Dynamics of trace metals in the system water – soil – plant – wild rats – tapeworms (Hymenolepis diminuta) in Maglizh area,Bulgaria

BackgroundThe impact of chemical elements on the biosphere is a function of their concentration and chemical form. Elucidation and prognosing of the latters in water basins and soil extracts is of particular significance for the assessment of their bioaccumulation in plants and animals.ObjectivesTrace metals dynamics in the system water – soil–plant–wild rats – Hymenolepis diminuta in two agro-industrial zones (East and West) around Maglizh city, Bulgaria were investigated through experimental studies and thermodynamic modelling of the chemical species.MethodsSamples from surface waters of rivers, their nearby uncultivated soils, meadow uncultivated vegetation (Ranunculus acris and Gramineae) and field rats were collected. In situ measurements and laboratory analyses were performed for the determination of the physico-chemical characteristics and total concentrations of Al, Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb. The distribution of their dissolved chemical species in water samples and in the aqueous soil extracts was calculated using a thermodynamic approach. The relationship chemical species - bioaccumulation was discussed.ResultsWaters and soils in the East zone of Maglizh area were found to be more polluted compared to those in the West one, regarding Ni, Mn, Zn, Pb and Cu, while Mn and Cu displayed the highest mobility in West zone soils. Trace metals contents in Ranunculus acris exceed that in Gramineae, since the highest accumulation factors were calculated for Cu and Zn. The highest accumulation in rats was found for Zn followed by Cu, being higher in the West zone. Thermodynamic modelling shows that Mn²⁺ free ions are dominant in both waters and aqueous soil extracts. Ni²⁺ and Zn²⁺ ions followed by metal-organic complexes are dominant in waters of East zone while metal-organic complexes followed by free ions are dominant in waters of West zone and both soil extracts. Metal-organic complexes are dominant for Fe, Cu and Pb in all samples studied, while mainly hydroxy forms (Al(OH)₄⁻) followed by metal-organic complexes are typically for Al depending on pH.ConclusionsExperimentally established bioaccumulation of trace metals in the studied vegetation and rats is a consequence of the total concentration of trace metals in waters and soils, their mobility and chemical species. The dominance of organic complexes of trace metals is a prerequisite for their bioaccumulation in plants. Rats are in direct contact with the soil solution and therefore, of importance is the content of free ions of Mn²⁺, Ni²⁺, Zn²⁺, which are easily absorbed through the skin. The host-helminth system wild rat/H. diminuta could be used as a bioindicator for trace metals pollution.     

Radiomics in radiooncology – Challenging the medical physicist

PurposeNoticing the fast growing translation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to medical image analysis this paper emphasizes the future role of the medical physicist in this evolving field. Specific challenges are addressed when implementing big data concepts with high-throughput image data processing like radiomics and machine learning in a radiooncology environment to support clinical decisions.MethodsBased on the experience of our interdisciplinary radiomics working group, techniques for processing minable data, extracting radiomics features and associating this information with clinical, physical and biological data for the development of prediction models are described. A special emphasis was placed on the potential clinical significance of such an approach.ResultsClinical studies demonstrate the role of radiomics analysis as an additional independent source of information with the potential to influence the radiooncology practice, i.e. to predict patient prognosis, treatment response and underlying genetic changes. Extending the radiomics approach to integrate imaging, clinical, genetic and dosimetric data (‘panomics’) challenges the medical physicist as member of the radiooncology team.ConclusionsThe new field of big data processing in radiooncology offers opportunities to support clinical decisions, to improve predicting treatment outcome and to stimulate fundamental research on radiation response both of tumor and normal tissue. The integration of physical data (e.g. treatment planning, dosimetric, image guidance data) demands an involvement of the medical physicist in the radiomics approach of radiooncology. To cope with this challenge national and international organizations for medical physics should organize more training opportunities in artificial intelligence technologies in radiooncology.     

Long-term development of the crustacean plankton in the Saidenbach Reservoir (Germany) – changes,causes, consequences

The rates of development and food intake of the copepod Temora longicornis (Müller) were studied using artificial blooms of Phaeocystis globosa Scherffel under different conditions of nutrient limitation. Mesocosms with 800 l of natural seawater were manipulated by inoculation with cultured P. globosa and by addition of nitrogen and/or phosphorus, to obtain N- or P-limited blooms of P. globosa. During development and ageing of these blooms, water from the mesocosms was used as medium for incubation of nauplii of T. longicornis. Only moderate rates of naupliar development as well as high rates of mortality were observed, irrespective of major differences of nutrient conditions and density of P. globosa. Grazing by the nauplii on P. globosa seemed to be low, suggesting a low food quality of this alga at all physiological conditions studied. The results of this study indicate a low capability of T. longicornis nauplii for control of nuisance algal blooms caused by P. globosa.     

Apoptosis in Activated T Cells – What Are the Triggers,and What the Signal Transducers?

At the end of an immune response, apoptosis drastically reduces the numbers of activated T cells. It has been a matter of intense research how this form of apoptosis is regulated and initiated, and a number of proteins have been identified that contribute to this process. The present, widely accepted model assumes that the interplay of pro- and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members determines the onset of activated T cell death, with the BH3-only protein Bim activating pro-apoptotic Bax/Bak. In the search for up-stream signals, factors from other immune cells have been shown to play a role, and the NF-κB family member Bcl-3 has been implicated as a signalling-intermediate in T cells. Recent work has tested the interrelation of these factors and has suggested that Bcl-3 acts as a regulator of Bim activation, that the induction of apoptosis through Bim can be complemented by its relative Puma, and that the presence of certain cytokines during T cell activation delays the activation of Bim and Puma. Here we discuss these recent insights and provide a view on how the regulation of activated T cell death is achieved and how extrinsic signals may translate into the activation of the apoptotic pathway.     

Prebiotic Syntheses Under Shock in the Water – Formamide – Potassium Bicarbonate – Sodium Hydroxide System

Origins of Life and Evolution of Biospheres - Syntheses under shock in nitrogen bubbled samples of the water – formamide – bicarbonate – sodium hydroxide system at...     

Advances in the human genome project – A review

While celebrating its fifth official birthday last year it seems that the Human Genome Project (HGP) has and will continue to yield important biochemical information to mankind. It is exhilarating to think about the transition from studying genome structure to understanding genome function. The collective actions of information dessimination, technology development for efficient and faster sequencing, high-volume sequencing and developing model organisms has led to its success sofar. Various genome-wide STS-based human maps were completed in 1995, including a genetic map, a YAC map, a RH map with, and an integrated YAC-RH genetic map. These maps provide comprehensive frameworks for positioning additional loci, with the current genetic and RH maps spanning essentially 100% of the human genome and the YAC maps covering 95%. Few genes, however, have yet been localized on these framework maps. To date the Human Genome Project has experienced gratifying success. The technology and data produced by the genome project will provide a strong stimulus to broad areas of biological research and biotechnology. However, enormous challenges remain.     

Enzymes in jasmonate biosynthesis – Structure,function, regulation

Jasmonates are a growing class of lipid-derived signaling molecules with diverse functions ranging from the initiation of biotic and abiotic stress responses to the regulation of plant growth and development. Jasmonate biosynthesis originates from polyunsaturated fatty acids in chloroplast membranes. In a first lipoxygenase-catalyzed reaction molecular oxygen is introduced to yield their 13-hydroperoxy derivatives. These fatty acid hydroperoxides are converted by allene oxide synthase and allene oxide cyclase to 12-oxophytodienoic acid (OPDA) and dinor-OPDA, i.e. the first cyclic intermediates of the pathway. In the subsequent step, the characteristic cyclopentanone ring structure of jasmonates is established by OPDA reductase. Until recently, jasmonic acid has been viewed as the end product of the pathway and as the bioactive hormone. It becomes increasingly clear, however, that biological activity extends to and may even differ between the various jasmonic acid metabolites and conjugates as well as its biosynthetic precursors. It has also become clear that oxygenated fatty acids give rise to a vast variety of bioactive compounds including but not limited to jasmonates. Recent insights into the structure, function, and regulation of the enzymes involved in jasmonate biosynthesis help to explain how this variety is generated while specificity is maintained.     

VIS – A database on the distribution of fishes in inland and estuarine waters in Flanders,Belgium

The Research Institute for Nature and Forest (INBO) has been performing standardized fish stock assessments in Flanders, Belgium. This Flemish Fish Monitoring Network aims to assess fish populations in public waters at regular time intervals in both inland waters and estuaries. This monitoring was set up in support of the Water Framework Directive, the Habitat Directive, the Eel Regulation, the Red List of fishes, fish stock management, biodiversity research, and to assess the colonization and spreading of non-native fish species. The collected data are consolidated in the Fish Information System or VIS. From VIS, the occurrence data are now published at the INBO IPT as two datasets: ‘VIS - Fishes in inland waters in Flanders, Belgium’ and ‘VIS - Fishes in estuarine waters in Flanders, Belgium’. Together these datasets represent a complete overview of the distribution and abundance of fish species pertaining in Flanders from late 1992 to the end of 2012. This data paper discusses both datasets together, as both have a similar methodology and structure. The inland waters dataset contains over 350,000 fish observations, sampled between 1992 and 2012 from over 2,000 locations in inland rivers, streams, canals, and enclosed waters in Flanders. The dataset includes 64 fish species, as well as a number of non-target species (mainly crustaceans). The estuarine waters dataset contains over 44,000 fish observations, sampled between 1995 and 2012 from almost 50 locations in the estuaries of the rivers Yser and Scheldt (“Zeeschelde”), including two sampling sites in the Netherlands. The dataset includes 69 fish species and a number of non-target crustacean species. To foster broad and collaborative use, the data are dedicated to the public domain under a Creative Commons Zero waiver and reference the INBO norms for data use.     

Lymphadenovarix in the axilla – an unusual presentation of filariasis

Clinical manifestations of lymphatic filariasis depend on the area of lymphatic involvement and the duration of infection. A 21 year old man, resident in a filariasis endemic region, presented with multiple matted lymph nodes with cystic areas forming a large mass in his left axilla. An ultrasound scan of the axilla using a 7.5 MHz transducer revealed grossly dilated lymphatics but no filarial dance sign. Fine needle (21 G) aspiration cytology (FNAC) from the dilated lymphatics and solid areas in the lymph node mass revealed multiple microfilariae in a background of reactive lymphoid cells. Peripheral blood smears revealed microfilaremia with significant eosinophilia. Diagnosis of left axillary Bancroftian lymphadenovarix was made. On the administration of oral diethylcarbamazine, the diameter of the lymphatic vessels in the lymphadenovarix reduced considerably in size and microfilaremia disappeared. We report this case because axillary lymphadenovarix is a rare presentation of filariasis. This case is also unique since microfilariae were demonstrated in the fluid aspirated from the dilated lymphatics of the lymphadenovarix in the absence of live adult worms.     

RACK1 research – ships passing in the night?

It should not be surprising that a protein with a name like RACK1 – short for receptor for activated C kinase 1 – is found in a variety of signaling complexes. Its alternative name, the splendidly unmemorable GNB2L1 – short for guanine nucleotide-binding protein subunit beta-2-like 1 – should reinforce this link to signaling complexes. There are currently over 400 publications listed in PubMed mentioning RACK1/GNB2L1 in the abstract, so it is certainly an actively studied protein with much involvement in different aspects of cell regulation being reported. RACK1 binds to the 40S ribosomal subunit, suggesting it links cell regulation and translation. It is also a target of intracellular parasites. And yet does this protein have the profile that it should? And why are there two kinds of RACK1 researcher who do not seem to communicate well?     

Phylogenetic patterns in the fleshy-fruited Myrtaceae – preliminary molecular evidence

A phylogenetic study of selected fleshy-fruited genera of the Myrtaceae was conducted using sequences from the ITS region of nuclear DNA and the psbA-trnH region of plastid DNA. Studies to date have suggested that the fleshy-fruited state has arisen on several occasions in the Myrtaceae. The previously accepted and predominantly Neotropical tribe Myrteae has traditionally been divided into three groups, the subtribes Myrtinae, Eugeniinae and Myrciinae. This subtribal arrangement is analysed in detail here for the first time. The monophyly of the tribe and subtribes are tested and relationships of the genera within them, in particular those of the Myrciinae and anomalous genera sometimes associated with it, are discussed. Combined analyses of these two DNA regions revealed 40 shortest trees, all of which resolve Myrteae (excluding the Acmena group) as monophyletic. Myrciinae appears to be monophyletic whereas Myrtinae and Eugeniinae appear polyphyletic. The phylogenetic positions and relationships of the anomalous genera Myrceugenia, Luma and Blepharocalyx are unclear, but Myrceugenia is never included within the Myrciinae s.str. A Myrciinae s.str. clade emerges within which Myrcia, Calyptranthes and Marlierea appear polyphyletic. Clades emerge, however, that may reflect some natural groupings within the subtribe.We thank David Simpson, Lazlo Csiba, Edith Kapinos and many others from Kew for invaluable advice and support. It would not have been possible to collect the Brazilian samples without the patience and careful guidance of Dr. Vinicius C. Souza, Fiorella F. Mazine (Universidade de São Paulo, ESALQ), Professor Gert Hatschbach, Joel M. de Silva (Museu Botânico Municipal, Curitiba) and many others from the ESA and MBM herbaria. Thanks also to Les Landrum, Andrew Salywon, Marcos Sobral and an anonymous reviewer for helpful comments at different stages of this work. British Airways are gratefully acknowledged for providing a flight to Brazil under their Community and Conservation programme.     

A Sea Under Siege – Alien Species in the Mediterranean

Exotic macrophytes, invertebrates and fish are found in most coastal habitats in the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean Sea has been subjected to introductions of non-indigenous species by ship traffic since the opening of interoceanic maritime routes five centuries ago. The Sea, a hub of shipping, is exceptionally susceptible to invaders that arrive in fouling communities or ballast. The Suez Canal has been the largest pathway for the entry of these species: more than 300 Erythrean species – principally molluscs, fish, decapod crustaceans, polychaetes and algae – have become established in the eastern Mediterranean, primarily along the Levantine coasts. Mariculture of nonindigenous shellfish predominates in the northern Mediterranean lagoonar environments. Unrestricted transport of commercially important exotic shellfish has resulted in numerous unintentional introductions of pathogens, parasites and pest species. Some invaders have outcompeted or replaced native species locally, severely reducing biodiversity; some other invaders are so abundant they are exploited commercially. The rate of these biotic invasions has increased in recent decades, and they collectively have significant ecological and economic impacts in the Mediterranean Sea. This revised version was published online in July 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.     

Holocene paleoenvironments in southeastern Minnesota – chasing the prairie-forest ecotone

This paper uses a multi-proxy approach involving pollen, plant macrofossils, speleothem isotopes, and alluvial history of streams to reconstruct the history of prairie expansion and contraction along the prairie-forest border of southeastern Minnesota, USA. Early Holocene forests were replaced by prairie along this border, but eastward expansion of prairie stalled for 2000 yr when the prairie-forest ecotone stabilized. Prairie invaded the area from the west 8000–9000 yr B.P., but mesic forest remained less than 100 km to the east until about 6000 yr B.P. Changes in δ¹³C values in speleothem calcite, that reflect the rise of C₄ grasses, correlate well with the presence of C₄ grass species identified in the plant macrofossil record. Periods of large floods correlate with speleothem evidence of dry summers, increased cool-season precipitation (both resulting in less plant cover to absorb moisture), and change to prairie vegetation.     

Mesoscale organization of domains in the plasma membrane – beyond the lipid raft

The plasma membrane is compartmentalized into several distinct regions or domains, which show a broad diversity in both size and lifetime. The segregation of lipids and membrane proteins is thought to be driven by the lipid composition itself, lipid–protein interactions and diffusional barriers. With regards to the lipid composition, the immiscibility of certain classes of lipids underlies the “lipid raft” concept of plasmalemmal compartmentalization. Historically, lipid rafts have been described as cholesterol and (glyco)sphingolipid-rich regions of the plasma membrane that exist as a liquid-ordered phase that are resistant to extraction with non-ionic detergents. Over the years the interest in lipid rafts grew as did the challenges with studying these nanodomains. The term lipid raft has fallen out of favor with many scientists and instead the terms “membrane raft” or “membrane nanodomain” are preferred as they connote the heterogeneity and dynamic nature of the lipid-protein assemblies. In this article, we will discuss the classical lipid raft hypothesis and its limitations. This review will also discuss alternative models of lipid-protein interactions, annular lipid shells, and larger membrane clusters. We will also discuss the mesoscale organization of plasmalemmal domains including visible structures such as clathrin-coated pits and caveolae.