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Salomón R, Valbuena-Carabaña M, Teskey R, McGuire MA, Aubrey D, González-Doncel I, Gil L, Rodríguez-Calcerrada J. Seasonal and diel variation in xylem CO2 concentration and sap pH in sub-Mediterranean oak stems. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2016; 67:2817-2827. [PMID: 27012285 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erw121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Since a substantial portion of respired CO2 remains within the stem, diel and seasonal trends in stem CO2 concentration ([CO2]) are of major interest in plant respiration and carbon budget research. However, continuous long-term stem [CO2] studies are scarce, and generally absent in Mediterranean climates. In this study, stem [CO2] was monitored every 15min together with stem and air temperature, sap flow, and soil water storage during a growing season in 16 stems of Quercus pyrenaica to elucidate the main drivers of stem [CO2] at different temporal scales. Fluctuations in sap pH were also assessed during two growing seasons to evaluate potential errors in estimates of the concentration of CO2 dissolved in xylem sap ([CO2*]) calculated using Henry's law. Stem temperature was the best predictor of stem [CO2] and explained more than 90% and 50% of the variability in stem [CO2] at diel and seasonal scales, respectively. Under dry conditions, soil water storage was the main driver of stem [CO2]. Likewise, the first rains after summer drought caused intense stem [CO2] pulses, suggesting enhanced stem and root respiration and increased resistance to radial CO2 diffusion. Sap flow played a secondary role in controlling stem [CO2] variations. We observed night-time sap pH acidification and progressive seasonal alkalinization. Thus, if the annual mean value of sap pH (measured at midday) was assumed to be constant, night-time sap [CO2*] was substantially overestimated (40%), and spring and autumn sap [CO2*] were misestimated by 25%. This work highlights that diel and seasonal variations in temperature, tree water availability, and sap pH substantially affect xylem [CO2] and sap [CO2*].
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Fernández V, Guzmán-Delgado P, Graça J, Santos S, Gil L. Cuticle Structure in Relation to Chemical Composition: Re-assessing the Prevailing Model. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2016; 7:427. [PMID: 27066059 PMCID: PMC4814898 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2016.00427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The surface of most aerial plant organs is covered with a cuticle that provides protection against multiple stress factors including dehydration. Interest on the nature of this external layer dates back to the beginning of the 19th century and since then, several studies facilitated a better understanding of cuticular chemical composition and structure. The prevailing undertanding of the cuticle as a lipidic, hydrophobic layer which is independent from the epidermal cell wall underneath stems from the concept developed by Brongniart and von Mohl during the first half of the 19th century. Such early investigations on plant cuticles attempted to link chemical composition and structure with the existing technologies, and have not been directly challenged for decades. Beginning with a historical overview about the development of cuticular studies, this review is aimed at critically assessing the information available on cuticle chemical composition and structure, considering studies performed with cuticles and isolated cuticular chemical components. The concept of the cuticle as a lipid layer independent from the cell wall is subsequently challenged, based on the existing literature, and on new findings pointing toward the cell wall nature of this layer, also providing examples of different leaf cuticle structures. Finally, the need for a re-assessment of the chemical and structural nature of the plant cuticle is highlighted, considering its cell wall nature and variability among organs, species, developmental stages, and biotic and abiotic factors during plant growth.
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Prata-Ribeiro H, Bento A, Ponte A, Neves BC, Gil L. EV466Characterization of the refugee population in a psychiatry clinic in Lisbon. Eur Psychiatry 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.01.1451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe refugee population has been a growing concern to the developed countries in general and to Europe in particular. The recent mass migrations are changing the population that is getting to the psychiatric hospitals, not only culturally but also pathologically. The aim of this study is to characterize the refugee population that contacts with the clinic of transcultural psychiatry in Centro Hospitalar Psiquiátrico de Lisboa, understanding the most frequent pathologies and nationalities. The methods used consisted in analyzing the refugee population that attended a psychotherapeutic group and consultation in the Transcultural clinic of Centro Hospitalar Psiquiátrico de Lisboa during the past year. Analyzing the population, 66 refugees were in contact with the transcultural clinic, 44 of which were men, being the other 22 women, representing a total of 23 countries. The more frequent nationality was Iranian (20) and the most frequent diagnosis was “adjustment disorder and anxiety” (38). We can reach the conclusion that more refugee men contact with our psychiatric hospital than women, accounting for 66, 6% of the total; 30, 3% of the refugees were from Iran, followed by Pakistan with 10, 6%. The fact that the most frequent diagnosis is adjustment disorder and anxiety, accounting for 57, 6% of the sample, seems to point out the extreme stress refugees undergo.Disclosure of interestThe authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.
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Olaciregui M, Luño V, Martí JI, Aramayona J, Gil L. Freeze-dried stallion spermatozoa: evaluation of two chelating agents and comparative analysis of three sperm DNA damage assays. Andrologia 2016; 48:900-906. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
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Garcia-Del-Rey E, Otto R, Fernández-Palacios JM, Gil Muñoz P, Gil L. Effects of wildfire on endemic breeding birds in aPinus canariensisforest of Tenerife, Canary Islands. ECOSCIENCE 2015. [DOI: 10.2980/17-3-3321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Pereira N, Echeverría-Velasquez M, Nuñez-Gonzalez JR, Molano N, Atencio T, Amel A, Gil L, Álvarez de Mon M. [Biological effect of nutritional recovery on serum concentrations of inflammation cytokines in the malnourished child]. INVESTIGACION CLINICA 2015; 56:356-366. [PMID: 29938965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Children with severe malnutrition have a dysfunction of the immune response that can significantly increase morbidity and mortality from infections. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of nutritional recovery in serum measurements of inflammatory cytokines; such as interleukin 12 (IL-12), interleukin 17 (IL-17), interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). In a prospective and longitudinal study, 24 severe malnourished children aged between 1 and 2 years-old, who were part of a program of nutritional recovery, were selected based on clinical and anthropometric criteria. Serum measurements of cytokines were determined before and after dietary treatment, using the technique of sandwich Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay (ELISA). For comparisons, Student’s t test was used, considered p <0.05 as statistically significant. A difference was observed in the concentrations of IL-12, IL-17, IFN-γ and TNF-α before and after treatment (p <0.05), which suggests that malnutrition provokes an inflammatory state and two months of intensive nutritional support, not only promotes the clinical recovery of severe malnourished children, but also the recovery of the immune response with regard to the production of soluble mediators, such as cytokines.
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Styczynski J, Czyzewski K, Wysocki M, Gryniewicz-Kwiatkowska O, Kolodziejczyk-Gietka A, Salamonowicz M, Hutnik L, Zajac-Spychala O, Zaucha-Prazmo A, Chelmecka-Wiktorczyk L, Siewiera K, Fraczkiewicz J, Malas Z, Tomaszewska R, Irga-Jaworska N, Plonowski M, Ociepa T, Pierlejewski F, Gamrot Z, Urbanek-Dadela A, Gozdzik J, Stolpa W, Dembowska-Baginska B, Perek D, Matysiak M, Wachowiak J, Kowalczyk J, Balwierz W, Kalwak K, Chybicka A, Badowska W, Szczepanski T, Drozynska E, Krawczuk-Rybak M, Urasinski T, Mlynarski W, Woszczyk M, Karolczyk G, Sobol-Milejska G, Gil L. Increased risk of infections and infection-related mortality in children undergoing haematopoietic stem cell transplantation compared to conventional anticancer therapy: a multicentre nationwide study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2015; 22:179.e1-179.e10. [PMID: 26493843 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2015.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This nationwide multicentre study analysed the epidemiology of bacterial, viral and fungal infections in paediatric haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and paediatric haematology and oncology (PHO) patients over a period of 24 consecutive months, including incidence, hazard risk and outcome of infections as well as occurrence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. During this period, 308 HSCTs were performed and 1768 children were newly diagnosed for malignancy. Compared to PHO, the risk in HSCT patients was significantly higher for all infections (hazard ratio (HR) 2.7), bacterial (HR 1.4), fungal (HR 3.5) and viral (HR 15.7) infections. The risk was higher in allo- than auto-HSCT for bacterial (HR 1.4), fungal (HR 3.2) and viral (HR 17.7) infections. The incidence of resistant bacteria was higher in HSCT than in PHO patients for both G-negative (72.5% vs. 59.2%) and G-positive (41.4% vs. 20.5%) strains. Cumulative incidence of bacterial, fungal and viral infections in HSCT patients was 33.9, 22.8 and 38.3%, respectively. Cumulative incidence of viral infections in allo-HSCT was 28.0% for cytomegalovirus, 18.5% for BK virus, 15.5% for Epstein-Barr virus, 9.5% for adenovirus, 2.6% for varicella zoster virus, 0.9% for influenza, 0.9% for human herpesvirus 6 and 0.3% for hepatitis B virus. Survival rates from infections were lower in HSCT than in PHO patients in bacterial (96.0 vs. 98.2%), fungal (75.5 vs. 94.6%) and most viral infections. In conclusion, the risk of any infections and the occurrence of resistant bacterial strains in allo-HSCT patients were higher than in auto-HSCT and PHO patients, while the outcome of infections was better in the PHO setting.
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Perea R, Dirzo R, San Miguel A, Gil L. Post-dispersal seed recovery by animals: is it a plant- or an animal-driven process? OIKOS 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.02556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Perdiguero P, Venturas M, Cervera MT, Gil L, Collada C. Massive sequencing of Ulmus minor's transcriptome provides new molecular tools for a genus under the constant threat of Dutch elm disease. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2015; 6:541. [PMID: 26257751 PMCID: PMC4507047 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2015.00541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Elms, especially Ulmus minor and U. americana, are carrying out a hard battle against Dutch elm disease (DED). This vascular wilt disease, caused by Ophiostoma ulmi and O. novo-ulmi, appeared in the twentieth century and killed millions of elms across North America and Europe. Elm breeding and conservation programmes have identified a reduced number of DED tolerant genotypes. In this study, three U. minor genotypes with contrasted levels of tolerance to DED were exposed to several biotic and abiotic stresses in order to (i) obtain a de novo assembled transcriptome of U. minor using 454 pyrosequencing, (ii) perform a functional annotation of the assembled transcriptome, (iii) identify genes potentially involved in the molecular response to environmental stress, and (iv) develop gene-based markers to support breeding programmes. A total of 58,429 putative unigenes were identified after assembly and filtering of the transcriptome. 32,152 of these unigenes showed homology with proteins identified in the genome from the most common plant model species. Well-known family proteins and transcription factors involved in abiotic, biotic or both stresses were identified after functional annotation. A total of 30,693 polymorphisms were identified in 7,125 isotigs, a large number of them corresponding to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; 27,359). In a subset randomly selected for validation, 87% of the SNPs were confirmed. The material generated may be valuable for future Ulmus gene expression, population genomics and association genetics studies, especially taking into account the scarce molecular information available for this genus and the great impact that DED has on elm populations.
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Jerez-Ebensperger R, Gil L, Gonzales N, De Blas I. THE COMBINED USE OF HONEY, GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM L.) AND SKIMMED MILK AS AN EXTENDER FOR CHILLING SHEEP SEMEN. CRYO LETTERS 2015; 36:243-251. [PMID: 26575999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sugars are the energetic source for sperm to maintain the metabolic process, and the antibiotics slow down sperm degradation. OBJECTIVE To study the effects of rosemary honey as energy source and cryoprotectant in combination with garlic as a natural antibiotic on the quality of ram spermatozoa upon cooling. MATERIALS AND METHODS The ejaculates from three rams were evaluated at different times during cooling to determine its post-dilution quality. RESULTS Glycerol and dimethylformamide in conjunction with honey and garlic significantly improve the survival of spermatozoa. CONCLUSION The addition of honey and garlic reduces sperm deterioration when stored at 4 degree C.
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Rodríguez-Calcerrada J, López R, Salomón R, Gordaliza GG, Valbuena-Carabaña M, Oleksyn J, Gil L. Stem CO2 efflux in six co-occurring tree species: underlying factors and ecological implications. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2015; 38:1104-1115. [PMID: 25292455 DOI: 10.1111/pce.12463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Stem respiration plays a role in species coexistence and forest dynamics. Here we examined the intra- and inter-specific variability of stem CO2 efflux (E) in dominant and suppressed trees of six deciduous species in a mixed forest stand: Fagus sylvatica L., Quercus petraea [Matt.] Liebl, Quercus pyrenaica Willd., Prunus avium L., Sorbus aucuparia L. and Crataegus monogyna Jacq. We conducted measurements in late autumn. Within species, dominants had higher E per unit stem surface area (Es ) mainly because sapwood depth was higher than in suppressed trees. Across species, however, differences in Es corresponded with differences in the proportion of living parenchyma in sapwood and concentration of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC). Across species, Es was strongly and NSC marginally positively related with an index of drought tolerance, suggesting that slow growth of drought-tolerant trees is related to higher NSC concentration and Es . We conclude that, during the leafless period, E is indicative of maintenance respiration and is related with some ecological characteristics of the species, such as drought resistance; that sapwood depth is the main factor explaining variability in Es within species; and that the proportion of NSC in the sapwood is the main factor behind variability in Es among species.
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López R, Brossa R, Gil L, Pita P. Stem girdling evidences a trade-off between cambial activity and sprouting and dramatically reduces plant transpiration due to feedback inhibition of photosynthesis and hormone signaling. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2015; 6:285. [PMID: 25972884 PMCID: PMC4413673 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2015.00285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The photosynthesis source-sink relationship in young Pinus canariensis seedlings was modified by stem girdling to investigate sprouting and cambial activity, feedback inhibition of photosynthesis, and stem and root hydraulic capacity. Removal of bark tissue showed a trade-off between sprouting and diameter growth. Above the girdle, growth was accelerated but the number of sprouts was almost negligible, whereas below the girdle the response was reversed. Girdling resulted in a sharp decrease in whole plant transpiration and root hydraulic conductance. The reduction of leaf area after girdling was strengthened by the high levels of abscisic acid found in buds which pointed to stronger bud dormancy, preventing a new needle flush. Accumulation of sugars in leaves led to a coordinated reduction in net photosynthesis (AN) and stomatal conductance (gS) in the short term, but later (gS below 0.07 mol m(-2) s(-1)) AN decreased faster. The decrease in maximal efficiency of photosystem II (FV/FM) and the operating quantum efficiency of photosystem II (ΦPSII) in girdled plants could suggest photoprotection of leaves, as shown by the vigorous recovery of AN and ΦPSII after reconnection of the phloem. Stem girdling did not affect xylem embolism but increased stem hydraulic conductance above the girdle. This study shows that stem girdling affects not only the carbon balance, but also the water status of the plant.
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Diaz A, del Romero J, Rodriguez C, Alastrue I, Belda J, Bru FJ, Cámara MM, Junquera ML, Sanz I, Viloria LJ, Gil L, Martínez E, Gual F, Landa MC, Pueyo I, Ureña JM, Martínez B, Varela JA, Polo A, Azpiri MA, Diez M. Effects of region of birth, educational level and age on late presentation among men who have sex with men newly diagnosed with HIV in a network of STI/HIV counselling and testing clinics in Spain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 20. [PMID: 25884148 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2015.20.14.21088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
This paper analyses late presentation (LP) of HIV infection, and its determinants, among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Spain, newly diagnosed with HIV (2003-2011) in 15 sexually transmitted infection/HIV counselling and testing clinics. LP was defined as <350 CD4 cells/µL or AIDS. In total, 3,081 MSM were included (2,499 having CD4/AIDS); overall LP was 25.3%. LP was higher in men older than 34 years, those not previously HIV-tested (adjusted odds ratio (aOR):3.1; 95% confidence intervals (CI):2.3-4.2) , and those tested > 12 months before diagnosis (12-24 months (aOR:1.4; 95% CI:1.0-2.0); > 24 months (aOR:2.2; 95% CI:1.7-3.0)). LP was less likely in MSM reporting a known HIV-infected partner as infection source or symptoms compatible with acute retroviral syndrome. 'Region of birth' interacted with 'educational level' and 'steady partner as infection source': only African and Latin-American MSM with low educational level were more likely to present late; Latin-American men attributing their infection to steady partner, but no other MSM, had LP more frequently. In Spain, HIV testing among MSM should be promoted, especially those > 34 years old and migrants with low educational level. The current recommendation that MSM be tested at least once a year is appropriate.
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Monton A, Gil L, Malo C, Olaciregui M, Gonzalez N, de Blas I. Sage (Salvia officinalis) and fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) improve cryopreserved boar epididymal semen quality study. CRYO LETTERS 2015; 36:83-90. [PMID: 26017296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of fennel and sage extracts and the influence of the egg yolk source (fresh or pasteurized) on the success of freezing boar epididymal spermatozoa. In experiment 1, epididymal sperm was recovered by flushing and cryopreserved in a lactose-egg yolk solution supplemented with various concentrations (10, 5 and 2.5 g/L) of sage or fennel. Sperm quality was evaluated (motility, viability, HOST and acrosome integrity) at 0 h and 2 h after thawing. Fennel 10 g/L and sage 5 g/L and control (no extracts) were selected for experiment 2 which also compared fresh or pasteurized egg yolk in the freezing extender and measured DNA integrity of the frozen sperm. Results showed that the interaction between fennel and sage antioxidants with fresh egg yolk significantly improved post thaw sperm quality and protected boar epididymal spermatozoa from cryopreservation damage as a result of oxidative stress.
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Gil L, Lippi GL. Phase instability in semiconductor lasers. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2014; 113:213902. [PMID: 25479495 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.113.213902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
For many years, the apparent absence of a phase instability has characterized lasers as peculiar nonlinear oscillators. We show that this unusual feature is solely due to the approximations used in writing the standard models. A new, careful derivation of the fundamental equations, based on codimension 2 bifurcation theory, shows the possible existence of dynamical regimes displaying either a pure phase instability, or mixed phase-amplitude turbulence. A comparison to existing experimental results convincingly shows that the Benjamin-Feir instability, common to all nonlinear wave problems, is a fundamental, satisfactory interpretation for their deterministic multimode dynamics.
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Luño V, Gil L, Olaciregui M, Jerez RA, de Blas I, Hozbor F. Antioxidant effect of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) and mate tea (Ilex paraguensys) on quality, lipid peroxidation and DNA oxidation of cryopreserved boar epididymal spermatozoa. Andrologia 2014; 47:1004-11. [PMID: 25382606 DOI: 10.1111/and.12370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the protective ability of the addition of two antioxidant herb extracts, mate tea and lemon balm, on boar epididymal frozen-thawed spermatozoa quality. Testes from mature boars were collected at local slaughterhouse, and sperm samples from epididymis were recovered by flushing. Spermatozoa were cryopreserved in lactose-egg yolk buffer supplemented with various concentrations of lemon balm and mate tea (0, 2.5, 5 and 10 g l(-1) ) using the straw-freezing procedure. Motion parameters, acrosome and plasma membrane integrity, lipoperoxidation levels and DNA oxidative damage (8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine base lesion) were evaluated. There were no differences among experimental groups with regard to motility characteristics, viability, acrosome and plasma membrane integrity; however, the highest concentration of lemon balm produced significant (P < 0.05) improvement in curvilinear trajectory, straightness and amplitude of lateral head displacement after thawing. The supplementation of freezing extender with mate tea and lemon balm reduced sperm lipid membrane peroxidation, and only mate tea protected DNA against oxidative damage during cryopreservation at 120 min post-thawing (P < 0.05). Mate tea experimental extender at concentration of 10 g l(-1) showed the lowest percentage of sperm oxidised DNA and malondialdehyde generation; thus, mate tea is a potential candidate such as antioxidant compound on boar sperm cryopreservation medium.
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Gil L, Olaciregui M, Luño V, Malo C, González N, Martínez F. Current Status of Freeze-Drying Technology to Preserve Domestic Animals Sperm. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49 Suppl 4:72-81. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Guzmán P, Fernández V, Graça J, Cabral V, Kayali N, Khayet M, Gil L. Chemical and structural analysis of Eucalyptus globulus and E. camaldulensis leaf cuticles: a lipidized cell wall region. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2014; 5:481. [PMID: 25278953 PMCID: PMC4165216 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2014.00481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 08/30/2014] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The plant cuticle has traditionally been conceived as an independent hydrophobic layer that covers the external epidermal cell wall. Due to its complexity, the existing relationship between cuticle chemical composition and ultra-structure remains unclear to date. This study aimed to examine the link between chemical composition and structure of isolated, adaxial leaf cuticles of Eucalyptus camaldulensis and E. globulus by the gradual extraction and identification of lipid constituents (cutin and soluble lipids), coupled to spectroscopic and microscopic analyses. The soluble compounds and cutin monomers identified could not be assigned to a concrete internal cuticle ultra-structure. After cutin depolymerization, a cellulose network resembling the cell wall was observed, with different structural patterns in the regions ascribed to the cuticle proper and cuticular layer, respectively. Our results suggest that the current cuticle model should be revised, stressing the presence and major role of cell wall polysaccharides. It is concluded that the cuticle may be interpreted as a modified cell wall region which contains additional lipids. The major heterogeneity of the plant cuticle makes it difficult to establish a direct link between cuticle chemistry and structure with the existing methodologies.
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Fernández V, Sancho-Knapik D, Guzmán P, Peguero-Pina JJ, Gil L, Karabourniotis G, Khayet M, Fasseas C, Heredia-Guerrero JA, Heredia A, Gil-Pelegrín E. Wettability, polarity, and water absorption of holm oak leaves: effect of leaf side and age. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2014; 166:168-80. [PMID: 24913938 PMCID: PMC4149704 DOI: 10.1104/pp.114.242040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Plant trichomes play important protective functions and may have a major influence on leaf surface wettability. With the aim of gaining insight into trichome structure, composition, and function in relation to water-plant surface interactions, we analyzed the adaxial and abaxial leaf surface of holm oak (Quercus ilex) as a model. By measuring the leaf water potential 24 h after the deposition of water drops onto abaxial and adaxial surfaces, evidence for water penetration through the upper leaf side was gained in young and mature leaves. The structure and chemical composition of the abaxial (always present) and adaxial (occurring only in young leaves) trichomes were analyzed by various microscopic and analytical procedures. The adaxial surfaces were wettable and had a high degree of water drop adhesion in contrast to the highly unwettable and water-repellent abaxial holm oak leaf sides. The surface free energy and solubility parameter decreased with leaf age, with higher values determined for the adaxial sides. All holm oak leaf trichomes were covered with a cuticle. The abaxial trichomes were composed of 8% soluble waxes, 49% cutin, and 43% polysaccharides. For the adaxial side, it is concluded that trichomes and the scars after trichome shedding contribute to water uptake, while the abaxial leaf side is highly hydrophobic due to its high degree of pubescence and different trichome structure, composition, and density. Results are interpreted in terms of water-plant surface interactions, plant surface physical chemistry, and plant ecophysiology.
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Álvarez C, Gil L, González N, Olaciregui M, Luño V. Equine sperm post-thaw evaluation after the addition of different cryoprotectants added to INRA 96® extender. Cryobiology 2014; 69:144-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2014.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 06/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/25/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Garcia A, Gil L, Malo C, Martinez F, Kershaw-Young C, de Blas I. Effect of different disaccharides on the integrity and fertilising ability of freeze-dried boar spermatozoa: a preliminary study. CRYO LETTERS 2014; 35:277-285. [PMID: 25282494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Freeze-drying spermatozoa is a developing technique that facilitates semen storage and transport. However, freeze-dried sperm exhibits impaired DNA integrity, which is associated with reduced fertilizing ability. Boar spermatozoa were freeze-dried in three different freeze-drying EDTA buffers with trehalose (75mM) and lactose (75mM) (EDTA-TL), (2) with sucrose (75mM) and lactose (75mM) (EDTA-SL) or just lactose (150mM) (EDTA-LL) using two freeze-drying protocols. In experiment 1 a one-step protocol was used and in experiment 2 a two-steps protocol was used. Spermatozoa were stored in1.5 mL cryo-tubes and 1.5 mL glass ampules at both 16 degree C and 25 degree C for 1 month. Successfully freeze-dried spermatozoa were stained with acridine-orange to assess chromatin stability. Freeze-drying was most successful when the 2-step protocol was used (experiment 2). Chromatin stability was greater in samples stored in glass ampules compared to cryo tubes. Chromatin stability was also greater in samples freeze-dried in EDTA-LL compared to EDTA-SL or EDTA-TL buffers. Spermatozoa freeze-dried in EDTA-LL and stored for 14 and 28 days at either 16 degree C or 25 degree C were utilized for ICSI. Two pronuclear formation wasgreatest using spermatozoa stored at 25 degree C (69.23%) and for 28 days (50%). Although 16 degree C spermatozoa samples had better stable chromatin, 25 degree C spermatozoa samples offered better two pronuclear formation results. In conclusion, boar spermatozoa freeze-dried using media containing disaccharides exhibit high chromatin stability and are able to fertilise oocytes following ICSI. Disaccharides may therefore advance the development of freeze-drying techniques for spermatozoa enabling ease of sperm storage and transportation.
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Gale I, Gil L, Malo C, González N, Martínez F. Effect ofCamellia sinensissupplementation and increasing holding time on quality of cryopreserved boar semen. Andrologia 2014; 47:505-12. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
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Guzmán P, Fernández V, Khayet M, García ML, Fernández A, Gil L. Ultrastructure of plant leaf cuticles in relation to sample preparation as observed by transmission electron microscopy. ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:963921. [PMID: 24895682 PMCID: PMC4032664 DOI: 10.1155/2014/963921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The leaf cuticular ultrastructure of some plant species has been examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in only few studies. Attending to the different cuticle layers and inner structure, plant cuticles have been grouped into six general morphological types. With the aim of critically examining the effect of cuticle isolation and preparation for TEM analysis on cuticular ultrastructure, adaxial leaf cuticles of blue-gum eucalypt, grey poplar, and European pear were assessed, following a membrane science approach. The embedding and staining protocols affected the ultrastructure of the cuticles analysed. The solubility parameter, surface tension, and contact angles with water of pure Spurr's and LR-White resins were within a similar range. Differences were however estimated for resin : solvent mixtures, since Spurr's resin is combined with acetone and LR-White resin is mixed with ethanol. Given the composite hydrophilic and lipophilic nature of plant cuticles, the particular TEM tissue embedding and staining procedures employed may affect sample ultrastructure and the interpretation of the results in physicochemical and biological terms. It is concluded that tissue preparation procedures may be optimised to facilitate the observation of the micro- and nanostructure of cuticular layers and components with different degrees of polarity and hydrophobicity.
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Venturas M, Fernández V, Nadal P, Guzmán P, Lucena JJ, Gil L. Root iron uptake efficiency of Ulmus laevis and U. minor and their distribution in soils of the Iberian Peninsula. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2014; 5:104. [PMID: 24723927 PMCID: PMC3971191 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2014.00104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The calcifuge and calcicole character of wild plants has been related to nutrient availability shortages, including iron (Fe)-deficiency. Surprisingly, just a few studies examined the relation between root Fe uptake and plant distribution in different soil types. We assessed the root Fe acquisition efficiency of two Ulmus species with calcareous (Ulmus minor) and siliceous (U. laevis) soil distribution patterns in the Iberian Peninsula. Seedlings of both elm species were grown hydroponically with different Fe concentrations during 6 weeks. Plant physiological responses to Fe-limiting conditions were evaluated as were the ferric reductase activity and proton (H(+)) extrusion capacity of the roots. Iron deprived elm seedlings of both species were stunted and suffered severe Fe-chlorosis symptoms. After Fe re-supply leaf chlorophyll concentrations rose according to species-dependent patterns. While U. minor leaves and seedlings re-greened evenly, U. laevis did so along the nerves of new growing leaves. U. minor had a higher root ferric reductase activity and H(+)-extrusion capability than U. laevis and maintained a better nutrient balance when grown under Fe-limiting conditions. The two elm species were found to have different Fe acquisition efficiencies which may be related to their natural distribution in calcareous and siliceous soils of the Iberian Peninsula.
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Fuentes-Utrilla P, Valbuena-Carabaña M, Ennos R, Gil L. Population clustering and clonal structure evidence the relict state of Ulmus minor Mill. in the Balearic Islands. Heredity (Edinb) 2014; 113:21-31. [PMID: 24619184 DOI: 10.1038/hdy.2014.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2012] [Revised: 01/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Field elm (Ulmus minor) is a riparian tree that grows in rare, small populations scattered along temporary watercourses in the Balearic Islands, nowadays mostly covered with Mediterranean vegetation. Agriculture and farming on the fertile land along the periodically flooded plains have reduced the elm populations to sparse tree lines along the creek beds. The presence of field elm in this very anthropic landscape has led some authors to consider it as an introduced species in the Balearics. However, pollen data suggest these elms may be the remains of larger populations experiencing continuous population shrinkage during the Holocene, and hence be native to the isles. In this paper, we apply genetic markers to assess whether field elm is or is not indigenous to the Balearic Islands. We compare the genetic variation in nine nuclear microsatellites of six Balearic populations (three in each of the largest islands, Majorca and Minorca) with that of three natural Iberian populations located in two regions, one geologically (Baetic mountains, SE Iberia) and another historically (Catalonia, NE Iberia) related to the islands. Principal coordinates analysis and Bayesian clustering methods reveal a strong genetic differentiation of the Balearic populations from the Iberian ones, and even among islands, which support their native origin. Genotypic variation in the islands is very low and clonal reproduction is very high compared with the mainland, as it is frequently observed in populations of clonal species where sexual reproduction is limited. We discuss the practical implications of these findings for the conservation of elm genetic resources of these findings.
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