First record of a plasmodiophorid parasite in grapevine

In the context of an interdisciplinary project on grape pests and pathogens in Rheingau (Germany), the fine root system of grafted rootstocks has been screened for pathogenic fungi associated with root galls induced by grape phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifoliae (Fitch)). In several insect-induced galls, masses of resting spores of a plasmodiophorid could be seen. An additional selective screening revealed the occurrence of the plasmodiophorid parasite also in samples of gall-free rootlets: cortical cells of small necrotic areas were crowded with resting spores or other developmental stages of its life cycle. According to current taxonomic concepts, this plasmodiophorid could be identified as a member of the genus Sorosphaera Schroeter, resembling S. veronicae Schroeter. This is the first record of a plasmodiophorid parasite in grapevine

The evolution of spore size in Agarics: Do big mushrooms have big spores?

As a first attempt to investigate evolutionary patterns of spore size in Agarics, I tested whether this trait was correlated to the size of the fruit-body (basidiocarp). Based on phylogenetically independent contrasts, it was shown that big mushroom species had on average 9% longer, 9% wider and 33% more voluminous spores (all with P < 0.05, one-tailed tests) than small congeneric species (a three-fold difference in cap diameter was used to discriminate big and small mushrooms). It is argued that larger spore size does not consistently confer higher fitness in fungi, owing to aerodynamic constraints. Surprisingly, the cap–spore correlation was strongly lineage-specific. Thus, spore volume correlated significantly with cap diameter in five of 16 large genera (four positive and one negative correlation). Positive cap–spore correlations are interpreted in terms of developmental constraints, mediated by hyphal swelling during cap expansion. The possible mechanisms which can account for the breakdown of this constraint in the majority of genera investigated are discussed.FLWINinfo:eu-repo/semantics/publishe

Professional caregivers' perceptions of providing information to parents of children with cancer

Information has been described as a critical part of the care for parents of children with cancer, but not much is known about how caregivers makes decisions about informing parents. This study aims to illuminate professional caregivers' perceptions of providing information to parents of children with cancer. Twenty caregivers at a Swedish pediatric oncology ward participated in four focus group interviews. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and subjected to qualitative content analysis. Two themes were found: Matching the amount of information to the parents' needs concerned situations where the amount of information provided according to the caregivers' assessment is deemed too small, appropriate, or too large. Navigating through a vague structure dealt with a disrupted setting, unclear responsibilities within the team, difficult timing, unintelligible information, and underused tools for communication. Implications for intervention development are discussed