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Nissimov JI, Pagarete A, Ma F, Cody S, Dunigan DD, Kimmance SA, Allen MJ. Coccolithoviruses: A Review of Cross-Kingdom Genomic Thievery and Metabolic Thuggery. Viruses 2017; 9:v9030052. [PMID: 28335474 PMCID: PMC5371807 DOI: 10.3390/v9030052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Coccolithoviruses (Phycodnaviridae) infect and lyse the most ubiquitous and successful coccolithophorid in modern oceans, Emiliania huxleyi. So far, the genomes of 13 of these giant lytic viruses (i.e., Emiliania huxleyi viruses—EhVs) have been sequenced, assembled, and annotated. Here, we performed an in-depth comparison of their genomes to try and contextualize the ecological and evolutionary traits of these viruses. The genomes of these EhVs have from 444 to 548 coding sequences (CDSs). Presence/absence analysis of CDSs identified putative genes with particular ecological significance, namely sialidase, phosphate permease, and sphingolipid biosynthesis. The viruses clustered into distinct clades, based on their DNA polymerase gene as well as full genome comparisons. We discuss the use of such clustering and suggest that a gene-by-gene investigation approach may be more useful when the goal is to reveal differences related to functionally important genes. A multi domain “Best BLAST hit” analysis revealed that 84% of the EhV genes have closer similarities to the domain Eukarya. However, 16% of the EhV CDSs were very similar to bacterial genes, contributing to the idea that a significant portion of the gene flow in the planktonic world inter-crosses the domains of life.
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Weynberg KD, Allen MJ, Wilson WH. Marine Prasinoviruses and Their Tiny Plankton Hosts: A Review. Viruses 2017; 9:E43. [PMID: 28294997 PMCID: PMC5371798 DOI: 10.3390/v9030043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Viruses play a crucial role in the marine environment, promoting nutrient recycling and biogeochemical cycling and driving evolutionary processes. Tiny marine phytoplankton called prasinophytes are ubiquitous and significant contributors to global primary production and biomass. A number of viruses (known as prasinoviruses) that infect these important primary producers have been isolated and characterised over the past decade. Here we review the current body of knowledge about prasinoviruses and their interactions with their algal hosts. Several genes, including those encoding for glycosyltransferases, methyltransferases and amino acid synthesis enzymes, which have never been identified in viruses of eukaryotes previously, have been detected in prasinovirus genomes. The host organisms are also intriguing; most recently, an immunity chromosome used by a prasinophyte in response to viral infection was discovered. In light of such recent, novel discoveries, we discuss why the cellular simplicity of prasinophytes makes for appealing model host organism-virus systems to facilitate focused and detailed investigations into the dynamics of marine viruses and their intimate associations with host species. We encourage the adoption of the prasinophyte Ostreococcus and its associated viruses as a model host-virus system for examination of cellular and molecular processes in the marine environment.
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Harris RA, Grobman ME, Allen MJ, Schachtel J, Rawson NE, Bennett B, Ledyayev J, Hopewell B, Coates JR, Reinero CR, Lever TE. Standardization of a Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study Protocol to Investigate Dysphagia in Dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2017; 31:383-393. [PMID: 28240398 PMCID: PMC5354069 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.14676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) is the gold standard for diagnosis of dysphagia in veterinary medicine but lacks standardized protocols that emulate physiologic feeding practices. Age impacts swallow function in humans but has not been evaluated by VFSS in dogs. Hypothesis/Objectives To develop a protocol with custom kennels designed to allow free‐feeding of 3 optimized formulations of contrast media and diets that address limitations of current VFSS protocols. We hypothesized that dogs evaluated by a free‐feeding VFSS protocol would show differences in objective swallow metrics based on age. Animals Healthy juvenile, adult, and geriatric dogs (n = 24). Methods Prospective, experimental study. Custom kennels were developed to maintain natural feeding behaviors during VFSS. Three food consistencies (thin liquid, pureed food, and dry kibble) were formulated with either iohexol or barium to maximize palatability and voluntary prehension. Dogs were evaluated by 16 swallow metrics and compared across age groups. Results Development of a standardized VFSS protocol resulted in successful collection of swallow data in healthy dogs. No significant differences in swallow metrics were observed among age groups. Substantial variability was observed in healthy dogs when evaluated under these physiologic conditions. Features typically attributed to pathologic states, such as gastric reflux, were seen in healthy dogs. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Development of a VFSS protocol that reflects natural feeding practices may allow emulation of physiology resulting in clinical signs of dysphagia. Age did not result in significant changes in swallow metrics, but additional studies are needed, particularly in light of substantial normal variation.
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Alizadeh M, Knapik GG, Dufour JS, Zindl C, Allen MJ, Bertran J, Fitzpatrick N, Marras WS. An EMG-driven biomechanical model of the canine cervical spine. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2017; 32:101-109. [PMID: 28092739 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the frequency of cervical spine injuries in canines, the purpose of this effort was to develop an EMG-driven dynamic model of the canine cervical spine to assess a biomechanical understanding that enables one to investigate the risk of neck disorders. A canine subject was recruited in this investigation in order to collect subject specific data. Reflective markers and a motion capture system were used for kinematic measurement; surface electrodes were used to record electromyography signals, and with the aid of force plate kinetics were recorded. A 3D model of the canine subject was reconstructed from an MRI dataset. Muscles lines of action were defined through a new technique with the aid of 3D white light scanner. The model performed well with a 0.73 weighted R2 value in all three planes. The weighted average absolute error of the predicted moment was less than 10% of the external moment. The proposed model is a canine specific forward-dynamics model that precisely tracks the canine subject head and neck motion, calculates the muscle force generated from the twelve major moment producing muscles, and estimates resulting loads on specific spinal tissues.
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Alizadeh M, Zindl C, Allen MJ, Knapik GG, Fitzpatrick N, Marras WS. MRI cross sectional atlas of normal canine cervical musculoskeletal structure. Res Vet Sci 2016; 109:94-100. [PMID: 27892880 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2016.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been increasingly used as a diagnostic tool for cervical spine injuries in canines, a comprehensive normal MRI anatomy of the canine cervical spine muscles is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to build a magnetic resonance imaging atlas of the normal cross sectional anatomy of the muscles of the canine cervical spine. MRI scans were performed on a canine cadaver using a combination of T1 and T2-weighted images in the transverse, sagittal and dorsal planes acquired at a slice thickness of 1mm. Muscle contours were traced manually in each slice, using local osseous structures as reference points for muscle identification. Twenty-two muscles were traced in 401 slices in the cervical region. A three dimensional surface model of all the contoured muscles was created to illustrate the complex geometrical arrangement of canine neck muscles. The cross-sectional area of the muscles was measured at the mid-level of each vertebra. The accuracy of the location of the mapped muscles was verified by comparing the sagittal view of the 3D model of muscles with still photographs obtained from anatomic canine cadaver dissection. We believe that this information will provide a unique and valuable resource for veterinary researchers, clinicians and surgeons who wish to evaluate MRI images of the cervical spine. It will also serve as the foundation for ongoing work to develop a computational model of the canine cervical spine in which anatomical information is combined with electromyographic, kinematic and kinetic data.
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Petti S, Polimeni A, Allen MJ. Dental unit water treatment with hydrogen peroxide and monovalent silver ions artificially contaminated with freshly isolated pathogens. ANNALI DI IGIENE : MEDICINA PREVENTIVA E DI COMUNITA 2016; 27:789-98. [PMID: 26835793 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2015.2072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dental unit water (DUW) could be contaminated by human pathogens coming from biological fluids penetrated during patient treatment and by opportunistic pathogens detached from aquatic biofilm. These microorganisms could be spread to following patients. We tested the disinfectant activity of hydrogen peroxide and monovalent silver ions (H(2)O(2)-Ag(+)) into DUW artificially contaminated with freshly isolated pathogens. METHODS The tested microorganisms were Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Legionella pneumophila, Mycobacterium chelonae, non-pathogenic Bacillus clausii spores. Bacterial suspensions were inoculated into the waterlines of pre-sterilized dental turbines. The test-turbines were connected to DUW and contaminated water was treated for 10 minutes with H(2)O(2)-Ag(+)-based disinfectant (H(2)O(2) 3% v/v, Ag(+) 0.001% w/v). The control-turbines were left untreated. Turbines were washed with sterile hard water used to assess the residual bacterial loads (expressed in colony forming units -cfu). Each strain was tested five times and the mean log loads were assessed. Following the European Standardization Committee, the disinfectant activity was evaluated as mean log load reduction, that is, the difference between the mean log load detected on the control-turbines and the mean log load detected on the test-turbines. RESULTS Mean bacterial loads detected on the control-turbines ranged between 105-107 cfu. The mean log load reductions resulted 7.5 log cfu for S. aureus, E. faecalis, P. aeruginosa, 6.3 for C. albicans, 5.4 for L. pneumophila, 5.3 for M. chelonae, 2.9 for B. clausii spores. CONCLUSIONS DUW disinfection with H(2)O(2)-Ag(+) could help minimize the risk that planktonic pathogens are spread to patients during dental treatment.
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Wagner J, Bransgrove R, Beacham TA, Allen MJ, Meixner K, Drosg B, Ting VP, Chuck CJ. Co-production of bio-oil and propylene through the hydrothermal liquefaction of polyhydroxybutyrate producing cyanobacteria. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2016; 207:166-174. [PMID: 26881334 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2016.01.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) producing cyanobacteria was converted through hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) into propylene and a bio-oil suitable for advanced biofuel production. HTL of model compounds demonstrated that in contrast to proteins and carbohydrates, no synergistic effects were detected when converting PHB in the presence of algae. Subsequently, Synechocystis cf. salina, which had accumulated 7.5wt% PHB was converted via HTL (15% dry weight loading, 340°C). The reaction gave an overall propylene yield of 2.6%, higher than that obtained from the model compounds, in addition to a bio-oil with a low nitrogen content of 4.6%. No propylene was recovered from the alternative non-PHB producing cyanobacterial strains screened, suggesting that PHB is the source of propylene. PHB producing microorganisms could therefore be used as a feedstock for a biorefinery to produce polypropylene and advanced biofuels, with the level of propylene being proportional to the accumulated amount of PHB.
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Wang H, Butt L, Rooks P, Khan F, Allen MJ, Ali ST. Characterisation of algicidal bacterial exometabolites against the lipid-accumulating diatom Skeletonema sp. ALGAL RES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2015.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Hamilton ML, Warwick J, Terry A, Allen MJ, Napier JA, Sayanova O. Towards the Industrial Production of Omega-3 Long Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids from a Genetically Modified Diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144054. [PMID: 26658738 PMCID: PMC4681182 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum can accumulate up to 30% of the omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and, as such, is considered a good source for the industrial production of EPA. However, P. tricornutum does not naturally accumulate significant levels of the more valuable omega-3 LC-PUFA docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Previously, we have engineered P. tricornutum to accumulate elevated levels of DHA and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) by overexpressing heterologous genes encoding enzyme activities of the LC-PUFA biosynthetic pathway. Here, the transgenic strain Pt_Elo5 has been investigated for the scalable production of EPA and DHA. Studies have been performed at the laboratory scale on the cultures growing in up to 1 L flasks a 3.5 L bubble column, a 550 L closed photobioreactor and a 1250 L raceway pond with artificial illumination. Detailed studies were carried out on the effect of different media, carbon sources and illumination on omega-3 LC-PUFAs production by transgenic strain Pt_Elo5 and wild type P. tricornutum grown in 3.5 L bubble columns. The highest content of DHA (7.5% of total fatty acids, TFA) in transgenic strain was achieved in cultures grown in seawater salts, Instant Ocean (IO), supplemented with F/2 nutrients (F2N) under continuous light. After identifying the optimal conditions for omega-3 LC-PUFA accumulation in the small-scale experiments we compared EPA and DHA levels of the transgenic strain grown in a larger fence-style tubular photobioreactor and a raceway pond. We observed a significant production of DHA over EPA, generating an EPA/DPA/DHA profile of 8.7%/4.5%/12.3% of TFA in cells grown in a photobioreactor, equivalent to 6.4 μg/mg dry weight DHA in a mid-exponentially growing algal culture. Omega-3 LC-PUFAs production in a raceway pond at ambient temperature but supplemented with artificial illumination (110 μmol photons m-2s-1) on a 16:8h light:dark cycle, in natural seawater and F/2 nutrients was 24.8% EPA and 10.3% DHA. Transgenic strain grown in RP produced the highest levels of EPA (12.8%) incorporated in neutral lipids. However, the highest partitioning of DHA in neutral lipids was observed in cultures grown in PBR (7.1%). Our results clearly demonstrate the potential for the development of the transgenic Pt_Elo5 as a platform for the commercial production of EPA and DHA.
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Allen MJ, Kanteti R, Riehm JJ, El-Hashani E, Salgia R. Whole-animal mounts of Caenorhabditis elegans for 3D imaging using atomic force microscopy. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2015; 11:1971-4. [PMID: 26282382 PMCID: PMC5051269 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2015.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 07/20/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The 3D surface of Caenorhabditis elegans was imaged at nanometer resolution using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Oscillation of a medium stiffness silicon AFM cantilever at the upper second amplitude peak, typically 6 times above the fundamental frequency, vastly improved image quality on the moist, sticky, and soft worms. Whole-animal mounts of normal and double-headed mutants of the nematode worm were prepared and scanned. Well-preserved anatomical features including annuli, furrows, alae, and rows of never before seen nanometer-sized pores dotting the molted worm's outermost surface coat were resolved. Well-preserved anatomical features including annuli, furrows, alae, and rows of nanometer-sized pores or struts dotting the molted worm's outermost surface were resolved. This AFM method represents a simple and rapid new approach for nanometer-resolved 3D imaging and analysis of whole-animal specimens of C. elegans. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR In this interesting article the authors describe a new AFM sampling method to allow better images on whole-animal mounts such as C. elegans. This method would generate more information and in the future may be useful for differentiating even individual animals with different genetic backgrounds.
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Margulies BS, DeBoyace SD, Damron TA, Allen MJ. Ewing's sarcoma of bone tumor cells produces MCSF that stimulates monocyte proliferation in a novel mouse model of Ewing's sarcoma of bone. Bone 2015; 79:121-30. [PMID: 26051470 PMCID: PMC4501857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2015.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 05/14/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Ewing's sarcoma of bone is a primary childhood malignancy of bone that is treated with X-radiation therapy in combination with surgical excision and chemotherapy. To better study Ewing's sarcoma of bone we developed a novel model of primary Ewing's sarcoma of bone and then treated animals with X-radiation therapy. We identified that uncontrolled tumor resulted in lytic bone destruction while X-radiation therapy decreased lytic bone destruction and increased limb-length asymmetry, a common, crippling complication of X-radiation therapy. Osteoclasts were indentified adjacent to the tumor, however, we were unable to detect RANK-ligand in the Ewing's tumor cells in vitro, which lead us to investigate alternate mechanisms for osteoclast formation. Ewing's sarcoma tumor cells and archival Ewing's sarcoma of bone tumor biopsy samples were shown to express MCSF, which could promote osteoclast formation. Increased monocyte numbers were detected in peripheral blood and spleen in animals with untreated Ewing's sarcoma tumor while monocyte number in animals treated with x-radiation had normal numbers of monocytes. Our data suggest that our Ewing's sarcoma of bone model will be useful in the study Ewing's sarcoma tumor progression in parallel with the effects of chemotherapy and X-radiation therapy.
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Nissimov JI, Napier JA, Allen MJ, Kimmance SA. Intragenus competition between coccolithoviruses: an insight on how a select few can come to dominate many. Environ Microbiol 2015; 18:133-45. [PMID: 25970076 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.12902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2014] [Revised: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Viruses are a major cause of coccolithophore bloom demise in both temperate and sub-temperate oceanic regions. Most infection studies on coccolithoviruses have been conducted with a single virus strain, and the effect of intragenus competition by closely related coccolithoviruses has been ignored. Here we conducted combined infection experiments, infecting Emiliania huxleyi CCMP 2090 with two coccolithoviruses: EhV-86 and EhV-207 both simultaneously and independently. EhV-207 displayed a shorter lytic cycle and increased production potential than EhV-86 and was remarkably superior under competitive conditions. Although the viruses displayed identical adsorption kinetics in the first 2 h post infection, EhV-207 gained a numerical advantage as early as 8 h post infection. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) revealed that when infecting in combination, EhV-207 was not affected by the presence of EhV-86, whereas EhV-86 was quickly out-competed, and a significant reduction in free and cell-associated EhV-86 was seen as early as 2 days after the initial infection. The observation of such clear phenotypic differences between genetically distinct, yet similar, coccolithovirus strains, by flow cytometry and quantitative real-time PCR allowed tentative links to the burgeoning genomic, transcriptomic and metabolic data to be made and the factors driving their selection, in particular to the de novo coccolithovirus-encoded sphingolipid biosynthesis pathway. This work illustrates that, even within a family, not all viruses are created equally, and the potential exists for relatively small genetic changes to infer disproportionately large competitive advantages for one coccolithovirus over another, ultimately leading to a few viruses dominating the many.
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Kerr F, Augustin H, Piper MDW, Gandy C, Allen MJ, Lovestone S, Partridge L. Erratum to "Dietary restriction delays aging, but not neuronal dysfunction, in Drosophila models of Alzheimer's disease." [Neurobiol. Aging 32 (2011) 1977-1989]. Neurobiol Aging 2015; 36:2331. [PMID: 28843333 PMCID: PMC5595895 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2015.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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Atkinson S, Thomas SF, Goddard P, Bransgrove RM, Mason PT, Oak A, Bansode A, Patankar R, Gleason ZD, Sim MK, Whitesell A, Allen MJ. Swirl Flow Bioreactor coupled with Cu-alginate beads: A system for the eradication of Coliform and Escherichia coli from biological effluents. Sci Rep 2015; 5:9461. [PMID: 25999243 PMCID: PMC4440980 DOI: 10.1038/srep09461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that approximately 1.1 billion people globally drink unsafe water. We previously reported both a novel copper-alginate bead, which quickly reduces pathogen loading in waste streams and the incorporation of these beads into a novel swirl flow bioreactor (SFB), of low capital and running costs and of simple construction from commercially available plumbing pipes and fittings. The purpose of the present study was to trial this system for pathogen reduction in waste streams from an operating Dewats system in Hinjewadi, Pune, India and in both simulated and real waste streams in Seattle, Washington, USA. The trials in India, showed a complete inactivation of coliforms in the discharged effluent (Mean Log removal Value (MLRV) = 3.51), accompanied by a total inactivation of E. coli with a MLRV of 1.95. The secondary clarifier effluent also showed a 4.38 MLRV in viable coliforms during treatment. However, the system was slightly less effective in reducing E. coli viability, with a MLRV of 1.80. The trials in Seattle also demonstrated the efficacy of the system in the reduction of viable bacteria, with a LRV of 5.67 observed of viable Raoultella terrigena cells (100%).
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Elster N, Eustace AJ, Fan Y, Naidoo J, Fay J, Kay E, Carr A, Breathnach OS, Morris PG, Grogan W, Hill AD, Power C, Allen MJ, Kennedy S, Crown J, Gallagher WM, Toomey S, Hennessy B. Effect of somatic mutations in the four genes of the HER family on occurrence in HER2-positive breast cancer, cell proliferation rates, and resistance to HER2-targeted therapies in vitro. J Clin Oncol 2015. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2015.33.15_suppl.615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Kamel DS, Osman MAM, Grogan W, Breathnach OS, Morris PG, Hill AD, Power C, Allen MJ, Milewski M, Griffin M, Summersby E, Gilchrist M, Hennessy B. Long-term effect of chemotherapy on ovarian function in premenopausal breast cancer. J Clin Oncol 2015. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2015.33.15_suppl.e17682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Meng F, Mambetsariev I, Tian Y, Beckham Y, Meliton A, Leff A, Gardel ML, Allen MJ, Birukov KG, Birukova AA. Attenuation of lipopolysaccharide-induced lung vascular stiffening by lipoxin reduces lung inflammation. Am J Respir Cell Mol Biol 2015; 52:152-61. [PMID: 24992633 DOI: 10.1165/rcmb.2013-0468oc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Reversible changes in lung microstructure accompany lung inflammation, although alterations in tissue micromechanics and their impact on inflammation remain unknown. This study investigated changes in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and tissue stiffness in a model of LPS-induced inflammation and examined the role of lipoxin analog 15-epi-lipoxin A4 (eLXA4) in the reduction of stiffness-dependent exacerbation of the inflammatory process. Atomic force microscopy measurements of live lung slices were used to directly measure local tissue stiffness changes induced by intratracheal injection of LPS. Effects of LPS on ECM properties and inflammatory response were evaluated in an animal model of LPS-induced lung injury, live lung tissue slices, and pulmonary endothelial cell (EC) culture. In vivo, LPS increased perivascular stiffness in lung slices monitored by atomic force microscopy and stimulated expression of ECM proteins fibronectin, collagen I, and ECM crosslinker enzyme, lysyl oxidase. Increased stiffness and ECM remodeling escalated LPS-induced VCAM1 and ICAM1 expression and IL-8 production by lung ECs. Stiffness-dependent exacerbation of inflammatory signaling was confirmed in pulmonary ECs grown on substrates with high and low stiffness. eLXA4 inhibited LPS-increased stiffness in lung cross sections, attenuated stiffness-dependent enhancement of EC inflammatory activation, and restored lung compliance in vivo. This study shows that increased local vascular stiffness exacerbates lung inflammation. Attenuation of local stiffening of lung vasculature represents a novel mechanism of lipoxin antiinflammatory action.
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Thomas SF, Rooks P, Rudin F, Atkinson S, Goddard P, Bransgrove RM, Mason PT, Allen MJ. A comparison between ultraviolet disinfection and copper alginate beads within a vortex bioreactor for the deactivation of bacteria in simulated waste streams with high levels of colour, humic acid and suspended solids. PLoS One 2014; 9:e115688. [PMID: 25541706 PMCID: PMC4277313 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0115688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We show in this study that the combination of a swirl flow reactor and an antimicrobial agent (in this case copper alginate beads) is a promising technique for the remediation of contaminated water in waste streams recalcitrant to UV-C treatment. This is demonstrated by comparing the viability of both common and UV-C resistant organisms in operating conditions where UV-C proves ineffective - notably high levels of solids and compounds which deflect UV-C. The swirl flow reactor is easy to construct from commonly available plumbing parts and may prove a versatile and powerful tool in waste water treatment in developing countries.
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Jensen CN, Ali ST, Allen MJ, Grogan G. Exploring nicotinamide cofactor promiscuity in NAD(P)H-dependent flavin containing monooxygenases (FMOs) using natural variation within the phosphate binding loop. Structure and activity of FMOs from Cellvibrio sp. BR and Pseudomonas stutzeri NF13. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 109:191-198. [PMID: 25383040 PMCID: PMC4220118 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcatb.2014.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/30/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Genes encoding ‘Type II FMOs’ CFMO and PSFMO were selected for diversity in the NADPH binding loop. CFMO and PSFMO were shown to both accept either NADH or NADPH as cofactor in the reduction of FAD. The activities with both NADPH and NADH have been evaluated in the oxidation of sulfide substrates. Structures of CFMO and PSFMO were solved, revealing the nature of the NADPH phosphate binding loop.
Flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs) catalyse asymmetric oxidation reactions that have potential for preparative organic synthesis, but most use the more expensive, phosphorylated nicotinamide cofactor NADPH to reduce FAD to FADH2 prior to formation of the (hydro)peroxy intermediate required for substrate oxygenation. A comparison of the structures of NADPH-dependent FMO from Methylophaga aminisulfidivorans (mFMO) and SMFMO from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, which is able to use both NADPH and NADH, suggested that the promiscuity of the latter enzyme may be due in part to the substitution of an Arg–Thr couple in the NADPH phosphate recognition site in mFMO, for a Gln–His couple in SMFMO (Jensen et al., 2012, Chembiochem, 13, 872–878). Natural variation within the phosphate binding region, and its influence on nicotinamide cofactor promiscuity, was explored through the cloning, expression, characterisation and structural studies of FMOs from Cellvibrio sp. BR (CFMO) and Pseudomonas stutzeri NF13 (PSFMO), which possess Thr–Ser and Gln–Glu in the putative phosphate recognition positions, respectively. CFMO and PSFMO displayed 5- and 1.5-fold greater activity, respectively, than SMFMO for the reduction of FAD with NADH, and were also cofactor promiscuous, displaying a ratio of activity with NADH:NADPH of 1.7:1 and 1:1.3, respectively. The structures of CFMO and PSFMO revealed the context of the phosphate binding loop in each case, and also clarified the structure of the mobile helix–loop–helix motif that appears to shield the FAD-binding pocket from bulk solvent in this class of FMOs, a feature that was absent from the structure of SMFMO.
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Pagarete A, Kusonmano K, Petersen K, Kimmance SA, Martínez Martínez J, Wilson WH, Hehemann JH, Allen MJ, Sandaa RA. Dip in the gene pool: metagenomic survey of natural coccolithovirus communities. Virology 2014; 466-467:129-37. [PMID: 24947907 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2014.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite the global oceanic distribution and recognised biogeochemical impact of coccolithoviruses (EhV), their diversity remains poorly understood. Here we employed a metagenomic approach to study the occurrence and progression of natural EhV community genomic variability. Analysis of EhV metagenomes from the early and late stages of an induced bloom led to three main discoveries. First, we observed resilient and specific genomic signatures in the EhV community associated with the Norwegian coast, which reinforce the existence of limitations to the capacity of dispersal and genomic exchange among EhV populations. Second, we identified a hyper-variable region (approximately 21kbp long) in the coccolithovirus genome. Third, we observed a clear trend for EhV relative amino-acid diversity to reduce from early to late stages of the bloom. This study validated two new methodological combinations, and proved very useful in the discovery of new genomic features associated with coccolithovirus natural communities.
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Allen MJ, Sheridan SC. High-mortality days during the winter season: comparing meteorological conditions across 5 US cities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2014; 58:217-225. [PMID: 23417344 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-013-0640-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2012] [Revised: 01/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/31/2013] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
While the relationship between weather and human health has been studied from various perspectives, this study examines an alternative method of analysis by examining weather conditions on specific high-mortality days during the winter season. These high-mortality days, by definition, represent days with dramatic increases in mortality and the days with the highest mortality. By focusing solely on high-mortality days, this research examines the relationship between weather variables and mortality through a synoptic climatology, environment-to circulation approach. The atmospheric conditions during high-mortality days were compared to the days prior and the days not classified as high-mortality days. Similar patterns emerged across all five locations despite the spatial and temporal variability. Southern locations had a stronger relationship with temperature changes while northern locations showed a greater relationship to atmospheric pressure. Overall, all high-mortality days were associated with warmer temperatures, decreased pressure, and a greater likelihood of precipitation when compared to the previous subset of days. While the atmospheric conditions were consistent across all locations, the importance of the lag effect should not be overlooked as a contributing factor to mortality during the winter season. Through a variety of diverse, methodological approaches, future studies may build upon these results and explore in more detail the complex relationship between weather situations and the impact of short-term changes in weather and health outcomes.
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Jensen CN, Ali ST, Allen MJ, Grogan G. Mutations of an NAD(P)H-dependent flavoprotein monooxygenase that influence cofactor promiscuity and enantioselectivity. FEBS Open Bio 2013; 3:473-8. [PMID: 24251114 PMCID: PMC3829993 DOI: 10.1016/j.fob.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Revised: 09/21/2013] [Accepted: 09/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The flavoprotein monooxygenase (FPMO) from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (SMFMO, Uniprot: B2FLR2) catalyses the asymmetric oxidation of thioethers and is unusual amongst FPMOs in its ability to use the non-phosphorylated cofactor NADH, as well as NADPH, for the reduction of the FAD coenzyme. In order to explore the basis for cofactor promiscuity, structure-guided mutation of two residues in the cofactor binding site, Gln193 and His194, in SMFMO were performed in an attempt to imitate the cofactor binding site of the NADPH-dependent FMO from Methylophaga aminisulfidivorans sp. SK1 (mFMO), in which structurally homologous residues Arg234 and Thr235 bind the NADPH 2′-ribose phosphate. Mutation of His194 to threonine proved most significant, with a switch in specificity from NADH to NADPH [(kcat/Km NADH)/kcat/Km NADPH) from 1.5:1 to 1:3.5, mostly as a result of a reduced Km for NADPH of approximately sevenfold in the His194Thr mutant. The structure of the Gln193Arg/His194Thr mutant revealed no substantial changes in the backbone of the enzyme or orientation of side chains resulting from mutation. Mutation of Phe52, in the vicinity of FAD, and which in mFMO is an asparagine thought to be responsible for flavin hydroperoxide stabilisation, is, in SMFMO, a determinant of enantioselectivity in sulfoxidation. Mutation of Phe52 to valine resulted in a mutant that transformed para-tolyl methyl sulfide into the (S)-sulfoxide with 32% e.e., compared to 25% (R)- for the wild type. These results shed further light both on the cofactor specificity of FPMOs, and their determinants of enantioselectivity, with a view to informing engineering studies of FPMOs in the future. SMFMO was mutated to investigate cofactor specificity and enantioselectivity. The Gln193Arg/His194Thr mutant displayed a preference for NADPH, rather than NADH. The structure of the Gln193Arg/His194Thr mutant was determined. Active site mutants were assessed for enantioselectivity in sulfoxidation reactions. The Phe52Val mutant displayed inverted enantioselectivity.
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Nissimov JI, Jones M, Napier JA, Munn CB, Kimmance SA, Allen MJ. Functional inferences of environmental coccolithovirus biodiversity. Virol Sin 2013; 28:291-302. [PMID: 24006045 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-013-3362-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The cosmopolitan calcifying alga Emiliania huxleyi is one of the most abundant bloom forming coccolithophore species in the oceans and plays an important role in global biogeochemical cycling. Coccolithoviruses are a major cause of coccolithophore bloom termination and have been studied in laboratory, mesocosm and open ocean studies. However, little is known about the dynamic interactions between the host and its viruses, and less is known about the natural diversity and role of functionally important genes within natural coccolithovirus communities. Here, we investigate the temporal and spatial distribution of coccolithoviruses by the use of molecular fingerprinting techniques PCR, DGGE and genomic sequencing. The natural biodiversity of the virus genes encoding the major capsid protein (MCP) and serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT) were analysed in samples obtained from the Atlantic Meridional Transect (AMT), the North Sea and the L4 site in the Western Channel Observatory. We discovered nine new coccolithovirus genotypes across the AMT and L4 site, with the majority of MCP sequences observed at the deep chlorophyll maximum layer of the sampled sites on the transect. We also found four new SPT gene variations in the North Sea and at L4. Their translated fragments and the full protein sequence of SPT from laboratory strains EhV-86 and EhV-99B1 were modelled and revealed that the theoretical fold differs among strains. Variation identified in the structural distance between the two domains of the SPT protein may have an impact on the catalytic capabilities of its active site. In summary, the combined use of 'standard' markers (i.e. MCP), in combination with metabolically relevant markers (i.e. SPT) are useful in the study of the phylogeny and functional biodiversity of coccolithoviruses, and can provide an interesting intracellular insight into the evolution of these viruses and their ability to infect and replicate within their algal hosts.
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Foss K, da Costa RC, Rajala-Schuttz PJ, Rajala-Shultz PJ, Allen MJ. Force plate gait analysis in Doberman Pinschers with and without cervical spondylomyelopathy. J Vet Intern Med 2012; 27:106-11. [PMID: 23278957 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.12025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Revised: 09/13/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The most accepted means of evaluating the response of a patient with cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) to treatment is subjective and based on the owner and clinician's perception of the gait. OBJECTIVE To establish and compare kinetic parameters based on force plate gait analysis between normal and CSM-affected Dobermans. ANIMALS Nineteen Doberman Pinschers: 10 clinically normal and 9 with CSM. METHODS Force plate analysis was prospectively performed in all dogs. At least 4 runs of ipsilateral limbs were collected from each dog. Eight force platform parameters were evaluated, including peak vertical force (PVF) and peak vertical impulse (PVI), peak mediolateral force (PMLF) and peak mediolateral impulse, peak braking force and peak braking impulse, and peak propulsive force (PPF) and peak propulsive impulse. In addition, the coefficient of variation (CV) for each limb was calculated for each parameter. Data analysis was performed by a repeated measures approach. RESULTS PMLF (P = .0062), PVI (P = .0225), and PPF (P = .0408) were found to be lower in CSM-affected dogs compared with normal dogs. Analysis by CV as the outcome indicated more variability in PVF in CSM-affected dogs (P = 0.0045). The largest difference in the CV of PVF was seen in the thoracic limbs of affected dogs when compared with the thoracic limbs of normal dogs (P = 0.0019). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE The CV of PVF in all 4 limbs, especially the thoracic limbs, distinguished clinically normal Dobermans from those with CSM. Other kinetic parameters less reliably distinguished CSM-affected from clinically normal Dobermans.
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Zhao Q, Allen MJ, Wang Y, Wang B, Wang N, Shi L, Sitrin RD. Disassembly and reassembly improves morphology and thermal stability of human papillomavirus type 16 virus-like particles. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2012; 8:1182-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2012.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Revised: 12/29/2011] [Accepted: 01/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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