bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual Dimorphism in Decompensated Non Ethanol-related Chronic Liver Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Krishnan Ramu , Shafique A , Rejoice Poppy , Kumar E Kandasamy , Durai Geetha , Kumar Kishore
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Women exhibit a distinct natural history of chronic liver disease compared to men, particularly regarding progression and outcomes. Although liver disease prevalence is generally higher in men, the incidence of non ethanol-related liver disease is increasing among females. Metabolic syndromes and their consequences are less recognised in the female population until they develop end-stage cirrhosis. Limited studies have explored the differences between male and female cirrhosis. The present study aimed to address the knowledge gap in female Decompensated Chronic Liver Disease (DCLD). Aim: To identify the differences in presentation and outcomes between females and males with non ethanol-related cirrhosis. Materials and Methods: The present retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of Medical Gastroenterology and Hepatology,Tirunelveli Medical College, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India, involving 27 males and 33 females with non ethanol-related decompensated cirrhosis. A comparison was made between the aetiologies, presenting symptoms, complications, laboratory values, Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score, and in-hospital mortality during the first decompensation. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 Quantitative variables were expressed as mean and Standard Deviation, while qualitative variables were expressed as frequency and percentage. The association between categorical variables was analysed using the Chi-square test, and the comparison of continuous variables between the two groups was analysed using independent sample t-test. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of decompensation was 56.5 years for men and 50.9 years for women. The most common aetiology in men was Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) (63%), while in females, it was NAFLD (45%) and cryptogenic cirrhosis (45%) (p=0.020). Diabetes Mellitus (DM) was more prevalent in males (55.6% versus 33.3%). Variceal bleed was more common in females (66.7% versus 48.1%). Jaundice was more frequently observed in males (44.4% versus 21.2%) (p=0.05). Ascites was more prominent in males (70.4% versus 45.5%) (p=0.05). Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) was more prevalent in males (22.2% versus 15.2%). Females had a lower MELD scores compared to males (12.4±6.1 versus 15.2±6.4). Mortality was higher in males (22.2% versus 12.1%). Conclusion: Women with Decompensated Chronic Liver Disease tend to decompensate at a younger age compared to males and have a higher risk of Upper Gastrointestinal (UGI) bleeding. NAFLD was the most common aetiology in both groups. Ascites and HE were more commonly observed in men. Females had lower MELD scores, resulting in a longer waiting period on the transplant list compared to males. Mortality was higher in males.
Digital Transformation and Corruption Dynamics in Ghana's Retail Economy: An Economic Analysis of Technological Adoption and Ethical Business Practices
Authors: Joseph Baafi Antwi , Portia Agyei Darkwah , Esther Sarfo
Published: January 2024

Aims: To investigate the interplay between digital transformation and corruption within Ghana's retail sector, focusing on the Ashanti Region.

Study Design: Descriptive quantitative approach rooted in a positivist philosophy was used for the study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out between March 2023 and November 2023 at Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.

Methodology: The research utilized convenience sampling to survey 35 retail establishments. Structured questionnaires, digital transformation extent, and corruption propensity assessments, were employed. The extent of digital transformation was categorized into four scales, reflecting various levels of technological adoption, utilizing the Stapel Scale. The propensity of corruption was calculated using an economic concept formula, unveiling a wide range of corruption likelihoods among retail shops. Ranking and percentile rank facilitated strategic prioritization for anti-corruption interventions, identifying high and low-propensity shops. The population consists of all retail shops in Ghana within the Ashanti Region. Convenience sampling, a non-probability technique based on availability or willingness to participate, was employed due to time constraints, sampling 35 retail shops from the region.

Results: Correlation coefficients revealed a robust negative correlation (-0.780) between digital transformation and corruption propensity, indicating that increased technological adoption correlated with decreased likelihood of corrupt practices.

Conclusion: The study's underscore the economic imperative of fostering digitalization to mitigate corruption risks, emphasizing the significance of technological advancements in shaping transparent and accountable retail operations in Ghana.
Gender and Climate Change: The Role of Women in Climate Change Processes
Authors: Gicheru Mercy Njeri , Mwenda Mithika Joseph , Omwami Duncan Ondieki
Published: January 2024

Gender and climate change research has revealed that the causes and effects of climate change differ by gender. Women are affected differently by climate change impacts, and this calls for their participation at the decision-making table in climate change discourse processes. Despite their vulnerable position in society, women are seen as change agents in natural resource management, farming, innovation, and caregiving. As a result, in economies which are heavily natural resource reliant, women are critical for establishing resilient systems and ensuring climate change adaptation. In this review, we hypothesize by answering the question, "What roles do women play in the climate change adaptation and mitigation processes?” We uncover evidence to support the hypothesis that women act as climate change negotiators, clean technology ambassadors, climate-smart agriculture ambassadors, and climate change activists in the climate change processes using a systematic review system meta-analysis inspired by PRISMA and the Publish or Perish review tool as a form of qualitative analysis. We used over 40 pieces of literature to foster the evidence of the study.
Wandering Spleen in Operated Case of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Musande B. V. , Pawar Arjun , Shinde Rajendra , Marathe Nikita N. , Marathe Yash
Published: January 2024

Wandering spleen (WS) is a rare condition characterized by abnormal mobility of the spleen due to laxity or absence of its supporting ligaments. We report an exceptional case of WS in a pediatric patient who had previously undergone surgical repair for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). A 16-year-old male, with a history of CDH repair in infancy, presented with a two-day history of abdominal pain and vomiting. Clinical examination revealed abdominal distension, tenderness, and sluggish bowel sounds. Imaging studies, including a contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) scan, indicated small bowel obstruction due to an internal hernia, potentially involving the foramen of Winslow. Intriguingly, the patient's spleen had migrated to the left iliac fossa, accompanied by partial thrombosis of the splenic vein. Surgical intervention was deemed necessary. During exploratory laparotomy, the patient was found to have a reversed anatomy, with the ascending colon, cecum, and appendix on the left side, and the small bowel on the right side. Additionally, a WS was discovered with a long and tortuous splenic vein and artery. Surgical procedures included adhesiolysis, primary closure of serosal tears, splenopexy for spleen repositioning, and bowel derotation. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful, and he was monitored closely to ensure the resolution of the complications associated with this unique presentation.
Campylobacter Species: New Insight, Clinical Diagnosis and Laboratory Approach
Authors: Chukwu Christopher Ifunanya , Nwalozie Rhoda , Nnokam Brenda Anyakwe , Esiere RoseMary Kaiso
Published: January 2024

Campylobacter, a prevalent cause of global gastroenteritis, has exhibited an escalating impact worldwide, affecting both industrialized and developing nations. Even though Campylobacter jejuni and C. coli are the main causes of infection, new pathogens make it imperative to comprehend the disease mechanisms, dynamics of transmission, and evolution of less-studied species. Accessible whole-genome sequences obtained through high-throughput sequencing have made it easier to conduct in-depth pathogenomic studies, particularly on species such as C. fetus and C. concisus. These studies have shown novel applications in clinical microbiology by revealing genomic traits associated with pathogenicity and offering insights into the evolutionary mechanisms shaping their genomes. Effective pathogen management urgently requires deeper understanding of the evolution of pathogenicity in emerging Campylobacter species are urgently required for effective pathogen management. This comprehensive review synthesizes existing knowledge and outlines future research directions in this crucial field. The Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, curved or spiral rods known as campylobacters include a "thermophilic group" that is important to the water industry and includes C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. upsaliensis. Acute diarrhea is the usual symptom of a human Campylobacter infection, and key virulence factors have been identified as antibiotic resistance genes and flagellar DNA. Many campylobacters are frequently found in sewage and treated sewage effluents, whereas surface waters are less contaminated. Testing for Campylobacter prevalence through epidemiological methods requires a careful balance between phenotypic and genotypic data. Campylobacters are sensitive to oxygen, but they have strong survival strategies that may involve the formation of biofilms. Methods of inactivation that work well for coliforms are thought to be appropriate for Campylobacter. In addition to providing a synthesis of current knowledge and identifying future research directions to advance strategies for the effective management and mitigation of Campylobacter-related infections, this thorough review highlights the urgent need for additional research to deepen our understanding of these pathogens. The investigation of genetic features linked to pathogenicity, dynamics of transmission, and survival strategies highlights the complex character of Campylobacter infections. The dynamic nature of Campylobacter as a primary cause of gastroenteritis necessitates continued research endeavors to guide focused interventions and lessen the worldwide impact of this grave public health issue.
Blood Donor Arm Cleaning–Another Step towards Preventing the Contamination of Blood Products for Transfusion Purposes
Authors: N. Gatt , J. P. Gialanze , N. Spiteri , V. Zammit
Published: January 2024

Blood Establishments strive to provide blood and blood derivatives that are safe for transfusion. A recurrent concern is providing blood components that are free from bacterial contamination. Bacterial and fungal contamination of blood products is nowadays a major apprehension when it comes to transfusion adverse events. Over the years, several disinfection products and protocols have been devised to mitigate the risks of such contaminants, nonetheless, sepsis is still the leading cause of transfusion reaction fatalities. This fact raises the question of whether disinfection on its own is sufficient for preventing such outcomes.
Assessment of Permethrin Toxicity Following Subacute Dermal Exposure in Rats
Authors: Patel Abhay Kumar , Dewangan Gayatri , Rajput Neetu , Koli Swati
Published: January 2024

Permethrin is an insecticide in the pyrethroid family, used for control of pests in veterinary and agriculture sector. Present study was planned to evaluate the toxicity of permethrin following daily dermal application in Albino rats for 28 days. Thirty six rats were divided in to three groups, each group containing six animals.  Group I was treated as control and rats in groups II and III were dermally exposed to  permethrin at dose 100 and 200 mg.kg-1 b.wt., respectively daily for 28 days. Hematological and biochemical parameters were assessed at 0, 14th and 28th day of exposure. Significant changes in level of haemoglobin, total erythrocyte count and packed cell volume was observed at both the doses of permethrin during exposure period. The present investigation also resulted in significant elevation in aspartate amino transaminase, alanine amino transaminase,  alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase activities and significant increase in blood urea nitrogen and creatinine level in permethrin treated rats at both dose levels which indicated liver and kidney. Present study suggests that permethrin may be harmful when repeated dermal exposure occurs.
A Revision of European Saxicolous Species of the Genus Buellia de not. and Formerly Included Genera
Authors: Scheidegger Christoph
Published: September 2002

A detailed taxonomic survey of the saxicolous European species of Buellia based on a detailed survey and assessment of the important features of the genus is presented. These include the conidia, the anatomy of the exciple, the spore wall pigmentation, ornamentation and internal wall thickening, as well as analysis of the lichen substances. As a result, 36 saxicolous species are recognized, of which Buellia griseosquamulata and B. longispora are new taxa and B. atrocinerella and B. parvula are new combinations. Buellia coniops, B. lecideina and B. punclata are transferred to the validated genus Amandinea. A key to 43 accepted species of Buellia, Amandinea and Hafellia is included.
The Lichens of Chalk Grassland
Authors: Gilbert Oliver L.
Published: September 2002

Following a nationwide survey, the lichen vegetation associated with chalk grassland in England is described. The flora can be divided into species associated with flints (78 spp.), those found on chalk pebbles (65) and those occurring on the ground (72). Factors governing the distribution of the species were investigated. An important determinant of the flint assemblage is the degree of surface leaching, which is linked to stability; large flints embedded in turf are particularly rich. Chalkpebble lichens reach their maximum development at sites where faulting or other influences have hardened the substratum. Terricolous species have rather specialized requirements, being favoured by stresses associated with nutrient depletion, past disturbance, soil compaction, drought, rabbits, trampling by shoes (rather than hooves), and the presence of a small loess fraction in the soil. On both a national and a local scale, climate has been demonstrated to affect the distribution of certain species. Guidelines on the assessment of localities for conservation are provided and used to identify elite sites. A recent decline in the extent and species diversity of terricolous communities is giving cause for concern. Management requirements for conservation are discussed. They include recognizing the importance of intermittent disturbance; most of the richest sites are less than a hundred years old. The lichen flora has affinities with that present in urban areas. The survey provides an example of the importance of historical factors in determining the ecology of lichen communities in the cultural landscape.
The genus Ramalina in Brazil
Authors: Kashiwadani H. , Kalb K.
Published: September 2002

Twenty-two species of Ramalina are reported from Brazil. Their taxonomy is discussed and a key is provided. Ramalina denticulata var. stephanophora is reduced to synonymy with R. aspera, R. flagellifera with R. camptospora, R. denticulata var. subolivacea and R. complanata f. reagens with R. complanata, R. dendriscoidella and R. tenella with R. dendroides, and R. bicolor with R. gracilis. Ramalina asahinae, R. calcarata, R. pusiola, R. sorediosa, and R. sprengelii are new to Brazil.
The Lichen genus Diploschistes in India and Nepal
Authors: Pant G. , Upreti D. K.
Published: September 2002

A taxonomic revision of 15 taxa of Diploschistes from India and Nepal is presented. Two species, D. awasthii and D. nepalensis, are described as new. Diploschistes caesioplumbeus (Nyl.,) Vainio, D. diacapsis (Ach.) Lumbsch and D. eugatieus (Massal.) Steiner are new records for the lichen flora of India.
Theudium Austroatlanticum (Verrucariaceae), A New Species from the South Orkney Islands
Authors: Orange Alan
Published: September 2002

Thelidium austroatlanticum sp. nov. is described from Signy island; it is characterized by an epilithic thallus, more or less appressed involucrellum, and 1-septate spores 30–40 μm long. Thelidium incavatum is also reported for Signy Island.
Cetraria Obtusata Comb. Et Stat. Nov., An Overlooked Lichen Species From the Central Alps
Authors: Van Den Boom P. P. G. , Sipman H. J. M.
Published: September 2002

A description is given for Cetraria obtusata (Schaerer) v. d. Boom & Sipman, comb, et stat. nov., known so far only from the central Alps, and characterized by a pale yellow, C+ yellowish orange medulla and raised pseudocyphellae often surrounded by projections. It contains the rare lichen substance secalonic acid C and two unidentified substances.
Arthrorhaphis Aeruginosa and A. Olivaceae, Two New Lichenicolous Fungi
Authors: Santesson Rolf , Tønsberg Tor
Published: September 2002

The lichenicolous fungi Arthrorhaphis aeruginosa R. Sant. & Tønsb. On Cladonia spp. and Arthrorhaphis olivaceae R. Sant. & Tonsb. on Melanelia olivacea are described as new from Norway, Scotland and western North America, and from Sweden, respectively.
Two New Sorediate Taxa of Peltigera
Authors: Goffinet B. , Hastings R. I.
Published: September 2002

Examination of specimens of Peltigera didactyla, from Africa, Asia, Europe and North America revealed that this sorediate species includes three entities that can be separated on morphological characters. A new species, P. lambinonii, is described from East Africa, and a new combination P. didactyla var. extenuata, is proposed to accommodate morphs from mesic forest habitats in Asia, Europe and North America. Despite this taxonomic reduction, P. didactyla var. didactyla remains a ubiquitous taxon. The former two taxa often produce methyl gyrophorate, which can co-occur with traces of gyrophoric acid. These tridepsides were only rarely detected in var. didactyla; their occasional presence seems to be best explained by hybridization. The taxonomic and ecological significance of these substances is discussed.
Micarea Confusa: A New Species from Zinc- and Cadmium-Contaminated Soils in Belgium and the Netherlands
Authors: Coppins B. J. , van den Boom P. P. G.
Published: September 2002

Micarea confuse, a species easily confused with M. denigrate, is described from heavy-metal contaminated ground in Belgium and The Netherlands. Additional information is provided on the main locality at Budel-Dorplein.
Dirina Mexicana, a New Species from the Sonoran Desert of Mexico
Authors: Tehler A. , Feige G. B. , Lumbsch H. T.
Published: September 2002

Dirina mexicana Tehler from the western coasts of Mexico is proposed as a new species. It mostly resembles D. immersa and D. insulana from the western mediterranean region in Europe.
The New Lichen family Gloeoheppiaceae and its Genera Gloeoheppia, Pseudopeltula and Gudelia (Lichinales)
Authors: Henssen Aino
Published: September 2002

Gloeoheppia is re-established as a separate taxon; the genus differs from Heppia in apothecial development and thallus structure. Gloeoheppia and the related genera Gudelia Henssen and Pseudopeltula Henssen described here are placed in the new family Gloeoheppiaceae in the Lichinales. In habit, the genera of Gloeoheppiaceae resemble species of Heppia and Peltula, whereas in apothecial development they correspond to some extent to the Lichinaceae. The species Gloeoheppia polyspora Henssen, Gloeoheppia rugosa Henssen, Pseudopeltula dicyanophora Henssen, Pseudopeltula heppioides Henssen, Pseudopeltula myriocarpa Henssen and Gudelia mexicana Henssen, are described for the first time. In Gloeoheppiaceae the thalli are ecorticate and the hyphae reticulately branched. The prototunicate asci contain eight, or up to 16, colourless and simple, occasionally two-celled spores. In species of Pseudopeltula, the apothecia are of a complex structure. The cyanobionts are small and single-celled; in P. dicyanophora ‘ internal cephalodia ’ with an additional, filamentous cyanobiont are formed. Lectotypes are designated for Endocarpon turgidum Ach. and Heppia furva Hue in Patouill.
A Reappraisal of Clathroporina Müll. Arg. (Trichotheliaceae)
Authors: McCarthy P. M.
Published: September 2002

Clathroporina Müll. Arg. (1882), a genus of muriform-spored, pyrenocarpous lichens, is considered to be synonymous with Porina Müll. Arg. nom. cons. (1883). In order to avoid nomenclatural chaos, a proposal should be made to add it to the list of rejected names for Porina. Meanwhile, the following species are recognized: C. biroi Szatala, C. eminentior (NyL) Müll. Arg., C. exocha (Nyl.) Müll. Arg. and C. nuculastrum Müll. Arg. The following new combinations are effected: Aspidothelium cuyabense (Malme) P. M. McCarthy (Thelenella cuyabensis Malme), C. eminentior f. sorediifera (Müll. Arg.) P. M. McCarthy (C. desquamans f. sorediifera Müll. Arg), Laurera straminea (Malme) P. M. McCarthy (T. straminea Malme) and P. tahitensis (Räsänen) P. M. McCarthy (T. tahitensis Räsänen). The name P. farinose Knight is available for C. farinose (Knight) Müll. Arg. and P. grandispora sp. nov. is described from SE China. Fifteen species of Clathroporina and Thelenella sect. Clathroporina are referred to genera outside the Trichotheliaceae.
Tania, A New Genus With Byssoid Thallus in the Order Arthoniales and New Data on Sagenidiopsis
Authors: Egea J. M. , Tehler A. , Torrente P. , Sipman H.
Published: September 2002

The new genus Tania Egea, Torrente & Sipman (Arthoniales) with T. lanosa as type species is described from Malaysia. Sagenidiopsis formerly treated as a genus of incertae sedis is included in the order Arthoniales, and the new combination Sagenidiopsis undulatum (Fée) Egea, Tehler, Torrente & Sipman is made. A key to the genera with byssoid thalli in the order Arthoniales is given.
Species of the Genus Lecidea (Lecanorales) on Gypsum in Spain
Authors: Porcel-Casares Manuel , Hafellner Joseph , Carretero-Gutierrez Leonardo
Published: September 2002

The genus Lecidea in the lichen flora of the gypsum soils of Spainis represented b two species: L. gypsicola Llimona and L. circinarioides Casares & Hafellner sp. nov., which are described in this article. Chemical, anatomical and ecological differences are also described, as is the taxonomic value of the morphological characteristics of the mature ascoma.
Surface N-Alkane Variability in Xanthoria Parietina
Authors: Piervittori R. , Usai L. , Alessio F. , Maffei M.
Published: September 2002

Surface alkanes were extracted from thalli of populations of Xanthoria parietina growing in two different Piedmont (Italy) valleys: Susa and Vermenagna. The main n-alkanes detected in the Susa Valley were C27, C28, C29 and C31, whereas C25, C27 and C29 were the most abundant in Vermenagna Valley. The results indicate that the n-alkane qualitative composition of X. parietina was affected both by elevation and climatic characteristics typical of the two valleys considered.
Gyalidea Praetermissa, a New Lichen from Sweden
Authors: Foucard Tony , Thor Göran
Published: September 2002

The diminutive species Gyalidea praetermissa is described from Central Sweden. At the only known locality it grows on the sheltered and shaded vertical north side of a large boulder in an open pine forest. The species is mainly characterized by the 4-5-septate spores.
The Effect of Oxygen Deprivation on Inorganic Nitrogen Uptake in an Antarctic Macrolichen
Authors: Crittenden P. D.
Published: September 2002

Snow meltwater containing 36 ng ml−1 NO3−−N (raised here to between 95–101 ng ml−1 NO3−−N) and 112 ng ml−1 NH4+ −N was sprayed onto illuminated Usnea sphacelata at 2°C in a 2−1 capacity transparent perspex chamber force-ventilated with either air or O2− (and CO2−) free N2. The NO3-concentration in meltwater recirculated through a layer of U. sphacelata fell to c. 8 ng ml−1 after 1.25 h. Although the pattern of decline was broadly comparable in both air and N2, the initial rate of decline was lower in N2. When undepleted meltwater was continuously sprayed onto the lichen and the effluent collected for analysis, the lichen was found to retain 55% of the wet deposited NO3− in air but only 27% under N2. Up to 90%) of NH4+ supplied in a continuous spray of meltwater was retained by the lichen but this was affected little by O2 and CO2 deprivation.
Comparative Studies on Xanthoria Parietina, a Pollution Resistant Lichen, and Ramalina Duriaei, a Sensitive Species. I. Effects of Air Pollution on Physiological Processes
Authors: Silberstein L. , Siegel B. Z. , Siegel S. M. , Mukhtar A. , Galun M.
Published: September 2002

Xanthona parietina thalli were collected from a ‘clean-air’ location and from a polluted area. Ramalina duriaei thalli were collected from the same ‘clean-air’ location and some thalli were transplanted to air polluted locations, where R. duriaei no longer occurs. The effects of air contaminants on these two lichens were compared under controlled laboratory conditions and in field experiments. Air contaminants and exposure to bisulphite ions had little or no damaging effect on X. parietina, whereas severe damage was caused to R. duriaei, as judged by chlorophyll degradation, autofluorescence of photobionts, photosynthetic activity, membrane integrity and ATP content. The different responses presented confirm the sensitivity of R. duriaei and resistance of X. parietina to air pollution.
Epiphyte Flora and Diversity on Basal Trunks of Six Old-Growth Forest Tree Species in Southern and Middle Boreal Finland
Authors: Kuusinen Mikko
Published: September 2002

Epiphytic lichen and bryophyte species composition, richness and diversity were surveyed on basal trunks of six common old-growth forest tree species, Picea abies, Pinus sylvestris, Betula pendula, Alnus incana, Salix caprea and Populus tremula, in two old-growth forest areas, one in southern and one in middle boreal Finland. The average species numbers per tree ranged from 18 (Picea) to 27 (Salix) in the southern and from 20 (Populus) to 31 (Salix) in the middle boreal area. A few widespread habitat-generalist species, such as the foliose lichens Hypogymnia physodes and Platismatia glauca, were most abundant on all the tree species, except Populus. Most other epiphyte species showed at least a slight preference for one or two tree species. Populus proved to have the most distinct flora characterized by the abundance of certain, rather specialized crustose lichens and bryophytes. The number of species that occurred on only one tree species was highest on Populus (9) in the southern and on Alnus (18) in the middle boreal area. Differences in bark acidity and structure were the most likely explanations for the differences between tree species in the epiphytic flora and diversity. Salix and Populus were the most important of the tree species studied for the conservation of epiphyte diversity in the boreal forests of Finland.
Three New Species in the Catillariaceae From the Central Highlands of Scotland
Authors: Fryday Alan M. , Coppins Brian J.
Published: September 2002

Three species are recognized as additions to the British montane lichen flora: Catillaria gilbertii sp. nov., Halecania bryophila sp. nov., and H. micacea sp. nov. All three have so far been recorded only from the mica-schist mountains of the Central Highlands of Scotland.
A New Crustose Stereocaulon From the Mountains of Scotland and Wales
Authors: Fryday Alan M. , Coppins Brian J.
Published: September 2002

The new combination Stereocaulon plicatile (Leight.) Fryday & Coppins is made for a previously enigmatic crustose lichen with submuriform ascospores; the basionym, Lecidea plicatilis Leight., was previously misapplied to a norsticticacid containing species of Rhizocarpon. The systematic position of the crustose Stereocaulon leucophaeopsis group is discussed.
Chemical Variation in Lepraria Eburnea
Authors: Orange Alan
Published: September 2002

Lepraria eburnea is shown to comprise three morphologically indistinguishable chemotypes, containing either protocetraric acid, psoromic acid, or neither substance, in addition to alectorialic acid. The holotype of L. frigida contains protocetraric acid and alectorialic acid, and is thus united with L. ebumea under the latter name.
Belonia Mediterranea, a New Calcicolous Lichen Species From Catalonia (Ne Spain)
Authors: Navarro-Rosinés Pere , Llimona Xavier
Published: September 2002

Belonia mediterranea Nav.-Ros. & Llimona sp. nov. is described and compared with other, mainly saxicolous, species of the genus. It is known only from the type locality, Medes Islands (Catalonia, NE Spain), where it occurs on shaded limestone cliffs, near the Mediterranean seashore. It differs from related saxicolous species of Belonia mainly in the appearance of the thallus, ascospore septation and ecology. A key to the European species of Belonia is provided.
Preliminary Observations on the Growth of Transplanted Peltigera Canina Under Semi-Natural Conditions
Authors: Webster M. , Brown D. H.
Published: September 2002

Peltigera canina thalli have been successfully transplanted onto soil in a garden and in flowerpots. Garden samples showed marked seasonality and achieved growth rates of 6·4 cm per year. Pot-grown samples showed variation in the growth of individual thallus lobes and established that, under different soil hydration regimes, permanently hydrated thalli could sustain considerable linear growth rates for at least 140 days.
Two New Asian Xanthoria Species (Teloschistaceae, Lichenized Ascomycotina)
Authors: Kondratyuk S. , Poelt J.
Published: September 2002

Two corticolous species of the lichen genus Xanthoria, X. alfredi S. Kondratyuk & Poelt from Russian and Chinese Far East and X. aphrodites Kalb, Poelt & S. Kondratyuk from Cyprus are described. Morphological characters, in particular the presence of true rhizines within Xanthoria and their differences from hapters are indicated. Xanthoria novozelandica Hillmann is the first species of Xanthoria in which oil paraphyses have been found. A key to the treated species, including X. novozelandica and Xanthoria sp. from western North America is provided. The ecology and distribution of described species are discussed. Xanthoria alfredi and X. ulophyllodes probably constitute a typical species pair; X. alfredi and X. aphrodites are relict endemics.
Keys to Sterile, Crustose Saxicolous and Terricolous Lichens Occurring in the British Isles
Authors: Fryday Alan , Coppins Brian
Published: September 2002

A set of artificial keys is presented to all those crustose lichens (except most species of Lepraria and Leprolomd) which commonly occur without fruiting bodies on rock or soil in the British Isles. A number of predominantly corticolous species that occasionally also occur on rocks are included, as well as several undescribed but well-understood entities.
Notes on Xanthoria Th. Fr. III. Two New Species of the Xanthoria Candelaria Group
Authors: Kondratyuk Sergey
Published: September 2002

Two new species of Xanthoria are described and illustrated, and comments about their differences from related taxa are provided. These are: X. ascendens from bark and shrub remains in sea-shore sand dunes and hillsides in Argentina, Chile and Peru, and X. ucrainica, from bark, stones, and some man-made substrata in the Ukraine, Sweden, United Kingdom, Germany, Austria and Asian Russia.
Caloplaca maritima, a misunderstood species in western Europe
Authors: Arup Ulf
Published: September 2002

Caloplaca maritime B. de Lesd. is a marine to maritime species occurring in western Europe. It was first described as a variety of C. citrina (Hoffm.) Th. Fr., but in 1953 was transferred to specific level. Since then C. maritima has been more or less forgotten and/or misunderstood, mainly due to confusion with C. ruderum(Malbr.) J. R. Laundon, C. interfulges (Nyl.) J. Steiner, and C. marina (Wedd.) Zahlbr. The present paper reports on the existence of C. maritima, and clarifies its status in relation to C. marina and to other related species. A map of the presently known distribution is presented and the species is depicted. Lectotypes for Caloplaca citrine var. maritime and C. citrine var. maritime f. laevigata are selected.
Species Concepts in the Genus Usnea (Lichenized Ascomycetes)
Authors: Clerc Philippe
Published: September 2002

Practically most of the taxonomists working on vascular plants and fungi are using the so-called taxonomic species concept, relying largely on morphological criteria or other observable patterns of discontinuity and assuming that these patterns are reflecting the underlying genetic integrity of species. Such a concept is described in detail here for the genus Usnea. The typologicalview versus the populational view of species are discussed. The diagnostic value of characters used by previous and recent taxonomists of the genus is analysed. The fact that Usnea has such a bad taxonomic reputation is discussed. The use by J. Motyka, author of the world monograph published in the thirties, of characters that are strongly modified by environmental factors together with a typological view of species are thought to be mainly responsible for this. More than 770 names have been published worldwide so far and it is suggested that around 50% are to be considered as synonyms.
Phylogenetic Studies of the Genus Arthonia
Authors: Sundin Rikard , Tehler Anders
Published: September 2002

A phylogenetic analysis is presented, based on 57 morphological, anatomical, chemical and ecological characters, including 19 species from the genera Arthonia, Arthothelium and Syncesia. The aim of the study was to test the monophylyof some of the groups within the genus Arthonia suggested, for example, by Redinger (e.g. species with reddish ascomata, with grey-pruinose ascomata and with brown-black hypothecia). The results strongly support that Arthonia and Arthothelium are paraphyletic genera. The best-supported node contains all Arthonia species together with A. crozalsiana de Lesd., A. ruana A. Massal. (both hitherto placed in Arthothelium) and Syncesia myrticola (Fée) Tehler. A well-supported clade is formed by a group of pioneer species, often non-lichenized or poorly lichenized, including the type species of Arthonia, A. radiata. The species with reddish and/or K+ reddish ascomata form one clade and the species with more or less brownish or blackish hypothecia form another clade with Syncesia myrticola, the sister group to the Opegraphaceae and Roccellaceae. The results are discussed and compared with Redinger' grouping. Relationships to other genera within Arthoniaceae are briefly discussed. Arthothelium scandinavicumi Th. Fr., Arthonia dispersa (Schrad.) Nyl., A. punctiformis Ach. and A. mediella Nyl. are lectotypified.
Studies of Ammonia Uptake and Loss by Lichens
Authors: Miller James E. , Brown Dennis H.
Published: September 2002

The passive uptake of ammonium ions to extracellular cation binding sites has been demonstrated for a range of lichen species. The possible competitive effect of other cations on ammonium binding is discussed. Binding of uncharged gaseous ammonia to exchange sites was also shown. The rapid loss of exchangeable ammonium from extracellular sites has been demonstrated and, because the greatest losses occur in living material, intracellular uptake is inferred. The labile nature of bound ammonium means that transfer of material to the laboratory for analysis may result in the underestimation of the amount bound.
Lecanora compallens and L. Sinuosa, Two New Overlooked Corticolous Lichen Species from Western Europe
Authors: van Herk C. M. , Aptroot A.
Published: September 2002

Lecanora compallens and L. sinnosa, two corticolous lichens, are described nas species new to science on the basis of numerous collections. Lecanora compallens is a sorediate species, known only as sterile. It is probably common in Western Europe, but overlooked because it is very similar to L. expallens. Chemically, the new species is identical with L. strobilina, of which it may represent a sorediate counterpart. Lecanora sinuosa is a new species similar to L. chlarotera and so far only known from a limited area in the Netherlands and Germany, although it may be overlooked elsewhere. Lecanora sinuosa is very close to L. hybocarpa with which it shares the puhcaris-type epihymenium inspersed with fine crystals but differs markedly by its thick thallus and thick and sinuous apothecium margin.
Phylogenetic Analysis of the Lichen Family Umbilicariaceae based on nuclear ITS1 and ITS2 rDNA Sequences
Authors: Ivanova Natalia V. , Depriest Paula T. , Bobrova Vera K. , Troitsky Alexey V.
Published: September 2002

The lichen family Umbilicariaceae is accepted by most lichenologists as consisting of two genera, Lasallia and Umbilicaria. The monophyly of these two genera was examined by phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide sequences of ITS 1 and ITS2 rDNA. Sequences of these regions from three Lasallia and 17 Umbilicaria species were aligned to those of seven representatives of the outgroup taxa including Eurotiales, Onygenales and Caliciales (Mycocaliciaceae) and subjected to maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood and neighbour-joining analyses. The resulting phylogenetic hypotheses supported the monophyly of the representative species of Lasallia. However, the species of Umbilicaria did not form a monophyletic sistergroup to Lasallia due to the basal placement of other Umbilicaria species in some analyses. Based on these analyses, if Lasallia is recognized as a separate genus then Umbilicaria appears to be paraphyletic. Although further taxon sampling is required to resolve the monophyly of Umbilicaria, for the present we recommend retaining the current treatment of Lasallia as separate from Umbilicaria.
A Study on the Genetic Variability of Biatora Helvola using Rapd Markers
Authors: Printzen Christian , Lumbsch H. Thorsten , Schmitt Imke , Feige G. Benno
Published: September 2002

Biatora helvola is a corticolous crustose lichen occurring in boreal and montane spruce and spruce-fir-beech forests. After the last glaciation, spruce reinvaded Europe from three refugia situated in the Carpathians, southeastern parts of the Alps and the Ural Mts., resulting in a slightly disjunct distribution. Our aim was to find out whether the glacial fragmentation of the distributional area of spruce is reflected by genetic differences in a typical spruce-forest lichen. Collections of Biatora helvola from Scandinavia and various parts of Central Europe were investigated using RAPD analysis. Algal free periclinal sections of the apothecia were obtained using a freezing microtome and transferred directly into PCR tubes. Six different RAPD primers were used. The data were analysed using PAUP*. It was shown that genetic differences between samples of B. helvola reflect the glacial disjunction of spruce in Europe.
A Re-Examination of Generic Concepts of Baeomycetoid Lichens Based on Phylogenetic Analyses of Nuclear ssu and Lsu Ribosomal Dna
Authors: Platt Jamie L. , Spatafora Joseph W.
Published: September 2002

The lichen symbiosis has evolved several times within the fungal kingdom, although the total number of lichenization events leading to extant taxa is still unclear. Two lichenized families, the Icmadophilaceae and Baeomycetaceae have been classified in the Helotiales. Because the Helotiales are predominantly nonlichenized, this suggests that these families represent independent evolutionary episodes of lichenization from the Lecanorales. As a first step towards understanding the evolution of the lichen symbiosis within this order, we tested recent hypotheses concerning the segregation of lichen genera between the two lichen families. Specifically, we used phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide sequence data from nuclear small-subunit and large-subunit ribosomal DNA to test the morphology-based hypotheses that Dibaeis is a distinct genus from Baeomyces and that Dibaeis is a member of the Icmadophilaceae rather than the Baeomycetaceae. Phylogenetic analyses of nuclear SSU rDNA and combined SSU and LSU rDNA data support the hypothesis that Dibaeis is more closely related to IcmadophUa than it is to Baeomyces. Therefore, these data support the resurrection of Dibaeis from its previous synonymy with Baeomyces based on the characters of ascocarp colour and ascus morphology. The recognition of two distinct genera is also consistent with character state distribution of unique lichen acids.
Group I Intron Versus its Sequences in Phylogeny of Cetrarioid Lichens
Authors: Thell Arne
Published: September 2002

Phylogenetic trees based on group I intron sequences and on internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences of mycobiont ribosomal genes were calculated and compared. Eight cetrarioid and four non-cetrarioid species of the Parmeliaceae were compared. The phylogeny based on group I intron sequences is partly congruent with the ITS sequence phylogeny. Group I intron sequences are presumably less informative for infragenic studies. The introns have a length of 214–233 nucleotides, and differ at up to 33% of the bases between species. All introns analysed are located between the positions 1516 and 1517 of the fungal 18S ribosomal RNA gene. Cetrarioid lichens form a non-homogeneous group within the Parmeliaceae according to both group I intron and ITS sequences.
Does Tree Age Predict the Occurrence and Abundance of Usnea Longissima in Multi-Aged Submontane Picea Abies Stands?
Authors: Rolstad Jørund , Rolstad Erlend
Published: September 2002

In boreal Scandinavia Usnea longissima is a rare epiphytic lichen associated with old spruce (Picea abies) forests. To test whether tree age was an important determinant of the occurrence and abundance of U. longissima at the scale of a forest stand we estimated thallus numbers on 1008 trees within three submontane spruce stands in south-central Norway. The stands were of all ages and multi-layered and had been selectively cut previous to the 1940s. There was no relationship between number of U. longissima thalli and tree age among trees with dbh of ≥ 10 cm. The most consistent pattern was a positive relationship between occurrence and number of thalli and stem diameter. After controlling the covariance of stem diameter, there was a tendency for a negative relationship between number of thalli and tree age. The results suggest that in old-growth resembling stands, with already established U. longissima populations, tree size (here measured as stem Diameter) is a better predictor of thallus number than tree age. This does not contradict the possibility that other environmental characteristics, associated with stands of older age, may be important for the establishment and growth of U. longissima populations.
The Lichen Genus Usnea On Quercus Suber In Iberian Cork-Oak Forests
Authors: Fos Simón , Clerc Philippe
Published: September 2002

Fifteen species of Usnea are recorded from Iberian cork-oak forests: U. ceratina, U. comma, U. dasaea, U. esperantiana, U. flammea, U. fulvoreagens, U. glabrata, U. hirta, U. mutabilis, U. rubicunda, U. subcornuta, U. subfloridana U. subscabrosa, U. substerilis and U. wasmuthii. A key for these species is provided. Details of morphology, chemistry, distribution, ecology and taxonomy are discussed. Usnea dasaea is reported as new to the Iberian Peninsula. New chemotypes of U. fulvoreagens (with squamatic acid) and U. wasmuthii (with psoromic acid) have been identified. Distribution maps of U. dasaeaand U. subcornuta in Europe are presented. A new combination, Usnea subfloridana subsp. praetervisa (Asahina) P. Clerc, is proposed.
High-Light-Intensity Damage to the Foliose Lichen Lobaria Pulmonaria within Natural Forest: The Applicability of Chlorophyll Fluorescence Methods
Authors: Gauslaa Yngvar , Solhaug Knut Asbjørn
Published: September 2002

The annual course of irradiance was recorded at two vertical and even-aged neighbouring Quercus stems, one rich in L. pulmonaria, one without. Irradiance never exceeded 610 μmol photons m−2 s−1 at the L. pulmonaria site, whereas the L. pulmonaria-deficient site could experience 2 h daily 2000 μmol photons m−2 s−1, and 6 h above 1000 μmol photons m−2 s−1 during a clear day in early spring. Thalli of L. pulmonaria were transplanted to these two stems. During the first 40 days (April–May), transplants at the L. pulmonaria-deficient site developed severe chlorophyll degradation, and a substantial reduction in maximal PS II efficiency (Fv/Fm) even when measured after a 48-h recovery period at low light intensity. Extensive bleaching was formed along light-exposed sides of the tiny ridges on the upper side. Subsequent to this damage, FV/FM gradually rose to nearly normal levels during the following year. This apparent recovery was probably mainly due to irreversible loss of damaged chlorophyll, but also to some level of acclimation. No damage was observed in control transplants on the L. pulmonariarich tree, which were the only transplants gaining sufficient growth for new attachment to the new substratum during the 397-day transplantation period. Nevertheless, a fine-scale, but highly significant seasonal variation in FV/FM of control transplants reflected variations of even low irradiance levels. FV/FM, as measured after a 48-h recovery period at low light intensity, is an efficient meth for recording permanent high light damages at and shortly after damage is formed. However, FV/FM is not a useful estimator of chronic long-term damage.
Sporostigma, a New Calicioid Genus in Arthoniales
Authors: Grube Martin
Published: September 2002

The new genus Sporostigma is introduced for the remarkable species Arthonia melaspora. The genus is characterized by mazaediate ascomata and dark brown ascospores. Relationships with other genera are discussed.
Cybebe gracilenta in an ITS/5.8S rDNA based phylogeny belongs to Chaenotheca (Coniocybaceae, lichenized Ascomycetes)
Authors: Tibell Leif
Published: September 2002

Cybebe was described as a monotypic genus in the Coniocybaceae distinguished from Chaenotheca by its unusual ascus ontogeny and its unpigmented spore wall. In a molecular phylogeny based on maximum parsimony analyses of their ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDXA sequences, specimens of Cybebe gracilenta formed a strongly supported group with Chaenotheca gracillima. Thisgroup in turn is also well supported as a part of Chaenotheca indicating that the features characteristic of Cybebe are indeed autapomorphic and that Cybebe gracilenta should be included in Chaenotheca.