bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Bivalved Arthropod from the Early Cambrian Sirius Passet Fauna, North Greenland
Authors: Taylor Rod S.
Published: November 2003

A new bivalved arthropod is described from the Lower Cambrian (?Upper Atdabanian) Buen Formation of North Greenland. Pauloterminus spinodorsalis gen. et sp. nov. possesses a bivalved carapace that covers the head, which has a single pair of antennae, and anteriormost thorax. No mouthparts are visible. The five‐segmented abdomen was limbless and terminated in a telson plus a pair of large, lobate uropods. A suite of at least six biramous thoracic limbs are present: the short endopods are made up of small, serial podomeres, while the exopods are lobate and may have functioned as gills as well as in swimming. Partially infilled guts are occasionally visible, suggesting that this animal may have been a sediment feeder. It is compared to other Cambrian bivalved arthropods, especially the waptiids Chuandianella ovata from the Lower Cambrian Chengjiang fauna (China) and Waptia fieldensis from the Middle Cambrian Burgess Shale (British Columbia). Of these three animals, the Greenland and Chinese taxa appear to be the most closely related. P. spinodorsalis possesses many typical arthropod features, but it also demonstrates more primitive characters that are more reminiscent of the lobopodians.
Cyclopygid Trilobites from the Ordovician Builth‐Llandrindod Inlier, Central Wales
Authors: Owens R. M.
Published: November 2003

Cyclopygids are a minor element in the abundant trilobite fauna of the Ordovician Llanfawr Mudstones Formation (teretiusculus–gracilis biozones) of the Builth‐Llandrindod inlier. The rarity of these trilobites may be due to the accumulation of these sediments close to the shoreward limit of their depth range, and if this is the case, their presence, together with sedimentological evidence, can be used to infer the bathymetric limits within which the Llanfawr Mudstones Formation might have been deposited. Species of Degamella, Microparia (Microparia), Microparia (Heterocyclopyge), Sagavia and Emmrichops are described; some are common to the Dobrotivá Formation in Bohemia, whilst others have affinities with species from approximately coeval strata in Kazakhstan and north‐west China.
The Jurassic Bivalve Genus Placunopsis: New Evidence On Anatomy and Affinities
Authors: Todd Jonathan A. , Palmer Timothy J.
Published: November 2003

The Jurassic bivalve genus Placunopsis Morris and Lycett, 1853 is shown to be an anomiid on account of the detailed anatomy of its hitherto unknown right valve and the corresponding musculature in the left valve. Herein the most appropriate choice for type species is considered to be P. inaequalis (Phillips, 1829), which accommodates a number of the larger Late Jurassic nominal species. A species from the English Bathonian previously confused with P. inaequalis is described as P. fuersichi sp. nov. Placunopsis inaequalis is shown to be closely related to Recent Pododesmus, which has previously been interpreted as the most ‘primitive’ of the extant anomiids on the basis of its anatomy. There is thus no need to retain a separate family for the genus, as has been proposed by some workers. The distinct small species P. socialis Morris and Lycett, 1853 can also be assigned to the anomiids on the basis of the differences between the structure of the outer layers in the two valves, and the presence of a byssal foramen. There is some suggestion of calcification of the byssus, but not enough detail is known of its musculature to justify transferring it to the genus Juranomia Fürsich and Werner, 1989 at this stage. The cemented bivalves traditionally referred to Placunopsis that are so common in the European Muschelkalk (Triassic) are not anomiids and thus require systematic revision.
Some Silurian Brachiopods from Lithuania and Their Palaeobiogeographical Significance
Authors: Musteikis Petras , Modzalevskaya Tatyana L.
Published: November 2003

Silurian brachiopods are described from 21 boreholes in Lithuania. Nine genera are recognized and represented by one or two species, including the atrypids Atrypoidea, Cromatrypa, Lissatrypa and Septatrypa, athyridids Collarothyris, Nucleospira, Meristina and Pseudoprotathyris, and rhynchonellids Ancillotoechia and Plagiorhyncha. Two new species, Cromatrypa? pubes and Lissatrypa lithuanica, are described. The same taxa are reported from England, Gotland, Belarus and Podolia in Wenlock and Ludlow strata, and from Podolia, Urals, the Canadian Arctic archipelago and Russian Arctic islands in Prídolí strata.
Structural–functional Aspects in the Evolution of Operculate Corals (Rugosa)
Authors: Gudo Michael
Published: November 2003

Among the Rugosa operculae were developed by only a few genera. One is the slipper–shaped Calceola and another is the pyramidal shaped Goniophyllum. On the basis of biological and morphological knowledge of recent corals, the two different bauplans of the soft bodies of Calceola and Goniophyllum have been reconstructed. The soft body (i.e. the polyp) of a rugose coral is thought to have all the basic structures of anthozoan polyps: a barrel–like body shape, a flat oral disc with tentacles, and a mouth from which a pharynx reaches inside the gastric cavity. Furthermore, as in all Anthozoa, Rugosa had internal mesenteries that act as tensile cords; during growth in the diameter further mesenteries were inserted. In contrast to all other Anthozoa, in the Rugosa new single mesenteries were added in four insertion sectors. The bauplans of Calceola and Goniophyllum differ in the pattern of mesentery insertion into these four sectors. Calceola had a serial insertion pattern and Goniophyllum had a symmetrical insertion pattern. They are representatives of the two different bauplans within the Rugosa. The lid corals are examples of convergent evolved genera; Calceola as well as Goniophyllum originated by quite simple modifications of the ancestral type. The peculiar shapes, the operculae and especially the straight hinges between the calyx and the lid(s) result only from mechanical necessity. Under special conditions (such as high sedimentation rates) these modifications of the corallites represent suitable tactics for survival.
Upper Aptian–albian Rudist Bivalves from Northern Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Steuber Thomas , Bachmann Martina
Published: November 2003

Rudist bivalves are described from two Upper Aptian–Albian sections in northern Sinai, Egypt. Independent stratigraphical evidence is provided by orbitolinid foraminifera and sequence stratigraphic correlation with other, ammonite–bearing sections of the region. With the exception of Eoradiolites liratus (Conrad) and Sellaea, this is the first record of Lower Cretaceous rudists from Egypt. A rather continuous occurrence of rudists is recorded in the more open marine deposit at Rizan Aneiza, but they occur only in the Middle–Upper Albian at Gebel Raghawi to the south–west. In the uppermost Aptian to basal Middle Albian at Rizan Aneiza, the succession of Eoradiolites plicatus–E. murgensis–E. liratus is interpreted as a lineage of chronospecies. Of particular interest is the presence of canaliculate rudists in the Upper Albian of both sections, as there exists a large gap, spanning the Upper Aptian and most parts of the Albian, in the fossil record of the Caprininae d’Orbigny. Neocaprina raghawiensis sp. nov. and Neocaprina? sp. are recognized as ancestors of Cenomanian species of Neocaprina Pleničar and Caprinula d’Orbigny. The inclusion of these genera in the Caprininae d’Orbigny is questioned and the phylogenetic descent from an unidentified Albian taxon with well–developed myophoral cavities is suggested.
Shell Structure And Inferred Growth, Functions And Affinities Of The Sclerites Of The Problematic Micrina
Authors: Williams Alwyn , Holmer Lars E.
Published: November 2003

The stratiform laminae of Micrina sclerites originally consisted of rheomorphic successions of monolayers of micrometric–sized, apatitic tablets, presumably interleaved with chitin and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Paired laminae enclose slot–like chambers swelling into lobes distally that originally contained GAGs and deposits of spherulitic and prismatic apatite. The laminae are pervaded by apatitic tubes, apparently secreted by microvillous setoblasts and containing, at the surface, chitinous setae. Internal markings suggest that the triangular (sellate) sclerite supported a pair of muscles and the planospiral (mitral) sclerite, a medial muscle and gonadal sacs flanked by a pair of crescentic muscle bases. Both sclerites were secreted by a mantle with a circumferential fold. The sellate and mitral sclerites are homologized with the anterior and posterior shells of Halkieria and could have become the dorsal and ventral valves of the ancestral brachiopod by a sequence of transformations. These include: the folding of the halkieriid body axis; accelerated mixoperipheral growth of the anterior (dorsal) shell to enclose, with the posterior (ventral) shell, a mantle cavity lined with modified ciliated epithelium of the foot; reduction of sclerite–secreting epithelium to the locus of the brachiopod pedicle epithelium; and the anterior (dorsal) spread of gonadal lamellae.
Occluded Umbilicus In The Pinacitinae (Devonian) And Its Palaeoecological Implications
Authors: Klug Christian , Korn Dieter
Published: November 2003

Eifelian (Middle Devonian) ammonoids of the Pinacitinae Hyatt, 1900 (Exopinacites, Pinacites)with preserved shell structures from the eastern Anti–Atlas (Morocco) have revealed unusual morphological features. The Pinacitinae belong to the earliest ammonoids which closed their umbilici. As an approach to an interpretation of these structures, the representatives of the subfamily Pinacitinae (Exopinacites singularis, Pinacites jugleri, P. eminens) are compared with other ammonoids, e.g. Acrimeroceras, Araucanites, Clistoceras, Gaudryceras, Nathorstites, Prolobites, and Synpharciceras, which produced umbilical plugs and covers. Some of these are comparable in structure to Nautilus pompilius and N. belauensis. In contrast to all of these taxa, the lateral shell wall of the Pinacitinae reached the centre of the umbilicus and formed an umbilical lid. The umbilical shell wall rests on the umbilical lid of the previous whorl. This construction probably had the advantage that it improved the hydrodynamic properties of the conch, along with the oxyconic conch shape and the approximately horizontal orientation of the aperture.
A New Naked Jawless Vertebrate From The Middle Devonian Of Scotland
Authors: Newman M. J.
Published: November 2003

A new jawless vertebrate, Achanarella trewini gen. et sp. nov., is described from some recently discovered, relatively well–preserved specimens from the Achanarras fish bed at Achanarras Quarry, northern Scotland. The Achanarras fish bed is of Middle Devonian (Eifelian) age. Achanarella is a torpedo–shaped jawless vertebrate with a strongly hypocercal tail and well–developed anal fin. It has at least 13 branchial openings with possibly more than 20. It is scaleless. Achanarella compares well with the Frasnian Euphaneropidae of the Escuminac Formation in Quebec, Canada, and Cornovichthys blaauweni Newman and Trewin, 2001, also from the Achanarras fish bed. It differs from these forms mainly in being extremely long and thin and having a very small head compared with body length.
The Palaeobiogeography Of Silurian Ramphoprionid Polychaete Annelids
Authors: Eriksson M.
Published: November 2003

Silurian palaeobiogeography of the Ramphoprionidae (Annelida; Polychaeta) is outlined. Members of the family are reported from northern Europe (Estonia, Sweden and England), the Russian Arctic (Severnaya Zemlya), and the Canadian Arctic (Baillie–Hamilton Island). These areas were located fairly close to the palaeoequator during the Silurian and a faunal exchange is indicated by the broad, intercontinental distribution of the family. A few taxa may, however, have been endemic. Ramphoprionids had long stratigraphical ranges and were generally fairly rare during the Silurian, infrequently exceeding ten per cent of the jawed polychaete faunas.
The taxonomy and stratigraphical significance of the Anglo–Welsh Cryptolithinae (Trinucleidae, Trilobita)
Authors: Bowdler–Hicks Alison , Ingham J. Keith , Owen Alan W.
Published: November 2003

The taxonomic status of the stratigraphically–important Caradoc genera Salterolithus Bancroft, 1929, Broeggerolithus Lamont, 1935 and Smeathenia Dean, 1960 and the species therein is critically reviewed. The radial alignment patterns of the fringe pits within the E arcs are used to distinguish Salterolithus from Broeggerolithus; fringe morphology and pit counts are used to distinguish species within these genera. ‘Broeggerolithus’harnagensis is reassigned to Salterolithus and S. praecursor, S. caractaci paucus and Smeathenia smeathenensis are all regarded as junior synonyms of Salterolithus harnagensis. This revision of the Anglo–Welsh Cryptolithinae reveals the evolution of morphologically very variable populations and environmentally constrained morphotypes and species. Eight species and subspecies of Salterolithus and Broeggerolithus are retained and redescribed and their stratigraphical distribution in the Caradoc of Britain, Ireland, Belgium and Scandinavia is clarified.
The first isophlebioid dragonfly (Odonata: Isophlebioptera: Campterophlebiidae) from the Mesozoic of China
Authors: Fleck G. , Nel A.
Published: November 2003

Bellabrunetia catherinae gen. et sp. nov., the first Chinese Mesozoic isophlebioid dragonfly, is described. This fossil is the first known Isophlebioptera with well–preserved body structures, demonstrating that the fore– and hindwings are of very different size and shape in Campterophlebiidae, and that the female Campterophlebiidae had an endophytic way of oviposition, unlike the Isophlebiidae.
An Early Devonian arthropod fauna from the Windyfield cherts, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
Authors: Anderson Lyall I. , Trewin Nigel H.
Published: November 2003

New terrestrial and freshwater arthropods are described from the Windyfield cherts, a suite of silicified sinters deposited 700m north‐east of the Rhynie cherts and part of the same Early Devonian hot‐spring complex. The diverse assemblage consists of Heterocrania rhyniensis (Hirst and Maulik, 1926a), here recognized as a euthycarcinoid; scutigeromorph centipede material assigned to Crussolum sp.; the crustacean Lepidocaris; trigonotarbid arachnids; a new arthropod of myriapod affinities named Leverhulmia mariae gen. et sp. nov.; and the distinctively ornamented arthropod cuticle of Rhynimonstrum dunlopi gen. et sp. nov. The Leverhulmia animal preserves gut content identifying it as an early terrestrial detritivore. Abundant coprolites of similar composition and morphology to the gut contents of the euthycarcinoid crowd the matrix. Chert texture, faunal associations, and study of modern analogues strongly suggest that the terrestrial arthropods were ubiquitous Early Devonian forms with no particular special adaptation to localized conditions around the terrestrial hot‐spring vents. The aquatic arthropods represent biota from ephemeral cool‐water pools in the vicinity of the hot‐spring vents.
New information on cranial and dental features of the Triassic archosauriform reptile Euparkeria capensis
Authors: Senter Phil
Published: November 2003

The course of the nasolacrimal duct, interdental plate morphology, and most details of tooth and denticle morphology have not previously been described in non–archosauriform reptilkes. Here I describe these details in the Triassic archosauriform Euparkeria capensis. The nasolacrimal canal opens orbitally via a pair of foramina between the lacrimal and prefrontal. The canal arches over the antorbital fenestra, as in archosaurs. The term ‘interdental unit’ is introduced for the unit composed of an interdental septum and its accompanying interdental plate. There is no demarcation between interdental plate and septum in E. capensis. The interdental units are heavily pitted on exposed surfaces. Like teeth, they are implanted in the dental groove and are separate from the surrounding bone and from each other. They are well positioned to serve as spacers between teeth, and to resist sagittal forces on teeth during prey capture. The teeth of E. capensis are labiolingually compressed, except for the nearly conical premaxillary teeth and mesialmost dentary tooth. Lateral teeth are serrated on mesial and distal keels. The denticles are low, rounded, and separated by grooves, and are slightly larger on the distal keel. Tooth morphology suggests carnivorous habits for Euparkeria.
Shell repair and mode of life of Praenatica gregaria (Gastropoda) from the Devonian of Bohemia (Czech Republic)
Authors: Lindström Anna , Peel John S.
Published: November 2003

Repaired shell injuries occuring in less than four per cent of examined specimens of the platyceratid gastropod Praenatica gregaria (Barrande, in Perner 1903) from the Lower Devonian (Pragian) of Bohemia probably result from non–lethal predatory attacks. The low frequency may reflect the resistance of the large, smooth, rapidly expanding shell to attack, but a high rate of fatal attacks could produce the same pattern. The habit of some platyceratid gastropods living on echinoderm calices may provide a refuge from benthic predators, but conclusive evidence for this mode of life in P. gregaria or the general assumption of platyceratid coprophagy is lacking.
From CT scans of embedded Ivanovia to models using rapid prototyping
Authors: Torres Andrew M. , Christensen Andrew M. , Masters Timothy E. , Ketcham Richard A.
Published: November 2003

A limestone cube from Tunisia with embedded thalli of the Permian, coenocytic, cyathiform green alga, Ivanovia tebagaensis, was CT (computed tomography) scanned as a nondestructive method to study some of its morphological features. Two sets of scans were used to make three physical three‐dimensional models of Ivanovia structures by rapid prototyping stereolithography or layer manufacturing: (1) an asexual reproductive bud using the initial medical CT scans; (2) a cyathiform thallus with an attached bud and a second cup fused to the bottom of the first; and (3) about ten per cent of the total rock volume. A set of high resolution scans was used to construct (2) and (3). Study of the models suggested new information on developmental stages of budding and the great extent of membrane connections.
Early and Mid Cambrian trilobites from the outer‐shelf deposits of Nevada and California, USA
Authors: Sundberg Frederick A. , McCollum Linda B.
Published: November 2003

A latest Early Cambrian and earliest Mid Cambrian polymeroid trilobite fauna, consisting of 16 genera and 25 species, is reported from the peritidal deposits of the Mule Spring Limestone and outer‐shelf deposits of the Emigrant and Monola formations of Nevada and California. The Mid Cambrian fauna includes a new genus, Tonopahella, and four new species, T. goldfieldensis, Oryctocephalus americanus, Onchocephalites claytonensis, and Syspacephalus variosus. The peri‐Gondwana species Oryctocephalus orientalis, Oryctocephalites runcinatus, and Paraantagmus latus are recorded in Laurentia for the first time.
Early larval ontogeny of the Permo‐Carboniferous temnospondyl Sclerocephalus
Authors: Schoch Rainer R.
Published: November 2003

The early larval development of the temnospondyl Sclerocephalus sp. is analyzed, based on 38 specimens from the Lower Rotliegend (Permo‐Carboniferous boundary) of the Saar‐Nahe Basin (south‐west Germany). The study focuses on the smallest larval specimens, which exemplify changes in both proportions and ossification patterns. In comparison with dissorophoid larvae, the skull ossifies more fully and at a much faster rate; the smallest specimens already have completely formed circumorbital bones that are sutured throughout. Sculpturing undergoes two marked changes, first from uniformly pitted to pits of variable size and regional differentiation, and finally to the origin of ridges. The palate of small larvae differs from that of larger specimens in patterns of dentition, having more teeth including a denticle field on the cultriform process. The mandible of small larvae is described for the first time, being narrower than in adults and having three dentigerous coronoid elements. The smallest specimens have poorly ossified neural arches, lack vertebral centra, and have faintly ossified humeri, femora, and very poorly developed distal elements. The posterior ribs, metapodia, and phalanges appeared after the dermal elements of the pectoral girdle, whereas the scapulocoracoid and ischium are absent throughout the larval period. Early growth and differentiation of the limbs and the ilium illustrates the developmental patterning of the appendages, which proceeded from proximal to distal. Dermal squamation is uniform in small stages, consisting of round or oval osteoderms with pronounced growth rings; in large larvae, they start to differentiate in certain body regions.
LIFE HISTORY OF COLPOMENIA SINUOSA (SYCTOSIPHONACEAE, PHAEOPHYCEAE) IN THE AZORES1
Authors: Freitas toste Marisa , Isabel parente Manuela , Isabel neto Ana , Lawson fletcher Robert
Published: November 2003

Colpomenia sinuosa (Mertens ex Roth) Derbès and Solier (Scytosiphonaceae, Phaeophyceae) is a common species on the rocky intertidal shores of the Azores, where reproductive gametophytes occur throughout the year. Life‐history studies of this species were carried out in culture, and both sexual and asexual reproduction were observed. Anisogamous gametes fused to form zygotes. The zygotes gave rise to a filamentous prostrate sporophyte generation bearing unilocular sporangia, under both short‐day and long‐day conditions at 15 and 22°C, and to both unilocular and plurilocular sporangia, under the lower temperature condition. Unispores developed into gametophytes, and plurispores gave rise to filamentous sporophytes. Asexual reproduction was carried out by unfused female gametes and asexual plurispores produced from the same gametophyte. Unfused gametes developed into filamentous prostrate sporophytes producing unilocular sporangia in both culture conditions, and unispores released from the sporangia gave rise to gametophytes. Asexual plurispores from field gametophytes, under both culture conditions, developed directly into new gametophytes. The species exhibited three types of life history: a heteromorphic, diplohaplontic; a heteromorphic, monophasic (both with alternation between the erect and filamentous prostrate thalli); and a monomorphic, monophasic.
STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS OF A POPULATION OF PALMARIA PALMATA (RHODOPHYTA) IN NORTHERN SPAIN1
Authors: Faes Vanesa A. , Viejo Rosa M.
Published: November 2003

Palmaria palmata (Linnaeus) O. Kuntze (Rhodophyta, Palmariaceae) is a seaweed commercially harvested for human consumption. Its population density, size structure, and frond dynamics were investigated from May 1999 to May 2001 at one intertidal locality in the northern coast of Spain, which is within the southern distributional boundary of the species in the eastern Atlantic coasts. The effect of size, age, and the life‐history phase (haploid vs. diploid) on frond growth and mortality were also evaluated. The study was carried out by mapping and monitoring fronds in the field. New fronds (macroscopic recruits or sprouts) appeared in spring, but subsequent mortality of these young fronds and detachment of the host plant led to lower density values in January. Palmaria palmata exhibited a distinctive seasonal growth cycle, with positive net growth from March to August and breakage from August to March. Interannual differences were also detected, with higher net growth in 2000 than in 1999. Net growth was apparently independent of age, reproductive status (fertile vs. reproductive), and life‐history phase (haploid vs. diploid) but was dependent on size, as longer fronds showed minor growth or greater breakage than small ones. Mortality, on the other hand, was more dependent on age than on size in the period analyzed (March–May 2000). Results of the study indicate that both size and age should be included as state variables and temporal changes in transition probabilities considered in the development of demographic models of the species.
HEAVY METAL–INDUCED OXIDATIVE STRESS IN ALGAE1
Authors: Pinto Ernani , Sigaud‐kutner Teresa C. S. , Leitão Maria A. S. , Okamoto Oswaldo K. , Morse David , Colepicolo Pio
Published: November 2003

Heavy metals, depending on their oxidation states, can be highly reactive and, as a consequence, toxic to most organisms. They are produced by an expanding variety of anthropogenic sources suggesting an increasingly important role for this form of pollution. The toxic effect of heavy metals appears to be related to production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the resulting unbalanced cellular redox status. Algae respond to heavy metals by induction of several antioxidants, including diverse enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase, and the synthesis of low molecular weight compounds such as carotenoids and glutathione. At high, or acute, levels of metal pollutants, damage to algal cells occurs because ROS levels exceed the capacity of the cell to cope. At lower, or chronic, levels algae accumulate heavy metals and can pass them on to organisms of other trophic levels such as mollusks, crustaceans, and fishes. We review here the evidence linking metal accumulation, cellular toxicity, and the generation of ROS in aquatic environments.
DEFINING TAXON BOUNDARIES IN MEMBERS OF THE MORPHOLOGICALLY AND GENETICALLY PLASTIC GENES CAULERPA (CAULERPALES, CHLOROPHYTA)1
Authors: De senerpont domis Lisette N. , Famà Patrizia , Bartlett Alison J. , Prud'homme van reine Willem F. , Espinosa Cinthya Armenta , Trono Gavino C.
Published: November 2003

Numerous attempts to capture the morphological variability of the genus Caulerpa have resulted in an unstable classification of numerous varieties and formae. In the present study we attempted to test taxon boundaries by investigating morphological and genetic variation within and between seven taxa of Caulerpa, supposedly belonging to four species, sampled at different sites in a Philippine reef system. Using both field and culture observations, we described the relation between the variability of a set of morphological characters and ecological parameters, such as wave exposure, light intensity, and substrate type. Statistical analyses showed that the limits between two (out of three) ecads of the C. racemosa (Forsskål) J. Agardh complex were obscured by the presence of morphological plasticity. Other studied taxa of Caulerpa (i.e. C. cupressoides [Vahl] C. Agardh, C. serrulata [Forsskål] J. Agardh, and two formae of C. sertularioides [S. Gmelin] Howe) could be grouped based on morphology despite the presence of morphological plasticity. Our results indicated a strong association between light intensity and several quantitative morphological variables. Genetic diversity of these taxa was assessed by partial sequencing chloroplast rbcL and tufA genes and the ycf10‐chlB chloroplast spacer. In all phylogenetic analyses, C. serrulata, C. cupressoides, C. sertularioides, and the three ecads of C. racemosa emerged as distinct genetic units. Despite the presence of morphological plasticity and morphological convergence, a subset of morphological characters traditionally used in taxonomic delimitation still had sufficient discriminative power to recognize the terminal phylogenetic clades.
PYRENOID FORMATION ASSOCIATED WITH THE CELL CYCLE IN THE BROWN ALGA,SCYTOSIPHON LOMENTARIA(SCYTOSIPHONALES, PHAEOPHYCEAE)1
Authors: Nagasato Chikako , Yoshikawa Shinya , Yamashita Masakane , Kawai Hiroshi , Motomura Taizo
Published: November 2003

Vegetative cells of the brown algaScytosiphon lomentaria(Lyngbye) Link characteristically have only one chloroplast with a prominent protruding pyrenoid, whereas zygotes have both paternal and maternal chloroplasts. In zygotes, before cell and chloroplast division, each chloroplast has an old and a new pyrenoid. In this study, we raised a polyclonal antibody to RUBISCO and examined the distribution of RUBISCO by immunofluorescence microscopy, focusing on new pyrenoid formation in vegetative cells of gametophytes and zygotes inScytosiphon. In interphase, only one old pyrenoid was positively indicated by anti‐RUBISCO antibody in vegetative cells of gametophytes. From mid‐S phase, small fluorescence aggregates reflecting RUBISCO localization started to appear at stroma positions other than adjacent to the old protruding pyrenoid. The fluorescent spots eventually coalesced into a protrusion into the adjacent cytoplasm. We also used inhibitors to clarify the relationship between the cell cycle and new pyrenoid formation, using zygotes after fertilization. When DNA replication was blocked by aphidicolin, new pyrenoid formation was also inhibited. Washing out aphidicolin permitted new pyrenoid formation with the progression of the cell cycle. When mitosis was prolonged by nocodazole, which disrupted the spindle microtubules, the fluorescent masses indicating RUBISCO localization continued to increase when compared with pyrenoid formation in untreated zygotes. During treatment with chloramphenicol, mitosis and cytokinesis were completed. However, there was no occurrence of new RUBISCO localization within the chloroplast stroma beyond the old pyrenoid. From these observations, it seems clear that new pyrenoid formation in the brown algaScytosiphondepends on the cell cycle.
Modified formulation of CPDA for storage of whole blood, and of SAGM for storage of red blood cells, to maintain the concentration of 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate
Authors: Kurup P. A. , Arun P. , Gayathri N. S. , Dhanya C. R. , Indu A. R.
Published: November 2003

Background and Objectives  A dramatic decrease in the level of 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate (2,3‐DPG) takes place during the storage of whole blood (WB) in CPDA (citrate–phosphate–dextrose–adenine) and a similar decrease occurs during the storage of red blood cells (RBCs) in SAGM (saline–adenine–glucose–mannitol). The aim of the present study was to prevent this decrease by modifying CPDA and SAGM.

Materials and Methods  The pH of WB anticoagulant or RBC preservative solution was maintained at 7·6 by autoclaving the dextrose solution separately, by incorporating ascorbic acid and nicotinic acid into both CPDA and SAGM (to produce modified CPDA and SAGM solutions), and by reducing the concentration of adenine and adding citrate to the modified SAGM solution. The concentration of 2,3‐DPG in WB after 28 days of storage in modified CPDA, and in RBCs stored in modified SAGM, was compared with that in WB or RBCs stored in unmodified solutions.

Results  The initial 2,3‐DPG levels were maintained after 28 days in the modified formulations [10·63 ± 2·58 µm/g of haemoglobin (Hb) in the case of modified CPDA and 12·07 ± 1·47 µm/g of Hb in the case of modified SAGM], whereas in standard CPDA and SAGM solutions, the concentration of 2,3‐DPG decreased to very low levels (0·86 ± 0·97 µm/g Hb for CPDA and 0·12 ± 0·008 for SAGM).

Conclusions  Our modification in the formulation of CPDA or SAGM is effective in arresting the dramatic decrease in the level of 2,3‐DPG that occurs during storage of WB and RBCs in unmodified solutions.
First comparison of productivity and citrate donor load between the Trima® version 4 (dual‐stage filler) and the Trima Accel® (single‐stage filler) in the same donors
Authors: Ringwald J. , Zingsem J. , Zimmermann R. , Strasser E. , Antoon M. , Eckstein R.
Published: November 2003

Background and Objectives  Aside from new software the blood cell separator TRIMA (GambroBCT) also received a newly designed separation chamber offering a novel single stage separation technology, called Trima Accel. We evaluated this new system focusing on productivity and donor comfort by comparing it to the previous version (Trima version 4) in collecting single‐donor platelet concentrates (SD‐PCs) and plasma.

Materials and Methods  Each of 20 donors underwent platelet apheresis using both devices. We compared the collection efficiency (CE), the collections rate (CR), the volume of the collected plasma and the residual leukocytes. Furthermore we compared donor comfort in terms of duration of the donation, flow of citrate back to the donor and platelet and whit blood cell (WBC) loss.

Results  While the number of collected platelets and the platelet concentration did not differ significantly between both techniques the time of the procedure was reduced by 15.6% with Trima Accel. This results in an increase of the CR and CE of 25% and 15% respectively when using Trima Accel. Log normal probability plotting of WBC counts showed that both techniques complied with the European and the US leukoreduction guidelines. The mean flow of ACDA to the donor perminute and per litre blood volume was also reduced by 20%.

Conclusion  These data show that the Trima Accel represents a further improvement in apheresis platelet production with a better productivity and donor comfort, especially regarding the mean flow of ACDA to the donor.
Neutrophil and platelet antibodies in autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome
Authors: Kwon S.‐W. , Procter J. , Dale J. K. , Straus S. E. , Stroncek D. F.
Published: November 2003

Background and Objectives  Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS), is an inherited disorder characterized by defective lymphocyte apoptosis, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, accumulation of T‐cell receptor (TCR)‐αβ+ CD4− CD8− T cells (double‐negative T cells) and autoimmunity. We investigated the incidence and nature of neutrophil and platelet antibodies in patients with ALPS.

Materials and Methods  Sera from 26 patients with ALPS were tested for neutrophil antibodies by granulocyte immunofluorescence, granulocyte agglutination and monoclonal antibody immobilization assays of granulocyte antigens, and for platelet antibodies using a solid‐phase antibody‐detection system.

Results  Neutrophil antibodies were detected in 46% of patients with ALPS. Antibody specificity could be defined in eight of the 12 patients with neutrophil antibodies. Among these eight patients, four had antibodies directed against more than one antigen. Overall, 14 antibodies directed to specific antigens were identified: three were directed to the HNA‐1a antigen of FcγRIIIb; two to the HNA‐1b antigen of Fcγ‐RIIIb; two to epitopes common to all FcγRIIIb molecules; four to the HNA‐2a antigen of the NB1 glycoprotein; and three to neutrophil β2 integrins. Platelet antibodies were detected in 35% of patients with ALPS. No antibody specificities were identified among the platelet antibodies. There was no association between the detection of neutrophil antibodies and a history of clinical neutropenia, or between the detection of platelet antibodies and a history of clinical thromobocytopenia.

Conclusions  Neutrophil and platelet antibodies are important markers of ALPS, but do not always cause clinical cytopenias. The specificities of neutrophil antibody were similar to those found in children with autoimmune neutropenia but without ALPS.
Reduced growth hormone receptor immunoreactivity in osteoclasts adjacent to the erupting molar in the incisor‐absent (osteopetrotic) rat
Authors: Symons Anne L.
Published: November 2003

First molars fail to erupt in the incisor‐absent (ia/ia) rat because of a defect in osteoclast function. Growth factors that regulate local bone metabolism include growth hormone (GH), insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and interleukin‐1 alpha (IL‐1α). Since osteoclast function may be affected by these factors, the aim of this study was to determine the distribution of GH receptor (GHr), IGF‐I, EGF and IL‐1α, in osteoclasts located occlusal to the erupting first molar, in the ‘eruption pathway’, in normal andia/iarats. Sagittal sections of the first molar and adjacent bone from 3‐ and 9‐d‐old animals were examined. Osteoclasts were identified using tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). The TRAP‐positive osteoclast cell numbers were higher inia/iaanimals at 3 and 9 days‐of‐age. In theia/iagroup, fewer osteoclasts were GHr‐ and IGF‐I‐positive at 3 d of age, and at 9 d of age fewer osteoclasts were GHr‐positive. In theia/iarat, defective osteoclast function failed to resorb bone to provide an eruption pathway for the lower first molar. The expression of GHr, and to some degree IGF‐I, by these osteoclasts was reduced, which may be related to their ability to differentiate and function.
Induction of an antitumour adaptive immune response elicited by tumour cells expressing de novo B7‐1 mainly depends on the anatomical site of their delivery: the dose applied regulates the expansion of the response
Authors: Sartoris Silvia , Testi Maria G. , Stefani Elisabetta , Chignola Roberto , Guerriero Chiara , Matucci Andrea , Cestari Tiziana , Scarpa Aldo , Riviera Anna P. , Zanoni Giovanna , Tridente Giuseppe , Andrighetto Giancarlo
Published: November 2003

De novo expression of costimulatory molecules in tumours generally increases their immunogenicity, but does not always induce a protective response against the parental tumour. This issue was addressed in the mouse Sp6 hybridoma model, comparing different immunization routes (subcutaneous, intraperitoneal and intravenous) and doses (0·5 × 106 and 5 × 106 cells) of Sp6 cells expressing de novo B7‐1 (Sp6/B7). The results can be summarized as follows. First, de novo expression of B7‐1 rendered Sp6 immunogenic, as it significantly reduced the tumour incidence to ≤15% with all delivery routes and doses tested, whereas wild‐type Sp6 was invariably tumorigenic (100% tumour incidence). Second, long‐lasting protection against wild‐type Sp6 was mainly achieved when immunization with Sp6/B7 was subcutaneous: a dose of 0·5 × 106 Sp6/B7 cells elicited protection that was confined to sites in the same anatomical quarter as the immunizing injection. Repeated injections of the same dose extended protection against wild‐type Sp6 to other anatomical districts, as well as a single injection of a 10‐fold higher dose (5 × 106 cells). Finally, Sp6‐specific cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte activity was detected in draining lymph nodes, and the splenic expansion of Sp6‐specific cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte precursors quantitatively correlated with the dose of antigen. We conclude that activation of a protective immune response against Sp6 depends on the local environment where the immunogenic form of the ‘whole tumour cell antigen’ is delivered. The antigen dose regulates the anatomical extent of the protective response.
Killer immunoglobulin‐like receptor expression on single cells: a cautionary note
Authors: Radeloff Britta , Laun Katja , Zirra Maja , Volz Armin
Published: November 2003

Natural killer (NK) cells keep the surface expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules under surveillance using killer immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR). Virus‐infected or aberrant cells are frequently characterized by a reduced surface expression of MHC class I antigens and may therefore be removed by cytolysis. NK cells are heterogeneous with regard to the expression of KIR genes. The resulting subpopulations show distinguishable specificities allowing the recognition of cells lacking varying combinations of MHC class I antigens. The KIR expression pattern in single NK cells has previously been analyzed by Husain and colleagues by cDNA preamplification of CD3− CD56+ single cells and subsequent gene‐specific polymerase chain reaction. We show here that the data of this study contain inconsistencies. These inconsistencies are discussed in the context of KIR mRNA abundance and single‐cell cDNA amplification efficiency.
Fluorescent resolution target for super‐resolution microscopy
Authors: Stark P. R. H. , Rinko L. J. , Larson D. N.
Published: November 2003

Historically, resolution in fluorescence optical microscopy has been limited by the Rayleigh criterion. Recently, however, several techniques have achieved resolution below that specified by the Rayleigh criterion. Among these are 4‐Pi confocal microscopy, harmonic excitation light‐microscopy, stimulated emission depletion microscopy, near‐field scanning optical microscopy and I5M. The most widely accepted current method of resolution testing is to image an array of closely packed fluorescent beads or beads dispersed in a matrix. This shows that the system is capable of resolving a feature with a given diameter; however, it does not demonstrate the classical resolution of the system. We have fabricated a fluorescent resolution target for better characterization of a system's resolution.
Atomic force microscopy study of living diatoms in ambient conditions
Authors: Gebeshuber I. C. , Kindt J. H. , Thompson J. B. , Del Amo Y. , Stachelberger H. , Brzezinski M. A. , Stucky G. D. , Morse D. E. , Hansma P. K.
Published: November 2003

We present the first in vivo study of diatoms using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Three chain‐forming, benthic freshwater species –Eunotia sudetica, Navicula seminulum and a yet unidentified species – are directly imaged while growing on glass slides. Using the AFM, we imaged the topography of the diatom frustules at the nanometre range scale and we determined the thickness of the organic case enveloping the siliceous skeleton of the cell (10 nm). Imaging proved to be stable for several hours, thereby offering the possibility to study long‐term dynamic changes, such as biomineralization or cell movement, as they occur. We also focused on the natural adhesives produced by these unicellular organisms to adhere to other cells or the substratum. Most man‐made adhesives fail in wet conditions, owing to chemical modification of the adhesive or its substrate. Diatoms produce adhesives that are extremely strong and robust both in fresh‐ and in seawater environments. Our phase‐imaging and force‐pulling experiments reveal the characteristics of these natural adhesives that might be of use in designing man‐made analogues that function in wet environments. Engineering stable underwater adhesives currently poses a major technical challenge.
Pressure‐flow variables in patients treated with tolterodine for detrusor overactivity
Authors: Wagg A. , Malone‐Lee J.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that drug treatment which modifies detrusor function (tolterodine) may influence the higher detrusor pressure at urethral opening and closure recorded in patients with detrusor overactivity than in those with stable bladders.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients treated with tolterodine in the treatment arm of a phase III, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of tolterodine were eligible for the study. Patients underwent urodynamics before and immediately after 4 weeks of therapy. The detrusor pressure at urethral opening, at maximum flow and at urethral closure, and the maximum bladder capacity and postvoid residual urine volume were recorded from matched urodynamic studies in the trial. Patients with a reduction in urinary frequency of more than two voids per 24 h were defined as responders to treatment and urodynamic data were dichotomised accordingly to allow comparison.

RESULTS

There were no between‐group differences in either the detrusor pressure at opening or closure when responders were compared with non‐responders. Successful treatment was associated with a statistically significant change in bladder capacity and postvoid residual volume, although the change in residual volume was not clinically significant. Values of detrusor pressure at opening before treatment were greater in non‐responders.

CONCLUSION

The absence of changes in the pressure‐flow plot variables is in keeping with previous studies reporting the search for a urodynamic variable which might be used to predict a favourable outcome after drug treatment.
Dynamic three‐dimensional spiral computed tomographic cysto‐urethrography: a novel technique for evaluating post‐traumatic posterior urethral defects
Authors: El‐Kassaby A.‐W. , Osman T. , Abdel‐Aal A. , Sadek M. , Nayef N.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To present a new method of identifying the anatomy of posterior urethral distraction defects (PUDDs) using three‐dimensional spiral computed tomography/cysto‐urethrography (CTCUG), as conventional two‐dimensional CUG can give a false interpretation of the exact anatomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty‐one patients presenting with a PUDD were assessed between February 2001 and October 2002. All patients initially underwent combined ascending and micturating CUG (ACUG), followed by CTCUG analysed using special software. In this technique all soft‐tissue densities were subtracted from the volume of interest leaving only high‐density images, i.e. pelvic bony structure and the contrast medium‐filled bladder and urethra. The images were taken over a sequence and 36 different images viewed by ‘roll and spin’ techniques, each of which had a different plane of vision. Images were supplied as static CT films and as a movie on a compact disk using a computer program.

RESULTS

The technique allows one CT image to be viewed from 36 different angles both dynamically and statically, allowing the surgeon the unique opportunity to view the PUDD through several planes and precisely identify its anatomy. By comparing the data obtained with this technique to those obtained by conventional ACUG, and each in relation to the operative findings, the following aspects could be more thoroughly evaluated by CTCUG: the location of the distraction injury, the length of the distraction defect, the degree and direction of urethral end‐alignment, the relation of the ectopic bony fragments and bone callus to the urethra, and the presence of various pathological defects, e.g. fistulae, false passages and diverticulae.

CONCLUSION

With CTCUG, both static and dynamic images can be obtained, allowing the easier staging of a PUDD and thus better surgical planning and consequently better results from reconstruction.
Split renal function does not change after successful treatment in children with primary vesico‐ureteric reflux
Authors: Matsumoto F. , Shimada K. , Harada Y. , Naitoh Y.
Published: November 2003

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the renal growth pattern in patients with primary vesico‐ureteric reflux (VUR) using long‐term measurements of split renal function with 99mTc‐dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scintigraphy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 712 children aged < 16 years (466 boys and 246 girls) with primary VUR were referred to our hospital from July 1991 to December 2000. VUR was diagnosed by voiding cysto‐urethrography. The patients were treated either surgically (group 1) or conservatively (group 2) and followed with serial 99mTc‐DMSA scintigraphy for up to 10 years. There were 942 examinations in 367 of 712 patients who had repeat scintigraphy. Patients with secondary VUR, VUR to a solitary or fused kidney, or upper urinary tract obstruction, were excluded. Five of 298 patients (1.7%) who had ureteric reimplantation had a febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) soon after surgery but none recurred (recurrence is an indication for surgery in children with VUR); there was no febrile UTI in the 69 patients in group 2. Planar scintigraphy with 99mTc‐DMSA was used to assess the absolute uptake (AU) of each kidney, measured as a percentage of the injected dose, and the relative uptake (RU = AU of each kidney/AU of both kidneys) calculated. The initial examination was at least 4 weeks after any febrile UTI in most patients. Serial studies were conducted 1 year after surgery and then biannually in group 1. In group 2 the DMSA scan was repeated every 2–3 years. The change in split renal function was compared with the RU of the right kidney.

RESULTS

The RU of the right kidney at the initial scan correlated closely with those on repeated scans in both groups. The correlation coefficients were 0.99 in group 1 and 0.94–0.97 in group 2 at every study. The change of RU remained within 0.05 in all patients after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Under strict control of UTI, split renal function in children with primary VUR does not change. There may be no possibility of accelerated or compensatory growth of the kidney with reflux nephropathy, but no concern about deterioration and atrophy either.