bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and characterization of functional mammary gland stem cells
Authors: Welm Bryan , Behbod Fariba , Goodell Margaret A. , Rosen J. M.
Published: October 2003

Abstract.  Significant advances in the stem‐cell biology of several tissues, including the mammary gland, have occurred over the past several years. Recent progress on stem‐cell fate determination, molecular markers, signalling pathways and niche interactions in haematopoietic, neuronal and muscle tissue may provide parallel insight into the biology of mammary epithelial stem cells. Taking advantage of approaches similar to those employed to isolate and characterize haematopoietic and epidermal stem cells, we have identified a mammary epithelial cell population with several stem/progenitor cell qualities. In this article, we review some recent data on mammary epithelial stem/progenitor cells in genetically engineered mouse models. We also discuss several potential molecular markers, including stem‐cell antigen‐1 (Sca‐1), which may be useful for both the isolation of functional mammary epithelial stem/progenitor cells and the analysis of tumour aetiology and phenotype in genetically engineered mouse models. In different transgenic mammary tumour models, Sca‐1 expression levels, as well as several other putative markers of progenitors including keratin‐6, possess dramatically altered expression profiles. These data suggest that the heterogeneity of mouse models of breast cancer may partially reflect the selection or expansion of different progenitors.
Rhinitis in pre‐school children: prevalence, association with allergic diseases and risk factors
Authors: Peroni D. G. , Piacentini G. L. , Alfonsi L. , Zerman L. , Di Blasi P. , Visona' G. , Nottegar F. , Boner A. L.
Published: October 2003

Background
The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of rhinitis, sneezing, runny or blocked nose apart from colds in a pre‐school children population and to evaluate the risk factors and relationship with allergic diseases and sensitization.

Methods
Eighteen nursery schools were randomly selected. The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) written questionnaire (WQ) was distributed and filled by parents of pre‐school children (3–5 years). The allergic sensitization to common aeroallergens and foods was evaluated by skin prick test (SPT). χ2 tests were used to compare proportions between rhinitic and non‐rhinitic children.

Results
One thousand four hundred and two (92%) valuable questionnaires were returned. Prevalence of rhinitis in the last 12 months was 16.8%. Rhinitic children compared to non‐rhinitic children presented a significant increase of diagnosed asthma (20.8% vs. 6.2%, P<0.001), lifetime wheezing (43.2% vs. 21.6%, P<0.001), wheezing in the last 12 months (25.0% vs. 9.4%, P<0.001), atopic dermatitis (22.9% vs. 13.9%, P<0.001) and allergic sensitization (29.9% vs. 13.7%, P<0.001). Sensitization to grass pollen and house dust mites were significant risk factors for rhinitis (P<0.01). A family history of atopy, having pets at home, male gender and greater age were significant risk factors for rhinitis, but not smoking exposure, sharing a bedroom or breastfeeding.

Conclusions
In pre‐school children rhinitis has a strong association with wheezing symptoms, asthma and atopic dermatitis. Allergic sensitization is a risk factor for rhinitis and should be evaluated even in pre‐school children.
Intake of unsaturated fatty acids and HDL cholesterol levels are associated with manifestations of atopy in adults
Authors: Schäfer T. , Ruhdorfer S. , Weigl L. , Wessner D. , Heinrich J. , Döring A. , Wichmann H.‐E. , Ring J.
Published: October 2003

Background
The increase in allergic diseases is still unexplained. It was hypothesized that the intake of unsaturated fatty acids is a contributing cause of this development. We investigated the relationship between serum cholesterol levels, intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and manifestations of atopy in a population‐based setting.

Methods
A nested case–control study was performed within the population of the 3rd MONICA survey in Augsburg (Germany). The serum levels of total, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol of 1537 adults (aged 28–78 years, response 61.4%) and the estimated intake of PUFA in a subset of 139 men were compared with the frequency of a doctor's diagnosis of asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (AR), atopic eczema (AE) and allergic sensitization as measured by skin prick and Radio Allergo Sorbent Test.

Findings
In bivariate analyses, we obtained a negative linear association between total and LDL cholesterol levels and the frequency of AR and sensitization, which was no longer significant after adjustment for important confounders. In contrast, positive linear associations were found between HDL cholesterol levels and AR and AE and, furthermore, between the intake of PUFA and allergic sensitization in men (P<0.01). After adjustment, an increasing risk for atopic diseases with increasing levels of HDL cholesterol and an increasing risk for allergic sensitization with increasing intakes of PUFA remained statistically significant.

Interpretation
There is indication that HDL cholesterol also plays a role in the complex interaction of fat intake, metabolism and the manifestation of atopy in adults. These findings may contribute to the understanding of time trends and regional differences of allergies.
Changes in body composition in men and women with advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) undergoing chemotherapy
Authors: Harvie M. N. , Campbell I. T. , Thatcher N. , Baildam A.
Published: October 2003

Background  Men with nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are more susceptible to weight loss than women. The composition and aetiology of these gender specific weight changes are not known.

Methods  Measurements of body mass, body composition and energy balance (resting energy expenditure and energy intake) were made in 15 men and six women before and after chemotherapy for NSCLC.

Results  Over the course of chemotherapy minimal weight change was observed in both men and women. Men increased body fat from 25.0 ± 5.5 to 27.9 ± 7.9% (P < 0.05) whereas fat free mass (FFM) tended to decrease (P = 0.063). There was no change in body fat or FFM in the women. In the men resting energy expenditure decreased over the course of chemotherapy from 113.2 ± 15.9 to 105.1 ± 10.1% of the value predicted from the Harris Benedict equation (P < 0.05). In the women resting energy expenditure (REE) did not alter.

Conclusion  Over the course of chemotherapy for NSCLC, men and women appear to have different patterns of change in body composition and in energy expenditure.
Disparities in food habits in Europe: systematic review of educational and occupational differences in the intake of fat
Authors: López‐Azpiazu I. , Sánchez‐Villegas A. , Johansson L. , Petkeviciene J. , Prättälä R. , Martínez‐González M. A. ,   for the FAIR‐97‐3096 Project
Published: October 2003

Background A higher socio‐economic level is associated with healthier dietary habits. Nevertheless, socio‐economic differences in the intake of fat have not consistently been reported in Europe. The objective of our study was to systematically assess differences in total fat (TF) intake and saturated fat (SF) intake across social groups.

Methods Representative samples from nine European countries were used to perform a meta‐analysis of surveys between 1985–1999, including both published and nonpublished results.

Results Because important heterogeneity was found and the estimates for TF from Spain and Estonia were different from all others, we calculated the differences in intake excluding these two countries. We found a lower TF intake in the highest (versus the lowest) occupational level both for men (difference: −1.1% of total energy intake; 95% CI: −1.3 to −0.8%) and women (difference: −0.9%; 95% CI: −1.2 to −0.6%) when Estonia and Spain were excluded.

Conclusion European surveys indicate that people in the lowest category of occupation consume more fat and SF than people in the highest category.
Palliative management of cancer of the oesophagus – opportunities for dietetic intervention
Authors: Holdoway A. , Stacey B. , Davis M.
Published: October 2003

Introduction: Cancer of the oesophagus develops insidiously and when patients present with symptoms such as dysphagia to solids/semi‐solids and in some cases liquids, the disease is often advanced and patients are frequently poorly nourished and cachectic (Angorn, 1981; Larrea, 1992). In our own unit we were aware that patients were only referred to the dietitian once an oesophageal stent was inserted or radiotherapy commenced, thereby possibly missing opportunities to treat or prevent malnutrition earlier. We therefore evaluated the nutritional status and care pathways of patients diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus in whom palliative treatment was the only option, with the aim of assessing the extent of malnutrition and identifying opportunities for earlier dietetic intervention to prevent or slow the development of malnutrition.

Method: Data were collated on all patients referred to the hospital's dysphagia clinic and diagnosed with inoperable cancer of the oesophagus. Height, weight, body mass index, degree of dysphagia, period of dysphagia, percentage weight loss (data collected as standard practice in the dysphagia clinic) and time to stent insertion/radiotherapy and survival time was collected from the medical notes.

Results: Data were available on 58 patients, 33 male, 25 female, mean age 75 years (range 49–92 years). The mean length of survival was 10.2 months (0–24 months). At diagnosis, 47% experienced dysphagia with solids, 33% with semi‐solids and 16% experienced a degree of dysphagia with liquids. The period of dysphagia was 1 month to 2 years. Eighty‐three per cent of patients had lost weight at diagnosis. Mean percentage weight loss per individual was 13% (range 0–45%). Thirty‐five per cent had a BMI <20 kg/m2. Median time from diagnosis to radiotherapy (n = 8) was 2 months with range, 1–6 months. Median time from diagnosis to the placement of the oesophageal stent (n = 12) was 1 month with range, 0–7 months.

Discussion: These data illustrate that malnutrition remains a significant problem in this patient group. These results demonstrate that dysphagia and malnutrition, as indicated by weight loss, is developing in the community before diagnosis. Opportunities for earlier dietetic intervention exist between diagnosis and date at which other treatments commence, i.e. stent insertion. Further opportunities exist to educate community health professionals on treating and preventing malnutrition when dysphagia presents. Survival times support the need for dietetic follow‐up. In our unit the results of this audit helped to improve care pathways for patients with cancer of the oesophagus. In response to the above findings, a nutritional screening tool is now completed by a nurse specialist at the first clinic attended. This has enabled appropriate and timely advice to be given on modified texture and fortification of food to optimize nutritional intake at diagnosis.
Palliation in cancer of the oesophagus – what passes down an oesophageal stent?
Authors: Holdoway A. , Davis M.
Published: October 2003

Introduction: Self‐expanding metal stents are becoming an increasingly popular method of palliation of dysphagia in advanced oesophageal carcinoma. Approximately 10% require intervention post‐placement because of blockage (Angorn, 1981). This could be prevented by effective dietary advice. We set out to write evidence‐based dietary guidelines for patients undergoing oesophageal stent insertion. A comprehensive literature search failed to identify evidence to support the present guidelines used by manufacturers and dietitians on foods allowed or to avoid and the use of fizzy drinks to ‘clean’ the stent. Only reference on the ability to consume a semi‐solid or solid diet was made (Nedin, 2002). We therefore tested the ability of 50 foods to pass through a stent and the efficacy of fizzy water in unblocking an occluded stent.

Method: Normal mouthfuls of raw and cooked, peeled/unpeeled fruit and vegetables, casseroles, griddle or grilled plain meat, poultry or fish, eggs, nuts, dried fruit and bread in various forms were tested. An adult female chewed a ‘normal’ mouthful of each test food and at the point of swallowing the bolus of food was passed into an expanded Ultraflex metal covered stent (internal diameter 18 mm). If occlusion occurred, water was dribbled through the stent, simulating swallowing fluid, in an attempt to unblock the stent. If the occlusion remained, the stent was agitated to mimic advice given about moving around to unblock a stent in a patient. If it remained occluded, a smaller amount of food, approximately half a mouthful, was chewed for twice as long and re‐tested. To test the efficacy of fizzy water to clear an occlusion, we compared the ability of water, warm water and fizzy water to unblock a stent artificially occluded with a bolus of bread.

Results: Foods that occluded the stent but passed through if eaten in half mouthfuls and chewed for twice normal chewing time included sandwiches, dry toast, apple, tinned pineapple, fresh orange segments with pith removed, up to six sultanas, chopped dried apricot, boiled egg, muesli, meat and poultry. Dry meat, fruit with pith, skins of capsicum peppers and tomatoes, more than seven sultanas and dried apricots caused occlusion. Nuts and vegetables such as lettuce, which are cited in many diet sheets as items to avoid (Nedin, 2002), passed through the stent when chewed to a normal level. The volumes of fluid required to unblock a stent occluded with bread were 5 l of fizzy water, 3.5 l of cold water or 1 l of warm water.

Conclusion: If a patient has good dentition and can chew well and take small mouthfuls and prepare and cook food appropriately, it is likely that they can enjoy a wide variety of solid foods. The use of fizzy drinks to maintain the patency of the stent in patients prone to reflux is questionable, warm fluids may be more efficacious. Based on these initial findings we are updating our dietary guidelines for patients undergoing oesophageal stent insertion and hope to audit stent occlusion following implementation.
Sweet's syndrome revisited: a review of disease concepts
Authors: Cohen Philip R. , Kurzrock Razelle
Published: October 2003

Sweet's syndrome, also referred to as acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis, is characterized by a constellation of symptoms and findings: fever, neutrophilia, erythematous and tender skin lesions that typically show an upper dermal infiltrate of mature neutrophils, and prompt improvement of both symptoms and lesions after the initiation of treatment with systemic corticosteroids. Hundreds of patients with this dermatosis have been reported. The manifestations of Sweet's syndrome in these individuals have not only confirmed those originally described by Dr Robert Douglas Sweet in 1964, but have also introduced new features that have expanded the clinical and pathologic concepts of this condition. The history, clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, associated diseases, pathology, and treatment options of Sweet's syndrome are reviewed. The evolving and new concepts of this dermatosis that are discussed include: (i) Sweet's syndrome occurring in the clinical setting of a disease‐related malignancy, or medication, or both; (ii) detection of additional sites of extracutaneous Sweet's syndrome manifestations; (iii) discovery of additional Sweet's syndrome‐associated diseases; (iv) variability of the composition and/or location of the cutaneous inflammatory infiltrate in Sweet's syndrome lesions; and (v) additional efficacious treatments for Sweet's syndrome.
Redox properties of cytochrome P450BM3 measured by direct methods
Authors: Fleming Barry D. , Tian Yanni , Bell Stephen G. , Wong Luet‐Lok , Urlacher Vlada , Hill H. Allen O.
Published: October 2003

Cytochrome P450BM3 is a self‐sufficient fatty acid monooxygenase consisting of a diflavin (FAD/FMN) reductase domain and a heme domain fused together in a single polypeptide chain. The multidomain structure makes it an ideal model system for studying the mechanism of electron transfer and for understanding P450 systems in general. Here we report the redox properties of the cytochrome P450BM3 wild‐type holoenzyme, and its isolated FAD reductase and P450 heme domains, when immobilized in a didodecyldimethylammonium bromide film cast on an edge‐plane graphite electrode. The holoenzyme showed cyclic voltammetric peaks originating from both the flavin reductase domain and the FeIII/FeII redox couple contained in the heme domain, with formal potentials of −0.388 and −0.250 V with respect to a saturated calomel electrode, respectively. When measured in buffer solutions containing the holoenzyme or FAD‐reductase domain, the reductase response could be maintained for several hours as a result of protein reorganization and refreshing at the didodecyldimethylammonium modified surface. When measured in buffer solution alone, the cyclic voltammetric peaks from the reductase domain rapidly diminished in favour of the heme response. Electron transfer from the electrode to the heme was measured directly and at a similarly fast rate (ks′ = 221 s−1) to natural biological rates. The redox potential of the FeIII/FeII couple increased when carbon monoxide was bound to the reduced heme, but when in the presence of substrate(s) no shift in potential was observed. The reduced heme rapidly catalysed the reduction of oxygen to hydrogen peroxide.
Display response of the Jacky Dragon, Amphibolurus muricatus (Lacertilia: Agamidae), to intruders: A semi‐Markovian process
Authors: PETERS RICHARD A. , ORD TERRY J.
Published: October 2003

Abstract Movement‐based visual signals are widely distributed among animal species. They are used in a variety of contexts including mate‐choice, pursuit deterrence, alarm signalling and opponent assessment. Important contributions to general theories of animal communication have been made using lizards as model systems. However, much of this work has focused on the iguanids of North and South America. The agamid lizards of Australia have received little attention even though many species are characterized by complex visual displays. Here we present a detailed description of the push‐up display of the Jacky Dragon (Amphibolurus muricatus), which comprises five distinct components, including tail‐flicks, foreleg waves, and push‐ups. Rival males exchange displays when competing for territory, but little is known about the rules that govern their expression. We set up simulated intrusions in a captive setting to overcome the inherent difficulty in observing these interactions in the field. An ‘intruder’ housed in a small tank was positioned in front of a larger enclosure containing a ‘resident’ male. The response of the resident was video‐taped for subsequent analysis. We first examined characteristics of the initial display bout and explored sources of variation within and between residents. Measurements included bout duration, the number and hold duration of push‐ups, the total number of components, and limb preferences during foreleg waves. Markov analysis was then used to measure serial dependencies among display components. This showed that the push‐up display is a semi‐Markovian process: the preceding component predicted the next one with high accuracy. The display is highly constrained irrespective of whether the bout was the first or subsequent response to an intruder, and irrespective of substrate, intruder identity and resident identity. These data are an important first step in understanding the design, perception and function of movement‐based visual signals in agamid lizards.
Vegetation indicators of salinity in northern Queensland
Authors: BUI E. N. , HENDERSON B. L.
Published: October 2003

Abstract The possibility that plants could serve as indicators of underlying soil salinity in northern Queensland, Australia, was investigated using 2197 site observations recorded during a land resources inventory of the Dalrymple Shire. The area surveyed intersects three biogeographical regions: the desert uplands, the Einasleigh uplands and the northern brigalow belt. The three dominant plant species in the lower, middle, and upper vegetation strata were recorded, along with laboratory measurements of electrical conductivity down each soil profile. Correspondence analysis, generalized additive models and clustering were used to investigate the relationship between plant occurrence, climatic and edaphic factors. The results of these statistical analyses strongly suggest a relationship between salinity and brigalow plant communities. A generalized additive model to predict soil salinity from environmental variables including vegetation data is presented.
Is the Fascicle of Left Bundle Branch Involved in the Reentrant Circuit of Verapamil‐Sensitive Idiopathic Left Ventricular Tachycardia?
Authors: KUO JEN‐YUAN , TAI CHING‐TAI , CHIANG CHERN‐EN , YU WEN‐CHUNG , HUANG JIN‐LONG , HSIEH MING‐HSIUNG , JIA‐YIN HOU CHARLES , TSAI CHENG‐HO , DING YU‐AN , CHEN SHIH‐ANN
Published: October 2003

The exact reentrant circuit of the verapamil‐sensitive idiopathic left VT with a RBBB configuration remains unclear. Furthermore, if the fascicle of left bundle branch is involved in the reentrant circuit has not been well studied. Forty‐nine patients with verapamil‐sensitive idiopathic left VT underwent electrophysiological study and RF catheter ablation. Group I included 11 patients (10 men, 1 woman; mean age 25 ± 8 years) with left anterior fascicular block (4 patients), or left posterior fascicular block (7 patients) during sinus rhythm. Group II included 38 patients (29 men, 9 women; mean age 35 ± 16 years) without fascicular block during sinus rhythm. Duration of QRS complex during sinus rhythm before RF catheter ablation in group I patients was significant longer than that of group II patients (104 ± 12 vs 95 ± 11 ms, respectively, P = 0.02). Duration of QRS complex during VT was similar between group I and group II patients (141 ± 13 vs 140 ± 14 ms, respectively, P = 0.78). Transitional zones of QRS complexes in the precordial leads during VT were similar between group I and group II patients. After ablation, the QRS duration did not prolong in group I or group II patients (104 ± 11 vs 95 ± 10 ms, P = 0.02); fascicular block did not occur in group II patients. Duration and transitional zone of QRS complex during VT were similar between the two groups, and new fascicular block did not occur after ablation. These findings suggest the fascicle of left bundle branch may be not involved in the antegrade limb of reentry circuit in idiopathic left VT. (PACE 2003; 26:1986–1992)
Fission in Convolutriloba longifissura: asexual reproduction in acoelous turbellarians revisited
Authors: Åkesson Bertil , Gschwentner Robert , Hendelberg Jan , Ladurner Peter , Müller Johann , Rieger Reinhard
Published: October 2003

Studies of the asexual reproduction of Convolutriloba longifissura (Acoela, Acoelomorpha) revealed that there is no longitudinal fission of the whole animal as has been described by Bartolomaeus and Balzer (1997). Instead, the first step is a transverse fission. This results in the detachment of the caudal fourth of the mother animal. The detached part forms what we call the butterfly stage, which initially has no mouth and no eye fields. This stage gives rise to two new individuals by a longitudinal fission. Within 2–3 days the eye fields and a mouth develop in each of the two progenies formed in this way. In the meantime the mother individual grows and develops the three typical caudal lobes. The mother animal can repeat this process resulting in three individuals every fourth day. The finding of this new pattern of reproduction in the Acoela has prompted us to review the various ways by which asexual reproduction occurs in the group. The peculiar combination of few cases but high diversity of asexual reproduction in the Acoela is discussed from an evolutionary point of view.
Is ‘nocturnal hypothermia’ a valid physiological concept in small birds?: a study on Bronze MannikinsSpermestes cucullatus
Authors: Lovegrove Barry G. , Smith Gary A.
Published: October 2003

The thermoregulatory capacity and metabolic responses to light–dark cycles under various mild food‐deprivation treatments were measured in Bronze MannikinsSpermestes cucullatus(10–11 g). We measured the response of minimum oxygen consumption to ambient temperature in order to determine the basal metabolic rate (BMR), thermal conductance and limits of thermoneutrality of the Mannikins. In addition, we measured oxygen consumption in response to light–dark cycles and three mild food‐deprivation treatments. Bronze Mannikins have a low BMR (1.67 mlO2/g/h) that isc.50–60% of that predicted from phylogenetically independent allometric curves for all birds. A low BMR resulted in amplitudes of metabolism between the active and rest phases that were double those predicted allometrically from body mass. The reduced nocturnal metabolic rate did not represent torpor. Typically, Mannikins would need to reduce their metabolic rate during the rest phase toc.17% of BMR to attain the average torpor metabolic rate of other birds. The data are, however, consistent with those of other group‐living Afrotropical birds that benefit energetically from group huddling in environments in which moderate seasonality is accompanied by unpredictable climates – and thus unpredictable energy inputs in time and space. When food‐deprived and placed under moderate cold stress (20 °C), Mannikins decreased their rest‐phase metabolic rates to the same magnitude as several small Holarctic birds. We suggest that, in the context of the progress made to quantify and define proximate heterothermic responses in endotherms, such as torpor and hibernation, the term nocturnal hypothermia often applied to moderate nocturnal reductions in metabolic rate is vague, misleading and inappropriate.
Interannual variation in the diets of two albatross species breeding at South Georgia: implications for breeding performance
Authors: Xavier J. C. , Croxall J. P. , Reid K.
Published: October 2003

The diet and breeding performance of Grey‐headed Albatrosses Thalassarche chrysostoma and Black‐browed Albatrosses Diomedea melanophris breeding at Bird Island, South Georgia, were studied simultaneously during the chick‐rearing period between 1996 and 2000. When samples for all years were combined, cephalopods and crustaceans were the main components in the diet of Grey‐headed and Black‐browed Albatrosses, respectively. However, their diets exhibited interannual variations. Cephalopods were the most important component in the diet of Grey‐headed Albatrosses between 1996 and 1999 (60–75% by mass) but decreased significantly in 2000 (17%), when crustaceans dominated (61%). The Black‐browed Albatross diet varied greatly, with cephalopods being the most important component in 1996 (49% by mass) and 1997 (48%), fish in 1998 (32%) and 1999 (40%), and crustaceans in 2000 (63%). In 1998 and 2000 there was a significant change in the cephalopod species present in the diet of both albatross species, when their breeding success was low. The consumption of the ommastrephid Martialia hyadesi was significantly and positively correlated with Grey‐headed Albatross breeding success. For Black‐browed Albatrosses significant correlations were found between its consumption of the Icefish Champsocephalus gunnari and breeding success, and between its consumption of M. hyadesi and M. hyadesi CPUE (Catch per Unit Effort). These findings suggest that Grey‐headed Albatrosses are more reliant on Antarctic Polar Frontal Zone prey (M. hyadesi and Lamprey Geotria australis) whereas Black‐browed Albatrosses are more dependent on Antarctic prey (Icefish and Antarctic Krill Euphausia superba). The differences between diets of Grey‐headed and Black‐browed Albatrosses breeding on different islands of the Southern Ocean showed that Grey‐headed Albatrosses feed more on oceanic cephalopods (e.g. M. hyadesi) whereas Black‐browed Albatrosses feed primarily on shelf fish (e.g. Blue Whiting Micromesistius australis), suggesting that albatross diets are likely to be influenced by the geographical position of those islands, albatross foraging preference and prey availability.
Induction of volatile emissions from ripening apple fruits infested with Cydia pomonella and the attraction of adult females
Authors: Hern Alan , Dorn Silvia
Published: October 2003

We studied the effect of herbivory by Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) first instar larvae on the volatile emissions from immature apples collected at the end of August. Volatiles from infested, artificially damaged, and healthy fruit were collected using solid‐phase microextraction and analysed using combined gas chromatography mass spectrometry. The results show that neonate C. pomonella larvae induce the release of E‐β‐ocimene from immature fruit compared to healthy or artificially damaged fruit. Seven further compounds, a terpene, an alcohol, four aldehydes, and a ketone, were consistently found in all treatments. There were no significant differences amongst these latter compounds, although the amount of the terpene E,E‐α‐farnesene was three to five times higher from the infested as compared to healthy fruits. Headspace volatiles were also collected on Tenax to test for behavioural responses to the volatiles. Volatile collections from infested fruit attracted mated adult females in a Y‐tube olfactometer, whereas no preference was evinced for volatiles from healthy or artificially damaged fruits when compared to a solvent control.
Liriomyza huidobrensis in Yunnan, China: current distribution and genetic structure of a recently established population
Authors: He Liping , Zhang Yaping , Xiao Ningnian , Wei Jianing , Kuang Rongping
Published: October 2003

Liriomyza huidobrensis Blanchard (Diptera: Agromyzidae) is a very serious and economically important pest around the world. Liriomyza huidobrensis in China was first reported from Kunming of Yunnan province in 1993. We report here that this pest has recently expanded its distribution, along with a host plant range extension and population explosion. The mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase II gene was sequenced for eight populations from Yunnan. All individuals were identical: no genetic variation was observed between populations either from different geographical localities or from different host plants. The phylogenetic analysis shows that the Yunnan population is grouped into the South American clade, which also includes other recently introduced Asian populations. Together with ecological data and colonization history of this pest, our results suggest that Yunnan population might have an ultimate, albeit not immediate, origin from South American populations.
Preference and performance of the sawfly Diprion pini on host and non‐host plants of the genus Pinus
Authors: Barre Florence , Milsant Frédéric , Palasse Cécile , Prigent Véronique , Goussard Francis , Géri Claude
Published: October 2003

The sawfly, Diprion pini L., is a pest of Pinus in Europe and is mainly found on P. sylvestris L. and P. nigra laricio Poiret. The relative importance of female oviposition capacity and behaviour, egg development, and larval survival on a new host plant was measured on 11 pine species. Five were natural host plants and six non‐host plants, five of which are not indigenous to Europe. Oviposition choice tests showed that females discriminated between the pine species. Egg and larval development also differed between pine species. However, the female choice was not linked with hatching rate and larval development. Results of biological tests clearly indicated that there were different response patterns of D. pini life stages in relation to pine species, and these patterns were the same with insects of four different origins. We discuss the importance of each potential barrier to colonisation of a new host.
Life table and biological characteristics of Macrolophus pygmaeus when feeding on Myzus persicae and Trialeurodes vaporariorum
Authors: Perdikis Dionyssios Ch. , Lykouressis Dionyssios P.
Published: October 2003

The life table and biological characteristics of the predatory bug Macrolophus pygmaeus Rambur (Hemiptera: Miridae) were studied when the bugs were fed with Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Homoptera: Aphididae) feeding on eggplant and with Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae) feeding on tomato plants. The tests were done at five temperatures between 15 and 30 °C, using a L16:D8 photoperiod and 65 ± 5% r.h. Most eggs (range 85 to 90%) hatched at 15 and 20 °C. Incubation period was shortest at 27.5 °C (8.45 and 8.38 days on eggplant and tomato, respectively). Preoviposition was also shortest at 27.5 °C (5.10 and 4.75 days on eggplant and tomato, respectively) whereas fecundity was highest at 20 °C (213.90 and 228.25 eggs on eggplant and tomato, respectively). Maximum longevity of females was at 15 °C (122.40 and 129.35 days on eggplant and tomato, respectively). Mean generation time was longest at 15 °C on both host plants (122.75 and 124.64 days, respectively). The intrinsic rate of increase of M. pygmaeus was highest at 27.5 °C with similar values on eggplant (0.0981 day−1) and tomato (0.1040 day−1). Doubling time was shortest at 27.5 °C (7.06 and 6.67 days on eggplant and tomato, respectively) and, also, finite rate of increase was highest at 27.5 °C (1.1031 and 1.1096 on eggplant and tomato, respectively). The results show that the predator M. pygmaeus develops well on the aphid M. persicae or on the whitefly T. vaporariorum, both of which are important pests of vegetable crops. This predator is also well adapted to the temperatures that occur both in greenhouses and in the open field in the Mediterranean region. Compared to other natural enemies of whiteflies, such as Encarsia formosa Gahan (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), Macrolophus pygmaeus can increase at relatively low temperatures.
Moving on hairy surfaces: modifications of Gratiana spadicea larval legs to attach on its host plant Solanum sisymbriifolium
Authors: Medeiros Lenice , Moreira Gilson R.P.
Published: October 2003

Both larvae and adults of Gratiana spadicea (Klug) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae) feed exclusively on leaves of Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae), which have simple and stellate trichomes. The simple trichomes can be non‐glandular or glandular. The stellate trichomes present a long central ray that secretes a viscous exudate when broken. Trichome effects on movement of G. spadicea larvae were evaluated in the laboratory. Larval speed on intact petioles of S. sisymbriifolium was compared to those where the exudates and/or stellate trichomes were removed. Exudates had no effect on larval speed. Stellate trichomes mechanically slowed down first instar movement. Gratiana spadicea larval legs have a modified distal portion, the tarsungulus, whose rounded aperture shape matches that of the cylindrical pointed rays of S. sisymbriifolium stellate trichomes. The first three instars anchor the tarsungulus to the trichome rays, and get both attachment to the leaf surface and support to body impulsion. Morphological comparisons showed that the legs in the first larval instars are shorter than the central ray of the stellate trichome, so larvae have to walk above them. Fifth instar larvae have longer legs and walk by inserting the sharp tip of their tarsungulus directly into the leaf epidermis. The dimensions of the tarsungulus aperture vary in such a way that it can clasp every thickness of trichome ray for any larval instar. Contrary to other tarsungulus portions and larval body features, where growth is allometric, growth of the tarsungulus aperture is isometric throughout the larval stage. Thus, it is suggested that this G. spadicea leg structure is adapted for moving on hairy leaf surface of S. sisymbriifolium.
Flavonoids from cabbage are feeding stimulants for diamondback moth larvae additional to glucosinolates: Chemoreception and behaviour
Authors: van Loon Joop J.A. , Wang Chen Zhu , Nielsen Jens Kvist , Gols Rieta , Qiu Yu Tong
Published: October 2003

In caterpillars two styloconic contact chemoreceptors on the maxillary galea are assumed to contain the main taste receptors involved in host plant selection. The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella L. is a specialist feeder of plants in the Brassicaceae, a plant family characterized by the biosynthesis of glucosinolates. We used pea (Pisum sativum L., Leguminosae) as a neutral non‐host for a dual‐choice leaf disc assay to quantify feeding stimulation by glucosinolates and flavonoids. Increasing concentrations of sinigrin resulted in significant preferences for sinigrin‐treated leaf discs, with a threshold between 1 and 3 μM. Millimolar concentrations of four of the five flavonol triglucosides likewise elicited a significant preference for flavonoid‐treated leaf discs. A mixture of four flavonoids and sinigrin was significantly preferred over sinigrin‐treated leaf discs alone. Vigorous unicellular electrophysiological responses of medial maxillary styloconic taste sensilla were observed in response to five glucosinolates (glucocapparin, sinigrin, glucobrassicin, glucoiberin, and gluconasturtiin). This medial taste neuron responded in a dose‐dependent manner to a concentration series of sinigrin, with a threshold of response of ca. 1 μM. The lateral sensillum styloconicum contained a neuron sensitive to sucrose, glucose, and fructose. However, no responses in the two types of maxillary styloconic sensilla to the phagostimulatory flavonoids could be detected, suggesting that other taste organs mediate chemoreception of flavonoids. We conclude that diamondback moth larvae employ a combination of biosynthetically distinct categories of feeding stimulants which allows for a higher degree of discriminatory ability than when this would be based on glucosinolates alone.
Maintenance of narrow diet breadth in the monarch butterfly caterpillar: response to various plant species and chemicals
Authors: Vickerman Danel B. , de Boer Gerrit
Published: October 2003

In order to better understand the maintenance of a fairly narrow diet breadth in monarch butterfly larvae, Danaus plexippus L. (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae: Danainae), we measured feeding preference and survival on host and non‐host plant species, and sensitivity to host and non‐host plant chemicals. For the plant species tested, a hierarchy of feeding preferences was observed; only plants from the Asclepiadaceae were more or equally preferred to Asclepias curassavica, the common control. The feeding preferences among plant species within the Asclepiadaceae are similar to published mean cardenolide concentrations. However, since cardenolide data were not collected from individual plants tested, definitive conclusions regarding cardenolide concentrations and plant acceptability cannot be made. Although several non‐Asclepiadaceae were eaten in small quantities, all were less preferred to A. curassavica. Additionally, these non‐Asclepiadaceae do not support continued feeding, development, and survival of first and fifth‐instar larvae. Preference for a host versus a non‐host (A. curassavica versus Vinca rosea) increased for A. curassavica reared larvae as compared to diet‐reared larvae suggesting plasticity in larval food preferences. Furthermore, host species were significantly preferred over non‐host plant species in bioassays using a host plant or sucrose as a common control. Larval responses to pure chemicals were examined in order to determine if host and non‐host chemicals stimulate or deter feeding in monarch larvae. We found that larvae were stimulated to feed by some ubiquitous plant chemicals, such as sucrose, inositol, and rutin. In contrast, several non‐host plant chemicals deterred feeding: caffeine, apocynin, gossypol, tomatine, atropine, quercitrin, and sinigrin. Additionally the cardenolides digitoxin and ouabain, which are not in milkweed plants, were neutral in their influence on feeding. Another non‐milkweed cardenolide, cymarin, significantly deterred feeding. Extracts of A. curassavica leaves were tested in bioassays to determine which components of the leaf stimulate feeding. Both an ethanol extract of whole leaves and a hexane leaf‐surface extract are phagostimulatory, suggesting the involvement of both polar and non‐polar plant compounds. These data suggest that the host range of D. plexippus larvae is maintained by both feeding stimulatory and deterrent chemicals in host and non‐host plants.
An improved breeding method for solitarious locusts
Authors: Hoste Bruno , Luyten Lieve , Claeys Ilse , Clynen Elke , Rahman Mazibur M. , De Loof Arnold , Breuer Michael
Published: October 2003

In order to unravel the physiological, endocrine, and behavioral differences between gregarious and solitarious forms of the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria (Forsk.) (Orthoptera, Acrididae), a constant supply of rather large numbers of solitary individuals has to be guaranteed. This represents a bottleneck, mainly because of the intensity of the labor involved and limited laboratory accommodation. The method we describe here substantially reduces the space and manpower needed. The survival rate we obtained in the solitarised population was relatively high, reaching about 55%. The optimal rearing temperature proved to be 32–36 °C. Cabbage leaves and oat flakes sufficed for feeding all year round. Special racks have been designed that enable high density stacking and easy handling. The solitarisation process was monitored over ten consecutive generations. Changes in morphometrics, eye stripes, color, and behavior were recorded, of which only morphometrics, temperature related development, and mortality are discussed. A shift towards the solitarious phase was recorded, with clear differences between gregarious, 1st generation and 7th to 10th generation solitarious locusts.
Impact of the egg parasitoid Uscana lariophaga and the larval‐pupal parasitoid Dinarmus basalis on Callosobruchus maculatus populations and cowpea losses
Authors: van Huis A. , van Alebeek F.A.N. , van Es M. , Sagnia S.B.
Published: October 2003

In West Africa, Uscana lariophaga Steffan (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) and Dinarmus basalis (Rondani) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) parasitize the eggs and larvae, respectively, of Callosobruchus maculatus Fab. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae), an important pest of stored cowpea. The impact of the parasitoids on pest populations was evaluated in clay pots similar to the ones used in traditional storage in Niger. At the beginning of the storage period, cowpeas were infested with one density of C. maculatus and with either one or both of the parasitoid species. If the parasitoids we inoculated as single species in stores, both D. basalis and U. lariophaga significantly suppressed the bruchid population, but the former did so more effectively than the latter. A combination of D. basalis and U. lariophaga resulted in the same suppression of bruchid populations as when D. basalis was the only parasitoid. Fifteen weeks after storage, the parasitoids reduced the number of grains damaged significantly by 38–56%. The effect of inoculating single or multiple parasitoid species on C. maculatus populations in an augmentation strategy is discussed.
Behavioural differences between Aphidius ervi populations from two tritrophic systems are due to phenotypic plasticity
Authors: Daza‐Bustamante P. , Fuentes‐Contreras E. , Rodríguez L.C. , Figueroa C.C. , Niemeyer H.M.
Published: October 2003

The Palaeoarctic parasitoid Aphidius ervi Haliday (Hymenoptera, Aphidiidae) parasitises legume aphids in its region of origin. In Chile, it parasitises both legume and cereal aphids. This special situation was studied at two levels: (i) the host searching behaviour of A. ervi from two different tritrophic systems (Acyrthosiphon pisum on alfalfa and Sitobion avenae on wheat) was investigated in dual choice tests in a wind tunnel between odours from both A. pisum‐alfalfa host plant complex (HPC) and S. avenae‐wheat HPC, and (ii) the genetic structure of A. ervi populations from both sources using molecular markers. Responses of A. ervi females to volatile olfactory cues emanating from A. pisum‐alfalfa HPC and S. avenae‐wheat HPC were significantly higher towards the HPC on which they were reared during the last generation before experimentation, regardless of the origin of the parasitoid. As previously described for this parasitoid species, oviposition experience was also of major relevance in the preferences of female parasitoids. On the other hand, variation in mitochondrial DNA segments and RAPD‐PCR polymorphism using total DNA showed the absence of host‐based population structure and a high genetic homogeneity between these A. ervi populations. These results reject the possible existence of different host‐strains of this parasitoid in Chile.
The role of non-flying animals in the pollination of Banksia nutans
Authors: Wooller R. D. , Wooller S. J.
Published: October 2003

Banksia nutans is a common, 1 m high, bushy shrub that flowers over summer in the sandplain heathlands on the southern coast of Western Australia. It appears to be principally pollinated by the honey possum, Tarsipes rostratus. This tiny (7–10 g) marsupial is the most abundant and widespread mammal in one large heathland where 97% of honey possums trapped near B. nutans were found to carry its pollen. An experiment was conducted that regulated access to flowers by different groups of pollinators. Exclosures around bushes removed access to flowers by flying animals, but still allowed honey possums to visit the flowers. This treatment resulted in fruit set that was not significantly different from bushes to which all animals had access. Exclusion of animal visitors resulted in significantly lower (albeit substantial) fruit set. This indicates a capacity for self-pollination that may offset the apparent reliance of Banksia nutans on honey possums for pollination.
Photosynthetic light and temperature responses of Eucalyptus cloeziana and Eucalyptus argophloia
Authors: Ngugi Michael R. , Hunt Mark A. , Doley David , Ryan Paul , Dart Peter J.
Published: October 2003

Acclimation of gas exchange to temperature and light was determined in 18-month-old plants of humid coastal (Gympie) and dry inland (Hungry Hills) provenances of Eucalyptus cloeziana F.Muell., and in those of a dry inland provenance of Eucalyptus argophloia Blakely. Plants were acclimated at day/night temperatures of 18/13, 23/18, 28/23 and 33/28�C in controlled-temperature glasshouses for 4 months. Light and temperature response curves were measured at the beginning and end of the acclimation period. There were no significant differences in the shape and quantum-yield parameters among provenances at 23, 28 and 33�C day temperatures. Quantum yield [μmol CO2 μmol–1 photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD)] ranged from 0.04 to 0.06 and the light response shape parameter ranged from 0.53 to 0.78. Similarly, no consistent trends in the rate of dark respiration for plants of each provenance were identified at the four growth temperatures. Average values of dark respiration for the plants of the three provenances ranged from 0.61 to 1.86 μmol m–2 s–1. The optimum temperatures for net photosynthesis increased from 23 to 32�C for the humid- and from 25 to 33�C for the dry-provenance E. cloeziana and from 21 to 33�C for E. argophloia as daytime temperature of the growth environment increased from 18 to 33�C. These results have implications in predicting survival and productivity of E. cloeziana and E. argophloia in areas outside their natural distribution.