A new oil-oxidizing micromycete Fusarium sp

The strain Fusarium sp. No. 56 isolated from natural oil-containing soil samples taken near the city of Oktyabr'skii, Republic of Bashkortostan, displayed a pronounced capability of biotransforming oil and its light and heavy fractions. This micromycete is nonpathogenic and can grow at 10 degrees C. The latter property is of practical significance for its uses in soil and water bioremediation under cold climatic conditions of Bashkortostan and other regions.     

Association of Interleukin-6, Interleukin-12, and Interleukin-10 Gene Polymorphisms with Essential Hypertension in Tatars from Russia

Essential hypertension is a common disease with fatal clinical complications. Epidemiological and family studies have confirmed the role of genetic predisposition in its development. Hypertensive patients have been shown to have an altered profile of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The aim of our investigation was to reveal the association of interleukin-6, interleukin-12, and interleukin-10 gene polymorphisms with essential hypertension and its clinical complications in a Tatar ethnic group from Bashkortostan, Russia. The study involved 362 hypertensive patients and 244 healthy subjects from this Tatar ethnic group (Bashkortostan, Russia). DNA was isolated from whole venous blood using phenol–chloroform extraction by the standard method. IL6 −572 G/C, IL12B 1159 C/A, and IL10 –627 C/A genotypes were typed using polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction enzyme digestion. We found that the IL10 −627 *C/*C genotype was associated with decreased risk of hypertension (OR = 0.64, P = 0.035). IL6 genotypes and allele distribution did not differ significantly between subjects with and without hypertension, but the IL6 −572 *G/*G genotype frequency was found to be significantly higher among those patients who had stroke, compared with normotensive control subjects (P = 0.036). Carriers of the IL12B 1159 *A/*A genotype had a lower risk of stroke (OR = 0.38, P = 0.028). Our study has shown the association between IL10 −627 C/A polymorphism and essential hypertension in the Tatar ethnic group from Bashkortostan, Russia. The IL10 −627*C/*C genotype was found to be protective against hypertension. We also demonstrated that hypertensive patients with the IL12B *A/*A and IL6 *G/*G genotypes had increased risk of stroke. Our results suggest a role for cytokines in cardiovascular disease development in the Tatar ethnic group, but further investigation is needed.     

Insertion Polymorphism of the CYP2E1 Gene in Patients with Infiltrative Pulmonary Tuberculosis from Bashkortostan

Insertion polymorphism Ins₉₆ of the CYP2E1 promoter region was for the first time studied in three ethnic groups of Bashkortostan. Population-specific features of genotype and allele frequency distributions were observed. The CYP2E1 polymorphism was associated with infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis in the Bashkortostan population.     

A new species of trilobites from Sakmarian Reefs of Bashkortostan

The new trilobite species Cummingella (Cummingella) boikoi sp. nov. is described from the Lower Permian reef facies (Sakmarian Stage) of Bashkiria (Bashkortostan). The new findings extend the known range of the Permian genus Cummingella Reed, 1942 and provide the first record of trilobites in Sakmarian deposits of Bashkiria.     

Analysis of mutations and haplotypes of polymorphic markers in patients with Wilson-Konovalov disease from Bashkir

Mutations of the Wilson disease (WD) gene were studied in patients from Bashkortostan. Four mutations were identified: His1069Gln, 3402delC, Glu1064Lys, and 3559 + 1G-->T. The latter mutation was described for the first time. Mutation His1069Gln was found to be the most prevalent in Bashkortostan; its frequency was 43.5%. The associations of the mutations found with the haplotypes for polymorphic loci D13S316, D13S133, and D13S228 were studied. The mutations were found to be linked with specific haplotypes, and the study of polymorphic haplotypes can therefore facilitate the search for mutations in the gene for WD. The results of the molecular genetic study of WD can be used for direct and indirect DNA diagnostics of this disease in Bashkortostan.     

Bats (Chiroptera,Vespertillionidae) from the Cis-Urals and South Urals (Republic of Bashkortostan)

New and previously published data on the distribution of 12 bat species in the Cis-Urals and South Urals (Republic of Bashkortostan) are summarized. Data on their subspecies status are given. There is a need to clarify the taxonomic status of the pipistrelle bats Pipistrellus pipistrellus/pygmaeus. In terms of composition, the bat fauna of the Republic of Bashkortostan is a variant of the Central European fauna. It was revealed that the territory in question marks the eastern limits of distribution of Nyctalus leisleri and P. pipistrellus/pygmaeus. An important feature of the territory of Bashkortostan is the presence of places of mass wintering of bats of natural origin: more than 980 karst caves used by bats not only in winter, but also during the period of activity. According to the results of captures in 14 caves, data on the frequency and relative abundance of sedentary bat species in the Republic of Bashkortostan are given.     

Analysis of Deletion Mutations in the PARK2 Gene in Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease

A method for analysis of deletions and duplications of individual exons and groups of exons in the parkin gene (PARK2) in both homozygous and heterozygous states has been developed. The method is based on semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The method has been used for analysis of the frequency of deletions in gene PARK2 in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease from Bashkortostan. Two unrelated patients have been found to carry a deletion of the 12th (last) exon of gene PARK2. Possibly, this deletion has caused the disease in the given patients.     

Polymorphism of the Serotonin 2A Receptor Gene in Populations of the Volga–Ural Region

The MspI restriction polymorphism of the serotonin 2A receptor gene (5HT2A) was typed in populations of the Volga–Ural region (Bashkirs, Chuvashes, Tatars, Udmurts, Maris, Mordovians, Komis, and Russians inhabiting the Republic of Bashkortostan). Population-specific patterns of the main polymorphism indices distribution were established. Specific trends in the changes of genotype and allele frequency of the 5HT2Agene depending on the ethnicity of the population were revealed.     

Forces affecting water imbibition inMacrotermes workers (Termitidae,Isoptera)

Summary Observations of putative drinking behaviour at soil surfaces by major workers ofMacrotermes subhyalinus andM. bellicosus suggested that unidirectionally arranged trichomes on the anterior hypopharynx exert capillarity on water in soil pores. To test this hypothesis thirsty major workers were placed on soil of relatively low water content. From the soil types tested we determined soil-moisture retention curves which represent graphically the water content of the soil and its corresponding capillary potential. The termites were able to obtain water from different types of clay soil against potentials in the range – 1.6 to – 1.9 bar. On sandy soil the capillary potential was found to be much higher (– 0.18 bar), i.e. closer to zero. Sandy soil has a very unfavourable water retention capacity, i.e. its water content is very low at low capillary potential, whereas clay soil retains much more water at low capillary potential. The ability of the termites to gain water from soils with relatively low water content is an important adaptive feature for survival in semi-arid areas.     

Miscanthus sacchriflorus exhibits sustainable yields and ameliorates soil properties but potassium stocks without any input over a 12‐year period in China

The perennial C₄ Miscanthus spp. is used in China for bio‐fuel production and its ecological functions. However, questions arise as to its economic and environmental sustainability in abandoned farmland where the costs should be very low. Little is known about its yield performance and effects on soil properties when it was harvested annually without any inputs in China. To address these questions, an experiment was implemented for 12 years on annually harvested Miscanthus sacchariflorus planted in 2006 and managed without fertilization, irrigation, or any other inputs. We determined biomass yields each year, biomass allocation, and soil properties before and after its cultivation. Biomass yields of M. sacchariflorus reached a peak value (29.67 t/ha) 3 years after cultivation and was maintained at a stable level (averaged 22.22 t/ha) during 2012–2017. Its root shoot ratio increased due to more biomass allocated below‐ground with time. Long‐term cultivation of M. sacchariflorus increased organic carbon contents, pH (for the absence of fertilization), microbial carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus contents, and soil carbon nitrogen ratios (0–100 cm). Soil bulk density was decreased significantly (p < .05) independent of soil depths. Annual harvest did not reduce total nitrogen and phosphorus, available nitrogen, and potassium, but total the potassium content of soil (0–100 cm). Cultivation of M. sacchariflorus increased available phosphorus contents in 40–100 cm soil and reduced that value in 20–40 cm soil. Biological nitrogen fixation provided ~218.74 kg ha^?1 year^?1 (1 m depth) nitrogen for the system offsetting nitrogen export by biomass harvest and stabilizing nitrogen levels of soil. In conclusion, M. sacchriflorus exhibited sustainable biomass yields and ameliorated soil properties but the decrease of total potassium contents after 12 years’ cultivation without any input. These conclusions could provide important information timely for the government and encourage farmers to promote large‐scale utilization of M. sacchriflorus on the abandoned farmland in China.     

Polymorphism of the Tumor Necrosis Factor α Gene in Patients with Infiltrative Tuberculosis from the Bashkortostan Populations

The polymorphism at position –308 of the TNF- gene promoter was analyzed in three ethnic groups and in patients with infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis from Bashkortostan. No interethnic difference in allele or genotype frequency distribution was observed. The frequency of allele TNF2 in tuberculosis patients was significantly higher than in controls (² = 11.69, p = 0.001), suggesting association of this allele with higher risk of pulmonary tuberculosis or with markedly disturbed immune response.     

Dissecting Solidago canadensis–soil feedback in its real invasion

The importance of plant–soil feedback (PSF) has long been recognized, but the current knowledge on PSF patterns and the related mechanisms mainly stems from laboratory experiments. We aimed at addressing PSF effects on community performance and their determinants using an invasive forb Solidago canadensis. To do so, we surveyed 81 pairs of invaded versus uninvaded plots, collected soil samples from these pairwise plots, and performed an experiment with microcosm plant communities. The magnitudes of conditioning soil abiotic properties and soil biotic properties by S. canadensis were similar, but the direction was opposite; altered abiotic and biotic properties influenced the production of subsequent S. canadensis communities and its abundance similarly. These processes shaped neutral S. canadensis–soil feedback effects at the community level. Additionally, the relative dominance of S. canadensis increased with its ability of competitive suppression in the absence and presence of S. canadensis–soil feedbacks, and S. canadensis‐induced decreases in native plant species did not alter soil properties directly. These findings provide a basis for understanding PSF effects and the related mechanisms in the field conditions and also highlight the importance of considering PSFs holistically.     

Root development and competitive ability of the invasive species Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T. Blake in the South Florida flatwoods

Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T. Blake is an aggressive, invasive species in sub-tropical Florida that is considered a serious threat to the existing biological integrity of many subtropical ecosystems in south Florida. It prevents other species from thriving through its high rate of seed production/germination and the formation of a dense tree canopy. However, its ability to take over a site between initial seedling establishment and crown closure is not well understood. The objective of this study was to determine (i) the nature of root development with time and soil depth, and (ii) the ability of M. quinquenervia to invade and absorb nutrients from soil already occupied by native vegetation. The working hypotheses were that M. quinquenervia captures a site either by (i) tolerating competition by prolifically growing roots into soil already occupied by native plants, or (ii) avoiding competition by rooting to depths where inter-root competition is less and water supply during a drought is available. Soil trenches and in-growth trays were used to measure root distribution and growth. Root number (# m^–2), root length density (m root m^–3 soil volume), and root biomass (g root m^–3 soil) were determined. This study demonstrated that M. quinquenervia (1) is a prolific rooter with or without the presence of competing vegetation; (2) can develop root densities higher than many mature native species at an early age; (3) can develop roots in the soil surface during soil drying periods, even while competitive grasses are dying out; (4) can develop a deep root system at an early age; and (5) is an effective rooter in both moist and dry water regimes in this fluctuating water table soil. The data suggested that this species is a strong competitor through the use of both competition avoidance and tolerance mechanisms and that the rooting habit of M. quinquenervia should be an important consideration when evaluating its ability as an invasive species.     

Glyphosate bioavailability in soil

Biodegradation of glyphosate in sod-podzol soil by both the indigenous micro flora and the introduced strain Ochrobactrum anthropi GPK 3 was studied with respect to its sorption and mobility. The experiments were carried out in columns simulating the vertical soil profile. Soil samples studied were taken from soil horizons 0–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm deep. It was found out that the most of the herbicide (up to 84%) was adsorbed by soil during the first 24 h; the rest (16%) remained in the soluble fraction. The adsorbed glyphosate was completely extractable by alkali. No irreversible binding of glyphosate was observed. By the end of the experiment (21st day), glyphosate was only found in extractable fractions. The comparison of the effect of the introduced O. anthropi GPK 3 and indigenous microbial community on the total toxicant content (both soluble and absorbed) in the upper 10 cm soil layer showed its reduction by 42% (21 mg/kg soil) and 10–12% (5 mg/kg soil), respectively. Simultaneously, 14–18% glyphosate moved to a lower 10–20 cm layer. Watering (that simulated rainfall) resulted in a 20% increase of its content at this depth; 6–8% of herbicide was further washed down to the 20–30 cm layer. The glyphosate mobility down the soil profile reduced its density in the upper layer, where it was available for biodegradation, and resulted in its concentration in lower horizons characterized by the absence (or low level) of biodegradative processes. It was shown for the first time how the herbicide biodegradation in soil can be increased manifold by introduction of the selected strain O. anthropi GPK 3.     

Analysis of the IT15 Gene in Huntington's Disease Families

Direct molecular genetic testing carried out in 59 Huntington's disease patients belonging to 46 families from Bashkortostan revealed the (CAG) _n repeat expansion in exon 1 of the IT15 gene in 57 of them. By use of this analysis the disease status was not confirmed in two patients with atypical form of the disease and negative family history. The (CAG) _n repeat expansion was identified in 27 out of 127 asymptomatic at-risk individuals. Analysis of the mutant (CAG) _n allele inheritance demonstrated extremely high instability and high mutation rate predominantly leading to the appearance of the alleles with increasing number of (CAG) _n repeats in subsequent generations. The instability was mostly observed in cases of paternal transmission. Almost complete linkage disequilibrium between the (CCG)₇ mutant alleles and the del2642 deletion was demonstrated. Three major haplotypes revealed, (CCG)₇/del–, (CCG)₇/del+, and (CCG)₁₀/del–, implied the existence of at least three sources of the origin of Huntington's disease in Bashkortostan. The identified haplotype frequency distribution patterns displayed similarities with those in European populations. The contribution of a number of genetic factors to the age of onset of Huntington's disease was analyzed.     

Effect of some antibiotics on Sclerotium cepivorum Berk., the cause of white rot of onion

The effect of some antibiotics onSclerotium cepivorum, the cause of white rot of onion was studied in agar culture and soil. The growth ofS. cepivorum was inhibited in Czapek Dox yeast agar containing 50µg of gliotoxin, viridin, actidione and 100µg of patulin per ml of the medium. Lower concentrations of the antibiotics retarded the growth of the fungus. In soil, patulin had no effect in the control ofS. cepivorum infection of onion seedlings. Concentration of actidione of 5µg/g of soil completely controlled white rot infection but severely stunted the growth of onion seedlings; 40µg/g of actidione killed the seedlings. Despite the importance of actidione as a fungistatic agent its use on onion is limited by its phytotoxicity.     

Superior survival and degradation of dibenzo-p-dioxin and dibenzofuran in soil by soil-adapted Sphingomonas sp. strain RW1

The dibenzo-p-dioxin(DD)- and dibenzofuran(DF)-degrading bacterium, Sphingomonas sp. strain RW1, was tagged by insertion of a mini-Tn5 lacZ transposon in order to follow its fate in complex laboratory soil systems. The tagged strain was tested for its ability to survive in soil and degrade DF and DD applied at a concentration of 1 mg/g. Bacteria pre-adapted to soil conditions were found to survive better in DF- and DD-amended soil and degrade the substrate more efficiently than bacteria that had not been subjected to pre-adaptation. The concentration of soil-applied DF and DD, individually and in combination, decreased to less than 2% of the original concentrations within 3 weeks of addition of the RW1 derivative, accompanied by a short, but significant exponential increase in RW1 viable cells. During the same period the native bacterial population in soil was stable while viable fungi declined. Received: 12 November 1996 / Received revision: 21 February 1997 / Accepted: 22 February 1997     

Effect of Arsenic on Nodulation and Nitrogen Fixation of Blackgram (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Vigna mungo</Emphasis>)

Rhizobium–legume symbiotic interaction is an efficient model system for soil remediation and reclamation. We earlier isolated an arsenic (As) (2.8 mM arsenate) tolerant and symbiotically effective Rhizobium strain, VMA301 from Vigna mungo and in this study we further characterized its efficacy for arsenic removal from the soil and its nitrogen fixation capacity. Although nodule formation is delayed in plants with As-treated composite when the inoculum was prepared without arsenic in culture medium, whereas it attains the significant number of nodules compare to plant grown in As-free soil when the inoculum was prepared with arsenic supplemented medium. Arsenic accumulation was higher in roots than root nodules. Nitrogenase activity is reduced to almost 2 fold in plants with As-treated soil but not abolished. These results suggest that this strain, VMA301, has been able to establish an effective symbiotic interaction in V. mungo in As-contaminated soil and can perform dual role of arsenic bioremediation as well as soil nitrogen improvement.     

Association polymorphic variants of GRIN2B gene with paranoid schizophrenia and response to typical neuroleptics in Russians and Tatars from Bashkortostan Republic

An analysis of the association of paranoid schizophrenia seeking with polymorphic variants of GRIN2B was performed in order to identify genetic risk factors of disease development and genetic markers of the response to therapy by neuroleptics in Russian and Tatar patients from Bashkortostan Republic (BR). In the course of the analysis, we revealed the following: (1) genetic markers of increased risk of developing paranoid schizophrenia in various ethnic groups, including, in Tatars, the GRIN2B*T/*T genotype (p = 0.003; OR = 2.33) and GRIN2B*T allele (p = 0.001; OR = 2.36), rs1805247; in Russians, the GRIN2B*T/*T genotype (p = 0.038; OR = 2.12) and GRIN2B*T allele (p = 0.028; OR = 2.03), rs1805247, genotype GRIN2B*A/*A (p = 0.042; OR = 2.12), rs1805476; (2) genetic markers of the reduced risk of developing paranoid schizophrenia; (3) genetic markers of therapy response and the risk of side effects development during neuroleptics (haloperidol) treatment in Bashkortostan. The significant interethnic diversity of genetic factors related to the risk of this disease development was noted.

     

Niche differentiation and preferences of Elaphrus cupreus Duftschmid, 1812 and Elaphrus uliginosus (Fabricius, 1792) (Coleoptera: Carabidae) as reason for their different endangerment in Central Europe

Ecological demands were studied in Elaphrus cupreus, a frequent species, and E. uliginosus, one of the most endangered carabids in Europe. Ecological experiments were performed in the laboratory and the field in northern Germany. Abundance was measured using the mark-and-recatch method. Both species prefer sites with water content changes lower than 25%. E. uliginosus prefers higher temperatures than E. cupreus and niche breadth was on average wider in E. cupreus than in E. uliginosus. E. uliginosus is restricted to grassland sites with a low fraction (>0 and 25%) of bare soil. E. cupreus was mainly found on sites having >75–100% bare soil. This preference of E. uliginosus can be referred to its high temperature demands using open regions for warming up and its predatory behaviour using hideouts for a rapid predatory push. The wider niche structure and lower temperature demand of E. cupreus allows the inhabitation of cooler alder woods. It prefers large fractions of bare soil because its predatory behaviour is to run randomly on the soil. Thus, E. uliginosus demands wet extensively grazed grassland where cattle produces low fractions of bare soil, while E. cupreus prefers intensively grazed sites in grassland or alder woods.