In vitro digestibility and amino acid composition of pearl millet (Pennisetum typhoides) and other cereals.

The purpose of this study was to compare in vitro digestibility, protein distribution patterns, and amino acid composition of pearl millet with other major cereals. Digestibility values for the pearl millet varieties were higher than that of sorghum and comparable to that of maize. In contrast to sorghum, digestibility of pearl millet and maize did not decrease significantly upon cooking. Protein distribution patterns of uncooked pearl millet and shifts in the different fractions as a result of cooking also resembled that of maize and not sorghum. The amino acid profile of pearl millet is more favorable than that of normal sorghum and normal maize and is comparable to the small grains, wheat, barley, and rice. On the basis of these findings, it appears that pearl millet is a nutritious and well-digested source of calories and proteins for humans.     

Comparative mapping of Andropogoneae: Saccharum L. (sugarcane) and its relation to sorghum and maize

Comparative genetic maps of Papuan Saccharum officinarum L. (2n = 80) and S. robustum (2n = 80) were constructed by using single-dose DNA markers (SDMs). SDM-framework maps of S. officinarum and S. robustum were compared with genetic maps of sorghum and maize by way of anchor restriction fragment length polymorphism probes. The resulting comparisons showed striking colinearity between the sorghum and Saccharum genomes. There were no differences in marker order between S. officinarum and sorghum. Furthermore, there were no alterations in SDM order between S. officinarum and S. robustum. The S. officinarum and S. robustum maps also were compared with the map of the polysomic octoploid S. spontaneum ‘SES 208’ (2n = 64, x = 8), thus permitting relations to homology groups (“chromosomes”) of S. spontaneum to be studied. Investigation of transmission genetics in S. officinarum and S. robustum confirmed preliminary results that showed incomplete polysomy in these species. Because of incomplete polysomy, multiple-dose markers could not be mapped for lack of a genetic model for their segregation. To coalesce S. officinarum and S. robustum linkage groups into homology groups (composed of homologous pairing partners), they were compared with sorghum (2n = 20), which functioned as a synthetic diploid. Groupings suggested by comparative mapping were found to be highly concordant with groupings based on highly polymorphic restriction fragment length polymorphism probes detecting multiple SDMs. The resulting comparative maps serve as bridges to allow information from one Andropogoneae to be used by another, for breeding, ecology, evolution, and molecular biology.     

In vitro biological activities of aqueous extracts of Tetrapleura tetraptera(Schumach. & Thonn.) taub. and Aframomum citratum(C. Pereira) K.Schum from three Agroecologic Zones in Cameroon

Objective: To investigate some phytochemical constituents and biological activities of twelve samples of Tetrapleura tetraptera(Schumach Thonn.) taub. and nine samples of Aframomum citratum(C. Pereira) K. Schum fruits collected in the bimodal forest zone(ZONE Ⅴ), the unimodal forest zone(ZONE Ⅳ) and the highlands zone(ZONE Ⅲ) in Cameroon. Methods: Fresh fruits extracts were obtained by aqueous infusion(100 ℃ during 15 min) and evaluated by spectrophotometric methods for total polyphenol(TPP), total flavonoids(TFLV)contents and antioxidant(DPPH, total antioxidant capacity by the phosphomolybdenum method, iron reducing power or ferric reducing antioxidant power and inhibition of beta carotene discoloration assays) and anti-inflammatory(inhibitions of protein denaturation and 5-LOX represented by INH.PROT and INH.5-LOX respectively) properties. Principal component analysis was performed. Results: For both species, fruits from ZONE Ⅴ have the highest TPP, TFLV levels and biological activities. TPP and TFLV content of Aframomum citratum and Tetrapleura tetraptera fruits are positively and significantly(P0.05) correlated. The biological activities of all extracts(0.25, 2.5, 25, 250 mg/mL) were dosedependent and the extracts have shown strong antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities, but less than references(ascorbic acid,diclofenac, quercetin, and butylated hydroxytoluene). There was a positive correlation between TPP, TFLV and total antioxidant capacity, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and inhibition of beta carotene discoloration assays, and inverse correlations were observed with the IC50(g/mL) of DPPH, INH.5-LOX and INH.PROT assays for both species. Conclusions: The fruits exhibit variabilities and those from ZONE Ⅴ for both species are economically and healthcare challenging for herbalists, pharmaceutical firms, scientists and consumers. Indeed, most important extraction yield of bioactive compounds correlated with significant biological activities and the use of less material compared with an implementation in other Agro-ecologic Zones with the same results are noted.     

Cleavage in Ixodes ricinus (L.) (Acari: Ixodidae)

The author analyzed the first 5 days of embryonic development of Ixodes ricinus. The cleavage takes 4 days, being terminated on the 5th day of embryogenesis, when the cells start to invaginate and differentiate. The karyomeres play a role in the initial mitotic divisions. Cellularization occurs on the 2nd and 3rd day of embryogenesis. The blastoderm cells maintain their potential for division, and as from the 5th day cellular differentiation starts.     

Immunopathogenic competences of Leishmania (V.) braziliensis and L. (L.) amazonensis in American cutaneous leishmaniasis

The immunopathogenic competences of Leishmania (V.) braziliensis and L. (L.) amazonensis were reviewed in the light of more recent features found in the clinical and immunopathological spectrum of American cutaneous leishmaniasis. It was shown a dichotomy in the interaction between these Leishmania species and human T-cell immune response; while L. (V.) braziliensis shows a clear tendency to lead infection from the localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (LCL), a moderate T-cell hypersensitivity form at the centre of the spectrum, toward to the mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL) at the T-cell hypersensitivity pole and with a prominent Th1-type immune response, L. (L.) amazonensis shows an opposite tendency, leading infection to the anergic diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis (ADCL) at the T-cell hyposensitivity pole and with a marked Th2-type immune response. Between the central LCL and the two polar MCL and ADCL, the infection can present an intermediary form known as borderline disseminated cutaneous leishmaniasis, characterized by an incomplete inhibition of T-cell hypersensitivity but with a evident supremacy of Th1 over Th2 immune response (Th1 ≥ Th2). These are probably the main immunopathogenic competences of L. (V.) braziliensis and L. (L.) amazonensis regarding the immune response dichotomy that modulates human infection outcome by these Leishmania parasites.     

Fuhrmanolepis dubinskyi n. sp. (Cestoda: Dilepididae) from woodcock Scolopax rusticola (L.) (Aves, Charadriiformes) in Slovakia

Summary  Dilepidid cestode Fuhrmanolepis dubinskyi n. sp. from woodcock, Scolopax rusticola L. in Slovakia is described on the basis of light microscope observations. The new taxon is characterised by medium sized strobila, single crown of ten, 47–53 μm long “diorchid” (wrench-shaped) rostellar hooks. Genital pores alternate irregularly. Number of testes is 20–30 and measurements of cirrus-sac and evaginated cirrus reach 176 − 217 × 18 − 31 and 38 − 56 × 16 − 21 μm, respectively. The uterus is reticular and eggs possess spiny embryophore. F. dubinskyi is differentiated from closely related congeneric species and some other morphologically similar dilepidids. Dedicated to Prof. Pavol Dubinsky who was awarded the state decoration of Slovak Republic-2nd Class Pribina Cross     

Experimental cutaneous leishmaniasis. III. Histopathological aspects of the developmental behavior of the cutaneous lesion induced in Cebus apella (Primates: Cebidae) by Leishmania (Viannia) lainsoni, L. (V.) braziliensis and L. (Leishmania) amazonensis

We have studied the histopathological aspects related to the evolution of cutaneous lesions experimentally produced in the monkey Cebus apella (Primates: Cebidae) by Leishmania (V.) lainsoni, L. (V.) braziliensis and L. (L.) amazonensis. Microscopical examination of a series of biopsies obtained from these animals showed the kinetics of the cutaneous lesions regarding three species of Leishmania inoculated, as follows: 1) an initial non-specific chronic inflammatory infiltrate; 2) macrophagic nodules; 3) necrosis of parasitized phagocytic cells; 4) epitheliode granuloma; 5) absorption of the necrotic area (sometimes forming "foreign-body granuloma"); 6) a non-specific residual inflammatory infiltration; and 7) cicatrization. These pathological processes are, of course, responsible for both development and resolution of the leishmaniotic lesion. We also discuss some immunopathological mechanisms probably related with the sequential events, and that could be also responsible for the different clinical aspects found in man.     

The neuroendocrine system of Hyalophora cecropia (L.) (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae): I. The anatomy and histology of the ecdysial glands

The ecdysial (prothoracic) glands of the silkmoth, Hyalophora cecropia, were examined anatomically and histologically during the fourth and fifth larval instars and in the pupal and adult stages. Female gland cells were larger and, unlike those of males, usually contained prominent nucleoli. All gland cells were characterized by a peripheral “striated border” that appeared to be an area concerned with the release of the secretory product. Complete degeneration of the glands occurred shortly after adult emergence. The innervation of the glands is described, and the possible significance of this innervation is discussed. Cycles of activity, characterized by nuclear alterations that preceded cytoplasmic vacuolization, were correlated with the initiation of molting activity in each stage. In addition, secretory activity appeared to occur at a low level in young pupae and at higher levels in older pupae. The histological variations occurring in the gland cells during any single molting cycle were similar to, but not exactly duplicated by, those occurring in any other cycle. These latter findings suggested an alteration in the glandular control system during the several cycles examined.     

The diel oviposition periodicity of Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) in the laboratory: substrate-movement effect

The diel oviposition periodicity of females of the LSHTM strain of Aedes aegypti was studied, under laboratory conditions, using one female/cage and monitoring, by changing the substrate, every 1, 2, 4 or 24 h. The individual females monitored at hourly intervals showed peak oviposition at 18.00-19.00 hours (a period when 44% of the eggs observed were laid) whereas the individuals monitored at two-hourly intervals showed peak oviposition between 16.00-18.00 hours (38% of eggs). The four-hourly monitoring gave a result that was similar to that of the two-hourly monitoring, with 79% of eggs laid between 14.00-18.00 hours, indicating an earlier peak in oviposition than seen with the one-hourly monitoring. Care should therefore be taken when conducting similar studies in the laboratory and when comparing or considering data derived from experiments in which different monitoring intervals have been employed.     

Leishmania (V.) braziliensis and L. (L.) amazonensis promote differential expression of dendritic cells and cellular immune response in murine model

The expression of Langerhans cell (LC) and dermal dendritic cell (dDC) as well as T CD4(+) and CD8(+) immune responses was evaluated in the skin of BALB/c mice experimentally infected by L. (L.) amazonensis (La) and L. (V.) braziliensis (Lb). At 4th and 8th weeks post infection (PI), skin biopsies were collected to determine the parasite load and CD207(+), CD11c(+), CD4(+), CD8(+), iNOS(+) cellular densities. Cytokine (IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-10) profiles were also analysed in draining lymph node. At 4th week, the densities of CD207(+) and CD11c(+) were higher in the La infection, while in the Lb infection, these markers revealed a significant increase at 8th week. At 4th week, CD4(+) and CD8(+) were higher in the La infection, but at 8th week, there was a substantial increase in both markers in the Lb infection. iNOS(+) was higher in the Lb infection at 4th and 8th weeks. In contrast, the parasite load was higher in the La infection at 4th and 8th weeks. The concentration of IFN-γ was higher in the Lb infection, but IL-4 and IL-10 were higher in the La infection at 4th and 8th weeks. These results confirm the role of the Leishmania species in the BALB/c mice disease characterized by differences in the expression of dendritic cells and cellular immune response.     

The diel oviposition periodicity of Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) in the laboratory: density disturbance

The diel oviposition periodicities of the LSHTM and Trinidad strains of Aedes aegypti were studied under laboratory conditions, using different mosquito densities in the cages and monitoring at 2-h intervals. With both strains, the peak in oviposition occurred earlier in the day when there was only one female in a test cage (16.00-18.00 hours) than when 25 or 500 females were held in a cage (18.00-20.00 hours). It therefore appears that the numbers of females in the cages can affect the diel oviposition periodicity of Ae. aegypti in the laboratory and that, therefore, caution is necessary when using and comparing data from related laboratory studies in which the ovipositing mosquitoes have been held at various densities.     

Comparison of cutaneous leishmaniasis due to Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis and L. (V.) guyanensis in Brazil: clinical findings and diagnostic approach.

We compared the clinical findings and diagnostic methods for 66 patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis in the state of Bahia, Brazil, who were infected by Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis (group A), with those for 68 patients in the state of Amazonas, Brazil, who were mainly infected by Leishmania (Viannia) guyanensis (group B). Differences were observed with regard to number, size, and location of skin lesions and to the pattern of lymphatic involvement. Patients in group B had smaller and more numerous lesions, which were frequently located above the waist, versus the larger but less numerous lesions among patients in group A, which were usually located on the lower limbs. Lymphatic involvement was present in 55 (83.3%) of the 66 patients in group A and in 42 (61.8%) of the 68 patients in group B (P=0.005). The positivity rates of imprints and skin culture procedures were higher in group B. Sensitivity of in vitro culture of skin aspirates was 47.0% and 91.2% for groups A and B, respectively (P<.001). Although hamster inoculation showed similar results in both groups, the interval before development of disease was shorter in group B. Our data provide substantial evidence that indicate that the disease caused by these species differs with regard to clinical presentation and diagnostic approach.     

Mosquito larvicidal and ovicidal properties of Eclipta alba (L.) Hassk (Asteraceae) against chikungunya vector, Aedes aegypti (Linn.) (Diptera: Culicidae)

ObjectiveThe present study deals with the investigation of larvicidal and ovicidal activities of benzene, hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol and chloroform leaf extract of Eclipta alba (E. alba) against dengue vector, Aedes aegypti (Ae. Aegypti).MethodsTwenty five early III instar larvae of Ae. aegypti was exposed to various concentrations (50–300 ppm) and was assayed in the laboratory by using the protocol of WHO 2005; the 24 h LC₅₀ values of the E. alba leaf extract was determined by Probit analysis. For ovicidal activity, slightly modified method of Su and Mulla was performed. The ovicidal activity was determined against Ae. aegypti to various concentrations ranging from 100–350 ppm under the laboratory conditions. The egg hatch rates were assessed 48 h post treatment.ResultsThe LC₅₀ values of benzene, hexane, ethyl acetate, methanol and chloroform extract of E. alba against early third instar larvae of Ae. aegypti were 151.38, 165.10, 154.88, 127.64 and 146.28 ppm, respectively. Maximum larvicidal activity was observed in the methanol extract followed by chloroform, benzene, ethyl acetate and hexane extract. No mortality was observed in control. Among five solvent tested the methanol extract was found to be most effective for ovicidal activity against Ae. aegypti. The methanol extracts exerted 100% mortality (zero hatchability) at 300 ppm.ConclusionsFrom the results it can be concluded the crude extract of E. alba was an excellent potential for controlling Ae. aegypti mosquito.     

The interrelationship of cortisol, gill (Na + K) ATPase, and homeostasis during the Parr-Smolt transformation of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.)

Serum cortisol concentrations were measured in juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) undergoing the parr-smolt transformation in fresh water, at either 1 year (S1 population) or 2 years (S2 population) after hatching. Serum cortisol levels were generally low (less than 10 ng ml-1), but during smoltification became significantly elevated in both populations. In addition, the S2 population showed a small cortisol peak in the autumn prior to smoltification. Simultaneous measurement of gill (Na + K) ATPase activity and serum cortisol concentrations in S2 salmon juveniles revealed that both features rose during smoltification in fresh water. The rise in gill (Na + K) ATPase activity was independent of cortisol levels, and preceded the rise in cortisol titer by approximately 1 month. After seawater transfer, gill enzyme levels remained high while cortisol titers fell sharply. Serum cortisol levels, but not gill (Na + K) ATPase activities, were progressively reduced by acclimation of smolts to increasing salinities. Linear regression studies indicated that, at any one level of gill (Na + K) ATPase, cortisol titer increased with increasing surface area: volume ratio. Extracellular fluid volume (sodium space) was found to decline with increasing gill (Na + K) ATPase activity, and to increase with serum cortisol titers. These results indicate that high serum cortisol levels represent a secondary response caused by the development of hypoosmoregulatory ability while still resident in fresh water. Cortisol does not appear to directly stimulate gill (Na + K) ATPase activity in Atlantic salmon smolts.