bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A DNA fingerprinting procedure for ultra high‐throughput genetic analysis of insects
Authors: Schlipalius D. I. , Waldron J. , Carroll B. J. , Collins P. J. , Ebert P. R. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractExisting procedures for the generation of polymorphic DNA markers are not optimal for insect studies in which the organisms are often tiny and background molecular information is often non‐existent. We have used a new high throughput DNA marker generation protocol called randomly amplified DNA fingerprints (RAF) to analyse the genetic variability in three separate strains of the stored grain pest, Rhyzopertha dominica. This protocol is quick, robust and reliable even though it requires minimal sample preparation, minute amounts of DNA and no prior molecular analysis of the organism. Arbitrarily selected oligonucleotide primers routinely produced ~50 scoreable polymorphic DNA markers, between individuals of three independent field isolates of R. dominica. Multivariate cluster analysis using forty‐nine arbitrarily selected polymorphisms generated from a single primer reliably separated individuals into three clades corresponding to their geographical origin. The resulting clades were quite distinct, with an average genetic difference of 37.5 ± 6.0% between clades and of 21.0 ± 7.1% between individuals within clades. As a prelude to future gene mapping efforts, we have also assessed the performance of RAF under conditions commonly used in gene mapping. In this analysis, fingerprints from pooled DNA samples accurately and reproducibly reflected RAF profiles obtained from individual DNA samples that had been combined to create the bulked samples.
Developmental variation in epidermal growth factor receptor size and localization in the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Lycett G. , Blass C. , Louis C. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractThe AGER gene encoding the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) of the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae was cloned and sequenced. It represents a canonical member of this family of tyrosine kinase proteins exhibiting many similarities to orthologues from other species, both on the level of genomic organization and protein structure. The mRNA can be detected throughout development. Western analysis with an antibody raised against the extracellular domain of the mosquito protein suggests developmental variation in protein size and location that may be involved in the function of EGFR in the mosquito.
Haploid chromosomes in molecular ecology: lessons from the human Y
Authors: Hurles Matthew E. , Jobling Mark A. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractWe review the potential use of haploid chromosomes in molecular ecology, using recent work on the human Y chromosome as a paradigm. Chromosomal sex‐determination systems, and hence constitutively haploid chromosomes, which escape from recombination over much of their length, have evolved multiple times in the animal kingdom. In mammals, where males are the heterogametic sex, the patrilineal Y chromosome represents a paternal counterpart to mitochondrial DNA. Work on the human Y chromosome has shown it to contain the same range of polymorphic markers as the rest of the nuclear genome and these have rendered it the most informative haplotypic system in the human genome. Examples from research on the human Y chromosome are used to illustrate the common interests of anthropologists and ecologists in investigating the genetic impact of sex‐specific behaviours and dispersals, as well as patterns of global diversity. We present some methodologies for extracting information from these uniquely informative yet under‐utilized loci.
Molecular differentiation of the Old World Culicoides imicola species complex (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae), inferred using random amplified polymorphic DNA markers
Authors: Sebastiani F. , Meiswinkel R. , Gomulski L. M. , Guglielmino C. R. , Mellor P. S. , Malacrida A. R. , Gasperi G. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractSamples of seven of the 10 morphological species of midges of the Culicoides imicola complex were considered. The importance of this species complex is connected to its vectorial capacity for African horse sickness virus (AHSV) and bluetongue virus (BTV). Consequently, the risk of transmission may vary dramatically, depending upon the particular cryptic species present in a given area. The species complex is confined to the Old World and our samples were collected in Southern Africa, Madagascar and the Ivory Coast. Genomic DNA of 350 randomly sampled individual midges from 19 populations was amplified using four 20‐mer primers by the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique. One hundred and ninety‐six interpretable polymorphic bands were obtained. Species‐specific RAPD profiles were defined and for five species diagnostic RAPD fragments were identified. A high degree of polymorphism was detected in the species complex, most of which was observed within populations (from 64 to 76%). Principal coordinate analysis (PCO) and cluster analysis provided an estimate of the degree of variation between and within populations and species. There was substantial concordance between the taxonomies derived from morphological and molecular data. The amount and the different distributions of genetic (RAPD) variation among the taxa can be associated to their life histories, i.e. the abundance and distribution of the larval breeding sites and their seasonality.
Wolbachiainfection shared among planthoppers (Homoptera: Delphacidae) and their endoparasite (Strepsiptera: Elenchidae): a probable case of interspecies transmission
Authors: Noda H. , Miyoshi T. , Zhang Q. , Watanabe K. , Deng K. , Hoshizaki S. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractWolbachia, a group of parasitic bacteria of arthropods, are believed to be horizontally transmitted among arthropod taxa. We present a new probable example of interspecies horizontal transmission ofWolbachiaby way of an endoparasite based on the conformity ofWolbachiagene sequences. Field samples of two rice planthoppers,Laodelphax striatellusandSogatella furciferapossessed identicalWolbachia. Among three major endoparasites of planthoppers, a strepsipteran,Elenchus japonicus, harboured the identicalWolbachiastrain, suggesting strepsipteran transmission ofWolbachiafrom one planthopper to the other. NoWolbachiawas detected in a mermithid nematodeAgamermis unka,and dryinid wasps possessed different types ofWolbachia.
Conservation genetics of the rare and endangeredLeucopogon obtectus(Ericaceae)
Authors: Zawko G. , Krauss S. L. , Dixon K. W. , Sivasithamparam K. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractLeucopogon obtectusBenth. is a declared rare species found in the kwongan vegetation in Western Australia. Plants on a mineral sand mine and the rehabilitation area are subject to disturbance. Genetic diversity was examined within and among all known populations using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs) for conservation. Both molecular markers revealed a high percentage (> 89%) of polymorphic markers and a high mean genetic distance among individuals (D = 0.3). Analysis of molecular variance showed that 86.7% (RAPD) and 89.7% (AFLP) of variability was partitioned among individuals within populations. Exact tests showed no significant population differentiation. The analyses indicated thatL. obtectusexhibits high levels of genetic diversity despite small population sizes. The high levels of variability among individuals and the lack of clear population differentiation suggest that this species comprises a single, genetically diverse group. Conservation and management ofL. obtectusshould concentrate on maintaining the high levels of genetic variability through mixing genotypes and promoting outcrossing.
Genetic divergence of peripherally disjunct populations of the gastropod Batillariella estuarina in the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia
Authors: Pudovskis M. S. , Johnson M. S. , Black R. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractGeographically disjunct populations are unusual in marine species, but the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia, provide opporunities to study highly disjunct peripheral isolates of several species. The intertidal snail Batillariella estuarina occurs in isolated tidal ponds in the Abrolhos Islands, where it is at its northern limit, disjunct from mainland populations by 600–900 km. The species is thus disjunct both geographically and among the peripherally isolated populations in the Abrolhos Islands. Comparisons of allozymes at 11 polymorphic loci were made among populations from 10 ponds in the Abrolhos Islands and six sites from relatively continuous tidal flats at Albany, 900 km away, the nearest major set of populations. Among all 16 populations, subdivision was high (FST = 0.455). Although there were subtle differences between the geographical regions, the large majority of divergence occurred among the isolated ponds in the Abrolhos (FST = 0.441), and divergence on the tidal flats at Albany was only moderate (FST = 0.085). Characteristic of peripheral isolates, the pond populations have less polymorphism and fewer alleles than the more connected populations at Albany. Combined with evidence of genetic divergence in the gastropods Bembicium vittatum and Austrocochlea constricta, which have very similar geographical distributions to that of B. estuarina, these results indicate the potential evolutionary significance of peripherally isolated marine polpulations in the unusual habitats of the Abrolhos Islands.
Testing for recombination in a short nuclear DNA sequence of the European meadow grasshopper,Chorthippus parallelus
Authors: Ibrahim K. M. , Cooper S. J. B. , Hewitt G. M. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractSingle‐copy nuclear DNA sequences have high potential as a source of genetic markers for population analyses. However, the difficulties that arise when haplotypes that are the product of recombinational rearrangements are present require additional consideration. Two statistical methods for identifying potential recombinants by detecting anomalies in the distribution of variable sites along sequences were used to screen sequences from a single‐copy nuclear DNA fragment,cpnl‐1,of the European meadow grasshopper (Chorthippus parallelus). Five of the 71 haplotypes in thecpnl‐1data set showed nonrandom distribution of polymorphic sites using both methods. The second method pinpointed an additional four haplotypes. Estimates of the rate of recombination in the entire data set were obtained using standard methods. It is concluded thatcpnl‐1haplotypes have been involved in recombination or gene conversion events at a rate more than twice the mutation rate. This confirms that recombination and gene conversion are significant factors in the generation of haplotype variation in nuclear gene sequences. Thecpnl‐1haplotypes identified by the tests were present only in populations that have had recent contact; the Balkan and Turkish refugial populations and their postglacial colonies to the north. This is discussed in relation to the phylogenetic inferences drawn from the same data in a previous report.
Microsatellite DNA and recent statistical methods in wildlife conservation management: applications in Alpine ibex [Capra ibex (ibex)]
Authors: Maudet C. , Miller C. , Bassano B. , Breitenmoser‐Würsten C. , Gauthier D. , Obexer‐Ruff G. , Michallet J. , Taberlet P. , Luikart G. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractWe evaluated the usefulness of microsatellites and recently developed statistical methods for the conservation management of fragmented and reintroduced populations, using the alpine ibex (Capra ibex) as a model species. First, we assessed the effects of past reintroduction programmes on genetic diversity and population differentiation considering different population sizes and histories. We show that genetic variability in ibex populations (HE ≈ 0.13) is among the lowest reported from microsatellites in mammal species, and that the Alpi Marittime–Mercantour population has suffered from a severe genetic bottleneck associated with its reintroduction. Second, using a computer‐simulation approach, we provide examples and rough guidelines for translocation programmes concerning the number and origin of individuals for future reintroductions and for the reinforcement of populations with low genetic variability. Finally, we use the ibex microsatellite data to assess the usefulness of several published statistical tests for detecting population bottlenecks and assigning individuals to their population of origin. This study illustrates that microsatellites allow: (i) evaluation of alternative translocation scenarios by simulating different numbers and origins of ‘migrants’; (ii) identification of bottlenecked populations (especially using the Wilcoxon signed‐ranks test); and (iii) population assignment with a high certainty (P < 0.001) of almost 100% of the individuals (or trophies or carcasses) from two distant populations (especially using stucture or whichrun software).
Genetic evidence for male biased dispersal in the red‐billed quelea Quelea quelea
Authors: Dallimer M. , Blackburn C. , Jones P. J. , Pemberton J. M. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractIn order to detect sex‐biased dispersal in the red‐billed quelea Quelea quelea in southern Africa, we used the assignment index technique to determine the probability that individuals originated from the population in which they were sampled. This is the first time that this multilocus genetic test has been used in a bird species and is informative despite evidence that the population under study exhibits little genetic structure. There was a pattern of male‐biased dispersal, the first example in a passerine, and the first time that evidence of a sex‐biased pattern of dispersal has been shown for queleas.
Intracavernous application of diazepam: An alternative route of the seizure treatment − an experimental study in rabbits
Authors: DÜndarÖz RuŞen , DeĞim Tuncer , Sizlan Ali , YaŞar Mehmet , Denli Metin , Gökçay Erdal 
Published: March 2003

Abstract
Backround
: There is a general need to terminate seizures as soon as possible using anticonvulsant drugs via an intravenous (i.v.) route, but it is often difficult to achieve a secure i.v. line during the seizure, especially in children. However, it has been demonstrated that high volumes of fluid can be injected into the corpora cavernosa. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the absorption properties of diazepam (DZ) after intracavernous (i.c.) administration and whether therapeutically significant plasma concentrations can be obtained or not.
Methods
: Diazepam was administered to rabbits using both the i.v. and i.c route with a dose of 1 mg/kg. Blood samples were collected from the saphenous vein for a time period of 30 min. The levels of DZ in the blood were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography and their blood profiles were obtained and compared.
Results
: The insertions of the needle using this method were successful in all cases. The average time of inserting the needle was less than 5 s. There was no statistically significant difference between the i.v. and i.c. administration with regard of the blood DZ levels. Within 48 h after the experiment, none of the animals demonstrated any evidence of infection or disability.
Conclusion
: Our results demonstrated that commercially available parenteral DZ can be absorbed rapidly by the i.c. route in rabbits. Further studies are needed on the feasibility of this method before it is evaluated in humans.
Ethical dimensions of fetal research
Authors: Chervenak Frank A. , McCullough Laurence B. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractThis paper provides an account of major ethical dimensions of fetal research. A balanced approach is offered on the basis of the concept of the fetus as a patient. The paper offers criteria for a balanced approach to fetal research, an account of the informed consent process and consideration of whether selection criteria should include the woman’s preferences regarding abortion.
Domain switching between hrpR and hrpS affects the regulatory function of the hybrid genes in Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola
Authors: Schuster Martina , Grimm Charlotte 
Published: March 2003

AbstractIn prokaryotes, a diverse set of physiological processes is regulated by transcription factors which belong to the well‐conserved, enhancer‐binding protein (EBP) family. These regulatory proteins function together with the alternate sigma factor (σ54). Structurally, the EBPs are characterized by a central activator domain, containing the recognition motif for the RNA polymerase/σ54 complex (Eσ54), and the C‐terminal domain, containing a DNA‐binding helix–turn–helix motif. A regulatory system of the EBP type also exists in Pseudomonas syringae, where it controls the expression of genes required for the induction of disease symptoms and resistance responses in plants. The system consists of the two genes, hrpR and hrpS, which belong to the hrp (hypersensitive response and pathogenicity) gene cluster. The two genes show a high degree of structural and sequence similarities, but function at different positions in the hrp regulatory cascade of the bean pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola.In this paper, we were interested in the basis of the difference in specificity between hrpR and hrpS. The functional specificities of the two domains of hrpS and hrpR were analysed by domain switching. Complementation analyses with the hybrid genes and retardation experiments with the protein products showed significant differences between the respective domains of hrpS and hrpR.
Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato: the right pathogen, of the right plant, at the right time
Authors: Preston Gail M. 
Published: March 2003

Abstract Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato and the closely related pathovar P. s. pv. maculicola have been the focus of intensive research in recent years, not only because of the diseases they cause on tomato and crucifers, but because strains such as P. s. pv. tomato DC3000 and P. s. pv. maculicola ES4326 are pathogens of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. Consequently, both P. s. pv. tomato and P. s. pv. maculicola have been widely used to study the molecular mechanisms of host responses to infection. Analyses of the molecular basis of pathogenesis in P. s. pv. tomato reveal a complex and intimate interaction between bacteria and plant cells that depends on the coordinated expression of multiple pathogenicity and virulence factors. These include toxins, extracellular proteins and polysaccharides, and the translocation of proteins into plant cells by the type III (Hrp) secretion system. The contribution of individual virulence factors to parasitism and disease development varies significantly between strains. Application of functional genomics and cell biology to both pathogen and host within the P. s. pv. tomato/A. thaliana pathosystem provides a unique opportunity to unravel the molecular interactions underlying plant pathogenesis. Taxonomic relationship: Bacteria; Proteobacteria; gamma subdivision; Pseudomonadaceae/Moraxellaceae group; Pseudomonadaceae family; Pseudomonas genus; Pseudomonas syringae species; tomato pathovar. Microbiological properties: Gram‐negative, aerobic, motile, rod‐shaped, polar flagella, oxidase negative, arginine dihydrolase negative, DNA 58–60 mol% GC, elicits the hypersensitive response on tobacco. Host range: Primarily studied as the causal agent of bacterial speck of tomato and as a model pathogen of A. thaliana, although it has been isolated from a wide range of crop and weed species. Disease symptoms: Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum): Brown‐black leaf spots sometimes surrounded by chlorotic margin; dark superficial specks on green fruit; specks on ripe fruit may become sunken, and are surrounded by a zone of delayed ripening. Stunting and yield loss, particularly if young plants are infected. Reduced market value of speckled fruit. A. thaliana: Water‐soaked, spreading lesions, sometimes surrounded by chlorotic margin. Epidemiology: Seed borne. Survives as a saprophyte in plant debris, soil and on leaf surfaces. Dispersed by aerosols and rain splash. Development of disease symptoms favoured by leaf wetness and cool temperatures (55–77 °F/13–25 °C). Disease control: Pathogen‐free seed and transplants. Resistant and tolerant cultivars. Sanitation, rotation, and drip irrigation to reduce leaf wetness. Some measure of control with bactericides (copper, streptomycin).
Variation in structure and activity among elicitins from Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Qutob Dinah , Huitema Edgar , Gijzen Mark , Kamoun Sophien 
Published: March 2003

SUMMARYTranscripts encoding elicitin‐like protein domains were identified from similarity searches of Phytophthora sojae expressed sequence tags and were characterized with regard to molecular structure and elicitor activity. The P. sojae elicitin family consists of at least nine genes with products similar to previously described elicitins (SOJA‐2, SOJB, SOJ2, SOJ3, SOJ5, SOJ6 and SOJ7) or highly diverged from known sequences (SOJX and SOJY). The predicted structural features of seven (SOJA‐2, SOJB, SOJ2, SOJ3, SOJ6, SOJX and SOJY) of the elicitin preproteins were compared. All of the predicted elicitins possess a leader signal sequence and a core elicitin domain. Five (SOJ2, SOJ3, SOJ6, SOJX and SOJY) of the characterized elicitins also contain a variable C‐terminal region. In addition, SOJX and SOJY contain a C‐terminal hydrophobic membrane‐spanning domain. An analysis of expression patterns of the elicitin transcripts showed that SOJA‐2, SOJB, SOJ2, SOJ3 and SOJ6 were expressed in axenically grown mycelia and during infection, but not in zoospores. In contrast, SOJX and SOJY were predominantly and specifically expressed in zoospores. Selected elicitin domains were also tested for the induction of the hypersensitive response (HR) in Nicotiana spp. All of the elicitin protein domains tested induced the HR, except for SOJX and SOJY. Overall, the results show that the P. sojae elicitin gene family is large and diverse, with varying patterns of expression and HR‐inducing activity.
Dutch library services to disadvantaged persons
Authors: WAGENAAR HELEN 
Published: March 2003

Hospital libraries in the Netherlands provide a variety of services. In this paper two well‐equipped hospital libraries, staffed by professionally qualified librarians, are described. Some hospital libraries rely on volunteers, supervised by professional librarians, while in others volunteers work completely on their own.Special services for elderly people are focused on persons who cannot visit the library by themselves. These services vary from visiting house‐bound people to placing a small library in residential homes. Of special interest is the library work for aphasics in the Netherlands.The Section of Library Work for the Elderly, Sick and Handicapped Persons, a section of the Dutch Centre for Public Libraries and Literature (NBLC) is described.