Homeobox gene Prx3 expression in rodent brain and extraneural tissues.

Different cDNA clones encoding a rat homeobox gene and the mouse homologue OG-12 were cloned from adult rat brain and mouse embryo mRNA, respectively. The predicted amino acid sequences of the proteins belong to the paired-related subfamily of homeodomain proteins (Prx homeodomains). Hence, the gene was named Prx3 and the mouse and rat genes are indicated as mPrx3 and rPrx3, respectively.

Rhodoquinone is synthesized de novo by Fasciola hepatica.

Most adult parasitic helminths have an anaerobic energy metabolism in which fumarate is reduced to succinate by fumarate reductase. Rhodoquinone (RQ) is an essential component of the electron transport associated with this fumarate reduction, whereas ubiquinone (UQ) is used in the aerobic energy metabolism of parasites. Not known yet, however, is the RQ and UQ composition during the entire life cycle nor the origin of RQ in parasitic helminths.

Influence of the size and source of the inoculum on biodegradation curves in closed-bottle tests.

Test variables influencing the results of the closed-bottle test include size and source of the inoculum. The inoculum originates from activated sludge plants maintained at various sludge retention times. The lag period prior to biodegradation, which is influenced primarily by acclimation, decreased with increasing numbers of competent microorganisms.