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Simple Summary: Bone deformities in the axial skeleton represent a frequent bone pathology in farmed salmonids, affecting the quality of life and even increasing mortality. Bone deformation can affect the formation, repair, and regeneration of inorganic-bone components and is associated with diet, culture conditions, and genetics. If diet and culture conditions are factors in the development of bone deformity, wild fish lack them and present fewer deformations than farmed fish. Hence, we studied mandibular bone microstructure using variable pressure scanning electron microscope (VP-SEM) coupled to EDS detector. Two groups of smolt rainbow trout were analyzed: Group 1, farmed fish with a control diet, and Group 2, wild fish without a control diet. We observed that serum protein levels remained within normal ranges. However, the calcium and phosphorus ratio was not the same in blood as in bone; phosphorus deficiency was more critical because it forms other structural molecules such as nucleic acid, phosphoproteins, phospholipids, and high-energy phosphates. Consequently, the microstructure in wild fish showed a more significant number of pores and microfractures per area, which was detrimental to the biomechanical properties of the bone. Farmed salmonids show alterations in bone structure that result in skeletal deformities during formation, repair, and regeneration processes, with loss of mineralization at the level of the axial skeleton, mainly the head and spine, affecting their quality of life and even causing death. Despite improving factors, such as farming conditions, diets, and genetics, bone alterations appear more frequently in farmed fish than in wild fish. Thus, we used SEM-EDX, and TGA-DSC to study bone mineralization in farmed and wild rainbow trouts. As expected, we found significant differences in the nutritional parameters of farmed and wild fish (p < 0.05). Microstructural analyses indicated that farmed fish have a more robust mineral structure (p < 0.05), confirming the differences in mineralization and microstructure between both groups. However, the mechanisms regulating absorption and distribution in the organism and their effect on bone mineralization remain to be known. In our study, the combined use of techniques such as SEM-EDX and TGA-DSC allows a clearer assessment and detailed characterization beneficial to understanding the relationship between diet control and bone microstructure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In salmon farming systems, X-ray images are used to evaluate the spine and fins, but these do not allow quantifying the minerals that make up the bone, for different techniques that are destructive are used. Variable Pressure Scanning Electron Microscopy (VP SEM) coupled to an Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy detector (EDX), allows us to analyze the microstructure and at the same time determine chemical elements, percentages, and distribution present at specific points in a sample. Five control and five jaw deformity trout, from freshwater and in the smolt stage were used. The structure and mineralization of the bone were analyzed, an average six quantification points were chosen per region of interest (ROI) and then they were analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (VP SEM-EDX). The data obtained have shown the average mass percentage of calcium in trout joint bone was 8.07 % and 14.48 % in jaw deformity and control trout, respectively; and the average mass percentage of phosphorus is 4.07 % and 7.60 %, in jaw deformity and control trout, respectively. Other elements present in the sample were also identified, such as magnesium, sodium, carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, sulphur, fluorine, zinc, aluminium, and iron, with special interest the increase of carbon in the analyzed samples with mandibular deformity and the presence of aluminum in all samples. The VP SEM-EDX Technique allows direct evaluation, without destruction of the sample and with minimal sample preparation. In bone, the most frequent application of SEM-EDX is the measurement of the content of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) and the relationship that exists between these elements, calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P), in the sample. At the same time, the technique allows us to detect other microelements from water or food that can eventually cause alterations in fish, confirming the hypothesis that elemental microanalysis is useful for salmon farming [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The placement of a polymeric electrospun scaffold is among the most promising strategies to improve nerve regeneration after critical neurotmesis. It is of great interest to investigate the effect of these structures on Schwann cells (SCs), as these cells lead nerve regeneration and functional recovery. The aim of this study was to assess SC viability and morphology when cultured on polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) electrospun scaffolds with varied microfiber thicknesses and pore sizes. Six electrospun scaffolds were obtained using different PHB solutions and electrospinning parameters. All the scaffolds were morphologically characterized in terms of fiber thickness, pore size, and overall appearance by analyzing their SEM images. SCs seeded onto the scaffolds were analyzed in terms of viability and morphology throughout the culture period through MTT assay and SEM imaging. The SCs were cultured on three scaffolds with homogeneous smooth fibers (fiber thicknesses: 2.4 μm, 3.1 μm, and 4.3 μm; pore sizes: 16.7 μm, 22.4 μm, and 27.8 μm). SC infiltration and adhesion resulted in the formation of a three-dimensional network composed of intertwined fibers and cells. The SCs attached to the scaffolds maintained their characteristic shape and size throughout the culture period. Bigger pores and thicker fibers resulted in higher SC viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leukemia invades the bone marrow progressively and, through unknown mechanisms, outcompetes healthy hematopoiesis. Protein arginine methyltransferases 1 (PRMT1) are found in prokaryotes and eukaryotes cells. They are necessary for a number of biological processes and have been linked to several human diseases, including cancer. Small compounds that target PRMT1 have a significant impact on both functional research and clinical disease treatment. In fact, numerous PRMT1 inhibitors targeting the S-adenosyl-L-methionine binding region have been studied. Through topographical descriptors, quantitative structure-activity relationships (QSAR) were developed in order to identify the most effective PRMT1 inhibitors among 17 compounds. The model built using linear discriminant analysis allows us to accurately classify over 90% of the investigated active substances. Antileukemic activity is predicted using a multilinear regression analysis, and it can account for more than 56% of the variation. Both analyses are validated using an internal "leave some out" test. The developed model could be utilized in future preclinical experiments with novel drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural ecosystems provide services to agriculture such as pest control, soil nutrients, and key microbial components. These services and others in turn provide essential elements that fuel biomass productivity. Responsible agricultural management and conservation of natural habitats can enhance these ecosystem services. Vineyards are currently driving land-use changes in many Mediterranean ecosystems. These land-use changes could have important effects on the supporting ecosystems services related to the soil properties and the microbial communities associated with forests and vineyard soils. Here, we explore soil bacterial and fungal communities present in sclerophyllous forests and organic vineyards from three different wine growing areas in central Chile. We employed terminal restriction fragment length polymorphisms (T- RFLP) to describe the soil microbial communities inhabiting native forests and vineyards in central Chile. We found that the bacterial community changed between the sampled growing areas; however, the fungal community did not differ. At the local scale, our findings show that fungal communities differed between habitats because fungi species might be more sensitive to land-use change compared to bacterial species, as bacterial communities did not change between forests and vineyards. We discuss these findings based on the sensitivity of microbial communities to soil properties and land-use change. Finally, we focus our conclusions on the importance of naturally derived ecosystem services to vineyards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is associated with several acute and chronic disorders, including hematological malignancies such as acute myeloid leukemia, the most prevalent acute leukemia in adults. Xenobiotics are usually harmless compounds that may be detrimental, such as pharmaceuticals, environmental pollutants, cosmetics, and even food additives. The storage of xenobiotics can serve as a defense mechanism or a means of bioaccumulation, leading to adverse effects. During the absorption, metabolism, and cellular excretion of xenobiotics, three steps may be distinguished: (i) inflow by transporter enzymes, (ii) phases I and II, and (iii) phase III. Phase I enzymes, such as those in the cytochrome P450 superfamily, catalyze the conversion of xenobiotics into more polar compounds, contributing to an elevated acute myeloid leukemia risk. Furthermore, genetic polymorphism influences the variability and susceptibility of related myeloid neoplasms, infant leukemias associated with mixed-lineage leukemia (MLL) gene rearrangements, and a subset of de novo acute myeloid leukemia. Recent research has shown a sustained interest in determining the regulators of cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily E, member 1 (CYP2E1) expression and activity as an emerging field that requires further investigation in acute myeloid leukemia evolution. Therefore, this review suggests that CYP2E1 and its mutations can be a therapeutic or diagnostic target in acute myeloid leukemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Perumytilus purpuratus is a mussel species that is broadly distributed along the latitudinal gradient from the Southern Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. Along its distribution, P. purpuratus has been historically considered as one species. However, in the last decade, evidence has supported the hypothesis of two geographically divergent lineages. Within this context, we explore the evolutionary history of this inter-oceanic mussel, linking both sperm acrosome variability and molecular analyses of males at the geographic macroscale. In general, our results were in agreement with the genetic divergence that was previously reported, and showing two north and south lineage. Furthermore, our comprehensive sampling effort enabled us to precisely determine both the latitudinal positions of morpho-genetic break, which was identified at 37° S on the Pacific coast, and a probable hybridization zone at 38° S. In addition, we found new southern sperm variants, longer than previously reported. Overall, our results support the hypothesis of historical events and postglacial recolonization as causal phenomena for the observed divergences. Finally, we consider that, despite uncertainties in the taxonomy of P. purpuratus, the morpho-genetic divergence between the north and south P. purpuratus lineages indicates that they do not constitute the same Evolutionary Significant Unit and, therefore, they should be considered as separate entities. In recent years, advances in analyses of the sperm morphology and genetics of Perumytilus purpuratus have allowed to two evolutionary scenarios for this mussel to be suggested: (1) the scenario of cryptic species and (2) the scenario of incipient or in progress speciation. For a better understanding of the evolutionary history of P. purpuratus, we performed extensive sampling along a latitudinal gradient of ca. 7180 km of coastline—from the Southern Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean—and we delved deeper into the sperm morphology of P. purpuratus, exploring its association with the phylogeny and population genetics to determine whether the variability in sperm traits between the northern and southern regions was a signal of cryptic or incipient species. Overall, our results showed that sperm sizes were strongly correlated with the genetic structure in males of P. purpuratus. We identified at 37° S on the Pacific coast a coincident break of both sperm size and genetic disruption that can be explained by historical events and postglacial recolonization as causal phenomena for the observed divergences. Furthermore, evidence of genetic admixture between lineages was found at 38° S, suggesting the presence of an introgressive hybridization zone and incomplete reproductive isolation in an in fraganti or incipient speciation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The elaboration of biocompatible nerve guide conduits (NGCs) has been studied in recent years as a treatment for total nerve rupture lesions (axonotmesis). Different natural polymers have been used in these studies, including cellulose associated with soy protein. The purpose of this report was to describe manufacturing NGCs suitable for nerve regeneration using the method of dip coating and evaporation of solvent with cellulose acetate (CA) functionalized with soy protein acid hydrolysate (SPAH). Methods: The manufacturing method and bacterial control precautions for the CA/SPAH NGCs were described. The structure of the NGCs was analyzed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM); porosity was analyzed with a degassing method using a porosimeter. Schwann cell (SCL 4.1/F7) biocompatibility of cell-seeded nerve guide conduits was evaluated with the MTT assay. Results: The method employed allowed an easy elaboration and customization of NGCs, free of bacteria, with pores in the internal surface, and the uniform wall thickness allowed manipulation, which showed flexibility; additionally, the sample was suturable. The NGCs showed initial biocompatibility with Schwann cells, revealing cells adhered to the NGC structure after 5 days. Conclusions: The fabricated CA/SPAH NGCs showed adequate features to be used for peripheral nerve regeneration studies. Future reports are necessary to discuss the ideal concentration of CA and SPAH and the mechanical and physicochemical properties of this biomaterial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol is believed to harm acinar cells, pancreatic ductal epithelium, and pancreatic stellate cells. After giving ethanol and/or β-carotene to C57BL/6 mice, our goal was to evaluate their biochemistry, histology, and morpho-quantitative features. There were six groups of C57BL/6 mice: 1. Group C (control), 2. Group LA (low-dose alcohol), 3. Group MA (moderate-dose alcohol), 4. Group B (β-carotene), 5. Group LA + B (low-dose alcohol combined with β-carotene), and 6. Group MA + B (moderate-dose alcohol combined with β-carotene). After the animals were euthanized on day 28, each specimen's pancreatic tissue was taken. Lipase, uric acid, and amylase were assessed using biochemical assessment. Furthermore, the examination of the pancreatic structure was conducted using Ammann's fibrosis scoring system. Finally, the morpho-quantitative characteristics of the pancreatic islets and acinar cells were determined. In the serum of the MA + B group, there were higher amounts of total amylase (825.953 ± 193.412 U/L) and lower amounts of lipase (47.139 ± 6.099 U/L) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, Ammann's fibrosis punctuation in the pancreas revealed significant variations between the groups (p < 0.001). Finally, the stereological analysis of pancreatic islets showed that the groups were different (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that antioxidant treatments might help decrease the negative effects of ethanol exposure in animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new paradigm in Forensic Sciences initiated by the entry of genetics (the current standard of legal evidence) and accentuated by recognized wrongful convictions derived from experts today in the eye of criticism, has highlighted the potential for bias and error in forensic disciplines when they depend on human interpretation and subjectivity, which has not been avoided by Forensic Odontology (FO). However, a subjective judgment is not necessarily wrong, so the refinement of processes, the development of standards, and robust research can contribute to the validity of interpretation to increase objectivity. Latin America (LATAM) has its own realities and needs, which have conditioned the priorities and objectives of FO research. A scoping review is presented to systematically map the investigation of LATAM researchers and identify the objective or subjective nature of their assessments. LATAM shows interesting productivity and intentions to adhere to international standards, with Brazil leading this research significantly, followed by Chile and Colombia, among others. However, there is a disproportionate approach in certain lines of research (dental age estimation), and needs to address other quantitative studies, and to improve the visibility of the LATAM FO research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of hematological counts for the prevention, diagnosis and follow-up of hematological diseases has increased. Indeed, the correct operation of a clinical laboratory is essential to producing comparable results. However, there is a paucity of validation and reproducibility studies among the different existing methods for clinical analysis. Therefore, our aim was to assess the commutability of the results provided by analyzers with different measuring systems. Sixty venous blood samples were obtained from patients, without discriminating for age or sex. Then, an automated hematological analysis was performed using the Cell-Dyn Ruby and HumaCount 5L instruments. The variables measured were: RBC, Hb, HCT, MCV, MCH and MCHC. The data were compared by a one-way ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Statistical significance was fixed at p < 0.05. There were no statistically significant differences for RBC, HCT, MCH or MCHC. In addition, with the exception of MCHC, all the analytes showed a good correlation coefficient between the two instruments. There is a variety of automated systems for the clinical laboratory and it is essential for the clinician to know the different methodologies used in hematological analyzers as well as their sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, our results are useful for demonstrating the importance of practical knowledge of the analyzers mentioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In temperate rainforest soils of southern Chile (38 °S), there are high rates of soil organic carbon (SOC) mineralization under oxygen (O2) limitation. We study the combined effects of Fenton reactions and the activity of two enzymes manganese peroxidase (MnP) and lignin peroxidase (LiP), which was hypothesised potentiate SOC mineralization under anoxic conditions leading to carbon dioxide (CO2) release. Both mechanisms produce free radicals when competing for SOC oxidation in the absence of microorganisms. We quantify the CO2 release by induced Fenton reactions in combination with MnP and LiP under aerobic and anaerobic conditions (20 °C, 36 h) in temperate rainforest soils. CO2 levels released by Fenton reactions and enzyme activity were eight times higher than those released by Fenton reaction and peroxidase enzymes in individual treatment. Approximately 31% of the CO2 released under aerobic soil incubation was found to be abiotic (sterilized), while 69% was biotic (non-sterilized soils), and respective values of 17% and 83% were recorded under anaerobic conditions. The relative fluorescence intensity clearly shows ·OH radicals production from Fenton reactions. In conclusion, levels of MnP and LiP coupled with Fenton reactions strongly increase SOC mineralization under long periods of O2 limitation in temperate rainforest soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) describes a spectrum of liver abnormalities, from benign steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Because of their antioxidant capabilities, CeNPs have sparked a lot of interest in biological applications. This review evaluated the effectiveness of CeNPs in NAFLD evolution through in vivo and in vitro studies. Databases such as MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science were looked for studies published between 2012 and June 2023. Quality was evaluated using PRISMA guidelines. We looked at a total of nine primary studies in English carried out using healthy participants or HepG2 or LX2 cells. Quantitative data such as blood chemical markers, lipid peroxidation, and oxidative status were obtained from the studies. Our findings indicate that NPs are a possible option to make medications safer and more effective. In fact, CeNPs have been demonstrated to decrease total saturated fatty acids and foam cell production (steatosis), reactive oxygen species production and TNF-α (necrosis), and vacuolization in hepatic tissue when used to treat NAFLD. Thus, CeNP treatment may be considered promising for liver illnesses. However, limitations such as the variation in durations between studies and the utilization of diverse models to elucidate the etiology of NAFLD must be considered. Future studies must include standardized NAFLD models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incorporating the assessment of ecosystem services into land management decisions is increasingly recognized as an opportunity to support sustainable development. This, however, can be particularly challenging within the productive sector, a highly technical system often driven by multi‐level private entities.Here we present five key challenges, and suggest their corresponding solutions, when promoting the operationalization of ecosystem services within agribusiness. The challenges we developed are as follows: (a) building a common understanding of ecosystem services; (b) navigating strong power dynamics; (c) a highly technical system with diverse types of expertise; (d) limited understanding of the opportunity costs of alternative practices and (e), dealing with uncertainty.We draw on our experience generated through the Wine, Climate Change and Biodiversity programme, a science‐based initiative promoting the conservation of biodiversity and strategic use of ecosystem services in Chilean vineyards.Synthesis and applications. This perspective piece provides advice to scientists and practitioners on how to navigate technical and practical challenges when promoting the incorporation of ecosystem services into agricultural management. While the assessment of ecosystem services can be a highly technical process, its successful integration into land management decisions relies on active engagement, balancing expectations and an ability to construct a shared understanding among different stakeholders. The approaches suggested here rely on principles of co‐production and are illustrated with examples that are transferable to other crop and geographical contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Currently, polymeric biomaterials are the choice for the design of scaffolds for the regeneration of peripheral nerves. Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is a polymer belonging to the class of polyesters that are produced naturally in nature by microorganisms. To gain a better understanding of the efficacy of therapeutic approaches involving PHB scaffolds for peripheral nerve regeneration, we conducted a systematic review of the literature with the aim of discussing the current knowledge of PHB scaffolds applied to nerve regeneration. The use of PHB as a biomaterial to prepare tubular scaffolds for nerve regeneration was shown to be promising. The incorporation of additives appears to be a trend that improves nerve regeneration. In the last two decades, artificial scaffolds for nerve regeneration have been produced using a variety of polymers. Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) is a natural polyester that can be easily processed and offer several advantages; hence, the purpose of this review is to provide a better understanding of the efficacy of therapeutic approaches involving PHB scaffolds in promoting peripheral nerve regeneration following nerve dissection in animal models. A systematic literature review was performed following the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses" (PRISMA) criteria. The revised databases were: Pub-Med/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Science Direct, EMBASE, and SCOPUS. Sixteen studies were included in this review. Different animal models and nerves were studied. Extension of nerve gaps reconnected by PHB scaffolds and the time periods of analysis were varied. The additives included in the scaffolds, if any, were growth factors, neurotrophins, other biopolymers, and neural progenitor cells. The analysis of the quality of the studies revealed good quality in general, with some aspects that could be improved. The analysis of the risk of bias revealed several weaknesses in all studies. The use of PHB as a biomaterial to prepare tubular scaffolds for nerve regeneration was shown to be promising. The incorporation of additives appears to be a trend that improves nerve regeneration. One of the main weaknesses of the reviewed articles was the lack of standardized experimentation on animals. It is recommended to follow the currently available guidelines to improve the design, avoid the risk of bias, maximize the quality of studies, and enhance translationality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iron-reducing bacteria (IRB) are crucial for electron transfer in anaerobic soil microsites. The utilization of the energy gathered by this mechanism by decomposers of organic matter is a challenging and fascinating issue. We hypothesized that bacteria reducing Fe(III) (oxyhydr)oxides to soluble Fe(II) obtain electrons from reduced soil organic matter (SOM r) involving lignin oxidation. Iron-reducing bacteria were isolated from topsoils of various climates (humid temperate, cold temperate, subpolar), vegetation types (mostly grasslands and forests), and derived from various parent materials treatments assigned as Granitic, Volcanic-allophanic, Fluvio-glacial, Basaltic-Antarctic and Metamorphic. After the screening of IRB by phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis and PCR identification (full-length 16S rDNA), the IRB were inoculated to 20 samples (five soils and 4 replicates) and a broad range of parallel processes were traced. Geobacter metallireducens and Geobacter lovleyi were the main Geobacteraceae-strains present in all soils and strongly increased the activity of ligninolytic enzymes: lignin peroxidase and manganese peroxidase. Carbon dioxide (CO 2) released from IRB-inoculated soils was 140% higher than that produced by Fenton reactions (induced by H 2 O 2 and Fe(II) addition) but 40% lower than in non-sterile soils. CO 2 release was closely correlated with the produced Fe (II) and H 2 O 2 consumption. The highest CO 2 was released from Basaltic-Antarctic soils with the highest Fe content and was closely correlated with lignin depolymerization (detection by fluorescence images). All IRB oxidized the lignin contained in the SOM within a wide pH range and in soils from all parent materials. We present a conceptual model showing electron shuttling from SOM containing lignin (as a C and energy source) to IRB to produce energy and promote Fe(III) (oxyhydr)oxides reduction was proposed and discussed. Unlabelled Image • Iron-reducing bacteria, including Geobacter spp. mineralize lignin-like compounds. • Basaltic derived soil (1.4% C) evolved 20-fold CO 2 than volcanic soil (11.4% C). • The higher the Fe oxide content in the soil the higher the Fe(II) solubilization. • Anaerobic microbial respiration promotes high soil organic matter oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carnivores play an important role in ecosystem functioning as apex predators. However, most carnivore species are threatened or have been extirpated in human-dominated landscapes. The Mediterranean region of central Chile is a biodiversity hotspot, but expansion of agricultural areas such as vineyards is degrading wildlife habitat. We estimated the species richness and composition of carnivore communities in remnant fragments of sclerophyllous forest-shrubland in the vineyard landscapes of central Chile to evaluate the effects of human disturbance at different spatial scales. We tested two hypotheses: (1) vineyard landscapes with higher levels of human disturbance support a lower diversity of native carnivores in fragments of remnant native vegetation compared to landscapes with larger areas of natural habitat, and (2) habitat specialists and generalists respond differentially to human influence at the habitat vs landscape spatial scale. We used camera traps at 12 sites across the study area and evaluated the impact of human disturbance indicators on the richness and detection frequency of carnivore species. We found that human population density negatively affected carnivore richness and was associated with a lower detection frequency of the Vulnerable guiña Leopardus guigna. The presence of domestic dogs also had a negative effect on the detection frequency of the guiña and the two native species of foxes, the culpeo Lycalopex culpaeus and South American grey fox Lycalopex griseus. We conclude that protecting remnants of native forest in vineyard landscapes is crucial for carnivore conservation in central Chile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phyllosphere bacteria have received little attention despite their important roles in shaping plant performance traits. In this study, we characterize the bacterial communities on leaves of native trees inhabiting sclerophyllous forests in central Chile, one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. Additionally, we provide profiles of bacterial communities on grape leaves and berries of organic and conventional vineyards. Results of 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequence analysis showed that 45% of OTUs were shared across forest leaves, grape leaves, and grape berries. Conventional management had higher number of OTUs shared with forest leaves than organic management. In addition, grape leaves subjected to conventional management had higher alpha diversity than those with organic management, while no significant effect of agricultural management was observed in grape berries. Indicator analysis showed that Bdellovibrio, Beijerinckia, and Spirosoma were typical for forest leaves, whereas Enhydrobacter, Delftia, Proteiniclasticum, Arsenicicoccus, and Alkaliphilus were typical for the vineyard phyllosphere. Regarding agricultural managements, Beijerinckia, Sedimentibacter, Nesterenkonia, Gluconobacter, Conexibacter, and Anaeromyxobacter were typical for conventional grape leaves, whereas no genus‐level indicator was found for organic vineyard leaves. These results provide new insights of the diversity patterns of the phyllosphere microbiome in native and cultivated lands and suggest that both of these microbiomes are connected and integrated systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there are substantial studies suggesting that characteristics of wine are related to regional microbial community composition (microbial terroir), there has been little discussion about what factors affect variation in regional microbial community composition. In this study, we compared the microbial community composition of leaves and berries of a grape variety (Carmenere) from six different Chilean vineyards within 35 km of each other. In order to determine relationships between spatial proximity and microbial compositional dissimilarity, we sequenced amplicons of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region for fungi and 16S rRNA gene for bacteria. Results showed that both the fungal and the bacterial community compositions of the studied vineyards differed, but this difference was much clearer in fungi than in bacteria. In addition, while bacterial community dissimilarity was not correlated with geographic distance, the leaf and berry fungal community dissimilarities between locations increased with geographic distance. This indicates that spatial processes play an important role in structuring the biogeographic pattern of grape-associated fungal communities at local scales, which might in turn contribute to the local identity of wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R719 --> 784.1 --> Introduction: Peripheral nerve damage causes loss of quality of life due to loss of function. An innovative and promising solution has been the "nerve guide conduits" (NGC) that morphologically must mimic the characteristics of the extracellular matrix to enhance nerve regeneration. Objective: To gather and describe the main features that should be considered when preparing polymeric NGC to improve peripheral nerve regeneration. Methods: For this purpose, a Scoping Review was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR) using the following databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scientific Electronic Library Online. Only primary studies that analyzed the morphological characteristics of polymeric NGC associated with peripheral nerve regeneration were included. Results: 704 studies were found in the different databases, and only 52 were selected following the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The review of selected studies showed that the polymeric NGC morphological characteristics found were: 1. NGC diameter affects the mechanical properties of the scaffold. 2. Wall thickness of NGC determines the exchange of nutrients, molecules, and neurotrophins between the internal and external environment; and influences the mechanical properties and biodegradation. NGC 3. porosity, 4. pore size, and 5. pore distribution also affects exchanges of substances, their mechanical properties, and biodegradation. The 6. alignment of the NGC fibers influences the phenotype of cells involved in nerve regeneration. And finally, the 7. thickness of the polymeric fiber influences neurite extension and orientation. Conclusion: Considering the revised literature, a polymeric NGC should consider its diameter adjusted to the nerve with wall thickness, porosity, pore size, and distribution of pores, to favor vascularization, permeability, and exchange of nutrients, and retention of neurotrophic factors, also favoring its mechanical properties and biodegradability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The effect of high selenite supply on Se uptake, antioxidant performance and gene expression of two sulfate transporters in three wheat genotypes was investigated. Methods: Puelche, Tinto and Kumpa wheat genotypes were grown hidroponically at 0, 30 or 60 μM selenite. Shoots and roots were harvested during 7days to evaluate Se uptake, lipid peroxidation, SOD activity and radical scavenging activity. Measurements of ROS, chloroplasts morphological changes and sulfate transporters expression ( Taesultr1. 1a and Taesultr4. 1) were also made. Results: Tinto and Kumpa taken up lower Se amounts than Puelche and total biomass of all wheat genotypes decreased at 7days as a consequence of Se supply. Nevertheless, Puelche exhibited the lowest reduction of shoot yield without changes in root DW, which was concomitant with both the decrease of about 30 % of lipid peroxidation and the maintenance of SOD activity. Differential changes in ROS production, chloroplast morphology and gene expression of sulfate transporters were found among the three genotypes during the experiment. Conclusion: Puelche appear to be the most Se-tolerant wheat genotype because of its lowest oxidative damage due to preserved SOD activity and its greatest Se accumulation. This behaviour was associated with the strongest transcript level of Taesultr4. 1 sulfate transporter in roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mediterranean central Chile is globally recognized as a hotspot for terrestrial biodiversity due to its high endemism and massive habitat loss. However, within the rural landscape of central Chile, significant extents of natural areas remain, especially on less productive, steep slopes, and vegetation strips extending from the surrounding hills to agricultural areas. Accordingly, vegetation strips or corridors, within lowland farms, constitute key elements to support the conservation of biodiversity in rural landscapes. To assess the ecological performance of corridors in 22 commercials vineyards in central Chile, we characterized them in terms of width-, length-, area-, and perimeter-to-area ratios, as well as the number of connections with natural areas. Based on a set of previously defined ecological indicators (species, functional groups, and structural components), we compared their occurrence in corridors within vineyards and in the surrounding natural areas. We evaluated the effects of corridor attributes on the occurrence of the selected ecological indicators, using a generalized linear mixed model with each vineyard as a random factor. The area, width, and length of vegetation corridors varied widely (1.2–86.3 ha, 10.5–95 m, and 380–5000 m, respectively). We found significant differences in the occurrence of indicators between corridors and natural areas. All sampled ecological indicators in corridors showed a negative relationship with the distance to the nearest natural area. Vegetation strips within vineyards represent important opportunities for biodiversity conservation that significantly enhance habitat quality in the agricultural landscape for biodiversity and habitat connectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R2004 --> Introduction: Cellular behavior in peripheral nerve regeneration is directly affected by the architecture of the Scaffold or Nerve Guide Conduits (NGC) therefore design features and selection of a suitable NGC are critical for neural tissue engineering. Thus, the objective of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the adequate parameters of tubular scaffold features. Review methods: A qualitative systematic review of the literature was carried out following the criteria of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). The following databases were used: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Scielo. A preliminary search was made to establish the main morphological characteristics of a tubular scaffold that influence peripheral nerve regeneration, converging on seven: Scaffold adjustment; wall thickness; porosity; pore size and orientation; alignment and thickness of the fibers. Finally, a new systematic search was carried out including the main characteristics. Primary studies studying one or more pre‐established characteristics were included. Results: A total of 1901 studies were found, and 50 animals and/or in vitro studies were selected. In general, the oversized Scaffold negatively affects nerve regeneration. On the other hand, an electrospun fibrous Scaffold, with aligned fibers from 0.76 to 5 µm thick, a wall thickness between 250‐400 μm, the porosity of 60‐80%, asymmetric, with nano‐sized pores (∼50 nm) on the internal surface and pores of micrometric size (∼50 μm) on the external surface, significantly favored nerve regeneration, resulting in increased nutrient permeability, retention of neurotrophic factors, and optimal mechanical properties. Conclusions: The incorporation of these optimal morphological characteristics described in the literature in the tubular scaffolds will favor peripheral nerve regeneration and will help to reduce the number of in vitro and in vivo experimental studies necessary to evaluate the bioartificial nerve graft since it will provide the initial morphological parameters in its elaboration, ensuring success in morphological terms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R1856 --> Introduction: Peripheral nerve injuries remain a challenge in regenerative medicine. Biocompatible polymer tubular nerve guides (GNTs) have been shown to be a promising strategy in the regeneration of total nerve disruption injuries (neurotmesis). The purpose of this systematic literature review was to search and analyze the evidence on the use of the polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) biopolymer GNT in the regeneration of peripheral nerves in an animal model. Material and method: A systematic search was carried out in the search engines: PubMed / MEDLINE, Web of Science, Science Direct, EMBASE and SCOPUS. Using the phrase: ("PHB" OR "P3HB") AND ("nerve injury" OR "nerve lesion" OR "nerve regeneration"). Between September/2019 and March/2020. In vivo studies with no date limit were considered. Results: 193 studies were identified, of which 71 were excluded because they were not related to the topic. Of the remaining 122 studies, 82 were duplicated. Finally, of the remaining 40 studies, 23 were excluded because they were "in vitro" studies and 1 clinical study. Finally 16 studies were reviewed in full text. Conclusions: Since the 1990s there have been studies with PHB GNT for nerve injury, primarily in rabbits and rodents. The analysis times and the size of the nerve GAPs do not reveal a standardization. Most of the studies used industrially manufactured PHB sheets. As of 2003, a tendency to include additives (growth factors, neurotrophins and neuroprogenitor cells) to the GNT was noticed. Most of the studies analyzed morphological aspects (macroscopic morphology, histology, immunohistochemistry and ultrastructure), only 3 studies performed functional tests. Overall, the results were positive for the use of GNT made with PHB in animal studies. However, more controlled clinical and functional studies should be performed to confirm the results obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aluminum (Al) toxicity is one of the main growth and yield limiting factors for barley grown on acid soils. Silicon (Si) ameliorates Al toxicity as well as it promotes the phenolic compounds production that have antioxidant or structural role. We evaluated the time-dependent kinetics of Al and Si uptake and the impact of Si on the production of antioxidant- or structural- phenols in barley cultivars at the short-term. Two barley cultivars with contrasting Al tolerance (Hordeum vulgare 'Sebastian', Al tolerant; and H. vulgare 'Scarlett', Al sensitive), exposed to either −Al (0 mM) or +Al (0.2 mM) nutrient solutions without Si (−Si) or with 2 mM (+Si) were cultured for 48 h. Aluminum and Si concentration decreased in plants at all harvest times when Al and Si were simultaneously supplied; this effect was more noticeable in 'Scarlett'. Nevertheless, Si influenced the antioxidant system of barley irrespective of the Al tolerance of the cultivar, decreasing oxidative damage and enhancing radical scavenging activity, the production of phenolic compounds, and lignin accumulation in barley with short-term exposure to Al. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]