bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grass group I pollen allergens (β‐expansins) lack proteinase activity and do not cause wall loosening via proteolysis
Authors: Li Lian‐Chao , Cosgrove Daniel J.
Published: March 2003

Group I grass pollen allergens make up a subgroup of the β‐expansin family of cell wall loosening proteins in plants. A recent study reported that recombinant Phl p 1, the group I allergen from timothy grass pollen, was associated with papain‐like proteinase activity and suggested that expansins loosen the plant cell wall via proteolysis. We tested this idea with three experimental approaches. First, we evaluated three purified native group I allergens from timothy grass, ryegrass and maize (Phl p 1, Lol p 1, Zea m 1) using five proteinase assays with a variety of substrates. The proteins had substantial wall loosening activity, but no detectable proteolytic activity. Thus we cannot confirm proteolytic activity in the pollen allergen class of β‐expansins. Second, we tested the ability of proteinases to induce cell wall extension in vitro. Tests included cysteine proteinases, serine proteinases, aspartic proteinases, metallo proteinases, and aggressive proteinase mixtures, none of which induced wall extension in vitro. Thus, wall proteins are unlikely to be important load‐bearing components of the plant cell wall. Third, we tested the sensitivity of β‐expansin activity and native wall extension activity to proteinase inhibitors. The results show that a wide range of proteinase inhibitors (phenylmethanesulfonyl fluoride, N‐ethylmaleimide, iodoacetic acid, Pefabloc SC, and others) inhibited neither activity. From these three sets of results we conclude proteolysis is not a likely mechanism of plant cell wall loosening and that the pollen allergen class of β‐expansins do not loosen cell walls via a proteolytic mechanism.
Crumpled structure of the custom hydrophobic lytic peptide cecropin B3
Authors: Srisailam S. , Kumar T. K. S. , Arunkumar A. I. , Leung K. W. , Yu C. , Chen H. M.
Published: March 2003

The solution structure of a custom lytic peptide, cecropin B3 (CB3), having two identical hydrophobic segments on both the N‐ and C‐termini, was investigated by two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopy. The need to determine the structure of this peptide is rooted in its specific ability to lyse lipid layers that have a high content of anionic lipid. The lytic activities of CB3 on cell membranes including cancer cells and bacteria is found to be less than cecropin B1. The results show that CB3 has four discrete segments forming α helical structures. The crumpled structure of CB3 provides evidence for the lysis of the lipid layer being via a pathway that differs from pore formation. The results in this study provide strong clues towards a rational design for a potent antimicrobial and antitumor peptide.
Improving solubility of catalytic domain of human β‐1,4‐galactosyltransferase 1 through rationally designed amino acid replacements
Authors: Malissard Martine , Berger Eric G.
Published: March 2003

β‐1,4‐galactosyltransferase 1 (β4gal‐T1, EC 2.4.1.38) transfers galactose from UDP‐galactose to free N‐acetyl‐d‐glucosamine or bound N‐acetyl‐d‐glucosamine‐R. Soluble β4gal‐T1, purified from human milk has been refractory to structural studies by X‐ray or NMR. In a previous study (Malissard et al. 1996, Eur. J. Biochem. 239, 340–348) we produced in the yeast Saccaromyces cerevisiae an N‐deglycosylated form of soluble β4gal‐T1 that was much more homogeneous than the human enzyme, as it displayed only two isoforms when analysed by IEF as compared to 13 isoforms for the native β4gal‐T1. The propensity of recombinant β4gal‐T1 to aggregate at concentrations > 1 mg·mL−1 prevented structural and biophysical studies. In an attempt to produce a β4gal‐T1 form suitable for structural studies, we combined site‐directed mutagenesis and heterologous expression in Escherichia coli. We produced a mutated form of the catalytic domain of β4gal‐T1 (sfβ4gal‐T1mut) in which seven mutations were introduced at nonconserved sites (A155E, N160K, M163T, A168T, T242N, N255D and A259T). Sfβ4gal‐T1mut was shown to be much more soluble than β4gal‐T1 expressed in S. cerevisiae (8.5 mg·mL−1 vs. 1 mg·mL−1). Catalytic activity and kinetic parameters of sfβ4gal‐T1mut produced in E. coli were shown not to differ to any significant extent from those of the native enzyme.
Cytochrome c reconstituted from two peptide fragments displays native‐like redox properties
Authors: Sinibaldi Federica , Fiorucci Laura , Mei Giampiero , Ferri Tommaso , Desideri Alessandro , Ascoli Franca , Santucci Roberto
Published: March 2003

Recombination of two fragments of horse cytochrome c (the heme‐containing N‐fragment, residues 1–56, and the C‐fragment, residues 57–104), which are substantially unstructured at neutral pH, gives rise to a 1 : 1 fragment complex with a compact conformation, in which the α helical structure and the native Met80–Fe(III) axial bond are recovered. With respect to the native protein, the ferric complex shows a less rigid atomic packing and a decreased stability [Δ(ΔGo)D = 14.7 kJ·mol−1], ascribed to perturbations involving the Trp59 microenvironment and, to a lower extent, the heme pocket region. The redox potential, E1/2 = 234 ± 5 mV vs. normal hydrogen electrode at 25 °C, is close to that of the intact protein, consistent with recovery of the native Met80–heme Fe(III) axial bond. Furthermore, the fragment complex shows reactivity similar to intact cytochrome c, in the reaction with cytochrome c oxidase. We conclude that the absence in the complex of some native cross‐links and interlocked packing important for protein rigidity and stability is not as relevant for maintaining the native redox properties of the protein, provided that some structural requirements (i.e. recovering of the native‐like α helical structure) are fulfilled and coordination of Met80 to the heme‐iron is restored.
Secretion of biologically active glycoforms of bovine follicle stimulating hormone in plants
Authors: Dirnberger Dietmar , Steinkellner Herta , Abdennebi Latifa , Remy Jean‐Jacques , van de Wiel Dick
Published: March 2003

We chose the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), a pituitary heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone, as a model to assess the ability of the plant cell to express a recombinant protein that requires extensive N‐glycosylation for subunit folding and assembly, intracellular trafficking, signal transduction and circulatory stability. A tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) based transient expression system was used to express a single‐chain (sc) version of bovine FSH in the tobacco related species Nicotiana benthamiana. Preparations of periplasmic proteins from plants infected with recombinant viral RNA contained high levels of sc‐bFSH, up to 3% of total soluble proteins. Consistently, in situ indirect immunofluorescence revealed that the plant cell secreted the mammalian secretory protein to the extracellular compartment (EC). By mass spectrometric analysis of immunoaffinity purified sc‐bFSH derived from EC fractions, we found two species of the plant paucimannosidic glycan type, truncated forms of complex‐type N‐glycans. Stimulation of cAMP production in a CHO cell line expressing the porcine FSH receptor acknowledged the native‐like structure of sc‐bFSH and a sufficient extent of N‐glycosylation required for signal transduction. Furthermore, in superovulatory treatments of mice, sc‐bFSH displayed significant in vivo bioactivity, although much lower than that of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin. We conclude that plants may have a broad utility as hosts for the recombinant expression of proteins even where glycosylation is essential for function.
Mapping divalent metal ion binding sites in a group II intron by Mn2+‐ and Zn2+‐induced site‐specific RNA cleavage
Authors: Hertweck Maren , Mueller Manfred W.
Published: March 2003

The function of group II introns depends on positively charged divalent metal ions that stabilize the ribozyme structure and may be directly involved in catalysis. We investigated Mn2+‐ and Zn2+‐induced site‐specific RNA cleavage to identify metal ions that fit into binding pockets within the structurally conserved bI1 group II intron domains (DI–DVI), which might fulfill essential roles in intron function. Ten cleavage sites were identified in DI, two sites in DIII and two in DVI. All cleavage sites are located in the center or close to single‐stranded and flexible RNA structures. Strand scissions mediated by Mn2+/Zn2+ are competed for by Mg2+, indicating the existence of Mg2+ binding pockets in physical proximity to the observed Mn2+‐/Zn2+‐induced cleavage positions. To distinguish between metal ions with a role in structure stabilization and those that play a more specific and critical role in the catalytic process of intron splicing, we combined structural and functional assays, comparing wild‐type precursor and multiple splicing‐deficient mutants. We identified six regions with binding pockets for Mg2+ ions presumably playing an important role in bI1 structure stabilization. Remarkably, assays with DI deletions and branch point mutants revealed the existence of one Mg2+ binding pocket near the branching A, which is involved in first‐step catalysis. This pocket formation depends on precise interaction between the branching nucleotide and the 5′ splice site, but does not require exon‐binding site 1/intron binding site 1 interaction. This Mg2+ ion might support the correct placing of the branching A into the ‘first‐step active site’.
Chemosensory protein from the moth Mamestra brassicae
Authors: Campanacci Valérie , Mosbah Amor , Bornet Olivier , Wechselberger Rainer , Jacquin‐Joly Emmanuelle , Cambillau Christian , Darbon Hervé , Tegoni Mariella
Published: March 2003

A group of ubiquitous small proteins (average 13 kDa) has been isolated from several sensory organs of a wide range of insect species. They are believed to be involved in chemical communication and perception (olfaction or taste) and have therefore been called chemo‐sensory proteins (CSPs). Several CSPs have been identified in the antennae and proboscis of the moth Mamestra brassicae. We have expressed one of the antennal proteins (CSPMbraA6) in large quantities as a soluble recombinant protein in Escherichia coli periplasm. This 112‐residue protein is a highly soluble monomer of 13 072 Da with a pI of 5.5. NMR data (1H and 15N) indicate that CSPMbraA6 is well folded and contains seven α helices (59 amino acids) and two short extended structures (12 amino acids) from positions 5 to 10 and from 107 to 112. Thirty‐seven amino acids are involved in β turns and coiled segments and four amino acids are not assigned in the NMR spectra (the N‐terminus and the residue 52 in the loop 48–53), probably due to their mobility. This is the first report on the expression and structural characterization of a recombinant CSP.
Oxidation of hydroquinones by the versatile ligninolytic peroxidase from Pleurotus eryngii
Authors: Gómez‐Toribio Víctor , Martínez Angel T. , Martínez María J. , Guillén Francisco
Published: March 2003

Formation of H2O2 during the oxidation of three lignin‐derived hydroquinones by the ligninolytic versatile peroxidase (VP), produced by the white‐rot fungus Pleurotus eryngii, was investigated. VP can oxidize a wide variety of phenols, including hydroquinones, either directly in a manner similar to horseradish peroxidase (HRP), or indirectly through Mn3+ formed from Mn2+ oxidation, in a manner similar to manganese peroxidase (MnP). From several possible buffers (all pH 5), tartrate buffer was selected to study the oxidation of hydroquinones as it did not support the Mn2+‐mediated activity of VP in the absence of exogenous H2O2 (unlike glyoxylate and oxalate buffers). In the absence of Mn2+, efficient hydroquinone oxidation by VP was dependent on exogenous H2O2. Under these conditions, semiquinone radicals produced by VP autoxidized to a certain extent producing superoxide anion radical (

–) that spontaneously dismutated to H2O2 and O2. The use of this peroxide by VP produced quinone in an amount greater than equimolar to the initial H2O2 (a quinone/H2O2 molar ratio of 1 was only observed under anaerobic conditions). In the presence of Mn2+, exogenous H2O2 was not required for complete oxidation of hydroquinone by VP. Reaction blanks lacking VP revealed H2O2 production due to a slow conversion of hydroquinone into semiquinone radicals (probably via autooxidation catalysed by trace amounts of free metal ions), followed by
– production through semiquinone autooxidation and

– reduction by Mn2+. This peroxide was used by VP to oxidize hydroquinone that was mainly carried out through Mn2+ oxidation. By comparing the activity of VP to that of MnP and HRP, it was found that the ability of VP and MnP to oxidize Mn2+ greatly increased hydroquinone oxidation efficiency.
Structural and catalytic properties and homology modelling of the human nucleoside diphosphate kinase C, product of the DRnm23 gene
Authors: Erent Muriel , Gonin Philippe , Cherfils Jacqueline , Tissier Pierre , Raschellà Giuseppe , Giartosio Anna , Agou Fabrice , Sarger Claude , Lacombe Marie‐Lise , Konrad Manfred , Lascu Ioan
Published: March 2003

The human DRnm23 gene was identified by differential screening of a cDNA library obtained from chronic myeloid leukaemia‐blast crisis primary cells. The over‐expression of this gene inhibits differentiation and induces the apoptosis of myeloid precursor cell lines. We overproduced in bacteria a truncated form of the encoded protein lacking the first 17 N‐terminal amino acids. This truncated protein was called nucleoside diphosphate (NDP) kinase CΔ. NDP kinase CΔ had similar kinetic properties to the major human NDP kinases A and B, but was significantly more stable to denaturation by urea and heat. Analysis of denaturation by urea, using size exclusion chromatography, indicated unfolding without the dissociation of subunits, whereas renaturation occurred via a folded monomer. The stability of the protein depended primarily on subunit interactions. Homology modelling of the structure of NDP kinase CΔ, based on the crystal structure of NDP kinase B, indicated that NDP kinase CΔ had several additional stabilizing interactions. The overall structure of the two enzymes appears to be identical because NDP kinase CΔ readily formed mixed hexamers with NDP kinase A. It is possible that mixed hexamers can be observed in vivo.
The lipase/acyltransferase from Candida parapsilosis
Authors: Neugnot Virginie , Moulin Guy , Dubreucq Eric , Bigey Frédéric
Published: March 2003

Candida parapsilosis has been previously shown to produce a lipase (i.e. able to catalyze efficiently the hydrolysis of insoluble lipid esters such as triacylglycerols) that preferentially catalyses transfer reactions such as alcoholysis in the presence of suitable nucleophiles other than water, even in aqueous media with high (> 0.9) water thermodynamic activity. The present work describes the cloning and the overexpression of the gene coding for this enzyme. Two ORFs (CpLIP1 and CpLIP2) were isolated. The deduced 465‐amino‐acid protein sequences contained the consensus motif (G‐X‐S‐X‐G) which is conserved among lipolytic enzymes. Only one of the two deduced proteins (CpLIP2) contained peptide sequences obtained from the purified lipase/acyltransferase. Homology investigations showed that CpLIP2 has similarities principally with 11 lipases produced by C. albicans (42–61%) and the lipase A from Candida antarctica (31%) but not with the other lipases sequenced so far. Both CpLIP1 and CpLIP2 were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but only CpLIP2 coded for an active protein. The substrate specificity and the catalytic behavior of purified recombinant CpLIP2, with or without a C‐terminal histidine tag, were not changed compared to those of the native lipase.
A Comparative Study of Facial Grooming after Prey Ingestion in Colubrid Snakes
Authors: Cunningham Daniel S. , Burghardt Gordon M.
Published: March 2003

For a comparative study of facial grooming behavior, we selected five species of colubrid snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis, T. butleri, T. melanogaster, Storeria dekayi, and Cyclophiops semicarinatus) based upon their phylogenetic relationships and natural diets. In an initial descriptive study, head‐rubbing behavior reliably followed ingestion of earthworms in all five species. Three forms of head rubbing were identified, including two forms of labial rubbing and one form of rostral area rubbing. The latter occurs during foraging as well as grooming. Two additional controlled experiments were then performed. One experiment assessed the effects of multiple feedings with either normal or immobilized earthworms. The second tested the effects of allowing snakes to contact surface secretions of earthworms and purified mucin without physically contacting the worm. The snakes showed a significantly greater number of head rubs when consuming active earthworms than when consuming immobilized worms, and this increased over the five trials. The snakes also head rubbed more frequently in response to earthworm mucus than to either earthworm surface wash or diluted mucin. The physical properties of earthworm mucus (adhesiveness) thus seem to stimulate head‐rubbing behavior. Differences in head rubbing among the species are discussed in relation to natural diet and phylogenetic relatedness. Furthermore, mouth gaping often occurred with head rubbing and can be distinguished from yawning. Tactile and kinesthetic cues associated with this gaping behavior may aid in regulating the occurrence of head rubbing. Neonate snakes head rubbed in a species‐typical manner.
Fractal Long‐Range Correlations in Behavioural Sequences of Wild Chimpanzees: a Non‐Invasive Analytical Tool for the Evaluation of Health
Authors: Alados C. L. , Huffman M. A.
Published: March 2003

Quantitative evaluation of health impairments in wild chimpanzees was explored using fractal long‐range correlations of behavioural sequences. The health status of 13 chimpanzees in the Mahale Mountains National Park, Tanzania was evaluated non‐invasively using standard behavioural observation and parasitological analysis of stool samples. Based on these data, individuals were classified as being either healthy or sick. Behavioural sequences were analysed and shown to exhibit long‐range power law correlations. The behavioural sequences of individuals in healthy and sick states were quantitatively evaluated using detrended fluctuation analysis of social and non‐social behaviours within behavioural sequences. These values were compared and significant differences in long‐range correlations were found between health states. Sex differences were also noted, with female social behaviour displaying a larger fractal dimension than male social behaviour. The fractal dimension of females declined significantly in sick individuals. This analysis of behaviour provides a new and effective non‐invasive method to record and evaluate the general state of health and related stress of animals in the wild. Possible applications of this method in captive situations include the monitoring and evaluating of stress levels over time.
Seasonality and Hormonal Control of Territorial Aggression in Female Song Sparrows (Passeriformes: Emberizidae: Melospiza melodia)
Authors: Elekonich Michelle M. , Wingfield John C.
Published: March 2003

Male and female song sparrows perform similar aggressive behaviors including flights, wing‐wave threat displays, and growls. Females very rarely sing, however. To investigate the seasonal variation and hormonal control of territorial aggression in females, we simulated female intrusions during the pre‐breeding, breeding and post‐molt seasons in the field. Circulating levels of testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, estradiol, progesterone and corticosterone in females experiencing simulated intrusion were compared to those of passively netted females matched for breeding stage. Female aggressive responses to female intrusion dropped from the pre‐breeding to the post‐molt seasons. Levels of circulating androgens were significantly higher in control females than in females experiencing a simulated intrusion. There were no significant differences in any of the other hormones measured. Although song sparrow female‐female aggression appears to be behaviorally similar to male‐male aggression, the seasonal variation and hormonal support of aggression differ between the sexes.
A Method for Simulating Signal Evolution Using Real Animals
Authors: Forkman Björn , Enquist Magnus
Published: March 2003

We studied response biases to visual stimulation using a new experimental technique. The subjects (hens, Gallus gallus domesticus) were confronted with several rewarding and non‐rewarding patterns on a computer screen. In contrast with standard discrimination tasks the rewarding patterns were not identical and varied in a dimension differentiating them from the non‐rewarding patterns. The rewarding patterns changed in response to hens' biases in selection of patterns. The aim of the study was to examine the possibility of receivers being a driving force in signal evolution. In one of the experiments a clear‐cut result was obtained. During the course of the experiment the rewarding patterns became gradually more different from the non‐rewarding one, a result expected from theoretical studies of the effect of response bias in signal evolution. A second similar experiment was less conclusive, with ceiling and floor effects influencing the results.
Distraction Displays in Meadow Pipit (Anthus pratensis) Females in Central and Northern Europe
Authors: Pavel Václav , Bureš Stanislav , Weidinger Karel , Kovařík Petr
Published: March 2003

Distraction displays to a human were studied in the Meadow Pipit (Anthus pratensis) females in Central (Jeseníky Mountains–Czech Republic; 50°N 17°E) and Northern European mountains (Tydal area–Central Norway; 63°N 12°E) between 1995 and 1998. Three risk‐dependent variables were scored and we found that flushing and settling distances of pipit females decreased with increasing intensity of display both in the Central and the Northern Europe locations. Parental risk taking did not markedly differ between studied populations, although, in particular, larger brood size and reduced opportunity to re‐nest should contribute to a higher intensity of nest defence in the Northern than in the Central European mountains. Moreover, the level of risk taken was not significantly dependent on the air temperature, age of brood and brood size in both study areas, when compared separately. These results do not support the findings of most previous studies on nest defence in birds. Possible causes of our contradictory results are discussed with respect to the reproductive value and the feedback hypotheses.
Attraction and Repellence of Workers by the Honeybee Queen (Apis mellifera L.)
Authors: Moritz Robin F. A. , Crewe Robin M. , Hepburn H. Randall
Published: March 2003

The spatial distribution of worker honeybees in colonies of two African subspecies (Apis mellifera capensis and Apis mellifera scutellata), as well as their natural hybrids, was determined in five observation colonies, each containing one frame. The queens were allowed to roam freely throughout the hive during the initial phase of the experiment, and were observed on both sides of the frame in all colonies. In the second phase of the experiment the queen was caged on one side of the frame in three of the observation colonies, the other two colonies serving as controls. Queen caging significantly affected the distribution of worker bees, with more A. m. scutellata workers being attracted to the queen and more A. m. capensis worker bees being repelled by the presence of the queen. The hybrid workers were also repelled, but to a lesser extent. Queens thus not only attract workers to form a retinue or during swarming but also repel workers in the nest. Evasion of the reproductive suppression by the queen pheromones may be a typical behavior for workers with a high reproductive potential.
The Scent of Genetic Compatibility: Sexual Selection and the Major Histocompatibility Complex
Authors: Penn Dustin J.
Published: March 2003

Individuals in some species prefer mates carrying dissimilar genes at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), which may function to increase the MHC or overall heterozygosity of progeny. Here I review the evidence for MHC‐dependent mating preferences from recent studies, including studies on the underlying olfactory mechanisms and evolutionary functions. Many studies indicate that MHC genes influence odour, and some work is beginning to examine the potential role of MHC‐linked olfactory receptor genes in mating preferences. MHC‐dependent mating preference increases the MHC‐heterozygosity of progeny, which is suspected to confer resistance to infectious diseases. In humans, heterozygosity at MHC loci is associated with increased resistance to hepatitis and HIV infections, but experimental evidence for the heterozygote advantage hypothesis has been lacking. Here I re‐analyse data from previously published experimental infection studies with mice. I show that although overdominance is rare, resistance is often dominant, suggesting that heterozygotes are often protected. A second (nonmutually exclusive) possibility is that MHC‐disassortative mating preferences promotes inbreeding avoidance. This hypothesis is supported by recent evidence that MHC genes play a role in kin recognition, and that mating with close kin has rather deleterious fitness consequences. In conclusion, I discuss other ways that MHC genes might influence sexual selection. The research on MHC‐mediated mating preferences is integrating the study of animal behaviour with other seemingly disparate fields, including sensory biology and immunogenetics.
The Significance of Ecological Factors for Exploration and Neophobia in Parrots
Authors: Mettke‐Hofmann Claudia , Winkler Hans , Leisler Bernd
Published: March 2003

Exploratory behaviour plays an important role in most animals for gathering information about their environment. If it constitutes an adaptation to different environmental conditions exploratory behaviour should differ between species. This has been tested with several hypotheses.

Sixty‐one parrot species (Psittacidae) from eight tribes with different diets and habitat preferences were investigated in aviaries. Two tests were carried out. First, a novel object (wooden ring) in the familiar aviary was presented on two test days in the exploration test. Latencies until first contact with the object and the duration of exploration were recorded. Secondly, in the neophobia test, novel objects were placed beside the feeding dish and latencies until first food intake were recorded.

The exploration and neophobia data were related to 12 (13) ecological variables using multiple regression analyses. Phylogenetic relationships were considered.

Species that inhabit complex habitats, such as forest edges, or that feed on buds or species from islands showed the shortest latencies in the exploration test. In contrast, long latencies were related to a diet including a great amount of seeds and/or flowers. The longest duration of exploration occurred in species eating nuts or originating from islands, whereas short durations were related to feeding on seeds. Neophobia was positively related to a diet consisting of insects, and negatively to a diet of leaves. There was no relationship between measures of exploration and neophobia. Exploration and neophobia seem to be tightly related to the ecology of a species.
The Function of Mounting Behaviour in Farmed Red Deer Calves
Authors: Ková Dominika Vaň , Bartoš Luděk
Published: March 2003

The function of mounting behaviour was studied in farmed red deer (Cervus elaphus) calves. On the basis of previous work, we tested two alternative hypotheses about the function of this behaviour. The first hypothesis deals with the proximate function of the behaviour. Three predictions were tested: (1a) mounting behaviour attracts the attention of the mother and/or consolidates the mother–calf bond; (1b) mounting is intended to obtain more milk; (1c) mounting is intended to prevent other calves from sucking from the mother. The second hypothesis deals with an ultimate function in practising for future life with two predictions tested: (2a) mounting behaviour is part of calves' play behaviour promoting development of the calf's locomotor and social skills; (2b) calves gain sexual experience through mounting behaviour. For the study, 50 hind‐calf pairs were observed. The maternity of individual hinds was confirmed by a genetical analysis. The hinds were classified as ‘maternal’ and ‘non‐maternal’ and the calves as ‘filial’ and ‘non‐filial’. We recorded 40 cases of mounting behaviour involving 25 hinds and 21 calves. Our results suggest that the mounting behaviour of red deer calves serves several different functions depending on the circumstances. In association with suckling, calves of both sexes mounted maternal hinds mainly to attract their attention and to achieve another suckling. In situations not associated with suckling, mounting by male calves might be considered part of their sexual training. On the other hand, mounting by female calves probably reflects the attempt to maintain contact with their mother in tense situations.
What Females Tell Males About Their Reproductive Status: Are Morphological and Behavioural Cues Reliable Signals of Ovulation in Bonobos (Pan paniscus)?
Authors: Reichert Karin E. , Heistermann Michael , Keith Hodges J. , Boesch Christophe , Hohmann Gottfried
Published: March 2003

In many Old World primate species, female attractivity increases during the tumescent phase of the sexual swelling for a period that lasts considerably longer than oestrus‐related attractivity in other mammals. We examined the reliability of the swelling as an indicator of ovulation in captive bonobos, a species with a long and variable phase of maximum tumescence. Using a combined approach of (1) observations of sexual behaviour, (2) visual scoring of the sexual swelling and (3) analysis of faecal progestin to assess the timing of ovulation during 23 ovulatory cycles of eight adult females, we found that in 30% of these cycles the presumed day of ovulation did not fall within the period of maximum tumescence. When ovulation did occur during maximum swelling, it was more closely related to the end rather than the onset of the maximum swelling period. However, the pattern of sexual swelling was not a reliable indicator of ovulation. In addition, sexual behaviour of both sexes increased in frequency with the degree of the swelling but not around the time of ovulation. We conclude that swellings in bonobos provide honest information on the probability of ovulation, but not its exact timing, and that therefore the `obvious ovulation'‐hypothesis cannot explain the function of sexual swellings in bonobos.
Does Feeding Competition Influence Tammar Wallaby Time Allocation?
Authors: Blumstein Daniel T. , Daniel Janice C. , Ardron Jodie G. , Evans Christopher S.
Published: March 2003

Animals may aggregate to reduce predation risk, but this potentially incurs the cost of increased competition. We studied the degree to which competition for food influenced the time tammar wallabies (Macropus eugenii) allocate to foraging and vigilance by experimentally manipulating access to food, while holding other factors constant. Groups of six wallabies were observed when they had access to either one or six non‐depleting bins of supplemental food. Food availability had no effect on the time allocated to foraging, looking or affiliative interactions, and this was true whether individuals or groups were treated as the unit of analysis. However, wallabies engaged in substantially more aggressive acts in the high‐competition treatment. These results, when combined with other findings, suggest that the moderately social tammar wallaby receives an antipredator benefit by aggregating with conspecifics which is not reduced significantly by foraging competition.
New hosts of Cristulariella depraedans
Authors: Lang K. J.
Published: March 2003

In addition to the known host species of Cristulariella depraedans in Europe, 21 new hosts, including eight woody species, are recorded. The different symptoms, which depend on the host species, are described.
The impact of Sirococcus shoot blight on radial and height growth of Norway spruce (Picea abies) in young plantations
Authors: Halmschlager E. , Gabler A. , Andrae F.
Published: March 2003

The impact of Sirococcus shoot blight on the radial and height growth of Norway spruce in a young plantation (approximately 20 years old) was investigated by examining the increment losses for four infection intensities (classes). The average diameter at breast height of trees in the lightly damaged class was 72% when compared with the average diameter of the healthy trees, whereas moderately and severely damaged tree classes were 67 and 57%, respectively. Using tree ring analysis, the development of radial growth over time due to intensity of infection was studied. Height growth of affected trees was also significantly reduced (up to 43%) compared with the healthy trees, thus indicating a dramatic impact of Sirococcus conigenus on the growth of young Norway spruce.
The effect of periderm formation in the cortex of Pinus thunbergii on early invasion by the pinewood nematode
Authors: Ichihara Y. , Fukuda K. , Suzuki K.
Published: March 2003

The distribution of cortical resin canals and periderm formation in the cortex of Pinus thunbergii was studied in relation to early invasion of the pinewood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus. Nematode invasion was restricted in stem cuttings of P. thunbergii in which periderm closed cortical resin canals. Early invasion of the nematodes was also restricted in stem cuttings where wound periderm had formed in response to prior nematode inoculation. It was concluded that early invasion of pinewood nematodes in living bark tissue is restricted by periderm in mature stems and by wound periderm that had formed as the result of previous nematode infection.
Effect of Betula pendula clone and leaf age on Melampsoridium betulinum rust infection in a field trial
Authors: Poteri  , Helander  , Saikkonen  , Elamo
Published: March 2003

Ten 5‐year‐old Betula pendula clones were studied for their rust resistance in the field. The trees were treated by inoculating 10 leaves on a shoot with Melampsoridium betulinum urediniospore suspension or spraying the control leaves with water. The birch clones differed significantly in their resistance to M. betulinum leaf rust fungus and the clones also varied in their responses to the local rust strain and the inoculated rust strains. However, natural rust infections and inoculation treatment were positively correlated. The older leaves had fewer infections than the younger ones on the tip of the shoot in the control trees, but in the inoculation treatment no significant correlation was found between the leaf ages and rust infection. The factors behind the different leaf susceptibilities are discussed.
Quantification of Phaeocryptopus gaeumannii colonization in Douglas‐fir needles by ergosterol analysis
Authors: Manter  , Kelsey  , Stone
Published: March 2003

Current assessments of infection levels of Phaeocryptopus gaeumannii, the incitant pathogen of Swiss needle cast disease on Pseudotsuga menziesii, typically rely on surveys of abundance of fruit bodies on diseased needles. The relationship between this measure and internal fungal colonization is unknown. In this article, a series of experiments to determine whether ergosterol can be used to quantify P. gaeumannii internal colonization within Douglas‐fir needles is reported. It was found that ergosterol content in seven commonly occurring Douglas‐fir foliar fungi is proportionally related to biomass, and in P. gaeumannii this relationship is not affected by age of the culture. Furthermore, at four sites tested, P. gaeumannii was the most common fungus species isolated from Douglas‐fir needles, accounting for approximately 50% of the isolations. Ergosterol content in these needles was best related to P. gaeumannii despite the presence of other fungi. The strong relationship between ergosterol and P. gaeumannii is attributed to its greater contribution to total fungal biomass compared with all other fungi present within Douglas‐fir needles.
Effect of plantation design on stem‐infecting form of rust in willow biomass coppice
Authors: HUNTER T. , PEACOCK L. , TURNER H. , BRAIN P.
Published: March 2003

Planting of genotype mixtures is a major strategy for the non‐chemical control of willow rust in short‐rotation coppice willows grown for biomass. In 1997 and 1998, the relative severity and spatiotemporal distribution of stem canker damage by Melampsora spp. on Salix viminalis `Bowles Hybrid' in a field trial containing monocultures and two design mixtures (random or regular) of three or five genotypes were assessed. Sphaerellopsis filum, a hyperparasite of Melampsora spp. was detected in all plots during the summer (1998) between the time of the two canker assessments. The percentage of rust pustules with this hyperparasite was initially greater in monoculture plantings than in mixtures in June, but by July, more than 92% of pustules were parasitized, irrespective of plantation design. The stem rust assessments showed that, in general, there were fewer cankers per stool in plots containing mixtures of willow genotypes compared with monoculture plantings. The distribution of rust cankers was different between monocultures and willow mixture designs, with differences between years for monocultures.
Anisogramma virgultorum on saplings of Betula pendula and Betula pubescens in a district of northern Sweden
Authors: WITZELL J. , KARLSSON A.
Published: March 2003

During the autumn of 1999, the occurrence of the ascomycete Anisogramma virgultorum on saplings of Betula pubescens and Betula pendula was studied in two stands of B. pubescens, two stands of B. pendula and two mixed (B. pubescens and Pinus sylvestris) stands (age approximately 10 years, mean height 2–4 m, d.b.h. 10–20 mm) in a district in the vicinity of Umeå, northern Sweden. Stem and branch cankers associated with A. virgultorum were found on 54.8% of the investigated saplings, without significant difference between B. pendula and B. pubescens. Cankers were observed on 16.0% of stems and on branches of 54.2% of the saplings. Stem cankers appeared on the current year's shoot, as well as at the base of the trees. The mean diameter of the damaged saplings was significantly greater than the mean diameter of undamaged saplings. All samples of cankers with stromata examined in the laboratory showed perithecia with asci.
First report of the seed‐pathogen Geniculodendron pyriforme, the imperfect state of the ascomycete Caloscypha fulgens, on imported conifer seeds in Germany
Authors: SCHRÖDER T. , KEHR R. , HÜTTERMANN A.
Published: March 2003

The seed pathogen fungus Geniculodendron pyriforme (teleomorphic state: Caloscypha fulgens) was isolated from imported seeds (USA and Canada) of the following tree species: Picea sitchensis, Piceaengelmannii, Abies grandis and Abies concolor glauca. This is the first report of G. pyriforme on imported conifer seeds in continental Europe. A description of typical culture characteristics of the fungus is given.
Losses caused by the needle blight fungusDelphinella abietisin a greenery trial of Nobel fir in western Norway
Authors: Solheim H. , Skage J.‐O.
Published: March 2003

In a greenery trial of Nobel fir (Abies procera) in western Norway, most branches had good quality until 1994 when 31% of the branches were discarded. Since then a high level of losses has been noted and 87% were discarded in 2000. A survey in 1998 revealed that the needle blight fungusDelphinella abietiswas the main cause. It seems that frost did not initiate or maintain the disease in the stand, but generally low temperatures may have been important. Discarded branches with the fungus have been left on the ground and have probably been important in maintaining a high level of attack.
Lisa’s lessons: A case study of mental health teaching and learning
Authors: McAllister Margaret
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT
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Practical approaches to the educational preparation of mental health nurses need to be shared in order to contribute to discipline development. This paper presents the results of an ethnographic study using case study and educational criticism to explore mental health classrooms and share practical approaches to teaching.
The emancipation of nursing practice: Applying anti‐psychiatry to the therapeutic community
Authors: O'Brien Anthony Paul , Woods Martin , Palmer Christine
Published: March 2003

This paper raises issues about the process and conduct of clinical relationships with people diagnosed as mentally ill who live in therapeutic communities. This clinical work is of particular importance in the late 1990s due to the changing socio‐cultural climate of interaction with people living with mental illness. This climate has a focus of care on recovery in the community and not on long‐term hospitalization. The paper takes the position of anti‐psychiatry as a preferred model of intervention because it is person and not diagnosis oriented. The nature of the therapeutic community is explored in relation to its importance in the context of destigmatizing mental illness, its structure, and in its ability to empower the person from a philosophically driven and experiential perspective.
NEONATAL CEREBRAL INFARCTION: AN UNDER RECOGNISED/UNRECONISED CAUSE OF NEONATAL SEIZURES?
Authors: Kishore Kumar R.
Published: March 2003

Neonatal cerebral infarction or neonatal stroke is a well recognised cause of neonatal seizures. The awareness of its existence among healthcare workers is low and it is not even mentioned as a cause of neonatal seizures in most books. Many of the affected neonates are well, without any evidence of neurological disturbances between seizures. Awareness of its existence among healthcare workers is critical for the diagnosis of this problem. Early diagnosis can lead to early intervention, which may mean a better prognosis for these children.
CASE MANAGEMENT: A MODEL FOR THE RECRUITMENT OF RURAL GENERAL PRACTITIONERS
Authors: MacIsaac Peter , Snowdon Teri , Thompson Rob , Wilde Tina
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT

Many strategies have been trialled to recruit GPs to rural areas and to retain them once there. The West Vic Division of General Practice, a rural division in central‐western Victoria, has developed and piloted a case management model. Case management is the holistic provision of services to meet an agreed outcome. Usually these processes are used to support clients with chronic or complex care needs. In this instance, the Division recognised that the sometimes puzzling and perplexing world of medical and provider registration, rural communities and the politics of bringing a doctor into a community requires specific skills and support. A dedicated and experienced case manager provides a continuous range of services to support the process from identification through to ongoing support within the community. The project has met with considerable success over the past 18 months, with 17 doctors placed in temporary and permanent positions.
GENDER ROLES AND GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION AS PREDICTORS OF EMOTIONAL DISTRESS IN AUSTRALIAN WOMEN
Authors: Bramston Paul , Rogers‐Clark Cathy , Hegney Desley , Bishop Janet
Published: March 2003

This paper examines the emotional distress of women in urban, rural and remote areas of Queensland. A randomised telephone survey of 394 women found that geographical location was not significantly related to perceptions of life quality or distress. Contrary to expectation, urbanisation and isolation were not significant predictors of mental health and factors other than geographical location appear more influential in determining people’s emotional wellbeing. One such factor, the gender role that women perceive themselves as fulfilling, was examined in this study and found to be significantly related to emotional distress. Women who saw their role as being submissive, dependent, gentle and timid reported significantly higher rates of distress and women perceiving themselves as bossy, rude and superior reported higher stress, irrespective of where they lived. Scores for the positive gender role of being sensitive, emotional and responsible grew significantly higher as the respondents became more rural/remote. Conversely, scores in the bossy, rude and superior domain were significantly higher in urban areas. This paper discusses the limitations of health research using global urban/rural classification schemes based on size of town or distance from major centres. There is mounting evidence that geographically based classification schemes are essentially minimalist and that more complex grouping variables such as gender role need to be identified.
Meningococcal Infections and Meningitis: What is New?
Authors: Kumar R. Kishore
Published: March 2003

Meningococcal infection is one of the very few severe bacterial infections, in this era, that still can kill a relatively healthy child within minutes. Fortunately, it is a relatively rare disease. Rural practitioners may see one affected child once every 2–3 years, but once seen they will never forget it. The present article gives some examples of case scenarios along with a brief overview of the problem, with emphasis on early diagnosis, prevention and possible future developments.
THINKING ABOUT A MOBILE HEALTH UNIT TO DELIVER SERVICES? THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING
Authors: Muolavie Deborah , Busby Angeline , Peterson Janice , Stullenbarger Elizabeth
Published: March 2003

Purchasing a mobile unit to deliver health‐care services can be an expensive undertaking for anyone interested in pursuing this option. Yet, little information is found in the literature on planning or designing such vehicles. A set of guidelines could help administrators to make better decisions regarding this approach for delivering healthcare. This article focuses on mobile health units (MHU). It provides a synthesis of the literature in addition to information from written and oral correspondence with the chief executive officers (CEO) of firms that manufacture MHU. On‐site visits to agencies using an MHU were made by one of the authors (DM) to glean their perspective. The combined sources led to the development of guidelines and checklists that can assist administrators in planning the function, design and operation of an MHU to deliver health‐care services to remote rural sites.
Rural practice evaluation: how do rural physicians evaluate their working conditions?
Authors: Matsumoto Masatoshi , Inoue Kazuo , Kajii Eiji
Published: March 2003

Evaluating the quality of rural doctors’ working conditions is essential for retaining physicians in rural areas. We carried out a trial to investigate those aspects of working conditions that are important to rural physicians and with which aspects they are satisfied or dissatisfied. Questionnaires were mailed to 204 doctors who were working in rural clinics in Japan. The professional conditions of rural clinic practices were classified into 17 items. The doctors were then asked to evaluate the importance of and degree of satisfaction with each item. Among the 17 items, the clinic’s equipment, the municipal government’s attitude and the base hospital were evaluated to be more important than the overall average. With regard to satisfaction, the distance to major cities, the municipal government’s attitude and locum availability were rated significantly lower than that overall. There were some items where there was a discrepancy between the importance and the degree of satisfaction. Identifying these discrepancies may contribute to creating an environment that will raise the level of rural physicians’ satisfaction.