bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolite specific effects of solar UV‐A and UV‐B on alder and birch leaf phenolics
Authors: KOTILAINEN TITTA , TEGELBERG RIITTA , JULKUNEN‐TIITTO RIITTA , LINDFORS ANDERS , APHALO PEDRO J.
Published: February 2008

We measured the concentrations of ultraviolet (UV)‐absorbing phenolics varying in response to exclusion of either solar UV‐B or both solar UV‐A and UV‐B radiations in leaves of grey alder (Alnus incana) and white birch (Betula pubescens) trees under field conditions. In alder leaves 20 and in birch leaves 13 different phenolic metabolites were identified. The response to UV exclusion varied between and within groups of phenolics in both tree species. The changes in concentration for some metabolites suggest effects of only UV‐A or UV‐B, which band being effective depending on the metabolite. For some other metabolites, the results indicate that UV‐A and UV‐B affect concentrations in the same direction, while for a few compounds there was evidence suggesting opposite effects of UV‐A and UV‐B radiation. Finally, the concentration of some phenolics did not significantly respond to solar UV. We observed only minor effects on the summed concentration of all determined phenolic metabolites in alder and birch leaves, thus indicating that measuring only total phenolics concentration may not reveal the effects of radiation. Here, we show that the appropriate biological spectral weighting functions for plant‐protective responses against solar UV radiation extend in most cases – but not always – into the UV‐A region and more importantly that accumulation of different phenolic metabolites follows different action spectra. This demonstrates under field conditions that some of the implicit assumptions of earlier research simulating ozone depletion and studying the effects of UV radiation on plant secondary metabolites need to be reassessed.
Drought‐driven growth reduction in old beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) forests of the central Apennines, Italy
Authors: PIOVESAN GIANLUCA , BIONDI FRANCO , FILIPPO ALFREDO DI , ALESSANDRINI ALFREDO , MAUGERI MAURIZIO
Published: February 2008

Productivity of old‐growth beech forests in the Mediterranean Basin was measured by average stem basal area increment (BAI) of dominant trees at two mountain sites in the Italian Apennines. Both forests could be ascribed to the old‐growth stage, but they differed markedly with regard to elevation (1000 vs. 1725 m a.s.l.), soil parent material (volcanic vs. calcareous), mean tree age (less than 200 years vs. 300 years), and stand structure (secondary old‐growth vs. primary old‐growth forest). Drought at the two sites was quantified by the self‐calibrated Palmer Moisture Anomaly Index (Z‐index), and by the self‐calibrating Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) for summer (June through August) and the growing season (May through September). Dendroclimatological analyses revealed a moisture limitation of beech BAI at interannual (water availability measured by Z‐index) and decadal scales (water availability measured by PDSI). Both BAI and water availability increased from 1950 to 1970, and decreased afterwards. Trees were grouped according to their BAI trends in auxological groups (growth‐type chronologies), which confirmed that growth of most trees at both sites declined in recent decades, in agreement with increased drought. Because BAI is not expected to decrease without an external forcing, the patterns we uncovered suggest that long‐term drought stress has reduced the productivity of beech forests in the central Apennines, in agreement with similar trends identified in other Mediterranean mountains, but opposite to growth trends reported for many forests in central Europe.
Climate change and the timing, magnitude, and composition of the phytoplankton spring bloom
Authors: SOMMER ULRICH , LENGFELLNER KATHRIN
Published: February 2008

In this article, we show by mesocosm experiments that winter and spring warming will lead to substantial changes in the spring bloom of phytoplankton. The timing of the spring bloom shows only little response to warming as such, while light appears to play a more important role in its initiation. The daily light dose needed for the start of the phytoplankton spring bloom in our experiments agrees well with a recently published critical light intensity found in a field survey of the North Atlantic (around 1.3 mol photons m−2 day−1). Experimental temperature elevation had a strong effect on phytoplankton peak biomass (decreasing with temperature), mean cell size (decreasing with temperature) and on the share of microplankton diatoms (decreasing with temperature). All these changes will lead to poorer feeding conditions for copepod zooplankton and, thus, to a less efficient energy transfer from primary to fish production under a warmer climate.
Genes and biological processes controlled by the Drosophila FOXA orthologue Fork head
Authors: Liu Y. , Lehmann M.
Published: February 2008

The larval salivary glands of Drosophila express the FOXA transcription factor Fork head (Fkh) before, but not after, puparium formation. Forced expression of Fkh in late prepupae prevents the programmed destruction of the tissue, which normally occurs in the early pupa. Using Affymetrix GeneChips, we analysed changes in gene expression brought about by Fkh when expressed shortly before the normal time of salivary gland death. Genes identified as responsive to Fkh include not only cell death genes, but also genes involved in autophagy, phospholipid metabolism and hormone‐controlled signalling pathways. In addition, Fkh changed the expression of genes involved in glucose and fatty acid metabolism that are known to be target genes of the FOXAs in vertebrates. Premature loss of fkh induced by RNAi and gain of Fkh by ectopic expression at earlier times of development confirmed that genes identified in the microarray study are under normal developmental control by Fkh. These genes include Eip63F‐1, which is expressed in both salivary glands and Malpighian tubules, suggesting that Fkh controls common aspects of the secretory function of the two organs. Eip63F‐1 is one of many genes controlled by the steroid hormone 20‐hydroxyecdysone that appear to be co‐regulated by Fkh.
Characterization of inhibitors and substrates of Anopheles gambiae CYP6Z2
Authors: Mclaughlin L. A. , Niazi U. , Bibby J. , David J.‐P. , Vontas J. , Hemingway J. , Ranson H. , Sutcliffe M. J. , Paine M. J. I.
Published: February 2008

Three CYP6Z genes are linked to a major pyrethroid resistance locus in the mosquito Anopheles gambiae. We have expressed CYP6Z2 in Escherichia coli and produced a structural model in order to examine its role in detoxification. E. coli membranes co‐expressing CYP6Z2 and An. gambiae P450 reductase (AgCPR) catalysed the dealkylation of benzyloxyresorufin with kinetic parameters Km = 0.13 µM; Kcat = 1.5 min‐1. The IC50 values of a wide range of compounds were measured. Pyrethroids cypermethrin and permethrin produced low IC50 values, but were not metabolized. Plant flavanoids were the most potent inhibitors. Several compounds were shown to be substrates, suggesting that CYP6Z2 has broad substrate specificity and plays an important chemo‐protective role during the herbivorous phase of the life‐cycle.
Identification of odorant‐binding proteins of the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti: genome annotation and comparative analyses
Authors: Zhou J.‐J. , He X.‐L. , Pickett J. A. , Field L. M.
Published: February 2008

The yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti is an important human health pest which vectors yellow fever and dengue viruses. Olfaction plays a crucial role in its attraction to hosts and although the molecular basis of this is not well understood it is likely that odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs) are involved in the first step of molecular recognition. Based on the OBPs of Drosophila melanogaster and Anopheles gambiae we have defined sequence motifs based on OBP conserved cysteine and developed an algorithm which has allowed us to identify 66 genes encoding putative OBPs from the genome sequence and expressed sequence tags (ESTs) of Ae. aegypti. We have also identified 11 new OBP genes for An. gambiae. We have examined all of the corresponding peptide sequences for the properties of OBPs. The predicted molecular weights fall within the expected range but the predicted isoeletric points are spread over a wider range than found previously. Comparative analyses of the 66 OBP sequences of Ae. aegypti with other dipteran species reveal some mosquito‐specific genes as well as conserved homologues. The genomic organisation of Ae. aegypti OBPs suggests that a rapid expansion of OBPs has occurred, probably by gene duplication. The analyses of OBP‐containing regions for microsynteny indicate a very high synteny between Ae. aegypti and An. gambiae.
Shelf life of several marine fish species of Bangladesh during ice storage
Authors: Reza Md. Shaheed , Bapary Mohammad A. J. , Ahasan Chowdhury T. , Islam Md. Nazrul , Kamal Md.
Published: February 2008

Organoleptic, biochemical and bacteriological aspects of five tropical marine fish such as silver jewfish, Bombay duck, big‐eye tuna, Chinese pomfret and ribbon fish stored in ice were studied. Organoleptically all fish were found acceptable for 10–13 days before becoming inedible. Proximate analysis showed that moisture content increased slightly; protein and lipid content decreased gradually and ash had little or no significant change. pH, TVB‐N, peroxide and aerobic plate count values increased with increasing storage period but the values were within acceptable range up to 10 days of storage. Changes in myofibrillar ATPase activity and solubility of these fishes showed that Ca2+ ATPase in the presence of both 0.1 m and 0.5 m KCl decreased gradually whereas no marked changes were observed in the Mg+2 ATPase activities in the presence/absence of Ca+2. Myofibrillar protein solubility of all fish samples also decreased considerably during ice storage. The decrement in Ca2+ ATPase activity and solubility indicates denaturation of myofibrillar protein of fish samples during ice storage.
Comparison of full‐fat and low‐fat cheese analogues with or without pectin gel through microstructure, texture, rheology, thermal and sensory analysis
Authors: Liu He , Xu Xue Ming , Guo Shi Dong
Published: February 2008

The effects of pectin gel and protein base on processed semi‐solid cheese analogues were studied through microstructure, texture, rheology, thermal analysis and sensory evaluation. Scanning electron microscopy revealed differences in the microstructure of processed cheese analogues. Samples made with full‐fat contained higher concentrations of fat globules and were denser compared with low‐fat cheese analogues with or without pectin gel. The pectin gel in the products acted as a linkage with other ingredients and made the products more compact and had less cavity compared with the products without pectin gel added. On rheological analysis, the full‐fat products manifested a more solid‐like form. The storage modulus of pectin gel sample was higher than that without pectin gel. All the samples’ rheological parameters were depending on the oscillatory frequency and temperature. In low‐fat samples, pectin gel added or not affected the hardness, gumminess, chewiness and adhesiveness significantly. The pectin gel addition show positive effect to the texture profile of the low‐fat cheese analogues. Through thermal analysis, the meltability and glass transition temperature of the processed cheese analogues were measured. The low‐fat cheese analogue with pectin gel addition got the higher texture and mouthfeel scores through sensory evaluation.
Composition and functional properties of raw and electron beam‐irradiated Mucuna pruriens seeds
Authors: Bhat Rajeev , Sridhar Kandikere R , Young Chiu‐Chung , Bhagwath Arun A. , Ganesh Sanjeev
Published: February 2008

The proximate, nutritional and functional properties of raw and electron beam‐irradiated (0–30 kGy) Mucuna seeds were investigated. Irradiation increased crude protein and crude carbohydrates significantly than crude lipid, crude fibre and energy. Raw seeds were rich in minerals and were not affected by irradiation except for magnesium and phosphorus. Amino acids of raw seeds were comparable to soyabean and FAO/WHO reference pattern and except for 30 kGy, no significant changes were seen in amino acid profile. Raw seeds were rich in unsaturated fatty acids and some of them decreased on irradiation, while linoleic acid steadily elevated (0–14.35 mg g−1 lipid). In vitro protein digestibility was dose dependent and significantly increased up to 15 kGy. Water and oil absorption capacities and foaming capacity significantly increased on irradiation, while protein solubility decreased (15 and 30 kGy) with an improvement of gelation property of seed flour. The cooking time of seeds significantly reduced on irradiation.
Colour improvement of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) fillets by hydrogen peroxide for surimi production
Authors: Jafarpour Ali , Sherkat Frank , Leonard Brian , Gorczyca Elisabeth M.
Published: February 2008

The preferred colour for surimi is white, but surimi prepared from light fillets of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) is slightly pink. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2; 1–3% v/v) with and without sodium tri‐polyphosphate (STP; 1–2% w/v) was added to a sodium carbonate bath (pH 7.0–11.5) resulting in a final pH range of 4.4–10.1 which was injected into carp fillets. After soaking and tumbling for 30 min at 4–10 °C, the fillets were evaluated for colour and water holding capacity (WHC). Fillets tumbled with treatment solution with different pH levels (7.0–11.5), but with no H2O2 or STP added, had improved colour with significantly (P < 0.05) higher L* compared with untreated fillets as the control. However, the colour improvement [(L* and colour deviation (ΔE)] was not significantly different (P > 0.05) within the pH levels (7.0–11.5) trialled. With increasing H2O2 levels (1–3%), fillets became lighter and ΔE increased significantly (P < 0.05), especially with a 3% H2O2 treatment at pH of 10.5 (adjusted pH before H2O2 addition, actual pH after H2O2 addition was 8.2). The whiteness (L*−3b*) of kamaboko produced from treated (3% H2O2, pH 10.5) common carp light fillets was not significantly different to that of kamaboko from Alaska pollock and threadfin bream. Treatments combining H2O2 (3%) with STP (1–2%) significantly reduced the L* value obtained in comparison with fillets treated with only H2O2 (3%). Similarly, fillets treated with STP (1%) alone, resulting in lower L* values, irrespective of treatment pH (7.0–11.5). WHC, an indicator of the quality of the fillet texture, increased from 816 g/kg at pH 7.0 without STP to 841 g/kg at pH 11.5 with 1% STP. Treatment with H2O2 (without STP) decreased the WHC of the fillets.
Complementary nitrogen use among potentially dominant species in a biodiversity experiment varies between two years
Authors: Roscher Christiane , Thein Susanne , Schmid Bernhard , Scherer‐Lorenzen Michael
Published: February 2008

In plant communities, a better use of nitrogen for growth and access to additional nitrogen by N2 fixing legumes have been suggested as mechanisms that contribute to the positive relationship between species richness and above‐ground biomass production. We studied above‐ground biomass production, and plant and soil nitrogen in a biodiversity experiment using a pool of nine potentially dominant grassland species (five grasses: Alopecurus pratensis, Arrhenatherum elatius, Dactylis glomerata, Phleum pratense, Poa trivialis; two legumes: Trifolium pratense, T. repens; two non‐legume herbs: Anthriscus sylvestris, Geranium pratense) in the second and third year after establishment.

Total above‐ground biomass and nitrogen pools increased with species richness in the second year. In the third year, the positive effect of species richness on above‐ground biomass was less pronounced but still significant, while nitrogen pools did not increase with species richness. Above‐ground nitrogen pools and biomass production were significantly lower in the third year.

Above‐ground nitrogen pools of mixtures were higher than expected from monocultures in 94% of cases and increased with the species richness of mixtures in the second year. In the third year, only 55% of the mixtures had higher nitrogen yields than expected. A significant increase in the amount of biomass produced per gram nitrogen, a decrease of soil nitrate pools and the inability of mixtures to use soil nitrate more completely than expected from monocultures indicated lower nitrogen availability in the third year. Complementary resource use was not solely dependent on the occurrence of N2 fixing legumes in mixtures, but also played a role in mixtures without legumes.

Synthesis. Our study shows that biodiversity effects through complementary nitrogen use can occur among potentially dominant grassland species. The degree of resource partitioning depends on growing conditions, with stronger complementarity effects under nutrient‐rich conditions.
Long‐term change in the phenology of spring phytoplankton: species‐specific responses to nutrient enrichment and climatic change
Authors: Thackeray S. J. , Jones I. D. , Maberly S. C.
Published: February 2008

A number of studies have shown that spring biological events have advanced in recent decades, and concluded that these changes in phenology are driven by climatic change. Freshwater lakes are sensitive indicators of climate change, where direct effects of climate on physical processes can affect the seasonal timing of planktonic communities. However, many lake ecosystems have also experienced long‐term changes in other ecological pressures that could affect phenology.

In this study, long‐term (1955–2003) physical, chemical and biological data from Windermere (UK) were analysed in order to assess the relative effects of a number of coincident pressures on the phenology of two spring diatom taxa. The analysis provides a detailed case study, highlighting the species‐specific drivers that affect the phenology of dominant members of the phytoplankton community.

The results showed that, whilst the spring peak biomass of one taxon (Cyclotella) appeared to be advancing as a result of earlier thermal stratification, the advancement of the other (Asterionella) was closely linked with both progressive nutrient enrichment and lake warming. Furthermore, nutrient enrichment explained more variation in phenology than water temperature. Both taxa also reached their peak abundance earlier when the over wintering biomass at the end of the previous year was higher.

Patterns of change in phenology and ecological pressures were markedly nonlinear in time, as were the effects of some drivers of seasonal timing. This highlighted a need to relax the restriction of linearity in our analyses of biological seasonality.

Synthesis. Phenological shifts may be brought about by local processes, such as eutrophication, as well as by climate change. Even in the same ecosystem different mechanisms may alter the phenology of different species.
The genetic legacy of polyploid Bolivian Daphnia: the tropical Andes as a source for the North and South American D. pulicaria complex
Authors: MERGEAY JOACHIM , AGUILERA XIMENA , DECLERCK STEVEN , PETRUSEK ADAM , HUYSE TINE , DE MEESTER LUC
Published: February 2008

We investigated genetic variation in asexual polyploid members of the water flea Daphnia pulex complex from a set of 12 Bolivian high‐altitude lakes. We used nuclear microsatellite markers to study genetic relationships among all encountered multilocus genotypes, and combined this with a phylogenetic approach using DNA sequence data of three mitochondrial genes. Analyses of mitochondrial gene sequence divergence showed the presence of three very distinct clades that likely represent cryptic undescribed species. Our phylogenetic results suggest that the Daphnia pulicaria group, a complex of predominantly North American species that has diversified rapidly since the Pleistocene, has its origin in South America, as specific tests of topology indicated that all three South American lineages are ancestral to the North American members of this species group. A comparison between variation of nuclear and mitochondrial markers revealed that closely related polyploid nuclear genotypes sometimes belonged to very divergent mitochondrial lineages, while distantly related nuclear genotypes often belonged to the same mitochondrial lineage. This discrepancy suggests that these South American water fleas originated through reciprocal hybridization between different endemic, sexually reproducing parental lineages. It is also likely that polyploidy of the investigated lineages resulted from this hybridization. Nevertheless, no putative diploid parental lineages were found in the studied region.
Monoclonal antibodies reveal changes in predator efficiency with prey spatial pattern
Authors: GRIFFITHS GEORGIANNE J. K. , ALEXANDER COLIN J. , HOLLAND JOHN M. , KENNEDY PETER J. , PERRY JOE N. , SYMONDSON WILLIAM O. C. , WINDER LINTON
Published: February 2008

Spatially explicit predator–prey interactions can alter the predatory potential of natural enemies augmented through conservation biological control. To test hypotheses regarding such interactions and predatory efficiency, we used a combination of molecular techniques and mark–release–recapture to study the foraging behaviour of a generalist carabid predator, Poecilus cupreus, in response to spatial patterns of its cereal aphid prey (Metapolophium dirhodum and Sitobion avenae). Beetle and aphid numbers were measured across two grids of sampling locations, within which aphid spatial pattern had been manipulated to generate patchy and more homogenous distributions. Aphid consumption was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) of beetle gut contents, using an aphid‐specific monoclonal antibody. Movement and distribution patterns suggest that P. cupreus does not aggregate at, nor instigate prey‐taxis within, aphid patches. However, more than two‐thirds of the 2169 P. cupreus tested by ELISA had consumed aphids and the proportion of beetles containing aphid proteins was positively related to aphid density. Against expectation, the proportion of predators feeding on aphids was greatest where prey were homogenously distributed, and this was attributed to the loss of partial refuges for prey in aphid patches. The functional value of this type of uniform foraging strategy is ideally suited to early colonization of the crop habitat, when aphid numbers are low, before populations build up and form strong spatial patterns.
High genetic differentiation in the alpine plant Campanula alpina Jacq. (Campanulaceae): evidence for glacial survival in several Carpathian regions and long‐term isolation between the Carpathians and the Alps
Authors: RONIKIER M. , CIEŚLAK E. , KORBECKA G.
Published: February 2008

A survey of amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) and chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) variation was conducted to elucidate the phylogeography of Campanula alpina, a key species of silicicolous alpine grasslands in the Carpathians with a disjunct distribution in the Eastern European Alps. The Carpathians experienced a different glacial history from the Alps: local glaciers were present only in the highest massifs, while alpine habitats extended over larger areas related to their present distribution in this region. We asked: (i) whether in the Carpathians a high‐mountain plant exhibits a complex phylogeographical structure or rather signatures of recent migrations, and (ii) whether the disjunct part of the species’ distribution in the Alps resulted from a recent colonization from the Carpathians or from a restricted expansion from separate Eastern Alpine refugia. Our study revealed a clear phylogeographical pattern in AFLPs supported by congruent groups of distinct cpDNA haplotypes. Highest genetic differentiation was observed between the Alps and the Carpathians, indicating a long‐term isolation between populations from these two mountain ranges. Further genetic division within the Carpathians suggests that current species’ distribution is composed of several groups which have been isolated from each other for a long period. One genetic break separates Western from Southeastern Carpathian material, which is in line with a classical biogeographical boundary. A further, strongly supported genetic group was identified at the southwestern edge of the Carpathian arch. In the Eastern Alps, genetic traces of glacial survival in separate refugial areas in the calcareous northern part and the siliceous central part were found.
Adherence and health‐related quality of life in adolescent liver transplant recipients
Authors: Fredericks Emily M. , Magee John C. , Opipari‐Arrigan Lisa , Shieck Victoria , Well Andrew , Lopez M. James
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Adolescence is a particularly high‐risk period for non‐adherence with post‐transplant medical regimens. There remains a lack of research investigating factors related to non‐adherence in adolescent LT recipients. The present study empirically assessed the relationship between adherence and HRQOL in adolescent LT recipients. Participants included 25 adolescents (mean = 15.1 yr, range 12–17.9) and their parent/guardian(s). Adherence was assessed using multiple indices including clinician‐conducted interviews, rate of clinic attendance, and s.d. of consecutive tacrolimus blood levels. HRQOL was examined using self‐report and parent‐proxy report on well‐validated assessment measures. Results indicated that 76% of participants were non‐adherent on at least one measure of adherence, and HRQOL was significantly lower than normative data for healthy children. Tacrolimus s.d. were significant related to poor HRQOL across domains of physical, school, and social functioning. Non‐adherent adolescents reported poorer health perceptions, self‐esteem, mental health, family cohesion, and more limitations in social and school activities related to physical, emotional, and behavioral problems. These results suggest that empirically based assessment of HRQOL may help identify those at highest risk for behavior, emotional and school difficulties, as well as non‐adherence. The examination of tacrolimus s.d. may also help identify patients who may benefit from intervention to promote adherence and HRQOL. Prospective investigations are necessary to further identify the impact of HRQOL on adherence and long‐term health outcomes to further guide clinical intervention.
Tacrolimus withdrawal and conversion to sirolimus at three months post‐pediatric renal transplantation
Authors: Hymes Leonard C. , Warshaw Barry L. , Amaral Sandra G. , Greenbaum Larry A.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Nephrotoxicity caused by CNI may adversely affect long‐term graft outcomes. For this reason, we have adopted a protocol for withdrawing TAC and converting to SRL at three months post‐renal transplantation. All recipients received basiliximab induction and TAC, MMF, and prednisone. Patients without acute rejection by surveillance biopsy at three months were eligible for SRL conversion. Results: From August 2004 to September 2006, TAC was withdrawn and replaced by SRL in 30 first transplant recipients, who were followed for six to 39 months (mean 18 ± 8). Renal function did not improve significantly after SRL conversion (p = 0.25). Acute rejection occurred in three patients (10%) at five to 12 months after CNI withdrawal. There were no occurrences of wound healing problems, pneumonitis or post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disease. Thrombocytopenia and diabetes each occurred in one patient. Four patients received treatment for hypercholesterolemia. CNI withdrawal and replacement with SRL was an effective regimen in children who did not display biopsy evidence of acute rejection at three months post‐transplant. While these early results are promising, the ultimate benefit of this protocol to enhance the long‐term renal function and graft survival requires ongoing follow‐up.
Long term follow‐up of glomerular and tubular functions in liver transplanted patients with Wilson’s disease
Authors: Ozcay Figen , Bayrakci Umut Selda , Baskin Esra , Sakalli Hale , Canan Oguz , Karakayali Hamdi , Haberal Mehmet
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to determine the long term outcome of renal glomerular and tubular functions in children receiving an LT for WD. Renal functions were examined in nine children with WD before and long after LT and compared with those of nine liver transplanted children with hepatic diseases other than WD. The duration of follow‐up was at least two yr for both groups. GFR, fractional TRP and tubular maximum rate of phosphate reabsorption in relation to GFR (TP/GFR) as well as daily protein and Ca excretion were studied in both groups before and after LT. Pretransplant mean GFR, TRP and TP/GFR were significantly lower in the study group than the controls. A significant increase in the post‐transplant TRP and TP/GFR was observed in the study group and the difference between the groups disappeared during the long term follow‐up. Urinary protein excretion decreased in both groups after LT. Tubular dysfunction is frequent in patients with WD. LT for hepatic failure secondary to WD is a lifesaving procedure correcting the underlying hepatic defect as well as renal defects.
EFFECTS OF VOLUME DEPLETION AND NaHCO3 LOADING ON THE EXPRESSION OF Na+/H+ EXCHANGER ISOFORM 3, Na+ : HCO COTRANSPORTER TYPE 1 AND NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHASE IN RAT KIDNEY
Authors: Ma Seong Kwon , Kang Joo Sam , Bae Eun Hui , Choi Chan , Lee JongUn , Kim Suhn Hee , Choi Ki Chul , Kim Soo Wan
Published: February 2008

The effects of volume depletion and NaHCO3 loading on the expression of Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 3 (NHE3), Na+ : cotransporter type 1 (NBC1) and neuronal (n) and inducible (i) isoforms of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) were determined in rat kidney.

Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were used. Rats were divided into four groups: (i) euvolaemic (EC); (ii) hypovolaemic (HC); (iii) euvolaemia with NaHCO3 loading (EB); and (iv) hypovolaemia with NaHCO3 loading (HB). The expression of NHE3, NBC1, nNOS and iNOS proteins was determined in the cortex of the kidney by immunoblotting and immunohistochemistry. Tissue content of nitric oxide (NO) metabolites (NOx) were also determined in the cortex using a colourimetric assay.

Compared with the EC group, the expression of NHE3 and NBC1 was increased in the HC group and decreased in the EB group. Comparing the EB and HB groups, the expression of NHE3 and NBC1 was higher in the latter group. The expression of NHE3 was decreased and that of NBC1 was increased in the HB group compared with the HC group. The NOx content and nNOS expression were decreased in the hypovolaemic (HC) and NaHCO3‐loaded (EB and HB) rats. Moreover, the expression of iNOS was decreased in the HB group compared with the other groups.

An altered volume status and NaHCO3 loading may affect the regulation of NHE3 and NBC1 in the kidney and the endogenous NO system may play a role in the observed effects.
STIMULATION OF OESTROGEN RECEPTOR‐EXPRESSING ENDOTHELIAL CELLS WITH OESTROGEN REDUCES PROLIFERATION OF COCULTURED VASCULAR SMOOTH MUSCLE CELLS
Authors: Odenlund Malin , Ekblad Eva , Nilsson Bengt‐Olof
Published: February 2008

Oestrogen reduces vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation in mouse vascular injury models. Data on the antiproliferative effect of oestrogen in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) are less conclusive than those obtained in whole animal studies.

In the present study, we investigated the hypothesis that oestrogen‐induced attenuation of VSMC proliferation is facilitated by the presence of endothelial cells (EC) using a coculture system of EC and VSMC.

Treatment with a physiological concentration of oestrogen (17β‐estradiol (E2); 100 nmol/L) had no effect on fetal calf serum (FCS)‐stimulated DNA synthesis in either A7r5 VSMC or bEnd.3 EC. However, stimulation of bEnd. 3 cells with E2 in a coculture system of bEnd.3 and A7r5 cells reduced FCS‐induced DNA synthesis in A7r5 cells by approximately 45%. The nitric oxide synthase inhibitor NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME; 100 µmol/L) did not reverse the oestrogen‐induced attenuation of DNA synthesis. The antiproliferative effect of E2 may be mediated via either oestrogen receptor (ER) α, ERβ or both because the bEnd.3 cells expressed immunoreactivity for both ER subtypes.

These data show that ERα‐ and ERβ‐expressing endothelial cells, which are stimulated with a physiological concentration of oestrogen, release a factor(s) that arrests the proliferation of cocultured VSMC. Oestrogen‐induced attenuation of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation is not prevented by l‐NAME, suggesting that a mechanism other than endothelial NO is involved.
THE AGE/RAGE AXIS IN DIABETES‐ACCELERATED ATHEROSCLEROSIS
Authors: Jandeleit‐Dahm Karin , Watson Anna , Soro‐Paavonen Aino
Published: February 2008

There is increasing evidence that advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) and their interaction with the receptor RAGE play a pivotal role in atherosclerosis, in particular in the setting of diabetes.

Previous studies have shown that inhibition of AGE accumulation and RAGE expression in diabetes by either reduction of the formation of AGEs or cross‐link breakers was associated with reduced atherosclerosis and renal disease. Advanced glycation end‐products bind to RAGE, thereby leading to activation of a range of inflammatory and fibrotic pathways causing tissue injury. Different splice variants of RAGE exist, including a soluble form that lacks the intracellular domain and fails to induce signal transduction. Therapeutic approaches using soluble RAGE as a decoy binding protein for circulating AGE have been effective in preventing externally induced arterial injury and atherosclerosis in the absence and presence of diabetes.

In order to delineate the role of RAGE in vascular disease in more detail, it was necessary to create RAGE−/– mice, as well as transgenic mice overexpressing RAGE in endothelial cells. It was shown that RAGE overexpression was associated with increased vascular injury, nephropathy and retinopathy.

In contrast, RAGE deletion was associated with partial vascular protection, such as reduced neointima formation after arterial denudation, as well as protection from diabetic nephropathy. The present review summarizes the evidence for RAGE being a pro‐inflammatory and pro‐fibrotic receptor.

Further studies are needed to delineate the effect of RAGE deletion and overexpression in diabetic macrovascular disease. Based on these findings, RAGE could be a potential therapeutic target in combating inflammatory vascular diseases, including diabetes‐associated atherosclerosis.
Effect of seasonal changes in the photosynthates mannitol and laminaran on maturation of Ecklonia cava (Phaeophyceae, Laminariales) in Nishiki Bay, central Japan
Authors: Iwao Toyoki , Kurashima Akira , Maegawa Miyuki
Published: February 2008

Seasonal changes in the contents of two photosynthates, namely, mannitol and laminaran, were investigated in Ecklonia cava Kjellman with reference to its maturation. The samples were collected from a depth of 8 m in Nishiki Bay, central Japan. The mannitol and laminaran contents in the bladelets were measured. We also determined the content of these photosynthates in the bladelets occupying different positions on the frond and in the sorus and non‐sorus portions of the bladelets. The maturation of sori initiated in July and peaked in October. The content of the two photosynthates in the bladelets was low in winter; this coincided with the active formation of new bladelets. Mannitol levels were high during the beginning of the maturation season in summer. Laminaran, in particular, was present in the bladelets only in summer. The laminaran content was higher in the sorus portions than in the non‐sorus ones; however, the mannitol content was almost equal in both portions. The laminaran content was high only in the bladelets just prior to maturation and in the mature bladelets at the beginning of the maturation season. These results suggested that mannitol and laminaran were important energy sources for the maturation of E. cava from summer to autumn, and laminaran in particular was closely associated with the maturation of reproductive structures.
Oligocarrageenans and tissue‐dependant oxidative burst in Solieria chordalis (Rhodophyceae, Gigartinales)
Authors: Ar Gall Erwan , Cornec Laurence , Deslandes Eric
Published: February 2008

The release of hydrogen peroxide by thallus fragments of the rhodophycean Solieria chordalis (C. Agardh) J. Agardh has been documented both in the presence and in the absence of oligosaccharides. Within 1 h, ramuli were able to release large amounts of peroxide in the absence of any chemical stress. Among potential elicitors tested, only degree of polymerization 1 (DP1) and DP7‐8 oligo‐iota‐carrageenans stimulated defense mechanisms in both axes and ramuli as shown by the occurrence of an oxidative burst. Chopping of the tissues had no effect on the intensity of the burst, therefore suggesting that mainly cortical cell layers were involved in the process. After 5 min incubation, a dose of 125 μg mL−1 of an oligomeric mixture containing a large proportion of DP1 units proved to be sufficient to obtain a maximal response. The intensity of the burst was significantly higher with isolated ramuli than with pieces of the axis, with outer peroxide accumulations reaching 200 nmol g−1 fresh weight of treated tissue. Altogether, our results show that S. chordalis is able to react to a simulated pathogen attack by an oxidative burst and that the capacity to carry out an oxidative burst is stronger in ramuli than in axes.
Sebdenia cerebriformis sp. nov. (Sebdeniaceae, Sebdeniales) from the south and western Pacific Ocean
Authors: N'Yeurt Antoine D.R. , Payri Claude E.
Published: February 2008

A new species of red alga, Sebdenia cerebriformis N'Yeurt et Payri sp. nov. (Sebdeniaceae, Sebdeniales), is described from various localities in the south and western Pacific including Fiji, New Caledonia, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Indonesia (Java Sea). The new species is characterized by a ruffled thallus with multiple perennial stipitate holdfasts, large conspicuous inner cortical stellate cells, and a lax filamentous medulla.
Seasonal variation on size and chemical constituents of Sargassum sinicola Setchell et Gardner from Bahía de La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez‐Montesinos Yoloxochitl Elizabeth , Arvizu‐Higuera Dora Luz , Hernández‐Carmona Gustavo
Published: February 2008

Investigation on seasonal variation in size and chemical constituents of Sargassum sinicola Setchell et Gardner from Bahía de La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico, was carried out from a control bed and compared with an experimental bed with artificial nutrients added. No significant differences were found between the control and experimental thalli for size or chemical composition, except for iodine and raw fiber. For control thalli the results were: size 7.5–56.0 cm, alginate yield 7.2–13.7%, viscosity 58.7–191.7 millipascal seconds (mPa s), mannitol 2.9–8.1%, raw fiber 5.5–7.5% and iodine 0.020–0.141%; while in the experimental thalli the size ranged from 7.5 to 80.3 cm and the alginate yield was 7.8–10.4%, viscosity 41.4–163.4 mPa s, mannitol 2.9–8.3%, raw fiber 5.9–10.7% and iodine 0.021–0.098%. These variations were related to its natural growth cycle, and showed reductions during the senescence period. Results suggest that S. sinicola is not affected by relatively low nutrient concentrations, and could be considered as raw material for alginate production.
Insect, not plant, determines gall morphology in the Apiomorpha pharetrata species‐group (Hemiptera: Coccoidea)
Authors: Cook Lyn G , Gullan Penelope J
Published: February 2008

Abstract  Scale insects of the genus Apiomorpha Rübsaamen (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Eriococcidae) induce sexually dimorphic galls on Eucalyptus, but the Apiomorpha pharetrata species‐group is unusual in that nymphal males aggregate on the surface of the maternal gall where they induce a compound structure. Although originally described as distinct species on the basis of differences in gall morphology, A. pharetrata (Schrader) and A. thorntoni (Froggatt) were subsequently synonymised, primarily because the adult females of the two are morphologically indistinguishable. The two gall types of A. pharetrata sensu lato are allopatric and found on different host eucalypt species. To test the hypothesis that gall morphology may be determined by the host species on which the female feeds, we reared crawlers of field‐collected females from both gall types on eucalypts in a glasshouse. Both gall types were induced on the same eucalypt species, with the gall type matching that of the maternal gall from which the crawlers had emerged. This indicates that it is the insect, not the host, that determines the gall morphology in these taxa. In addition, insects from the two gall types were different chromosomally and could be distinguished by one fixed allozyme difference. Thus, Brachyscelis (= Apiomorpha) thorntoni (Froggatt) revised status is removed from synonymy with Brachyscelis (= Apiomorpha) pharetrata (Schrader), and recognised as a distinct biological species. However, the extent of chromosomal variation among the populations of both A. pharetrata and A. thorntoni suggests that there may be further cryptic species present.
Plant hosts and parasitoid associations of leaf mining flies (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in the Canberra region of Australia
Authors: Lambkin Christine L , Fayed Sarah A , Manchester Christopher , La Salle John , Scheffer Sonja J , Yeates David K
Published: February 2008

Abstract  Many leaf mining flies (Diptera: Agromyzidae) are important economic pests of agricultural crops and ornamental plants, and species‐rich hymenopteran parasitoid complexes are important in their control. Australian agromyzids are poorly studied, and little is known about their host plants, ecology or natural enemies. We surveyed native and naturalised species of leaf mining flies in Tallaganda National Park, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Malaise and emergence trapping in Tallaganda yielded 70 agromyzid specimens from six species in four genera: Cerodontha Rondani, Liriomyza Mik, Phytoliriomyza Hendel and Phytomyza Fallen. Of the six species collected, three are Australasian species, two are naturalised species introduced from Europe and one could not be determined to species. The Australian Cerodontha (Cerodontha) milleri Spencer represented most of the individuals caught in both Malaise and emergence traps. A total of 163 agromyzid and 98 parasitic wasp specimens were reared from plant samples with agromyzid mines in the Canberra region. Most agromyzids and parasitoids were reared from the weed Sonchus oleraceus L. (Asteraceae). All the agromyzids reared belonged to two introduced species of the genera Phytomyza and Chromatomyia Hardy. The biodiversity of parasitic wasps reared was high with 14 species from seven genera and three families. Hemiptarsenus varicornis (Girault) (Eulophidae), a widespread Old World agromyzid parasitoid, was the most numerous parasitoid reared in our survey.
Behavioural and electrophysiological responses of Pantomorus cervinus (Boheman) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) to host plant volatiles
Authors: Wee Suk‐Ling , El‐Sayed Ashraf M , Gibb Andrew R , Mitchell Vanessa , Suckling David M
Published: February 2008

Abstract  Fuller's rose weevil (FRW; Pantomorus cervinus) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a polyphagous pest of citrus and other horticultural plants, was studied in laboratory assays designed to identify potential semiochemicals from host plants that might be exploited for weevil pest management. Using still‐air bioassays, weevils were found to be most attracted to fresh whole lemon leaves compared with cut and/or dried lemon leaves. White clover, an understorey plant in kiwifruit orchards, was also found to be attractive to weevils in the dual‐choice tests. Coupled gas chromatography‐electrophysiological recording of weevil antennal responses to commercial extracts of lemon leaves indicated that weevils detected at least eight monoterpene components of the oil, i.e. linalool, terpinen‐4‐ol, nerol, neral, geraniol, geranial, neryl acetate and geranyl acetate. Significant antennal dose–responses were evident to lemon leaf oil, lemon constituent odours and two major green leaf volatiles detected from clover (Z)‐3‐hexenol and (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate. Still‐air dual‐choice tests on individual chemicals showed significant repellency from seven of the lemon leaf compounds at 500 µg/100 µL (all except geranyl acetate). Weevils were attracted to a synthetic blend consisting of the green leaf volatiles over a range of concentrations (1, 10 and 100 mg/100 µL), as well as to clover leaves. These plant kairomone components may be potentially useful as repellents or attractants for FRW control and management programme.
Review of the genus Myrabolia Reitter (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea: Myraboliidae)
Authors: Tomaszewska K Wioletta , Slipinski Adam
Published: February 2008

Abstract  Species of the Australian genus Myrabolia are reviewed. Lectotypes are designated for Silvanus brevicornis Erichson, Myrabolia haroldiana Reitter, M. lindensis Blackburn and M. longicornis Blackburn. The following new species are described and illustrated: M. australis, M. blackburni, M. elongata, M. kioloa, M. lawrencei, M. micra, M. pelion and M. tasmanica. Ocholissa leai Grouvelle, originally described in Colydiidae, is here transferred to Myrabolia as M. leai (Grouvelle) comb. n. The nomenclatural history, a diagnosis and distribution data are provided for each species. A key to the species of the genus is presented.
Significance of a new field oviposition record for Graphium eurypylus (L.) (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae) on Michelia champaca (Magnoliaceae)
Authors: Larsen Michelle L , Scriber J Mark , Zalucki Myron P
Published: February 2008

Abstract  Phytochemical similarities among ancient Angiosperms presumably played a role in the ecological and evolutionary diversification of the swallowtail butterflies (Papilionidae). Host family feeding specialisation is typical of most Papilionidae species, but field records of oviposition are rare for most swallowtail butterflies. It is even more uncommon to witness oviposition and larval feeding on new host plant species, especially in plant families not previously reported for the butterfly species. Oviposition by a female on a new host, or even on a toxic plant, may represent ancestral behaviour (with a loss of larval acceptance, detoxification or processing abilities) or novel behaviour (providing genetic variation for a potential expansion of host range, or host shift). We document the oviposition, larval use and pupation of the Annonaceae specialised and geographically widespread Graphium eurypylus on a Magnoliaceae species, all under field conditions in Queensland, Australia. This is the first time such field observations of oviposition and larval feeding on Michelia champaca (Magnoliaceae) have been documented anywhere for this species.