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Ambrosia beetles of the Euwallacea fornicatus species complex are emerging tree pests with a broad host range including important agricultural crops. Native to Southeast Asia, these species were introduced into various countries, where they cause considerable damage to many tree species. Here we report several outbreaks of E. fornicatus s.l. in Europe. The first individuals were found in 2017 in a palm house of a botanical garden in Poznan (Poland) whereas in 2020 an outbreak was detected in a tropical greenhouse in Merano (Italy). In 2021, two additional outbreaks were detected in two greenhouses in Germany, in Erfurt and Berlin. For both cases in Germany it was possible to trace back the invasion to a distributor of exotic plants in the Netherlands where several infested plants were detected. Molecular analyses show that individuals from Poland and Italy are genetically identical but belong to a different mitochondrial clade than individuals in Germany which are identical to most individuals of two greenhouses in the Netherlands. Moreover, in the two greenhouses in the Netherlands we found beetles that belong to another haplotype of E. fornicatus and two haplotypes of E. perbrevis, a species in the E. fornicatus complex, which has not been previously intercepted in Europe. Our study provides novel insights into the invasion history of E. fornicatus and the eradication measures in Europe. Considering the potential of introduction and establishment of Euwallacea ambrosia beetles, particular attention should be paid to monitor the presence of these pests in tropical greenhouses across Europe.

The article presents a comparison of the results of calculations of wind energy resources based on measurements at meteorological stations and on the basis of the results of the COSMO meteorological model in three basic resolutions in the period of 2011-2019. The aim of the study was to compare the results of calculations of wind energy resources obtained on the basis of measurements at meteorological stations and on the basis of analyzes resulting from the work of meteorological numerical models, operating at various spatial scales. It was found that the use of archived results of analyzes of meteorological models, especially those in high resolution, allows for such an assessment in a climatological sense in the same way as the results of measurements at meteorological stations used for this purpose. For investment purposes, calculations of wind energy resources at higher altitudes were also carried out, so that the results could also be applied to high wind turbines – those of higher power.

Excessive intake of fructose is a significant contributor in the development of hypertension and pathogenesis of cardiometabolic diseases. We previously showed that dietary inulin can prevent fructose-induced hypertension in rats. Nevertheless, molecular mechanisms of both fructose and inulin in aorta remain unknown. The aim of this study was to identify global transcriptomic changes in aorta in rats on fructose-based diet or partial substitution of dietary fructose with inulin.At the end of study periods, aortas were isolated, RNA extracted, and transcriptomics performed using microarrays followed by in-dept bioinformatic analyses. We observed that fructose-based diet affected the expression of over 1700 genes involved in the regulation of vascular functions, cell signaling, and cellular metabolism. Partial substitution of dietary fructose with inulin affected the expression of over 1300 genes regulating endothelial and vascular functions, including relaxin signaling pathway, immune/inflammatory response, or cellular metabolism. Bioinformatic analyses revealed transcription factors, such as Junb or Nr4a2, and miRNAs, such as miR-206, miR-137 or miR-375, as potential transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulators of identified differentially expressed genes. Genes identified following both diets are associated with development of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, immune system diseases and metabolic diseases. Moreover, a negative correlation between the expression profiles obtained by fructose-based diet and that by partial substitution of dietary fructose with inulin was observed.Our study showed that fructose can significantly impact global transcriptomic profile in aorta, changes that can be counteracted by inulin and which present relevant molecular mechanisms underlying its anti-hypertensive property.

Th e first Staphylinidae species described, named and classified in the 10th edition of “Systema Naturae” by Carl Linné (Linnaeus) was Staphylinus hirtus, i.e. presently Emus hirtus (Linnaeus, 1758). Along with 18 other species, classified by the author to one genus Staphylinus, these taxa provided a certain foundation for the further classification of Staphylinidae. At present these species are classified to 15 genera, among others from the subfamilies Staphylininae (genera Emus, Ontholestes, Creophilus, Staphylinus, Philonthus, Quedius), as well as Oxyporinae, Paederinae, Tachyporinae, Steninae, Aleocharinae and Omaliinae. Carl Linnaeus in the next years (1761 and 1767) described seven other species. In the period from mid-18th century to the end of the 20th century (specifically in the years 1758–2000) a total of 45 700 Staphylinidae species were described, which accounted for 14% of all beetles and 5% of all animals. In turn, only within the 20 years of the 21st century the number of described Staphylinidae species increased to 63 000, which makes this family of beetles one of the most speciose families worldwide, not only among insects, but all animals.

The sludge generated from wastewater treatment facilities contains high nutrients and is characterized by high heating values. Thus, the sludge enriched with organic matter and nutrients is a potential candidate for its application as fertilizers and an alternate energy feedstock. Nowadays, energy independence contributes to the economic stability of the country, and therefore the search for alternate energy sources is an acute issue. This paper presents a case study on using sewage sludge as an energy feedstock in Poland. The physicochemical characteristics of the sewage sludge are presented. The fuel properties of sewage sludge generated from different waste water treatment plant (WWTP) are summarized. The calorific value of sewage sludge generated in Poland is insufficient for effective use as an energy raw material, therefore, energy potential of mixture of sludge with other waste have been studied. The general trend of sewage sludge formation and the quantitative forecast for the future showed that in 2020, compared to 2012, sludge accumulation increased by 6.9%, but compared to 2019 - decreased by 3%. From 2012 to 2020 the average, sewage sludge accumulation increased annually by 0.8%. This demonstrates the heterogeneity of waste streams for the production of alternative fuels and a modest increase in sewage sludge production in the coming years. This made it possible to prepare several options for the further development of research in the field of developing technologies for obtaining alternative energy. Also this study will help the prospective researchers understand sewage sludge generation and its use as energy feedstock.

Gnathotrichus materiarius (Fitch, 1858) is an alien ambrosia beetle from North America, that has been spreading across Europe since the 1930s. The species infests coniferous trees, excavating galleries in sapwood. However, to date very few studies have predicted changes in ambrosia beetle habitat suitability under changing climate conditions. To fill that gap in the current knowledge, we used the MaxEnt algorithm to estimate areas potentially suitable for this species in Europe, both under current climate conditions and those forecasted for the years 2050 and 2070. Our analyses showed areas where the species has not been reported, though the climatic conditions are suitable. Models for the forecasted conditions predicted an increase in suitable habitats. Due to the wide range of host trees, the species is likely to spread through the Balkans, the Black Sea and Caucasus region, Baltic countries, the Scandinavian Peninsula, and Ukraine. As a technical pest of coniferous sapwood, it can cause financial losses due to deterioration in quality of timber harvested in such regions. Our results will be helpful for the development of a climate-change-integrated management strategy to mitigate potential adverse effects.

The main goal of the work was an attempt to compare the free and commercial photogrammetry software for processing pictures taken with a camera drone, a traditional digital camera and a smartphone. Due to a wide range of programs on the market, four were selected for comparison (Agisoft Metashape, DroneDeploy, VisualSfM, COLMAP). Their brief description was presented, and then the photos were processed in each of them. Three sets of photographs were used for the processing (part of a residential area, photos of a building, and photos of a tree trunk). As a result, the capabilities of selected applications were presented on the basis of various input data. Not every program was able to deliver all the desired products. Moreover, they differ depending on the software. Commercial applications have more functionalities. On the other hand, open-source solutions allow for the development of algorithms. Working in any environment had its own characteristics. The selected applications were compared on the basis of the processing and the results obtained. Due to many aspects of their evaluation, it turned out that the research topic was very extensive. Moreover, it was found that it is very difficult to make an objective statement of the tested programs, because the same program, depending on the user's needs, capabilities and knowledge, can be scored differently.

By analyzing the Biała Podlaska County resources of the economic infrastructure (distilleries, diaries, fruit and vegetable processing and meat processing factories), the possibilities of the biomass obtaining and creating the biogas plants basing on the agri-food industry waste, were estimated. The stocking of animals was the basis for the assessment of manure and slurry resources that can be subjected to the methane fermentation process. On the basis of the data concerning the surface of the wastelands, located on the Biała Podlaska County territory, the possibilities of the biomass from special crops, were specified. In the Biała Podlaska County, we calculated that there are possibilities of the biomass obtaining for the biogas production: from livestock production (1 475 272 GJ/year), maize cropping in marginal lands (172 875 GJ/year) and wastes and by-products from food industry (51 081 GJ/year). The estimated potential of biogas allows for the construction of several agricultural biogas plants with a capacity of 1 MWe each, often built in Poland. The usage of the identified resources enabling the improvement of the energetic safety and also can contribute to sustainable development of the rural areas and the agriculture.

A new computing cluster has been operating since 2016 at the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management – National Research Institute. Increasing computing power enabled the implementation of ensemble prediction system forecasts in the operational mode and the use of a new computer for research purposes. As part of the priority project on “Study of Disturbances in the Representation of Modeling Uncertainty in Ensemble Development” and the earlier project entitled “COSMO Towards Ensemble in Km in Our Countries), implemented in the Working Group 7 (Predictability and Ensemble Methods) as part of the COSMO modeling consortium, specific studies were carried out to test ensemble forecasts. This research concerned the impact of variability of physical fields characterizing the soil surface (a selected parameter determining evaporation from the soil surface and soil surface temperature) using various methods of perturbation. Numerical experiments were completed for the warm period (from June to September) 2013.

The integrated soil tillage developed in the Institute of Biosystem Engineering is based on a single pass of basic tillage, secondary tillage and sowing or planting. The integrated soil tillage allows a relatively high mechanical strength of the soil. An important element of the technology is the use of tillage roller sets which significantly influence the obtained aggregate structure and its eolic resistance. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of roller speed in various soil moisture conditions on the aggregate structure of the soil arable layer. The research was carried out on the production field in Dziećmierowo, Wielkopolska Voivodeship, Poland, on medium soil with mechanical composition of light clay. During the research, cultivation sets with two units of Campell + Croskill platelet and studded rollera were used. For two actual soil moisture levels and five speeds within the range of 3-7 km/h, the influence of unit tillage energy at three levels of the cultivating layer (0-5 cm, 5-10 cm and 10-15 cm) was analyzed on the aggregate structure of soil and the content of aggregates with the highest resistance to wind erosion. The results of the work lead to conclusions it is possible to use the working speed and overloading of rollers set in integrated soil tillage trailer to manipulate the process of forming an optimal, erosion-resistant soil layer. It should be pointed out, however, that for even very similar types of roller sets the process control in different soil moisture conditions may be different and requires individual test.

The incorporation of Lucanus cervus (L.) in Annex 2 of the EU Habitats Directive imposed on EU member countries the obligation to prepare protection plans and undertake adequate measures aimed at the preservation of this species. A necessary precondition for their implementation was connected with the identification of current localities of L. cervus. This paper presents the distribution of L. cervus localities in Poland, identified on the basis of a survey conducted in the areas administered by the State Forests. Habitat preferences for the selection of biotopes by stag beetles were evaluated in terms of forest-site types. This will facilitate effective protection of L. cervus by indicating potential biotopes for this species, particularly in areas with high abundance. The survey showed the presence of L. cervus in 176 localities distributed in 47 forest districts. Most of them were found in three main areas comprising forests in the areas of Zielona Góra, Wrocław and the Świętokrzyskie Mts. They constitute large-scale refuges. In 98% of cases the development of L. cervus was associated with oaks Quercus robur and Quercus petraea. Other host plants included Fagus sylvatica and Acer pseudoplatanus. The age of trees colonised by stag beetles ranged from 70 to 248 years, 134 years on average. Lucanus cervus was most frequently found in deciduous mesic forest sites (41% of localities) and deciduous mixed mesic forest sites (24% of localities). Over 90% of recorded localities are situated in forested areas, understood to include stands, residual trees and stumps, as well as localities at forest edges and along roads in the vicinity of forests.

The biosynthesis of subunits of rhizobial exopolysaccharides is dependent on glycosyltransferases, which are usually encoded by large gene clusters. PssA is a member of a large family of phosphoglycosyl transferases catalyzing the transfer of a phosphosugar moiety to polyprenol phosphate; thus, it can be considered as priming glycosyltransferase commencing synthesis of the EPS repeating units in Rhizobium leguminosarum. The comprehensive analysis of PssA protein features performed in this work confirmed its specificity for UDP-glucose and provided evidence that PssA is a monotopic inner membrane protein with a reentrant membrane helix rather than a transmembrane segment. The bacterial two-hybrid system screening revealed interactions of PssA with some GTs involved in the EPS octasaccharide synthesis. The distribution of differentially expressed genes in the transcriptome of the ΔpssA mutant into various functional categories indicated complexity of cell response to the deletion, which can mostly be attributed to the lack of exopolysaccharide and downstream effects caused by such deficiency. The block in the EPS biosynthesis at the pssA step, potentially leading to an increased pool of UDP-glucose, is likely to be filtered through to other pathways, and thus the absence of EPS may indirectly affect the expression of proteins involved in these pathways.

The work presents the results of research on erosion and landform changes of a bottom of a dry erosive-accumulation valley in Elizówka in 1958, 1970 and 2016. The changes have been examined with the use of geodetic topographic surveys techniques. The research field was a 480-metres long part of the valley bottom. The topographic surveys in 1958 and 1970 were conducted with longitudinal (parallel to the bottom of the valley) and cross (every 20 metres) sections method. In 2016 the modern measuring devices were used. All the results, together with coordinates of points and historical data were converted into GIS spatial layer. The altitude values formed the input data for interpolation of rasters showing changes of the topography in three periods. Three TIN models were also developed to distinguish erosion and accumulation zones plus the quantity of eroded and accumulated material. The valley on the majority of its length has been raised and has changed from V-shaped into U-shaped. Accumulation of the soil material led to levelling the bottom. Accumulation concentrates along a flow line, while soil washout mainly at the bottom of slopes. The thickest sediment layers were observed in the lowest part. For the whole 1958-2016 period a total of 3470 m3 soil material has been deposited on the area of about 1.62 ha, while in the same time only 130 m3 has been eroded (from 0.22 ha).

Background: Resources of dying and dead trees, decaying fragments of stems, stumps and branches, i.e., coarse woody debris (CWD), are an important structural element of biocenoses and are drivers of biodiversity. The aim of this study was to describe assemblages of saproxylic beetles in pine stands of western Poland in view of dead wood resources. We present faunistic (species identity) and quantitative (species and individual counts) data from two types of stands: 1. unmanaged pine stands, in which no trees have been extracted for over 30 years, with processes connected with tree dying and self-thinning of stands being undisturbed, 2. managed pine stands, in which routine tending operations extracting trees are performed in accordance with forest management plans and naturally dying trees are removed in the course of tending and sanitary logging, Methods: Beetles were captured in the years 2013–2014 using window flight traps. Assemblages of saproxylic beetles were assessed based on the indices of dominance, diversity (the Shannon–Weiner index), and species richness (Margalef’s index) as well as the estimated habitat fidelity index, feeding habits, and zoogeographical distribution. Similarity between the assemblages was evaluated applying cluster analysis. Dependence between dead wood resources and the diversity and species richness indices were analysed, Results: A total of 2006 individuals classified to 216 species were captured. Assemblages show considerable similarity on the local scale. Higher values of species diversity indicators were observed in unmanaged stands, in which no sanitation cuttings are performed, Conclusions: The decision to refrain from sanitation logging in pine monocultures results in increased CWD resources, which nevertheless does not lead to a marked increase in the values of biodiversity indicators. Unmanaged stands were characterised by a high share of zoophagous, mycetophagous, and saproxylic species. In contrast, managed stands were characterised by a high share of xylophagous beetles.

Ambrosia beetles of the Euwallacea fornicatus species complex are emerging tree pests with a broad host range including important agricultural crops. Native to Southeast Asia, these species were introduced into various countries, where they cause considerable damage to many tree species. Here we report several outbreaks of E. fornicatus s.l. in Europe. The first individuals were found in 2017 in a palm house of a botanical garden in Poznan (Poland) whereas in 2020 an outbreak was detected in a tropical greenhouse in Merano (Italy). In 2021, two additional outbreaks were detected in two greenhouses in Germany, in Erfurt and Berlin. For the latter cases it was possible to trace back the invasion to a distributor of exotic plants in the Netherlands where several infected plants were detected. Molecular analysis show that individuals from Poland and Italy are genetically identical but belong to a different mitochondrial clade than individuals in Germany which are identical to most individuals of two greenhouses in the Netherlands. Moreover, in the two greenhouses in the Netherlands we found beetles that belong to another haplotype of E. fornicatus and two haplotypes of E. perbrevis, a species in the E. fornicatus complex, which has not been previously intercepted in Europe. Our study provides novel insights into the invasion history of E. fornicatus and the first eradication measures in Europe. Considering the high potential of introduction and establishment of Euwallacea ambrosia beetles, particular attention should be paid to monitor the presence of these pests in greenhouses across Europe.

In this study, functional characterization of the mgl2 gene located near the Pss-I exopolysaccharide biosynthesis region in Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii TA1 is described. The hypothetical protein encoded by the mgl2 gene was found to be similar to methyltransferases (MTases). Protein homology and template-based modeling facilitated prediction of the Mgl2 structure, which greatly resembled class I MTases with a S-adenosyl-L-methionine–binding cleft. The Mgl2 protein was engaged in exopolysaccharide, but not lipopolysaccharide, synthesis. The mgl2 deletion mutant produced exopolysaccharide comprised of only low molecular weight fractions, while overexpression of mgl2 caused overproduction of exopolysaccharide with a normal low to high molecular weight ratio. The deletion of the mgl2 gene resulted in disturbances in biofilm formation and a slight increase in motility in minimal medium. Red clover (Trifolium pratense) inoculated with the mgl2 mutant formed effective nodules, and the appearance of the plants indicated active nitrogen fixation. The mgl2 gene was preceded by an active and strong promoter. Mgl2 was defined as an integral membrane protein and formed homodimers in vivo; however, it did not interact with Pss proteins encoded within the Pss-I region. The results are discussed in the context of the possible involvement of the newly described potential MTase in various metabolic traits, such as the exopolysaccharide synthesis and motility that are important for rhizobial saprophytic and symbiotic relationships.

Poland is under threat of potential accidents in nuclear power plants located in its close vicinity, in almost all neighboring countries. Moreover, there are plans to establish a new nuclear power plant in Polish coast. In this paper the analysis of atmospheric transport of radioactive material released during a potential accident in the future nuclear power plant is presented. In the first part of study transport of radioactivity as seen from the long time perspective is analyzed. This involves trajectory analysis as a tool for describing the statistics of air pollution transport pattern and screening the meteorological situations for episode studies. Large sets of meteorological data for selected episodes were stored as a result of this process. Estimation of risk includes both analysis of the consequences and probability analysis of an occurrence of such situation. Episodes then were comprehensively studied in the second phase of the study, using the Eulerian dispersion model for simulation of atmospheric transport of pollutants. This study has proven that the time needed for reaction in case of (hypothetical) accident is enormously short.

The development of the side arm edge of the valley-gully in Gałkowice village in the Dwikozy commune (the Opatówka catchment in the Sandomierz Upland) was investigated during the period from 2002 to 2017. An increase of fragmentation of gully edge was found. Most of pre-existing erosive indents increased in size (maximum of 2.8 m - about 0.2 m per year). An increase in the area of the gully by 145 m2 was found. As a result, the boundary of plow tillage has shifted to an average of 1.5 to 2 meters (maximum 3.8 m), which resulted in a loss of 545 m2 of adjacent arable land. As the main reason for the development of the analyzed section of the gully, meltwater flows were considered.

Legionella micdadei is responsible for community- or nosocomial-acquired pneumonia as well as the influenza-like illness Pontiac fever. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of L. micdadei to utilize extracellular choline for phosphatidylcholine (PC) synthesis and its consequences for the phospholipid composition of its membrane system and the interaction with the human LL-37 peptide. Comparative analysis of the PC content using isotopic labeling revealed that in presence of exogenous choline 98% of the total PC was synthesized via the Pcs pathway while the remaining 2% were generated via the PE-methylation (PmtA) pathway. PC species were to a greater extent defined by the Pcs pathway in the outer membrane than in the inner membrane. While no major changes in the bacterial lipid content were observed using

The research was carried out in the years 2008-2011 in the loess catchment area in Wielkopole in the Lublin Upland. The purpose of the work was to determine the intensity of water soils erosion and the size of the outflow beyond the water catchment and the selected constituents of matter contained in it. After surface water runoff, quantitative and qualitative inventory of erosion damage was carried out. The quantity of waters from the catchment was also measured, from which samples were taken in order to determine the concentration of soil suspension of nitrogen and its forms as well as phosphorus and potassium. The height and intensity of precipitation as well as the thickness of the snow cover were also monitored and observations of its melting were carried out. The research results prove that the condition of the plant cover determines the amount of erosive damage. Spring crops and root crops poorly protect the soil from erosion, while winter cereals, grassland and forests protect good. The average annual erosive damage in the catchment was: rills - 189 m3km-2, surface runoff - 153 m3km-2, deposits - 128 m3km-2, and soil washout - 0.335 mm. The outflow of water outside the catchment is on average correlated with the amount of precipitation (correlation coefficient r = 49). On the other hand, a very high correlation (r = 0.85) was found between the outflow of water and soil from the catchment. On average, during the year outflow from the catchment were: 7.1 mm of water, 44.85 Mgkm-2 of the soil, 127.2 kgkm-2 N-Nog, 18.2 kgkm-2 P and 145.6 kgkm-2 K.

International audience; AIMS: Dysmetabolic iron overload syndrome (DIOS) is common but the clinical relevance of iron overload is not understood. Macrophages are central cells in iron homeostasis and inflammation. We hypothesized that iron overload in DIOS could affect the phenotype of monocytes and impair macrophage gene expression. METHODS: This study compared 20 subjects with DIOS to 20 subjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS) without iron overload, and 20 healthy controls. Monocytes were phenotyped by Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) and differentiated into anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages in the presence of IL-4. The expression of 38 genes related to inflammation, iron metabolism and M2 phenotype was assessed by real-time PCR. RESULTS: FACS showed no difference between monocytes across the three groups. The macrophagic response to IL-4-driven differentiation was altered in four of the five genes of M2 phenotype (MRC1, F13A1, ABCA1, TGM2 but not FABP4), in DIOS vs Mets and controls demonstrating an impaired M2 polarization. The expression profile of inflammatory genes was not different in DIOS vs MetS. Several genes of iron metabolism presented a higher expression in DIOS vs MetS: SCL11A2 (a free iron transporter, +76 %, p = 0.04), SOD1 (an antioxidant enzyme, +27 %, p = 0.02), and TFRC (the receptor 1 of transferrin, +59 %, p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: In DIOS, macrophage polarization toward the M2 alternative phenotype is impaired but not associated with a pro-inflammatory profile. The up regulation of transferrin receptor 1 (TFRC) in DIOS macrophages suggests an adaptive role that may limit iron toxicity in DIOS.

A white rot fungus Cerrena unicolor has been identified as an important source of laccase, unfortunately regulation of this enzyme genes expression is poorly understood. Using 1D and 2D PAGE and LC-MS/MS, laccase isoenzymes were investigated in the liquid filtrate of C. unicolor culture. The level of expression of laccase genes was measured using qPCR. The elevated concentrations of copper and manganese in the medium caused greatest change in genes expression and three laccase transcripts were significantly affected after culture temperature was decreased from 28 to 4 °C or increased to 40 °C. The small differences in the PAGE band intensities of individual laccase proteins were also observed, indicating that given compound affect particular laccase’s transcript. Analyses of laccase-specific activity, at all tested conditions, showed the increased activities as compared to the control, suggesting that enzyme is regulated at the post-translational stage. We observed that the aspartic protease purified from C. unicolor, significantly stimulate laccase activity. Moreover, electrochemical analysis of protease-treated laccase sample had 5 times higher redox peaks. The obtained results indicate that laccases released by C. unicolor are regulated at transcriptional, translational, and at the post-translational steps of gene expression helping fungus adapt to the environmental changes.

The free-living Gram-negative bacterium Oligotropha carboxidovorans (formerly: Pseudomonas carboxydovorans), isolated from wastewater, is able to live in aerobic and, facultatively, in autotrophic conditions, utilizing carbon monoxide or hydrogen as a source of energy. The structure of O. carboxidovorans lipid A, a hydrophobic part of lipopolysaccharide, was studied using NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF MS) techniques. It was demonstrated that the lipid A backbone is composed of two d-GlcpN3N residues connected by a β-(1→6) glycosidic linkage, substituted by galacturonic acids (d-GalpA) at C-1 and C-4’ positions. Both diaminosugars are symmetrically substituted by 3-hydroxy fatty acids (12:0(3-OH) and 18:0(3-OH)). Ester-linked secondary acyl residues (i.e., 18:0, and 26:0(25-OH) and a small amount of 28:0(27-OH)) are located in the distal part of lipid A. These very long-chain hydroxylated fatty acids (VLCFAs) were found to be almost totally esterified at the (ω-1)-OH position with malic acid. Similarities between the lipid A of O. carboxidovorans and Mesorhizobium loti, Rhizobium leguminosarum, Caulobacter crescentus as well as Aquifex pyrophylus were observed and discussed from the perspective of the genomic context of these bacteria.

International audience; BACKGROUND This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of a long-term high-fat diet on lipids and lipoproteins composition in thoracic duct lymph in pigs. MATERIAL AND METHODS We examined lymph taken from the thoracic duct from 24 female white sharp-ear pigs, divided into 3 experimental groups fed different diets for 12 months: (a) the control group, fed the standard balanced diet; (b) the HFD group, fed an unbalanced, high-fat diet, and (c) the reversal diet group (RD), fed an unbalanced, high-fat diet for 9 months and then a standard balanced diet for 3 months. RESULTS Lymph analysis after 12 months of fixed diets revealed significantly higher concentration of proteins in the HFD group in comparison to the control and RD groups. Examination of lymph lipoproteins fractions showed that the high-fat diet in the HFD group in comparison to control group caused an increase in cholesterol, phospholipids, and proteins content within HDL and chylomicrons. There were also more proteins within HDL in the HFD group in comparison to the RD group and more triglycerides within chylomicrons in the HFD group in comparison to the control group. CONCLUSIONS A long-term high-fat diet resulted in changed structure of HDL and chylomicrons in the thoracic duct lymph. Alterations in HDL composition suggest that a high-fat diet enhances reverses cholesterol transport. Changes in chylomicrons structure show the adaptation to more intense transport of dietary fat from the intestine to the liver under the influence of a high-fat diet. Reversal to a standard balanced diet had the opposite effects.

The aim of this paper was to determine the energetic and economic aspects of a 499 kW power biogas plant powered by substrates in three different scenarios: typical arable crops (maize silage), dedicated energy crops (sorghum silage) and agricultural waste biomass (maize straw). The obtained results show that methane productivity of tested substrates is closely connected with its dry matter content– which was especially significative in case of pig slurry (only 1.30 $\mathrm{m}^{3}\mathrm{C}\mathrm{H}_{4}$/Mg of fresh matter). In consequences methane productivities of tested substrates had strong influence on its masses needed for feeding planned biogas plant (from 11,250 Mg to 20,430 Mg). The research have shown the big differences of the substrates costs in analyzed scenarios: the most costly scenario II was over 180 kEuro more expensive than III scenario. Taking into account 15 years period of guarantied subsidies in Poland, this difference can reach in total 2.71 mln Euro.

Light influences developmental pathways in fungi. Recent transcriptomic and biochemical analyses have demonstrated that light influences the metabolism of a white-rot basidiomycete Cerrena unicolor. However, the expression profile of genes involved in the growth and development, or micromorphological observations of the mycelium in response to variable lighting and culturing media, have not performed. We aim to reveal the effect of light and nutrients on C. unicolor growth and a potential relationship between the culture medium and lighting conditions on fungus micromorphological structures. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed for morphological observations of C. unicolor mycelium cultivated in red, blue, green, and white light and darkness on mineral and sawdust media. A comprehensive analysis of C. unicolor differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was employed to find global changes in the expression profiles of genes putatively involved in light-dependent morphogenesis. Both light and nutrients influenced C. unicolor growth and development. Considerable differences in the micromorphology of the mycelia were found, which were partially reflected in the functional groups of DEGs observed in the fungus transcriptomes. A complex cross-interaction of nutritional and environmental signals on C. unicolor growth and morphology was suggested. The results are a promising starting point for further investigations of fungus photobiology.

Light influences developmental pathways in fungi. Recent transcriptomic and biochemical analyses have demonstrated that light influences the metabolism of a white-rot basidiomycete Cerrena unicolor. However, the expression profile of genes involved in the growth and development, or micromorphological observations of the mycelium in response to variable lighting and culturing media, have not performed. We aim to reveal the effect of light and nutrients on C. unicolor growth and a potential relationship between the culture medium and lighting conditions on fungus micromorphological structures. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed for morphological observations of C. unicolor mycelium cultivated in red, blue, green, and white light and darkness on mineral and sawdust media. A comprehensive analysis of C. unicolor differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was employed to find global changes in the expression profiles of genes putatively involved in light-dependent morphogenesis. Both light and nutrients influenced C. unicolor growth and development. Considerable differences in the micromorphology of the mycelia were found, which were partially reflected in the functional groups of DEGs observed in the fungus transcriptomes. A complex cross-interaction of nutritional and environmental signals on C. unicolor growth and morphology was suggested. The results are a promising starting point for further investigations of fungus photobiology.

International audience; Background & aims: Type I hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) and dysmetabolic iron overload syndrome (DIOS) are the two most prevalent iron overload diseases. Although many food components, particularly polyphenols, reduce iron bioavailability, there is no clinically validated nutritional strategy to reduce food-iron absorption in patients with these diseases. We aimed to determine whether supplementation with 100 mg of procyanidins during a meal reduces dietary iron absorption in patients with HH or DIOS.Methods: 20 HH and 20 DIOS patients were enrolled in a double-blind three-period crossover randomized study. Basal serum iron level was measured following an overnight fast. Each patient consumed a standardized test iron-rich meal containing 43 mg of iron with two capsules of placebo or procyanidin supplementation. Each period was separated by a 3-day wash-out period. The primary objective was a reduction of dietary iron absorption, assessed by a reduction of serum-iron area under the curve (AUC) corrected for baseline serum iron.Results: All patients completed the study. The meal and the procyanidin supplements were well tolerated. In both HH and DIOS patients, the iron-rich meal induced a significant increase of serum iron compared with baseline at 120, 180, 240 min, from 8 to 9.1%(p = 0.002, 0.001 and 0.003, respectively) in DIOS and from 15.8 to 25.7% (p < 0.001) in HH. Iron absorption was 3.5-fold higher in HH than in DIOS (p < 0.001). Procyanidin supplementation did not significantly modify iron absorption in DIOS (AUC of added iron 332.87 +/- 649.55 vs 312.61 +/- 678.61 mu mol.h/L, p = 0.916) or in HH (1168.62 +/- 652.87 vs 1148.54 mu mol.h/L +/- 1290.05, p = 0.917).Conclusions: An iron-rich test meal led to a marked increase in iron absorption in HH but a mild increase in DIOS. Procyanidin supplementation does not significantly reduce dietary iron absorption in either disease. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd and European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism.

In the years 2008-2011, the study of surface and subsurface water runoff from the forested loess slope was carried out to determine the concentrations of selected chemical indicators of water quality, soil suspension and loss of the pure matter component. Maximum concentrations of water quality indicators tested were low and amounted to: 1.841 mg‧dm-3 N-Nog, 0.943 mg‧dm-3 N-NH4, 0.478 mg‧dm-3 N-NO3, 0.213 mg‧dm-3 N-NO2, 0.423 mg‧dm-3 P, 1.621 mg‧dm-3 K. The masses of the eroded matter constituents were low and amounted to: 0.808 kg‧ha-1 N, 0.157 kg‧ha-1 P, 0.142 kg‧ha-1 K and 2.989 kg‧ha-1 soil. Parameters of erosive precipitation and water outflow were statistically significantly correlated with the concentration of soil suspended matter and losses of the analyzed components of matter, and negligible concentration of chemical indicators of water quality. Afforestation of loess slopes threatened by erosion is a treatment that effectively protects the soil against water erosion.

Gene therapy is currently an irreversible approach, without possibilities to fine-tune or halt the expression of a therapeutic gene product. Especially when expressing neurotrophic factors to treat neurodegenerative disorders, options to regulate transgene expression levels might be beneficial. We thus developed an advanced single-genome inducible AAV vector for expression of GDNF, under control of the approved small molecule drug mifepristone. In the rat brain, GDNF expression can be induced over a wide range up to three hundred-fold over endogenous background, and completely returns to baseline within 3-4 weeks. When applied with appropriate serotype and titre, the vector is absolutely free of any non-induced background expression. In the BACHD model of Huntington's disease we demonstrate that the vector can be kept in a continuous ON-state for extended periods of time. In a model of Parkinson's disease we demonstrate that repeated short-term expression of GDNF restores motor capabilities in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats. We also report on sex-dependent pharmacodynamics of mifepristone in the rodent brain. Taken together, we show that wide-range and high-level induction, background-free, fully reversible and therapeutically active GDNF expression can be achieved under tight pharmacological control by this novel AAV - "Gene Switch" vector.