Aim： To assess the effect of estradiol-17β （E2） and bisphenol A （BPA） administered chronically by implanting a silicone tube throughout pregnancy and lactation on male pups＇ reproductive system in ICR mice. Met...Aim： To assess the effect of estradiol-17β （E2） and bisphenol A （BPA） administered chronically by implanting a silicone tube throughout pregnancy and lactation on male pups＇ reproductive system in ICR mice. Methods： Female mice were implanted with a tube filled with 10 ng, 500 ng, 1 μg, or 10 μg of E2, or 100 μg or 5 mg of BPA, before mating. The tube was kept in the mice throughout pregnancy and lactation, until the pups had weaned at 4 weeks of age. During the period, E2 was released from the tube at 120 pg or 6, 12 or 120 ng/day, and BPA at 1.2 or 60 μg/day. Results： Most of the mice given 1 μg and 10 lag of E2 did not maintain their pregnancy. However, the other groups showed high rates of birth, more than 70%. At age of 4 weeks, the male pups were killed. Body weight and reproductive organ weights （testes, epididymides and accessory reproductive glands） in the treated groups did not differ from the control values, whereas the percentage of seminiferous tubules in the testis with mature spermatids was significantly lower in the groups given 10 ng and 500 ng of E2 and 5 mg of BPA than that in the control. Conclusion： Chronic exposure to E2 and BPA might disrupt spermatogenesis in male pups. （Asian JAndrol 2008 Mar; 10： 271-276）展开更多
Aluminum （Al） is very toxic to many living organisms, including plants, animals and microorganisms. However, despite many studies on Al tolerance in plants, little has been reported concerning these mechanisms in mi...Aluminum （Al） is very toxic to many living organisms, including plants, animals and microorganisms. However, despite many studies on Al tolerance in plants, little has been reported concerning these mechanisms in microorganisms. In this study, a red yeast, which could tolerate Al3＋ concentrations as high as 200 mmol L-1, was isolated from acidic soils, identified as Rhodotorula sp. and designated as RS1. As the medium compositions can greatly affect the responses of microorganisms to Al, two culture mediums, glucose medium （GM） and lysogeny broth medium containing soil extract （S-LBM）, were used. During growth of RS1, the pH of medium decreased in GM but increased in S-LBM. These changes in the pH of the media were not induced by Al addition. No or little secretion of organic acids was observed in RS1 growth media. Importantly, the thickness of the cell walls and the ratio of cell wall to biomass of RS1 significantly increased in GM with high Al3＋ concentrations. In the presence of 100 mmol Al L-1, 78.0% of the total A1 of whole cells was present in the thickened cell walls. The Al in cell walls was mostly bound to OH, amide and CO groups of polysaccharides. These results suggest that thickening of the cell wall in response to the high Al3＋ concentrations may play an important role in the high tolerance of RS1 to Al and that pH increase of the medium and chelation of Al ions are not involved in Al tolerance of this organism.展开更多
In this study, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria（PGPR） were evaluated as potential biocontrol agents against postharvest pathogens of apple fruits. In vitro bioassays revealed that, out of 30 isolates screened, i...In this study, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria（PGPR） were evaluated as potential biocontrol agents against postharvest pathogens of apple fruits. In vitro bioassays revealed that, out of 30 isolates screened, isolates APEC136 and APEC170 had the most significant inhibitory effects against the mycelial growth of several fungal pathogens. Analysis of 16 S ribosomal RNA（rR NA） sequences identified the two effective isolates as Paenibacillus polymyxa and Bacillus subtilis, respectively. The two strains showed greater growth in brain-heart infusion broth than in other growth media. Treatment of harvested apples with suspensions of either strain reduced the symptoms of anthracnose disease caused by two fungal pathogens, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Colletotrichum acutatum, and white rot disease caused by Botryosphaeria dothidea. Increased productions of amylase and protease by APEC136, and increased productions of chitinase, amylase, and protease by APEC170 might have been responsible for inhibiting mycelial growth. The isolates caused a greater reduction in the growth of white rot than of anthracnose. These results indicate that the isolates APEC136 and APEC170 are promising agents for the biocontrol of anthracnose and white rot diseases in apples after harvest, and suggest that these isolates may be useful in controlling these diseases under field conditions.展开更多
A heavy metal contaminated soil sample collected from a mine in Chonnam Province of South Korea was found to be a source of heavy metal adsorbing biosorbents. Chemical analyses showed high contents of lead （Pb） at 3...A heavy metal contaminated soil sample collected from a mine in Chonnam Province of South Korea was found to be a source of heavy metal adsorbing biosorbents. Chemical analyses showed high contents of lead （Pb） at 357 mg/kg and cyanide （CN） at 14.6 mg/kg in the soil. The experimental results showed that Penicillium sp. MRF-1 was the best lead resistant fungus among the four individual metal tolerant fungal species isolated from the soil. Molecular characterization of Penicillium sp. MRF-1 was determined using ITS regions sequences. Effects of pH, temperature and contact time on adsorption of Pb（Ⅱ） by Penicillium sp. MRF-1 were studied. Favorable conditions for maximum biosportion were found at pH 4 with 3 hr contact time. Biosorption of Pb（Ⅱ） gradually increased with increasing temperature. Efficient performance of the biosorbent was described using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. Adsorption kinetics was studied using pseudo first-order and pseudo second-order models. Biosorbent Penicillium sp. MRF-1 showed the maximum desorption in alkali conditions. Consistent adsorption/desorption potential of the biosorbent in repetitive cycles validated the efficacy of it in large scale. SEM studies given notes on surface modification of fungal biomass under metal stress and FT-IR results showed the presence of amino groups in the surface structure of the biosorbent. In conclusion, the new biosorbent Penicillium sp. MRF- 1 may potentially be used as an inexpensive, easily cultivatable material for the removal of lead from aqueous solution.展开更多
Biogas production generates digested slurry as a byproduct. It can be used as a fertilizer especially after its conversion into digested liquid. A pot based study was conducted in order to evaluate the effect of the a...Biogas production generates digested slurry as a byproduct. It can be used as a fertilizer especially after its conversion into digested liquid. A pot based study was conducted in order to evaluate the effect of the application of digested liquid on CH4 and N2O flux, and plant biomass in paddy. Analysis revealed that digested liquid treated soils released more CH4 compared to ammonium sulphate and the control. Ammonium sulphate treated soil emitted the highest N20 whereas digested liquid application decreased its emission significantly. Further, the cumulative emission over 101 d of the experiment was found to be higher for CHa （16.9 to 29.9 g m^-2） compared to N20 （-49.3 to 18.9 mg m^-2） for all treatments. Digested liquid application had positive impact on plant variables such as panicle number and weight of panicles. This study suggests that digested liquid application significantly decrease N20 emission and increase CH4 emission possibly due to affecting the availability of organic C in the soil to microbial activity for methanogenesis. Another possibility for enhancing CH4 emission by following biogas digested liquid could be attributed to the increase in plant biomass.展开更多
Chitinolytic activities were measured in two fish species having different feeding habits, chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) and silver croaker (Pennahia argentata). Chitinase (an endo-type chitinolytic enzyme) activi...Chitinolytic activities were measured in two fish species having different feeding habits, chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) and silver croaker (Pennahia argentata). Chitinase (an endo-type chitinolytic enzyme) activity was measured using pNP-(GlcNAc)n (n = 2, 3) as substrates;its level was significantly high in the stomachs of both species, as well as in the gills, intestine, pyloric appendage, testis, and liver of chub mackerel and in the spleen, kidney, pyloric appendage, ovaries, heart, and liver of silver croaker. β-N-Acetylhexosaminidase (an exo-type chitinolytic enzyme) activity was measured using pNP-(GlcNAc) as a substrate;it was detected at high levels in many parts apart from the digestive tracts of both species. The optimum pH for chitinase activity was 3.0 - 5.0 in the stomachs of both species, 4.0 in the liver of chub mackerel, and 4.0 and 8.0 in the kidney of silver croaker. Full-length cDNAs encoding two chitinase isozymes were obtained from the stomachs of the two fish species: SjChi-1 (1604 bp) and SjChi-2 (1512 bp) from chub mackerel and PaChi-1 (1630 bp) and PaChi-2 (1606 bp) from silver croaker. Expression analysis of these genes in the organs of the two species revealed strong expression of SjChi-1 in the stomach of chub mackerel and that of PaChi-1 andPaChi-2 in the stomach of silver croaker. The difference in the expression pattern of these genes is likely attributed to the difference in the feeding habits of the two fish species. Our results suggested the presence of novel chitinases in the two species.展开更多
Among APETALA2 (AP2)-type plant specific transcription factor family, WRINKLED1 (WRI1), has appeared to be a master gene transcriptionally regulating a set of carbon metabolism- and fatty acid synthesis (FAS)-related ...Among APETALA2 (AP2)-type plant specific transcription factor family, WRINKLED1 (WRI1), has appeared to be a master gene transcriptionally regulating a set of carbon metabolism- and fatty acid synthesis (FAS)-related genes responsible for seed specific triacylglycerols (TAGs) storage in oil plants. B3 type transcription factors, such as ABI3 and FUS3, are known to be involved in seed development, such as seed storage protein synthesis and maturation. Based on the recent whole genome sequence data of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.), putative WRI1 homologs (RcWRI1, RcWRI2) specifically expressed in castor bean seed have been identified by comparing organ specific expression profiles among seed development-related transcription factors, seed storage specific genes (Ricin, RcOleosin) and a set of FAS genes including genes for sucrose synthase (RcSUS2), biotin carboxyl carrier protein (a subunit of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, RcBCCP2) and ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase (RcKAS1). Immunoreactive signals with WRI1, FUS3 and ABI5-related polypeptides were also detected in seed specifically, consistent with the expression profiles of seed development-related genes. The WRI1 binding consensus sites, [CnTnG](n)(7)[CG], designated as the AW-box, were found at the promoter region of RcBCCP2 and RcKAS1. Thus, RcWRI1 possibly play a pivotal role in seed specific TAGs storage during seed development by directly activating FAS -related genes.展开更多
The construction of a homojunction is an effective approach for addressing issues such as slow charge separation and charge-transfer kinetics in photoanodes.In the present work,we designed a gradient Si-and Ti-doped F...The construction of a homojunction is an effective approach for addressing issues such as slow charge separation and charge-transfer kinetics in photoanodes.In the present work,we designed a gradient Si-and Ti-doped Fe_(2)O_(3) homojunction photoanode to improve the photoelectrochemical(PEC)performance of a Ti-doped Fe_(2)O_(3) photoanode.Ti-FeOOH nanocorals were synthesized using a hydrothermal process,and Si-FeOOH was grown on Ti-FeOOH nanocorals using a rapid and facile microwaveassisted(MW)technique.By varying the MW irradiation time,the thickness of the Si/Ti:Fe_(2)O_(3) photoanode was adjusted and an optimized 3-Si/Ti:Fe_(2)O_(3) photoelectrode was achieved with a significantly enhanced photocurrent density(1.37 mA cm^(-2) at 1.23 V vs.RHE)and a cathodic shift of the onset potential(150 mV)compared with that of bare Ti-Fe_(2)O_(3).This enhanced PEC performance can be ascribed to homojunction formation and Si gradient doping.The Si dopant increased the donor concentration and the formation of a homojunction improved the intrinsic built-in electric field,thereby promoting charge separation and charge transfer.Furthermore,the as-formed homojunction passivated the surfacetrapping states,consequently improving the charge transfer efficiency(60%at 1.23 VRHE)at the photoanode/electrolyte interface.These findings could pave the way for the microwave-assisted fabrication of diverse efficient homojunction photoanodes for PEC water splitting applications.展开更多
The objective of this study is to evaluate the suppressive effect of buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate on postprandial hyperglycemia and identify the peptide responsible to the function. Buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate was ...The objective of this study is to evaluate the suppressive effect of buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate on postprandial hyperglycemia and identify the peptide responsible to the function. Buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate was prepared by using digestive enzymes and was orally administered to rats together with soluble starch. The blood was taken from the tail vein up to 90 min after oral administration to measure blood-glucose and plasma-insulin levels. The peptide with α-amylase inhibitory activity was purified from the buckwheathydrolysate by gel-filtration chromatography, α-amylase affinity chromatography, and high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC). The amino-acid sequence of the peptide was identified by a protein sequencer and was compared with that in the buckwheat-genome database. Buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate significantly suppressed the elevation of blood glucose level 15 min after starch administration. The amino-acid sequence of the peptide with α-amylase inhibitory activity was YVEPDCGNLGCCYHC in the parental protein of molecular mass 17.8 k Da and theoretical pI 4.77. The amino-acid sequence, molecular weight, and pI of the parental protein in buckwheat albumin were different from those of α-amylase inhibitor in wheat albumin. This study suggests that the novel α-amylase inhibitor identified in buckwheat albumin is a potential candidate for a functional food material to suppress postprandial blood glucose elevation.展开更多
Floral and reproductive organs of higher plants are relatively sensitive to biotic and abiotic stresses compared with the vegetative organs. Calcineurin B-like molecule (CBL) interacting protein kinase (CIPK) has appe...Floral and reproductive organs of higher plants are relatively sensitive to biotic and abiotic stresses compared with the vegetative organs. Calcineurin B-like molecule (CBL) interacting protein kinase (CIPK) has appeared to be involved in acquired tolerance and acclimation under environmental stresses such as salinity, drought and chilling. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR using the vegetative and reproductive organs of tomato Micro-Tom (Solanum lycopersicum L.) at the various developmental stages indicated that SlCIPK2 was expressed specifically in the floral organ. An anti-CIPK specific antibody recognized the recombinant SlCIPK2 specifically and cross-reacted to a CIPK-related polypeptide at a significant level in flower, particularly in stamen. The flower specific CIPK was tightly associated with the microsomes. In vitro pull-down assay of the recombinant SlCIPK2 showed that SlCIPK2 interacts with SlCBLs and stress-responsive transcription factors, SlERF7, SlCBF1 and SlAREB1. The present data suggested that the flower-specific CIPK, SlCIPK2, was involved in calcium signaling in tomato via CBLs and stress tolerance possibly mediated by the stress-responsive transcription factors in stamen.展开更多
Aim: To confirm the stability of exogenous genes in the generation of transgenic chickens using ejaculated chicken sperm, the deoxyribonuclease (DNase) activity was evaluated in the seminal plasma of ejaculated semen ...Aim: To confirm the stability of exogenous genes in the generation of transgenic chickens using ejaculated chicken sperm, the deoxyribonuclease (DNase) activity was evaluated in the seminal plasma of ejaculated semen and the stability of DNA was examined by adding lipofection reagents. Methods: A PCR fragment (249 bp) of pEGFPN-1 vector was used as the DNA substrate and was incubated with the seminal plasma at 40 ℃ for 30 min. Then, the whole reaction solution was subjected to agarose gel electrophoresis and the DNA size was evaluated under UV light. Results: The DNA substrate was completely diminished after incubation with seminal plasma. However, the substrate was intact after incubation with heat-treated seminal plasma or incubation with seminal plasma in the presence of 0.5 mmol/L -5 mmol/L EDTA. The substrate was stabilized in the seminal plasma by the addition of commercially available lipofection reagents. Conclusion: The DNase activity is present in the seminal plasma of ejaculated chicken semen. However, DNA is stable in the liposomal-DNA complex.展开更多
Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids （PUFAs）, which are abundant in marine fish oils, have recently received global attention for their prominent anti-obesogenic effects. Among PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid （EPA; 20...Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids （PUFAs）, which are abundant in marine fish oils, have recently received global attention for their prominent anti-obesogenic effects. Among PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid （EPA; 20：5n-3） and docosahexaenoic acid （DHA; 22：6n-3）, which are n-3 long-chain PUFAs widely referred to as omega-3 oils, were reported to prevent the development of obesity in rodents and humans. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-obesity effects of microalgal oil on high-fat induced obese C57BL/6 mice, compared with commercial omega-3 fish oil and vegetable corn oil. Microalgal oil is an inherent mixture of several PUFAs, including EPA, DHA and other fatty acids produced from a marine microalgal strain of Thraustochytriidae sp. derived mutant. It was found to contain more PUFAs （〉80%） and more omega-3 oils than commercial omega-3 fish oil （PUFAs 〉31%） and corn oil （PUFAs 59%）. All three types of oils induced weight loss in high-fat-induced obese mice, with the loss induced by microalgal oil being most significant at 9 weeks （10% reduction）. However, the oils tested did not improve blood lipid levels, although microalgal oil showed an apparent inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation in the liver. These findings may be attributed to the higher PUFA content, including omega-3 oils of microalgal oil than other oils. Collectively, these findings suggest that microalgal oil, derived from Thraustochytriidae sp. derived mutant, is a prominent candidate for replacement of omega-3 fish oils based on its apparent anti-obesity effect in vivo.展开更多
To improve several agronomic traits in crisphead lettuce(Lactuca sativa L.)under high-temperature growth conditions,we investigated the correlation among those traits in multiple cultivars and performed genetic mappin...To improve several agronomic traits in crisphead lettuce(Lactuca sativa L.)under high-temperature growth conditions,we investigated the correlation among those traits in multiple cultivars and performed genetic mapping of their causal genes.In a field cultivation test of Empire type(serrated leaf)and Salinas type(wavy leaf)cultivars,Empire type cultivars showed increased tipburn susceptibility and late bolting compared with Salinas type cultivars.We attempted genetic mapping of leaf shape and bolting time by ddRAD-seq using the F2 population derived from a cross between‘VI185’(Empire type)and‘ShinanoGreen’(Salinas type).These analyses suggested that both traits are controlled by a single locus in LG5.Genotyping of 51 commercial lettuce cultivars with a tightly linked marker(LG5_v8_252.743Mbp)at this locus showed an association between its genotype and the serrated leaf phenotype.By further fine mapping and transcriptome analysis,a gene encoding putative CIN-like TCP transcription factor was determined to be a candidate gene at this locus and was designated as LsTCP4.An insertion of retrotransposable element was found in the allele of‘VI185’,and its transcript level in the leaves was lower than that in‘ShinanoGreen’.Because shapes of leaf epidermal cells in‘VI185’were similar to those in the TCP family mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana,the leaf shape phenotype was likely caused by reduced expression of LsTCP4.Furthermore,because it is known that the TCP family protein also controls flowering time via interaction with FT in A.thaliana,it was highly possible that LsTCP4 gave pleiotropic effects on both leaf shape and bolting time in lettuce.展开更多
The hypothesis that the product of discharge and concentration of nitrogen (N) in river water is equal to the atmospheric deposition was verified in the mountainous basin of the Tedori River in Japan. To verify this r...The hypothesis that the product of discharge and concentration of nitrogen (N) in river water is equal to the atmospheric deposition was verified in the mountainous basin of the Tedori River in Japan. To verify this relationship, long-term data?are required to eliminate the effect of short-term variation of the N components. The basin has very high mountains, including Mount Hakusan (2702 maltitude), which is covered with deep snow in winter. Therefore, limited data were used for the estimation of the deposition of the entire basin by assuming a linear relationship of altitude. As a result, it was found that the estimated N concentration coincided well with observed concentrations at six sites—the Shiramine and Kuwajima (upper stream), Nakajima (lower stream) and Dainichi dam, Tedori dam and Senami sites (middle stream). The seasonal variation of N concentrations was low in the snowmelt period and high in autumn through to winter. This was not due to the larger discharge in snowmelt season as it was also found that N deposition was high in winter and low in spring, which indicated a clear relationship between N concentration and monthly atmospheric deposition including N storage in snow pack.展开更多
文摘Aim： To assess the effect of estradiol-17β （E2） and bisphenol A （BPA） administered chronically by implanting a silicone tube throughout pregnancy and lactation on male pups＇ reproductive system in ICR mice. Methods： Female mice were implanted with a tube filled with 10 ng, 500 ng, 1 μg, or 10 μg of E2, or 100 μg or 5 mg of BPA, before mating. The tube was kept in the mice throughout pregnancy and lactation, until the pups had weaned at 4 weeks of age. During the period, E2 was released from the tube at 120 pg or 6, 12 or 120 ng/day, and BPA at 1.2 or 60 μg/day. Results： Most of the mice given 1 μg and 10 lag of E2 did not maintain their pregnancy. However, the other groups showed high rates of birth, more than 70%. At age of 4 weeks, the male pups were killed. Body weight and reproductive organ weights （testes, epididymides and accessory reproductive glands） in the treated groups did not differ from the control values, whereas the percentage of seminiferous tubules in the testis with mature spermatids was significantly lower in the groups given 10 ng and 500 ng of E2 and 5 mg of BPA than that in the control. Conclusion： Chronic exposure to E2 and BPA might disrupt spermatogenesis in male pups. （Asian JAndrol 2008 Mar; 10： 271-276）
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 41025005 and 40871144)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)-Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) Cooperative Research Project (No. 30821140538)
文摘Aluminum （Al） is very toxic to many living organisms, including plants, animals and microorganisms. However, despite many studies on Al tolerance in plants, little has been reported concerning these mechanisms in microorganisms. In this study, a red yeast, which could tolerate Al3＋ concentrations as high as 200 mmol L-1, was isolated from acidic soils, identified as Rhodotorula sp. and designated as RS1. As the medium compositions can greatly affect the responses of microorganisms to Al, two culture mediums, glucose medium （GM） and lysogeny broth medium containing soil extract （S-LBM）, were used. During growth of RS1, the pH of medium decreased in GM but increased in S-LBM. These changes in the pH of the media were not induced by Al addition. No or little secretion of organic acids was observed in RS1 growth media. Importantly, the thickness of the cell walls and the ratio of cell wall to biomass of RS1 significantly increased in GM with high Al3＋ concentrations. In the presence of 100 mmol Al L-1, 78.0% of the total A1 of whole cells was present in the thickened cell walls. The Al in cell walls was mostly bound to OH, amide and CO groups of polysaccharides. These results suggest that thickening of the cell wall in response to the high Al3＋ concentrations may play an important role in the high tolerance of RS1 to Al and that pH increase of the medium and chelation of Al ions are not involved in Al tolerance of this organism.
基金supported by the 2016 Research Fund of Andong National University,Gyeongbuk Province,Korea
文摘In this study, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria（PGPR） were evaluated as potential biocontrol agents against postharvest pathogens of apple fruits. In vitro bioassays revealed that, out of 30 isolates screened, isolates APEC136 and APEC170 had the most significant inhibitory effects against the mycelial growth of several fungal pathogens. Analysis of 16 S ribosomal RNA（rR NA） sequences identified the two effective isolates as Paenibacillus polymyxa and Bacillus subtilis, respectively. The two strains showed greater growth in brain-heart infusion broth than in other growth media. Treatment of harvested apples with suspensions of either strain reduced the symptoms of anthracnose disease caused by two fungal pathogens, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Colletotrichum acutatum, and white rot disease caused by Botryosphaeria dothidea. Increased productions of amylase and protease by APEC136, and increased productions of chitinase, amylase, and protease by APEC170 might have been responsible for inhibiting mycelial growth. The isolates caused a greater reduction in the growth of white rot than of anthracnose. These results indicate that the isolates APEC136 and APEC170 are promising agents for the biocontrol of anthracnose and white rot diseases in apples after harvest, and suggest that these isolates may be useful in controlling these diseases under field conditions.
基金supported by Agricultural R&D Promotion Center,South Korea (No. 060101001)
文摘A heavy metal contaminated soil sample collected from a mine in Chonnam Province of South Korea was found to be a source of heavy metal adsorbing biosorbents. Chemical analyses showed high contents of lead （Pb） at 357 mg/kg and cyanide （CN） at 14.6 mg/kg in the soil. The experimental results showed that Penicillium sp. MRF-1 was the best lead resistant fungus among the four individual metal tolerant fungal species isolated from the soil. Molecular characterization of Penicillium sp. MRF-1 was determined using ITS regions sequences. Effects of pH, temperature and contact time on adsorption of Pb（Ⅱ） by Penicillium sp. MRF-1 were studied. Favorable conditions for maximum biosportion were found at pH 4 with 3 hr contact time. Biosorption of Pb（Ⅱ） gradually increased with increasing temperature. Efficient performance of the biosorbent was described using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. Adsorption kinetics was studied using pseudo first-order and pseudo second-order models. Biosorbent Penicillium sp. MRF-1 showed the maximum desorption in alkali conditions. Consistent adsorption/desorption potential of the biosorbent in repetitive cycles validated the efficacy of it in large scale. SEM studies given notes on surface modification of fungal biomass under metal stress and FT-IR results showed the presence of amino groups in the surface structure of the biosorbent. In conclusion, the new biosorbent Penicillium sp. MRF- 1 may potentially be used as an inexpensive, easily cultivatable material for the removal of lead from aqueous solution.
文摘Biogas production generates digested slurry as a byproduct. It can be used as a fertilizer especially after its conversion into digested liquid. A pot based study was conducted in order to evaluate the effect of the application of digested liquid on CH4 and N2O flux, and plant biomass in paddy. Analysis revealed that digested liquid treated soils released more CH4 compared to ammonium sulphate and the control. Ammonium sulphate treated soil emitted the highest N20 whereas digested liquid application decreased its emission significantly. Further, the cumulative emission over 101 d of the experiment was found to be higher for CHa （16.9 to 29.9 g m^-2） compared to N20 （-49.3 to 18.9 mg m^-2） for all treatments. Digested liquid application had positive impact on plant variables such as panicle number and weight of panicles. This study suggests that digested liquid application significantly decrease N20 emission and increase CH4 emission possibly due to affecting the availability of organic C in the soil to microbial activity for methanogenesis. Another possibility for enhancing CH4 emission by following biogas digested liquid could be attributed to the increase in plant biomass.
文摘Chitinolytic activities were measured in two fish species having different feeding habits, chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus) and silver croaker (Pennahia argentata). Chitinase (an endo-type chitinolytic enzyme) activity was measured using pNP-(GlcNAc)n (n = 2, 3) as substrates;its level was significantly high in the stomachs of both species, as well as in the gills, intestine, pyloric appendage, testis, and liver of chub mackerel and in the spleen, kidney, pyloric appendage, ovaries, heart, and liver of silver croaker. β-N-Acetylhexosaminidase (an exo-type chitinolytic enzyme) activity was measured using pNP-(GlcNAc) as a substrate;it was detected at high levels in many parts apart from the digestive tracts of both species. The optimum pH for chitinase activity was 3.0 - 5.0 in the stomachs of both species, 4.0 in the liver of chub mackerel, and 4.0 and 8.0 in the kidney of silver croaker. Full-length cDNAs encoding two chitinase isozymes were obtained from the stomachs of the two fish species: SjChi-1 (1604 bp) and SjChi-2 (1512 bp) from chub mackerel and PaChi-1 (1630 bp) and PaChi-2 (1606 bp) from silver croaker. Expression analysis of these genes in the organs of the two species revealed strong expression of SjChi-1 in the stomach of chub mackerel and that of PaChi-1 andPaChi-2 in the stomach of silver croaker. The difference in the expression pattern of these genes is likely attributed to the difference in the feeding habits of the two fish species. Our results suggested the presence of novel chitinases in the two species.
文摘Among APETALA2 (AP2)-type plant specific transcription factor family, WRINKLED1 (WRI1), has appeared to be a master gene transcriptionally regulating a set of carbon metabolism- and fatty acid synthesis (FAS)-related genes responsible for seed specific triacylglycerols (TAGs) storage in oil plants. B3 type transcription factors, such as ABI3 and FUS3, are known to be involved in seed development, such as seed storage protein synthesis and maturation. Based on the recent whole genome sequence data of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.), putative WRI1 homologs (RcWRI1, RcWRI2) specifically expressed in castor bean seed have been identified by comparing organ specific expression profiles among seed development-related transcription factors, seed storage specific genes (Ricin, RcOleosin) and a set of FAS genes including genes for sucrose synthase (RcSUS2), biotin carboxyl carrier protein (a subunit of acetyl-CoA carboxylase, RcBCCP2) and ketoacyl-acyl carrier protein synthase (RcKAS1). Immunoreactive signals with WRI1, FUS3 and ABI5-related polypeptides were also detected in seed specifically, consistent with the expression profiles of seed development-related genes. The WRI1 binding consensus sites, [CnTnG](n)(7)[CG], designated as the AW-box, were found at the promoter region of RcBCCP2 and RcKAS1. Thus, RcWRI1 possibly play a pivotal role in seed specific TAGs storage during seed development by directly activating FAS -related genes.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)funded by the Korean government(MSIT)(NRF-2021R1A2C1095669 and NRF-2021R1F1A104936)。
文摘The construction of a homojunction is an effective approach for addressing issues such as slow charge separation and charge-transfer kinetics in photoanodes.In the present work,we designed a gradient Si-and Ti-doped Fe_(2)O_(3) homojunction photoanode to improve the photoelectrochemical(PEC)performance of a Ti-doped Fe_(2)O_(3) photoanode.Ti-FeOOH nanocorals were synthesized using a hydrothermal process,and Si-FeOOH was grown on Ti-FeOOH nanocorals using a rapid and facile microwaveassisted(MW)technique.By varying the MW irradiation time,the thickness of the Si/Ti:Fe_(2)O_(3) photoanode was adjusted and an optimized 3-Si/Ti:Fe_(2)O_(3) photoelectrode was achieved with a significantly enhanced photocurrent density(1.37 mA cm^(-2) at 1.23 V vs.RHE)and a cathodic shift of the onset potential(150 mV)compared with that of bare Ti-Fe_(2)O_(3).This enhanced PEC performance can be ascribed to homojunction formation and Si gradient doping.The Si dopant increased the donor concentration and the formation of a homojunction improved the intrinsic built-in electric field,thereby promoting charge separation and charge transfer.Furthermore,the as-formed homojunction passivated the surfacetrapping states,consequently improving the charge transfer efficiency(60%at 1.23 VRHE)at the photoanode/electrolyte interface.These findings could pave the way for the microwave-assisted fabrication of diverse efficient homojunction photoanodes for PEC water splitting applications.
文摘The objective of this study is to evaluate the suppressive effect of buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate on postprandial hyperglycemia and identify the peptide responsible to the function. Buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate was prepared by using digestive enzymes and was orally administered to rats together with soluble starch. The blood was taken from the tail vein up to 90 min after oral administration to measure blood-glucose and plasma-insulin levels. The peptide with α-amylase inhibitory activity was purified from the buckwheathydrolysate by gel-filtration chromatography, α-amylase affinity chromatography, and high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC). The amino-acid sequence of the peptide was identified by a protein sequencer and was compared with that in the buckwheat-genome database. Buckwheat-albumin hydrolysate significantly suppressed the elevation of blood glucose level 15 min after starch administration. The amino-acid sequence of the peptide with α-amylase inhibitory activity was YVEPDCGNLGCCYHC in the parental protein of molecular mass 17.8 k Da and theoretical pI 4.77. The amino-acid sequence, molecular weight, and pI of the parental protein in buckwheat albumin were different from those of α-amylase inhibitor in wheat albumin. This study suggests that the novel α-amylase inhibitor identified in buckwheat albumin is a potential candidate for a functional food material to suppress postprandial blood glucose elevation.
文摘Floral and reproductive organs of higher plants are relatively sensitive to biotic and abiotic stresses compared with the vegetative organs. Calcineurin B-like molecule (CBL) interacting protein kinase (CIPK) has appeared to be involved in acquired tolerance and acclimation under environmental stresses such as salinity, drought and chilling. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR using the vegetative and reproductive organs of tomato Micro-Tom (Solanum lycopersicum L.) at the various developmental stages indicated that SlCIPK2 was expressed specifically in the floral organ. An anti-CIPK specific antibody recognized the recombinant SlCIPK2 specifically and cross-reacted to a CIPK-related polypeptide at a significant level in flower, particularly in stamen. The flower specific CIPK was tightly associated with the microsomes. In vitro pull-down assay of the recombinant SlCIPK2 showed that SlCIPK2 interacts with SlCBLs and stress-responsive transcription factors, SlERF7, SlCBF1 and SlAREB1. The present data suggested that the flower-specific CIPK, SlCIPK2, was involved in calcium signaling in tomato via CBLs and stress tolerance possibly mediated by the stress-responsive transcription factors in stamen.
文摘Aim: To confirm the stability of exogenous genes in the generation of transgenic chickens using ejaculated chicken sperm, the deoxyribonuclease (DNase) activity was evaluated in the seminal plasma of ejaculated semen and the stability of DNA was examined by adding lipofection reagents. Methods: A PCR fragment (249 bp) of pEGFPN-1 vector was used as the DNA substrate and was incubated with the seminal plasma at 40 ℃ for 30 min. Then, the whole reaction solution was subjected to agarose gel electrophoresis and the DNA size was evaluated under UV light. Results: The DNA substrate was completely diminished after incubation with seminal plasma. However, the substrate was intact after incubation with heat-treated seminal plasma or incubation with seminal plasma in the presence of 0.5 mmol/L -5 mmol/L EDTA. The substrate was stabilized in the seminal plasma by the addition of commercially available lipofection reagents. Conclusion: The DNase activity is present in the seminal plasma of ejaculated chicken semen. However, DNA is stable in the liposomal-DNA complex.
基金supported by a grant from the KRIBB Research Initiative Program(KGM2211531)supported by Priority Research Centers Program through NRF funded by the Ministry of Education,Science and Technology (2015R1A6A1A04020885)
文摘Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids （PUFAs）, which are abundant in marine fish oils, have recently received global attention for their prominent anti-obesogenic effects. Among PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid （EPA; 20：5n-3） and docosahexaenoic acid （DHA; 22：6n-3）, which are n-3 long-chain PUFAs widely referred to as omega-3 oils, were reported to prevent the development of obesity in rodents and humans. In the present study, we evaluated the anti-obesity effects of microalgal oil on high-fat induced obese C57BL/6 mice, compared with commercial omega-3 fish oil and vegetable corn oil. Microalgal oil is an inherent mixture of several PUFAs, including EPA, DHA and other fatty acids produced from a marine microalgal strain of Thraustochytriidae sp. derived mutant. It was found to contain more PUFAs （〉80%） and more omega-3 oils than commercial omega-3 fish oil （PUFAs 〉31%） and corn oil （PUFAs 59%）. All three types of oils induced weight loss in high-fat-induced obese mice, with the loss induced by microalgal oil being most significant at 9 weeks （10% reduction）. However, the oils tested did not improve blood lipid levels, although microalgal oil showed an apparent inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation in the liver. These findings may be attributed to the higher PUFA content, including omega-3 oils of microalgal oil than other oils. Collectively, these findings suggest that microalgal oil, derived from Thraustochytriidae sp. derived mutant, is a prominent candidate for replacement of omega-3 fish oils based on its apparent anti-obesity effect in vivo.
基金supported by grants from the Ministry of Agriculture,Forestry and Fisheries of Japan(Project for Climate Change,Vegetable-4103)for K.S.,Cooperative Research Grant of the Genome Research for BioResource,NODAI Genome Research Center,Tokyo University of Agriculture for K.S.and K.K.,Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research for K.K.,MEXT-Supported Program for the Strategic Research Foundation at Private Universities,2013-2017(S1311017)for K.K.We thank Rumi Ohtake of NODAI Genome Research Center,Tokyo University of Agriculture,and Masaki Kawakami of the Nagano Vegetable Ornamental Crops Experiment Station for helpful discussion and advice.We also thank Chizuru Kagami,Yoko Takahashi,Yoshie Nakayama,and especially Atsushi Tsukada and Hideaki Okazawa for technical assistance in the field experiment.We also thank Akane Igarashi,Reina Ohwaki,and Hiroto Kayama for technical assistance in the RNA-seq analysis and genome sequencing,Naho Takahashi for technical assistance in the extraction of genomic DNA.Moreover,we also thank‘Bas Breau’at hakuba for helpful assistance.
文摘To improve several agronomic traits in crisphead lettuce(Lactuca sativa L.)under high-temperature growth conditions,we investigated the correlation among those traits in multiple cultivars and performed genetic mapping of their causal genes.In a field cultivation test of Empire type(serrated leaf)and Salinas type(wavy leaf)cultivars,Empire type cultivars showed increased tipburn susceptibility and late bolting compared with Salinas type cultivars.We attempted genetic mapping of leaf shape and bolting time by ddRAD-seq using the F2 population derived from a cross between‘VI185’(Empire type)and‘ShinanoGreen’(Salinas type).These analyses suggested that both traits are controlled by a single locus in LG5.Genotyping of 51 commercial lettuce cultivars with a tightly linked marker(LG5_v8_252.743Mbp)at this locus showed an association between its genotype and the serrated leaf phenotype.By further fine mapping and transcriptome analysis,a gene encoding putative CIN-like TCP transcription factor was determined to be a candidate gene at this locus and was designated as LsTCP4.An insertion of retrotransposable element was found in the allele of‘VI185’,and its transcript level in the leaves was lower than that in‘ShinanoGreen’.Because shapes of leaf epidermal cells in‘VI185’were similar to those in the TCP family mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana,the leaf shape phenotype was likely caused by reduced expression of LsTCP4.Furthermore,because it is known that the TCP family protein also controls flowering time via interaction with FT in A.thaliana,it was highly possible that LsTCP4 gave pleiotropic effects on both leaf shape and bolting time in lettuce.
文摘The hypothesis that the product of discharge and concentration of nitrogen (N) in river water is equal to the atmospheric deposition was verified in the mountainous basin of the Tedori River in Japan. To verify this relationship, long-term data?are required to eliminate the effect of short-term variation of the N components. The basin has very high mountains, including Mount Hakusan (2702 maltitude), which is covered with deep snow in winter. Therefore, limited data were used for the estimation of the deposition of the entire basin by assuming a linear relationship of altitude. As a result, it was found that the estimated N concentration coincided well with observed concentrations at six sites—the Shiramine and Kuwajima (upper stream), Nakajima (lower stream) and Dainichi dam, Tedori dam and Senami sites (middle stream). The seasonal variation of N concentrations was low in the snowmelt period and high in autumn through to winter. This was not due to the larger discharge in snowmelt season as it was also found that N deposition was high in winter and low in spring, which indicated a clear relationship between N concentration and monthly atmospheric deposition including N storage in snow pack.
