bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibility of Kenyan Wheat Varieties to Head Blight, Fungal Invasion and Deoxynivalenol Accumulation Inoculated with Fusarium graminearum
Authors: MUTHOMI J. W. , OERKE E.‐C. , DEHNE H.‐W. , MUTITU E. W.
Published: March 2003

Fifteen wheat varieties commercially grown in Kenya were tested for their susceptibility to head blight and mycotoxin accumulation after inoculation with Fusarium graminearum in pot experiments. The strains of the pathogen used had been isolated from wheat collected in different growing areas of Kenya. Head blight susceptibility was assessed as the percentage of spikelets bleached and area under disease progress curve; kernel colonization by fungal mycelium was determined as ergosterol content. All varieties were found to be moderately to highly susceptible. However, the varieties differed in head blight susceptibility (29–68% of spikelets bleached; mean 54%), fungal colonization (67–187 μg/g ergosterol content; mean 111 μg/g) and the resulting mycotoxin contamination [deoxynivalenol (DON) 5–31 μg/g; mean 13.5 μg/g]. Grain weight reductions due to head blight ranged from 23 to 57% (mean 44%). The varieties could be therefore divided into partially resistant and highly susceptible genotypes. The kernels of highly susceptible varieties had higher mycotoxin and ergosterol contents. However, the kernels of some varieties contained more fungal mycelium (ergosterol) without the corresponding high amounts of DON, suggesting that they possess some resistance to DON accumulation. Less susceptible varieties showed resistance to fungal spread, as indicated by a slow disease development and lower content of fungal biomass.
Mating type, Metalaxyl Resistance and Aggressiveness of Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary in Morocco
Authors: HAMMI A. , MSATEF Y. , BENNANI A. , ISMAILI A. E. L. , SERRHINI M. N.
Published: March 2003

Ninety‐nine isolates of Phytophthora infestans collected from different locations in Morocco were characterized using mating type (A1 and A2) and metalaxyl resistance markers (MS, metalaxyl sensitive, MRS, reduced metalaxyl sensitive, MMR, moderately metalaxyl resistant, MR, metalaxyl resistant). Aggressiveness of these isolates was assessed on detached potato and on detached tomato leaves by determining the lesion size and the sporulation capacity. Characterization of these isolates revealed the following distribution: 29% of the isolates were A1‐MS, 5% were A1‐MRS, 5% were A1‐MMR, 2% were A1‐MR, 20% were A2‐MS, 10% were A2‐MRS, 21% were A2‐MMR and 8% were A2‐MR. Significant differences in aggressiveness were found among isolates. A tendency for MMR and MR isolates to be more aggressive (larger lesions and higher sporulation capacity) than the MRS and MS isolates was found. Potato isolates were more aggressive on potato than tomato isolates, whereas both potato and tomato isolates were comparable concerning their aggressiveness on tomato. This study demonstrates a heterogeneity of Moroccan P. infestans populations.
Partial Characterization of a Potyvirus Infecting African Oil Palm in South America
Authors: MORALES F. J. , LOZANO I. , SEDANO R. , CASTAÑO M. , ARROYAVE J.
Published: March 2003

A virus with filamentous particles approximately 750 nm long was isolated from African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) with `chlorotic ring' leaf symptoms in south‐western Colombia. The virus was mechanically transmitted from oil palm to brachiaria, maize, sorghum, and sugarcane (Gramineae) but not to any of 20 species in other plant families tested. In African oil palm, the virus is associated with cytoplasmic inclusions (pinwheels, laminated aggregates and scrolls) characteristic of subdivision III of the Potyviridae. Partial sequences obtained for fragments of the large nuclear inclusion (NIb) and capsid (CP) proteins, and for the entire 3′ untranslated region (UTR), showed amino acid sequence identities of 91.8% (NIb) and 95% (CP), and a nucleotide sequence identity of 90.8% (UTR) with strains of Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV). We thus conclude that the virus associated with the `chlorotic ring' of African oil palm in Colombia is a species of the Potyvirus genus and, more specifically, a strain of SCMV.
Puccinia romagnoliana Marie & Sacc. – a Potential Bioherbicide Agent for Biocontrol of Purple Nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) in Mulberry
Authors: GUPTA V. P. , KUMAR VINEET , MISHRA R. K. , THIAGARAJAN V. , DATTA R. K.
Published: March 2003

The ingress, infection process and disease development of Puccinia romagnoliana Marie & Sacc. on purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) and its cross‐infectivity to an economically important sericultural crop, mulberry (Morus alba L.) were investigated under a scanning electron microscope. The potential of P. romagnoliana as a biocontrol agent was also evaluated for the control of purple nutsedge under greenhouse conditions. Uredinia of P. romagnoliana were paraphysate that bore numerous pedicellate urediniospores, having echinulate spore wall. Urediniospores had 2–3 subequatorial germpores, which gave rise to germtubes. Germtubes were observed to orientate toward stomata and terminated in appressoria, through which infection pegs were formed that penetrated the leaf. Symptoms developed on leaves 10 days after inoculation. P. romagnoliana was highly pathogenic to purple nutsedge, which, when disease was severe, caused death of the shoots and reduced both number and vigour of the tubers. P. romagnoliana did not infect the main commercial crop, mulberry. Thus, the present study demonstrated the potential ofP. romagnoliana as a bioherbicide to control the purple nutsedge in mulberry fields.
Evaluation of Tobacco Cultivars for Resistance to Races of Phytophthora nicotianae in South Africa
Authors: Van Jaarsveld E. , Wingfield M. J. , Drenth A.
Published: March 2003

Black shank caused by Phytophthora nicotianae is a destructive root and stem disease of cultivated tobacco. P. nicotianae isolates associated with black shank in South Africa were selected in order to evaluate their aggressiveness, designate races of P. nicotianae and to determine which tobacco cultivars are resistant to them. Stem inoculations were conducted in the greenhouse using 32 P. nicotianae isolates from different tobacco growing regions in South Africa. The 32 P. nicotianae isolates differed significantly in levels of aggressiveness. Eight isolates were selected on the basis of geographical origin and virulence for race characterization using a set of differential tobacco cultivars. South African race 0 and race 1 isolates were used to evaluate black shank resistance of 11 commercially planted tobacco cultivars. Race 0 and 1 of P. nicotianae occurred in most of the tobacco growing regions. Commercially planted cultivars differed significantly in their resistance to race 0 and 1. Cultivars Vuma/3/46 and LK3/46 were highly resistant to both race 0 and 1 while cultivars LK33/60 and OD1 were highly resistant to race 0 but susceptible to race 1. Results of this study provide valuable information on cultivar resistance and selection of P.nicotianae isolates for future breeding programs in South Africa.
Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on White Mould (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum) on Bean and Cucumber
Authors: Al‐Masri M. I. , Ali‐Shtayeh M. S. , Elad Y. , Sharon A. , Tudzynski P. , Barakat R.
Published: March 2003

The effect of plant growth regulators on thepathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (white mould) was investigated under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Naphthalene acetic acid inhibits the fungus in vitro and in vivo. It reduced white mould disease severity on bean and cucumber plants at concentrations of 200–400 μg/ml. Gibberellic acid (GA3) promoted both mycelium and white mould disease severity on plants at concentrations of 50–250 μg/ml. Methyl jasmonate (MeJa), and abscisic acid (ABA) decreased mycelium growth of S. sclerotiorum in vitro. MeJa decreased bean and cucumber white mould disease at concentrations of 75–250 μg/ml.ABA increased disease development on bean and cucumber plants at concentrations of 100–300 μg/ml.
Occurrence of Pythium spp. and Phytophthora spp. in Norwegian Greenhouses and their Pathogenicity on Cucumber Seedlings
Authors: Herrero M. L. , Hermansen A. , Elen O. N.
Published: March 2003

Samples of tomato, lettuce and cucumber submitted for diagnosis to the Plant Protection Centre at the Norwegian Crop Research Institute and samples of soil, water and cucumber collected from greenhouses employing hydroponic cultures were examined for the occurrence of Pythium spp. and Phytophthora spp. Two species of Phytophthora and 16 species of Pythium were identified. Phytophthora cryptogea was found on tomato and lettuce. Phytophthora nicotianae was found on tomato fruit. Phytophthora was not found on cucumbers. Pythium irregulare and Pythium group F were the two most commonly found Pythium species in hydroponically cultivated cucumbers. A pathogenicity test with 56 isolates was performed on cucumber seedlings. The most aggressive species were Pythium aphanidermatum, P. irregulare, Pythium paroecandrum and Pythium ultimum.
A Comparison of the Ultrastructure and Metabolic Response of the Skeletal Muscle of Horses Performing Intense Treadmill Exercise at 20 and 35°C
Authors: Gottlieb‐Vedi M. , Essén‐Gustavsson B. , Thornell L. ‐E. , Lindholm A.
Published: March 2003

The aim of this study was to determine whether the metabolic response and ultrastructure of muscle differed when horses performed intense exercise at different ambient temperatures. Four Standardbred geldings performed treadmill exercise, including an intensive trot of 2600 m on two different occasions, either at a high ambient temperature of 35°C or at a temperature of 20°C. The horses had a warm‐up period of 23.5 min of submaximal exercise, followed by 2 h of box rest before the intensive exercise. Muscle biopsy data of adenine nucleotides, creatine phosphate, lactate and glycogen concentrations measured before the warm‐up period were similar to those measured before the period of intensive exercise. Muscle lactate concentrations did not differ between the two temperatures, but increased significantly after intense exercise to levels of 34.7 ± 8.3 mmol/kg d.w. at 20°C, and to 41.7 ± 12.5 mmol/kg d.w. at 35°C. Muscle glycogen and creatine phosphate concentrations did not differ between the two ambient temperatures, but decreased significantly by 122 ± 82 mmol/kg d.w. and 25.2 ± 17.4 mmol/kg d.w., respectively, after the intensive exercise. No changes were seen in adenosine triphosphate, adenosine diphosphate and adenosine monophosphate concentrations. The muscle biopsies were investigated by electron microscopy, and showed no marked changes in the ultrastructure of the muscle due to exercise at the two different ambient temperatures. In conclusion, no marked changes were seen in the muscle metabolic response or in the ultrastructure of the muscle when the horses performed intense exercise at 35°C compared to 20°C.
Age‐related Morphometry of Equine Incisors
Authors: Muylle S. , Simoens P. , Lauwers H.
Published: March 2003

In the present study the age‐related morphological characteristics of 948 equine incisors were investigated. After extraction, total incisival length and root length were measured at the vestibular side of the teeth. Equine incisors reach their maximal length 2–3 years after eruption. Notwithstanding severe occlusal wear, this maximal length is maintained during most of the horses’ life due to prolonged root formation. Root formation, at the rate of 2.5 mm per year, starts at the age of 5–6 years and continues until the age of 17. As the root of the incisor develops, its apical foramen narrows and changes position. In young horses the apical foramen is situated at the apex of the tooth, whereas in older individuals it is located at the mesial, distal, or lingual side of the tooth at a distance of 5–15 mm from the dental apex. In horses aged over 20 years apical foramina are still present. Radiographic imaging is a good method with which to obtain reliable information concerning the total incisival length and the size and position of the apical foramen.
The effect of flat horseshoes, raised heels and lowered heels on the biomechanics of the equine hoof assessed by finite element analysis (FEA)
Authors: Hinterhofer CH. , Stanek CH. , Haider H.
Published: March 2003

The biomechanical effects of lowering and raising the heels were studied using a finite element (FE) computer model of the equine hoof capsule consisting of 18 635 finite elements. A static load of 3000 N was distributed to nodes of the inner hoof wall (80 %) according to the suspension of the coffin bone, 20 % loaded sole and frog. When loaded the FE hoof capsules showed the following deformations: the proximal dorsal wall moves back, the quarters flare to the side and sole and frog perform a downward movement. Stresses are high in the material surrounding the quarter nails, in the heels and in the proximal dorsal wall. Three types of horseshoes were simulated, a regular shoe with flat branches, a shoe with 5° raised heels and a shoe with 5° lowered heels. Raising the heels resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) low stress and displacement values. The lowered heels model calculated highest stress and displacement values and the results of the FE model with the regular horseshoe were found in between.
Plasma Amino Acid Pattern during the First Month of Life in Calves Fed the First Colostrum at 0–2 h or at 24–25 h after Birth
Authors: Zanker I. A. , Hammon H. M. , Blum J. W.
Published: March 2003

Calves are born with a mostly inadequate essential amino acid (EAA) status. Studies were designed to test the hypothesis that delaying the intake of the first colostrum for 24 h, besides its early effects, also has late effects on plasma free amino acid levels and on the protein status. There were marked and rapid elevations (within 2 h) of plasma levels of various amino acids, and especially of EAA, after the intake of the first colostrum, whereas changes after the intake of mature milk on day 28 of life were mostly absent or concentrations even decreased. The EAA and non‐essential amino acid (NEAA) status was rapidly normalized after intake of the first colostrum, but normal plasma levels of some amino acids were also reached during the first 24 h of life even when the first meal was withheld. Delaying colostrum intake had only transient effects on EAA and NEAA (except hydroxyproline), in contrast to its effects on plasma immunoglobulin G and total protein levels.
Cardiopulmonary Side‐Effects and Pharmacokinetics of an Emulsion of Propofol (Disoprivan®) in Comparison to Propofol Solved in Polysorbate 80 in Goats
Authors: Bettschart‐Wolfensberger R. , Semder A. , Alibhai H. , Demuth D. , Shojaee Aliabadi F. , Clarke K. W.
Published: March 2003

The aim of this study was to determine whether any pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic differences exist in goats between propofol in its currently licensed form (Disoprivan®) and a new 1 % solution of propofol (NSP) containing polysorbate 80. Nine goats received, on two different occasions in a randomized double‐blinded order, 4 mg/kg propofol intravenously (i.v.; Disoprivan® or NSP). To detect differences in cardiopulmonary effects and pharmacokinetics, the Wilcoxon signed rank test for paired data was used. In the NSP group the duration of initial apnoea was significantly longer, and 6 and 12 min after drug application pAO2 levels were significantly lower than in the Disoprivan® group. Mean cardiovascular parameters did not differ significantly between the groups but in the NSP group in six goats marked changes in blood pressure occurred: systolic arterial pressures fell to a minimum of 40–60 mmHg within the first 10 min. This was followed by a marked increase in blood pressure,with maxima exceeding 300 mmHg. In the NSP group the half‐life of propofol was significantly longer, the clearance rate was smaller and the areas under the drug concentration‐time curves were larger than in the Disoprivan® group. The cardiopulmonary side‐effects of NSP suggest that propofol dissolved in polysorbate 80 is not a suitable alternative to the current formulation of propofol.
Comparison of Blood Markers for the Longitudinal Monitoring of Osteoclastic Activity in the Pig
Authors: Weiler U. , Finsler S. , Wehr U. , Claus R.
Published: March 2003

In the present study the osteoclast activity was monitored longitudinally in porcine blood samples by measuring the tartrate‐resistant acidic phosphatase (TRAP) activity with several methods described for human samples. These methods differed in their specificity for bone‐specific TRAP and in their practicability. The validity of TRAP measurements was evaluated by comparison with the peripheral concentrations of the N‐terminal fragments of type I collagen with attached cross‐links (NTx), a highly bone‐specific parameter of bone collagen degradation, using a commercially available test kit developed for human samples. On selected days urine samples were collected for the determination of pyridinium cross‐links. The determinations of cross‐links in urine were normalized for the creatinine concentrations. However, they were not related to fluoride‐sensitive TRAP (fsTRAP) and NTx measurements in serum. The fsTRAP activity in serum, which is assumed to be highly bone‐specific, was highly correlated with the NTx concentrations in serum under different experimental conditions. As measurements in blood may be more easily standardized than those in urine, fsTRAP measurements in serum seem to be a highly practicable method to characterize osteoclastic activity in the pig.
Biochemical Intestinal Parameters in Pigs Reared Outdoors and Indoors, and in Germ‐free Pigs
Authors: COLLINDER E. , CARDONA M. E. , KOZAKOVA H. , NORIN E. , STERN S. , MIDTVEDT T.
Published: March 2003

Intestinal microbial functions reflect cross‐talk between a host and its flora, and external factors may influence these functions. The aim of this investigation was to follow the development of six biochemical microbial‐related functions of piglets, raised outdoors (OPs) or indoors (IPs), from birth to slaughter age. The following parameters (microflora‐associated characteristic; MAC) were consecutively measured at five different ages: production of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA), conversion of cholesterol to coprostanol and of bilirubin to urobilinogens, inactivation of trypsin, degradation of β‐aspartylglycine and of mucin. Additionally, four parameters (production of SCFA, conversion of cholesterol to coprostanol, inactivation of trypsin, degradation of β‐aspartylglycine) were investigated in faecal samples from germ‐free minipigs. The differences in MAC patterns between OPs and IPs were most pronounced at 20 days of age. Differences were found in the total amount of SCFAs, proportions of the acetic, propionic and butyric acids, conversion of bilirubin to urobilinogens, degradation of faecal tryptic activity and degradation of mucin. The values found in the minipigs were within the range of a germ‐free animal characteristic (GAC) pattern. Our results show that environmental factors influence the development of some intestinal microbial functions in pigs.
Varying Effects of Infections withMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeon the Weight Gain Recorded in Three Different Multisource Fattening Pig Herds
Authors: Rautiainen E. , Virtala A.‐M. , Wallgren P. , Saloniemi H.
Published: March 2003

Pigs in three specialized fattening herds were studied with respect to the effect of infection withMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeon weight gain. Individual pigs were weighed four times at 4‐week intervals during the fattening period and their daily weight gain over the rearing period was calculated. A blood sample was collected on each weighing occasion and analysed for the presence of antibodies toM. hyopneumoniae. The lungs of the principals were inspected at slaughter and the extent of pneumonic lesions was registered by a specially developed technique that has been proven to warrant a high degree of repeatability. No serum antibodies toM. hyopneumoniaewere detected in one of the herds, and no pneumonic lesions were recorded at slaughter in that herd. In the other two herds, the prevalence of pigs with serum antibodies toM. hyopneumoniaeincreased from 6 to 54 % and from 31 to 81 %, respectively, during the fattening period. The prevalence of pneumonic lesions at slaughter in these herds was higher the later the pigs seroconverted. On the other hand, the extension of the lung lesions tended to be higher among pigs that seroconverted early during the rearing period. Infections withM. hyopneumoniaeacquired early during the rearing, presumably strengthened by secondary infections and environmental errors, was found to decrease the daily weight gain of the pigs. However, even non‐complicatedM. hyopneumoniaeinfections acquired late in the fattening period were associated with reduced daily weight gain. That growth reduction was estimated to be at least 60 g (about 6 %) after adjusting for herd, pen, initial weight and sex.
Phenotypic Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Bovine Mastitis in Israeli Dairy Herds
Authors: Younis A. , Leitner G. , Heller D. E. , Samra Z. , Gadba R. , Lubashevsky G. , Chaffer M. , Yadlin N. , Winkler M. , Saran A.
Published: March 2003

A study of the characterization of the phenotypic patterns of Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from bovine subclinical mastitis in Israeli dairy herds and their correlation with the severity of the disease was undertaken. A total of 400 chronically S. aureus‐infected Israeli‐Holstein cows, from 15 dairy herds were included in this study. Based on the results of the biochemical reactions, of the anti‐biogram and phage typing, one major type of S. aureus was determined in each herd, its prevalence being between 54 and 100 % of the total isolates from that same herd. The majority of the isolates were found to be non‐haemolytic (62.7 %). The most common phage type was 3/A,3/C,55,71, which was predominant in five herds. In two herds none of the isolates (24) were typable by this set of phages. All isolates were susceptible to methicillin, erythromycin, cephalotin, norfloxacin, trimethoprin‐sulphamethoxazole and novobiocin. Most isolates were resistant to penicillin (96.6 %) and 52 % to oxytetracyclin. Differences in protein patterns between 50 and 36 kDa were found by one‐dimensional sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. No correlation between any combination of the phenotypic characteristics was found when correlation was done with milk yield and somatic cell count, corresponding to the 6 months before sampling. Otherwise, a positive correlation was found between type of haemolysis and the N‐acetyl‐β‐glucosaminidase (NAGase) values. In milk from quarters infected with the‐non‐haemolytic strains, the level of NAGase was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that from quarters infected with the haemolytic strains (69.7 and 105.9, respectively). However, the level of NAGase activity in the milk of the quarters infected with the non‐haemolytic strains was significantly higher (P < 0.05) when compared to the milk of quarters infected with coagulase‐negative staphylococci (43.5).
In Vitro and In Vivo Effects of an Immunomodulator Composed of Escherichia Coli Lipopolysaccharide and Propionibacterium granulosum‐Inactivated Cells in Pigs
Authors: Pappaterra Mendoza G. J. , De Antonio E. Mateu , Novell Badal M. E. , Castillo M. Martín , Fàbrega J. Casal , Puig J. Marca
Published: March 2003

The in vitro cytokine profiles of porcine alveolar macrophages and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were examined by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction or enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay after stimulation with the immunomodulatory compound INMD [lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Propionibacterium granulosum]. Expression of interleukin‐1 (IL‐1), IL‐6, IL‐12 and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), but not of IL‐10, was detected in INMD‐stimulated alveolar macrophages. Stimulated PBMC expressed IL‐1, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐10 and IL‐12 and secreted interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ). In all cases, the level of response was lower with INMD than with E. coli LPS alone, except for IFN‐γ, which was secreted in higher levels in INMD‐stimulated cells. In a second experiment, the ex vivo effect of the administration of INMD was evaluated using the product as a coadjuvant of a live attenuated Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV) vaccine. For this purpose, 85 8–10‐week‐old crossbred pigs were assigned to two groups (group A = 43 and group B = 42) and vaccinated with ADV. Group B received, simultaneously with the first dose of vaccine, an intramuscular dose of INMD equivalent to 20 µg/ml LPS and 250 µg/ml P. granulosum, while group A was given sterile saline solution as a placebo. At the time of vaccination, 97.6 % (42 of 43) and 95.2 % (40 of 42) of animals of groups A and B, respectively, had anti‐gB maternal antibodies. Of those animals, anti‐gE ADV antibodies were detected in 11.6 % of animals of group A (five of 43) and 19 % of group B (eight of 42). All animals were boosted with ADV vaccine alone 4 weeks later. Pigs to which INMD was administered together with the vaccine showed higher primary humoral responses than the vaccine‐alone animals (P < 0.005). However, after boosting significant differences disappeared (P > 0.05).
Studies of the Phenomenon of Host Adaptation in Salmonella
Authors: Steinbach G. , Lauterbach L. , Methner U.
Published: March 2003

To study the phenomenon of host adaptation in Salmonella, a mathematical model has been developed which permits a definition and experimental investigation of the specific interaction between the adapted serovar and the adequate host. After experimental infection using a mixture of equal parts of two Salmonella strains, A and B, the bacterial concentrations CA and CB were determined in the organs of the animals infected. If an animal of species a and an animal of species b are infected with the same mixture of strain A adapted to a and strain B adapted to b, an expression:

may be calculated which describes the influence of the specific serovar‐host interaction on the dynamics of the bacterial count. The variable Qab was determined using four Salmonella dublin, four Salmonellacholeraesuis and five Salmonella gallinarum/pullorum strains in a total of 63 pairs of different hosts (calf and pig, calf and chicken, or pig and chicken). On this basis, the following statements can be made. The epidemiologically defined host adaptation of Salmonellas is accompanied by a specific agent‐host interaction between the adapted serovar and adequate host. It promotes adherence and spreading of the agent in the adequate host. The effect was particularly expressed on day 3 post‐infection and could be detected both in the lumen of the anterior sections of the intestine and in the intestinal lymph nodes and the liver. In part, the host‐independent strain characteristics had a greater influence than the specific serovar‐host interaction on the dynamics of the bacterial count. Strains of non‐adapted serovars may thus result in a more intense colonization and invasion of the host than simultaneously administered bacteria of a serovar which is adapted to the respective host. The effects of a specific serovar‐host interaction on colonization of and spreading in the host should be considered only as a component which contributes to the phenomenon of host adaptation.
Cholesterol Oxidase and Resistance ofRhodococcus equito Peroxidative Stressin vitroin the Presence of Cholesterol
Authors: FUHRMANN H. , DOBELEIT G. , BELLAIR S. , GüCK T.
Published: March 2003

Rhodococcus equiis a well‐characterized bacterial pathogen which lyses cell membranes with the help of cholesterol oxidase (CO). Survival in macrophages is warranted by its ability to resist reactive radicals via catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Therefore, CO production in the absence or presence of 0.1 % cholesterol and sensitivity to exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide anion (SOA) were tested in seven strains ofR. equiin vitro. WhenR. equistrains were grown on agar plates with cholesterol, the bacterial growth [colony‐forming units (cfu)/plate] did not increase significantly in comparison with the growth on plates without cholesterol. The activity of CO increased, significantly for extracellular CO. In subsequent experiments,R. equistrains grown on cholesterol were stressed with H2O2or SOA so that approximately 10 % of cfu/plate survived. During stress induced by SOA, membrane CO and SOD activity increased significantly. Catalase activity increased 2‐fold with H2O2and 3‐fold with SOA exposure. These data suggest that the presence of cholesterol induces CO in bacteria grown on agar plates. Catalase, SOD and even membrane‐bound CO respond to reactive oxygen species.
Polychaete Communities of Greece: An Ecological Overview
Authors: Simboura Nomiki , Nicolaidou Artemis , Thessalou‐Legaki Maria
Published: March 2003

Abstract. Benthic samples were collected from 188 stations distributed over the Aegean and Ionian Seas (Greece, Eastern Mediterranean). Sampled substrata represented a variety of biotopes in soft bottoms with depths ranging from 3 to 380 m. The samples yielded a total of 398 species of polychaetes. Detrended Correspondence Analysis was applied to the whole set of data as well as to three bathymetric groups into which the data was divided. The results showed that in each bathymetric group, different factors determine the spatial distribution of species. Over the whole data set the type of substrata proved to be the major factor, whereas depth is the second most important. Other controlling factors were the substratum type and exposure to hydrodynamism in the shallow group, depth and substratum in the intermediate, and sediment granulometry and depth in the deep one. Diversity, species number and density tended to decrease with depth, while diversity and species number are favoured by coarse material in the sediment.
Ultrastructural Investigations of Eusperm­atogenesis and Euspermatozoa in Cerithidea obtusa (Lamarck 1822) (Caenogastropoda: Potamididae)
Authors: Suwanjarat Jintamas , Klepal Waltraud
Published: March 2003

Abstract. Species of the Potamididae occupy the full range of aquatic habitats and differ not only in the morphology and size of their shells but also in sperm morphology. In the past, several species were classified as Cerithiidae. Characters of the developing and the mature spermatozoa have been used to gain better insight into their taxonomy.

Cerithidea obtusa (Lamarck 1822) is the most dominant brackish water gastropod of the mangrove forests in Southern Thailand. Spermatological data are scarce in this species. In order to confirm its taxonomic position within the Potamididae, euspermatogenesis and euspermatozoa are examined by transmission electron microscopy. The morphological changes during spermiogenesis such as nucleus condensation, acrosome formation and development of the midpiece are described.
The green colour effect (GCE) of the killer strain Cryptococcus laurentii CBS 139 on Staib agar
Authors: Staib
Published: March 2003

Attention is drawn to the observation that the type strain Cryptococcus laurentii CBS 139, producing killer toxins (mycocins) directed at Cr. neoformans var. gattii, causes a green colour effect (GCE) on Staib agar (Guizotia abyssinica creatinine agar) in combination with an intense assimilation of creatinine. Five (9.6%) out of 52 strains of Cr. laurentii of various origin, showed a GCE and intense creatinine assimilation. Further research must show if all Cr. laurentii strains, characterized by a GCE similar to that of the strain CBS 139, are also capable of producing killer toxins. For further ecological and epidemiological research on strains producing killer toxins directed against species of the genus Cryptococcus, it is proposed to use Staib agar as differential culture medium indicating both colour effects, i.e. the GCE and the brown colour effect (BCE).
Isolation of Basidiobolus ranarum from ectotherms in Antwerp zoo with special reference to characterization of the isolated strains
Authors: Feio  , Bauwens  , Swinne  , De Meurichy
Published: March 2003

Ten Basidiobolus ranarum (=Basidiobolus haptosporus) strains, isolated from faeces of 102 different lower vertebrates (ectotherms) exhibited in Antwerp Zoo, or from their environment were studied for their temperature requirements, haemolysis and other enzyme activities in vitro. All isolates grew well at 25 and 37 °C. Three strains that produced undulated zygospore walls were haemolytic and positive for hyaluronidase. All the isolates produced urease, N‐acetyl‐β‐glucosaminidase, trypsin, lipase, lecithinase, gelatinase, collagenase and elastase, but failed to produce amylase, keratinase and β‐glucosidase. Three isolates failed to produce phosphatase. Only one strain failed to produce DNase. Aesculin was not hydrolysed. Chitinase activity was inconclusive. The results of this study illustrate the importance of exotic animals kept in temperate regions as carriers of potentially pathogenic organisms. In addition to the morphological characteristics, the identification can be based on enzymatic profiles. Enzymatic activity detection may help to explain the pathogenic mechanism of the fungus.
The influence of alcohol disinfection of nail samples in the laboratory
Authors: Willemsen R. , Breynaert J. , Lauwers S.
Published: March 2003

Samples of two hundred finger‐ and toenails cultured after a 70% alcohol disinfection for 2 min were compared with non‐disinfected samples cultured on a classical way. Alcohol treatment caused a significant decrease in isolation of yeast and moulds. Both organisms were cultivated at 25.5 and 31%, respectively, when not treated with alcohol, whereas the isolation rate dropped to 10 and 17.5%, respectively, after alcohol treatment. Isolation of dermatophytes decreased from 27.5 to 23.5% when alcohol disinfection was used. In conclusion, although alcohol disinfection of nail samples in the laboratory effectively decreases the isolation rate of unwanted contaminants on Sabouraud glucose agar without cycloheximide, it hampers the isolation of dermatophytes and pathogenic yeasts on cycloheximide‐containing media.
The frequency of tinea pedis in patients with tinea cruris in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Sadri  , Farnaghi  , Danesh‐Pazhooh Maryam , Shokoohi
Published: March 2003

The objective of this study is to define the frequency of tinea pedis in patients with tinea cruris. Sixty patients (46 males and 14 females) entered our study. Epidermophyton floccosum was the most frequently isolated fungus in tinea cruris. Four patients (6.4%) had concurrent tinea pedis and the only isolate from the foot was Trichophyton mentagrophytes. In three of them, the corresponding dermatophyte in the groin was E. floccosum.
Case Reports. Disseminated cryptococcoses without cryptococcal antigen detection
Authors: Tintelnot Kathrin , Adler  , Bergmann  , Schönherr  , Seibold
Published: March 2003

During the last decade cryptococcoses were most frequently diagnosed in AIDS patients, where serologically high amounts of glucoronoxylomannan (GXM) were detectable. Disseminated cryptococcoses without cryptococcal antigen detection is unusual. Between August and October 1998 disseminated cryptococcoses were diagnosed in three patients consecutively although cryptococcal antigen was not detectable. Only one of the patients was HIV infected.
Microsporum gypseum complex in Madras, India
Authors: Ranganathan  , Balajee
Published: March 2003

In Madras, India, 312 soil samples were collected from different habitats and screened for the presence of keratinophilic fungi especially those belonging to the Microsporum gypseum complex.
The incidence of opportunistic fungi in patients suspected of tuberculosis
Authors: Chadeganipour M. , Shadzi S. , Dehghan P. , Bijary J.
Published: March 2003

The incidence of opportunistic fungi in bronchoalveolar lavage specimens from patients suspected of tuberculosis in Isfahan, Iran, was determined. From 200 patients 36 yeasts (18%) and seven filamentous fungi (3.5%) were isolated. Out of 44 patients who had fungal infections, 12 cases were affected with definite tuberculosis.
Review of comparative studies between conventional and liposomal amphotericin B (Ambisome®) in neutropenic patients with fever of unknown origin and patients with systemic mycosis
Authors: Blau I. W. , Fauser A. A.
Published: March 2003

Fungal infections are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Treatment with amphotericin B is the main therapeutic approach. However, this treatment is limited by the substantial toxicity. We present the data of the first randomized prospective comparative trial in adults (134 patients with fever of unknown origin) with conventional amphotericin B and a liposomal formulation of amphotericin B (AmBisome®, published in 1997 by Prentice et al. (Br. J. Haematol. 98, 711–718) and the data of adults with documented fungal infections (59 patients), treated in this trial. Patients received either conventional amphotericin B 1 mg kg−1 per day, liposomal amphotericin B 1 mg kg−1 per day or liposomal amphotericin B 3 mg kg−1 per day. Patients were entered if they had fever of unknown origin (FUO), defined as temperature of 38 °C or more, not responding to 96 h of systemic broad‐spectrum antibiotic treatment, and neutropenia (<0.5×109 l−1). Efficacy of treatment was assessed, with success defined as resolution of fever for three consecutive days (<38 °C) in the group of patients with FUO and the freedom of clinical signs and/or the elimination of fungus in the group of patients with documented fungal infections. The safety of treatment and renal and hepatic toxicity of liposomal and conventional amphotericin B were compared. No statistically significant difference was found in the treatment efficacy in the three study arms. However, there is a tendency of better treatment results in the two groups of patients, who received liposomal amphotericin B. Thirty‐five per cent of patients with documented fungal infections and 46% of patients with FUO responded to amphotericin B. In the patients group, that received 1 mg kg−1 liposomal amphotericin B it was 63 and 49%, in the group of patients that received 3 mg kg−1 liposomal amphotericin B it was 47 and 64%. Evidence of toxicity due to amphotericin B was seen in 50 patients (83%), toxicity due to liposomal amphotericin B, 1 mg kg−1, was seen in 35 patients (50%), and due to liposomal amphotericin B 3 mg kg−1 in 34 patients (54%). This was a statistically significant difference (P=0.001). It was concluded that liposomal amphotericin B was safer than conventional amphotericin B, but both formulations are equivalent in treatment efficacy. The prophylactic use of amphotericin B in these immunocompromised patients is discussed.
Trends in species causing fungaemia in a tertiary care medical centre over 12 years
Authors: Malani Preeti N. , Bradley Suzanne F. , Little Rhonda S. , Kauffman Carol A.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  Trends in the species of yeast causing fungaemia over a 12‐year period at a large tertiary care medical centre were reviewed. A total of 966 unique episodes of fungaemia occurred in 898 patients. There was an overall trend toward fewer fungaemic episodes due to Candida albicans and more due to Candida glabrata and Candida parapsilosis. However, C. albicans remained the predominant species causing fungaemia, and the proportion due to other species varied from year to year. Candida glabrata was disproportionately isolated from older adults, whereas C. parapsilosis was common among neonates and infants. The trends of increasing isolation of C. glabrata and decreasing isolation of C. albicans were associated with increasing usage of fluconazole, but changes in the proportion of fungaemias due to other species appeared to have no association with fluconazole usage.
Aspergillus fumigatus– virulence and opportunism?
Authors: Weig M. , Reichard U. , Groß U.
Published: March 2003

Aspergillus fumigatus– Virulenz und Opportunismus?

The Interdisciplinary Forum on Aspergillosis, organized by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Hygiene und Mikrobiologie (DGHM) section, Eucaryotic Pathogens, and the Deutschsprachige Mykologische Gesellschaft (DmykG), was held at the Georg‐August‐University of Göttingen, Germany, 7–8 April 2000.
Case Report. Tinea corporis due to Microsporum canis in a professional cyclist
Authors: Gorani A. , Schiera A. , Oriani A. , Barbareschi M.
Published: March 2003

Summary. We report the case of a 20‐year‐old man, a professional cyclist, with multiple scaling plaques on his limbs that had been present for 40 days. Our case of tinea corporis presented some peculiarities related to the aetiological agent Microsporum canis and also its mode of transmission.
Differentiation of Malassezia furfur and Malassezia sympodialis by glycine utilization
Authors: Murai T. , Nakamura Y. , Kano R. , Watanabe S. , Hasegawa A.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  The genus Malassezia has been revised to include six lipophilic species and one nonlipophilic species. These Malassezia species have been investigated to differentiate their morphological and physiological characteristics. However, assimilation of amino acids as a nitrogen source by these species was not well elucidated. In the present study, isolates of Malassezia species were examined with a glycine medium (containing 7–266 mmol glycine, 7.4 mmol KH2PO4, 4.1 mmol MgSO47H2O, 29.6 mmol thiamine, 0.5% Tween‐80 and 2% agar) and a modified Dixon glycine medium (0.6% peptone, 3.6% malt extract, 2% ox‐bile, 1% Tween‐40, 0.2% glycerol, 0.2% oleic acid, 7 mmol glycine and 2% agar). All M. furfur isolates developed on the glycine medium, assimilating glycine at concentrations of at least 7 mmol l−1. However, the other six Malassezia species were unable to grow on the glycine medium. Also, many colonies of M. furfur grew rapidly, within 2–3 days on the modified Dixon glycine medium, although the other six species showed slow and poor development. From these results, it was suggested that M. furfur might be able to utilize glycine as a single nitrogen source, which the other Malassezia species could not. Therefore, glycine medium was recommended for the differentiation of M. furfur from other species of Malassezia.
In vitro susceptibilities of cerebrospinal fluid isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans collected during a ten‐year period against fluconazole, voriconazole and posaconazole (SCH56592)
Authors: Yildiran S. T. , Fothergill A. W. , Sutton D. A. , Rinaldi M. G.
Published: March 2003

Summary. We investigated the in vitro susceptibilities of 213 cerebrospinal fluid isolates of Cryptococcus neoformans isolated from 192 patients through a 10‐year period, 1990–99, against fluconazole, voriconazole and posaconazole (SCH56592) by using the NCCLS (National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards) macrodilution method, M27‐A. The overall MICs50 and MICs90 of fluconazole, voriconazole and posaconazole were found to be 2 and 8 µg ml−1, ≤0.125 µg ml−1 (both), and ≤0.015 and 0.06 µg ml−1, respectively. The MIC ranges, MICs50, and MICs90 of three triazoles were also determined according to the defined year category (1990–94, 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998–99). The MICs50 and MICs90 of each triazole remained almost unchanged and did not exhibit any sign of an upward shift during a decade (1990–99). However, a tendency for development of possible cross‐resistance between the three triazoles was observed only in 1996. Meanwhile, the individual relapsing isolates (n:21) from 20 patients exhibited same, higher or, suprisingly, lower MICs, particularly against fluconazole and posaconazole.

Zusammenfassung. Wir haben die In Vitro‐ Empfindlichkeit von 213 Cryptococcus neoformans‐Liquorisolaten von 192 Patienten der Zehnjahresperiode 1990–99, für Fluconazol, Voriconazol und Posaconazol (SCH56592) mit der NCCLS‐Makrodilutionsmethode M27‐A AB untersucht. Die MICs50 und MICs90 für Fluconazol, Voriconazol und Posaconazol wurden zu 2 und 8 µg ml−1, 0.125 µg ml−1 (beide), und ≤0.015 und 0.06 µg ml−1 bestimmt. Die MICs50 und MICs90 der drei Triazole wurden auch gesondert in den Jahreskategorien 1990–94, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998–99 bestimmt. Die Werte der drei Triazole sind während dieses Jahrzehnts (1990–99) fast unverändert geblieben Eine Tendenz zur Entwicklung möglicher Kreuzresistenzen zwischen den drei Triazolen wurde nur 1996 beobachtet. 21 Isolate von 20 Rückfallpatienten zeigen gleiche, höhere oder auch niedrigere MICs, besonders gegen Fluconazol und Posaconazol.
Evaluation of different commercial ELISA methods for the serodiagnosis of systemic candidosis
Authors: Persat F. , Topenot R. , Piens M. A. , Thiebaut A. , Dannaoui E. , Picot S.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  Different commercial enzyme‐linked immunsorbent assays (ELISA) were evaluated in a preliminary study for diagnosis of systemic candidosis: Biomerica® and Virotech GmbH, which allowed immunoglobulin G detection, and Platelia®, which associated total antibody to antigen detection. They were tested with a home‐made ELISA and compared with the routine techniques used in the hospital laboratory: indirect immunofluorescence and counter‐immunoelectrophoresis. Sera were obtained from patients with probable or proven systemic candidosis (groups 3 and 4, n=8 and n=14, respectively) and from patients without systemic candidosis who were divided into controls (n=10), those hospitalized without Candida isolation (group 1, n=10) and those hospitalized with Candida isolation in a peripheral site (group 2, n=18). The immunoglobulin G ELISAs showed a higher sensitivity associated with lower specificity compared to the indirect immunofluorescence, counter‐immunoelectrophoresis and total immunoglobulin ELISAs. Mannan antigen detection showed the highest specificity (78.9%). Its association with the detection of total anti‐Candida immunoglobulins was more sensitive than the association of indirect immunofluorescence with counter‐immunoelectrophoresis (95.4% versus 59%, respectively) with a specificity of 52.6% (versus 55.2%). Interest in the use of commercial ELISAs, more particularly the Platelia® tests, has to be confirmed in a prospective study with follow‐up of the patients.
Bacterial and Candida adhesion to intact and denatured collagen in vitro
Authors: Makihira S. , Nikawa H. , Tamagami M. , Hamada T. , Nishimura H , Ishida K. , Yamashiro H.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  Several recent reports imply the possibility of cariogenicity and periodontal disease linked to denture plaque containing Candida albicans. Adhesion of oral bacteria and Candida species to the extracellular matrix, such as type I collagen, fibronectin and denatured type I collagen, was examined by using adenosine triphosphate (ATP) analysis. The adhesion of C. albicans to intact and denatured type I collagen was significantly greater than those of oral bacteria and other species of Candida. This result suggests that C. albicans possesses the ability to adhere specifically to extracellular matrix, as compared with other Candida species or oral bacteria.
Physiological characters of Sporothrix schenckii isolates
Authors: Ghosh A. , Maity P. K. , Hemashettar B. M. , Sharma V. K. , Chakrabarti A.
Published: March 2003

Summary.  Sporotrichosis is endemic in three regions (east, north and south) in India. The colony morphology and physiological characteristics of 49 clinical isolates from these three regions (25 from north India, 17 from east India and seven from south India) were analysed in both mycelial and yeast forms. No difference in colony character was seen among the 49 isolates on three different media. Growth of all isolates was inhibited at 40 °C. The yeast forms were found to be more tolerant to osmotic pressure and salt concentrations. Most mycelial forms grew well between pH 3–12.0 whereas most yeast forms could tolerate a pH range of 2.4 to 9.5. Variations in assimilation of arabinose, dextrin, raffinose, rhamnose and starch was observed among strains from different geographical regions. The yeast forms did not show any urease activity but the mycelial forms of all isolates could split urea. Phenol oxidase and potassium nitrate assimilation were positive and gelatinase activity and casein hydrolysis were negative for all isolates.