Mangesh Vaidya, V. R. Patodkar, Prajakta Kuralkar
et al.
Livestock-generated methane, particularly from cattle, was a significant contributor to climate change. Methane emissions from ruminant animals, such as cows and sheep, are primarily caused by the microbial fermentation of food in their digestive systems, a process known as enteric fermentation by making this process a prime source of greenhouse gas emissions in animal production. Considerable knowledge gaps existed in animal agriculture regarding effective strategies for mitigating these emissions while maintaining productivity. A key factor was the uncertainty surrounding methods for estimating emission rates, each having inherent limitations. For example, the suitability of the GreenFeed system varied based on specific experiment objectives. Compared to respiration chambers and the sulfur hexafluoride tracer method, the The GreenFeed system often required more time and a larger number of animals for treatment comparisons due to higher within-day variances. It measured numerous short-term methane emissions from individual animals at various times throughout the day over several days. Recent advancements focused on improving accuracy, ease of use, and cost-effectiveness, essential for better monitoring of greenhouse gases. Traditional methods, such as respiration chambers, while accurate, were costly and impractical for field measurements. The GreenFeed system’s software facilitated control over feed availability timing and CH4 measurement allocation. Therefore, careful planning was necessary to ensure accurate estimates of methane production. This review emphasized the need for effective measurement techniques to mitigate methane emissions from livestock.
Amaka Perpetual Muoneke, Victor Godwin Essien, Tolulope Joseph Ogunniyi
et al.
Abstract Nigeria has recorded recurrent Mpox outbreaks since the 1970s, with the most recent resurgence underscoring weaknesses in the country’s diagnostic and laboratory infrastructure. Despite improvements in molecular diagnostics, such as genome sequencing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), limited access to testing facilities, shortages of trained personnel, and inadequate biosafety measures remains a significant challenge. Although collaborations with international partners during recent outbreaks of infectious diseases have enhanced diagnostic capacity. The COVID-19 pandemic led to investments that expanded diagnostic infrastructure and decentralized sample collection, yet logistical barriers persist, particularly in rural areas where inadequate transportation networks and power supply disruptions delay sample processing. Additionally, workforce shortages and high emigration rates among laboratory personnel further weakened the system’s efficiency. Therefore, this review evaluates Nigeria’s preparedness for Mpox surveillance and response by analyzing past outbreak management efforts, including Ebola and Lassa fever. It identifies key strengths and gaps in the laboratory system, highlights barriers to effective diagnostics, and explores opportunities for improvement in terms of upgrading biosafety infrastructure, capacity building of healthcare workers, fostering public-private partnerships to develop local diagnostic tools, and increasing government funding for laboratory services. Strengthening these areas is essential for improving Nigeria’s capacity to detect and contain Mpox outbreaks and enhancing overall public health preparedness.
ObjectiveThe present study intends to observe the cleaning effect of different detection methods in cleaning silicone tubes used in phacoemulsification.MethodsA total of 100 silicone tubes were selected randomly after surgery. The silicone tubes were retained for ≤2 hours after surgery, and then washed with a high-pressure water gun at a flow rate of 12~14 ml/s. Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) detection and quantitation of residual protein were performed on the samples before cleaning and after washing for 30 s, 40 s, and 50 s, respectively, including the sample surface and the water after cleaning.ResultsAccording to the results before and after cleaning the silicone tube, there are significant differences in three methods of quantitation of residual protein, ATP detection in water sample, and ATP detection in sample surface (c2=8.6, P<0.05), while having no difference between the three methods after washing for 30 s, 40 s and 50 s, respectively (c2=4.918 and 5.571, P>0.05). A comparison of the means of ATP detection in water samples showed significant differences between rinses 30 s/40 s and 30 s/50 s. (Z=-7.45 and -0.08, P<0.05); pairwise contrast of ATP detection in sample surface for rinsing 30 s/40 s, 40 s/50 s, and 30 s/50 s showed significant differences (Z=3.64, 14.92, and 25.86, P<0.05). The quantitation of residual protein in silicone tubes showed pass rates of 84%, 100%, and 100% for 30 s, 40 s, and 50 s, respectively.ConclusionQuantitation of residual protein, ATP detection in water sample, and ATP detection in sample surface are available for monitoring the cleaning quality of silicone tube. The tube should be cleaned at a 12~14 ml/s flow rate and a washing time of ≥50 s.
Tatiana P. Ospelnikova, O. A. Svitich, F. I. Ershov
Among respiratory viruses, the most serious complications are caused by influenza A and B viruses, as well as coronaviruses. Most studies determined the absolute content of interferons (IFNs) of different types in blood serum. However, serum IFN protein concentrations do not always reflect the level of antiviral protection. The purpose of this study was a comparative assessment of interferon status in patients with ARVI: influenza and the acute stage of COVID-19. Materials and methods. We used biomaterial in the form of whole blood samples from 113 patients with influenza and 110 patients in the acute phase of moderate COVID-19. The body’s antiviral defense during ARVI was assessed by determining the activity of type I and II interferons produced by blood leukocytes using the “Interferon status” method in a cell-virus system simulated in vitro. Results. This work reveals a statistically significant decrease in the biological activity of interferons produced by blood leukocytes in influenza and a deficiency of IFN activity in COVID-19, compared with reference values, and also shows possible prospects for the treatment of these nosologies with such immunoactive drugs as IFN inducers (cycloferon, Kagocel) and immunomodulators (ingavirin, multicomponent vaccine Immunovac-VP-4). Conclusion. The results of IFN activity are necessary to assess the antiviral potential of the body, especially with COVID-19, given the “novelty” of the infection, the severity and variety of its clinical manifestations. Today it is known that the SARS-CoV-2 virus is capable of penetrating not only into the epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract, epithelial cells of the stomach and intestines, but also into the cells of the esophagus, heart, adrenal glands, bladder, brain, as well as into the vascular endothelium and macrophages. Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 inhibits the expression of cellular genes, including innate immune genes, and has a negative effect on the IFN system. The use of IFN inducers and immunomodulators for influenza and COVID-19 has shown immunological feasibility and clinical promise.
Abstract Catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA)-DNA walker allows nanostructures to spontaneously hybridize to the nucleic acids. The localized surface plasmon resonance provides the ability of color-shift for Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) to design a colorimetric biosensor by implementing CHA-DNA walker reaction on AuNPs. A target gene in Klebsiella pneumoniae as the reaction cascade trigger, was selected. H1 and H2 oligonucleotides as the components of the system were designed and verified by NUPACK. The AuNPs were conjugated to H1. The conjugation of the probes to the AuNPs was evaluated using FT-IR. The signal amplification process was conducted at 25℃. TEM imaging, zeta potential, spectroscopy, and gel-electrophoresis were used to examine the conduction of the reaction cascade and specificity. The sensitivity of the method was analyzed using serial dilution of the target. The formation of over-52 bp intermediate secondary structures (which only exist when the reaction happens) was confirmed by gel-electrophoresis. The color distinction between positive (0.08 to 0.058) and negative samples (0.098 to 0.05) was evidenced instantly and in a period of 90 min of the reaction as a drop change of 520 nm intensity absorbance. TEM imaging confirmed the further distance of AuNPs in the positive sample in comparison to that of the negative sample which reveals effective detection of the pathogen. The LOD of the technique was measured as 2.5 nM of the target sequence. The diagnostic approach is a label-free, enzyme-independent approach and can be executed in a single step. It has been designed by employing the CHA-DNA walker system along with the colorimetric properties of AuNPs for the first time, thereby paving the way for more rapid and accurate diagnostic kits.
BackgroundUterine Cervical Carcinoma (UCC) is the most prevalent gynecological malignancy globally, with a rising incidence in recent years. Accumulating evidence indicates that specific viral infections, including human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV and HCV), and human herpesvirus (HHV), may contribute to UCC development and progression. Understanding the complex interplay between viral infections and UCC risk is crucial for developing novel preventative and therapeutic interventions.MethodsThis comprehensive review investigates the association between viral infections and UCC risk by examining the roles of various viral pathogens in UCC etiology and pathogenesis, and possible molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we evaluate current diagnostic methods and potential therapeutic strategies targeting viral infections for UCC prevention or treatment.ResultsThe prevention of UCC has been significantly advanced by the emergence of self-sampling for HPV testing as a crucial tool, allowing for early detection and intervention. However, an essential challenge in UCC prevention lies in understanding how HPV and other viral coinfections, including EBV, HBV, HCV, HHV, HIV, or their concurrent presence, may potentially contribute to UCC development. The molecular mechanisms implicated in the association between viral infections and cervical cancer development include: (1) interference of viral oncogenes with cellular regulatory proteins, resulting in uncontrolled cell proliferation and malignant transformation; (2) inactivation of tumor suppressor genes by viral proteins; (3) evasion of host immune responses by viruses; (4) induction of a persistent inflammatory response, contributing to a tumor-promoting microenvironment; (5) epigenetic modifications that lead to aberrant gene expression; (6) stimulation of angiogenesis by viruses; and (7) activation of telomerase by viral proteins, leading to cellular immortalization. Additionally, viral coinfections can also enhance oncogenic potential through synergistic interactions between viral oncoproteins, employ immune evasion strategies, contribute to chronic inflammation, modulate host cellular signaling pathways, and induce epigenetic alterations, ultimately leading to cervical carcinogenesis.ConclusionRecognizing the implications of viral oncogenes in UCC etiology and pathogenesis is vital for addressing the escalating burden of UCC. Developing innovative preventative and therapeutic interventions requires a thorough understanding of the intricate relationship between viral infections and UCC risk.
Alanood S. Almurshedi, Thanaa A. El-Masry, Hend Selim
et al.
Abstract Background Marine macroalgae have gained interest recently, mostly due to their bioactive components. Polycladia crinita is an example of marine macroalgae from the Phaeophyceae class, also known as brown algae. They are characterized by a variety of bioactive compounds with valuable medical applications. The prevalence of such naturally active marine resources has made macroalgae-mediated manufacturing of nanoparticles an appealing strategy. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features of an aqueous extract of Polycladia crinita and biosynthesized P. crinita selenium nanoparticles (PCSeNPs) via a carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model. The synthesized PCSeNPs were fully characterized by UV–visible spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and EDX analyses. Results FTIR analysis of Polycladia crinita extract showed several sharp absorption peaks at 3435.2, 1423.5, and 876.4 cm−1 which represent O–H, C=O and C=C groups. Moreover, the most frequent functional groups identified in P. crinita aqueous extract that are responsible for producing SeNPs are the –NH2–, –C=O–, and –SH– groups. The EDX spectrum analysis revealed that the high percentages of Se and O, 1.09 ± 0.13 and 36.62 ± 0.60%, respectively, confirmed the formation of SeNPs. The percentages of inhibition of the edema in pretreated groups with doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg, i.p., of PCSeNPs were 62.78% and 77.24%, respectively. Furthermore, the pretreated groups with 25, 50 mg/kg of P. crinita extract displayed a substantial decrease in the MDA levels (P < 0.00, 26.9%, and 51.68% decrease, respectively), indicating potent antioxidant effect. Additionally, the pretreated groups with PCSeNPs significantly suppressed the MDA levels (P < 0.00, 54.77%, and 65.08% decreases, respectively). The results of immune-histochemical staining revealed moderate COX-2 and Il-1β expressions with scores 2 and 1 in rats pre-treated with 25 and 50 mg/kg of free extract, respectively. Additionally, the rats pre-treated with different doses of PCSeNPs demonstrated weak COX-2 and Il-1β expressions with score 1 (25 mg/kg) and negative expression with score 0 (50 mg/kg). Both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were dose-dependent. Conclusions These distinguishing features imply that this unique alga is a promising anti-inflammatory agent. Further studies are required to investigate its main active ingredients and possible side effects.
Abstract KRAS mutations are broadly recognized as promising targets for tumor therapy. T cell receptors (TCRs) can specifically recognize KRAS mutant neoantigens presented by human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) and mediate T cell responses to eliminate tumor cells. In the present study, we identify two TCRs specific for the 9-mer KRAS-G12V mutant neoantigen in the context of HLA-A*11:01. The TCR-T cells are constructed and display cytokine secretion and cytotoxicity upon co-culturing with varied tumor cells expressing the KRAS-G12V mutation. Moreover, 1-2C TCR-T cells show anti-tumor activity in preclinical models in female mice. The 9-mer KRAS-G12V mutant peptide exhibits a distinct conformation from the 9-mer wildtype peptide and its 10-mer counterparts. Specific recognition of the G12V mutant by TCR depends both on distinct conformation from wildtype peptide and on direct interaction with residues from TCRs. Our study reveals the mechanisms of presentation and TCR recognition of KRAS-G12V mutant peptide and describes TCRs with therapeutic potency for tumor immunotherapy.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus that caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Though previous studies have suggested that SARS-CoV-2 cellular tropism depends on the host-cell-expressed proteins, whether transcriptional regulation controls SARS-CoV-2 tropism factors in human lung cells remains unclear. In this study, we used computational approaches to identify transcription factors (TFs) regulating SARS-CoV-2 tropism for different types of lung cells. We constructed transcriptional regulatory networks (TRNs) controlling SARS-CoV-2 tropism factors for healthy donors and COVID-19 patients using lung single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. Through differential network analysis, we found that the altered regulatory role of TFs in the same cell types of healthy and SARS-CoV-2-infected networks may be partially responsible for differential tropism factor expression. In addition, we identified the TFs with high centralities from each cell type and proposed currently available drugs that target these TFs as potential candidates for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Altogether, our work provides valuable cell-type-specific TRN models for understanding the transcriptional regulation and gene expression of SARS-CoV-2 tropism factors.
Marlen Vitales-Noyola, Berenice Hernández-Castro, Diana Alvarado-Hernández
et al.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized, among others, by tissue damage and activation/differentiation of proinflammatory lymphocytes. Accordingly, several studies have concluded that type 17 T helper (Th17) cells seem to have an important role in the pathogenesis of this condition. However, the strategy for the identification and analysis of proinflammatory Th17 cells in those studies has not been consistent and has usually been different from what was originally described. Therefore, we decided to evaluate the levels of Th17 cells in patients with RA employing an extended immune phenotype by using an eight-color multiparametric flow cytometry analysis. For this purpose, blood samples were obtained from 30 patients with RA and 16 healthy subjects, and the levels of Th17 and type 22 helper (Th22) lymphocytes were analyzed as well as the in vitro differentiation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells into Th17 lymphocytes induced by interleukin-23 (IL-23) and IL-1β. We found significant enhanced levels of total Th17 lymphocytes (defined as CD4+IL-17+) as well as enhanced numbers of their pathogenic (defined as CD4+CXCR3+IL-17+IL-22+CD243+CD161+IFN-γ+IL-10-) and nonpathogenic (CD4+CXCR3+IL-17+IL-22-CD243-CD161-IFN-γ-IL-10+) cell subsets in patients with RA. Likewise, the number of Th22 (CD4+CXCR3+/-IL-17-IL-22+) was also increased in these patients compared to healthy controls. However, the in vitro induction/differentiation of pathogenic Th17 cells showed similar results in controls and patients with RA. Likewise, no significant associations were detected in patients with RA between the levels of Th17 or Th22 cells and clinical or laboratory parameters. Our data indicate that patients with RA show enhanced blood levels of the different subsets of Th17 cells and Th22 lymphocytes tested in this study and suggest that these levels are not apparently associated with clinical or laboratory parameters.
ABSTRACT Pectobacterium carotovorum is an economically important phytopathogen and has been identified as the major causative agent of bacterial soft rot in carrots. Control of this phytopathogen is vital to minimizing carrot harvest losses. As fully efficient control measures to successfully avoid the disease are unavailable, the phage-mediated biocontrol of the pathogen has recently gained scientific attention. In this study, we present a comprehensive characterization of the P. carotovorum phage vB_PcaM_P7_Pc (abbreviated as P7_Pc) that was isolated from infected carrot samples with characteristic soft rot symptoms, which were obtained from storage facilities at market places in Gampaha District, Sri Lanka. P7_Pc is a myovirus, and it exhibits growth characteristics of an exclusively lytic life cycle. It showed visible lysis against four of the tested P. carotovorum strains and one Pectobacterium aroidearum strain. This phage also showed a longer latent period (125 min) than other related phages; however, this did not affect its high phage titter (>1010 PFU/mL). The final assembled genome of P7_Pc is 147,299 bp in length with a G+C content of 50.34%. Of the 298 predicted open reading frames (ORFs) of the genome of P7_Pc, putative functions were assigned to 53 ORFs. Seven tRNA-coding genes were predicted in the genome, while the genome lacked any major genes coding for lysogeny-related products, confirming its virulent nature. The P7_Pc genome shares 96.12% and 95.74% average nucleotide identities with Cronobacter phages CR8 and PBES02, respectively. Phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses of the genome revealed that P7_Pc clusters well within the clade with the members representing the genus Certrevirus. Currently, there are only 4 characterized Pectobacterium phages (P. atrosepticum phages phiTE and CB7 and Pectobacterium phages DU_PP_I and DU_PP_IV) that are classified under the genus, making the phage P7_Pc the first reported member of the genus isolated using the host bacterium P. carotovorum. The results of this study provide a detailed characterization of the phage P7_Pc, enabling its careful classification into the genus Certrevirus. The knowledge gathered on the phage based on the shared biology of the genus will further aid in the future selection of phage P7_Pc as a biocontrol agent. IMPORTANCE Bacterial soft rot disease, caused by Pectobacterium spp., can lead to significant losses in carrot yields. As current control measures involving the use of chemicals or antibiotics are not recommended in many countries, bacteriophage-mediated biocontrol strategies are being explored for the successful control of these phytopathogens. The successful implementation of such biocontrol strategies relies heavily upon the proper understanding of the growth characteristics and genomic properties of the phage. Further, the selection of taxonomically different phages for the formulation of phage cocktails in biocontrol applications is critical to combat potential bacterial resistance development. This study was conducted to carefully characterize and resolve the phylogenetic placement of the P. carotovorum phage vB_PcaM_P7_Pc by using its biological and genomic properties. Phage P7_Pc has a myovirus morphotype with an exclusively lytic life cycle, and the absence of genes related to lysogeny, toxin production, and antibiotic resistance in its genome confirmed its suitability to be used in environmental applications. Furthermore, P7_Pc is classified under the genus Certrevirus, making it the first reported phage of the genus of the host species, P. carotovorum.
Marta Kupryś-Caruk, Renata Choińska, Agnieszka Dekowska
et al.
Abstract The aim of the current study was to determine the ability of the Lactobacillus buchneri M B/00077 strain to degrade xylan, its impact on the quality of silage made from the lignocellulosic biomass of Spartina pectinata L., as well as the efficiency of biogas production. In the model in vitro conditions the L. buchneri M B/00077 strain was able to grow in a medium using xylan as the sole source of carbon, and xylanolytic activity was detected in the post-culture medium. In the L. buchneri M B/00077 genome, genes encoding endo-1,4-xylanase and β-xylosidase were identified. The silages prepared using L. buchneri M B/00077 were characterized by a higher concentration of acetic and propionic acids compared to the controls or the silages prepared with the addition of commercial xylanase. The addition of bacteria increased the efficiency of biogas production. From the silages treated with L. buchneri M B/00077, 10% and 20% more biogas was obtained than from the controls and the silages treated with commercial xylanase, respectively. The results of the current study indicated the strain L. buchneri M B/00077 as being a promising candidate for further application in the field of pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass.
Grzegorz Krasowski, Adam Junka, Justyna Paleczny
et al.
Chronic wounds complicated with biofilm formed by pathogens remain one of the most significant challenges of contemporary medicine. The application of topical antiseptic solutions against wound biofilm has been gaining increasing interest among clinical practitioners and scientific researchers. This paper compares the activity of polyhexanide-, octenidine- and hypochlorite/hypochlorous acid-based antiseptics against biofilm formed by clinical strains of <i>Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus</i> and <i>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</i>. The analyses included both standard techniques utilizing polystyrene plates and self-designed biocellulose-based models in which a biofilm formed by pathogens was formed on an elastic, fibrinous surface covered with a fibroblast layer. The obtained results show high antibiofilm activity of polihexanide- and octenidine-based antiseptics and lack or weak antibiofilm activity of hypochlorite-based antiseptic of total chlorine content equal to 80 parts per million. The data presented in this paper indicate that polihexanide- or octenidine-based antiseptics are highly useful in the treatment of biofilm, while hypochlorite-based antiseptics with low chlorine content may be applied for wound rinsing but not when specific antibiofilm activity is required.
Takahiro Nakayama, Toshiyuki Fukutomi, Yasuo Terao
et al.
The HPC-1/syntaxin 1A (<i>Stx1a</i>) gene, which is involved in synaptic transmission and neurodevelopmental disorders, is a TATA-less gene with several transcription start sites. It is activated by the binding of Sp1 and acetylated histone H3 to the −204 to +2 core promoter region (CPR) in neuronal cell/tissue. Furthermore, it is depressed by the association of class 1 histone deacetylases (HDACs) to <i>Stx1a</i>–CPR in non-neuronal cell/tissue. To further clarify the factors characterizing <i>Stx1a</i> gene silencing in non-neuronal cell/tissue not expressing <i>Stx1a</i>, we attempted to identify the promoter region forming DNA–protein complex only in non-neuronal cells. Electrophoresis mobility shift assays (EMSA) demonstrated that the −183 to −137 OL2 promoter region forms DNA–protein complex only in non-neuronal fetal rat skin keratinocyte (FRSK) cells which do not express <i>Stx1a</i>. Furthermore, the Yin-Yang 1 (YY1) transcription factor binds to the −183 to −137 promoter region of <i>Stx1a</i> in FRSK cells, as shown by competitive EMSA and supershift assay. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay revealed that YY1 in vivo associates to <i>Stx1a</i>–CPR in cell/tissue not expressing <i>Stx1a</i> and that trichostatin A treatment in FRSK cells decreases the high-level association of YY1 to <i>Stx1a</i>-CPR in default. Reporter assay indicated that YY1 negatively regulates <i>Stx1a</i> transcription. Finally, mass spectrometry analysis showed that gene silencing factors, including HDAC1, associate onto the −183 to −137 promoter region together with YY1. The current study is the first to report that <i>Stx1a</i> transcription is negatively regulated in a cell/tissue-specific manner by YY1 transcription factor, which binds to the −183 to −137 promoter region together with gene silencing factors, including HDAC.
Alicia Arnott, Jenny Draper, Rebecca J. Rockett
et al.
Abstract Objective To adapt ‘fishplots’ to describe real-time evolution of SARS-CoV-2 genomic clusters. Results This novel analysis adapted the fishplot to depict the size and duration of circulating genomic clusters over time in New South Wales, Australia. It illuminated the effectiveness of interventions on the emergence, spread and eventual elimination of clusters and distilled genomic data into clear information to inform public health action.
Abstract Background The abuse of antibiotics in animal husbandry imposes a serious threat to both animal health and the environment. As a replacement for antibiotics, probiotic products have been widely used in livestock farming to promote growth of animals. However, no products specifically developed for farmed raccoon dogs and foxes are commercially available at the moment. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of mixed probiotics on farmed raccoon dogs and foxes. Results Two feeding trials on farmed raccoon dogs and foxes were performed. A mixed probiotic preparation composed of Bifidobacterium bifidum, Clostridium butyricum, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis was fed to these two canine species in order to assess whether such a mixed probiotics can be an alternative to antibiotics (control group). The body weight of raccoon dogs exhibited an increasing tendency with mixed probiotics administration, while that of foxes did not. The serum antioxidant activity was evaluated, and a significantly increase of total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC) was observed in both species. Illumina MiSeq was used for the sequencing of 16S rRNA genes to compare the composition of fecal microbiota between the control and mixed probiotics groups. Although α-diversity did not change, β-diversity of the fecal microbiota showed a distinct dissimilarity between the control and probiotics groups of both raccoon dogs and foxes. Dietary mixed probiotics increased the abundance of the genus Bifidobacterium in the fecal samples of raccoon dogs, and the genus Bacillus in the fecal samples of foxes. The different responses of raccoon dogs and foxes to probiotics might be the result of differences in the composition of the native gut microbiota of the two species. Conclusions The mixed probiotics preparation composed of Bifidobacterium bifidum, Clostridium butyricum, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis could be an effective feed additive for the improvement of the health of farmed raccoon dogs, but it may not be suitable for foxes.
Microscopy has been instrumental in the discovery and characterization of microorganisms. Major advances in high-throughput fluorescence microscopy and automated, high-content image analysis tools are paving the way to the systematic and quantitative study of the molecular properties of cellular systems, both at the population and at the single-cell level. High-Content Imaging (HCI) has been used to characterize host-virus interactions in genome-wide reverse genetic screens and to identify novel cellular factors implicated in the binding, entry, replication and egress of several pathogenic viruses. Here we present an overview of the most significant applications of HCI in the context of the cell biology of filovirus infection. HCI assays have been recently implemented to quantitatively study filoviruses in cell culture, employing either infectious viruses in a BSL-4 environment or surrogate genetic systems in a BSL-2 environment. These assays are becoming instrumental for small molecule and siRNA screens aimed at the discovery of both cellular therapeutic targets and of compounds with anti-viral properties. We discuss the current practical constraints limiting the implementation of high-throughput biology in a BSL-4 environment, and propose possible solutions to safely perform high-content, high-throughput filovirus infection assays. Finally, we discuss possible novel applications of HCI in the context of filovirus research with particular emphasis on the identification of possible cellular biomarkers of virus infection.
Fung Chang-Phone, Lee Chao-Wei, Huang Shie-Shian
et al.
<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Ertapenem is a once-a-day carbapenem and has excellent activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative aerobic, facultative, and anaerobic bacteria. The susceptibility of isolates of community-acquired bacteremia to ertapenem has not been reported yet. The present study assesses the in vitro activity of ertapenem against aerobic and facultative bacterial pathogens isolated from patients with community-acquired bacteremia by determining and comparing the MICs of cefepime, cefoxitin, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, ertapenem, piperacillin, piperacillin-tazobactam, ciprofloxacin, amikacin and gentamicin. The prevalence of extended broad spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) producing strains of community-acquired bacteremia and their susceptibility to these antibiotics are investigated.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>Aerobic and facultative bacteria isolated from blood obtained from hospitalized patients with community-acquired bacteremia within 48 hours of admission between August 1, 2004 and September 30, 2004 in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, Taiwan, were identified using standard procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated by Etest according to the standard guidelines provided by the manufacturer and document M100-S16 Performance Standards of the Clinical Laboratory of Standard Institute. Antimicrobial agents including cefepime, cefoxitin, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, ertapenem, piperacillin, piperacillin-tazobactam, ciprofloxacin, amikacin and gentamicin were used against the bacterial isolates to test their MICs as determined by Etest. For <it>Staphylococcus aureus </it>isolates, MICs of oxacillin were also tested by Etest to differentiate oxacillin-sensitive and oxacillin-resistant <it>S. aureus</it>.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Ertapenem was highly active in vitro against many aerobic and facultative bacterial pathogens commonly recovered from patients with community-acquired bacteremia (128/159, 80.5 %). Ertapenem had more potent activity than ceftriaxone, piperacillin-tazobactam, or ciprofloxacin against oxacillin-susceptible <it>S</it>. <it>aureus </it>(17/17, 100%)and was more active than any of these agents against <it>enterobacteriaceae </it>(82/82, 100%).</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Based on the microbiology pattern of community-acquired bacteremia, initial empiric treatment that requires coverage of a broad spectrum of both gram-negative and gram-positive aerobic bacteria, such as ertapenem, may be justified in moderately severe cases of community-acquired bacteremia in non-immunocompromised hosts.</p>