bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dry matter production and in vitro dry matter digestibility of tillers among napiergrass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach) varieties
Authors: Ishii Yasuyuki , Yamaguchi Nobuaki , Idota Sachiko 
Published: June 2008

AbstractDry matter production and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) of tillers in napiergrass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach) were compared in twice‐cut field‐grown plants among three varieties with variable plant types, that is, Wruk wona of the tiller weight type, Taiwan A146 of the tiller number type and Merkeron of the intermediate type. The effect of the late July and the early September first cutting dates was also compared. Changes in the length and dry matter weight (DMW) of each tiller were investigated every month with some canopy structural characteristics and the IVDMD of the leaf blade (LB) and stem with leaf sheath (ST) of the harvested sample were determined at both the first cutting and the second cutting in early November. Annual total of herbage dry matter yield (HDMY) and in vitro digestible dry matter yield were the highest in Wruk wona, followed by Taiwan A146 and Merkeron in both cutting dates and the effect of the first cutting date on HDMY was dependent on plant type. The first cutting for the tiller weight type of Wruk wona should be favorable in early September due to the highest first‐cut HDMY, derived from the vigorous growth in each tiller. For the tiller number type of Taiwan A146, cutting was favorable in late July, due to the highest second‐cut HDMY by the largest number of regrown tiller. The DM production at the first and second cuttings positively correlated with leaf area development, mediated by the emerged individual leaf area on the tillers at the first cutting and by the tiller number on which several leaves attached at the second cutting. The IVDMD tended to be negatively related with DMW in both LB and ST of each tiller in each variety and this tendency reduced the varietal difference in IVDDMY, compared with that in HDMY.
Varietal differences in nitrate nitrogen concentration of Sudangrass (Sorghum sudanense (Piper) stapf)
Authors: Sunaga Yoshihito , Harada Hisatomi , Hatanaka Tetsuya 
Published: June 2008

AbstractField experiments were conducted in 1998 and 2000 to examine varietal differences in nitrate nitrogen (nitrate‐N) concentrations among 13 Sudangrass (Sorghum sudanense (Piper) Stapf) commercial varieties under heavy nitrogen application. Significant differences in nitrate‐N concentrations among the 13 varieties were observed. The maximum nitrate‐N concentrations were 1.9 and 3.2 times larger than the minimum concentrations in 1998 and 2000, respectively.The varietal differences in the nitrate‐N concentrations of Sudangrass were examined using the method developed by Harada et al. (1998, 2000). That is, the nitrate‐N concentration of a whole plant on a dry matter basis can be estimated by multiplying the concentration factor by the dilution factor. The concentration factor is the nitrate‐N concentration of the stem on a fresh matter basis and the dilution factor is the dry matter partitioning ratio of the stem divided by the dry matter ratio of the stem.Two late‐flowering varieties (late varieties) had higher dilution factors than early flowering varieties (early varieties), resulting in higher nitrate‐N concentrations than the early varieties. Among the early varieties, nitrate‐N concentrations were strongly correlated with concentration factors and dilution factors with correlation coefficients of 0.971 and 0.963, respectively. Dilution factors were highly correlated with the dry matter ratio of the stem and the dry matter partitioning ratio of the stem with correlation coefficients of −0.887 and 0.615, respectively. Varieties with low nitrate‐N concentrations, had characteristics to reduce nitrate‐N, that is, a lower concentration factor and dry matter partitioning ratio of the stem, and a higher dry matter ratio of the stem.There was a positive correlation between nitrate‐N concentrations and total nitrogen (total‐N) concentrations. However, nitrogen uptake of Sudangrass was correlated not with the total‐N concentration, but with the dry matter yield. Therefore, a variety with a high dry matter yield has a high nitrogen uptake, even if it has a low nitrate‐N concentration. HS9401 is the most useful variety for reducing nitrate‐N concentrations and enhancing nitrogen uptake among those tested
Genetics and molecular breeding in Lolium/Festuca grass species complex
Authors: Yamada Toshihiko , Forster John W. , Humphreys Michael W. , Takamizo Tadashi 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPerennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and Italian ryegrass (L. multiflorum) are regarded as ideal grass species for use as animal forage in temperate grassland agriculture. Ryegrasses establish and grow quickly and provide dense swards of highly nutritious and easily digestible forage that can be turned into healthy meat and animal products for human consumption. However, their use is restricted as they lack persistency, especially in marginal areas and locations that are subject to summer and winter stresses and drought stress. Close relative species from within genus Festuca are much better adapted to such abiotic stresses but, by contrast, do not compare well in animal forage provision to Lolium species as they show poor establishment and comparatively lower quality characteristics. Lolium and Festuca species hybridize naturally and exhibit high frequencies of gene exchange in the hybrid condition. Intergeneric hybrids (Festulolium) between Lolium and Festuca species are being used to broaden the gene pool and to provide the plant breeder with options to combine high quality traits with broad adaptations to a range of environmental constraints. Festulolium varieties have promise as novel grasses with high forage quality and resistance to environmental stress and can thereby improve grassland productivity, persistency and benefit incomes. Recent progress on Festulolium breeding programs is described here. Conventional forage grass breeding programs rely on basis observable phenotypes using the natural genetic variation found between and within varieties or ecotypes. Genetic improvement of forage grasses by conventional breeding programs is very slow due to the obligate outbreeding and perennial nature of grasses. Advances in genomics and gene manipulation can complement and enhance conventional plant breeding programs. Many studies concerning the implementation of DNA markers, high‐throughout gene discovery, genome‐wide gene expression analysis and gene manipulation are currently being conducted for forage grasses. Recent progress on molecular and genomic research activity in the genus Lolium and Festuca is reviewed.
Cathepsin B protease is required for metamorphism in silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Wang Gen‐Hong , Liu Chun , Xia Qing‐You , Zha Xing‐Fu , Chen Jie , Jiang Liang 
Published: June 2008

AbstractCathepsin B belongs to lysosomal cysteine protease of the papain family. Temporal and spatial expression analysis of cathepsin B of Bombyx mori (BmCtB) was carried out based on Expression Sequence Tags (ESTs) data, oligonucleotide microarray, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and quantitative real‐time PCR. Expression of BmCtB was observed in all of the tissues and stages. Among the 10 tested tissues, the fat body and posterior silk gland are the two most enriched tissues with BmCtB. During Bombyx development, there was an expression fastigium of BmCtB during metamorphosis. RNA interference was used to suppress the expression of cathepsin B during metamorphosis. Significant developmental defective phenotypes were obtained in the RNAi treated group. The dramatically reduced expression of BmCtB was confirmed by Northern blot and quantitative real‐time PCR. These evidences strongly suggest cathepsin B protein‐ase was predominantly involved in the metabolism process of fat body and the posterior silk gland and was critical for metamorphism and development of silkworm, Bombyx mori.
Short‐term cold storage of blowfly Lucilia sericata embryos
Authors: Zhang Bo , Numata Hideharu , Mitsui Hideya , Goto Shin G. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe developmental rate under low temperatures and cold tolerance were investigated in embryos of the blowfly Lucilia sericata. The larvae of this species are now widely used in maggot debridement therapy. Embryonic development was dependent on temperature, with a lower developmental threshold of 9.0 °C. The duration of the egg stage at a rearing temperature of 25 °C was 14 h, and a low temperature of 12.5 °C successfully prolonged this period to 66 h. Embryonic stages differed markedly in their cold tolerance; young embryos were less tolerant to cold than old ones. Late embryonic stages are suitable for cold storage at 5 °C and the storage for 72 h did not decrease the hatching rate by more than 50%. In the mass‐rearing process required for maggot debridement therapy, either of these two simple protocols would be beneficial.
Isolation and characterization of insecticidal activity of (Z)‐asarone from Acorus calamus L.
Authors: Yao Yingjuan , Cai Wanlun , Yang Changju , Xue Dong , Huang Yanzhang 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe insecticidal activity of Acorus calamus L. rhizome‐derived material against adults of Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky was examined by using repellency method and contact toxicity. The biologically active constituent of the A. calamus rhizome was separated and identified. The results showed that the ethanol extract of A. calamus had strong repellency and contact effect to S. zeamais and the active constituent of the A. calamus was characterized as (Z)‐asarone by spectroscopic analysis. Responses from the tests varied with exposure times and doses. In the repellency test, ethanol extract of A. calamus had 93.92% repellency at 629.08 μg/cm2 but only 71.38% at 157.27 μg/cm2 12 h after treatment. As a contrast, (Z)‐asarone showed 84.50% repellency at 314.54 μg/cm2 and 77.02% at 78.63 μg/cm2 12 h after treatment. In the filter paper diffusion test, ethanol extract of A. calamus caused 95.56% and 17.78% mortality to S. zeamais at 314.54 μg/cm2 and 78.63 μg/ cm2 4 days after treatment, while (Z)‐asarone brought about 100.00% and 15.56% mortality at 40.89 μg/cm2 and 15.73 μg/cm2 respectively. These results indicate that the insecticidal activity of the A. calamus extract may be due to (Z)‐asarone.
Parasitism‐induced effects on host growth and metabolic efficiency in Plutella xylostella larvae parasitized by Cotesia vestalis or Diadegma semiclausum
Authors: Huang Fang , Cao Ting‐Ting , Shi Min , Chen Ya‐Feng , Chen Xue‐xin 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe nutritional physiology of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, larvae was examined after parasitization by the solitary endoparasitoids Cotesia vestalis or Diadegma semiclausum. Examinations were performed in two phases, one was examined at the time point of 24 h post‐parasitization, and the other was done at the end of the 4th instar larvae of host. Rates of growth, food consumption, assimilation, excretion, and respiration were calculated as well as approximate digestibility and the rate ratios ECI (percent efficiency of conversion of ingested food to body substance), and ECD (percent efficiency of conversion of digested food to body substance). Parasitization by C. vestalis resulted in significant decrease in the rates of growth, feeding, excretion, assimilation, and respiration, but the final dry rate of respiration at the end of last larval stadium was elevated. The ECI and ECD were also reduced as the result of parasitization, but digestibility was increased. All these parameters in the larvae parasitized by D. semiclausum at 24 h post‐parasitization were also significantly changed compared to the control; however, these differences were quantitatively, but not qualitatively before pupation, similar to those resulted from parasitization by C. vestalis. In spite of the similarities of the parasitism‐induced effects caused by these endoparasitoids, the final metabolic rate, that is, the rate of intake of nutrients required to compensate for metabolism, was much lower in the larvae parasitized by C. vestalis than that of the larvae parasitized by D. semiclausum. All of the results discussed here will contribute toward explaining the different ways these two wasps regulate the parasitoid‐host relationship.
The saproxylic beetle assemblage associated with different host trees in Southwest China
Authors: Wu Jie , Yu Xiao‐Dong , Zhou Hong‐Zhang 
Published: June 2008

AbstractDead wood is a habitat for many insects and other small animals, some of which may be rare or endangered and in need of effective protection. In this paper, saproxylic beetle assemblages associated with different host trees in the subtropical forests in southwestern China were investigated. A total of 277 species (1 439 specimens) in 36 beetle families were collected from 117 dead wood samples, of which 101 samples were identified and respectively belonged to 12 tree genera. The number of saproxylic beetle species varied greatly among logs of different tree genera, with the highest diversity on logs of Juglans. Generally, broad‐leaved trees had a higher richness and abundance of saproxylic species than coniferous trees. Cluster analysis revealed that assemblages from broad‐leaved tree genera were generally similar (except for Betula) and assemblages from coniferous trees formed another distinct cluster. The subsequent indicator analysis proposed that there are different characteristic species for different cluster groups of host tree genera. In our study, log diameter has no positive influence on beetle species density. Conversely, comparisons of individual‐based rarefaction curves suggested that beetle species richness was highest in the small diameter class both in coniferous and broad‐leaved tree genera. With increased wood decay, proportion of habitat specialists (saproxylic beetles living on one tree genus) decreased, whereas proportion of habitat generalists (living on more than three tree genera) increased. The beetle species density was found to be higher in early stages, and decreased in later stages as well. A negative influence of altitude on saproxylic beetle species richness and abundance was detected. It was indicated that different tree genera and altitudes possibly display cross effects in modulating the altitudinal distribution and host preference of the beetles.
Labial tip sensilla of Blissus leucopterus leucopterus (Hemiptera: Blissidae): Ultrastructure and behavior
Authors: Baker Gerald T. , Chen Xiong , Ma Peter W.K. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe cuticular sensory receptors that are found on the apex of the labium of hemipterans play an important role in their feeding behavior. In this study we describe the ultrastructure, number, and distribution of sensilla on the labium apex of the chinch bug, Blissus leucopterus leucopterus. Each apical field of sensilla on the labium contains 11 uniporous peg sensilla and one sensillum chaeticum. The uniporous peg sensilla are innervated by 4–5 bipolar neurons that send dendrites in the lumen of each peg. Three neurons are associated with each sensillum chaeticum, two neurons have dendrites in the lumen of the sensillum, and the third dendrite ends in a tubular body at the base of the sensillum. Behavioral tests that involve chemical blockage of the sensory receptors show the importance of the labial sensilla in feeding behavior. Both morphological and behavioral evidence indicate that the labial sensilla have a chemosensitive function.
Ultrastructural features of the hypopharyngeal glands in the social wasp Polistes versicolor (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)
Authors: Britto Fábio Barros , Caetano Flávio Henrique 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe wasps of the genus Polistes have been considered the key to understanding the evolution of social behavior in Hymenoptera. Several studies have shown that the development of organized insect societies was accompanied by the evolution of structures like exocrine glands, which became specialized to perform specific functions. This article investigates the ultrastructural and cytochemical features of the hypopharyngeal glands of Polistes versicolor. These glands have been studied in depth in social bees, where they occur only in nurses and produce the royal jelly. Our results revealed that these glands basically did not vary among individuals or between sexes. They are constituted by spherical cells, each with a large nucleus and well‐developed rough endoplasmic reticulum. Secretion vesicles are abundant, but lipid droplets were not observed, indicating that these glands may not have a role in pheromone synthesis. Acid phosphatase was detected in lysosomes, and also free in the cytosol, but did not seem to be related with cell death. Thus, our results suggest that the hypopharyngeal glands of P. versicolor may not have a specialized social role, but could produce digestive enzymes.
Evidence of temporary mining in the Cretaceous fossil mine assemblage of Negev, Israel
Authors: Krassilov Valentin A. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractTemporary mining is a peculiar behavioral trait in leaf parasites requiring adaptations of consecutive larval stages to the endophytic and ectophytic life. The first fossil evidence for the origin of the trait comes from the Cretaceous (Turonian) plant–insect locality of the Negev Desert containing rich trace assemblages of leaf parasites, including blotch mines with leaf pieces cut out for case construction, as well as attached larval cases. The host plants are deciduous broadleafs or aquatic angiosperms with emergent leaves, suggesting that initial acquisition of the habit might have been related to leaf abscission and the risk for the larva being chocked in the mine during floods. Unlike tracks of permanent miners, temporary mines never co‐occur on leaves with other type mines, which attests to their effect of enhancing plant resistance. Mine predation appears to have been widespread in the Cretaceous biotic community, suggesting a possibility of top‐down regulation of mining habits at this early stage of their evolutionary development.
Practical strategies to improve treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Fleury‐Milfort Evelyne 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPurpose: The purpose of this review was to document the need for, barriers to, and available treatment options for patients with type 2 diabetes, with a focus on modern insulins and delivery systems.Data sources: Extensive review of the scientific literature was carried out, concentrating on data supporting the need for tight glycemic control, and efficacy and safety data on oral antidiabetes agents, insulins (particularly insulin analog therapies), incretins, and insulin delivery devices.Conclusions: Nurse practitioners and other clinicians need to be aware of the urgent need to help patients optimize glycemic control using therapies that can bring blood glucose levels within the target range throughout the day. Choice of therapy must take into account anticipated hemoglobin A1c decrease, tolerability, effect on comorbid conditions, and cost. As diabetes progresses, insulin is the only hypoglycemic agent with unlimited potential to lower blood glucose; earlier initiation of insulin therapy can help many patients achieve glucose targets more rapidly and provide symptomatic relief. Modern insulins and related therapies in conjunction with innovative delivery devices, appropriate counseling, and patient education can help overcome many barriers to insulin therapy.Implications for practice: The incidence of type 2 diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate. More aggressive treatment, based on the pathophysiology of the disease, is necessary and should include greater attention to control both fasting and postmeal glucose excursions, as well as earlier introduction of insulin therapy that is both effective and acceptable to patients. The educated use of oral antidiabetes agents, modern insulin analogs, incretin agents, and innovative delivery devices can help many patients achieve blood glucose targets in a scientifically logical manner that takes into account a patient’s lifestyle needs.
Targeting cardiovascular risk: Early identification of insulin resistance
Authors: Fortson Julie , Howe Linda , Harmon Corinne , Sherrill Windsor Westbrook 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPurposes: To review current data regarding the known pathophysiology of insulin resistance and its associated sequelae related to cardiovascular risk, to discuss the current measures for insulin sensitivity and studies associated with measures of insulin resistance, and to summarize the impact of insulin resistance.Data sources: CINAHL, Health and Wellness Resource Center, and Medline.Findings: Insulin resistance yields a diminished sensitivity of key target cells to the actions of insulin and is present early in the course of insulin resistance syndrome, also known as metabolic syndrome, leading to prediabetes and cardiovascular disease approximately 10 years before the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.Implications for practice: Early identification of insulin‐resistant individuals would allow extra time for preventive measures and may alter the progression of the development of associated cardiovascular risk. A recommendation for a treatment plan of identified insulin‐resistant individuals is provided.
A collaborative approach to wellness: Diet, exercise, and education to impact behavior change
Authors: Turner Saundra L. , Thomas Andria M. , Wagner Peggy J. , Moseley Ginger C. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPurpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate an interdisciplinary Wellness Program developed to help patients implement behavior changes necessary to begin weight reduction.Data sources: A 12‐week program was developed to offer a choice of three diets, education, behavior change, and support groups that would allow participants to work through their concerns. A total of 109 participants provided feedback throughout the program and had varying degrees of change. Measures included education, food diaries, support, exercise, and anthropomorphic measurements.Conclusions: Participants who attended the exercise classes showed the most positive results with weight loss, and the greater the number of times attending the exercise classes, the more weight was lost. Readiness and willingness to change and the degree of involvement in the program also proved to be major factors in the program.Implications for practice: While obesity and overweight continue to be major healthcare issues in the United States, a real positive approach to helping patients with this problem has not been found. Continued study and support are needed to help patients deal with the impact of weight on overall health and well‐being.