bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong genetic influence on IPN vaccination‐and‐challenge trials in Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L.
Authors: Ramstad A , Midtlyng P J
Published: May 2008

Two series of experimental challenge trials were performed for evaluation of multivalent oil‐adjuvanted vaccines with and without an infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) antigen component. In both the trial series, Atlantic salmon were hatched, reared, vaccinated and subjected to temperature and light manipulation to induce smoltification. When ready for sea the fish were transported to the VESO Vikan experimental laboratory for bath or cohabitant challenge with IPNV. In the first series, four vaccination and bath challenge trials involving 2‐year classes of experimental fish were conducted. In the second series, three groups of eyed eggs of Atlantic salmon allegedly differing in their innate resistance to IPNV were used (Storset, Strand, Wetten, Kjøglum & Ramstad 2007). Hatching, rearing and smoltification were synchronized for each group, and fish from each genetic group were randomly allocated IPN vaccine, reference vaccine or saline before being placed into parallel tanks for bath or cohabitant challenge. In the first series of trials, IPN‐specific mortality commenced on day 10–12 after bath challenge. Replicates showed similar results. In trials 1 and 2 belonging to the same experimental fish year class, the average cumulative control mortality reached 60.6% and 79.5%, respectively, whereas in trials 3 and 4 belonging to the following year class the control mortality was consistently below 50%. In the second series of trials, the experimental fish originating from allegedly IPN susceptible parents consistently showed the highest cumulative mortality among the unvaccinated controls (>75%) whereas smolts derived from allegedly IPNV resistant parents showed only 26–35% control mortality. The IPN‐vaccinated fish experienced significantly improved survival vs. the fish immunized with reference vaccine, with RPS values above 75% in the IPN susceptible strain. In the IPN resistant strain, the protection outcomes were variable and in part non‐significant. The outcome of both the trial series suggests that control mortalities above 50% are necessary to reliably demonstrate specific protection with IPN vaccines.
Subcellular components of Vibrio harveyi and probiotics induce immune responses in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum), against V. harveyi
Authors: Arijo S , Brunt J , Chabrillón M , Díaz‐Rosales P , Austin B
Published: May 2008

Bacterial subcellular components and probiotics were successful for the stimulation of immunity and the prevention of Vibrio harveyi infections in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum). Rainbow trout were immunized with whole inactivated cells of V. harveyi to obtain polyclonal antibodies against specific antigens. Western blotting showed a unique reactive band (∼93 kDa) between serum and bacterial proteins from outer membrane proteins (OMP) and extracellular products (ECP). Probiotics were selected according to their capability to inhibit V. harveyi. Two of these bacteria, i.e. A3‐47 and A3‐51, showed cross‐reactivity with V. harveyi antiserum. Their OMPs and ECPs were reactive with V. harveyi antiserum in bands of ∼93 kDa for A3‐51 and higher for A3‐47. In vivo tests determined that fish fed with A3‐51 produced cross‐reactive antibodies against V. harveyi and also, the survival of these fish infected with V. harveyi was high, being similar to the level achieved with vaccinated fish. Thus, the probiotics, when administered as live preparations, were capable of producing cross‐reactive antibody against specific bacterial pathogens.
Early development of resistance to the salmon louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Krøyer), in juvenile pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha (Walbaum)
Authors: Jones S , Kim E , Bennett W
Published: May 2008

This study examined the effect of fish weight on the susceptibility of post‐emergent pink salmon to Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Krøyer). Three trials were conducted, each with two stocks of pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha (Walbaum), at starting weights of c. 0.3, 0.7 and 2.4 g, respectively. In each trial, duplicate tanks of fish were exposed to 0, 25 (only in Trial 1), 50 or 100 copepodids per fish. Mortality in Trial 1 was c. 37%, regardless of stock following exposures to 50 or 100 copepodids. Mortalities occurred up to 26 days after exposure, and more than 80% of the lice on the dead fish were chalimus stages. Infections with adult or preadult lice were observed on c. 35% of fish surviving to 37 days after exposure. Mortality was 5% in Trial 2 and there was no mortality in Trial 3. The abundance of L. salmonis was lower in Trial 3 compared with Trials 1 or 2. Histological changes in the skin coincident with fish growth included a thickening of the epidermis, infiltration of the dermis with fibroblasts by the end of Trial 1 and the first evidence of scales by the end of Trial 2; scales were evident throughout Trial 3. These results showed that the previously reported innate resistance to L. salmonis displayed by pink salmon develops in fish heavier than 0.3 g and appears to be functional by 0.7 g. This resistance coincided with changes to the epidermis and dermis, including the formation of scales. The present results indicate that elevated risk associated with L. salmonis infection among migrating post‐emergent pink salmon may occur during a relatively brief period before the fish reaches 0.7 g.
Sleep problems in children with autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, and typical development: a population‐based study
Authors: KRAKOWIAK PAULA , GOODLIN‐JONES BETH , HERTZ‐PICCIOTTO IRVA , CROEN LISA A. , HANSEN ROBIN L.
Published: May 2008

This study compared parent‐reported sleep characteristics in 2‐ to 5‐year‐old children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) to children with other developmental delays (DD) and typical development (TD). We included 529 children (303 ASD [167 males], 63 DD [46 males], and 163 TD [134 males]) enrolled in the CHARGE study, an ongoing population‐based case–control study. The mean age of participants was 3.6 years (standard deviation, 0.8 years). ASD diagnosis was confirmed with Autism Diagnostic Interview‐Revised (ADI‐R) and Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedules (ADOS). Cognitive and adaptive functioning was assessed using Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS), respectively. Demographic, medical and sleep history information were ascertained from California birth records, telephone interview, medical assessments at clinic visit, and parent‐administered questionnaires. Fifty‐three percent of children with ASD had at least one frequent sleep problem, followed by 46% of children with DD, and 32% of the TD group (P < 0.0001). Exploratory factor analyses of sleep history data yielded two factors: sleep onset problems and night waking. Children with ASD had marginally higher sleep onset factor scores and significantly higher night waking factor scores compared with the TD group. Factor scores for children with DD were intermediate between the ASD and TD groups. Cognitive or adaptive development did not predict severity of sleep problems in the ASD group.
Does REM sleep contribute to subjective wake time in primary insomnia? A comparison of polysomnographic and subjective sleep in 100 patients
Authors: FEIGE BERND , AL‐SHAJLAWI ANAM , NISSEN CHRISTOPH , VODERHOLZER ULRICH , HORNYAK MAGDOLNA , SPIEGELHALDER KAI , KLOEPFER CORINNA , PERLIS MICHAEL , RIEMANN DIETER
Published: May 2008

Primary insomnia (PI) is characterized by low subjective sleep quality which cannot always be verified using polysomnography (PSG). To shed light on this discrepancy, subjective estimates of sleep and PSG variables were compared in patients with PI and good sleeper controls (GSC). 100 patients with PI (age: 42.57 ± 12.50 years, medication free for at least 14 days) and 100 GSC (41.12 ± 13.99 years) with a sex distribution of 46 men and 54 women in each group were included. Both PSG and questionnaire variables showed clear impairments of sleep quality in PI compared with GSC. The arousal index within total sleep time was increased, which was mainly because of a strong increase within rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Subjectively, more PI than GSC subjects estimated wake times longer than obtained from PSG. Linear modeling analysis of subjective wake time in terms of PSG parameters revealed that in addition to PSG defined wake time, REM sleep time contributed significantly to subjective wake time. This REM sleep contribution was larger for PI than for GSC subjects. The findings suggest that REM sleep‐related processes might contribute to subjectively disturbed sleep and the perception of waking time in patients with PI.
Brain mapping of digestive sensations elicited by cortical electrical stimulations
Authors: Mulak A. , Kahane P. , Hoffmann D. , Minotti L. , Bonaz B.
Published: May 2008

Abstract The aim of the study was to obtain a comprehensive map of cortical areas from where digestive sensations during intracerebral electrical stimulations (ES) in epileptic patients are elicited. Direct cortical ESs were performed in 339 medically intractable epileptic patients selected to presurgical evaluation using chronically stereotaxically implanted intracerebral electrodes and audio–video‐EEG monitoring system. Digestive sensations were electrically induced on 723 different anatomical sites in 172 subjects (51%). According to the exclusion criteria, the final analysis includes 174 relevant stimulations evoked in 87 patients. The reported sensations referred predominantly to the upper part of the digestive tract including the epigastria and area over the periumbilical (n = 83; 48%), retrosternal (n = 17; 10%), pharyngeal (n = 31; 18%) and oral (n = 18; 10%) regions. The temporal pole (BA 38), hippocampus, amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC; BA 24/BA 32) were the typical anatomical locations connected with epigastric sensations. Retrosternal sensations were preferentially related to the ACC, while oro‐pharyngeal sensations were most related to the suprasylvian opercular cortex and the insula. Cortical ESs are followed by a great variability of induced digestive and associated symptoms corresponding to a widely distributed cortical network of visceral sensation processing, in which the limbic and paralimbic structures play a critical role.
Enteric co‐innervation of striated muscle fibres in human oesophagus
Authors: Kallmünzer B. , Sörensen B. , Neuhuber W. L. , Wörl J.
Published: May 2008

Abstract  Oesophageal striated muscle of several mammalian species receives dual innervation from both vagal motor fibres originating in the brain stem and enteric nerve fibres originating in myenteric ganglia. The aim of this study was to investigate this so‐called enteric co‐innervation in the human oesophagus. Histochemical and immunohistochemical methods combined with confocal laser scanning microscopy were utilized to study innervation of 14 oesophagi obtained from body donors (age range 47–95 years). In addition, the distribution of striated and smooth muscle in longitudinal and circular layers of the tunica muscularis was studied semiquantitatively. The upper half of the oesophagus was built up of both muscle types with a predominance (>50–60%) of striated muscle, whereas the lower half consisted of smooth muscle only. The majority of motor endplates was compact and ovoid. Enteric nerve fibres on ∼17% of motor endplates stained for neuronal nitric oxide synthase, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, galanin and neuropeptide Y and were completely separated from vagal cholinergic nerve terminals. There was remarkable variability of co‐innervation rates between striated muscle bundles with some reaching almost 50%. Myenteric neurons representing the putative source of enteric co‐innervating nerve fibres, stained for all these markers, which were almost completely colocalized with NADPH‐diaphorase. Our study provides evidence for enteric co‐innervation of striated muscle in human oesophagus. From these and recent functional results in various rodent species, we suggest that this innervation component represents an integral part of an intramural reflex mechanism for local most likely inhibitory modulation of oesophageal motility.
Protease‐activated receptor 2 and gut permeability: a review
Authors: Bueno L. , Fioramonti J.
Published: May 2008

Abstract Digestive tract proteases are best known for their proteolytic activity in the digestion of alimentary proteins. However, during the last decade, a possible role of proteases as signalling molecules has been emphasized with the discovery of a novel class of G‐protein coupled receptors located on cell membranes that may be activated by proteolytic cleavage of their N‐terminal extracellular domain. Type 2 protease‐activated receptors (PAR‐2) are cleaved by serine‐proteases such as trypsin and tryptase. PAR‐2 is present in many intestinal cell types and particularly on epithelial cells. Multiple functions have been demonstrated in the gut for PAR‐2, including epithelial permeability, mainly the intercellular permeability that is of paramount importance in the equilibrium between the external milieu (digestive contents) and the submucosal immune system. Alterations of both tissue and luminal levels of proteases or serine‐protease activity may affect gut permeability and subsequently the immune status of the mucosa. Activation of PAR‐2 on epithelial cells may directly affect cytoskeleton contraction by triggering phosphorylation of myosin light chain with subsequent changes in tight junction permeability. Enhanced fecal protease level has been recently reported in both organic (ulcerative colitis) and functional (irritable bowel syndrome) intestinal disorders and may play a role in the pathogenesis of such diseases.
High Efficiency Reconstitution of a Human–Mouse Chimeric Fab of CAb‐1 Antibody Specific to Human Colon Cancer
Authors: Yang X.‐M. , Xing J.‐L. , Liao C.‐G. , Yao X.‐Y. , Li Y. , Chen Z.‐N.
Published: May 2008

Monoclonal antibody (mAb) has been widely applied in the treatment of human diseases, especially in malignant tumours. However, most antibodies produced in mouse by hybridoma technology might induce severe human anti‐mouse reactions. We had reported a murine mAb CAb‐1 of therapeutic interest for its specifically binding to a cell surface glycoprotein of human colon cancer. Here, we attempted to generate a reconstituted human–mouse chimeric Fab (cFab) of CAb‐1 in vitro to reduce its antigenicity and increase its capacity of penetration. First, the genes of heavy and light chain variable region (VH, VL) of CAb‐1 were cloned. Then, the chimeric light chain (cL) and Fd (cFd) were constructed and expressed in Escherichia coli. Finally, the reconstituted cFab was obtained by gradient dialysis of the mixture of cFd and cL. SDS‐PAGE and western blot analysis showed the reconstituted cFab with a recovery rate of 70.2% when the initial total concentration of cL and cFd proteins to be 100 μg/ml. The reconstituted cFab maintained the affinity and specificity to colon cancer cells compared with its parental antibody as determined by immunostaining analysis, FACS and ELISA. Our results established a foundation for further application of the cFab in diagnosis and treatment of colon cancer.
Evidence for De Novo Expression of Thymic Insulin by Peripheral Bone Marrow‐derived Cells
Authors: Carlsén M. , Cilio C. M.
Published: May 2008

Thymic expression of insulin has been suggested to play a major role in negative selection of autoreactive T cells and tolerance induction against pancreatic β cells. Furthermore, the expression of insulin in peripheral antigen‐presenting cells (APC) has been clearly demonstrated but whether thymic negative selection and tolerance induction also depends on peripheral influx of self‐antigens (Ag) remains to be conclusively demonstrated. In this study, we wanted to test whether peripheral influx of insulin expressing cells might contribute to negative selection. In order to address this question, we used mice deficient in the Ins1 and Ins2 genes. Embryonic thymi either deficient in both insulin genes or expressing Ins2 were dissected and transplanted under the kidney capsule of athymic nude mice recipients. After indicated time points, grafted thymi were removed and analysed for insulin re‐expression and for the emergence of autoreactive T cells. The analysis revealed a re‐expression of Ins2 in grafted insulin deficient thymi suggesting that self‐Ag expression in the thymus is not only intrinsically regulated but peripheral influx of APC capable of expressing insulin might contribute to thymic selection and tolerance induction.
Prevalence of and factors associated with current asthma symptoms in school children aged 6–7 and 13–14 yr old in Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Garcia Elizabeth , Aristizabal Gustavo , Vasquez Catalina , Rodriguez‐Martinez Carlos E. , Sarmiento Olga L. , Satizabal Claudia L.
Published: May 2008

This cross‐sectional study of children aged 6–7 years and adolescents aged 13–14 years in Bogotá, Colombia, assessed the prevalence of asthma symptoms and their associations with dietary, health, and behavioral habits. This study is part of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC)‐phase III. Asthma prevalence among the children was assessed using a parental self‐administered written questionnaire (WQ), and among adolescents using a WQ together with a video questionnaire (VQ). Associations were estimated with bivariate and multivariate analysis. The study found that the 6–7 year age‐group were more likely to report current asthma symptoms than the 13–14 year age‐group (10.4% [WQ] vs. 8.6% [WQ] and 8.0% [VQ], respectively). Factors associated with current asthma symptoms among the 6–7 year age‐group included higher maternal education (OR = 1.7, [95% CI 1.2–2.6], p = 0.007), a cat in the home during the last year (OR = 1.5, [95% CI 1.0–2.3], p = 0.036), watching TV 1–2 hours/day (OR = 2.1, [95% CI 1.2–3.9], p = 0.013), and medication with acetaminophen in the first and most recent year of life (OR = 1.8, [95% CI 1.3–2.4], p < 0.001; OR = 2.2, [95% CI 1.7–2.8], p < 0.001, respectively) or antibiotics in the first year of life (OR = 1.9, [95% CI 1.4–2.5], p < 0.001). Among the 13–14 year age‐group, factors associated with current asthma symptoms included medication with acetaminophen during the last year (OR = 1.8, [95% CI 1.4–2.3], p < 0.001); cereal, milk, and fruit consumption 3 or more times weekly (OR = 1.5, [95% CI 1.1–1.9], p = 0.010; OR = 0.8, [95% CI 0.6–1.0], p = 0.046; OR = 0.6, [95% CI 0.4–1.0], p = 0.031, respectively). Overall, compared with that in other Latin American centers, asthma prevalence in Bogotá is close the lower estimates. However, associations with dietary, health, and behavioral habits need further study to assess their complex relationship with asthma.
Skin prick test predictive value on the outcome of a first known egg exposure in milk‐allergic children
Authors: Diéguez MC , Cerecedo I. , Muriel A. , Zamora J. , Sánchez‐Cano M. , De la Hoz B.
Published: May 2008

Children with milk allergy have higher incidence of other food allergies, especially egg allergy. The objective of this study was to ascertain the accuracy of the prick test in children with IgE‐mediated milk allergy for diagnosing egg allergy. Children under the age of 1 yr who came consecutively to Allergy Department 2003–05, and were diagnosed with IgE‐mediated milk allergy were selected for this study. Egg introduction was completely avoided until the age of 14 months when clinical history, skin prick tests (SPT), specific‐IgE antibodies determination and egg challenge test were performed. One hundred and four milk‐allergic children were included. At least one positive prick test to any egg allergen was found in 65 out of the 104 (62.5%). Thirty‐eight (36.5%) were allergic to egg proteins as well. Prick tests with egg white and ovomucoid (OVM) had the best diagnostic performances showing the largest areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The optimal diagnosis cut‐off point was 6 mm for egg white and 5 mm for OVM. The positive likelihood ratios for these cut‐off points were: 2.95 (95% CI: 1.74–4.99) for egg white prick test, and 20 (95% CI: 2.9–143.7) for OVM prick test. Children with specific IgE‐mediated cow’s milk allergy must be closely followed as a risk group for egg allergy. Early diagnosis is necessary and the SPT has shown itself to be a very useful tool for diagnosing immediate IgE reactions to egg on first known exposure.
Safety and efficacy of a new extensively hydrolyzed formula for infants with cow’s milk protein allergy
Authors: Niggemann B. , Von Berg A. , Bollrath C. , Berdel D. , Schauer U. , Rieger C. , Haschke‐Becher E. , Wahn U.
Published: May 2008

Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is best treated by complete elimination of cow’s milk from the diet. For infants with CMPA who cannot be breast‐fed, formulas based on extensively hydrolyzed proteins or on amino acids are the preferred substitutes for cow’s milk‐based formulas. In this study, we compared the tolerance and growth of infants with CMPA who were fed a new extensively hydrolyzed formula containing lactose (eHF) with those who were fed an amino acid formula (AAF). This was a prospective, multi‐center, randomized, reference‐controlled study. Seventy‐seven infants <12 months old with suspected CMPA were enrolled. In 66 of these, CMPA was confirmed by oral challenge in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) or by a medical history of severe allergic reaction to cow’s milk and a positive skin prick test. These infants were then tested for their reaction to eHF and AAF in a DBPCFC. All infants tolerated both formulas and were randomized to receive either eHF (n = 34) or AAF (n = 32) for 180 days. Growth (weight, length, and head circumference) and tolerance [skin, gastro‐intestinal, and respiratory tract symptoms of allergy] were evaluated after 30, 60, 90, and 180 days. There were no significant differences between the two groups in any of the growth measurements. Length and head circumference were similar to Euro‐growth standards, but weight was slightly lower. Gastro‐intestinal and respiratory tract symptoms of allergy were also similar in the two groups. However, whereas SCORAD scores for atopic dermatitis remained constant throughout the study in infants‐fed eHF, there was a slight decrease in those fed AAF. Infants‐fed eHF had significantly fewer incidents of vomiting than infants‐fed AAF and a significantly higher frequency of soft stools. The new eHF is safe and well tolerated in infants diagnosed with CMPA.
Apoptosis, airway inflammation and anti‐asthma therapy: From immunobiology to clinical application
Authors: Spinozzi Fabrizio , Benedictis Diletta de , De Benedictis FM
Published: May 2008

T lymphocyte apoptosis is essential for maintaining immune system homeostasis. Experimental evidence suggests apoptosis control mechanisms may be impaired in inflammatory conditions, particularly airway Th2‐type allergic diseases. This review briefly examines the mucosal immune system homeostasis and common apoptotic pathways and discusses impaired apoptosis, allergy, airway inflammation, remodelling and fibrosis. Finally, the paper presents an update on pharmacological targeting of apoptosis to control airway inflammation in patients with allergic asthma.
Peanut and tree nut allergy in childhood
Authors: Skripak Justin M. , Wood Robert A.
Published: May 2008

Peanut and tree nut allergies present multiple challenges in their presentation and management. These challenges have become increasingly relevant in recent years, as these allergies appear to have become more common. An estimated 1–2% of the population in the USA is allergic to peanut or tree nuts. Peanut allergy typically presents with symptoms in one of the first few exposures to peanut. Diagnosis is based on clinical history along with skin prick test, or quantitation of allergen‐specific immunoglobulin E (IgE), and oral food challenges when indicated. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the only current management approach is strict avoidance of the food. This is clearly an imperfect option as it can be difficult to avoid completely peanut and tree nuts and accidental exposures are not uncommon. Only about 20% of those with peanut allergy, and <10% of those with tree nut allergy, are reported to acquire tolerance. Additionally, peanut allergy can recur, with one study finding a recurrence rate of 8%. Peanut and tree nuts are the foods most frequently associated with fatal episodes of anaphylaxis. This is of particular concern in adolescents and young adults, among whom life‐threatening and fatal food allergy‐related reactions are most common.
The Black Band Disease of Atlantic Reef Corals.
Authors: Rutzler Klaus , Santavy Deborah L. , Antonius Arnfried
Published: May 2008

Abstract.Some reef building corals in the western Atlantic are susceptible to an infection known as black band disease that is caused by the cyanophyte (cyanobacterium)Phormidium corallyticumRützler& Santavy. Field observations on the barrier reef of Belize and on reefs of the Bermuda platform indicate the disease is fairly common in susceptible species. Coral tissue destruction monitoredin situin Belize reveals rapid spreading rates and seasonality of the disease. Laboratory experiments confirm thatP. corallyticumis the etiologic agent and we speculate that a toxic exudate is the cause of histolysis observed in coral penetrated by the organism. Coral tissue is further broken down by a rapidly developing disease microcommunity, including bacteria and ciliate protozoans, identified with the aid of light, SEM, and TEM photomicrography. Study ofP. coraltyticumin culture away from its host coral reveals several ecological requirements, including dependence for optimal growth on yet unidentified organic substances contained in coral tissue. Healthy corals inoculated with various control organisms ‐ including the gliding bacteriumBeggiatoa, a filamentous chlorophyte, and six cyanophytes other thanP. corallyticum ‐did not develop the disease. Gorgonacean corals, too, can be artificially infected withP. corallyticum, but naturally occurring gorgonian bands are composed only of noninfectious cyanophyceans.
Nutrient Enrichments of Waters of “Golfo de San Jose” (Argentina, 42 oS), Growth and Species Selection of Phytoplankton
Authors: Charpy‐Roubaud Claude J. , Charpy Loic J. , Maestrini Serge Y.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Coastal Patagonian sea waters had been differentially nutrient‐enriched to determine (i) the magnitude of the algal biomass supported and (ii) which species were able to best compete for the available nutrients. Nitrogen was found to be the nutrient limiting growth of the natural phytoplankton population. The addition of NO3 at 25 μg at 1‐1 led to a 10 to 30 μg 1‐1 increase in chlorophyll a in all but those treatments containing trace metal additions. The best yield coefficients were obtained when a chelator (EDTA) was added with NO3. A pool of nine diatom species were common in the N03 supplemented waters and the addition of vitamins along with NO3 allowed two of the nine species to dominate.
Biokarst on Limestone Coasts, Morphogenesis and Sediment Production
Authors: Schneider Jürgen , Torunski Horst
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Biokarst‐forms on limestone coasts are developed and arranged according to the bionomic zonation. The development of biokarst is the result of bioerosion, a synergistic effect of biological corrosion by endoliths and biological abrasion by grazers.

The cumulative effect of biogenic carbonate destruction leads to coastal destruction with a resulting highly profiled morphology on the limestone surfaces along the coastal profile. Under the influence of environmental factors a zonation of organisms develops which brings in turn a zonation of erosion rates (0.1‐1.1 mm a‐1) resulting in biokarst‐forms such as rock holes, rock pools and notches.

Products of bioerosion on limestone coasts are dissolved carbonate (by biological corrosion, 10–30% of the decomposed limestone) and particulate carbonate (by biological abrasion, 70–90% of the decomposed limestone) both of which contribute directly or indirectly to nearshore sedimentation. Size and shape of the bioerosional grains are determined by the boring pattern of the endoliths. The fine‐grained sediments (maximum within the fraction 20–63 μm) contribute 3–25 % to the nearshore sediments.

Drastic changes in the biological zonation (like the mass invasion of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus in the Northern Adriatic since 1972 which eliminated nearly the entire macrophyte zone) due to unknown factors or pollution can have a profound effect on the bioerosion rates, altering them by as much as a factor of ten.
A Sponge‐Eating Worm from Bermuda: Branchiosyllis oculata (Polychaeta, Syllidae)*,†
Authors: Pawlik Joseph R.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Branchiosyllis oculata is a small, errant polychaete that lives only on the surface of sponges: among inshore Bermudian sponges, 9 out of 16 species surveyed were infested. All of these sponges were conspicuously colored, but the bodies and gut contents of associated polychaetes matched the sponge color only for Tedania ignis (red), Cinachyra alloclada (yellow) and Sphecio‐spongia othella (brownish‐black). For the remaining 6 sponge species, the polychaete bodies were uncolored and the polychaete gut contents were inconspicuously brown or grey. Uncolored polychaetes with grey gut contents were removed from a dark green Tethya actinia and placed on a red Tedania ignis: 2 days later, the polychaete gut contents were red, although the tissues were still uncolored. Acetone extractions of Tedania ignis and Cinachyra alloclada were prepared from sponge tissue and from the gut‐free tissue of their respective polychaetes: absorption spectra matched for each sponge/polychaete pair. To test the influence of ingested sponge pigments on polychaete body color, red polychaetes from Tedania ignis were induced to autotomize their posterior ends, transplanted to other sponge species and allowed to regenerate new posterior segments for 20 days. At the end of the experiment the original segments were still red, but the regenerated ones were either yellow (for polychaetes transplanted onto Cinachyra alloclada, on which resident worms are yellow) or colorless (for polychaetes transplanted onto Chondrilla nucula or Tethya actinia, on which resident worms are uncolored). The foregoing observations suggest that (1) the polychaetes consume the soft parts of the sponges on which they live and (2) the pigments vary among sponge species: pigments from some sponges are stored in the polychaete body, while pigments from other sponges are not. Additional information on the morphology, distribution and natural history of Branchiosyllis oculata is presented and discussed.
Benthic Community and Sediment Types: A Structural Analysis
Authors: Fresi Eugenio , Gambi Maria Cristina , Focardi Silvano , Bargagli Roberto , Baldi Franco , Falciai Lucia
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The distribution of the macrobenthic community, in relation to various physical and chemical characteristics of the sediment, was studied along the coast of Southern Tuscany (Central Tyrrhenian) in an area under the influence of the Ombrone River outflow.

The zonation of the benthos was found to be primarily under the control of a gradient of water movement, as is reflected by variations in the sediment structure from the coast to the open sea. This correlation is somehow influenced by secondary gradients such as the degree of mixing of the sediment and the deposition of terrigenous materials along the river plume.
The Depth Limits of Red Sea Stony Corals: An Ecophysiological Problem (A Deep Diving Survey by Submersible)
Authors: Fricke Hans W. , Schuhmacher Helmut
Published: May 2008

Abstract.Along the Sinai coast of the Red Sea a deep diving survey with the research submersible GEO investigated the depth distribution of stony corals. 47 hermatypic species were identified below 50 m; 9 species extended below 100 m. Their depth distributions are related to light penetration. Observed changes in hermatype growth forms with depth were investigated and interpreted as photo‐adaptations. 10 species of ahermatypic corals were found between 100–205 m. Ahermatype growth forms are adaptations to plankton feeding and do not change with depth.
Physiology of Laminaria
Authors: Drew Edward A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Discs of lamina tissue excised from Laminaria digitata, L. hyperborea and L. saccharina were unaffected by cutting. They photosynthesized at a constant rate for several days and increased in area and weight during prolonged bubble cultures at a rate comparable with that of plants on the shore.
Physiology of Laminaria
Authors: Drew Edward A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Photosynthetic and respiratory rates of Laminaria digitata, L. hyperborea and L. saccharina measured at 10oC and 28.5mW cm‐2 (1422 μE m‐2 s‐1), irrespective of ambient conditions, showed a peak of photosynthetic potential in the spring. Adjustment of metabolic potentials to the rates expected at ambient temperatures shifted this peak to summer and early autumn. Annual carbon budgets, which appeared to be more sensitive to changes in respiratory load than in irradiance, indicated a considerable surplus over respiratory needs for L. digitata and L. saccharina but a deficit for L. hyperborea.
Coarse‐Scale Horizontal Distribution of Phytoplankton in a Semi‐Enclosed Coastal Area
Authors: Ignatiades Lydia
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The horizontal distribution of phytoplankton in relation to changes in the physico‐chemical conditions of a eutrophic semi‐enclosed embayment is described. Phytoplanktonic populations derived from a station interval of 6 miles (coarse scale variations) were compared by quantitative (standing stock) and qualitative (species composition, diversity, Diatom/Flagellate ratio) criteria. The results showed that quantitative and qualitative parameters differed in their sensitivity and were affected differently by environmental perturbations. Along a horizontal transect with defined variations in nutrient concentrations, changes in standing stock levels were not significant, but differences in species composition existed and caused coefficients of variation between stations for species diversity up to 50% and of the Diatom/Flagellate ratio up to 120%. Furthermore, distributional differences among certain flagellate species (Prorocentrum micans, Prorocentrum balticum) and diatom species (Nitzschia closterium, Chaetoceros curvisetus) were recorded which showed that the flagellate species were distributed more uniformly than the diatoms along a transect with progressive decrease in nutrient concentrations.
The Benthic Phase of the Life Cycle of Penaeus semisulcatus De Haan (Crustacea Decapoda) along the Southeastern Coast of the Mediterranean
Authors: Tom M. , Shlagman A. , Lewinsohn CH.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Recruitment, migration, growth and longevity of populations of Penaeus semisulcatus along the southeastern coast of the Mediterranean were investigated. The general pattern of the life cycle of P. semisulcatus and the parameters affecting it were identified.

Relative population density, measured by catch per unit effort, as well as relative age estimated by age group body length were used to study the pattern of the benthic phase of the life cycle.
Mass Mortality in the Gulf of Trieste: The Course of Community Destruction
Authors: Stachowitsch Michael
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Over a period of two weeks in September, 1983 a high biomass macroepifauna community characteristic of a greater part of the Gulf of Trieste suffered mass mortality. The affected area is estimated to cover several hundred km2. Within 2–3 days all sponges and the brittle star Ophiothrix quinquemaculata, which together make up over 60 % of the community biomass, were dead. Benthic fish, mostly gobiids, were already affected on the first day and littered the bottom in great numbers. Concurrently the complete spectrum of macroinfauna species including (in order of emergence) holothurians, burrowing shrimp, echinoids, polychaetes, sipunculids and bivalves appeared on the sediment surface. Within one week sea stars and all remaining ophiurids had died. At this time hermit crabs were found lying dead next to their shells. Several anemones survived into the last week, although many showed signs of severe stress and lay on the surface with exposed pedal discs. Oxygen deficiency is the apparent immediate cause of this phenomenon and several possible factors leading to anoxic conditions in the Gulf are discussed. This ecological catastrophy provides evidence that the affected community, considered to have achieved relative stability by developing a strategy effectively dampening the effect of physical oscillations, has a distinct tolerance limit to stress. The Gulf of Trieste, among the most productive areas in the Mediterranean Sea, must be considered as sensitive; September is a particularly critical month.
Zooplankton Feeding Ecology: Contents of Fecal Pellets of the Copepods Acartia tonsa and Labidocera aestiva from Continental Shelf Waters Near the Mouth of the Mississippi River
Authors: Turner Jefferson T.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Feeding habits of adult female Acartia tonsa and Labidocera aestiva and L. aestiva CV copepodites were examined by comparing fecal pellet contents and available phytoplankton. Samples were collected from eight stations in the northern Gulf of Mexico near the mouth of the Mississippi River. Fecal pellets of both copepods contained remains of a wide variety of chain‐forming and solitary phytoplankters of various sizes, as well as remains of other crustaceans. Contents of fecal pellets generally mirrored the composition and relative abundance of fluctuating assemblages of available natural phytoplankton. Both species fed upon a wide size range of cells, from solitary centric diatoms of 2–8 um diameter up to large solitary centrics of 33–53 urn diameter. Both copepods also ingested the elongate solitary pennate diatom Thalassiothrix sp. (264–330 urn long) and chain‐forming diatoms such as Skeletonema costatum. Remains of large or chain‐forming diatoms and crustaceans were more dominant in fecal pellets of L. aestiva. This suggests that L. aestiva is primarily a raptorial feeder, grasping larger particles while A. tonsa is a more typical suspension feeder. Both copepods are opportunistic omnivores, however, and there is considerable overlap in their diets.
Temporal and Morphological Variations of Growth in a Natural Stand of Posidonia oceanica (L.) Delile*
Authors: Wittmann Karl J.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Growth of Posidonia oceanica (L.) DELILE was studied in a natural stand in 4 m depth at Ischia (Gulf of Naples). Renewal and growth of leaves was continuous throughout the year but showed strong seasonal modulation. The major factor for individual leaf growth as well as for the seasonal aspects of the entire foliage is seasonal modulation of leaf appearance rather than of leaf growth. Leaf area index varied between 2 nm2 m‐2 in autumn and 6 m2 m‐2 in late summer. Annual production is estimated to be 613 g dw m‐2 for leaf blades, 54 g dw m‐2 for leaf sheaths, and 27 g dw m‐2 for rhizomes. Rhizome production is highly different between the primary and the secondary growth axis (274 versus 30 mg dw ‐shoot‐1 y‐1 respectively) in plagiotrope growth. Both foliage and rhizome growth are positively correlated with leaf width.
Influence of Certain Organic Substances on Growth and Colony Formation of Asterionella glacialis Castracane (Bacillariophyceae)
Authors: Teng Tzu‐Chiu
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Organic substances are suspected to influence the unpredictable, episodic blooms which characterize the planktonic pennate diatom Asterionella glacialis in certain coastal waters. Experiments to test its general responsiveness to organic enrichments in terms of growth rate and colony formation were carried out. An axenic clone was grown at 10° C, 0.039 l min‐1,12:12 LD cycle in Guillard's f/2 medium enriched with eight different organic substances. Growth rates in organically‐enriched media during exponential phase usually exceeded those in f/2 medium alone. Cell yields after 12 days in media enriched with glycyl‐glycin and trypticase + yeast extract were significantly greater than in the other treatments. Longer chain lengths accompanied organic enrichment, notably with trypticase + yeast extract and 100ppm soil extract. These results suggest that Asterionella glacialis is positively responsive to elevated levels of certain organic substances. A potential effect of organic substance ‐ trace metal ‐ silica interactions on colony‐size is suggested.
A Quantitative Study of the Stony Coral Fishery in Cebu, Philippines
Authors: Ross Michael A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The Philippines is generally accepted to be the center of the international trade of stony corals for ornamental use. Despite existing legal bans on the collection and export of stony corals in the Philippines, the coral trade continues to date, particularly in Cebu. This paper reports on the specific market demand for stony corals in Cebu and the effects of commercial collection based on the results of a quantitative study of two shallow coral reef areas subjected to large differences in collection effort. Comparison of the measured coral community parameters suggests selective population changes and reduced abundance of exploited coral populations as a result of commercial collection. Estimates of the natural mortality, fishing mortality and yield are presented for the two sampled populations of Pocillopora verrucosa, utilizing the method of GRIGG (1976). Based on the study results and a review of reported coral growth rates and coral colony size at reproductive maturity, the potential for resource management of stony corals on a sustainable yield basis is ‐ discussed.
The Ecology of Marine Hydroids and Effects of Environmental factors: A Review
Authors: Boero F.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The history of the study of hydroid ecology is briefly outlined, pointing out the major methodological innovations which have contributed to the development of ecological research in the last thirty years. The influence of the major ecological factors on hydroid ecology and biology is synthesized, taking into account: substratum, water movement, light, salinity, sedimentation, exposure to air, temperature, food availability and pollution. Besides affecting the species composition of the hydroid community, these factors also influence the morphology and general biology of the individual species. The adaptations and reactions of hydroids to different intensities of the various environmental factors and to their combinations are reported.
Dietary Shifts in the Queen Triggerfish, Balistes vetula, in the Absence of its Primary Food Item, Diadema antillarum
Authors: Reinthal Peter N. , Kensley Brian , Lewis Sara M.
Published: May 2008

Abstract.The long‐spined sea urchinDiadema antillarumhas been reported to be the major food item of the queen triggerfish,Balistes vetulain the Caribbean. This sea urchin has undergone a massive mortality on reefs throughout the Caribbean during 1983. The dietary habits of twenty‐three queen triggerfish from patch reef habitats in Belize were examined. It was found that crabs and chitons now form the major dietary items whenD. antillarumis not available. It is suggested that this predator, which was previously specialized on a single food item, is able to shift resource utilization in the absence of its primary food source, and that the queen triggerfish can capture diverse prey from a wide variety of habitats.
Depth Zonation, Micro habitat, and Morphology of Three Species of Acanthemblemaria (Pisces: Blennioidea) in the Guif of California, Mexico
Authors: Lindquist David G.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The utilization of the spatial resources of refuge type, size and depth placement is investigated in the three sympatric species of Acanthemblemaria at the cape region of Baja California, Mexico. A. balanorum occupies barnacle testes (Balanus tintinnabulum), A. macrospilus occupies barnacles and mollusk tubes (vermetid gastropods and pholadids), and A. crockeri occupies only mollusk tubes (pholadids). Refuge diameter overlap is higher than overlap in depth. A. crockeri consistently occupies depths below 5m. Competition experiments for barnacle refuges among the three species indicate that A. balanorum is a superior competitor for such refuges. Prior residency of a less superior species changes the outcome of refuge competition in its favor. The morphological specialization of A. balanorum and A. macrospilus is evident in a high correlation between head size and standard length. A. balanorum selects refuges with entrance diameters highly correlated to standard length.
Increase in Cliona delitrix Infestation of Montastrea cavernosa Heads on an Organically Polluted Portion of the Grand Cayman Fringing Reef
Authors: Rose Christopher S. , Risk Michael J.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. A marked increase in the biomass of Cliona delitrix infesting Montastrea cavernosa substrate occurred in a portion of the Grand Cayman fringing reef affected by the discharge of untreated fecal sewage. It is suggested that the six‐fold increase in bacteria biomass (both “coliforms” and natural marine bacterioplankton) in reef waters receiving the sewage effluent is linked to a five‐fold increase in sponge biomass at the polluted site relative to a control site. The elevated density of C. delitrix biomass signifies a similar increase in the amount of M. cavernosa skeleton that has been eroded by this sponge and reduced to silt‐sized sediment. Thus, the proliferation of a bioeroding organism in the sewage‐stressed environment has caused a shift in the carbonate balance on the reef.
Salinity‐Temperature Relations and Morphotypes of a Mixed Population of Coccoid Cyanobacteria from a Hot, Hypersaline Pond in Israel
Authors: Dor Inka , Hornoff Miriam
Published: May 2008

Abstract. A mixed population of unicellular and colonial cyanobacteria was transferred into culture from a hypersaline helio‐thermal pond in the vicinity of the Dead Sea. The entire complex of strains, incubated in Dead Sea water of varying salinity and temperature, showed a pronounced shift of the maximal growth from a salinity of 72 g l‐1 at 30 oC up to 142 g 1‐1 at 50 oC. Over the above range of salinities and temperatures, these cyanobacteria were capable of about four divisions per day, providing that any increase in salinity was coupled with the suitable increase in temperature. The above peculiar adaptation can explain the prominent success of this group of microorganisms in the extreme and unstable ecological conditions of hypersaline habitats. Amounts of slime accumulating in the cultures were proportional to the incubation temperature.
Ibla cumingi (Crustacea, Cirripedia) ‐A Gonochoristic Species (Anatomy, Dwarfing and Systematic Implications)
Authors: Klepal Waltraud
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Ibla cumingi (Crustacea, Cirripedia) is a gonochoristic species with dwarf males. The anatomy of both sexes is described and compared with that of other Cirripedia s. str. Systematic implications on the basis of anatomy and biology are given. The degree of dwarfing in the male and the possible cause and way of reduction are discussed.