 1994, Ophiothrix quinquemaculata covered minimal areas in only three years (1986, 1991 and 1994), and Microcosmus spp. was only positively identified in 1985. The percent coverage of living organisms increased from 1.4 % in 1985 to 6.2 % in 1994, although it collapsed in 1988 after a mortality and suffered a setback in 1990 (over a 19‐day period from 6.0 to 3.5 %) after commercial fishing activities. Non‐living, biogenic structures (shells, tests etc.) increased from 1.5 % in 1985 to 5.8 % coverage in 1994. Lebensspuren increased in the same period from 2.3 to 3.9 %.

The highly variable percent coverage values along the same transect from year to year show that the system was unstable. The original suspension‐feeding brittle stars, sponges and ascidians did not recover, while omnivorous hermit crabs increased. On the other hand, clear trends toward increasing coverage, interrupted by repeated anoxia and fisheries damage, were recorded. Although the aggregated distribution of the organisms (multi‐species clumps with intervening sediment surface) was partly preserved, these disturbances hindered the recolonization progress, which was very slow and did not lead to a climax stage of the former, intact community during this investigation.

The photo‐documentation method is a valuable supplement to diver‐taken samples – which yield absolute biomass values – and provides a considerable information gain, for example in detecting and quantifying lebensspuren.
Characteristics of dermatophytoses in Basrah, Iraq
Authors: Muhsin  , Al‐Rubaiy  , Al‐Duboon
Published: March 2003

A total of 1199 clinical specimens were collected from 1144 patients clinically diagnosed as cases of superficial cutaneous mycoses in Basrah (Iraq). The collected specimens were examined for the etiologic agents of dermatophytoses by direct microscopy and culture. A total of 237 isolates representing eight species of dermatophytes as a causative agents of skin and nails infections were isolated. Among the tinea infections, tinea corporis and tinea cruris were the most common types of dermatophytoses revealed in this study.
Case Report. Primary cutaneous histoplasmosis in an immunosuppressed patient
Authors: Romano Clara , Castelli A. , Laurini L. , Massai L.
Published: March 2003

A case of cutaneous histoplasmosis is reported in an 80‐year‐old man with rheumatoid arthritis who had been treated with steroid therapy for 15 years. The patient developed a large ulcerative lesion on the back of the left hand and on the distal third of the left dorsal forearm after a slight trauma. Diagnosis was based on histological and mycological examination. Systemic involvement was not found. The lesions healed after 2 months of therapy with 100 mg day−1 fluconazole, confirmed at follow‐up 1 year later.
Itraconazole lung concentrations in haematological patients
Authors: Coronel B. , Levron J. ‐C. , Van Devenne D. Dorez A. , Archimbaud E. , Mercatello A.
Published: March 2003

Itraconazole distribution is largely dependent on its high liposolubility. Intrapulmonary lung concentrations remain unknown in haematological patients. We report itraconazole lung concentrations in such patients treated with itraconazole. Itraconazole and hydroxy‐itraconazole were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography in concomitant blood samples and lung post‐mortem biopsies (three cases) or lung lobectomy (one case). These itraconazole and metabolite lung concentrations were sufficient to be active on Aspergillus.
A double‐blind randomized comparative trial: eberconazole 1% cream versus clotrimazole 1% cream twice daily in Candida and dermatophyte skin infections
Authors: Del Palacio Amalia , Ortiz F. J. , Pérez A. , Pazos C. , Garau M. , Font E.
Published: March 2003

Summary. In a double‐blind phase III study the efficacy and tolerance of eberconazole 1% cream was compared with clotrimazole 1% cream, applied twice daily for four consecutive weeks in 157 patients, with mycologically proven cutaneous candidosis (24 patients, 25 infected sites) and in 133 patients with dermatophyte skin infections (141 treated sites). The analysis was carried out by number of infected and treated sites. The four groups of sites and the distribution of target lesions were similar. The distribution of the sum of clinical scores and infecting organisms were also similar. There were no differences between the groups in terms of the range and mean duration of infection. At the end of therapy and on follow‐up in skin candidosis the proportion of patients with effective treatment was 73 and 50% for clotrimazole and eberconazole, respectively. Premature termination due to adverse effects was 26.7% for clotrimazole and 20% for eberconazole. At the end of treatment of dermatophyte infections the proportion of patients with effective treatment was 46% for clotrimazole and 61% for eberconazole. At the overall assessment (6 weeks after the end of treatment) eberconazole was judged effective in 72% of treated sites, whereas clotrimazole was effective in 61%, this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.15). There were three relapses (4%) in the clotrimazole‐treated group and one relapse (1%) in the eberconazole group. One patient treated with eberconazole cream (1%) had a premature termination due to adverse events attributable to the medication.
Identification and subtyping of Trichophyton mentagrophytes by random amplified polymorphic DNA
Authors: Kim J. A. , Takahashi Y. , Tanaka R. , Fukushima K. , Nishimura K. , Miyaji M.
Published: March 2003

Summary. Trichophyton mentagrophytes is one of the most common pathogens for human and animal dermatophytoses and known as a complex species with variable morphology, and ecologic and genetic backgrounds. We performed random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis on 43 human and 18 animal isolates of T. mentagrophytes along with other 10 anamorphic species of dermatophytes and three teleomorphic species of T. mentagrophytes. Using RAPD analysis with primer 5′‐ATGGATC(G,C)(G,C)C‐3′ (ATGS), all T. mentagrophytes strains produced identical band patterns with those of Arthroderma vanbreuseghemii, one of the teleomorphs of T. mentagrophytes, regardless of their phenotypes. Therefore, T. mentagrophytes could be identified by RAPD analysis with primer ATGS. Using RAPD analysis with primer 5′‐ATGGATCGGC‐3′ (ATG) on T. mentagrophytes, human isolates yielded two distinct subgroups related by their colony morphologies at the time of primary isolation from patients. Three morphologic types – cottony, powdery and persicolor – revealed identical bands whereas the granular type lacked one minor band (0.74 kbp). Animal isolates of T. mentagrophytes produced five band patterns and some of them were identical with those of human isolates. With primer 5′‐GAAGGCTCCC‐3′ (OPAO‐15), animal isolates of T. mentagrophytes showed diverse band patterns in contrast to the uniform band pattern of human isolates. These results suggest that RAPD analysis may be a useful tool to identify and subtype T. mentagrophytes complex.
Pancreatic toxicity after liposomal amphotericin B
Authors: Stuecklin‐Utsch A. , Hasan C. , Bode U. , Fleischhack G.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  Though liposomal amphotericin B has been available in Germany since 1992, efficacy and safety of this formulation of amphotericin B are still not well‐documented in children. As far as gastrointestinal side‐effects are concerned, an elevated alkaline phosphatase and elevated transaminases have been reported. In our department, liposomal amphotericin B had been used since 1994 to treat patients with proven or suspected fungal infections in a daily dose of 1–3 mg kg−1. Additionally, patients with high‐dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell support received liposomal amphotericin B prophylactically in a dose of 1 mg kg−1 three times per week. We performed a retrospective analysis of all 31 patients who had received liposomal amphotericin B by 1999. In five patients, an isolated transient elevation of the serum lipase level during, or shortly after, the therapy with liposomal amphotericin B was detected. Three of these patients showed clinical signs of pancreatitis, with one patient displaying slightly elevated transaminases. So far, elevated levels of serum lipase have not been described as a possible side‐effect of a liposomal amphotericin B therapy. The pathogenesis of this elevation is unclear. As possible reasons, an enzyme induction due to fat overload or a toxic damage of the pancreatic tissue by the liposomes or amphotericin B itself are discussed.
Case Report. Tinea pedis and onychomycosis in primary school children in Turkey
Authors: Inanir I. , Şahin M. T. , Gündüz K. , Dinç G. , Türel A. , Arisoy A. , Öztürkcan S.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  A cross‐sectional study was performed in two primary schools with different socioeconomic status in the suburban and central areas of Manisa, Turkey, in order to determine the prevalence of tinea pedis and onychomycosis. A full dermatological examination and a questionnaire on socioeconomic conditions were performed in agroup of 785 randomly selected children aged 6–14. Of 9 clinically suspected tinea pedis and 4 onychomycoses cases, KOH examination (direct microscopy) and/or mycological cultures were positive in six boys, in whom Candida glabrata and C. tropicalis grew. Older age and higher number of siblings were found to be significant factors for fungal infection.

Zusammenfassung.  In zwei Grundschulen mit unterschiedlichem sozio‐ökonomischen Status in Umgebung und Zentrum von Manisa (Türkei) wurde die Häufigkeit von Tinea pedis und Nagelmykosen untersucht. Eine ausführliche dermatologische Untersuchung und Befragung der sozio‐ökonomischen Bedingungen wurde bei 785 willkürlich ausgesuchten Kindern im Alter 6–14 Jahren durchgeführt. Von 9 Schülern mit Tinea pedis und 4 Schülern mit Nagelmykosen waren 6 Jungen im KOH‐Test und/oder mykologischer Kulturuntersuchung positiv, bei denen Candida glabrata und C. tropicalis isoliert wurden. Höheres Alter und Geschwisterzahl waren wichtige Risikofaktoren.
The value of the chest computed tomography halo sign in the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. An autopsy‐based retrospective study of 48 patients
Authors: Kami M. , Kishi Y. , Hamaki T. , Kawabata M. , Kashima T. , Masumoto T. , Oki Y. , Tanaka Y. , Sawada S. , Machida U. , Ohtomo K. , Kanda Y. , Hirai H. , Mutou Y.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  To evaluate the diagnostic value of a halo on computed tomography (CT) in the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), we retrospectively reviewed chest CT scans and autopsy reports for patients who had been admitted to our hospitals for the treatment of hematological malignancy. Pulmonary complications were suspected in all patients and chest CT scans were taken within a month of death. We examined the association between autopsy and CT findings in 48 patients who were diagnosed as IPA (n = 17), candidosis (n = 4), zygomycosis (n = 2), infiltration of hematological malignancy (n = 12), bacterial pneumonia (n = 6), cytomegalovirus pneumonia (n = 2), pulmonary hemorrhage (n = 2), or pulmonary congestion (n = 1). Patients with IPA showed a variety of CT findings, including halo (n = 13), nodules (n = 14), granular shadows (n = 3), masses (n = 6), consolidations (n = 9), wedge‐shaped consolidations (n = 1), and cavitation (n = 2). In contrast, 0, 11 and two of the 31 patients without IPA showed halo, nodules and masses, respectively. These signs were more frequently observed in IPA patients than in non‐IPA patients. The CT halo, especially, seemed to be specific for IPA in hospitalized neutropenic patients with hematological malignancies who developed antibiotic‐resistant fever. For CT findings other than these three signs, there were no significant differences between IPA‐ and non‐IPA patients.
Geographical variation of β‐amylase thermostability among varieties of barley (Hordeum vulgare) and β‐amylase deficiency
Authors: Kihara M. , Kaneko T. , Ito K. , Aida Y. , Takeda K.
Published: March 2003

Investigations onto the thermostability of β‐amylase in 274 varieties of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) indicated that all varieties except one were distributed into three types of high (type A), intermediate (type B), and low (type C) thermostability, respectively. One variety (TB29) from China showed no β‐amylase activity. Geographical variation was observed in the thermostability of β‐amylase. Type C varieties were not observed in East Asia (Japan, the Korean Peninsula, China and Nepal), although 36 out of 37 varieties in Ethiopia were type C. Most of the varieties were Type A in Japan, the Korean Peninsula and China, whereas the frequency of type A and type B were nearly equal in Nepal. Varieties in the other five areas (North America, North Africa, Southwest Asia, Turkey and Europe) consisted of types A, B and C. These results support the fact that East Asian cultivars are genetically different from those of the western regions, as previously reported.
Effects of loci determining photoperiod sensitivity (Ppd‐H1) and vernalization response (Sh2) on agronomic traits in the ‘Dicktoo’×‘Morex’ barley mapping population
Authors: Karsai I. , Mészáros K. , Szücs P. , Hayes P. M. , Láng L. , Bedö Z.
Published: March 2003

The objectives of this research were to determine the individual and interaction effects of the Ppd‐H1 and Sh2 loci on agronomic traits under short‐ and long‐photoperiod regimes. Nineteen doubled haploid (DH) lines from the ‘Dicktoo’×‘Morex’ mapping population, which represented the four genotypes at the Ppd‐H1 and Sh2 loci, were pheno‐typed in controlled environment photoperiods. Both Ppd‐H1 and Sh2 had significant effects on several agronomic traits, in addition to their role in determining first node appearance and flowering time. The magnitude of these effects depended on daylight. Under long‐day conditions (18 h) Ppd‐H1, and under short‐day conditions (12 h) Sh2 was a significant determinant of most characters. The interactions between these two loci were significant for several characters, particularly for yield components, under both long‐ and short‐photoperiod regimes. Under the long‐day treatment, Ppd‐H1 influenced plant height through the determination of node number. There was an epistatic association between the two loci for both 1000‐kernel weight and tillering. The combination of photoperiod insensitivity and vernalization requirement caused a significant increase in tillering. This was paralleled by a decrease in 1000‐kernel weight. Under the long‐day treatment, neither Ppd‐H1 nor Sh2 influenced plant yield. Under short‐day conditions, the combination of photoperiod insensitivity and vernalization requirement had a pronounced negative effect on plant yield.
Reaction of European spring barley varieties to a population of the net blotch fungus
Authors: Jørgensen J. Helms , Bech C. , Jensen J.
Published: March 2003

About 320 European spring barley varieties and about 40 spring barley lines were tested in the field for reaction to a local population of the spot form of the net blotch fungus Pyrenophora teres forma maculata with the imperfect stage Drechslera teres. The European barley varieties showed a wide range of disease reactions, from nearly resistant to very susceptible. At least three groups of genetically related barley varieties could be distinguished: (0)‘Agneta’ and ‘Clermont’, (2)‘Nordal’ and ‘Arve’, and (3)‘Tellus’,‘Pamina’, ‘Albert’ and ‘Birka’. The parentages of these three groups of barley are mutually distantly related and may thus constitute three different sources of resistance to the pathogen population used. The range of disease reaction is similar in varieties from different European countries but it differs among different breeding stations. The relatively high level of resistance is fairly uniformly distributed in contemporary barley varieties all over most of Western Europe. Over time, from about 1830‐1982, the average level of resistance varied around 4.0 (scale value) (from 2.8 to 4.8). However, since about 1940 the variation in disease reaction has become much wider (from 108 to 6.9) for unknown reason(s).
Changes in sugar beet mitochondrial DNA induced during callus stage
Authors: Sadoch Z. , Majewska‐Sawka A. , Jazdzewska E. , Niklas A.
Published: March 2003

The organization of mitochondrial DNA was studied in seed‐derived plants of sugar beet, Beta vulgaris L., and compared with the structure of DNA isolated from calli propagated in vitro. Tissues representing three genotypes (diploid male sterile, diploid maintainer and diploid fertile) were maintained under in vitro conditions for different periods before the DNA was analysed. Restriction fragment length polymorphism with BamHI and XhoI enzymes, and Southern hybridization with atpA and atp6 homologous probes were used. Hybridization experiments showed conspicuous differences in the organization of both genes in long‐term callus cultures (2 years or older). The novel organization of mitochondrial DNA in the calli of the male sterile genotype showed an additional 3.9 kb fragment after hybridization with the atp6, and 7.9 kb and 3.5 kb bands after hybridization with atpA. In the fertile genotype, changes in mitochondrial DNA structure were manifested in the disappearance of a 2.1 kb fragment after probing with atpA. Alterations induced in the mitochondrial genome of the male sterile line showed unique features in mtDNA rearrangements.
Development of an STS marker and SSRs suitable for marker‐assisted selection for the BaMMV resistance gene rym9 in barley
Authors: Werner K. , Pellio B. , Ordon F. , Friedt W.
Published: March 2003

Based on the RAPD marker OP‐C04H910 which is closely linked to the barley mild mosaic virus (BaMMV) resistance gene rym9 derived from the variety ‘Bulgarian 347’ the marker STS‐C04H910 cosegregating with OP‐C04H910 and generating a single additional band on plants carrying the recessive resistance encoding allele has been developed. Furthermore, the simple sequence repeats (SSRs) WMS6 and HVM67 have been integrated into the genetic map of the rym9 region on chromosome 4HL. Because of their close linkage to rym9 and distinct banding pattern STS‐C04H910 and HVM67 are well‐suited for marker‐ assisted selection, enhanced backcrossing procedures and pyramiding of resistance genes.
Inheritance of rust resistance genes and molecular markers in microspore‐derived populations of flax
Authors: Chen Y. , Kenaschuk E. , Dribnenki P.
Published: March 2003

The inheritance patterns of rust resistance genes and molecular markers in microspore‐derived populations of flax were investigated. Plants were produced from anther culture of F1 plants from two crosses. Microspore‐derived plants in anther culture of flax were identified using molecular markers. Two rust resistance genes and three out of six molecular markers were inherited in expected Mendelian ratios in microspore‐derived populations. Distorted segregation for the other three molecular markers was shown to be the result of over‐representation of genomic fragments from the more responsive parent in the F1 donor plant. The implication of this study in relation to androgenesis and flax breeding using anther culture is discussed.
Improving bacterial blight resistance of‘6078′, an elite restorer line of hybrid rice, by molecular marker‐assisted selection
Authors: Chen S. , Xu C. G. , Lin X. H. , Zhang Q.
Published: March 2003

Bacterial blight (BB), caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (X00), is one of the most devastating diseases of rice world‐wide; it is also a serious problem of hybrid rice production in China. In this study, a molecular marker‐assisted introgression of Xa21, a gene highly resistant to a broad spectrum of Xoo strains, from ‘IRBB21’ was performed to improve the BB resistance of‘6078′, a new restorer line with high yielding potential. The entire process took one generation of crossing followed by three generations of backcrossing and one generation of selfing. The presence of Xa21 in each generation was determined by both polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and pathogen inoculation. Recombinations between Xa21 and flanking markers were identified by PCR analysis. Background selection was conducted in BC1F1 and BC2F1 using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers detecting a total of 129 polymorphic bands between‘6078’ and ‘IRBB21′. The individual selected in BC3F2, or‘6078′(Xa21), carried a fragment of less than 3.8 cM from the donor line in the Xa21 region on chromosome 11, and about 98.8% of the genetic background from the recurrent parent. The results showed that‘6078′(Xa21) had the same level and spectrum of BB resistance as the donor parent ‘IRBB21′, while maintaining the agronomic performance and combining ability of the original 6078. A significant increase in BB resistance was also achieved in the hybrid using 6078(Xa21) as the restorer line.
Distribution of S haplotypes in commercial cultivars of Brassica rapa
Authors: Sakamoto K. , Nishio T.
Published: March 2003

Self‐incompatibility in Brassicaceae plants is sporophytically controlled by a single multi‐allelic locus (S locus), which contains at least three highly polymorphic genes expressed in the stigma (SLG and SRK) and in the pollen (SCR/SP11). Using polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) analysis with SXG‐specific primer pairs, the S haplotypes of F1 hybrid and open‐pollinated commercial cultivars of Brassica rapa were identified. The number of S haplotypes detected in the F1 hybrid cultivars of Chinese cabbage, komatsuna, pak‐choi, turnip, open‐pollinated cultivars of Chinese cabbage and turnip were 9, 9, 4, 11, 13 and 12, respectively. Nine of them had different PCR‐RFLP profiles from those of the S‐tester lines that determined the SLG sequences. Four SLG sequences in the F1 hybrid cultivars were determined and named S53, S54, S55 and S56, respectively. It is demonstrated that the PCR‐RFLP analysis using specific primer pairs of SLG and SRK is useful for identification of the S haplotypes, in both, S homozygous and S heterozygous plants of B. rapa. The possibility of using this method routinely in breeding programmes, and in the evaluation of F1 hybrid seed purity, is discussed.
Yield potential of barley corrected for disease infection by regression residuals
Authors: Hänsel H.
Published: March 2003

This study was initiated to find a method to correct the phenotypic yield for the yield decreasing influence of disease infection (= DC‐yield potential). The inter‐cultivar regressions of yield vs. disease infection were calculated in official trials in Germany and Austria with spring barley in 1983 and 1984 and with winter barley in 1996, 1997 and 1998, respectively. The residual of a genotype was interpreted as a measure of its DC‐yield potential. The cultivar range of the DC‐yield potential was 58.3% and 59.5% of the phenotypic yield range and the heritability of the residuals was about 10% below that of yield. In the spring barley experiments with and without fungicides the individual residual remained approximately constant even when the mildew infection changed remarkably, suggesting a useful predictability of individual yield performance when the degree of infection is changed either by environment, pathotype, or resistance genes.
RAPD variation within and among populations of globe artichoke cultivar ‘Spinoso sardo’
Authors: Lanteri S. , Di Leo I. , Ledda L. , Mameli M. G. , Portis E.
Published: March 2003

Globe artichoke is a vegetable native to the Mediterranean basin. Its commercial production is mainly based on perennial cultivation of vegetatively propagated clones, which are highly heterozygous and segregate widely when progeny‐tested. The aim of this study was to measure genetic variation using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) in five populations of ‘Spinoso sardo’, the most widely grown and economically important cultivar in Sardinia (Italy). Analysis of molecular variance (amova) gave highly significant differences between populations (28.1% of the total genetic diversity); substantial within‐population variation was detected (71.8% of total genetic diversity). The RAPD results show the need to apply clonal selection to narrow the broad genetic variability within the cultivar and to address important questions on the most suitable strategies for germplasm preservation.
A new DNA extraction method for high‐throughput marker analysis in a large‐genome species such as Triticum aestivum
Authors: Stein N. , Herren G. , Keller B.
Published: March 2003

Gene mapping and marker‐assisted selection in complex, polyploid genomes still relies strongly on restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis, as conversion of RFLP to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) markers can be very difficult. DNA extraction in amounts suitable for RFLP analysis represents the most time‐consuming and labour‐intensive step in molecular marker analysis of plant populations. In this paper, a new flexible method for plant DNA extraction is presented. It allows a high‐throughput of samples in a short time without the need for freezing or lyophilizing the plant material. The method allows the isolation of genomic DNA with a yield of 100 μg for a minimal amount of 200 mg of leaf material. This is sufficient for work with large‐genome plant species such as hexaploid wheat, where 20 μg of genomic DNA are required for a single RFLP analysis.
In vitro quantification of the reaction of barley to common root rot
Authors: Arabi M. I. , Jawhar M.
Published: March 2003

An in vitro technique was used to quantify the infection level of common root rot. This disease produces a brown to black discoloration of the subcrown internodes of barley. Quantification was based on the percentage of germinated infected pieces (1.5 mm) of subcrown internodes cultured on potato dextrose agar media. The disease severity was apparent among four different visually classified categories and numerical values for each category were applied. The results were highly correlated (r = 0.97, P < 0.01) among the different in vitro experiments, indicating that this testing procedure is repeatable. Highly significant differences (P < 0.001) were found for the length of first leaf and fresh weight between plants inoculated and uninoculated with common root rot. However, the effect of inoculation on fresh weight only differed significantly (P < 0.02) among the genotypes.
Genetic diversity of oilseed Brassica napus inbred lines based on sequence‐related amplified polymorphism and its relation to hybrid performance
Authors: Riaz A. , Li G. , Quresh Z. , Swati M. S. , Quiros C. F.
Published: March 2003

Significant heterosis for seed yield in oilseed rape has created interest in the development of hybrid cultivars. The DNA‐based marker protocol, sequence‐related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) was used to determine genetic diversity among oilseed rape maintainer and restorer lines. This measure was used in an attempt to establish an association between genetic distance and heterosis in hybrids for various agronomic traits. A total of 118 polymorphic loci were generated by 18 SRAP primer combinations. Based on the polymorphism generated by the markers, calculated similarity index values ranged from 0.46 to 0.97. Cluster analysis grouped 10 maintainer and 12 restorer lines into three groups, with the exception of two maintainer lines, PM5 and PM9, which fell outside these groups. The grouping of the lines was largely in agreement with the available pedigree data on their origin and agronomic performance. Analysis of variance among inbred lines and their resulting F1 hybrids over two locations revealed significant differences for plant height, days to maturity and seed yield, but not for oil content. Substantial mid‐parent heterosis was observed only for seed yield, and ranged from 26% to 169%. All hybrids surpassed their respective inbred lines for this trait, except for a single cross combination of related lines. In general, crosses of lines located in different clusters yielded more than those from the same clusters. Regression analysis revealed a statistically significant relationship between the genetic distance of the parents and seed yield in their hybrid, and their derived mid‐parent and high‐parent heterosis. The correlation coefficient between genetic distance and yield (0.64) indicated a moderately strong relationship, so it is possible that some of the SRAP markers might be linked to quantitative trait loci for seed yield.
Analysis of simple sequence repeat markers in homozygous lines of apple
Authors: Höfer M. , Gomez A. , Aguiriano E. , Manzanera J. A. , Bueno M. A.
Published: March 2003

Haploids in apple were induced using anther culture and in situ parthenogenesis followed by in vitro culture of immature embryos or cotyledons. In addition to an earlier characterization of the zygosity state using isozymes, the purpose of this work was an analysis of simple sequence repeats (SSRs) to describe the homozygosity more comprehensively. Five previously described SSR primer combinations were applied. Initially, polymerase chain reaction amplification with the primer pairs was performed on the donor genotypes ‘Alkmene’ and ‘Remo’ and on a further four apple cultivars. Only those primer pairs that amplified two different contrasting alleles could be used for investigation of the zygosity state. According to these analyses both the androgenic and parthenogenic regenerated shoots are homozygous.
Quality variations in transgenic rice with a synthetic cry1Ab gene from Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Wu D. X. , Shu Q. Y. , Wang Z. H. , Cui H. R. , Xia Y. W.
Published: March 2003

In order to estimate the potential of transgenic rice, characteristics related to grain quality and starch viscosity were investigated in six japonica lines based on three primary transgenic lines containing a synthetic cry1Ab gene from Bacillus thuringiensis. No significant differences were found between the transgenic lines and the wild type, including negative lines and an untransformed line. All six transgenic lines were comparable in size, milling quality, appearance quality and physicochemical properties to the wild type that were derived from. One exception was that the lines derived from the primary transgenic line TR0‐101 had smaller grains. Crude protein contents were equivalent in all the material tested, but Cry1Ab protein was only detected in grains of transgenic rice and was undetectable in the cooked rice. The viscosity of the starch differed between the transgenic lines, the wild type and other controls, and two transgenic lines had breakdown values (BDV) and setback values (SBV) similar to the wild type. A positional effect of T‐DNA insertion on starch viscosity was found in three primary transgenic lines.
Rind puncture resistance in maize: inheritance and relationship with resistance to pink stem borer attack
Authors: Butrón A. , Malvar R. A. , Revilla P. , Soengas P. , Ordás A. , Geiger H. H.
Published: March 2003

The main pest of maize in north‐western Spain is the pink stem borer, Sesamia nonagrioides, and stem lodging is one of the consequences of attack. Since rind puncture resistance is related to stem lodging resistance, the objectives of this work were to estimate the genetic effects involved in the inheritance of rind puncture resistance and to determine the phenotypic correlation coefficients between rind puncture resistance and pink stem borer damage. Six generations from the crosses ‘CM109’×‘EP31’ and ‘CM109’×‘EP42’ and a 10‐inbred line diallel were evaluated in Pontevedra, Spain, in 1995 and 1996. The inheritance of rind puncture resistance had two significant components, one additive and one dominant. Non‐allelic and genotype × environment interactions were not significant. Improvement for internode rind puncture resistance to increase stem strength and stalk lodging resistance could have some positive influence on resistance to pink stem borer. However, its use as an estimator of pink stem borer resistance cannot be generalized and so must be restricted to programmes that involve materials exhibiting physical resistance to pink stem borer attack.
Trait correlation of immature embryo culture in bread wheat
Authors: Wu B. H. , Zheng Y. L. , Liu D. C. , Zhou Y. H.
Published: March 2003

Immature embryo culture of 45 cultivars in bread wheat was conducted to investigate trait correlation in tissue culture response. Plantlets were regenerated mainly through somatic embryos confirmed by histological examination, but also confirmed by the trait correlation analysis. The incidence of calli with leaf‐like green spots as opposed to the time, rate and fresh weight of callus induction in dedifferentiation culture was significantly positively related to organogenesis both in differentiation and maintenance culture. It indicated the plant regeneration potential might be predicted early by the incidence of calli with leaf‐like green spots in the dedifferentiation stage. Significant positive correlation also occurred among all the organogenesis traits such as the rate of shoot and root regeneration, or the number and length of shoots.
Identification of a molecular marker linked to the closed capsule mutant trait in sesame using AFLP
Authors: Uzun B. , Lee D. , Donini P. , ÇAǧirgan M. L
Published: March 2003

The identification of an amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) marker linked to an agronomically useful trait in sesame is reported. A bulked segregant analysis (BSA) approach was adopted on segregating progenies of a cross between the closed capsule mutant line ‘cc3’, and the Turkish variety ‘Muganli‐57′. A total of 72 primer combinations were screened for linkage to the trait, but only one closely linked amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) marker was identified. The linkage was confirmed by analysing the AFLP profile from single plants. The marker has the potential to accelerate breeding programmes aimed at modifying unwanted side‐effects of the closed capsule mutation by marker‐assisted selection.
The Content of β‐endorphin‐like Immunoreactivity in Porcine Corpus Luteum and the Potential Roles of Progesterone, Oxytocin and Prolactin in the Regulation of β‐endorphin Release from Luteal Cells in vitro
Authors: Przala J , Kaminski T , Okrasa S , Siawrys G , Bogacka I
Published: March 2003

The amount of β‐endorphin‐like immunoreactivity (β‐END‐LI) in porcine corpora lutea from several stages of the oestrous cycle and the effects of progesterone, oxytocin, and prolactin on β‐END‐LI secretion in vitro by luteal cells were studied. Porcine corpora lutea obtained on days 1–5, 6–10, 11–13, 14–18, and 19–21 of the cycle were used to prepare extracts for β‐END‐LI determination. Additionally, corpora lutea from days 11–13 and 14–18 were enzymatically dissociated and isolated luteal cells were used for further study of β‐endorphin secretion in vitro. Cells were cultured in serum‐free defined M 199 medium (106 cells/ml) at 37°C under 5% CO2 in air, for 12 h. The influences of the following factors on β‐END‐LI secretion by luteal cells were tested: progesterone (10–9, 10–7 and 10–5M), oxytocin (0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 ng/ml), and prolactin (0.1, 1, 10 and 100 ng/ml). The β‐END‐LI contents in extracts and media were measured by radioimmunoassay. The tissue concentration of β‐END‐LI was lowest on days 1–5 of the cycle (0.35 ± 0.03 ng/g wet tissue). Subsequently, it constantly increased to the highest value on days 14–18 (16.58 ± 0.52 ng/g wet tissue) and on days 19–21 it declined (11.10 ± 0.52 ng/g wet tissue). Progesterone at a low dose (10–9 M) resulted in significant (p < 0.05) increases and decreases in β‐END‐LI secretion by luteal cells from days 11–13 and 14–18, respectively. Higher doses of progesterone (10–7 and 10–5 M) had no effect on β‐END‐LI release, compared with the control group. All dose‐levels of oxytocin used decreased β‐END‐LI secretion by luteal cells on days 11–13 and 14–18 of the cycle. Prolactin at doses of 0.1 and 1 ng/ml on days 11–13, and all doses tested on days 14–18 resulted in decreases in β‐END‐LI release from luteal cells. These results document evident changes in β‐END‐LI content in the pig corpus luteum during its development and indicate the potential roles of progesterone, oxytocin, and prolactin in luteal cell secretion of β‐END‐LI.
Combined GnRH and PGF2α Application in Cows with Endometritis Puerperalis Treated with Antibiotics
Authors: Janowski T , Zduńczyk S , Mwaanga ES
Published: March 2003

The investigations were carried out on a total of 70 cows with puerperal endometritis. In addition to intrauterine antibiotic treatment, 30 experimental animals were administered 20 μg GnRH analogue, buserelin, between days 10 and 12 post‐partum followed by 500 μg PGF2α analogue, cloprostenol, 10 days later. Forty control cows were treated only with intrauterine antibiotics. Blood samples for progesterone determination were collected from the tail vein twice weekly until day 70 post‐partum. The first rise in progesterone level above 3.18 nmol/l occurred significantly earlier in the experimental than in control cows (21.6 ± 9.2 versus 27.8 ± 12.3 days; p ≤ 0.05). The duration of the first cycle post‐partum was 15.0 ± 4.3 days in experimental and 19.7 ± 7.3 days in control animals (p ≤ 0.05). However, no significant differences were observed in the occurrence of first oestrus post‐partum. The involution of the uterus was improved after hormone treatment. At day 42 post‐partum, completion of uterine involution was found in 93.3% of hormone‐treated cows and in 82.5% of those treated with antibiotic only (p ≤ 0.05). Clinical recovery was 96.6% in the experimental and 82.5% in the control group (p ≤ 0.05). First service pregnancy rate was significantly better in hormone‐treated than control cows (51.7 versus 36.4%; p ≤ 0.05). Total pregnancy rate and insemination index values were not significantly improved following GnRH and PGF2α treatment. The average service period was 89.8 ± 21.2 days in cows after hormone treatment, and 112.6 ± 24.5 days in control cows. The difference was statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05). These results indicate, that the sequential GnRH and PGF2α application in cows with puerperal endometritis positively affected ovarian function and uterine involution, resulting in improved fertility performance.
Growth Hormone Receptors in the Porcine Testis During Prepuberty
Authors: N'Diaye MR , Sun SS , Fanua SP , Loseth KJ , Shaw Wilgis EF , Crabo BG
Published: March 2003

Contents

Supplementation of exogenous growth hormone (GH) during prepuberty advances onset of spermatogenesis in boars, but the mechanism of action is unknown. The present study is an investigation of the presence and characteristics of testicular growth hormone receptors (GHR). A total of 36 boars were castrated, three boars every 10 days, between the ages of 10 and 120 days. Testicular membrane preparations of 10, 20, 30, 50, 70, 100 and 120‐day‐old boars were used to determine 125I‐bGH binding and Scatchard analysis. Liver from a 60‐kg barrow was used for comparison. Specific 125I‐bGH binding to testicular membrane preparations occurred in all age groups with the exception of 20‐day‐old boars at levels of 30–40% of liver binding. At 30 days of age the unlabelled bGH at 1.1 ng/tube achieved half maximal inhibition (ID50). Results of Scatchard analysis indicated a single class of binding sites. Binding affinity was 2.89 × 109m with a binding capacity of 12 fmole/mg membrane protein. The results from this study suggest that GH may act directly on the cells of the prepubertal boar testis.