Clinical, imaging, and pathological characteristics of congenital infiltrating lipomatosis of the face

Congenital infiltrating lipomatosis of the face (CILF) is a rare congenital disease of the head and neck region. In this study, the cases of 20 patients diagnosed with CILF were reviewed retrospectively to analyse the characteristics of the disease. The symptoms, signs, and clinical progression were investigated. Radiological changes were analysed according to the distribution of the trigeminal nerve. The pathological features of the fatty facial lesions, jaw hyperplasia, and lingual lesions were further identified. All 20 patients demonstrated hemifacial hypertrophy at birth. None had a family history of the disease. Significant radiological features of CILF (prevalence ≥90%) included thickened buccal subcutaneous fat, palatal submucosal fat, and temporal subcutaneous fat, maxillary tuberosity heteroplasia, and fatty infiltration of the masseteric intermuscular space. With regard to the trigeminal nerve, the frontal branch region (CNV1) was rarely affected, while the maxillary (CNV2) and mandibular (CNV3) branch regions showed considerable changes. Pathologically, CILF was observed to be characterized by the infiltration of mature adipose tissue into the adjacent buccal soft tissue, osteal remodelling surrounded by sheets of mature lipocytes and supporting fibrovascular stroma, and lingual hamartoma. In summary, CILF exhibits distinct characteristics that are related to the regions controlled by the maxillary and mandibular branches of the trigeminal nerve, suggesting that CILF may be associated with early neural development.

Fungal Microbiome of Alive and Dead Korean Fir in its Native Habitats

A rapid decline of Abies koreana has been reported in most of the natural alpine habitats in Korea. It is generally accepted that this phenomenon is due to climate change even though no clear conclusions have been drawn. Most research has focused on abiotic environmental factors, but studies on the relationships between A. koreana and soil fungal microbiomes are scarce. In this study, the rhizoplane and rhizosphere fungal communities in the alive and dead Korean fir trees from its three major natural habitats including Mt. Deogyu, Mt. Halla, and Mt. Jiri in Korea were investigated to identify specific soil fungal groups closely associated with A. koreana. Soil fungal diversity in each study site was significantly different from another based on the beta diversity calculations. Heat tree analysis at the genus level showed that Clavulina, Beauveria, and Tomentella were most abundant in the healthy trees probably by forming ectomycorrhizae with Korean fir growth and controlling pests and diseases. However, Calocera, Dacrymyces, Gyoerffyella, Hydnotrya, Microdochium, Hyaloscypha, Mycosymbioces, and Podospora were abundant in the dead trees. Our findings suggested that Clavulina, Beauveria, and Tomentella are the major players that could be considered in future reforestation programs to establish ectomycorrhizal networks and promote growth. These genera may have played a significant role in the survival and growth of A. koreana in its natural habitats. In particular, the genus Gyoerffyella may account for the death of the seedlings. Our work presented exploratory research on the specific fungal taxa associated with the status of A. koreana.

Temporal Structures in Positron Spectra and Charge-Sign Effects in Galactic Cosmic Rays

We present the precision measurements of 11 years of daily cosmic positron fluxes in the rigidity range from 1.00 to 41.9 GV based on 3.4×10^{6} positrons collected with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS) aboard the International Space Station. The positron fluxes show distinctly different time variations from the electron fluxes at short and long timescales. A hysteresis between the electron fluxes and the positron fluxes is observed with a significance greater than 5σ at rigidities below 8.5 GV. On the contrary, the positron fluxes and the proton fluxes show similar time variation. Remarkably, we found that positron fluxes are modulated more than proton fluxes with a significance greater than 5σ for rigidities below 7 GV. These continuous daily positron fluxes, together with AMS daily electron, proton, and helium fluxes over an 11-year solar cycle, provide unique input to the understanding of both the charge-sign and mass dependencies of cosmic rays in the heliosphere.

Properties of Cosmic-Ray Sulfur and Determination of the Composition of Primary Cosmic-Ray Carbon, Neon, Magnesium, and Sulfur: Ten-Year Results from the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer

We report the properties of primary cosmic-ray sulfur (S) in the rigidity range 2.15 GV to 3.0 TV based on 0.38×10^{6} sulfur nuclei collected by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer experiment (AMS). We observed that above 90 GV the rigidity dependence of the S flux is identical to the rigidity dependence of Ne-Mg-Si fluxes, which is different from the rigidity dependence of the He-C-O-Fe fluxes. We found that, similar to N, Na, and Al cosmic rays, over the entire rigidity range, the traditional primary cosmic rays S, Ne, Mg, and C all have sizeable secondary components, and the S, Ne, and Mg fluxes are well described by the weighted sum of the primary silicon flux and the secondary fluorine flux, and the C flux is well described by the weighted sum of the primary oxygen flux and the secondary boron flux. The primary and secondary contributions of the traditional primary cosmic-ray fluxes of C, Ne, Mg, and S (even Z elements) are distinctly different from the primary and secondary contributions of the N, Na, and Al (odd Z elements) fluxes. The abundance ratio at the source for S/Si is 0.167±0.006, for Ne/Si is 0.833±0.025, for Mg/Si is 0.994±0.029, and for C/O is 0.836±0.025. These values are determined independent of cosmic-ray propagation.

Four Unrecorded Aspergillus Species from the Rhizosphere Soil in South Korea

The genus Aspergillus is commonly isolated from various marine and terrestrial environments; however, only a few species have been studied in rhizosphere soil. As part of the Korean indigenous fungal excavation project, we investigated fungal diversity from rhizosphere soil, focusing on Aspergillus species. A total of 13 strains were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of three different plants. Based on phylogenetic analysis of β-tubulin and calmodulin and morphological characteristics, we identified five Aspergillus species. A. calidoustus and A. pseudodeflectus were commonly isolated from the rhizosphere soil. Four species were confirmed as unrecorded species in Korea: A. calidoustus, A. dimorphicus, A. germanicus, and A. pseudodeflecuts. The detailed morphological descriptions of these unrecorded species are provided.

Geographical Isolation and Root-Associated Fungi in the Marine Terrains: A Step Toward Establishing a Strategy for Acquiring Unique Microbial Resources

This study aimed to understand whether the geo-ecological segregation of native plant species affects the root-associated fungal community. Rhizoplane (RP) and rhizosphere (RS) fungal microbiota of Sedum takesimense native to three geographically segregated coastal regions (volcanic ocean islands) were analyzed using culture-independent methods: 568,507 quality sequences, 1399 operational taxonomic units, five phyla, and 181 genera were obtained. Across all regions, significant differences in the phyla distribution and ratio were confirmed. The Chao's richness value was greater for RS than for RP, and this variance coincided with the number of genera. In contrast, the dominance of specific genera in the RS (Simpson value) was lower than the RP at all sites. The taxonomic identity of most fungal species (95%) closely interacting with the common host plant was different. Meanwhile, a considerable number of RP only residing fungal genera were thought to have close interdependency on their host halophyte. Among these, Metarhizium was the sole genus common to all sites. These suggest that the relationship between potential symbiotic fungi and their host halophyte species evolved with a regional dependency, in the same halophyte species, and of the same natural habitat (volcanic islands); further, the fungal community differenced in distinct geographical regions. Importantly, geographical segregation should be accounted for in national culture collections, based on taxonomical uniqueness.

Biodegradative Activities of Fungal Strains Isolated from Terrestrial Environments in Korea

Polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) are commercially available bioplastics that are exploited worldwide, and both are biodegradable. The PLA and PCL polymer-degrading activity of 30 fungal strains that were isolated from terrestrial environments were screened based on the formation of a clear zone around fungal colonies on agar plates containing emulsified PLA or PCL. Among them, five strains yielded positive results of biodegradation. Strains Korean Agricultural Culture Collection (KACC) 83034BP and KNUF-20-PPH03 exhibited PCL degradation; two other strains, KACC 83035BP and KNUF-20-PDG05, degraded PLA; and the fifth strain, KACC 83036BP, biodegraded both tested plastics. Based on phylogenetic analyses using various combinations of the sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, RPB2, LSU, CAL, and β-TUB genes, the above-mentioned strains were identified as Apiotrichum porosum, Penicillium samsonianum, Talaromyces pinophilus, Purpureocillium lilacinum, and Fusicolla acetilerea, respectively. Based on our knowledge, this is the first report on (i) plastic biodegraders among Apiotrichum and Fusicolla species, (ii) the capability of T. pinophilus to degrade biodegradable plastics, (iii) the biodegradative activity of P. samsonianum against PCL, and (iv) the accurate identification of P. lilacinum as a PLA biodegrader. Further studies should be conducted to determine how the fungal species can be utilized in Korea.

Penicillium ulleungdoense sp. nov. from Ulleung Island in Korea

In a study of the fungal diversity on Ulleung Island in Korea, three novel strains of Penicillium were isolated. Different sites on Ulleung Island were selected for collecting endophytic fungi, and three endophytic fungal strains showed unique morphological characteristics. DNA sequence of the internal transcribed spacer, β-tubulin, calmodulin, and RNA polymerase II second largest subunit regions of the strains were analyzed and they showed unique taxonomic position from the other species of Penicillium section Sclerotiora. The new strains were named Penicillium ulleungdoense sp. nov. As the novel endophytic Penicillium taxa were discovered in a unique environment, the data could be meaningful for understanding the geographical distribution of Ascomycetes on Ulleung Island.

Penicillium from Rhizosphere Soil in Terrestrial and Coastal Environments in South Korea

Penicillium, the most common genus plays an important ecological role in various terrestrial and marine environments. However, only a few species have been reported from rhizosphere soil. As part of a project to excavate Korean indigenous fungi, we investigated rhizosphere soil of six plants in the forest (terrestrial habitat) and sand dunes (coastal habitat) and focused on discovering Penicillium species. A total of 64 strains were isolated and identified as 26 Penicillium species in nine sections based on morphological characteristics and the sequence analysis of β-tubulin and calmodulin. Although this is a small-scale study in a limited rhizosphere soil, eight unrecorded species and four potential new species have been identified. In addition, most Penicillium species from rhizosphere soil were unique to each plant. Penicillium halotolerans, P. scabrosum, P. samsonianum, P. jejuense, and P. janczewskii were commonly isolated from rhizosphere soil. Eight Penicillium species, P. aurantioviolaceum, P. bissettii, P. cairnsense, P. halotolerans, P. kananaskense, P. ortum, P. radiatolobatum, and P. verhagenii were recorded for the first time in Korea. Here, we provide the detailed morphological description of these unrecorded species.

A New Species of Thelonectria and a New Record of Cephalotrichum hinnuleum from Gunwi and Ulleungdo in Korea

Three fungal strains belonging to the class Sordariomycetes were isolated from soils collected from Gyeongsangbuk-do in Korea. They were identified as Cephalotrichum hinnuleum (UD CT 1-3-3 and KNU-19GWF1) and Thelonectria chlamydospora sp. nov. (UD ST 1-2-1). T. chlamydospora sp. nov. was morphologically identical to T. truncata, but its specific macroconidial dimensions, lower number of septations, and chlamydospore diameter render it distinct from the strains of the genus Thelonectria. The strains UD CT 1-3-3 and KNU-19GWF1 were developed flat, velvety to felty, and golden gray to brown-gray after 14 days of incubation at 25 °C on PDA. These strains were produced polyblastic conidiogenous cells and conidia were pale brown to brown, smooth, thin-walled, subglobose to ellipsoidal, arranged in chains, and the diameters of 6.7-9.0 × 3.7-5.1 μm. The strains were also confirmed by using the multi-locus genes using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions, partial large subunit (LSU), translation elongation factor 1α (TEF1-α), β-tubulin (TUB2), and actin (ACT) genes. This is the discovery of T. chlamydospora sp. nov. and Cephalotrichum hinnuleum, a new record from Korea.

Fungal Clusters and Their Uniqueness in Geographically Segregated Wetlands: A Step Forward to Marsh Conservation for a Wealth of Future Fungal Resources

Here, we investigated fungal microbiota in the understory root layer of representative well-conserved geographically segregated natural wetlands in the Korean Peninsula. We obtained 574,143 quality fungal sequences in total from soil samples in three wetlands, which were classified into 563 operational taxonomic units (OTU), 5 phyla, 84 genera. Soil texture, total nitrogen, organic carbon, pH, and electrical conductivity of soil were variable between geographical sites. We found significant differences in fungal phyla distribution and ratio, as well as genera variation and richness between the wetlands. Diversity was greater in the Jangdo islands wetland than in the other sites (Chao richness/Shannon/Simpson's for wetland of the Jangdo islands: 283/6.45/0.97 > wetland of the Mt. Gariwang primeval forest: 169/1.17/0.22 > wetland of the Hanbando geology: 145/4.85/0.91), and this variance corresponded to the confirmed number of fungal genera or OTUs (wetlands of Jangdo islands: 42/283 > of Mt. Gariwang primeval forest: 32/169 > of the Hanbando geology: 25/145). To assess the uniqueness of the understory root layer fungus taxa, we analyzed fungal genera distribution. We found that the percentage of fungal genera common to two or three wetland sites was relatively low at 32.3%, while fungal genera unique to each wetland site was 67.7% of the total number of identified fungal species. The Jangdo island wetland had higher fungal diversity than did the other sites and showed the highest level of uniqueness among fungal genera (Is. Jangdo wetland: 34.5% > wetland of Mt. Gariwang primeval forest: 28.6% > wetland of the Hanbando geology: 16.7%).

Microbial control measures for soft ice cream in franchise brands: A comparative analysis of microbial analysis and manufacturing practices

The aim of this study was to establish a complementary direction of the franchise food hygiene guideline to control microbial risks. We evaluated current measures of preventing microbial spoilage and ensuring microbiological safety of food in the food franchise industry. Manufacturing practices were assessed using microbiological analyses, third‐party food safety audits, and existing hygiene guidelines. Microbial load indicators of food, manufacturing processes, work environment, and workers were also analyzed to track microbial proliferation. We audited manufacturing practices and processes and analyzed the cleaning and sanitation clauses. We found high contamination of heterotrophic bacteria and detected coliforms in some products. There was no direct contamination by food handlers, and the sterility of raw materials was satisfactory. The main issues were structural complexities of equipment, which hindered cleaning and disinfection, and disinfection practices of franchise brands. Store‐level microbial control may be compromised due to the industrial nature of small stores operating collectively. We thus issued complementary guidelines. Improved collective microbiological safety may be ensured through implementation of the revised cleaning and sterilization regulations.

Talaromyces halophytorum sp. nov. Isolated from Roots of Limonium tetragonum in Korea

Talaromyces halophytorum sp. nov. was isolated from the roots of halophyte Limonium tetragonum collected from Seocheon-gun, Korea in November 2015. It showed a slow growth on yeast extract sucrose agar at 25 °C, no growth at 4 °C or 37 °C and produced smooth-walled and globose to sub-globose conidia. T. halophytorum is phylogenetically distinct from the other reported Talaromyces species of section Trachyspermi based on multi-locus sequence typing results using partial fragments of β-tubulin, calmodulin, ITS, and RNA polymerase II genes.

Molecular Imaging of the Glomerulus via Mesangial Cell Uptake of Radiolabeled Tilmanocept

An unmet need for the clinical management of chronic kidney disease is a predictive tool of kidney function during the first decade of the disease, when there is silent loss of glomerular function. The objective of this study was to demonstrate receptor-mediated binding of tilmanocept to CD206 within the kidney and provide evidence of kinetic sensitivity of this binding to renal function. Methods: Rats were positioned in a PET scanner with the liver and kidneys within the field of view. After an intravenous injection of 68Ga-IRDye800-tilmanocept, using 1 of 2 scaled molar doses (0.02 nmol/g, n = 5; or 0.10 nmol/g, n = 5), or coinjection (n = 3) of 68Ga-IRDye800-tilmanocept (0.10 nmol/g) and unlabeled tilmanocept (5.0 nmol/g), or a negative control, 68Ga-IRDye800-DTPA-galactosyl-dextran (0.02 nmol/g, n = 5), each animal was imaged for 20 min followed by a whole-body scan. Frozen kidney sections were stained for podocytes and CD206 using immunofluorescence. Molecular imaging of diabetic db/db mice (4.9 wk, n = 6; 7.3 wk, n = 4; 13.3 wk, n = 6) and nondiabetic db/m mice (n = 6) was performed with fluorescence-labeled 99mTc-tilmanocept (18.5 MBq, 2.6 nmol). Thirty minutes after injection, blood, liver, kidneys, and urine were assayed for radioactivity. Renal time-activity curves were generated. Results: Rat PET whole-body images and time-activity curves of 68Ga-IRDye800-tilmanocept demonstrated receptor-mediated renal accumulation with evidence of glomerular uptake. Activity within the renal cortex persisted during the 40-min study. Histologic examination demonstrated colocalization of CD206 and IRDye800-tilmanocept within the glomerulus. The glomerular accumulation of the coinjection and the negative control studies were significantly less than the CD206-targeted agent. The db/db mice displayed a multiphasic renal time-activity curve with high urinary bladder accumulation; the nondiabetic mice exhibited renal uptake curves dominated by a single phase with low bladder accumulation. Conclusion: This study demonstrated receptor-mediated binding to the glomerular mesangial cells and kinetic sensitivity of tilmanocept to chronic renal disease. Given the role of mesangial cells during the progression of diabetic nephropathy, PET or SPECT renal imaging with radiolabeled tilmanocept may provide a noninvasive quantitative assessment of glomerular function.

[Surface morphology and surface properties of Ti and TiZr implant materials]

Objective: To investigate the effects of hydrophilic treatment on the surface morphology and surface properties of pure titanium and titanium-zirconium alloy implants, and to provide reference for the studies of implant surface modification. Methods: The pure titanium group, the hydrophilic pure titanium group, the titanium zirconium alloy group and the hydrophilic titanium-zirconium alloy group were prepared by sandblasting and acid-etching or hydrophilic sandblasting and acid-etching, (11 specimens in each group). The surface morphology and surface properties of four types of titanium specimens were analyzed by surface contact angle meter, scanning electron microscope (SEM), optical profilometer, atomic force microscope (AFM) and Raman spectrometer. Results: The surface contact angles of hydrophilic pure titanium and hydrophilic titanium-zirconium alloy were 1.6°±0.3° and 1.5°±0.2°, and the surface contact angles of pure titanium and titanium-zirconium alloy were 101.4°±4.6° and 96.2°±3.0°, respectively. SEM showed that the nano-protrusions on the surface of pure titanium and titanium-zirconium alloys were less or even absent, while the nano-protrusions on the surface of hydrophilic pure titanium and hydrophilic titanium-zirconium alloys were relatively more; the nano-protrusions on the surface of hydrophilic pure titanium surface were small and dense relatively, but the nano-protrusions of the hydrophilic titanium-zirconium alloy had large diameters and were dispersed relatively. The optical profiler and AFM showed that the surface roughness of hydrophilic pure titanium and hydrophilic titanium-zirconium alloy was significantly higher than that of pure titanium and titanium-zirconium alloy (P<0.05). Raman spectroscopy showed that only the amorphous TiO(2) was present on the surface of the pure titanium group, while the rutile TiO(2) characteristic peak was observed in the other three groups, but the lateral inhomogeneity was observed. After Raman shift 610 cm(-1), the Raman spectra of four groups were similar. Conclusions: Hydrophilic sandblasting and acid-etching treatment can improve the surface hydrophilicity and surface roughness of pure titanium and titanium zirconium alloy, and improve the surface properties of pure titanium and titanium zirconium alloy implants.

A strategy for securing unique microbial resources – focusing on Dokdo islands-derived microbial resources

This review focuses on the state of research on the microbial resources of Dokdo, Korea, as a strategy for securing national microbial resources. In the Korean peninsula, studies aimed at securing microbial resources are carried out across diverse natural environments, especially in the Dokdo islands. Until 2017, a total of 61 novel microbial genera, species, or newly recorded strains have been reported. Among these, 10 new taxa have had their whole genome sequenced and published, in order to find novel useful genes. Additionally, there have been multiple reports of bacteria with novel characteristics, including promoting plant growth or inducing systemic resistance in plants, calcite-forming ability, electrical activation, and production of novel enzymes. Furthermore, fundamental studies on microbial communities help to secure and define microbial resources in the Dokdo islands. This study will propose several tactics, based on ecological principles, for securing more microbial resources to cope with the current increase in international competition for biological resources.

[Genomic diversity and population structure of Helicobacter pylori isolates in China]

Objective: To learn about the overall genomic characteristics and population structure of Helicobacter pylori isolated in China. Methods: In this study, we used 10 public available genome sequences of H. pylori strains isolated in China, combined with other H. pylori sequences from GenBank, to analyzed the overall genomic characteristics of H. pylori isolated in China. Core genes and strain specific genes were determined for a further function definition. Results: A total of 1 203 core genes were found among all sequenced China H. pylori isolates. The number of strain specific genes ranged from 19 to 32. These genes mainly encodes hypothetical proteins which might play an important role in adaption to different hosts. Genomic variation regions were mainly in genes encoding type four secretion systems and restriction modification systems. All the China isolates belong to hpEastAsia group, hspEAsia subgroup. Prophages sequences were found in three China H. pylori strains, carrying key elements required for phage assembly. Conclusion: China H. pylori isolates belong to hpEastAsia group, hspEAsia subgroup, and some isolates contain prophages.

Cutaneous Microflora from Geographically Isolated Groups of Bradysia agrestis, an Insect Vector of Diverse Plant Pathogens

Larvae of Bradysia agrestis, an insect vector that transports plant pathogens, were sampled from geographically isolated regions in Korea to identify their cutaneous fungal and bacterial flora. Sampled areas were chosen within the distribution range of B. agrestis; each site was more than 91 km apart to ensure geographical segregation. We isolated 76 microbial (fungi and bacteria) strains (site 1, 29; site 2, 29; site 3, 18 strains) that were identified on the basis of morphological differences. Species identification was molecularly confirmed by determination of universal fungal internal transcribed spacer and bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequences in comparison to sequences in the EzTaxon database and the NCBI GenBank database, and their phylogenetic relationships were determined. The fungal isolates belonged to 2 phyla, 5 classes, and 7 genera; bacterial species belonged to 23 genera and 32 species. Microbial diversity differed significantly among the geographical groups with respect to Margalef's richness (3.9, 3.6, and 4.5), Menhinick's index (2.65, 2.46, and 3.30), Simpson's index (0.06, 0.12, and 0.01), and Shannon's index (2.50, 2.17, and 2.58). Although the microbial genera distribution or diversity values clearly varied among geographical groups, common genera were identified in all groups, including the fungal genus Cladosporium, and the bacterial genera Bacillus and Rhodococcus. According to classic principles of co-evolutionary relationship, these genera might have a closer association with their host insect vector B. agrestis than other genera identified. Some cutaneous bacterial genera (e.g., Pseudomonas) displaying weak interdependency with insect vectors may be hazardous to agricultural environments via mechanical transmission via B. agrestis. This study provides comprehensive information regarding the cutaneous microflora of B. agrestis, which can help in the control of such pests for crop management.

Distribution, Characterization, and Diversity of the Endophytic Fungal Communities on Korean Seacoasts Showing Contrasting Geographic Conditions

This study analyzed the distribution of endophytic fungi in 3 coastal environments with different climatic, geographical, and geological characteristics: the volcanic islands of Dokdo, the East Sea, and the West Sea of Korea. The isolated fungal endophytes were characterized and analyzed with respect to the characteristics of their host environments. For this purpose, we selected common native coastal halophyte communities from three regions. Molecular identification of the fungal endophytes showed clear differences among the sampling sites and halophyte host species. Isolates were also characterized by growth at specific salinities or pH gradients, with reference to previous geographical, geological, and climate studies. Unlike the East Sea or West Sea isolates, some Dokdo Islands isolates showed endurable traits with growth in high salinity, and many showed growth under extremely alkaline conditions. A smaller proportion of West Sea coast isolates tolerate compared to the East Sea or Dokdo Islands isolates. These results suggest that these unique fungal biota developed through a close interaction between the host halophyte and their environment, even within the same halophyte species. Therefore, this study proposes the application of specific fungal resources for restoring sand dunes and salt-damaged agricultural lands and industrialization of halophytic plants.

Plant growth promoting effect of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens H-2-5 on crop plants and influence on physiological changes in soybean under soil salinity

This study was aimed to identify plant growth-promoting bacterial isolates from soil samples and to investigate their ability to improve plant growth and salt tolerance by analysing phytohormones production and phosphate solubilisation. Among the four tested bacterial isolates (I-2-1, H-1-4, H-2-3, and H-2-5), H-2-5 was able to enhance the growth of Chinese cabbage, radish, tomato, and mustard plants. The isolated bacterium H-2-5 was identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens H-2-5 based on 16S rDNA sequence and phylogenetic analysis. The secretion of gibberellins (GA₄, GA₈, GA₉, GA₁₉, and GA₂₀) from B. amyloliquefaciens H-2-5 and their phosphate solubilisation ability may contribute to enhance plant growth. In addition, the H-2-5-mediated mitigation of short term salt stress was tested on soybean plants that were affected by sodium chloride. Abscisic acid (ABA) produced by the H-2-5 bacterium suppressed the NaCl-induced stress effects in soybean by enhancing plant growth and GA₄ content, and by lowering the concentration of ABA, salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, and proline. These results suggest that GAs, ABA production, and the phosphate solubilisation capacity of B. amyloliquefaciens H-2-5 are important stimulators that promote plant growth through their interaction and also to improve plant growth by physiological changes in soybean at saline soil.

The effect of fermented buckwheat on producing l-carnitine- and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-enriched designer eggs

BACKGROUND

The potential of fermented buckwheat as a feed additive was studied to increase l-carnitine and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in designer eggs. Buckwheat contains high levels of lysine, methionine and glutamate, which are precursors for the synthesis of l-carnitine and GABA. Rhizopus oligosporus was used for the fermentation of buckwheat to produce l-carnitine and GABA that exert positive effects such as enhanced metabolism, antioxidant activities, immunity and blood pressure control.

RESULTS

A novel analytical method for simultaneously detecting l-carnitine and GABA was developed using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and LC/MS/MS. The fermented buckwheat extract contained 4 and 34 times more l-carnitine and GABA respectively compared with normal buckwheat. Compared with the control, the fermented buckwheat extract-fed group showed enriched l-carnitine (13.6%) and GABA (8.4%) in the yolk, though only l-carnitine was significantly different (P < 0.05). Egg production (9.4%), albumen weight (2.1%) and shell weight (5.8%) were significantly increased (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in yolk weight, and total cholesterol (1.9%) and triglyceride (4.9%) in the yolk were lowered (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Fermented buckwheat as a feed additive has the potential to produce l-carnitine- and GABA-enriched designer eggs with enhanced nutrition and homeostasis. These designer eggs pose significant potential to be utilized in superfood production and supplement industries. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Foodborne Infectious Diseases Mediated by Inappropriate Infection Control in Food Service Businesses and Relevant Countermeasures in Korea

Objectives

The objective of this review is to propose an appropriate course of action for improving the guidelines followed by food handlers for control of infection. For this purpose, previous epidemiological reports related to acute gastroenteritis in food service businesses mediated by food handlers were intensively analyzed.

Methods

Relevant studies were identified in international databases. We selected eligible papers reporting foodborne infectious disease outbreaks. Among primary literature collection, the abstract of each article was investigated to find cases that absolutely identified a causative factor to be food handlers’ inappropriate infection control and the taxon of causative microbial agents by epidemiological methodologies. Information about the sites (type of food business) where the outbreaks occurred was investigated.

Results

A wide variety of causative microbial agents has been investigated, using several epidemiological methods. These agents have shown diverse propagation pathways based on their own molecular pathogenesis, physiology, taxonomy, and etiology.

Conclusion

Depending on etiology, transmission, propagation, and microbiological traits, we can predict the transmission characteristics of pathogens in food preparation areas. The infected food workers have a somewhat different ecological place in infection epidemiology as compared to the general population. However, the current Korean Food Safety Act cannot propose detailed guidelines. Therefore, different methodologies have to be made available to prevent further infections.

Systems biology analysis reveals role of MDM2 in diabetic nephropathy

To derive new insights in diabetic complications, we integrated publicly available human protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks with global metabolic networks using metabolomic data from patients with diabetic nephropathy. We focused on the participating proteins in the network that were computationally predicted to connect the urine metabolites. MDM2 had the highest significant number of PPI connections. As validation, significant downregulation of MDM2 gene expression was found in both glomerular and tubulointerstitial compartments of kidney biopsy tissue from 2 independent cohorts of patients with diabetic nephropathy. In diabetic mice, chemical inhibition of MDM2 with Nutlin-3a led to reduction in the number of podocytes, increased blood urea nitrogen, and increased mortality. Addition of Nutlin-3a decreased WT1⁺ cells in embryonic kidneys. Both podocyte- and tubule-specific MDM2-knockout mice exhibited severe glomerular and tubular dysfunction, respectively. Interestingly, the only 2 metabolites that were reduced in both podocyte and tubule-specific MDM2-knockout mice were 3-methylcrotonylglycine and uracil, both of which were also reduced in human diabetic kidney disease. Thus, our bioinformatics tool combined with multi-omics studies identified an important functional role for MDM2 in glomeruli and tubules of the diabetic nephropathic kidney and links MDM2 to a reduction in 2 key metabolite biomarkers.

First Report of Leaf Spot Caused by Alternaria tenuissima on Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) in Korea

In July 2015, diseased leaves of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) were observed in Danyang and Gochang, Korea. The symptoms appeared as circular or irregular brown leaf spots, from which Alternaria tenuissima was isolated. The isolates were cultured on potato dextrose agar, and their morphological characteristics were observed under a light microscope. The colonies were whitish to ash colored. The pathogenicity test on healthy black chokeberry leaves produced circular brown spots, in line with the original symptoms. Molecular analyses of the ITS, GPD, RPB2, and TEF genes were conducted to confirm the identity of the pathogen. The phylogeny of the multi-gene sequences indicated that the causal agent was A. tenuissima. This study is the first report of A. tenuissima leaf spot on black chokeberry (A. melanocarpa).

Aging increases the susceptibility of hepatic inflammation, liver fibrosis and aging in response to high-fat diet in mice

We aimed to investigate whether aging increases the susceptibility of hepatic and renal inflammation or fibrosis in response to high-fat diet (HFD) and explore the underlying genetic alterations. Middle (10 months old) and old (20 months old) aged, male C57BL/6N mice were fed either a low-fat diet (4 % fat) or HFD (60 % fat) for 4 months. Young (3 months old) aged mice were included as control group. HFD-induced liver and kidney injuries were analyzed by serum and urine assay, histologic staining, immunohistochemistry, and reverse-transcription real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Total RNA sequencing with next-generation technology was done with RNA extracted from liver tissues. With HFD feeding, aged was associated with higher serum alanine aminotransferase levels, marked infiltration of hepatic macrophages, and increased expression of inflammatory cytokines (MCP1, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-17A). Importantly, aged mice showed more advanced hepatic fibrosis and increased expression of fibrogenic markers (Col-I-α1, αSMA, TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGFβRII, PDGF, PDGFRβII, TIMP1) in response to HFD. Aged mice fed on HFD also showed increased oxidative stress and TLR4 expression. In the total RNA seq and gene ontology analysis of liver, old-aged HFD group showed significant up-regulation of genes linked to innate immune response, immune response, defense response, inflammatory response compared to middle-aged HFD group. Meanwhile, aging and HFD feeding showed significant increase in glomerular size and mesangial area, higher urine albumin/creatinine ratio, and advanced renal inflammation or fibrosis. However, the difference of HFD-induced renal injury between old-aged group and middle-aged group was not significant. The susceptibility of hepatic fibrosis as well as hepatic inflammation in response to HFD was significantly increased with aging. In addition, aging was associated with glomerular alterations and increased renal inflammation or fibrosis, while the differential effect of aging on HFD-induced renal injury was not remarkable as shown in the liver.

Enterococcus faecium LKE12 Cell-Free Extract Accelerates Host Plant Growth via Gibberellin and Indole-3-Acetic Acid Secretion

The use of microbial extracts containing plant hormones is a promising technique to improve crop growth. Little is known about the effect of bacterial cell-free extracts on plant growth promotion. This study, based on phytohormonal analyses, aimed at exploring the potential mechanisms by which Enterococcus faecium LKE12 enhances plant growth in oriental melon. A bacterial strain, LKE12, was isolated from soil, and further identified as E. faecium by 16S rDNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The plant growth-promoting ability of an LKE12 bacterial culture was tested in a gibberellin (GA)-deficient rice dwarf mutant (waito-C) and a normal GA biosynthesis rice cultivar (Hwayongbyeo). E. faecium LKE12 significantly improved the length and biomass of rice shoots in both normal and dwarf cultivars through the secretion of an array of gibberellins (GA1, GA3, GA7, GA8, GA9, GA12, GA19, GA20, GA24, and GA53), as well as indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study indicating that E. faecium can produce GAs. Increases in shoot and root lengths, plant fresh weight, and chlorophyll content promoted by E. faecium LKE12 and its cell-free extract inoculated in oriental melon plants revealed a favorable interaction of E. faecium LKE12 with plants. Higher plant growth rates and nutrient contents of magnesium, calcium, sodium, iron, manganese, silicon, zinc, and nitrogen were found in cell-free extract-treated plants than in control plants. The results of the current study suggest that E. faecium LKE12 promotes plant growth by producing GAs and IAA; interestingly, the exogenous application of its cell-free culture extract can be a potential strategy to accelerate plant growth.

Diversity and Plant Growth Promoting Capacity of Endophytic Fungi Associated with Halophytic Plants from the West Coast of Korea

Five halophytic plant species, Suaeda maritima, Limonium tetragonum, Suaeda australis, Phragmites australis, and Suaeda glauca Bunge, which are native to the Muan salt marsh of South Korea, were examined for fungal endophytes by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region containing ITS1, 5.8S rRNA, and ITS2. In total, 160 endophytic fungal strains were isolated and identified from the roots of the 5 plant species. Taxonomically, all 160 strains belonged to the phyla Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Zygomycota. The most dominant genus was Fusarium, followed by the genera Penicillium and Alternaria. Subsequently, using 5 statistical methods, the diversity indices of the endophytes were determined at genus level. Among these halophytic plants, P. australis was found to host the greatest diversity of endophytic fungi. Culture filtrates of endophytic fungi were treated to Waito-C rice seedlings for plant growth-promoting effects. The fungal strain Su-3-4-3 isolated from S. glauca Bunge provide the maximum plant length (20.1 cm) in comparison with wild-type Gibberella fujikuroi (19.6 cm). Consequently, chromatographic analysis of the culture filtrate of Su-3-4-3 showed the presence of physiologically active gibberellins, GA1 (0.465 ng/mL), GA3 (1.808 ng/mL) along with other physiologically inactive GA9 (0.054 ng/mL) and GA24 (0.044 ng/mL). The fungal isolate Su-3-4-3 was identified as Talaromyces pinophilus.

Specific rhizobacterial resources: characterization and comparative analysis from contrasting coastal environments of Korea

This study analyzed the rhizobacterial distribution from two coasts, which show contrasting climates and geographical and geological characteristics, to secure specific microbial resources. Furthermore, rhizobacteria were characterized and the results were comparatively analyzed with reference to the characteristics of two coastal environments. For this purpose, three representative halophyte species communities native to the Dokdo Islands and the East Sea coast of Korea were selected. Partial identification of rhizobacteria showed a clear difference between each sampling site and halophyte. Furthermore, isolates were characterized by their growth properties under NaCl or pH gradients related with previous geographical, geological, and climatic studies of the Dokdo Islands and the East Sea coast. A high proportion of the East Sea isolates showed halotolerance, but a high proportion of Dokdo isolates shared halophilic traits. Meanwhile, a higher proportion of East Sea isolates grew at a wider range of pH values than those of the Dokdo Islands. The results of our study suggest that unique rhizobacterial resources developed under specific rhizospheric conditions derived from halophytes interacting with their specific environment, even within the same coastal halophytic species. Therefore, this study proposes the necessity of securing characterized and unique microbial resources to apply to specific environments for the purpose of recovering and restoring sand dunes or salt-damaged agricultural lands.

Diversity of Endophytic Fungi Associated with the Roots of Four Aquatic Plants Inhabiting Two Wetlands in Korea

A total of 4 aquatic plants, Eleocharis kuroguwai Ohwi, Hydrocharis dubia Backer, Salvinia natans All., and Zizania latifolia Turcz., were sampled from representative two wetlands of South Korea. A total of 38 endophytic fungal strains were isolated from aquatic plants native to the Daepyeong wetland, and 27 strains were isolated from the Jilnal wetland. The internal transcribed spacer regions of fungal isolates were sequenced and a phylogenetic analysis was performed. In addition, endophytic fungal diversity from each wetland and host plant species was deduced. A total of 25 fungal genera were purely isolated, and 16 fungal genera were isolated from each of the two wetlands. Commonly isolated genera from both wetlands were Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Clonostachys, Fusarium, Leptosphaeria, Penicillium, and Talaromyces. This study revealed that fungal diversity varied with environmental conditions and by host plant in representative two wetlands.

Penicillium koreense sp. nov., isolated from various soils in Korea

During an investigation of the fungal diversity of Korean soils, four Penicillium strains could not be assigned to any described species. The strains formed monoverticillate conidiophores with occasionally a divaricate branch. The conidia were smooth or finely rough-walled, globose to broadly ellipsoidal and 2.5-3.5 × 2.0-3.0 μm in size. Their taxonomic novelty was determined using partial β-tubulin gene sequences and the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region. The phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolates belonged to section Lanata- Divaricata and were most closely related to Penicillium raperi. Phenotypically, the strains differed from P. raperi in having longer and thicker stipes and thicker phialides. Strain KACC 47721(T) from bamboo field soil was designated as the type strain of the new species, and the species was named Penicillium koreense sp. nov., as it was isolated from various regions in Korea.

Metabolomics Reveals a Key Role for Fumarate in Mediating the Effects of NADPH Oxidase 4 in Diabetic Kidney Disease

The NADPH oxidase (NOX) isoform NOX4 has been linked with diabetic kidney disease (DKD). However, a mechanistic understanding of the downstream effects of NOX4 remains to be established. We report that podocyte-specific induction of NOX4 in vivo was sufficient to recapitulate the characteristic glomerular changes noted with DKD, including glomerular hypertrophy, mesangial matrix accumulation, glomerular basement membrane thickening, albuminuria, and podocyte dropout. Intervention with a NOX1/NOX4 inhibitor reduced albuminuria, glomerular hypertrophy, and mesangial matrix accumulation in the F1 Akita model of DKD. Metabolomic analyses from these mouse studies revealed that tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle-related urinary metabolites were increased in DKD, but fumarate levels were uniquely reduced by the NOX1/NOX4 inhibitor. Expression of fumarate hydratase (FH), which regulates urine fumarate accumulation, was reduced in the diabetic kidney (in mouse and human tissue), and administration of the NOX1/NOX4 inhibitor increased glomerular FH levels in diabetic mice. Induction of Nox4 in vitro and in the podocyte-specific NOX4 transgenic mouse led to reduced FH levels. In vitro, fumarate stimulated endoplasmic reticulum stress, matrix gene expression, and expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and TGF-β. Similar upregulation of renal HIF-1α and TGF-β expression was observed in NOX4 transgenic mice and diabetic mice and was attenuated by NOX1/NOX4 inhibition in diabetic mice. In conclusion, NOX4 is a major mediator of diabetes-associated glomerular dysfunction through targeting of renal FH, which increases fumarate levels. Fumarate is therefore a key link connecting metabolic pathways to DKD pathogenesis, and measuring urinary fumarate levels may have application for monitoring renal NOX4 activity.

Aspergillus clavatus Y2H0002 as a New Endophytic Fungal Strain Producing Gibberellins Isolated from Nymphoides pe ltata in Fresh Water

Eighteen endophytic fungi with different colony morphologies were isolated from the roots of Nymphoides peltata growing in the Dalsung wetland. The fungal culture filtrates of the endophytic fungi were treated to Waito-c rice seedling to evaluate their plant growth-promoting activities. Culture filtrate of Y2H0002 fungal strain promoted the growth of the Waito-c rice seedlings. This strain was identified on the basis of sequences of the partial internal transcribed spacer region and the partial beta-tubulin gene. Upon chromatographic analysis of the culture filtrate of Y2H0002 strain, the gibberellins (GAs: GA1, GA3, and GA4) were detected and quantified. Molecular and morphological studies identified the Y2H0002 strain as belonging to Aspergillus clavatus. These results indicated that A. clavatus improves the growth of plants and produces various GAs, and may participate in the growth of plants under diverse environmental conditions.

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation inhibits nuclear translocation of Smad4 in mesangial cells and diabetic kidneys

Diabetic nephropathy is characterized by diffuse mesangial matrix expansion and is largely dependent on the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway. Smad4 is required for TGF-β signaling; however, its regulation has not been well characterized in diabetic kidney disease. Here, we report that high glucose is sufficient to stimulate nuclear translocation of Smad4 in mesangial cells and that stimulation of the major energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) has a potent effect to block Smad4 nuclear translocation. Activation of AMPK by 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribofuranoside (AICAR) inhibited high glucose-induced and TGF-β stimulation of nuclear Smad4. To identify which of the catalytic α-subunits may be involved, small interfering (si) RNA-based inhibition of AMPK α1- or α2-subunit was employed. Inhibition of either subunit reduced overall AMPK activity and contributed to Smad4 nuclear accumulation. In an animal model of early diabetic kidney disease, induction of diabetes was found to markedly stimulate Smad4 protein levels and enhance nuclear accumulation. AMPK activation with AICAR completely prevented the upregulation of Smad4 and reduced mesangial matrix accumulation. We conclude that stimulation of Smad4 in cell culture and in in vivo models of early diabetic kidney disease is dependent on AMPK.

Phosphate Solubilizing Bacillus megaterium mj1212 Regulates Endogenous Plant Carbohydrates and Amino Acids Contents to Promote Mustard Plant Growth

The current study was conducted to explore the potential of a phosphate solubilizing soil bacterium, Bacillus megaterium mj1212 for enhancing the growth of mustard plants. The newly isolated bacterial strain mj1212 was identified as B. megaterium using phylogenetic analysis and, its phosphate solubilization ability was shown by the clear zone formation on National Botanical Research Institute's Phosphate medium. Moreover, the phosphate solubilization ability of B. megaterium mj1212 was enhanced by optimal culture conditions at pH 7.0 and 35 °C which might be due to the presence of malic and quinic acid in the culture medium. The beneficial effect of B. megaterium mj1212 in mustard plants was determined by an increasing shoot length, root length and fresh weight of plants. In the biochemical analysis revealed that chlorophyll, sucrose, glucose, fructose and amino acids (Asp, Thr, Ser, Glu, Gly, Ala, Cys, Val, Met, Ilu, Leu, Tyr, Phe, Lys, His, Arg and Pro) were higher in B. megaterium mj1212 treated plants, when compared to their control. The result of present study suggests that B. megaterium mj1212 treatment could be act as phosphate biofertilizer to improve the plant growth.

Culturable fungal endophytes isolated from the roots of coastal plants inhabiting korean East coast

Twelve plant species were collected from the east coast of Korea to identify culturable endophytes present in their roots. The fungal internal transcribe spacer (ITS) region (ITS1-5.8SrRNA-ITS2) was used as a DNA barcode for identification of fungi. A total of 194 fungal strains were identified and categorized into 31 genera. The genus Penicillium accounted for the largest number of strains, followed by the genus Aspergillus. Furthermore, using 5 statistical methods, the diversity indices of the fungi were calculated at the genus level. After comprehensive evaluation, the endophytic fungal group from Phragmites australis ranked highest in diversity analyses. Several strains responsible for plant growth and survival (Penicillium citrinum, P. funiculosum, P. janthinellum, P. restrictum, and P. simplicissimum), were also identified. This study provides basic data on the sheds light on the symbiotic relationship between coastal plants and fungi.

Cloning and mRNA expression analysis of the gene encoding phenylalanine ammonia-lyase of the ectomycorrhizal fungus Tricholoma matsutake

The ectomycorrhizal fungus Tricholoma matsutake grows symbiotically with Pinus densiflora. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (E.C. 4.3.1.24) catalyzes the conversion of L-phenylalanine to trans-cinnamic acid. The role of fungal phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, however, has not been clear until now. In this study, the gene encoding phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), which was isolated from T. matsutake, was cloned and characterized. The PAL gene (tmpal) consists of 2,160 nucleotides, coding for a polypeptide containing 719 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequence of tmpal from T. matsutake shows high identity (70%) with that from Laccaria bicolor. Comparative analysis of the PAL genes among T. matsutake and other species of the class Agaricomycetes showed that both active sites and binding sites were significantly conserved among these genes. The transcriptional analysis of the PAL gene revealed a differential gene expression pattern depending on the developmental stages (mycelium, primordium, stipe, pileus, and gills) of T. matsutake. These results suggest that the PAL gene in T. matsutake plays an important role in multiple physiological functions.

AMPK dysregulation promotes diabetes-related reduction of superoxide and mitochondrial function

Diabetic microvascular complications have been considered to be mediated by a glucose-driven increase in mitochondrial superoxide anion production. Here, we report that superoxide production was reduced in the kidneys of a steptozotocin-induced mouse model of type 1 diabetes, as assessed by in vivo real-time transcutaneous fluorescence, confocal microscopy, and electron paramagnetic resonance analysis. Reduction of mitochondrial biogenesis and phosphorylation of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) were observed in kidneys from diabetic mice. These observations were consistent with an overall reduction of mitochondrial glucose oxidation. Activity of AMPK, the major energy-sensing enzyme, was reduced in kidneys from both diabetic mice and humans. Mitochondrial biogenesis, PDH activity, and mitochondrial complex activity were rescued by treatment with the AMPK activator 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-D-ribofuranoside (AICAR). AICAR treatment induced superoxide production and was linked with glomerular matrix and albuminuria reduction in the diabetic kidney. Furthermore, diabetic heterozygous superoxide dismutase 2 (Sod2(+/-)) mice had no evidence of increased renal disease, and Ampka2(-/-) mice had increased albuminuria that was not reduced with AICAR treatment. Reduction of mitochondrial superoxide production with rotenone was sufficient to reduce AMPK phosphorylation in mouse kidneys. Taken together, these results demonstrate that diabetic kidneys have reduced superoxide and mitochondrial biogenesis and activation of AMPK enhances superoxide production and mitochondrial function while reducing disease activity.

Metabolomics reveals signature of mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetic kidney disease

Diabetic kidney disease is the leading cause of ESRD, but few biomarkers of diabetic kidney disease are available. This study used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to quantify 94 urine metabolites in screening and validation cohorts of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and CKD(DM+CKD), in patients with DM without CKD (DM-CKD), and in healthy controls. Compared with levels in healthy controls, 13 metabolites were significantly reduced in the DM+CKD cohorts (P≤0.001), and 12 of the 13 remained significant when compared with the DM-CKD cohort. Many of the differentially expressed metabolites were water-soluble organic anions. Notably, organic anion transporter-1 (OAT1) knockout mice expressed a similar pattern of reduced levels of urinary organic acids, and human kidney tissue from patients with diabetic nephropathy demonstrated lower gene expression of OAT1 and OAT3. Analysis of bioinformatics data indicated that 12 of the 13 differentially expressed metabolites are linked to mitochondrial metabolism and suggested global suppression of mitochondrial activity in diabetic kidney disease. Supporting this analysis, human diabetic kidney sections expressed less mitochondrial protein, urine exosomes from patients with diabetes and CKD had less mitochondrial DNA, and kidney tissues from patients with diabetic kidney disease had lower gene expression of PGC1α (a master regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis). We conclude that urine metabolomics is a reliable source for biomarkers of diabetic complications, and our data suggest that renal organic ion transport and mitochondrial function are dysregulated in diabetic kidney disease.

Characterization of gibberellin biosynthetic gene cluster from Fusarium proliferatum

Gibberellins (GAs) are a group of phytohormones that control many developmental processes in higher plants. We report the cloning and expression pattern of gibberellin biosynthesis genes from a new GA-producing fungus, Fusarium proliferatum (strain KGL0401). These genes sequences are deposited in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) under accession numbers EF119831, EF119832, DQ313173, DQ313174, DQ313175, DQ313176, and DQ313177. The expression level of these genes was maximal at a 0.5 M : 0.17 M carbon : nitrogen ratio, and minimal at a 0.25 M : 0.47 M carbon : nitrogen ratio.

Role of Nox2 in diabetic kidney disease

NADPH oxidase (Nox) isoforms have been implicated in contributing to diabetic microvascular complications, but the functional role of individual isoforms in diabetic kidney are unclear. Nox2, in particular, is highly expressed in phagocytes and may play a key inflammatory role in diabetic kidney disease. To determine the role of Nox2, we evaluated kidney function and pathology in wild-type (WT; C57BL/6) and Nox2 knockout (KO) mice with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes was induced in male Nox2 KO and WT mice with a multiple low-dose streptozotocin protocol. Groups were studied for kidney disease after 8 and 20 wk of diabetes. Hyperglycemia and body weights were similar in WT and Nox2 KO diabetic mice. All functional and structural features of early and later stage diabetic kidney disease (albuminuria, mesangial matrix, tubulointerstitial disease, and gene expression of matrix and transforming growth factor-β) were similar in both diabetic groups compared with their respective nondiabetic groups, except for reduction of macrophage infiltration and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in the diabetic Nox2 KO mice. Systolic blood pressure by telemetry was surprisingly increased in Nox2 KO mice; however, the systolic blood pressure was reduced in the diabetic WT and Nox2 KO mice by tail-cuff. Interestingly, diabetic Nox2 KO mice had marked upregulation of renal Nox4 at both the glomerular and cortical levels. The present results demonstrate that lack of Nox2 does not protect against diabetic kidney disease in type 1 diabetes, despite a reduction in macrophage infiltration. The lack of renoprotection may be due to upregulation of renal Nox4.

Gibberellin-producing Promicromonospora sp. SE188 improves Solanum lycopersicum plant growth and influences endogenous plant hormones

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) producing gibberellins (GAs) can be beneficial to plant growth and development. In the present study, we isolated and screened a new strain of Promicromonospora sp., SE188, isolated from soil. Promicromonospora sp. SE188 secreted GAs into its growth medium and exhibited phosphate solubilization potential. The PGPR produced physiologically active (GA(1) and GA(4)) and inactive (GA(9), GA(12), GA(19), GA(20), GA(24), GA(34), and GA(53)) GAs in various quantities detected by GC/MS-SIM. Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) plants inoculated with Promicromonospora sp. SE188 showed a significantly higher shoot length and biomass as compared to controls where PGPR-free nutrient broth (NB) and distilled water (DW) were applied to plants. The presence of Promicromonospora sp. SE188 significantly up-regulated the non C-13 hydroxylation GA biosynthesis pathway (GA(12)→GA(24)→GA(9)→GA(4)→ GA(34)) in the tomato plants as compared to the NB and DW control plants. Abscisic acid, a plant stress hormone, was significantly down-regulated in the presence of Promicromonospora sp. SE188. Contrarily, salicylic acid was significantly higher in the tomato plant after Promicromonospora sp. SE188 inoculation as compared to the controls. Promicromonospora sp. SE188 showed promising stimulation of tomato plant growth. From the results it appears that Promicromonospora sp. SE188 has potential as a bio-fertilizer and should be more broadly tested in field trials for higher crop production in eco-friendly farming systems.