bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of B group vitamins and choline chloride on the development and protein synthesis in the male larvae of Pimpla turionellae L. (Hym., Ichneumonidae)
Authors: Sulanç M. , Emre İ.
Published: March 2003

The effects on the development and protein levels in the larvae of male Pimpla turionellae L. of different amounts of B group vitamins namely thiamin, riboflavin, Ca‐pantothenate, nicotinic acid, pyridoxine‐HCl, folic acid and biotin and a growth factor choline chloride in the meridic diet were investigated. Among the vitamins tested, choline chloride and biotin were found to have quantitatively critical values in the diet and increased amounts of nicotinic acid and folic acid individually in the control diet showed positive effects on development and protein levels. A decrease in the levels of Ca‐pantothenate and pridoxine‐HCl caused decreases in protein levels, whereas variations in the levels of thamin and riboflavin did not have any significant effect.
Studies on three species of Trichogramma. I. Foraging behaviour for food or hosts
Authors: Hegazi1 E. M. , Khafagi W. E. , Hassan S. A.
Published: March 2003

The foraging strategies for both food or hosts of three trichogrammatid species: Trichogramma evanescens, Trichogramma cacoecia and Trichogramma dendrolimi were compared using artificial patches of Sitotroga cerealella eggs. In all experiments, inexperienced and newly emerged wasps of < 1 h old were singly tested. When the females were allowed to land upon the hosts, the decision‐making process for initial acceptance or rejection was species‐dependent. The initial search in T. evanescens was for food, whereas T. dendrolimi or T. cacoeciae start to oviposit immediately after their emergence. When honey‐deprived or undeprived females were each exposed to single patches for 20 or 60 min, variations in mean number of probing females ‘drilling and ovipositing’ were also species‐dependent. Acceptance of host eggs by honey‐deprived females and subsequent egg deposition were higher in both T. cacoeciae and T. dendrolimi than in T. evanescens. For all species, the probing of honey‐undeprived females was higher than that of deprived ones. When the exposure period was prolonged to 24 or 48 h and the number of patches per female increased to three, most of the honey‐deprived or undeprived T. evanescens females attacked one patch, and only a few of them attacked two patches. Foraging activity of honey‐deprived females of T. cacoeciae was restricted to single patches, whereas most undeprived ones attacked more than one patch. In contrast, honey‐deprived or undeprived T. dendrolimi females attacked more than one patch. The experiments showed that T. dendrolimi females have more powerful ovipositing urges than looking for food and that the opposite was the case for T. evanescens, with T. cacoeciae being intermediate.
Evaluation of Catolaccus grandis (Burks) (Hym., Pteromalidae) as a biological control agent against cotton boll weevil
Authors: Ramalho F. S. , Medeiros R. S. , Lemos W. P. , Wanderley P. A. , Dias J. M. , Zanuncio J. C.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: An evaluation of augmentative releases carried out at the Agreste site of the state of Paraiba, Brazil, provided significant insight into the ecology and potential impact of Catolaccus grandis (Burks) against the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman in that cotton agroecosystem. The rate of increase in density of C. grandis was higher than the boll weevil. Catolaccus grandis showed ability to effectively search and reproduce within the release environment and revealed pronounced host and habitat preferences. Parasitism by C. grandis was largely confined to third instar weevil larvae, the majority of which (86.9%) occurred in abcised cotton squares. Catolaccus grandis inflicted significant mortality on third instar weevil larvae in the plot resulting in a significant level of suppression. The net effect was a higher boll weevil mortality in the release plot in comparison with the control. The use of augmentative releases of C. grandis has a very high potential for supplementing and enhancing available technology for suppressing boll weevil populations in the Agreste Paraiba.
Functional response of the predators Podisus maculiventris (Say) and Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) (Het., Pentatomidae) to the beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) (Lep., Noctuidae): ef fect of temperature
Authors: Mohaghegh  , De Clercq  , Tirry
Published: March 2003

Predation abilities of Podisus maculiventris and Podisus nigrispinus on caterpillars of the beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner), were compared at three different temperatures (18, 23 and 27°C) by performing functional response tests. In both species, predation capacity was a function of temperature and prey density: more prey were captured as temperature and number of prey offered increased. Results indicated that type II and III functional responses provided the best fit to the data obtained for P. nigrispinus at 18 and 23°C, and at 27°C, respectively. However, the data for P. maculiventris showed a better fit to type II at 18°C and to type III at higher temperatures. In both pentatomids the handling time decreased with increasing temperature. At higher temperatures, P. nigrispinus demonstrated greater predation rates than P. maculiventris. The implications of these findings for the control of caterpillar pests in glasshouses are discussed.
Gypsy moth parasitoids in the declining outbreak in Lithuania
Authors: Zolubas  , Gedminas  , Shields
Published: March 2003

A 3 year study was conducted on the parasitoids of gypsy moth larvae in two reducing outbreak areas in Lithuania. Overall parasitism of 25.0 ± 2.0% in the first post‐culmination year was significantly lower than the 36.3 ± 1.4 and 35.2 ± 1.4% parasitism in the two subsequent years. When analysed in terms of the life stage at which the host was collected, the total parasitism over 3 years was constantly increasing from 3.1 ± 0.8 in the first to 72.5 ± 2.9% in the sixth instar. Parasetigena silvestris R.‐D. dominated causing 48.7 ± 1.5% parasitism and 16.7 ± 0.6% larval mortality preferably in late instars. Phobocampe disparis Vier. contributed to 21.9 ± 1.2% parasitism and 7.5 ± 0.5% mortality recovering from early instar larvae. Meteorus pulchricornis Wes. parasitized 4.3 ± 0.6% gypsy moth larvae causing 1.5 ± 0.2% mortality and a few Apanteles species provided 2.8 ± 0.6% parasitism and 1.0 ± 0.2% mortality. The gypsy moth in Lithuania was reported to act as host for Rogas sp. (Hym., Braconidae) and Siphona boreata Mes. (Dipt., Tachinidae).
Effect of autumn and winter meteorological variables on spring aphid populations in the Po valley, Northern Italy
Authors: Rongai D. , Bellocchi G. , Burzi P.
Published: March 2003

Prediction of aphid populations is crucial to the successful application of control strategies. In previous studies clear relationships between aphid catches and meteorological variables were highlighted. The primary objective of this study was to quantify the effects of autumn and winter meteorological variables on the aphid species populations the following spring. The data on all the species caught at two Italian sites (Ozzano Emilia and Budrio) up to 31 May from 1992 to 1999 were used for this study. Different models were found according to the aphid biological cycle (i.e. holocycle, anholocycle, holo‐anholocycle). A fourth group of minor species, designated as ‘others’, was properly modelled as holo‐anholocycle species. A satisfactory fit was observed when holocycle species were plotted against minimum temperature and precipitation in October, anholocycle species against minimum temperature and precipitation in December–January, holo‐anholocycle species and ‘others’ against wind speed and number of frosty days in November, and minimum temperature and precipitation in December–January. Model response was more consistent at Budrio (open flat site) than at Ozzano Emilia (flat site delimited by a hill). A coherent pattern was found with an overall comparison of the estimates against observations. The possibility offered by these empirical models for forecasting spring aphid populations of all species at a given site is clearly of interest. This first study encouraged further investigation aimed at validating models before applying them in practice.
Controlled simultaneous exposition to single mosquitoes – an alternative experimental design to study mosquito bite reactions
Authors: Kampen H. , Ziefer A. , Bleck R. , Trammer T. , Maier W. A. , Seitz H. M.
Published: March 2003

Until now a standardized method to evoke reproducible, qualitatively comparable, statistically analysable and precisely timed and located mosquito bites for experimental purposes was lacking. We here propose a simple procedure that meets all these requirements. In two studies, single Aedes aegypti and Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes of the same age that had been raised under defined conditions were placed in gauze‐covered test tubes in direct contact to the human skin on predetermined sites. In most instances, the mosquitoes approached the skin in less than one minute, started probing through the gauze and took blood for a few minutes until they were fully engorged. In all cases, we succeeded in performing simultaneous bites of single mosquitoes, two of the same species on the same volunteer. Skin reactions resulting from the mosquito bites were tested within a clinical trial by comparing verum‐treated and placebo‐treated biting sites. In both studies, a reactive efflorescence appeared after each bite. The applied method for single‐bite exposition allows for timing of the bites and predetermination of the biting sites. It is reliable, reproducible to a high degree, and easy to perform.
Electroantennogram responses of Apanteles obliquae (Hym., Braconidae) to various infochemicals
Authors: Jyothi K. N. , Prasuna A. L. , Sighamony S. , Kumari B. Krishna , Prasad A. R. , Yadav J. S.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  The electroantennogram recording technique (EAG) was used to study the olfactory sensitivity of Apanteles obliquae (Hym., Braconidae), a gregarious larval endoparasitoid of Spilosoma obliqua (Walker) (Lep., Arctiidae), to 25 general plant volatiles belonging to alcohol, aldehyde and terpenoid groups and also to volatiles from the host and plant–host complex. The EAG data indicated different olfactory sensitivity between the sexes, not only to individual plant volatiles but also to the volatiles from host and plant–host complex. Females were found to be more responsive than males. However the synthetic sex pheromone blend of the host insect elicited similar EAG responses in both sexes. The EAG data of the present study is correlated with the reported behaviour observed in other parasitoids.
Host preference: parasitism, emergence and development of Trissolcus semistriatus (Hym., Scelonidae) in various host eggs
Authors: Kivan M. , Kilic N.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:
Trissolcus semistriatus is an important egg parasitoid of the sunn bug, Eurygaster integriceps. Conservation and the supportive augmentation of populations of egg parasitoids appears to offer high potential for the biological control of sunn bug in an integrated pest management system. The present study was conducted to determine the host preference of T. semistriatus on various heteropteran host eggs. When each host species was examined separately, the eggs of E. integriceps, Dolycoris baccarum, Graphosoma lineatum, Carpocoris pudicus and Holcostethus vernalis, were parasitized at high levels, namely 88.0, 83.6, 94.8, 87.3 and 80.8%, respectively, whereas a smaller portion of Eurydema ornatum eggs were parasitized (24.0%). There was no parasitism in Nezara viridula eggs by T. semistriatus. Similar high rates were recorded for the percentage of adult emergence in each host species, with the exception of E. ornatum. The average development time was shorter for males than for females. The average development period for both male and female was significantly longer in eggs of E. ornatum than in those of the other host species. These results and observations recorded during the experiments showed that G. lineatum and D. baccarum were available, cheap hosts and it was demonstrated that these hosts could be used for the mass production of egg parasitoids.
Two species of eriophyoid mites (Acari, Prostigmata) in wheat cultivation (Triticum aestivum L.) and associated grass community in Wielkopolska, Poland
Authors: Skoracka A. , Magowski W.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Quantitative characteristics of the occurrence of eriophyoid mites on wheat and associated grasses were studied. Three groups of hosts: cultivated wheat (Triticum aestivum), quackgrass (Agropyron repens) in cultivation, and quackgrass in balks were analysed. Two species of eriophyoid mites were recorded: Aceria tosichella Keifer and Abacarus hystrix (Nalepa). A. hystrix appeared more frequent [present in 65.0% of all collected samples; (95% confidence interval: 50–80)] and abundant [mean number of individuals per sample: 207.3 (94.4–351.5)] than A. tosichella (17.5%; (7.5–3.0), 13.8 (0.9–32.8), respectively). Significant differences in numbers among studied mite species populations on different host plants have been found. It is concluded that wheat is the marginal host for these two eriophyoids when compared to quackgrass.
Studies on some enzymes involved in insecticide resistance in fenitrothion‐resistant and ‐susceptible strains of Musca domestica L. (Dipt, Muscidae)
Authors: Ahmed S. , Wilkins R. M.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: The toxicity of fenitrothion and fenitrothion plus synergists was determined by topical application to adults of fenitrothion‐resistant (571ab) and ‐susceptible (Cooper) strains of Musca domestica L. The strain 571ab was 232‐fold resistant to fenitrothion when compared with the Cooper strain. Co‐administration of fenitrothion with three synergists, namely piperonyl butoxide (PBO), tributylphosphorotrithioate (DEF) and diethyl maleate (DEM) was investigated, respectively, at 1 : 5, 1 : 5 and 1 : 10 ratio. This co‐administration of fenitrothion with PBO, DEF and DEM caused a decrease in the doses which produced 50% lethality (LD50s) in 571ab but had no synergistic effect on fenitrothion toxicity was observed in the Cooper strain. The effect of topical application of fenitrothion alone and in combination with PBO, DEF and DEM at the LD50 level on some enzyme activities in 571ab and Cooper strains was examined. The application of fenitrothion alone and in combination with DEF and DEM at LD50 level caused a significant decrease in activities of total esterases, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and glutathione S‐transferase (GST) in the 571ab strain. The decrease in GST activity was not significant in treated flies of the Cooper strain when compared with GST activity of control flies. A non‐significant effect on total cytochrome P450 level was observed with fenitrothion alone and the fenitrothion + PBO treatment. No increase in activity level of total esterases, AChE and GST was found, which might suggest that changes in activity level of these enzymes are not related to fenitrothion resistance in the 571ab strain.
Goniothalamin – a potent mosquito larvicide from Bryonopsis laciniosa L.
Authors: Kabir K. E. , Khan A. R. , Mosaddik M. A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract: Goniothalamin isolated from the indigenous plant, Bryonopsis laciniosa L., was highly effective against the larvae of the mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus Say, as a mosquitocide. This is the first report of goniothalamin. The structure of the bioactive compound isolated from the EtOAc (CH3COOC2H5) fraction was established through spectroscopic methods using 1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR in CDCl3. The mass spectrum was also recorded using VG micromass ZAB mass spectrometer.
Interference of Copper Sulphate in Growth of Erwinia amylovora
Authors: Geider K.
Published: March 2003

To understand the toxicity of copper salts on Erwinia amylovora, which are used in the control of fire blight, bacterial growth and cell metabolism was assayed with copper sulphate in the presence or absence of complex‐forming compounds such as various amino acids or citrate. In minimal medium without amino acids copper sulphate strongly interfered with the growth of E. amylovora. A concentration of 15 μm CuSO4 resulted in about 50% growth inhibition. In contrast to a strong effect of streptomycin, copper ions barely killed the cells when incubated in minimal medium for 1 h. The addition of 4 g asparagine per litre relieved a‘bacteriostatic’effect of copper ions and allowed growth of the bacteria at 2 mm CuSO4. Other amino acids had a similar effect in the protection of E. amylovora against copper ions. This was in contrast to glycine betain, which was unable to suppress growth inhibition by CuSO4. Presumably, the free ammonium groups of amino acids participated in the protective effect. The addition of citrate, exceeding the amount of copper‐ions, was also protective. Bioluminescence of E. amylovora cells was expressed via a constitutive promoter from the lux‐operon of Vibrio fischeri. The light emission is dependent on active cell metabolism. In a novel approach to determine the immediate response of E. amylovora after the addition of copper sulphate, the change of bioluminescence was determined. Addition of copper ions to MM3 medium strongly affected the bioluminescence, but no change in light production was noticed, when citrate or asparagine were present in addition to copper sulphate. A decrease of bioluminescence to 50% was observed for 50 μm CuSO4 in the absence of amino acids.
Bacterial Canker of Peach: Effect of Tree Winter Water Content on the Spread of Infection Through Frost‐related Water Soaking in Stems
Authors: Vigouroux A.
Published: March 2003

Several experiments were conducted to study the influence of water content in trees on dye diffusion or controlled Pseudomonas syringae pv. persicae infection spread induced in winter by water soaking after freezing and thawing. These were carried out in a cold cabinet in excised dormant hardy 1‐year‐old slightly dehydrated or rehydrated peach shoots, and in whole variably hydrated peach trees cultivated outdoors in 3001 containers. In shoots, dye diffusion was more substantial and infection more widespread when water content was higher. In potted peach trees, the spread of individual bacterial cankers which was induced by inoculating different shoots over two successive winters, was more restricted when tree water content was lower. In both years, a high positive correlation coefficient was observed between individual tree water content and mean canker length. This study revealed that stem water content in peach trees during winter and frosts is a fundamental factor in infection because it can drastically affect bacteria diffusion in cortical tissues during frost‐ and thaw‐related water soaking. The effect of water content may have important epidemiological consequences firstly due to the influence of several environmental and agronomic factors on tree water content, and then to the prevalence of frost‐related water soaking in many perennial and herbaceous plants.
Study of Genetic Variability Among Monopycnidial and Monopycnidiospore Isolates Derived from Single Pycnidia of Stagonospora ssp. and Septoria tritici with the use of RAPD‐PCR, MP‐PCR and rep‐PCR Techniques
Authors: Czembor P. C. , Arseniuk E.
Published: March 2003

Thirty‐six isolates of Stagonospora avenae f. sp. triticea, S. nodorum and Septoria tritici recovered from asexual fruiting bodies ‐ pycnidia and their spores were assessed for DNA polymorphism with the use of three molecular techniques: microsatellite‐primed polymerase chain reaction (MP‐PCR), primers correspond to dispersed repetitive elements (rep‐PCR) and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD‐PCR). These polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based techniques were simultaneously evaluated for their capacity to detect genetic variation at DNA level. The most polymorphic DNA profiles of monopycnidial and monopycnidiospore isolates were detected with diverse microsatellite motifs used for PCR priming. The lowest similarity values 0.86, 0.76 and 0.84 were identified among monopycnidiospore isolates derived from the same pycnidium of S. avenae f. sp. triticea, S. nodorum and S. tritici, respectively. The above, rather low similarities, found for isolates recovered from single pycnidia, supported a hypothesis that heterokaryosis resulted from high mutation rate of microsatellites and transposons activity. This would have fundamental consequences for the genetic status of asexual populations of Stagonospora spp. and S. tritici. The data produced by this study indicate that more attention should be paid to asexual reproduction as a possible source of genetic variability among populations of the pathogens.
Development of A Rapid Method for the Diagnosis of Citrus Greening Disease using the Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Hung T. H. , Wu M. L. , Su H. J.
Published: March 2003

The fastidious bacterium causing citrus greening disease occurs in uneven and low concentrations in the sieve tubes of host plants. A rapid and sensitive assay based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been developed using the primers derived from the sequences of the cloned DNA fragment of greening fastidious bacterium (GFB) to detect GFB infection in citrus. One set of the primer pairs (named 226‐primer pair), which generates a 226 bp GFB‐specific fragment from total DNA templates purified from diseased citrus plants, was tested and chosen for PCR amplification. The PCR‐based assay using this 226‐primer pair effectively detected GFB infection in various citrus cultivars collected from different Asian countries. This detection technique, which can be completed within 6 h, offers a rapid and efficient method for accurate diagnosis of citrus greening disease.
Pathogenicity of Sirodesmin‐deficient Mutants of Phoma lingam
Authors: (†) J. Sock , Hoppe H.‐H.
Published: March 2003

Sirodesmin‐deficient mutants were produced from aggressive isolates of Phoma lingam by UV‐mutagenesis. The mutation rates were 7.1 × 10‐3 for mutants expressing a 100‐fold reduction of sirodesmin PL in liquid cultures and 1.8 × 10‐3 for mutants with a 1000‐fold reduction. The low ability of the mutants to produce sirodesmins was also apparent in planta after infection of cotyledons or the stem basis of Brassica napus. Growth rates under in vitro conditions, colony morphology, mating types and the formation of pycnidia and asci were not affected by the mutation. The mutants had the same ability as the wild types to infect cotyledons of the susceptible B. napus cv. Lirabon and to cause a typical grey‐green tissue collapse. On the stem basis of the cv. Cobra, however, mutants caused significantly smaller lesions. These results indicate that phytotoxic sirodesmins produced by P. lingam have no basic role in pathogenesis and apparently are not involved in the virulence on cotyledons. However, it cannot be excluded that the compounds act as virulence factors on the stem base of B. napus.
The Occurrence of Barley Mild Mosaic Virus (BaMMV) in China and the Nucleotide Sequence of its Coat Protein Gene
Authors: Zheng T. , Cheng Y. , Chen J. P. , Antoniw J. F. , Adams M. J.
Published: March 2003

Barley mild mosaic bymovirus (BaMMV) was detected in 1991, 1992, 1996 and 1997 by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and immunosorbent electron microscopy in barley (Hordeum vulgare) from three sites in China (Rudong, Yancheng and Haian). The virus was always present with barley yellow mosaic bymovirus (BaYMV) in the Chinese BaYMV‐susceptible cultivar Yanfuaizhao 3, but was not detected in 14 European and two Japanese cultivars that were tested. Electrophoresis of viral RNA and immunoblot analysis indicated that the Chinese isolate of BaMMV contained two RNAs (7.3 and 3.5 kb) and a single coat protein of approximately 33 kDa. The coat protein gene of the virus was amplified by reverse transcriptase (RT)‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR), cloned into the pBluescript (13 +) vector and sequenced. It was identical in length (753 nucleotides; 251 amino acids) to that of isolates from Japan, Korea, Germany, France and the UK. Its homology with the other isolates was 87.8 to 95.2% (nucleotides) and 91.8 to 97.6% (amino acids), and the isolate was most similar to those from Korea and Japan. The results confirmed that the virus detected in China was indeed BaMMV and suggested also that a specific strain of BaMMV has long been established in China.
Agronomic Performance of Partly Clubroot‐resistant Spring Oilseed Turnip Rape Lines
Authors: Wallenhammar A. ‐C. , Johnsson L. , Gerhardson B.
Published: March 2003

In field experiment studies that tested the effects of three partly resistant cultivars of spring oilseed turnip rape (Brassica campestris), multiplication of clubroot was moderate. When initial soil inoculum levels were 47–72% of infected test plants in the bioassay, only 2.1–10% of the plants were infected after harvest. The yield of partly resistant lines was 5–10% higher compared with that of the susceptible cultivar SW Kulta, which on average yielded 1.73 t/ha. The average disease severity index (DSI) after harvest in these trials was 12.7 for the nonresistant cultivar SW Kulta and ranged between 2.2 and 6.2 for the partly resistant lines. The study demonstrated that in fields where the soil infestation level gives a DSI of less than 10, or when less than 20% of the bait plants are infected in the bioassay, it is possible to avoid the risk of severe yield losses from clubroot infections by integrating a partly resistant cultivar into the crop rotation.
Heavy Metal Accumulation in Virus‐infected Tomatoes
Authors: Miteva  , Maneva  , Hristova  , Bojinova
Published: March 2003

The study of the relationship between host‐plants, viral pathogens and heavy metals can provide new knowledge to support the efforts directed toward environmental balance, the development of resistant plants and stable farming. The objective of this study was to establish the effect of the combination of virus infection and heavy metals on tomatoes; the effect of heavy metal accumulation rate in the plants and of plant behaviour under the effect of both stress factors. It has been established that infections, caused by the cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) and tomato mosaic virus (ToMV), affect the accumulation rate of heavy metals such as Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd and As in tomatoes. This process is specific for each element and is expressed more strongly with CMV. The response of plants, treated with heavy metals through the root system and infected with CMV and ToMV is different, depending on the virus. CMV combined with heavy metals depressed the whole plant to the same degree whereas ToMV in combination with the same heavy metals depressed the development of the tomato root system more intensively in comparison with the overground part. There is a relationship between the studied biotic and abiotic stress factors of tomato plants.
Sequence of a Second Isolate of Chinese Wheat Mosaic Furovirus
Authors: Yang  , Chen  , Chen  , Jiang  , Zhao  , Adams
Published: March 2003

The nucleotide sequences of the two RNAs of an isolate of Chinese wheat mosaic furovirus (CWMV) from Rongcheng, Shandong province, China, where the infected wheat crop developed particularly severe symptoms, were determined. The two RNAs consisted of 7147 and 3564 nucleotides, and shared 95.5% identity to those of the Yantai CWMV isolate previously described. Differences were greatest in the coat protein readthrough domain and the 19 kDa cysteine‐rich protein (both on RNA2). A CGxxH amino acid sequence motif common to the cysteine‐rich proteins of the genera Furovirus, Hordeivirus, Tobravirus and Pecluvirus was detected.
Gliocladium catenulatum as a Potential Biological Control Agent of Damping‐off in Bedding Plants
Authors: Mcquilken  , Gemmell  , Lahdenperä
Published: March 2003

Hyphal interactions between the antagonist Gliocladium catenulatum and the soil‐borne plant pathogenic fungi, Pythium ultimum and Rhizoctonia solani, were investigated in dual culture by scanning electron microscopy. Gliocladium catenulatum hyphae grew along and sometimes coiled loosely around those of the pathogens. Appressorium‐like structures were produced by the antagonist which aided in holding and penetrating the hosts’ hyphae. Partial destruction of these was observed in the later stages of parasitism. A wettable powder formulation of the antagonist was then evaluated for biological control of damping‐off in bedding plant seedlings grown in a peat‐based growing medium, artificially infested with P. ultimum or R. solani. A growing medium incorporation or drench of the formulation were, in general, equally effective in reducing damping‐off and, in most cases, as effective as fungicide drenches of propamocarb HCl or tolclofos‐methyl. Populations of G. catenulatum survived well in the pathogen‐infested growing medium with levels of >106 colony forming units/cm3 being detected 28 days after application. Survival of G. catenulatum in the formulation and subsequent ability to reduce damping‐off was unaffected by storage for 48 weeks at ≤ 5°C. Further, agar tests with fungicides showed that furalaxyl, propamocarb HCl and fosetyl‐aluminium were minimally detrimental to the growth of the antagonist. The commercial implications of the results are discussed.
Isolation, Identification and Evaluation of Bacterial Antagonists against Botrytis elliptica on Lily
Authors: Chiou A. L. , Wu W. S.
Published: March 2003

Of the 700 micro‐organisms isolated from lily plants and screened by dual and concomitant cultures, 10 isolates (B99, B111, B128, B131, B171, B190, B196, B203, B501 and BS) had antagonistic effects against Botrytiselliptica on three lily cultivars in greenhouse trials. Using the Biolog system, isolates B99 and B111 were identified as Burkholderia gladioli, and B128 and B190 as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. In the field, B. gladioli B111, B. amyloliquefaciens B128, B190 or 100 p.p.m. flusilazole effectively controlled the occurrence of lily grey mould (significance, P=0.05).
Complete Nucleotide Sequence and Genome Organization of Soybean Crinkle Leaf Virus
Authors: Samretwanich K. , Kittipakorn K. , Chiemsombat P. , Ikegami M.
Published: March 2003

The genomic DNA of soybean crinkle leaf virus (SCLV) from Thailand has been sequenced. The single circular DNA molecule comprises 2737 nucleotides, and contains eight open reading frames each capable of encoding a protein with a molecular weight greater than 10 kDa. A 39‐base potential stem‐loop forming region occurs in the intergenic region (IR) that also includes the conserved nonanucleotide sequence TAATATTAC. The iterative sequence (TCAATCGGTGT), which is specific to SCLV, is also found in the IR. SCLV is most closely related (90% identity) to the monopartite geminivirus ageratum yellow vein virus. As the two viruses differ in host range, and the iterative sequence is specific to SLCV, the virus is a distinct monopartite geminivirus of soybean.
Polyclonal Antibodies to the Bacterially Expressed Coat Protein of Faba Bean Necrotic Yellows Virus
Authors: Kumari S. G. , Makkouk K. M. , Katul L. , Vetten H. J.
Published: March 2003

Specific rabbit polyclonal antibodies against bacterially expressed coat protein of Faba bean necrotic yellows virus (FBNYV, genus Nanovirus) were produced using a recombinant DNA approach. The FBNYV capsid protein (CP) gene located on component 5 was cloned in an expression vector pQE‐9 (Qiagen, QIAGEN Inc., Chatswortch, CA91311, USA). Expression of the CP with an N‐terminal hexahistidine tag in Escheri‐ chia coli M15 cells was induced by adding isopropyl‐3‐D‐1‐thiogalactoside (IPTG) to a final concentration of 2 mM. About 8 mg of bacterially expressed CP (BE‐CP) was purified from 1 litre of bacterial liquid culture using a Ni‐NTA resin column (Qiagen). The expressed CP which migrated as a protein of approximately 23 kDa in sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS)‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) was identified by its strong reaction with polyclonal antibodies produced against FBNYV particles and 2‐5H9 FBNYV‐monoclonal in Western blots. Expressed and purified CP (SDS‐PAGE 23 kDa band) was injected into a white rabbit, using seven intramuscular injections at weekly intervals. The antiserum produced was evaluated for FBNYV detection in double antibody sandwich (DAS)‐enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), triple antibody sandwich (TAS)‐ELISA, tissue blot immunoassay (TBIA), dot blot, Western blot and goat antimouse coating (GAMC)‐ELISA using 13 different FBNYV monoclonal antibodies. The antiserum raised against the BE‐CP gave strong FBNYV‐specific TBIA reactions and very weak background reactions with non‐infected tissue, similar to those produced by monoclonal antibodies. Furthermore, BE‐CP polyclonal antibody reacted weakly with FBNYV‐infected tissue and strongly with BE‐CP in DAS‐ELISA, but not with FBNYV‐infected tissue in TAS‐ELISA when 13 detecting monoclonal antibodies were used. In addition, BE‐CP polyclonal antibody reacted strongly with BE‐CP in TAS‐ELISA only when 2‐5H9 detecting monoclonal was used. When monoclonals were used as primary antibody and BE‐CP polyclonal as detecting antibody (GAMC‐ELISA), FBNYV‐infected tissue gave moderate reactions with 2‐5H9 and strong reactions with 3‐2E9 monoclonal, whereas BE‐CP gave equally strong reactions with both monoclonals. These results showed that the BE‐CP polyclonal antibody is useful for the detection of FBNYV in infected tissue by TBIA and dot blot tests.
Effect of Metabolic Inhibitors on Red Light‐induced Resistance of Broad Bean (Vicia faba L.) against Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Rahman M. Z. , Honda Y. , Islam S. Z. , Arase S.
Published: March 2003

A possible relationship between the synthetic activities of broad bean leaves and red light‐induced resistance against Botrytis cinerea was examined. Both lesion formation and fungal development were suppressed under red light irradiation. In red light‐irradiated leaflets, restricted chocolate lesions were observed only on their inoculated adaxial surfaces, whereas black lesions extended to non‐inoculated abaxial surfaces in the dark. In microscopic studies, clear cell browning was recognized only in red light‐irradiated leaves. Treatment of leaves with an inhibitor of photosynthesis, 3‐(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐1,1‐dimethyl urea (DCMU) (25 μm), and an inhibitor of protein synthesis, cycloheximide (25 μg/ml), inhibited the induction of resistance by red light irradiation. Moreover, DCMU‐ and cycloheximide‐treated leaflets produced black necrotic lesions even under red light irradiation for 48 h, which extended to the non‐inoculated abaxial surface. DCMU did not affect fungal growth, spore production or spore germination of B. cinerea. By contrast, cycloheximide at 25 μg/ml suppressed mycelial growth, but not spore production, whereas cycloheximide at the same concentration completely inhibited spore germination. These results suggest that red light‐induced resistance possibly depends on host photosynthesis and protein synthesis.
Application of RAPD‐PCR for Virulence Type Analysis within Verticillium dahliae and V. longisporum
Authors: Zeise K. , Von Tiedemann A.
Published: March 2003

A collection of 24 isolates of Verticillium dahliae, 11 isolates of V. longisporum and one isolate of V. albo‐atrum originating from different host plants and geographical regions was tested for genetic variability by random amplified polymorphic DNA‐polymerase chain reaction (RAPD–PCR). Based on nine primers, the three Verticillium species could be clearly differentiated. Likewise, this analysis provided a distinct separation of vegetative compatibility groups (VCG) 2B, 4A and 4B of V. dahliae by specific DNA banding patterns. Additionally, V. longisporum was found to segregate into two subgroups with only 88% similarity. This molecular‐genetic approach was used for the analysis of randomly selected Verticillium isolates from a field with high intensity of oilseed rape cultivation (33% in crop rotation). RAPD‐PCR analysis revealed that 95 of 100 isolates tested belonged to V. longisporum and 5 to VCG 2B of V. dahliae. This study demonstrates an adaptation of Verticillium soil populations to a specific cropping history.
Genetic Diversity Between Botrytis cinerea Isolates from Unstored and Cold Stored Kiwi fruit
Authors: Baraldi E. , Bertolini P. , Chierici E. , Trufelli B. , Luiselli D.
Published: March 2003

Ninety isolates of Botrytis cinerea collected from kiwi fruit in orchards and in cold storage were compared phenotypically and genetically. The phenotypic characters evaluated were conidia germination, germ tube length and mycelial growth at 0∘ and 20∘C. At 20∘C the two populations showed slight differences but, at 0∘C, isolates from cold storage appeared to grow significantly faster than isolates from orchards. Isolates were then scored with six genetic markers with the aim of investigating population, genetic structure and the mode of reproduction. We detected no genetic differentiation between isolates from orchards and those from cold storage. This suggests that low temperature adaptation of B. cinerea isolates does not have a genetic basis. By contrast, we found great intra‐population genetic diversity, observations suggesting the occurrence of genetic recombination which follows sexual reproduction or alternatively of parasexuality.
Surveys for Beet Necrotic Yellow Vein Virus (the Cause of Rhizomania), other Viruses, and Soil‐borne Fungi Infecting Sugar Beet in Syria
Authors: Mouhanna A. M. , Nasrallah A. , Langen G. , Schlösser E.
Published: March 2003

Production of sugar beet, the most important source of sugar in Syria, has suffered from many problems in the past, especially from diseases. No previous surveys have been made in Syria for viral diseases and soil‐borne fungi of sugar beet. In 1998, samples were collected from plants showing symptoms of virus infection (yellowing, wilting, necrosis and mosaic). Root samples (341) were collected from crops of autumn‐sown seed from 115 localities in seven provinces, 173 root samples from spring‐sown crops and 39 leaf samples were collected during both seasons. The root samples were tested for the presence of viruses by double antibody sandwich‐enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and triple antibody sandwich‐ELISA, and for soil‐borne fungi by red plate (Rose Bengal) dishes. We have shown for the first time the presence of Beet necrotic yellow vein virus, Beet soil‐borne virus, Beet yellows virus and Beet mild yellowing virus in Syrian sugar beet fields in which Rhizoctonia sp. and Fusarium sp. were also widely distributed.
Genetic Diversity Among Iranian Isolates of Rhizoctonia solani Kühn Anastomosis Group1 Subgroups Based on Isozyme Analysis and Total Soluble Protein Pattern
Authors: Mohammadi M. , Banihashemi M. , Hedjaroude G.‐A. , Rahimian H.
Published: March 2003

Rhizoctonia solani is a destructive fungal pathogen with a wide host range. The R. solani complex species includes several divergent groups delimited by affinities for hyphal anastomosis. In this study, genetic variation among 20 isolates of R. solani anastomosis group 1 (AG1) subgroups (AG1‐IA and AG1‐IB) collected from Mâzandaran province, Iran, and standard isolates of these subgroups, was determined by isozyme analysis and total soluble protein profile. Mycelial protein pattern and isozyme analysis were studied using denaturing and non‐denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, respectively. A total of 15 enzyme systems were tested, among which six enzymes including esterase, alkaline phosphatase, superoxide dismutase, octanol dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase and mannitol dehydrogenase generated distinct and reproducible results. The soluble protein patterns were similar among the R. solani isolates examined; however, minor differences in banding pattern were observed between the two subgroups. In isozyme analysis, a total of 64 electrophoretic phenotypes were detected for all six enzymes used. Based on cluster analysis and similarity matrix, the fungal isolates were divided into two genetically distinct groups of I and II consistent with the previously reported AG1‐IA and AG1‐IB subgroups in AG1. Group I represented all isolates belonging to AG1‐IA subgroup, whereas group II represented all isolates belonging to AG1‐IB subgroup. Results from isozyme analysis suggest that the subgrouping concept within AGs is genetically based.
Comparison of Three Different Techniques for Subcutaneous Relocation of the Carotid Artery in Small Ruminants
Authors: Prassinos N. , Raptopoulos D. , Adamama‐Moraitou K. , Galatos A. D.
Published: March 2003

Three surgical techniques for subcutaneous relocation of the carotid artery in small ruminants are compared. A total of 25 sheep and seven goats were used and randomly assigned to three groups. In group A (technique A), the carotid artery was moved subcutaneously and kept there by suturing the tissues on both sides of the jugular vein beneath the relocated artery and the skin above it. In the other two groups the relocated artery was secured into a skin strip (technique B) or a skin fold (technique C). The animals were used for repeated blood sampling over a period of several months.

Technique A did not provide good immobilization whilst among the three, technique B provided the least protection of the relocated artery and was the most difficult to perform. It was concluded that technique C was superior to the other two methods in providing better conditions for long‐term blood sampling.
Statistical Shape Analysis of Volumetric Capnograms: Evaluation of a New Approach for the Assessment of Pulmonary Function in Horses with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Herholz C. , Straub R. , Moens Y. , Busato A.
Published: March 2003

The shape of the volumetric capnogram is modified by airway obstruction, and the evaluation of this deformation could allow an indirect measurement of bronchial patency. The study included 35 horses; five horses without evidence of pulmonary disease (group I) and 30 horses suffering from different degrees of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (groups II–IV). Data of recorded CO2 and volume curves were off‐line plotted and statistically analysed using regression analysis. Analyses were performed separately for fractions 25–95 % (VTE25–95), 25–50 % (VTE25–50) and 50–95 % (VTE50–95) of expiratory tidal volume. For VTE25–95 estimates of linear and quadratic regression parameters were significantly different between groups. For VTE25–50 linear terms were significant in all clinical groups and decreased considerably from group I to group IV. Linear and quadratic terms for VTE50–95 were significant in all clinical groups and increased with the severity of COPD. The difference of total expiratory CO2 volume was significant between all groups. Statistical analysis of the volumetric capnogram is a precise method for description of shape deformities of the single breath diagram for CO2 (SBD‐CO2) in horses with COPD and global models including phase II and III of the SBD‐CO2 are helpful in the detection of pulmonary function impairment. However, although the model of the statistical shape analysis of the SBD‐CO2 is precise, it may not necessarily be a useful test to discriminate horses with minor, moderate and severe COPD for clinical use.
Pregnancy‐Specific Protein B (bPSPB) and Progesterone Monitoring of Post‐Partum Dairy Cows with Placental Retention
Authors: Tefera M. , Jeanguyot N. , Thibier M. , Pumblot P.
Published: March 2003

The relationship between placental retention, progesterone and pregnancy‐specific protein B (bPSPB) was determined in 60 calving Holstein cows. The cows were divided into two groups with placental retention (WPR, n=16) and no placental retention (NPR, n=44). Every 4 days, until 60 days post‐partum, blood samples were taken and the uteri were checked using ultrasonography. The puerperal characteristics of NPR and WPR were as follows: mean days of abnormal vaginal discharge: 20.2 ± 5 versus 35.6 ± 7 (P < 0.01); mean intervals to uterine involution: 21.4 ± 3.7 versus 27.6 ± 7.6 days (P < 0.01); rate of endometritis: 25 versus 100 % (P < 0.01). The mean numbers of oestrus cycles per cow were 1.75 ± 0.5 versus 0.85 ± 0.9 (P < 0.05) and the mean durations of the first oestrus cycle were 18 ± 3.5 versus 16 ± 2.1 days (P > 0.05). The mean intervals to first ovulation were 21.5 ± 8.4 versus 35 ± 19 days (P < 0.01). bPSPB blood concentrations were higher in the WPR group at calving with 955 ± 170 versus 750 ± 205 ng/ml (P < 0.01) and also during the first 32 days post‐partum with 173.68 ± 47.3 versus 131.0 ± 29.2 ng/ml (P < 0.01). The mean bPSPB half‐life was similar in the two groups: 6.9 ± 2.5 versus 6.5 ± 2.1 days (P > 0.05). In conclusion, it was found that placental retention was associated with a higher rate of endometritis, a lower number of cycles, longer interval to first post‐partum ovulation and higher concentration of bPSPB at calving and during the post‐partum period. The positive relationship between bPSPB concentrations and calf birth weight and their association with post‐partum pathological events may be useful in monitoring animals presenting high concentrations at calving.
Comparison of the Clearance of 99mTechnetium‐DTPA From the Lung and Lung Function Indices Derived From the Single Breath Diagram for Carbon Dioxide in Horses with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Herholz C. , Philipp M. , Straub R. , Ueltschi G. , Busato A.
Published: March 2003

The elimination of carbon dioxide from the lung can be used to monitor ventilation and perfusion, and 99mtechnetium‐diethylenetriaminepentaacetate (99mTc‐DTPA) clearance is a highly sensitive index of alveolar epithelial integrity, which is a presupposition for effective gas exchange. The aim of this study was to determine whether a correlation exists between indices of lung function derived from the single breath diagram for CO2 and 99mTc‐DTPA clearance in horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The rate of 99mTc‐DTPA elimination was negatively and substantially correlated with the dead space according to Bohr’s formula, and the physiological and alveolar dead space. Strong and significant correlations existed between the three dead space indices and the alveolar fraction of CO2, and the ratio A1/A2 as an index of alveolar efficiency. The associations found were dependent on the clinical status of health and the mode of calculation of 99mTc‐DTPA alveolar clearance.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Presa Canario Dogs: ECG Findings
Authors: Morales M. , Ynaraja E. , Montoya J. A.
Published: March 2003

Forty‐seven Presa canario dogs were diagnosed with congestive heart failure due to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Supraventricular or ventricular tachydysrhythmias were found in 29 dogs. Atrial fibrillation was the most common dysrhythmia. Ventricular dysrhythmias were observed infrequently and had a very important prognostic value in Presa canario dogs with DCM. Abnormalities of cardiac conduction were diagnosed in 16 (34%) dogs and changes in wave morphology were found in 29 (62%) dogs. Normal sinus rhythm was recorded in only 12 (26%) Presa canario dogs with DCM.
A DirectStyI Polymerase Chain Reaction–Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) Test for the Myophosphorylase Mutation in Cattle
Authors: SOETHOUT E. C. , VERKAAR E. L. C. , JANSEN G. H. , MU¨LLER K. E. , LENSTRA J. A.
Published: March 2003

Myophosphorylase deficiency in cattle is a muscle disease induced by a C→T point mutation in codon 489 of the myophosphorylase gene, which until now has only been diagnosed in the Charolais breed. The disease seems to be inherited in an autosomal monogenic recessive manner. A calf of double muscled phenotype was suspected of suffering from myophosphorylase deficiency based on typical symptoms, i.e. brown‐coloured, transparent urine, occurring after exercise; exercise intolerance; symptoms of pain; and an elevated level of plasma creatine kinase. The presence of the previously described mutation was excluded using a newly developed, improved polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) procedure to identify easily heterozygous carriers and homozygous affected animals.