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Lists several upcoming papers related to microbiology published on the January 26, 1990 issue of the "European Journal of Biochemistry."

Fourteen Ganoderma lucidum strains from different geographic regions were identified using ITS region sequencing. Based on the sequences obtained, the genomic relationship between the analyzed strains was determined. All G. lucidum strains were also genetically characterized using the AFLP technique. G. lucidum strains included in the analysis displayed an AFLP profile similarity level in the range from 9.6 to 33.9%. Biolog FF MicroPlates were applied to obtain data on utilization of 95 carbon sources and mitochondrial activity. The analysis allowed comparison of functional diversity of the fungal strains. The substrate utilization profiles for the isolates tested revealed a broad variability within the analyzed G. lucidum species and proved to be a good profiling technology for studying the diversity in fungi. Significant differences have been demonstrated in substrate richness values. Interestingly, the analysis of growth and biomass production also differentiated the strains based on the growth rate on the agar and sawdust substrate. In general, the mycelial growth on the sawdust substrate was more balanced and the fastest fungal growth was observed for GRE3 and FCL192. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hackathons are collaborative events that bring together diverse groups to solve predefined challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has emphasized the need for portable and reproducible genomics analysis pipelines to study the genetic susceptibility of the human host and investigate human-SARS-CoV-2 protein interactions. To build and strengthen institutional capacities in OMICS data analysis applied to host-pathogen interaction (HPI), the PHINDaccess project organized two hackathons in 2020 and 2021. These hackathons are aimed at developing bioinformatics pipelines related to the SARS-CoV-2 viral genome, its phylodynamic transmission, and the identification of human genome host variants, with a focus on addressing global health challenges, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). This paper outlines the preparation, proceedings, and lessons learned from these hackathons, including the challenges faced by participants and our recommendations based on our experience for organizing hackathons in LMIC and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Patient and public involvement ( PPI) is increasingly recognized as bringing a range of benefits to clinical and health services research. Recent systematic reviews have identified and synthesized many benefits (eg higher recruitment rates) and some costs (eg extra time need). Much of the literature focuses on PPI in long-term conditions rather than more acute health care in which the majority of microbiological research is undertaken. Objectives The aim was to identify the extent, quality and impact of PPI in antimicrobial drug development research. Objectives were to identify any relevant reporting of PPI in antimicrobial research; appraise the quality of reporting on PPI using recognized PPI reporting and critical appraisal tools; and extract and synthesize data on the impact of PPI. Search strategy A systematic review was undertaken with a search strategy based on four word groups ( PPI, patients, antimicrobial drug development and outcomes). Eight online databases were searched. Inclusion criteria English language publication, publication between 1996 and 2016 and studies describing PPI in antimicrobial drug development research. Main results No studies were found through online searching that met the search strategy and inclusion criteria. One relevant protocol paper with a brief mention of PPI was identified through expert recommendation. Commentary papers recommending PPI were identified through website searching and expert opinion. Discussion and conclusions Despite strong policy guidance encouraging PPI at the international and national levels, and anecdotal accounts of PPI taking place, evidence for the extent, quality and impact of PPI in antimicrobial drug development research has not yet appeared in the peer-reviewed literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bibliometric analyses are often used as a means of visualising the knowledge base and associated trends and patterns in a target scientific field based on a quantitative review of the corresponding literature. In this study, we explore the current status of research pertaining to biofilms in wound healing and elucidate trends in this research space. Through this process, we gain insight into findings from papers indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection. These references were then analysed and plotted using Microsoft Excel 2019, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace V. The results provide a fresh perspective regarding global trends and hotspots in biofilm‐related wound healing research. These findings also offer a foundation that researchers can use to identify active hotspots of scientific interest to guide further research endeavours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microbial cellulases have shown their potential application in various industries including pulp and paper, textile, laundry, biofuel production, food and feed industry, brewing, and agriculture. Due to the complexity of enzyme system and immense industrial potential, cellulases have been a potential candidate for research by both the academic and industrial research groups. Nowadays, significant attentions have been devoted to the current knowledge of cellulase production and the challenges in cellulase research especially in the direction of improving the process economics of various industries. Scientific and technological developments and the future prospects for application of cellulases in different industries are discussed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents several research works related to immunology. "Innate mechanisms for Bifidobacterium lactis to activate transient pro-inflammatory host responses in intestinal epithelial cells after the colonization of germfree rats," by Pedro Ruiz, Micha Hoffmann and Silke Szcesny; "Paired immunoglobulin-like receptors and their MHC class I recognition," by Toshiyuki Takai; "Activation of murine dendritic cells and macrophages induced by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium," by Ruwani Sagarika Kalupahana, Pietro Mastroeni and Duncan Maskell.

Globally, fermented beverage and condiments are made by using different conventional practices, raw materials, and microorganisms. This paper presents the available literature review on the technology and microbiology of traditional Ethiopian beverages and condiment products. Traditional fermented beverage and condiment products have essential vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants that are all enhanced through the process of traditional fermentation practices. In Ethiopia, fermented beverage and condiment products have practiced in a long history. During the production of traditional fermented beverage and condiment products, controlled natural fermentation process with the absence of starter cultures are used to initiate it. Moreover, the preparation of many traditionally fermented beverage and condiment products is still practiced in a household art, thereby a wide variety of fermented beverages and condiments are consumed in Ethiopia. In conclusion, the review discusses the nature of the beverage and condiment preparation, poor traditional household processing, and the extent and limitation of scientific work done so far and suggests some recommendations to limit the problem in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two papers in this issue of Molecular Microbiology from Carol Gross and colleagues describe experiments that investigate how two alternative Escherichia coliσ proteins recognize target promoter −10 regions. A combination of genetics, biochemistry and bioinformatics is used to show that determinants in two adjacent domains of the σ proteins contact discrete sequence elements in the −10 regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular microbiology, which is the interaction between harmful microbes and infected cells, is important in the determination of the bacterial infection processes and in the progression of data of different cellular mechanisms. The therapeutic role of bacteria has gained attention since the known methods such as radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy have got drawbacks. Bacteria have demonstrated a favorable impact in treating cancer through eradication of tumors. Bacteria, in cancer treatment, have proven to be promising and have been shown in some of the previous work that it can successfully suppress the growth of tumors. In this paper, we analyzed the difficulties and settlement for using bacteria in cancer therapy as well the mechanisms in which bacteria works in order to achieve tumor eradication. Future works may focus on the use of bacteria along with other treatments in order to achieve effective tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented milk products play a vital role in the diets of Ethiopians. They are produced from either spontaneous fermentation or back‐slopping methods at the household level, in which lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and yeasts predominate. As a result, the processing steps are not standardized and overall safety is still of public health relevance. Therefore, quality and safety improvement, standardization of traditional manufacturing practices, and commercialization of products to a wider market are important. Hence, this systematic review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the microbiology of traditional Ethiopian fermented milk products, including ergo (spontaneously fermented whole milk), dhanaan (fermented camel milk), ititu (concentrated sour milk or spontaneously fermented milk curd), ayib (traditional cottage cheese), qibe (traditional butter), arrera (defatted buttermilk), and hazo (spiced fermented buttermilk). We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and searched relevant databases and search engines, including the Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and ResearchGate. Furthermore, the pertinent literature was checked individually and identified. Dairy fermentation provides shelf‐life extension and improves the organoleptic quality of products. Nonetheless, the aforementioned Ethiopian fermented foods may be contaminated with Escherichia coli 0157: H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp., or Staphylococcus aureus due to inadequate processing and handling practices. This systematic review also revealed that these traditional milk products lack consistent quality and safety due to poor hygienic preparation techniques, non‐controlled fermentation, and limited knowledge or awareness of small‐holder dairy farmers. Therefore, the use of suitable procedures including good hygienic practices and controlled fermentation is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents information related to the journal "Molecular Microbiology." Although the majority of papers published in the journal have addressed prokaryotic microorganisms, the journal has increasingly received and published papers on eukaryotic microorganisms. Thus, the journal has added new expertise to its editorial team in order to expand coverage and solicit the most important papers in molecular parasitology and molecular mycology. Three new editors have joined the editorial team of the journal: Alan Cowman, Bill Goldman and David Holden.

The large size of poxvirus virions (∼250–300 µm) makes them dependent on active transport for intracellular movement during infection. Several recent papers have reported the utilization of the microtubule network by poxviruses during viral egress and their use of conventional kinesin for intracellular transport. This review looks at recent reports of poxvirus intracellular transport for virion egress and their interaction with the microtubule network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Natural products are widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries due to their high‐value bioactive compounds, which make for "greener" and more environmentally friendly ingredients. These natural compounds are also considered a safer alternative to antibiotics, which may result in antibiotic resistance as well as unfavorable side effects. The development of cosmeceuticals, which combine the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields to create skincare products with therapeutic value, has increased the demand for unique natural resources. The objective of this review is to discuss the biological properties of extracts derived from larvae of the black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens), the appropriate extraction methods, and the potential of this insect as a novel active ingredient in the formulation of new cosmeceutical products. This review also addresses the biological actions of compounds originating from the BSF, and the possible association between the diets of BSF larvae and their subsequent bioactive composition. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify and evaluate the various biological properties of the BSF. Results: One such natural resource that may be useful in the cosmeceutical field is the BSF, a versatile insect with numerous potential applications due to its nutrient content and scavenging behavior. Previous research has also shown that the BSF has several biological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and wound healing effects. Conclusion: Given the range of biological activities and metabolites possessed by the BSF, this insect may have the cosmeceutical potential to treat a number of skin pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This methods issue focuses on new approaches and techniques to study pathogen biology and infection, but many of these may be applied to a range of studies in microbiology. In this special issue of I Molecular Microbiology i , we profile an exceptional collection of papers describing emerging methods in the study of microbiology. In the study of host-pathogen interactions, in vitro models of infection remain critical to dissecting the host and pathogen components that promote or fight infection. [Extracted from the article]

Editorial. Comments on the articles included in the issue of the journal 'Molecular Microbiology.' Increase in the papers on eukaryotic microorganisms; Expansion of the editorial team; Implementation of the online submission and reviewing of manuscripts on microbiology.

Electron cryotromography, a relatively new methodology in the field of microbiology, has been exploited by Murphy et al. (in this issue of Molecular Microbiology) in their analysis of the recently isolated termite gut spirochete Treponema primitia. Unique structures (bowls, arcades of hooks, cones at the cell ends, two layers of wall material) were evident from the analysis of its surface and internal constituents. These results, coupled to video microscopy analysis of swimming cells, allowed the authors to propose a model of cell motility. This highly significant paper highlights the importance of electron cryotomography to the field of microbiology. It also illustrates that newly cultured recalcitrant bacteria from complex environments are likely to possess novel structures not previously seen in other species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a list of publications published in several journals including "Air Pollutants: Effects on Forest Ecosystems," from the Acid Rain Foundation, "Plant Microbiology," by R. Campbell, "Sex in Nature," C. Catton and J. Gray, "The Elements of Graphing Data," edited by W. S. Cleveland and "Case Studies in Population Biology," edited L. M. Cook.

Predictive microbiology is a rapidly evolving field that has gained significant interest over the years due to its diverse application in food safety. Predictive models are widely used in food microbiology to estimate the growth of microorganisms in food products. These models represent the dynamic interactions between intrinsic and extrinsic food factors as mathematical equations and then apply these data to predict shelf life, spoilage, and microbial risk assessment. Due to their ability to predict the microbial risk, these tools are also integrated into hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) protocols. However, like most new technologies, several limitations have been linked to their use. Predictive models have been found incapable of modeling the intricate microbial interactions in food colonized by different bacteria populations under dynamic environmental conditions. To address this issue, researchers are integrating several new technologies into predictive models to improve efficiency and accuracy. Increasingly, newer technologies such as whole genome sequencing (WGS), metagenomics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are being rapidly adopted into newer-generation models. This has facilitated the development of devices based on robotics, the Internet of Things, and time-temperature indicators that are being incorporated into food processing both domestically and industrially globally. This study reviewed current research on predictive models, limitations, challenges, and newer technologies being integrated into developing more efficient models. Machine learning algorithms commonly employed in predictive modeling are discussed with emphasis on their application in research and industry and their advantages over traditional models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the possibility of using active coatings based on Zedo gum containing essential oils of Zataria multiflora Boiss (ZE) and tarragon (TE) to increase the shelf life and maintain the quality of freshly cut potato strips. The chemical compositions of ZE and TE were initially identified, and their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were investigated. ZE consisted mainly of carvacrol (26.26%), p‐cymene (21.50%), thymol (18.05%), and linalool (11.31%), and those of TE comprised p‐allylanisole (81.92%), β‐Ocimene E (8.06%), and β‐Ocimene Z (5.35%). Afterwards, a Zedo gum active coating (1% v/w) containing 1% (v/v) essential oil was prepared, and the produced coating solutions were used to soak the potato strips for 5 min. The coated potatoes were kept fresh in a refrigerator for 9 days, and their quality characteristics were examined every 3 days. The results show that the weight loss, browning index, total microbial count, and mold and yeast counts in the strips increased during 9 days of cold storage, and hardness decreased (p <.05). However, the coatings of strips, especially those containing essential oils, reduced the intensity of changes in moisture, color, and hardness, increased microbial stability, and maintained the sensory acceptance of strips compared with the uncoated sample (control). Finally, this study demonstrated that the quality and shelf life of fresh potato strips can be improved by using active coatings based on Zedo gum containing ZE and TE (especially ZE). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria is a major public health threat and conjugative plasmids play a key role in the dissemination of AMR genes among bacterial pathogens. Interestingly, the association between AMR plasmids and pathogens is not random and certain associations spread successfully at a global scale. The burst of genome sequencing has increased the resolution of epidemiological programs, broadening our understanding of plasmid distribution in bacterial populations. Despite the immense value of these studies, our ability to predict future plasmid-bacteria associations remains limited. Numerous empirical studies have recently reported systematic patterns in genetic interactions that enable predictability, in a phenomenon known as global epistasis. In this perspective, we argue that global epistasis patterns hold the potential to predict interactions between plasmids and bacterial genomes, thereby facilitating the prediction of future successful associations. To assess the validity of this idea, we use previously published data to identify global epistasis patterns in clinically relevant plasmid-bacteria associations. Furthermore, using simple mechanistic models of antibiotic resistance, we illustrate how global epistasis patterns may allow us to generate new hypotheses on the mechanisms associated with successful plasmid-bacteria associations. Collectively, we aim at illustrating the relevance of exploring global epistasis in the context of plasmid biology. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria is a major public health threat and plasmids play a key role in AMR gene dissemination. This Review discusses the relevance of global epistasis patterns for predicting AMR evolution and generating hypotheses about the mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper was to estimate microbial growth through predictive modelling as a key element in determining the quantitative microbiological contamination of sea bass stored in ice and cultivated in different seasons of the year. In the present study, two different statistical models were used to analyse changes in microbial growth in whole, ungutted sea bass ( Dicentrarchus labrax) stored in ice. The total counts of aerobic mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria, Pseudomonas sp., Aeromonas sp., Shewanella putrefaciens, Enterobacteriaceae, sulphide-reducing Clostridium and Photobacterium phosphoreum were determined in muscle, skin and gills over an 18-day period using traditional methods and evaluating the seasonal effect. The results showed that specific spoilage bacteria ( SSB) were dominant in all tissues analysed, but were mainly found in the gills. Predictive modelling showed a seasonal effect among the fish analysed. The application of these models can contribute to the improvement of food safety control by improving knowledge of the microorganisms responsible for the spoilage and deterioration of sea bass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phospholipases are a complex and important group of enzymes widespread in nature, that play crucial roles in diverse biochemical processes and are classified as A1, A2, C, and D. Phospholipases A1 and A2 activities have been linked to pathogenesis in various microorganisms, and particularly in pathogenic protozoa they have been implicated in cell invasion. Kinetoplastids are a group of flagellated protozoa, including extra- and intracellular parasites that cause severe disease in humans and animals. In the present paper, we will mainly focus on the three most important kinetoplastid human pathogens, Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma cruzi, and Leishmania spp., giving a perspective of the research done up to now regarding biochemical, biological, and molecular characteristics of Phospholipases A1 and A2 and their contribution to pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) belongs to the viral family Circoviridae and to the genus Circovirus. Circoviruses are small, single-stranded nonenveloped DNA viruses that have an unsegmented circular genome. PCV2 is the primary causative agent of several syndromes collectively known as porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD). Many of the syndromes associated with PCVAD are a result of coinfection with PCV2 virus and other agents such as Mycoplasma and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus. PCV2 infection is present in every major swine-producing country in the world, and the number of identified cases of PCVAD is rapidly increasing. In the United States, the disease has cost producers an average of 3–4 dollars per pig with peak losses ranging up to 20 dollars per pig. The importance of this disease has stimulated investigations aimed at identifying risk factors associated with infection and minimizing these risks through modified management practices and development of vaccination strategies. This paper provides an overview of current knowledge relating to PCV2 and PCVAD with an emphasis on information relevant to the swine veterinarian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water disinfection is usually evaluated using mandatory methods based on cell culturability. However, such methods do not consider the potential of cells to recover, which should also be kept as low as possible. In this paper, we hypothesized that a successful disinfection is achieved only when the applied chlorine leads to both intracellular nucleic acid damage and strong alterations of the DNA repair machinery. Monitoring the SOS system responsiveness with a umuC'-'lacZ reporter fusion, we found that the expression of this important cellular machinery was altered after the beginning of membrane permeabilization but prior to the total decline of both the cell culturability and the nucleic acid integrity as revealed by Sybr-II staining. Rapid measurement of such nucleic acid alterations by fluorochrome-based staining could be used as an alternative method for assessing the effectiveness of disinfection with chlorine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gram-negative phytopathogenic bacteria, such as Pseudomonas syringae, deliver multiple effector proteins into plant cells during infection. It is hypothesized that certain plant and mammalian effector proteins need to traverse the type III secretion system unfolded and are delivered into host cells as inactive enzymes. We have previously identified cyclophilin as the Arabidopsis eukaryotic activator of AvrRpt2, a P. syringae effector that is a cysteine protease. Cyclophilins are general folding catalysts and possess peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase (PPIase) activity. In this paper, we demonstrate the mechanism of AvrRpt2 activation by the Arabidopsis cyclophilin ROC1. ROC1 mutants lacking PPIase enzymatic activity were unable to activate AvrRpt2. Furthermore, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy revealed a structural change in AvrRpt2 from an unfolded to a folded state in the presence of ROC1. Using in vitro binding assays, ROC1's consensus binding sequence was identified as GPxL, a motif present at four sites within AvrRpt2. The GPxL motifs are located in close proximity to AvrRpt2's catalytic triad and are required for protease activity both in vitro and in planta. These data suggest that after delivery into the plant cell during infection, cyclophilin binds AvrRpt2 at four sites and properly folds the effector protein by peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique GTP-binding protein, Der contains two consecutive GTP-binding domains at the N-terminal region and its homologues are highly conserved in eubacteria but not in archaea and eukaryotes. In the present paper, we demonstrate that Der is one of the essential GTPases in Escherichia coli and that the growth rate correlates with the amount of Der in the cell. Interestingly, both GTP-binding domains are required at low temperature for cell growth, while at high temperature either one of the two domains is dispensable. Result of the sucrose density gradient experiment suggests that Der interacts specifically with 50S ribosomal subunits only in the presence of a GTP analogue, GMPPNP. The depletion of Der accumulates 50S and 30S ribosomal subunits with a concomitant reduction of polysomes and 70S ribosomes. Notably, Der-depleted cells accumulate precursors of both 23S and 16S rRNAs. Moreover, at lower Mg2+ concentration, 50S ribosomal subunits from Der-depleted cells are further dissociated into aberrant 50S ribosomal subunits; however, 30S subunits are stable. It was revealed that the aberrant 50S subunits, 40S subunits, contain less ribosomal proteins with significantly reduced amounts of L9 and L18. These results suggest that Der is a novel 50S ribosome-associated factor involved in the biogenesis and stability of 50S ribosomal subunits. We propose that Der plays a pivotal role in ribosome biogenesis possibly through interaction with rRNA or rRNA/r–protein complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes some of the work done in the author's laboratory over the past 35 years. The research covers the following areas: the physiology of oral streptococci and their interactions; the physiology of some Gram-negative anaerobes and their interactions in relation to periodontal diseases; preventing the major dental diseases; and the future of oral microbiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report summarises the outcomes from the EFSA funded ListeriaPredict Partnering Project based on the consortium's proposal of "Application of novel predictive microbiology techniques to shelf‐life studies on Listeria monocytogenes in ready‐to‐eat foods (ListeriaPredict)" submitted under EFSA open call for partnering grant projects. The consortium consisted of four partners, University College Dublin (Coordinator), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale di Abruzzo e Molise and Universidad de Córdoba. Listeria monocytogenes is a major hazard of concern in the broad ready‐to‐eat (RTE) food sector both at EU level and globally. Its ability to grow at refrigerated temperatures causes particular food safety concerns for RTE foods. There has been substantial activity within the European Union to provide guidance on how to conduct laboratory shelf‐life studies on L. monocytogenes in RTE foods to assure product safety. Shelf‐life studies, by their nature, are expensive and pose considerable resourcing challenges to small and medium sized companies that dominate the food sector across Europe. Predictive microbiology has a critical role in interpreting the results of experimental challenge tests and extending their application under varying environmental conditions. This project worked to substantially enhance capacity in the four partner institutions across Europe in applying predictive microbiology techniques to shelf‐life studies on L. monocytogenes in RTE foods. Knowledge transfer activities included workshops, online webinars and short scientific visits. Knowledge exchange activities targeted the broad area of predictive dynamic modelling. Static and dynamic growth experiments undertaken by one of the project partners was used as input to collectively develop a series of dynamic modelling approaches to obtain the optimum growth rates and cardinal parameters governing the growth of L. monocytogenes. To ensure continuity, the project disseminated the expertise and knowledge accumulated within the consortium to a wider audience through archiving training materials in the EFSA Knowledge Junction repository to allow the resources generated by the project to be available beyond the lifetime of the project. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine how soil organisms affect soil organic nitrogen (N) storage and mineralisation, we theoretically derive the soil substrate nitrogen to carbon ratio and total soil N storage for both donor-controlled (DC) and Lotka-Volterra (LV) soil systems with three trophic levels: substrate, microbes and grazers. We show that substrate N:C ratioand soil N storage are functions of the structure of the soil food web, of the properties of the organisms in the soil community, and of the properties of litter input from above ground. The carbon production-to-assimilation efficiency of soil organisms is the most importantproperty determining how the substrate N: C ratio and soil N storageare affected by changes in the soil community. The qualitative effects of grazers depend on whether they have an efficiency larger or smaller than some critical efficiencies. In this paper, we derive these critical efficiencies mathematically. Within the normal range of efficiencies, substrate N:C ratio and soil N storage will usually decrease, and the nitrogen mineralization will increase, with addition of grazers, or as a result of a succession of species from a lower to a higher level of metabolic activity. Numerical analyses show that an increase in soil temperature has a pronounced negative effect on soil N storage through the effects on the metabolic activity of organisms atall trophic levels. N dilution in litter, because of increased CO2 levels in the atmosphere, can lead to a moderate increase in soil N storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semi-dominant mutations in the amdA gene lead to elevated expression of the gene encoding acetamidase, amdS. These mutations also cause constitutive expression of the acetate-inducible gene, aciA. In the amdS 5' regulatory region, two cis-acting mutations, amdl66 and amdl666, have been isolated which specifically affect amdA activation of amdS. These mutations are a duplication and a triplication of an 18 bp GA-rich sequence, thought to define the amdA site of action within the amdS promoter region. Similar GA-rich sequences have also been found in the 5' region of aciA. This paper describes the cloning and initial functional characterization of the amdA gene and two of its mutant alleles. The wild-type amdA gene has been cloned by a chromosome walk from genes gatA and alcC on linkage group VII and localized by complementation of an amdA loss-of-function mutation. Transcriptional analysis reveals that the gene is expressed constitutively at low levels under growth conditions which affect expression of amdS and aciA. The gene is predicted to encode an 880-amino-acid protein which contains two C2H2 zinc fingers, a nuclear localization sequence and two transcriptional activation domains. The amdA7 semi-dominant gain-of-function mutation results in a glycine to aspartate substitution which would increase the acidity of one of these regions. Analysis of in vitro generated mutations in the 5' region of amdS using an amdS::lacZ reporter has been used to localize the site of action of AmdA. The C2H2 zinc-finger motifs identified in the protein are similar to those found in the carbon catabolite repressor protein, CreA, which also regulates amdS and recognizes sequences which overlap with the proposed site of action for AmdA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enzyme-IIIgle is part of the glucose phosphotransferase system of Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimturium and is phosphorylated by phosphoenolpyruvate in a reduction requiring enzyme 1 (phosphoeno/pyruvate-protein phospho- transferase), and the histidine-containing phospho-carrier protein HPr. In this paper we report the isolation of IIIgle from E. coil and the characterization of the activc center. Alkaline hydrolysis of [32P]P-IIIgle and chromatography of the hydrolysate suggested that the phosphoryl group is bound to a histidyl residue in P-IIIgle of S. typhimurium. Here we present 1H-NMR measurements of IIIgle and P-IIIgle from E. coli which further substantiate that the phosphoryl group in P-IIIgle is linked to the N-3 position of a histidyl residue. After phosporylation of IIIgle with [32P]Phosphoenolpyruvate, enzyme I and HPr, the phosphorylated protein was cleaved with either alkaline protease from Streptomyces griseus or subtilisin from Bacillus subtilis. According to amino acid analysis both proteases produced the same peptide carrying the phosphoryl group. The amino acid sequence of this peptide was found to be Val-His-Phe-Gly-Ile-Asp. The lower electrophoretic mobility of P-IIIgle on dodecylsulfute/polyacrylamide gels and its stronger binding to the hydrophobic matrix of a reversed-phase column compared to uuphosphorylated protein may indicate a structural change following phosphoenol/pyruvate-dependent phosphorylation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antibacterial activity of surfactants is an important factor to consider for improving skin conditions in cosmetic and skin care products. In this study, we evaluated the antibacterial activity of 16 nonionic surfactants containing ethylene oxide, ester, and ether functional groups against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis). 12:0 MG ester and 6–12 diol, which showed antibacterial activity against both Staphylococci, had compact hydrophilic groups with low polarity. In contrast, 12:0 PEG‐10 ester and 12:0 Sor ester, which showed antibacterial activity only against S. aureus, had large hydrophilic groups and high polarity. These results suggest that the hydrophilicity and polarity of the surfactant may be involved in its antibacterial behavior against Staphylococci. These findings will be useful in the design of surfactant molecules and in the development of cosmetics and body cleansers that exhibit antibacterial activity only against S. aureus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study aimed to improve the bioactive properties of yogurt by adding black and green tea at concentrations of 0.5 and 1% (w/v) (Control (C), B05, B1, G05, and G1). In general, tea addition increased the selected mineral concentrations in yogurt while no change in fat or protein contents was observed. Both black (B05: 148.82; B1: 253.29 μg GAE/g) and green (G05: 630.96 μg; G1: 1264.20 GAE/g) tea have enhanced the total phenolic content (C: 50.79 μg GAE/g) and antioxidant activity of yogurt significantly (P < 0.05), that is 100‐times increase in G1 compared to C. Although relatively higher syneresis rates were observed for green tea added yogurt, both teas and their increasing concentrations increased the syneresis. However, higher pH values and generally better textural qualities were observed in green tea‐added yogurt samples during storage. Increasing amounts of tea, especially green tea, resulted in a lower overall acceptability of yogurts, the most important reason for which is the decrease in flavour value. This study showed that the bioactive properties of yogurt could be improved through black and green tea additions without harming its microbial (>107 cfu/g during storage) and textural qualities and maintaining adequate sensory acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Super‐resolution optical imaging tools are crucial in microbiology to understand the complex structures and behavior of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. However, the capabilities of these tools, particularly when it comes to imaging pathogens and infected tissues, remain limited. MicroMagnify (µMagnify) is developed, a nanoscale multiplexed imaging method for pathogens and infected tissues that are derived from an expansion microscopy technique with a universal biomolecular anchor. The combination of heat denaturation and enzyme cocktails essential is found for robust cell wall digestion and expansion of microbial cells and infected tissues without distortion. µMagnify efficiently retains biomolecules suitable for high‐plex fluorescence imaging with nanoscale precision. It demonstrates up to eightfold expansion with µMagnify on a broad range of pathogen‐containing specimens, including bacterial and fungal biofilms, infected culture cells, fungus‐infected mouse tone, and formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded human cornea infected by various pathogens. Additionally, an associated virtual reality tool is developed to facilitate the visualization and navigation of complex 3D images generated by this method in an immersive environment allowing collaborative exploration among researchers worldwide. µMagnify is a valuable imaging platform for studying how microbes interact with their host systems and enables the development of new diagnosis strategies against infectious diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Practical methodologies that include food safety and hygiene education in pedagogical activities are strategies to prevent foodborne diseases (FBDs). Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge of 7th‐grade middle school students regarding food microbiology and food safety, and to apply workshop‐based educational strategies that focus on scientific literacy. The students (144) were initially evaluated using a Likert‐scale questionnaire (pre‐intervention, Q0) with ten objective questions on microbiology and food safety. Once the questionnaire was evaluated, interventions were conducted through five science workshops of 50 min, over a period of 5 months. The workshops included educational games, laboratory practices, videos, and lectures that addressed microorganisms that are known to cause the most common FBDs in Brazil. After each workshop, students were asked to express their opinions and understanding of the content through semi‐structured interviews. Six months after the end of the practical interventions, the students completed a second identical Likert‐scale questionnaire (post‐intervention, Q1), and the answers to both questionnaires (Q0 and Q1) were analyzed by calculating the middle rank. The middle rank of Q1 (mean = 0.65 ± 0.13) was 21% greater than the middle rank of Q0 (mean = 0.44 ± 0.16), and statistical significance was observed (p =.0135). This demonstrates that new information acquired during the workshops positively influenced learning. We believe that when practical approaches to food safety are included in school education as a priority, the prevalence of FBD will decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long non-coding RNAs have become the focus of considerable interest over the past few years. Intriguing novel functions have been reported for linc RNAs. Three recent papers identify linc RNAs that work in a more conventional way-encoding protein-in each case a small polypeptide with an interesting biological activity (Magny et al, ; Pauli et al, ), (Bazzini et al, ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, provides an important source of food and income, particularly fish for both domestic consumption and for export market. In recent years, Lake Victoria has suffered massive pollution from both industrial and wastewater discharge. Microplastic biomes, pharmaceutical residues, drugs of abuse, heavy metals, agrochemicals, and personal care products are ubiquitous in the aquatic ecosystem of Winam Gulf. These pollutants are known to alter microbial assemblages in aquatic ecosystems with far-reaching ramification including a calamitous consequence to human health. Indeed, some of these pollutants have been associated with human cancers and antimicrobial resistance. There is a paucity of data on the microbial profiles of this important but heavily polluted aquatic ecosystem. The current study sought to investigate the metagenomic profiles of microbial assemblages in the Winam Gulf ecosystem. Water and sediment samples were collected from several locations within the study sites. Total genomic DNA pooled from all sampling sites was extracted and analyzed by whole-genome shotgun sequencing. Analyses revealed three major kingdoms: bacteria, archaea and eukaryotes belonging to 3 phyla, 13 classes, 14 families, 9 orders, 14 genera, and 10 species. Proteobacteria, Betaproteobacteria, Comamonadaceae, Burkholdariales, and Arcobacter were the dominated phyla, class, family, order, genera, and species, respectively. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes indicated the highest number of genes involved in metabolism. The presence of carbohydrate metabolism genes and enzymes was used to infer organic pollutions from sewage and agricultural runoffs. Similarly, the presence of xylene and nutrotoluene degradation genes and enzyme was used to infer industrial pollution into the lake. Drug metabolism genes lend credence to the possibility of pharmaceutical pollutants in water. Taken together, there is a clear indication of massive pollution. In addition, carbohydrate-active enzymes were the most abundant and included genes in glycoside hydrolases. Shotgun metagenomic analyses conveyed an understanding of the microbial communities of the massively polluted aquatic ecosystem of Winam Gulf, Lake Vicoria, Kenya. The current study documents the presence of multiclass pollutants in Lake Victoria and reveals information that might be useful for a potential bioremediation strategy using the native microbial communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

P-01.1-08 Melanoma therapies compromise signaling processes in the vascular endothelium S. Bromberger 1, M.R. Larsen 2, K. Schossleitner 1 1 Skin & Endothelium Research Division (SERD), Department of Dermatology, Medical Univers... Melanoma and other malignancies often bear mutations in the MAPK pathway - most commonly BRAF SP V600E sp , which contributes to uncontrolled proliferation and survival of tumor cells. The disruption of communication between tumor cells and TAMs could be the base of an efficient anti-cancer strategy to prevent tumor progression. Adamecz 1, P. Bicskei 1, H. Árva 1, N. Igaz 1, É. Veres 2, A. Rónavári 3, A. Gácse... 1 Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary, 2... Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) - as a result of re-programming driven by tumor and other stromal cells - can create and maintain an immunosuppressive environment and promote tumor malignancy. In tumour cells, ER stress is caused by their high degree of translation and metabolism as well as the tumour microenvironment. [Extracted from the article]

Because BA produced by I Clostridium i could not be detected in soil, we used an indirect approach to evaluate I in situ i BA biosynthesis in response to rice root exudates by examining the expression of bacterial BA biosynthesis-related genes, I butyrate kinase i ( I buk i ) and I phosphotransbutyrase i ( I ptb i ; Fig. Keywords: butyric acid; Clostridium; induced systemic resistance (ISR); plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR); rice; volatiles EN butyric acid Clostridium induced systemic resistance (ISR) plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) rice volatiles 1755 1761 7 05/02/23 20230601 NES 230601 Introduction I Clostridium i species (phylum Firmicutes) are gram-positive endospore-forming anaerobic bacteria that inhabit diverse environments including animal and human gut, sewage, lake sediments, and paddy soil. Rice seeds immersed in a Clostridium spp. suspension were sown on Murashige and Skoog (MS) agar medium containing Clostridium spp. 14-d-old seedlings were inoculated with Xoo (OD600 = 1.0) by leaf clipping method using scissors. These results are consistent with the relative abundance and percent of I Clostridium i present in total read counts, indicating that I Clostridium i species were enriched in the rhizosphere and were less frequent in the endosphere and bulk soil (Figs 1e, S2a-e). [Extracted from the article]

For the majority of plant species in the world, we know little about their functional ecology, and not even one of the most basic traits—the species' growth habit. To fill the gap in availability of compiled plant growth‐form data, we have assembled what is, to our knowledge, the largest global database on growth‐form as a plant trait. We have, with extensive error checking and data synthesis, assembled a growth‐form database from 163 data sources for 143,616 vascular plant species from 445 different plant families. This is 38.6% of the currently accepted vascular plant diversity. For our database, we have chosen seven categories to cover the majority of the diversity in plant growth forms: aquatic plants, epiphytes, hemiepiphytes, climbing plants, parasitic plants, holo‐mycoheterotrophs, and freestanding plants. These categories were used because we were able to reconcile the wealth of existing definitions and types of growth‐form information available globally to them clearly and unequivocally, and because they are complementary with existing databases. Plants in the database were designated into a category if their adult growth form fit the criterion. We make available two databases: first, the complete data set, including species for which there is currently conflicting information, and second, a consensus data set, where all available information supports one categorization. Of the plant species for which we found information, 103,138 (72%) are freestanding, 21,110 (15%) are epiphytes, and 4,046 (3%) are parasites. Our growth‐form data can be used to produce useful summary statistics by clade. For example, current data suggests that half of pteridophytes are epiphytic, that all hemiepiphytes are eudicots, and that there are no parasitic monocots, gymnosperms, or pteridophytes. Growth form is a crucial piece of fundamental plant‐trait data with implications for each species' ecology, evolution, and conservation, and thus this data set will be useful for a range of basic and applied questions across these areas of research. No copyright or proprietary restrictions are associated with the use of this data set, other than citation of the present Data Paper. A static version of this dataset is provided as Supporting Information, and a living and updating version of the dataset is available in a GitHub repository. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fermented dairy products provide nutrients in our diet, some of which are produced by the action of microorganisms during fermentation. These products can be populated by a diverse microbiota that impacts the organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics foods as well as human health. Acidification is carried out by starter lactic acid bacteria (LAB) whereas other LAB, moulds, and yeasts become dominant during ripening and contribute to the development of aroma and texture in dairy products. Probiotics are generally part of the nonstarter microbiota, and their use has been extended in recent years. Fermented dairy products can contain beneficial compounds, which are produced by the metabolic activity of their microbiota (vitamins, conjugated linoleic acid, bioactive peptides, and gamma-aminobutyric acid, among others). Some microorganisms can also release toxic compounds, the most notorious being biogenic amines and aflatoxins. Though generally considered safe, fermented dairy products can be contaminated by pathogens. If proliferation occurs during manufacture or storage, they can cause sporadic cases or outbreaks of disease. This paper provides an overview on the current state of different aspects of the research on microorganisms present in dairy products in the light of their positive or negative impact on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Diarrhea caused by bacterial pathogens such as Shigella spp. is one of the prominent public health concerns. The evolution of vast antibiotic resistance by these pathogens, leading to failure in the infections eradication, has made an impetus to seek and develop novel approaches. Recently, some alternative therapies such as phage therapy have been investigated. Bacteriophages are viruses that target specific bacterial species. The objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic effect of phages obtained from hospital sewage against Shigella sonnei (S. sonnei) ATCC® 9290 and S. flexneri ATCC 12022 standard and clinical strains. Methods. Four various lytic bacteriophages were isolated from animal fecal and sewage samples and propagated using S. sonnei and S. flexneri as host organisms. The phages' morphology was determined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The lytic potential and host specificity of isolated phages were evaluated using double layer plaque assay and spot test. Moreover, bacterial turbidity values were evaluated in coculture with phages in the Luria Bertani (LB) medium for 24 hours at time intervals of 30 min. Results. Phage cocktails (Shs1, Shs2, Shf1, and Shf2) exhibited higher antimicrobial activity than single phage application against S. sonnei and S. flexneri standard strains. The phages belonged to Podoviridae and Myoviridae families according to TEM-assisted morphological features analysis. In addition, the phages exhibited host specificity using the spot test against 18 Shigella clinical isolates. Conclusion. In this study, phage cocktail of Podoviridae and Myoviridae families from sewage conferred substantial antibacterial effects against S. sonnei and S. flexneri. However, single phage effects were unstable in the LB coculture. Moreover, the phages had host specificity using the spot test performed against Shigella spp. clinical isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main bacterial diseases of chilli pepper is bacterial leaf spot which causes yield loss due to damaged and unsaleable fruits (Utami et al., [6]). Keywords: bacterial pathogen EN bacterial pathogen 1 3 3 09/28/23 20230701 NES 230701 Chilli pepper ( I Capsicum i spp.) is an important crop with increasing global consumption; the top three chilli pepper-producing countries are China, Mexico and Indonesia (FAOSTAT, [1]). [Extracted from the article]

Immunoglobulins (Igs) in mucosal secretions contribute to immune homeostasis by limiting access of microbial and environmental antigens to the body proper, maintaining the integrity of the epithelial barrier and shaping the composition of the commensal microbiota. The emergence of IgM in cartilaginous fish represented the primordial mucosal Ig, which is expressed in all higher vertebrates. Expansion and diversification of the mucosal Ig repertoire led to the emergence of IgT in bony fishes, IgX in amphibians, and IgA in reptiles, birds, and mammals. Parallel evolution of cellular receptors for the constant (Fc) regions of Igs provided mechanisms for their transport and immune effector functions. The most ancient of these Fc receptors is the polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR), which first appeared in an ancestor of bony fishes. The pIgR transports polymeric IgM, IgT, IgX, and IgA across epithelial cells into external secretions. Diversification and refinement of the structure of mucosal Igs during tetrapod evolution were paralleled by structural changes in pIgR, culminating in the multifunctional secretory IgA complex in mammals. In this paper, evidence is presented that the mutualistic relationship between the commensal microbiota and the vertebrate host provided the driving force for coevolution of mucosal Igs and pIgR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]