bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two New Species of Nosema (Microsporida: Nosematidae) from the Mexican Bean Beetle Epilachna varivestis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)1,2
Authors: BROOKS W. M. , HAZARD E. I. , BECNEL J.
Published: May 2007

Two new species of the genus Nosema (Microsporida: Nosematidae) are described from the Mexican bean beetle, Epilachna varivestis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and their life cycle stages studied by light and electron microscopy. Both species are monomorphic and disporous: they develop in direct contact with the cytoplasm of host cells and the nuclei of all stages are diplokaryotic. The more virulent species produces systemic infections most extensively in the adipose tissue, muscles, and Malpighian tubules of larvae and also invades the reproductive tissues of adult beetles. During merogonic development, it forms chains of diplokaryotic meronts. The fine structure of the sporoblast nuclei shows clumped material in the pole of each nucleus opposite their common plane of apposition. Spores are straight to slightly curved and ovocylindrical in shape and they measure 5.3 ± 0.13 × 2.1 ± 0.03 μm. The less virulent species also invades most host tissues but does not develop in the midgut epithelium; the Malpighian tubules are the principal site of its development and it also invades the ovaries and testes of adult beetles. Merogony occurs exclusively as the result of binary fission of diplokaryotic meronts. The plasmalemma of the meronts is covered with a thin deposit of exospore material upon which are located closely packed tubules that encircle the body transversely. A thickened deposit of exospore material on the surface of the diplokaryotic sporonts later obscures these tubules. Other tubules occur free in the host cell cytoplasm or attached to the plasmalemma of meronts and sporonts. Secretory granules also occur free or in chains in the host cytoplasm and are probably produced from the surface of the sporoblasts. Sporoblasts also contain an unusual cup‐shaped organelle associated with a dense body, which is apparently involved in the formation of the polar tube and its associated organelles in the anterior part of the spore. Spores are ellipsoidal to slightly pyriform and measure 4.7 ± 0.06 × 2.6 ± 0.03 μm.
Calyptospora empristica n. sp. (Eimeriorina: Calyptosporidae) from the Liver of the Starhead Topminnow, Fundulus notti1
Authors: FOURNIE JOHN W. , HAWKINS WILLIAM E. , OVERSTREET ROBIN M.
Published: May 2007

Oocysts of Calyptospora empristica n. sp., the second described species in its genus, are described from the freshwater starhead topminnow, Fundulus notti, in southern Mississippi. Oocysts are 22 μm in diameter with a wall about 20 nm thick and have no residuum, micropyle, or polar granule. Sporocysts are spheroid, 9 × 5 μm with a two‐layered wall approximately 120 nm thick. They have an oblong apical opening at the anterior pole, a single ornamented sporopodium approximately 5.7 μm long at the posterior pole, and a residuum. An intermediate host, most likely the freshwater grass shrimp Palaemonetes kadiakensis, is probably required to complete the life cycle.
Eimeria ladronensis n. sp. and E. albigulae (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the Woodrat, Neotoma albigula (Rodentia: Cricetidae)1
Authors: REDUKER DAVID W. , DUSZYNSKI DONALD W.
Published: May 2007

Of 50 white‐throated woodrats (Neotoma albigula) collected from Socorro Co., New Mexico, 21 (42%) had eimerian oocysts in their feces when examined. Of the 21 Neotoma found positive for Eimeria, 19 (90%) harbored a single eimerian species at time of examination. Eimeria albigulae Levine, Ivens & Kruidenier, 1957, was found in 18 (86%), and E. ladronensis n. sp. was found in five (24%) infected woodrats. Sporulated oocysts of E. ladronensis are ellipsoidal, 19–25 × 13–15 (21.4 ± 1.3 × 14.1 ± 1.1) μm, have a smooth wall and one or two polar granules, but lack a micropyle and an oocyst residuum. Sporocysts are tapered at one end, 7–10 × 6–7 (8.5 ± 0.7 × 6.5 ± 0.3) μm, and have a Stieda body and sporocyst residuum, but no substieda body. Prepatent periods for E. albigulae and E. ladronensis n. sp. are 5–6 and 8–9 days, respectively; patent periods are 7–18 and approximately 11 days, respectively.
Effect of Colchicine, Vinblastine, and Cytochalasin B on Cell Surface Anionic Sites of Tritrichomonas foetus1
Authors: FILHO FERNANDO COSTA E SILVA , DE SOUZA WANDERLEY
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Drugs that interact with microtubules (colchicine and vinblastine) and microfilaments (cytochalasin B) partially inhibited cell growth and motility of Tritrichomonas foetus. Parasites incubated with these substances became rounded and cell division was blocked. Neither colchicine nor vinblastine disrupted the microtubules that form the peltar‐axostylar system. Any one of these drugs interfered with the net negative surface charge of T. foetus as evaluated by determination of the cellular electrophoretic mobility (EPM). The decrease in the EPM of cytochalasin B‐treated cells was caused by dimethylsulfoxide, which was used as solvent. Untreated cells as well as cytochalasin B‐treated cells showed a uniform distribution of anionic sites on the plasma membrane as seen with cationized ferritin particles. In cells treated with colchicine or vinblastine the anionic sites were distributed in patches. These results are discussed in terms of participation of labile cytoplasmic microtubules and microfilaments in the control of the distribution of anionic sitecontaining macromolecules located on the cell surface of T. foetus.
The Structure and Function of Müller Vesicles in Loxodid Ciliates1
Authors: FENCHEL TOM , FINLAY BLAND J.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The Müller vesicle is a characteristic organelle of loxodid ciliates. Its structure and development have been investigated using light microscopy and TEM. The organelle consists of a membrane‐covered mineral body (the statolith), a vacuole, and various structures derived from the overlying kinety. There is strong evidence that the vesicle functions as a gravity sensor: a) its structure and relative dimensions fulfil the minimum requirements of a functional statocyst; b) its structure bears a close resemblance to the statocysts of some higher animals; c) re‐orientation of the cell with respect to gravity produces a gravity‐induced displacement of the mineral body, and d) geotaxis in Loxodes can be demonstrated experimentally. The transduction of the signal probably takes place at the level of the two kinetosomes of the organelle, one of which is in close contact with the cell membrane, while the other is connected to the statolith by a fairly rigid stalk containing a bundle of microtubules.
Identification of the Basal Bodies and Kinetodesmal Fibers in Living Cells of Paramecium tetraurelia Sonneborn, 1975 and Paramecium sonneborni Aufderheide, Daggett & Nerad, 19831
Authors: AUFDERHEIDE KARL J.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Critical use of Nomarski DIC optics and a rotocompressor permits basal bodies and kinetodesmal fibers to be visualized in the cortices of living Paramecium tetraurelia and Paramecium sonneborni. The identification of these structures is confirmed by the correspondence of the images obtained by DIC optics of living cells and by brightfield optics of fixed cells stained by the Fernández‐Galiano silver technique.

Examination of cells carrying cortical inversions (portions of the cortex rotated 180°) shows that inverted regions may be identified and distinguished from normal regions by the orientation of the kinetodesmal fibers of the kinetids (cortical units) within the kineties (ciliary rows). This demonstrates that both the asymmetry and the polarity of each cortical unit may be assessed in the living cell. This technique has useful applications in the study of morphogenesis and patterning in living cells and for the screening of mutations and variants conferring altered cortical phenotypes.
Axenic Cultivation and Ultrastructural Study of a Phytomonas sp. Isolated from the Milkweed Plant Euphorbia hyssopifolia1
Authors: ATTIAS MARCIA , DE SOUZA WANDERLEY
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. A large number of trypanosomatids was seen in the latex of the milkweed plant Euphorbia hyssopifolia found in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The parasites, which belong to the genus Phytomonas, were isolated and axenically cultivated in a biphasic culture medium. The form and the structural organization of the parasites as found in the intact plant, in the isolated latex, and in the culture medium was studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy.
Eimeria tenella (Eucoccidiorida): A Quantitative Assay for Sporozoite Infectivity In Vivo1
Authors: CRANE MARK S. J. , GNOZZIO MARK J. , MURRAY P. KEITH
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. A quantitative technique for the assessment of sporozoite infectivity in vivo, using intra‐cecal inoculation of Eimeria tenella sporozoites, has been developed. Evaluation of the infection using cecal lesion scores and oocyst counts showed that this technique should be useful for the quantitation of sporozoite viability and thus for the anti‐sporozoite activity of different treatments prior to inoculation. Pre‐treatment of sporozoites with heat‐inactivated hyperimmune antisera neutralized sporozoite infectivity in vivo and indicated that antibodies in the absence of complement inhibited sporozoite infectivity in vivo.
An Improved Procedure for the Purification of Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas, 1909) Metacyclics from the Insect Vector1
Authors: STILES BRAD , KIERSZENBAUM FELIPE
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. We have developed an improved procedure for isolating and purifying the metacyclic trypomastigote form of Trypanosoma cruzi from infected Triatoma infestans. The procedure was simple, did not require time‐consuming removal of the insect gut, and gave a good recovery of metacyclics. Purification involved centrifugal flotation of the parasites in Percoll followed by diethylaminoethyl cellulose column chromatography. The resulting purified metacyclics exhibited no loss of infectivity when assayed in mice as compared to metacyclics taken directly from the insects.
Ultrastructure and Sliding of Pellicular Structures During Euglenoid Movement in Astasia longa Pringsheim (Sarcomastigophora, Euglenida)1
Authors: SUZAKI T. , WILLIAMSON R. E.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The fine structure of cells and isolated pellicular sheets of Astasia longa is examined in relation to the sliding between neighboring pellicular strips believed to accompany euglenoid movement. Sonication breaks the repeating structure of the pellicle in the groove region where tannic acid fixation resolves separate but overlapping pellicular strips. All microtubules (including the two lying between the overlapping strips) remain with the inner strip. We therefore suggest that this fracture plane defines the boundary where sliding occurs between adjacent pellicular units. Consistent with this, traversing filaments running from groove to groove to connect the pellicular strips of adjacent units are displaced from transverse to oblique when elongated cells round up. In contrast, no changes suggestive of distortion within each unit are detected in the particle arrays of the ridge plasma membrane that overlies a single unit. The results are discussed in relation to previous ultrastructural studies, the site at which the force to cause sliding is generated, and the role of the traversing filaments.
The Fine Structure of the Trophont and Stages in Telotroch Formation in Circolagenophrys ampulla (Ciliophora, Peritrichida)1
Authors: WALKER MURIEL H. , ROBERTS EVALINE M. , USHER MALCOLM L.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Ultrastructural studies of the trophont of the epizooic loricate peritrich, Circolagenophrys ampulla, show that the body conforms to the basic peritrich pattern. The lorica is dome‐shaped, and the trophont is joined to it by attachment organelles. A single row of barren aboral kinetosomes is present. In telotroch formation, as cytokinesis proceeds, a band of aboral kinetosomes develops, running posteroventrally in an arc from the base of the epistomial disc. In one instance, postciliary microtubules were seen associated with the kinetosomes of the adoral polykinety in a dividing organism. In the fully developed telotroch there are several distinctive structures. In the midaboral region there is a scopula with numerous barren kinetosomes in the epiplasm underlying the pellicle. Surrounding the rim of the aboral surface is a tripartite fringe which overlies the base of the aboral ciliary girdle. The outer layer of this fringe contains regularly spaced electron‐dense striations and the middle region contains microfilaments. The aboral ciliary girdle forms a complete ring. It is composed of diagonal rows of kinetosomes, 8–9 in each row. Striated fibers run between the rows of kinetosomes. They bend at the ends of the rows and continue for some distance below the outer rim of the aboral surface. Running beside each striated fiber is a band of paracrystalline material. Several distinctive structures are associated with the kinetosomes and striated fibers of the aboral girdle. In the telotroch many of the adoral cilia are absent but the adoral kinetosomes are still present. The possible functions of the specializations of the aboral surface in settlement of the telotroch, and the relationship between telotroch formation and the molting behavior of the crustacean host are discussed.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Studies of Blastocrithidia triatomae (Trypanosomatidae) in the Rectum of Triatoma infestans (Reduviidae)12
Authors: SCHAUB G. A. , BÖKER C. A.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The morphology of Blastocrithidia triatomae, when colonizing the rectum of Triatoma infestans, was studied by scanning electron microscopy. The posterior end of the epimastigote's body is tapered and often rolled up. The “straphangers” (cyst stages) are connected with the flagellum by “cytoplasmic bridges”; after “straphanger” detachment these bridges persist as remnants. A comparison of colonization densities of B. triatomae and Trypanosoma cruzi shows that both prefer to colonize the rectal gland, but minor density differences are apparent for B. triatomae in other rectal regions. The colonization density in established infections of B. triatomae is always greater than that of T. cruzi, especially near the midgut exit.
Tritrichomonas mobilensis n. sp. (Zoomastigophorea: Trichomonadida) from the Bolivian Squirrel Monkey Saimiri boliviensis boliviensis1
Authors: CULBERSON D. E. , PINDAK F. F. , GARDNER W. A. , HONIGBERG B. M.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. A trichomonad flagellate, Tritrichomonas mobilensis n. sp., is described from the large intestine of the squirrel monkey, Saimiri boliviensis boliviensis. The organism has a lanceolate body 7–10.5 μm in length; a well developed undulating membrane; a stout, tubular axostyle with periaxostylar rings that terminate in a cone‐shaped segment projecting from the posterior end of the cell; and a moderately wide costa. The anterior flagella are about as long as the body, and the recurrent flagellum is of the acroneme type. All its characteristics suggest that the new species belongs in the Tritrichomonas augusta type of the subfamily Tritrichomonadinae.
The Nature and Organization of Filaments in the Oral Apparatus of Tetrahymena1
Authors: WILLIAMS NORMAN E.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Filaments in the oral apparatus of Tetrahymena appear similar, but not identical, to the intermediate filaments of multicellular organisms. The mean diameter of filaments measured in the present study was 16.4 nm, but the range of variation was much greater than has been reported for intermediate filaments. The organization of filaments within the oral apparatus has been studied by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy and immunogold localization at the electron microscopical level using antiserum raised in rabbits against the major subunit protein of the oral filaments (87K). The filaments were found to be organized into cables, networks, and chambers or cages which encase the basal bodies. At the highest level of organization, the filaments connect into a rigid framework capable of maintaining the overall architecture in the absence of microtubules. Like intermediate filaments, the oral filaments are insoluble at high ionic strength, have evolutionarily non‐conservative subunit proteins, are probably non‐contractile, and serve to stabilize persistent cellular architecture.
Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ciliophora) Development in Gill Epithelium1
Authors: EWING MARGARET S. , KOCAN KATHERINE M.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The development of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis trophonts in gill epithelium of channel catfish was studied on the first five days post‐exposure (PE) by light and electron microscopy. Trophonts increased in average diameter from 48 μm at one day PE to 248 μm at five days PE. Although theronts invaded any part of the gill epithelium, at three days PE most parasites were found adjacent to major blood vessels, particularly the afferent vessel. From one to three days PE, 70–90% of trophonts were immediately adjacent to gill epithelium, but at four and five days PE only 50% of trophonts were closely apposed by host epithelial cells. Notable ultrastructural changes in the trophonts over the five‐day period occurred in the mucocysts and lipid inclusions, both of which increased markedly in number. The few crystalline mucocysts present at one day PE were near the cell periphery but rarely attached to the plasma membrane. At three days PE, crystalline mucocysts were significantly more abundant, and at five days PE, they occurred in large numbers throughout the cytoplasm as well as at the periphery. At three days PE, secretory mucocysts were first observed. Contractile vacuoles were more prominent at five days PE than earlier in development. Development of mucocysts and lipid reserves is probably essential to survival and reproduction of the ciliate after it leaves the host.
Critical Periods in Development of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ciliophora) Populations1
Authors: EWING MARGARET S. , LYNN MELANIE E. , EWING S. A.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Three periods in development that strongly influence population dynamics of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis were identified in experimental infections of channel catfish. The first occurred upon establishment within the host, 0 to 10 min postexposure (PE), when the parasite population that gained entrance declined 50%. Survival from 10 to 45 min PE, however, was constant. The second period identified came after I. multifiliis left the host and the free‐living tomont encysted. The third occurred during reproduction. Although survival of encysting tomonts approached 100% among individuals departing after three to five days residence in the host, theront production varied significantly with parasite size, culture temperature during development, and length of residence by the trophont in the host. Theront production per tomont increased daily and on days three, four, and five PE was significantly higher for parasites developing at 24°C than for those at 21°C. At five days PE, mean production was 562 theronts/tomont and 240 theronts/tomont, respectively, and production by tomonts of equal size was greater for parasites maintained at 24°C.
The Feeding Behavior and Structure of Nuclearia delicatula (Filosea: Aconchulinida)
Authors: CANN JOHN P.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The feeding behavior and morphology of Nuclearia delicatula, the type species within the genus, was studied. Feeding was by penetration of damaged or old cells of Spirogyra or by actively ingesting cyanobacterial filaments (of Phormidium), a form of behavior placing it in the family Nucleariidae. This confirms Cienkowski's (1865) observations that N. delicatula penetrates directly into damaged algal cells. This contrasts with the vampyrellids which penetrate healthy cells of Spirogyra. Characteristic behavior of the contractile vacuole complex complied with previous observations on Nuclearia. Mitochondria contain tubular, non‐anastomosing cristae.
Determinations of Volumes and Minimal Surface Areas of Individual Compressed Live Tetrahymena1
Authors: HJELM K. K.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. A method to determine the volume of individual live Tetrahymena with improved precision has been developed. Cells are compressed between a microslide and coverslip and their volume calculated from their thickness and area determined by interference microscopy and from a photomicrograph, respectively. A formula has been derived to correct for the “edge error” which arises because the rounded edges of the cells are projected on the film as if they were rectangular. The minimal surface area of compressed cells, i.e. that necessary to surround the cells smoothly, can also be calculated. Cells may be recovered after measurements. The method may also be applied to other cells.
Conditions for Maximum Enflagellation in Naegleria fowleri1
Authors: CABLE B. L. , JOHN D. T.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. Ameba to flagellate transformation in Naegleria fowleri (Lovell strain) was affected by growth temperature, phase of growth, strain of ameba, culture agitation, enflagellation temperature, enflagellation diluent, and cell concentration. Amebae transformed best when they were grown without agitation and enflagellated with agitation. Regardless of growth temperature (23°, 30°, 37°, and 42°C were tested), amebae transformed best at 37°C. Enflagellation was greatest for cells harvested between 24 h (mid‐exponential) and 84 h (late stationary) of growth.
Recognition of Prey by Suctoria: The Role of Cilia
Authors: SUNDERMANN CHRISTINE A. , PAULIN JEROME J. , DICKERSON HARRY W.
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. The interaction between the predator, Discophrya collini, and the prey, Tetrahymena pyriformis, was investigated in order to determine what prey factors(s) may be recognized, facilitating the feeding response of the suctorian predator. When viable, deciliated T. pyriformis were offered to starved D. collini, only 12% of the suctoria captured a ciliate compared to 98% when presented with ciliated T. pyriformis. Starved suctoria were also offered three types of tanned sheep erythrocytes used as artificial prey. After exposure to erythrocytes coated with sonicates of T. pyriformis, 16% of the D. collini displayed one or more attached erythrocytes but after incubation with erythrocytes coated with T. pyriformis cilia, 72% of the suctoria had tentacles with attached cells. No untreated, tanned erythrocytes were captured. When T. pyriformis were treated with ciliary antiserum and then offered to starved D. collini, the resulting capture rate was low (13%), but T. pyriformis treated with normal rabbit serum were captured at a rate comparable to controls (92%). These results suggest that the prey's cilia and/or their surface macromolecules may facilitate prey capture.
Cultivation of Phytomonas françai Associated with Poor Development of Root System of Cassava1
Authors: VAINSTEIN MARILENE HENNING , ROITMAN ISAAC
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. In the state of Espirito Santo, Brazil, a cassava disease was recently described, and subsequently a high density of trypanosomatids was revealed in the latex of unhealthy plants. To better characterize this flagellate, Phytomonas françai, we tried to grow it axenically. Successful results were obtained using a biphasic medium containing rabbit blood in the solid phase and a defined medium as overlay.
On the Taxonomy of Mrazekidae: Resurrection of the Genus Bacillidium Janda, 192812
Authors: LARSSON J. I. RONNY
Published: May 2007

ABSTRACT. This paper reviews the taxonomy of the microsporidia of the family Mrazekidae Léger & Hesse, 1922, based on reexamination of slides in the collection of Prof. O. Jirovec, Prague, and discusses the available type material of Mrazekia argoisi and Bacillidium criodrili. Mrazekia argoisi differs prominently from the other species, and the genus Mrazekia is restricted to this species. The aberrant cytology and development exclude the species from the phylum Microspora. The genus Bacillidium is resurrected for the type species B. criodrili and for four other species. The genus Jirovecia is retained, and five species are transferred to this genus. A new family is erected for Bacillidium and Jirovecia. As B. criodrili does not exhibit octosporoblastic, pansporoblastic sporogony, the recent taxonomic treatment of the genus Bacillidium by Issi is rejected. Mrazekia jiroveci Sprague, 1977, the new name for B. limnodrili Jirovec, 1936, is rejected.
Pleurotricha indica n. sp., a New Hypotrich Ciliate from the Indian Subcontinent1
Authors: AMMERMANN DIETER , SAPRA GULSHAN R. , SCHLEGEL MARTIN
Published: May 2007

A new species, Pleurotricha indica n. sp., is described, characterized by an average size of 220 × 119 μm, a firm and inflexible body, six rows of dorsal kineties, one left and two right rows of marginal cirri, and an “Oxytricha‐like” pattern of ventral cirri. The parts of the macronucleus are variable in shape and number. The comparison with other members of the genus shows that P. indica differs from other congeneric species in the combination of these characters.
Constitutive and Induced Excretion of Polypeptides in Tetrahymena thermophila1
Authors: SUHR‐JESSEN PETER
Published: May 2007

Polypeptides normally excreted to growth or starvation media were revealed using O'Farrell gel‐electrophoresis and silver‐staining. The major polypeptides detected in conditioned media were either constitutive, growth specific, starvation specific, or high‐Tris specific. The majority of the excreted polypeptides could be released from the cells by a hypo‐osomotic shock, possibly resulting in membrane leakage, but also mucocyst and/or plasma membrane‐associated polypeptides were detected in the conditioned media.
Differential Protein Synthesis During the Life Cycle of the Protozoan Parasite Trypanosoma brucei1
Authors: SHAPIRO STUART Z. , KIMMEL BRUCE E.
Published: May 2007

Two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis has been used to analyze changes in protein content and protein synthesis in three stages of the life cycle of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei. The stages examined were slender and stumpy mammalian bloodstream forms and procyclic forms, which are analogous to the tsetse fly midgut stage. Two‐dimensional gels of 35S‐methionine‐labeled proteins were examined by autoradiography to analyze newly synthesized protein, and gels were stained with ammoniacal silver to analyze proteins present. Several stage‐specific molecules were noted. The most obvious was the variant surface glycoprotein, which was only present in bloodstream forms. Some other proteins were also bloodstream form specific; they had molecular weights of 120,000 and 38,000. Proteins of 52,000, 46,000, 25–30,000, and 16,000 daltons were present both in stumpy forms and procyclics but not in slender‐form trypanosomes. Several proteins (molecular weights of 50–70,000, 43,000, 40,000, 26–24,000, 20–25,000, and 15,000) were present only in one of the three stages. One protein, a molecule of about 18,000 daltons present in both slender and stumpy parasites, did not appear to be synthesized in the stumpy stage. In vitro translation products of mRNA purified from the three stages were also examined. The abundance of mRNA encoding a protein of about 40,000 daltons appeared to be greater in slender than in stumpy parasites although the stumpy forms contained more of the protein and synthesized it at a higher rate.
Localization of Acid Phosphatase Activity in Giardia lamblia and Giardia muris Trophozoites1
Authors: FEELY DENNIS E. , DYER JOHN K.
Published: May 2007

Numerous membrane‐bounded vacuoles are found adjacent to the plasma membrane of the pathogenic protozoan Giardia lamblia. The function of these vacuoles has been discussed by several authors. Approximately 100–400 nm in diameter with a core of low electron density, they have been suggested to be mitochondria, mucocysts, lysosomes, and endocytotic vacuoles. Enzyme cytochemical localization for acid phosphatase activity using cerium as a capturing agent demonstrates reaction product in these vacuoles as well as in the endoplasmic reticulum and nuclear envelope cisternae. The distribution of reaction product suggests the vacuoles are lysosome‐like; however, their function and development remain in question.
Growth of Paramecium tetraurelia in Bacterized, Monoxenic Cultures1
Authors: ENRIGHT WILLIAM J. , HENNESSEY TODD M.
Published: May 2007

Wild type and mutant Paramecium tetraurelia were grown in monoxenic cultures by first growing Enterobacter aerogenes on a defined medium and then adding the Paramecium to the stationary phase bacterial culture. The bacterial growth was proportional to the concentration of the carbon source (citrate), and the Paramecium growth was dependent upon both the bacterial density and the starting density of Paramecium. The behavior, electrophysiological properties, ciliary lipid composition, and growth characteristics were similar to the commonly used bacterized medium (Cerophyl) except that 5–10 times greater Paramecium yields were reliably obtained.
Oxidation of Fatty Acids by Leishmania braziliensis panamensis1
Authors: BLUM J. J.
Published: May 2007

Heating cultures of Leishmania braziliensis panamensis (grown at 26°C) to 34°C for 1.5–12 h transformed the cells to an ellipsoidally shaped form. The heat treatment caused an increase in the rate of oxidation of both medium and long chain fatty acids but decreased the rate of oxidation of [1‐14C]glucose. The rate of fatty acid oxidation continued to increase for times as long as 20 h after returning the cultures to 26°C. In both the promastigote and heat‐induced ellipsoidal forms, the ratio of 14CO2 release from [1‐14C]laurate to that from [12‐14C]laurate was generally larger than four, whereas this ratio from [1‐14C]oleate relative to [10‐14C]oleate was approximately two. These data show that metabolic and morphological differentiation begin after a short heat treatment and that some metabolic changes may continue even after the reverse transformation is initiated. The data also suggest that either the ω‐terminal portion of the fatty acids is not completely oxidized to acetyl CoA and/or that there are two functional fatty acid oxidation pathways in Leishmania.
Oxidation of Glucose, Ribose, Alanine, and Glutamate by Leishmania braziliensis panamensis1
Authors: KEEGAN FRANK P. , SANSONE LISA , BLUM J. J.
Published: May 2007

The metabolism of [1‐14C]‐ and [6‐14C]glucose, [1‐14]ribose, [1‐14C]‐ and [U‐14C]alanine, and [1‐14C]‐ and [5‐14C]glutamate by the promastigotes of Leishmania braziliensis panamensis was investigated in cells resuspended in Hanks' balanced salt solution supplemented with ribose, alanine, or glutamate. The ratio of 14CO2 produced from [1‐14C]glucose to that from [6‐14C]glucose ranged from about two to six, indicating appreciable carbon flow through the pentose phosphate pathway. A functional pentose phosphate pathway was further demonstrated by the production of 14CO2 from [1‐14C]ribose although the rate of ribose oxidation was much lower than the rate of glucose oxidation. The rate of 14CO2 production from [1‐14C]glucose was almost linear with time of incubation, whereas that of [6‐14C]glucose accelerated, consistent with an increasing rate of flux through the Embden‐Meyerhof pathway during incubation. Increasing the assay temperature from 26°C to 34°C had no appreciable effect on the rates or time courses of oxidation of either [1‐14C]‐ or [6‐14C]glucose or of [1‐14C]ribose. Both alanine and glutamate were oxidized by L. b. panamensis, and at rates comparable to or appreciably greater than the rate of oxidation of glucose. The ratios of 14CO2 produced from [1‐14C]‐ to [U‐14C]alanine and from [1‐14C]‐ to [5‐14C]glutamate indicated that these compounds were metabolized via a functioning tricarboxylic acid cycle and that most of the label that entered the tricarboxylic acid cycle was oxidized to carbon dioxide. Heating the cultures for 6 or 12 h at 34°C, which converts the promastigotes into an ellipsoidally shaped intermediate form, decreased the rates of oxidation of glucose, alanine, and glutamate. The oxidation of glutamate decreased by about 50% and 70% after a 6‐h or 12‐h heat treatment, respectively. Returning the heated cultures to 26°C initiated a reversion to the promastigote form and recovery of the rate of glucose oxidation, but glutamate oxidation did not return to control levels by 19 h at 26°C.
Light and Electron Microscopical Observations on the Stomatogenesis of the Ciliate Coleps amphacanthus Ehrenberg, 1833
Authors: HUTTENLAUCH IRM , BARDELE CHRISTIAN F.
Published: May 2007

Light and electron microscopical observations on the stomatogenesis of Coleps amphacanthus Ehrenberg, 1833, show that this “gymno”‐stome ciliate has a well developed oral ciliature made of 19–23 “paroral dikinetids” and three “adoral organelles.” These structures were previously known as “circumoral ciliature” and “dorsal brosse,” and it was thought that they originated from the distal ends of all the 22–26 somatic kineties. Contrary to this view, only four stomatogenic kineties (K1, Kn, Kn‐1, and Kn‐2) are involved in stomatogenesis of the opisthe. All paroral dikinetids arise from one single kinetofragment (KF1) to the right of the oral anlage while the adoral organelles originate from the three left kinetofragments (KFn, KFn‐1, and KFn‐2). In particular, the future paroral dikinetids perform a complex morphogenetic movement that leads to a situation where the postciliary microtubules of the once posterior kinetosome of each oral dikinetid give rise to the cytopharyngeal microtubular ribbons. The postciliary origin of the cytopharyngeal ribbons which could only be detected by an EM study of stomatogenesis shows that the basket of Coleps belongs to the cyrtos‐type and not to the rhabdos‐type basket, where transverse microtubules accompany the basket‐forming nematodesmata. The taxonomic implications of these observations, which may lead to a revision of the systematic position of the genus Coleps, are discussed.
Effects of Iron‐, Manganese‐, or Magnesium‐Deficiency on the Growth and Morphology of Euglena gracilis1
Authors: HILT KENNETH L. , GORDON PHILIP R. , HEIN ANN , CAULFIELD JOHN P. , FALCHUK KENNETH H.
Published: May 2007

Iron‐, manganese‐, or magnesium‐deficiency has been induced in Euglena gracilis. Each arrests cell proliferation, decreases the intracellular content of the deficient metal, and increases that of several other metals. Light and electron microscopy of stationary phase cells reveal that Fe‐deficient (‐Fe) cells are similar in size and shape to control organisms. Magnesium‐deficient (‐Mg) cells, however, are larger, and approximately 14% are multilobed, containing 2 to 12 lobes of equal size emanating from a central region. Individual (‐Mg) cells and each lobe of multilobed cells contain a single nucleus. Manganese‐deficient (‐Mn) organisms are morphologically more heterogeneous than (‐Fe) or (‐Mg) cells. Most are spherical and larger than controls. Approximately 15% are multilobed but, unlike (‐Mg) cells, contain lobes of unequal size with either zero, one, or several nuclei present in each. Nuclei of (‐Mn) cells differ in size and shape from those of control, (‐Fe), or (‐Mg) cells. All three deficient cell types accumulate large quantities of paramylon. Other cytoplasmic structures, however, appear normal. Addition of Fe, Mn, or Mg to the respective deficient stationary phase cultures reverses growth arrest and restores normal morphology. The results suggest that Fe‐, Mn‐, and Mg‐deficiencies affect different stages of the E. gracilis cell cycle.
Ultrastructural Visualization of Lipids in Trypanosomatids1
Authors: SOARES MAURÍLIO JOSÉ , DE SOUZA MARCOS FARINA , DE SOUZA WANDERLEY
Published: May 2007

An imidazole‐buffered osmium tetroxide solution was used to visualize lipids at the ultrastructural level in the following members of the family Trypanosomatidae: Trypanosoma cruzi, T. dionisii, T. vespertilionis, T. rangeli, Crithidia deanei, C. fasciculata, C. oncopelti, and Blastocrithidia culicis. Electron‐dense material was seen in various lipid droplets found in all parasites and in the multivesicular structure of members of the sub‐genus Schizotrypanum. High contrast of some membranes, mainly those which enclose the mitochondrion, the nucleus, and the endoplasmic reticulum, was observed even in unstained sections. X‐ray microanalysis confirmed that the electron density of lipid droplets of B. culicis and membrane‐bounded dense granules of C. oncopelti was due to the presence of osmium.
Redescription of Paralagenophrys singularis (Kellicott) n. comb. (Ciliophora: Peritricha: Lagenophryidae)1
Authors: CLAMP JOHN C.
Published: May 2007

Lagenophrys singularis is removed from Lagenophrys and designated the type species of Paralagenophrys n. g. Compared to members of Lagenophrys, the oral area of P. singularis is radically distorted. Paralagenophrys apparently also lacks second‐type division, a special phase of sexual reproduction characteristic of Lagenophrys and associated with its adaptation to symbiotic life on crustaceans. Members of Lagenophrys are obligate ectocommensals of crustaceans. In contrast, P. singularis (Kellicott, 1887) n. comb. occurs most often on the leaves of aquatic vascular plants.
Polyamine Metabolism in Acanthamoeba: Polyamine Content and Synthesis of Ornithine, Putrescine, and Diaminopropane1
Authors: KIM BYEONG G. , SOBOTA ANDREZJ , BITONTI ALAN J. , McCANN PETER P. , BYERS THOMAS J.
Published: May 2007

Five polyamines which could be separated by high performance liquid chromatography were found in Acanthamoeba castellanii (strain Neff). These included in order of decreasing abundance: 1,3‐diaminopropane, spermidine, spermine, norspermidine, and putrescine. Only diaminopropane and norspermidine had been found previously. Spermine was present in cultures grown in broth, but not in defined medium. Radioactive substrates were used to establish that putrescine was synthesized by decarboxylation of ornithine, ornithine was synthesized from arginine or citrulline, and diaminopropane was synthesized from spermidine. The presence of ornithine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.17), arginase (EC 3.5.3.1), and urease (EC 3.5.1.5) and the absence of arginine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.19) were established. A scheme for polyamine biosynthesis in A. castellanii is proposed.
Further Characterization of Carbohydrate‐Containing Fractions from Trypanosoma mega1
Authors: SANTOS R. L. DOS , GORIN P. A. J. , BARRETO‐BERGTER E.
Published: May 2007

Epimastigotes of Trypanosoma mega were submitted to phenol extraction after lipid extraction, providing an extract whose carbohydrate portion (30%) contained fucose, ribose, xylose, mannose, galactose, and glucose. The purified fraction recovered in the void volume of Bio Gel P‐150 gave on SDS‐PAGE a band of Mr∼ 55,000 positive for protein and carbohydrate and a diffuse band strongly positive for carbohydrate and lipids (Mr∼ 22,000). The structural analysis of the carbohydrate moiety of this fraction by GLC‐MS indicated the presence of nonreducing end groups of fucopyranose, mannopyranose, and galactopyranose, 3‐O‐ and 4‐O‐substituted and 2,3‐ and 2,4‐di‐O‐substituted galactopyranosyl units. Extraction of this fraction with chloroform/methanol/water provided a soluble fraction that on SDS‐PAGE gave rise to a carbohydrate and lipid‐positive band (Mr∼ 22,000). This fraction contained fucose, mannose, and galactose (1:1:1). As main branch points, 2,3‐di‐O‐substituted galactopyranosyl units were present according to methylation data. Similar proportions of fucopyranosyl, mannopyranosyl, galactopyranosyl end units were present. The presence of lipids in this fraction was confirmed by methanolysis following isolation and characterization of the corresponding fatty acid methyl esters. Palmitic acid (16:0) and an 18:1 fatty acid were the predominant fatty acids.
Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ciliophora) Exit from Gill Epithelium1
Authors: EWING MARGARET S. , KOCAN KATHERINE M.
Published: May 2007

The first change in the sequence of morphological events occurring as fully developed Ichthyophthirius multifiliis trophonts spontaneously left gill epithelium or as younger trophonts departed, following experimentally induced death of the fish, was the separation of parasites from overlying host cells. Discharge of contractile vacuoles may have played a role in this process. Spaces then appeared between host cells, and individual epithelial cells became vacuolated. Finally, the epithelium ruptured and the parasites swam free. In induced exit after three days residence in the host, departure of the trophont was evident only after autolysis of epithelium had occurred. Induced departure of trophonts after four days residence was more rapid, suggesting an active role for the parasite in exit. Changes in parasite and epithelium observed in induced exit were similar to those in spontaneous departure after five days residence.
Antigenic Relationship Between Plasmodium falciparum and Babesia bovis: Reactivity with Antibodies to Culture‐Derived Soluble Exoantigens1
Authors: JAMES MARK A. , MONTENEGRO‐JAMES SONIA , FAJFAR‐WHETSTONE CAROL , MONTEALEGRE FEDERICO , ERICKSON JAMES , RISTIC MIODRAG
Published: May 2007

Antigenic similarities between Plasmodium and Babesia parasites of the phylum Apicomplexa have been previously demonstrated primarily by the serological cross reactivity observed in the indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test. We have now studied the antigenic relationship between the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, and the hemoparasitic agent of cattle, Babesia bovis, using rabbit monospecific antibodies produced against individual culture‐derived P. falciparum polypeptides and bovine polyspecific antibodies to B. bovis exoantigens. These respective antibodies were found to be distinctly cross reactive in the IFA test using infected erythrocytes (squirrel monkey—P. falciparum; bovine—B. bovis) as antigen substrates. Immunofluorescence was shown to be highly specific for parasite surfaces. Additionally, the degree of reactivity with soluble exoantigens contained in Plasmodium and Babesia culture supernatants was monitored by a two‐site enzyme immunoassay employing the cross‐reactive antibodies. Further evidence for antigenic cross reactivity between P. falciparum and B. bovis parasites was shown with the in vitro inhibition assay. Antibodies to P. falciparum and B. bovis were found to be highly inhibitory for the in vitro growth of P. falciparum in human erythrocytes.
Five New Species of Lagenophrys (Ciliophora, Peritricha, Lagenophryidae) from the United States with Observations on Their Developmental Stages1
Authors: CLAMP JOHN C.
Published: May 2007

Five species of the loricate genus Lagenophrys were found on freshwater hosts and are described for the first time. Lagenophrys dennisi n. sp., L. incompta n. sp., and L. oregonensis n. sp. are ectosymbionts of astacid crayfish. Lagenophrys foxi n. sp and L. missouriensis n. sp. are ectosymbionts of gammarid amphipods. All five species appear to occur only m North America. Protargol preparations of the five species reveal that the peristomial myoneme is much broader and more extensive in telotrochs and metamorphosing individuals than in adults. Darkly staining bands appearing to be somatic myonemes were also seen underneath the surface of the body and in the center of the body of telotrochs and metamorphosing individuals. The telotroch of Lagenophrys is so different from the adult that it constitutes a true larval form rather than a simple dispersal stage. Structural parallels between the telotroch of Lagenophrys and mobiline peritrichs suggest the hypothesis that mobilines evolved from the telotroch of a sessiline pentrich which had first evolved into a true larval form.
Enzymes of Ornithine‐Arginine Metabolism in Trypanosomatids of the Genus Phytomonas1
Authors: Camargo E. Plessmann , Silva Solange , Roitman Isaac , De Souza Wanderley , Jankevicius J. Vitor , Dollet Michel
Published: May 2007

Trypanosomatids recently isolated from the plants Euphorbia pinea, E. characias, E. hyssopifolia, Manihoi esculenta (cassava) and Lycopersicon sp. (tomato) plus the McGhee‐Postell isolate of Phytomonas davidi have been examined for the presence of enzymes of ornithine‐arginine metabolism. Arginase (EC 3.5.3.1) was not detected in the flagellates examined whereas arginine deiminase (EC 3.5.3.6) and citrullinehydrolase (EC 3.5.1.20) were present in all organisms. Phytomonas davidi and the isolate from E. hyssopifolia, besides these enzymes, also had ornithine carbamoyltransferase (EC 2.1.3.3). The enzymic constitution of these flagellates is compared from a taxonomic standpoint to that of previously studied trypanosomatids.
Electrophoretic Analysis of Isoenzymes in the Identification of Trypanosomatids of the Genus Phytomonas1
Authors: Vainstein Marilene Henning , Da Silva João Batista Tavares , De Lima Vilneide M. Q. Gonçalves , Roitman Isaac , De Souza Wanderley , Dollet Michel , Camargo E. Plessmann
Published: May 2007

Five strains of trypanosomatids of the genus Phytomonas, isolated from different species of Euphorbia {Euphorbia heterophylla, E. characias, E. pinea, E. hyssopifolia) and from Manihot escutenta, were cultured and compared through the electrophoretic mobility of isoenzymes of six enzymes: aspartate aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.1), alanine aminotransferase (EC 2.6.1.2), phosphoglucomutase (EC 2.7.5.1), glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.49), glucosephosphate isomerase (EC 5.3.1.9), and malate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.40). The strains could be distinguished from one another by their respective isoenzyme profiles.
Sarcocystis in Muscles of Raccoons (Procyon lotor L.)1
Authors: Kirkpatrick C. E. , Hamir A. N. , Dubey J. P. , Rupprecht C. E.
Published: May 2007

Sarcocysts of Sarcocystis sp. were found in 26 (50%) of 52 raccoons (Procyon lotor) from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Maryland. Although only 4 (7.7%) of 52 cardiac muscle specimens were found to contain sarcocysts, 25% to 36.5% of tongue, diaphragm, masseter muscle, and esophagus specimens were found infected. By light microscopy, sarcocyst walls were <3 μm thick and had no conspicuous projections; interior septa were indistinct. By transmission electron microscopy, sarcocyst walls had short (mean = 2.7 μm), villus‐like protrusions; thin septa were seen within the sarcocysts. The raccoon may be an intermediate host for a Sarcocystis sp. that completes its life cycle in an unidentified, wild carnivore.