Effect of Low Light on Photosynthetic Performance of Tomato Plants-Ailsa Craig and Carotenoid Mutant Tangerine

The effects of a five-day treatment with low light intensity on tomato plants-Ailsa Craig and tangerine mutant-at normal and low temperatures and after recovery for three days under control conditions were investigated. The tangerine tomato, which has orange fruits, yellowish young leaves, and pale blossoms, accumulates prolycopene rather than all-trans lycopene. We investigated the impact of low light at normal and low temperatures on the functioning and effectiveness of photosynthetic apparatuses of both plants. The photochemical activities of Photosystem I (PSI) and Photosystem II (PSII) were assessed, and the alterations in PSII antenna size were characterized by evaluating the abundance of PSII-associated proteins Lhcb1, Lhcb2, CP43, and CP47. Alterations in energy distribution and interaction of both photosystems were analyzed using 77K fluorescence. In Aisla Craig plants, an increase in thylakoid membrane fluidity was detected during treatment with low light at a low temperature, while for the tangerine mutant, no significant change was observed. The PSII activity of thylakoids from mutant tangerine was more strongly inhibited by treatment with low light at a low temperature while low light barely affected PSII in Aisla Craig. The obtained data indicated that the observed differences in the responses of photosynthetic apparatuses of Ailsa Craig and tangerine when exposed to low light intensity and suboptimal temperature were mainly related to the differences in sensitivity and antenna complexes of PSII.

Antioxidative Defense, Suppressed Nitric Oxide Accumulation, and Synthesis of Protective Proteins in Roots and Leaves Contribute to the Desiccation Tolerance of the Resurrection Plant Haberlea rhodopensis

The desiccation tolerance of plants relies on defense mechanisms that enable the protection of macromolecules, biological structures, and metabolism. Although the defense of leaf tissues exposed to solar irradiation is challenging, mechanisms that protect the viability of the roots, yet largely unexplored, are equally important for survival. Although the photosynthetic apparatus in leaves contributes to the generation of oxidative stress under drought stress, we hypothesized that oxidative stress and thus antioxidative defense is also predominant in the roots. Thus, we aimed for a comparative analysis of the protective mechanisms in leaves and roots during the desiccation of Haberlea rhodopensis. Consequently, a high content of non-enzymatic antioxidants and high activity of antioxidant enzymes together with the activation of specific isoenzymes were found in both leaves and roots during the final stages of desiccation of H. rhodopensis. Among others, catalase and glutathione reductase activity showed a similar tendency of changes in roots and leaves, whereas, unlike that in the leaves, superoxide dismutase activity was enhanced under severe but not under medium desiccation in roots. Nitric oxide accumulation in the root tips was found to be sensitive to water restriction but suppressed under severe desiccation. In addition to the antioxidative defense, desiccation induced an enhanced abundance of dehydrins, ELIPs, and sHSP 17.7 in leaves, but this was significantly better in roots. In contrast to leaf cells, starch remained in the cells of the central cylinder of desiccated roots. Taken together, protective compounds and antioxidative defense mechanisms are equally important in protecting the roots to survive desiccation. Since drought-induced damage to the root system fundamentally affects the survival of plants, a better understanding of root desiccation tolerance mechanisms is essential to compensate for the challenges of prolonged dry periods.

Different Responses to Water Deficit of Two Common Winter Wheat Varieties: Physiological and Biochemical Characteristics

Since water scarcity is one of the main risks for the future of agriculture, studying the ability of different wheat genotypes to tolerate a water deficit is fundamental. This study examined the responses of two hybrid wheat varieties (Gizda and Fermer) with different drought resistance to moderate (3 days) and severe (7 days) drought stress, as well as their post-stress recovery to understand their underlying defense strategies and adaptive mechanisms in more detail. To this end, the dehydration-induced alterations in the electrolyte leakage, photosynthetic pigment content, membrane fluidity, energy interaction between pigment-protein complexes, primary photosynthetic reactions, photosynthetic and stress-induced proteins, and antioxidant responses were analyzed in order to unravel the different physiological and biochemical strategies of both wheat varieties. The results demonstrated that Gizda plants are more tolerant to severe dehydration compared to Fermer, as evidenced by the lower decrease in leaf water and pigment content, lower inhibition of photosystem II (PSII) photochemistry and dissipation of thermal energy, as well as lower dehydrins' content. Some of defense mechanisms by which Gizda variety can tolerate drought stress involve the maintenance of decreased chlorophyll content in leaves, increased fluidity of the thylakoid membranes causing structural alterations in the photosynthetic apparatus, as well as dehydration-induced accumulation of early light-induced proteins (ELIPs), an increased capacity for PSI cyclic electron transport and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD and APX), thus alleviating oxidative damage. Furthermore, the leaf content of total phenols, flavonoids, and lipid-soluble antioxidant metabolites was higher in Gizda than in Fermer.

Response of Pea Plants (Pisum sativum cv. Ran 1) to NaCl Treatment in Regard to Membrane Stability and Photosynthetic Activity

Salinity is one of the most extreme abiotic stress factors that negatively affect the development and productivity of plants. The salt-induced injuries depend on the salt tolerance of the plant species, salt concentration, time of exposure and developmental stage. Here, we report on the response of pea plants (Pisum sativum L. cv Ran 1) to exposure to increasing salt concentrations (100, 150 and 200 mM NaCl) for a short time period (5 days) and the ability of the plants to recover after the removal of salt. The water content, membrane integrity, lipid peroxidation, pigment content and net photosynthetic rate were determined for the pea leaves of the control, treated and recovered plants. Salt-induced alterations in the primary photosynthetic reactions and energy transfer between the main pigment-protein complexes in isolated thylakoid membranes were evaluated. The pea plants were able to recover from the treatment with 100 mM NaCl, while at higher concentrations, concentration-dependent water loss, the disturbance of the membrane integrity, lipid peroxidation and an increase in the pigment content were detected. The net photosynthetic rate, electron transport through the reaction centers of PSII and PSII, activity of PSIIα centers and energy transfer between the pigment-protein complexes were negatively affected and were not restored after the removal of NaCl.

[Orthodontic treatment as a stage of rational dental prosthetics]

OBJECTIVE

To improving the effectiveness of complex treatment of adult patients with the absence of individual teeth.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Clinical and radiological examination and comprehensive treatment of 37 patients with dental anomalies and the absence of individual teeth were carried out, 24 of them were women (average age 35 years), 13 men (average age 38 years). The patients were divided into two groups: the 1st group - 22 patients with distal occlusion; the 2nd group - 15 patients with mesial occlusion.

RESULTS

The results of the developed algorithms for the complex treatment of patients with dental anomalies and the absence of individual teeth during the bite of permanent teeth are presented on a clinical example. The complex treatment included orthodontic treatment using a bracket system, functional fixed telescopic appliance, orthodontic mini screws for bone support and further rational prosthetics. After conducting a clinical and radiological examination and analyzing the data obtained, an individual patient treatment plan was developed, which included orthodontic and orthopedic stages. Orthodontic treatment made it possible to normalize the position of the teeth, the shape of the dental alveolar arches, occlusal planes, improve the bite, which made it possible to prepare the patient for rational prosthetics. The chosen treatment plan was optimal and correct for this patient: all the tasks were solved with changes not only at the dental alveolar level, a stable dental ratio was achieved and not only dental, but also facial parameters were improved.

CONCLUSION

Orthodontic preparation of adult patients before orthopedic treatment significantly improves the quality of orthopedic treatment and allows to achieve the most stable functional and aesthetic results.

[The use of distal occlusion correctors during treatment on an individual lingual bracket system in adult patients]

A case of treatment of a 35-year-old patient with a retroposition of the lower jaw, distal occlusion of the posterior teeth, deep incisal overlap, narrowing of the deformity of the dentoalveolar arches, protrusion of the lower incisors, crowded position of the teeth, mismatch between the incisor lines, absence due to extraction of tooth 3.6, with impacted dystopic tooth 3.8 is presented. Fixed individual orthodontic appliances of the WIN («DW Lingual Systems GmbH» Germany) were used. It was found that the use of the Herbst apparatus in combination with the WIN lingual bracket system in adult patients helps to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic results. The use of a distal bite correction device is an additional support for the mesialization of the molars of the lower jaw.

The Role of Alternative Electron Pathways for Effectiveness of Photosynthetic Performance of Arabidopsis thaliana, Wt and Lut2, under Low Temperature and High Light Intensity

A recent investigation has suggested that the enhanced capacity for PSI-dependent cyclic electron flow (CEF) and PSI-dependent energy quenching that is related to chloroplast structural changes may explain the lower susceptibility of lut2 to combined stresses—a low temperature and a high light intensity. The possible involvement of alternative electron transport pathways, proton gradient regulator 5 (PGR5)-dependent CEF and plastid terminal oxidase (PTOX)-mediated electron transfer to oxygen in the response of Arabidopsis plants—wild type (wt) and lut2—to treatment with these two stressors was assessed by using specific electron transport inhibitors. Re-reduction kinetics of P₇₀₀⁺ indicated that the capacity for CEF was higher in lut2 when this was compared to wt. Exposure of wt plants to the stress conditions caused increased CEF and was accompanied by a substantial raise in PGR5 and PTOX quantities. In contrast, both PGR5 and PTOX levels decreased under the same stress conditions in lut2, and inhibiting PGR5-dependent pathway by AntA did not exhibit any significant effects on CEF during the stress treatment and recovery period. Electron microscopy observations demonstrated that under control conditions the degree of grana stacking was much lower in lut2, and it almost disappeared under the combined stresses, compared to wt. The role of differential responses of alternative electron transport pathways in the acclimation to the stress conditions that are studied is discussed.

Reactivation of the Photosynthetic Apparatus of Resurrection Plant Haberlea rhodopensis during the Early Phase of Recovery from Drought- and Freezing-Induced Desiccation

Haberlea rhodopensis is a unique desiccation-tolerant angiosperm that also survives winter frost. As, upon freezing temperatures, H. rhodopensis desiccates, the taxon is proposed to survive low temperature stress using its desiccation tolerance mechanisms. To reveal the validity of this hypothesis, we analyzed the structural alterations and organization of photosynthetic apparatus during the first hours of recovery after drought- and freezing-induced desiccation. The dynamics of the ultrastructure remodeling in the mesophyll cells and the restoration of the thylakoid membranes shared similarities independent of the reason for desiccation. Among the most obvious changes in thylakoid complexes, the proportion of the PSI-LHCII complex strongly increased around 70% relative water content (RWC), whereas the proportion of Lhc monomers decreased from the beginning of rehydration. We identified enhanced levels of cyt b₆f complex proteins that contributed to the enhanced electron flow. The high abundance of proteins related to excitation energy dissipation, PsbS, Lhcb5, Lhcb6 and ELIPs, together with the increased content of dehydrins contributed to the preservation of cellular integrity. ELIP expression was maintained at high levels up to 9 h into recovery. Although the recovery processes from drought- and freezing-induced desiccation were found to be similar in progress and time scale, slight variations indicate that they are not identical.

[Algorithms for orthodontic treatment of patients with maxillary constriction based on the stages of formation of the palatal suture]

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

Improving the effectiveness of complex orthodontic treatment of patients with constriction and deformation of the upper jaw during the period of replacement and permanent bite based on the analysis of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) data.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of complex treatment of 70 patients with constriction and deformation of the upper jaw during the period of temporary and permanent bite are presented. The patients were divided into groups according to the stage of formation of the midpalatal suture: 1st group - 40 patients with stage «A» and «B» (average age 11.5 years); 2nd group - 15 patients with stage «C» (average age 20.5 years); 3rd group - 15 patients with stage «D» and «E» (average age 24.5 years). Orthodontic treatment was carried out using palatine expanders with a dental and intraosseous type of fixation. The complex treatment consisted of: orthodontic treatment using a bracket system, transgingival laser corticotomy, piezocorticotomy, surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion, orthodontic appliances for the expansion of the upper jaw. After conducting a clinical X-ray examination of all patients and analyzing the data obtained, we developed algorithms for therapeutic measures.

RESULTS

As a result of the diagnosis and treatment planning, the expansion of the upper jaw was achieved both at the dental alveolar and skeletal levels. Detailed algorithms of complex treatment were developed based on the analysis of CBCT data, the stage of formation of the midpalatal suture individually for each patient.

CONCLUSION

It was found that the analysis of CBCT data makes it possible to choose the optimal treatment method for patients with skeletal deformities of the dentition complex, thereby increasing the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment.

[Assessment of dental arches expansion using ligature and passive self-ligating braces in combination with Pitts broad arches and early elastics]

THE AIM OF THE STUDY

Was to analyze the effectiveness of the use of Pitts Broad and early elastics in the treatment of patients with narrowing and deformation in dentition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of orthodontic treatment of 46 adult patients with narrowing and deformation in dentition are presented. Patients were separated in 2 groups, depending on the algorithm of treatment: group 1 - using the braces of passive self-ligation, Pitts Broad and early short elastics; group 2 - using ligature braces and archwires Orthos.

RESULTS

Biometric analysis of the diagnostic models of the 1^st group after treatment showed a significant increase in the area of the premolars on the upper (between premolars - 39.8±0.4 mm, between molars - 48.3±0.5 mm) and lower (between premolars - 37.1±0.5 mm, between molars - 46.3±0.6 mm) jaws compared to the data before treatment. Biometric analysis of the diagnostic models of the 2^d group showed that expansion in the area of the molars was achieved in a much smaller volume in the upper and lower jaws, compared with the 1^st group (upper jaw: between premolars - 35.7±0.4 mm, between molars - 43.5±0.5 mm; lower jaw: between premolars - 33.2±0.3 mm, between molars - 42.3±0.5 mm).

CONCLUSION

The passive self-ligation system in combination with protocol of Pitts Broad already contributes the expansion of dentition in aesthetically significant areas (distal regions) in the early stages of treatment. Using of early light elastics provides an early control of the lateral tooth torque, which allows achieving a harmonious and wide smile at the end of treatment.

Stabilization of Dry Sucrose Glasses by Four LEA_4 Proteins from Arabidopsis thaliana

Cells of many organisms and organs can withstand an (almost) total water loss (anhydrobiosis). Sugars play an essential role in desiccation tolerance due to their glass formation ability during dehydration. In addition, intrinsically disordered LEA proteins contribute to cellular survival under such conditions. One possible mechanism of LEA protein function is the stabilization of sugar glasses. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Here we used FTIR spectroscopy to investigate sucrose (Suc) glass stability dried from water or from two buffer components in the presence of four recombinant LEA and globular reference proteins. Buffer ions influenced the strength of the Suc glass in the order Suc < Suc/Tris < Suc/NaP. LEA proteins strengthened the sugar H-bonded network and the molecular structure in the glassy state. The position of νOH peak and the wavenumber–temperature coefficient (WTC_g) provided similar information about the H-bonded network. Protein aggregation of LEA proteins was reduced in the desiccation-induced Suc glassy state. Detailed knowledge about the role of LEA proteins in the stabilization of dry sugar glasses yields information about their role in anhydrobiosis. This may open the possibility to use such proteins in biotechnical applications requiring dry storage of biologicals such as proteins, cells or tissues.

[Algorithm for treatment of patients with class II malocclusion rejecting orthognathic surgery]

The aim of this study is to develop algorithms for the treatment of patients with class II malocclusion and incisor protrusion using the combination of bracket system, functional fixed telescopic appliance (FFTA) and skeletal anchorage, which allows to achieve effective dentoalveolar compensation of skeletal forms of class II malocclusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Orthodontic treatment of 60 patients with class II malocclusion at the age of 18 to 44 years, using the bracket system, FFTA and orthodontic miniscrews was performed. In order to assess the results of treatment, cone-beam computed tomography were obtained at the beginning and at the end of treatment.

RESULTS

As a result of the treatment normalization of lower jaw position, dental position and occlusion were achieved, the lower incisors protrusion was eliminated and the facial profile was improved, reliably confirmed by lateral cephalograms.

CONCLUSION

The proposed treatment algorithm proved to be effective for stable correction of skeletal class II malocclusion in patients rejecting orthognathic surgery.

[Improving the effectiveness of treatment of the adult patients with dentoalveolar anomalies and deformities using Er,Cr:YSGG laser: a clinical study]

THE AIM

Of the work is to develop and substantiate the method of minimally invasive complex orthodontic treatment of patients with constriction and deformation of the upper jaw in the period of permanent bite with the combined use of a bracket system, orthodontic devices for the expansion of the upper jaw and fractional photothermolysis to improve the effectiveness of complex treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The results of complex treatment of patients with the deficiency of the upper jaw in the period of permanent bite are presented. Complex treatment consisted of orthodontic treatment using a bracket system, laser corticotomy, orthodontic devices for the expansion of the upper jaw. Ultrasound examination before and after the procedure was performed to obtain reliable results of laser impact on bone tissue.

RESULTS

After conducting a clinical and radiological examination (using cone-beam computed tomography) of all patients and analyzing the data obtained, we have developed algorithms for therapeutic measures. As a result of orthodontic treatment aimed at the expansion of the upper jaw patients who underwent fractional photothermolysis procedure achieved the expansion of the upper jaw at both the dentoalveolar and skeletal levels.

CONCLUSION

It was found that a comprehensive approach with minimally invasive effects can improve the effectiveness of treatment of patients with constriction and deformation of the upper jaw during the period of permanent bite and achieve stable treatment results.

Mechanisms of Acinetobacter baumannii Capsular Polysaccharide Cleavage by Phage Depolymerases

Aerobic gram-negative bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii has recently become one of the most relevant pathogens associated with hospital-acquired infections worldwide. A. baumannii produces a capsule around the cell, which represents a thick viscous layer of structurally variable capsular polysaccharide (CPS). The capsule protects the bacteria against unfavorable environmental factors and biological systems, including bacteriophages and host immune system. Many A. baumannii phages have structural depolymerases (tailspikes) that specifically recognize and digest bacterial CPS. In this work, we studied the interaction of tailspike proteins of four lytic depolymerase-carrying phages with A. baumannii CPS. Depolymerases of three bacteriophages (Fri1, AS12, and BS46) were identified as specific glycosidases that cleave the CPS of A. baumannii strains 28, 1432, and B05, respectively, by the hydrolytic mechanism. The gp54 depolymerase from bacteriophage AP22 was characterized as a polysaccharide lyase that cleaves the CPS of A. baumannii strain 1053 by β-elimination at hexuronic acid (ManNAcA) residues.

[Orthodontic treatment of adult patients with mandibular retrognathia]

This article describes a case report of the patient with mandibular retrognathia, class II malocclusion, constriction and deformation of dental arches and bimaxillary protrusion. Due to the patient's refuse to undergo the orthognathic surgery, after diagnostic, it was decided to carry out the orthodontic dentoalveolar compensation. The combined use of the functional fixed telescopic appliance (FFTA), bracket system and orthodontic miniscrews made it possible to effectively normalize the mandibular position, achieve orthognathic occlusion, eliminate bimaxillary protrusion and improve the face profile. This method significantly reduced invasiveness and time of orthodontic treatment.

Senescence and entrenchment in evolution of amino acid sites

Amino acid propensities at a site change in the course of protein evolution. This may happen for two reasons. Changes may be triggered by substitutions at epistatically interacting sites elsewhere in the genome. Alternatively, they may arise due to environmental changes that are external to the genome. Here, we design a framework for distinguishing between these alternatives. Using analytical modelling and simulations, we show that they cause opposite dynamics of the fitness of the allele currently occupying the site: it tends to increase with the time since its origin due to epistasis ("entrenchment"), but to decrease due to random environmental fluctuations ("senescence"). By analysing the genomes of vertebrates and insects, we show that the amino acids originating at negatively selected sites experience strong entrenchment. By contrast, the amino acids originating at positively selected sites experience senescence. We propose that senescence of the current allele is a cause of adaptive evolution.

Low temperature and high light dependent dynamic photoprotective strategies in Arabidopsis thaliana

Arabidopsis thaliana has been recognized as a chilling tolerant species based on analysis of resistance to low temperature stress, however, the mechanisms involved in this tolerance are not yet clarified. The low temperature-induced effects are exacerbated when plants are exposed to low temperatures in the presence of high light irradiance but the experimental data on the impact of light intensity during cold stress and its influence during recovery from stress are rather limited. The main objective of this study was to re-examine the photosynthetic responses of A. thaliana plants to short term (6 days) low temperature stress (12/10°C) under optimal (150 μmol m^-2 s^-1 ) and high light (500 μmol m^-2 s^-1 ) intensity and the subsequent recovery from the stress. Simultaneous measurements of the in vivo and in vitro functional performance of both photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem I (PSI), as well as, net photosynthesis, low temperature (77 K) chlorophyll fluorescence and immunoblot analysis of the relative abundance of PSII and PSI reaction center proteins were used to evaluate the role of light in the development of possible protective mechanisms during low temperature stress and the consequent recovery from exposure to low temperature and different light intensities. The results presented clearly suggest that Arabidopsis plants can employ a number of highly dynamic photoprotective strategies depending on the light intensity. These strategies include one based on LHCII quenching and two other quenching mechanisms localized within the PSII and PSI reaction centers, which are all expressed to different extent depending on the severity of the photoinhibitory treatments under low temperature stress conditions.

[Tongue position assessment in patients before and after maxilla expansion]

The aim of this research is to increase the accuracy of determining the position of the tongue, the amount of space occupied by the tongue and space, free from tongue, increase of efficiency of diagnostics of dentofacial anomalies in patients based on CBCT analysis-the study of the skull conducted in transversal, sagittal and coronal planes. Clinical and x-ray examination and orthodontic treatment were carried out in 120 patients with anomalies of the dentition complex. Patients were divided into three groups. Group 1 - 30 patients aged 5 to 11 years. Group 2 - 50 patients aged 12 to 17 years. Group 3 - 40 patients aged 18 to 40 years. All patients underwent CT examination of the skull before treatment, and during the retention period of treatment. After a diagnostic examination of the proposed method for diagnosing the anatomical and functional state of the dentition complex and drawing up a treatment plan, all patients underwent orthodontic treatment, which consisted in the expansion of the upper jaw using various orthodontic appliances for expansion. This method allows to identify anomalies in the position of the tongue before and after orthodontic treatment, to assess the quality of orthodontic treatment, based on the analysis of not only the tongue filling the space of the dome of the palate, but also the position of the bone structures of the skull in three planes. The high quality of the study allows us to give a reliable assessment of the state of maxillofacial structures: the position of the upper and lower jaws, inclination of teeth, the stage of formation of the patient's growth, airway lumen and the influence of tongue on these structures at different stages of development of the maxillofacial skull. When comparing the results of the study, not all patients carried out recovered the anatomical and functional balance of the maxillofacial complex after orthodontic treatment, suggesting the need for more myogymnastics of the tongue before, during, and after treatment.

[Elimination of discoordination of the masticatory muscles work in patients with muscular-articular dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint by using «elastocorrector» appliance]

The aim of the study was to analyze the effectiveness of elastocorrective therapy in the complex treatment of patients with musculo-articular dysfunction of TMJ. Patients (n=237) underwent a comprehensive examination, including: 1) analysis of control and diagnostic plaster models of the jaws; 2) clinical examination; 3) X-ray examination: panoramic X-ray and TRG in lateral projection, computed tomography (CT) of the temporomandibular joint or X-ray zonography of the temporomandibular joint, and magnetic resonance tomography (MRI) of the temporomandibular joint, 4) electromyography of the chewing muscles, 5) T-Scan occlusion computer analysis; 6) stabilometry. After clinical, X-ray examination and data analysis of functional research methods, an algorithm for diagnostic and therapeutic measures was developed. All patients were prescribed the use of elastocorrector: at night during sleep and during the day for 1.5-2 hours. As a result of the use of elastocorrector in patients with muscle-articular dysfunction of the TMJ the position of the mandible was normalized and the spatial ratio of TMJ elements was optimized, the masticatory muscles function and bioelectric activity was normalized and the overload of muscles of mastication during functional movements is eliminated. «Elastocorrector» appliance can be used in patients with TMJ musculo-articular dysfunction both for orthodontic treatment (to eliminate chewing muscle hypertonus, compression of intra-articular structures, premature occlusive contacts) and to prepare for further treatment (orthopedic, therapeutic, etc.).

Elucidation of the K32 Capsular Polysaccharide Structure and Characterization of the KL32 Gene Cluster of Acinetobacter baumannii LUH5549

Capsular polysaccharide (CPS), isolated from Acinetobacter baumannii LUH5549 carrying the KL32 capsule biosynthesis gene cluster, was studied by sugar analysis, Smith degradation, and one- and two-dimensional ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy. The K32 CPS was found to be composed of branched pentasaccharide repeats (K units) containing two residues of β-D-GalpNAc and one residue of β-D-GlcpA (β-D-glucuronic acid) in the main chain and one residue each of β-D-Glcp and α-D-GlcpNAc in the disaccharide side chain. Consistent with the established CPS structure, the KL32 gene cluster includes genes for a UDP-glucose 6-dehydrogenase (Ugd3) responsible for D-GlcA synthesis and four glycosyltransferases that were assigned to specific linkages. Genes encoding an acetyltransferase and an unknown protein product were not involved in CPS biosynthesis. Whilst the KL32 gene cluster has previously been found in the global clone 2 (GC2) lineage, LUH5549 belongs to the sequence type ST354, thus demonstrating horizontal gene transfer between these lineages.

[Complex orthodontic-surgical rehabilitation of adults with malocclusions and deformations in dentition]

The aim of the study was the development and substantiation of the method of orthodontic treatment of patients with malocclusions and deformities of dentoalveolar arches with the combined use of braces, orthodontic miniscrew, piezo-surgical corticotomy or laser corticotomy to improve the efficiency and reduce the time of complex treatment. The results of complex rehabilitation of 80 adult patients with dentoalveolar anomalies and deformities of dentition are presented. As a result of the orthodontic treatment of patients who underwent piezo-surgical corticotomy the bodily movement of the posterior teeth in the area of the previously removed tooth was achieved. After piezo-surgical or laser corticotomy the rate of tooth protraction remained elevated for 3 to 5 months (on average 0.3±0.5 mm/month), then gradually decreased. Piezo-surgical corticotomy led to a decrease in bone density, which was measured on the Hounsfield scale. As a result of orthodontic treatment in patients who underwent laser corticotomy an expansion of the upper jaw and normalization of occlusion in the transversal and sagittal directions was achieved: in the region of the hard palate by 7.1±0.4 mm; in the region of the alveolar bone by 6.5±0.5 mm; in the region of the roots of molars by 6.4±0.9 mm; in the area of crowns of molars by 8.3±0.7 mm. It was found that the combined use of piezo-surgical corticotomy and orthodontic miniscrews improve the efficiency and reduce the duration of orthodontic treatment by 3 to 6 months.

Differential temperature effects on dissipation of excess light energy and energy partitioning in lut2 mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana under photoinhibitory conditions

The high-light-induced alterations in photosynthetic performance of photosystem II (PSII) and photosystem I (PSI) as well as effectiveness of dissipation of excessive absorbed light during illumination for different periods of time at room (22 °C) and low (8-10 °C) temperature of leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana, wt and lut2, were followed with the aim of unraveling the role of lutein in the process of photoinhibition. Photosynthetic parameters of PSII and PSI were determined on whole leaves by PAM fluorometer and oxygen evolving activity-by a Clark-type electrode. In thylakoid membranes, isolated from non-illuminated and illuminated for 4.5 h leaves of wt and lut2 the photochemical activity of PSII and PSI and energy interaction between the main pigment-protein complexes was determined. Results indicate that in non-illuminated leaves of lut2 the maximum rate of oxygen evolution and energy utilization in PSII is lower, excitation pressure of PSII is higher and cyclic electron transport around PSI is faster than in wt leaves. Under high-light illumination, lut2 leaves are more sensitive in respect to PSII performance and the extent of increase of excitation pressure of PSII, Φ_NO, and cyclic electron transport around PSI are higher than in wt leaves, especially when illumination is performed at low temperature. Significant part of the excessive light energy is dissipated via mechanism, not dependent on ∆pH and to functioning of xanthophyll cycle in LHCII, operating more intensively in lut2 leaves.

Structure of the K82 Capsular Polysaccharide from Acinetobacter baumannii LUH5534 Containing a d-Galactose 4,6-Pyruvic Acid Acetal

Type K82 capsular polysaccharide (CPS) was isolated from Acinetobacter baumannii LUH5534. The structure of a linear tetrasaccharide repeating unit of the CPS was established by sugar analysis along with one- and two-dimensional ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy. Proteins encoded by the KL82 capsule gene cluster in the genome of LUH5534 were assigned to roles in the synthesis of the K82 CPS. In particular, functions were assigned to two new glycosyltransferases (Gtr152 and Gtr153) and a novel pyruvyltransferase, Ptr5, responsible for the synthesis of d-galactose 4,6-(R)-pyruvic acid acetal.

[A regularity changes occlusal plane inclination in the case of treatment of distocclusion by fixed individual lingual appliance]

The use of the lingual individual orthodontic appliance is accompanied by prematurity contact of the front teeth, which affects the rotation of the occlusal plane, especially in cases with distocclusion and deep overbite. The study of regularities of changes in the inclination of the occlusal plane is an important diagnostic feature, contributes to treatment planning and obtaining sustainable results.

AIM

To assess the direction of rotation and the degree of change in inclination of the occlusal plane in cases with distocclusion.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 56 patients, of which 44 were female and 12 were male, with distal occlusion of the dentition and deep overbite. We studied the position of the occlusal plane, relative to the geometric center of the Ramus - point Xi in two groups of patients: 50% with occlusal Biteplanes and 50% without occlusal Biteplanes in the upper canine's brackets.

RESULTS

In both groups, the position of the occlusal plane, relative to the point Xi, has improved: in the first - by 1.2 mm, the second - by 2.4 mm.

CONCLUSION

The comparison of the dataset shows automatical improving of position of the occlusal plane in both groups. The most pronounced changes, detected in the treatment with lingual braces, shows Biteplane group.

[Effects of smoking and alcohol consumptionon reproductive and metabolic indicators in young men in western siberia]

INTRODUCTION

Smoking and alcohol consumption remain widespread throughout the world, including Russia. Recently, due to the increase in male infertility and subfertility, special attention has been paid to the effects of smoking and alcohol on the reproductive health of young men. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of smoking and moderate alcohol consumption on spermatogenesis, reproductive hormone levels and metabolic status in young men living in Western Siberia (Novosibirsk).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred thirty-three volunteers (mean age 21.1+/-0.3 years) were tested for the sperm concentration, the proportion of mobile and morphologically normal spermatozoa in the ejaculate, blood serum levels of follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones, prolactin, testosterone, estradiol, inhibin B, triglycerides, total cholesterol, high and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, glucose and uric acid.

RESULTS

and conclusions The studied lifestyle factors were found to have no effects on spermatogenesis. Smoking more than 10 cigarettes per day and a moderate frequency of alcohol consumption (up to 1 time per week) was associated with higher blood serum testosterone levels and engaging in more frequent sexual contacts compared to non-smoking and non-drinking men. Drinking alcohol more than once a week and smoking more than 8 cigarettes per day was associated, along with the increase in testosterone levels and the frequency of sexual contacts, with lower levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and higher serum triglyceride levels. Thus, in young men, frequent drinking and smoking can alter the hormonal and metabolic balance, which, as the duration of the exposure and the strength of the factors increase, will increase the risk of reproductive disorders.

Structure and Gene Cluster of the K93 Capsular Polysaccharide of Acinetobacter baumannii B11911 Containing 5-N-Acetyl-7-N-[(R)-3-hydroxybutanoyl]pseudaminic Acid

Capsular polysaccharide (CPS) assigned to the K93 type was isolated from the bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii B11911 and studied by sugar analysis along with one- and two-dimensional ¹H and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy. The CPS was found to contain a derivative of pseudaminic acid, and the structure of the branched tetrasaccharide repeating unit was established. Genes in the KL93 capsule biosynthesis locus were annotated and found to be consistent with the CPS structure established. The K93 CPS has the α-d-Galp-(1→6)-β-d-Galp-(1→3)-d-GalpNAc trisaccharide fragment in common with the K14 CPS of Acinetobacter nosocomialis LUH 5541 and A. baumannii D46. It also shares the β-d-Galp-(1→3)-d-GalpNAc disaccharide fragment and the corresponding predicted Gal transferase Gtr5, as well as the initiating GalNAc-1-P transferase ItrA2, with a number of A. baumannii strains.

Effects of flavonol glycosides on liposome stability during freezing and drying

Flavonoids are a large and diverse group of plant secondary metabolites that are mainly present as glycosides. They are often accumulated in response to abiotic stresses such as UV radiation, drought, cold and freezing. The most extensively studied function of flavonoids is their antioxidant activity although their importance as antioxidants in plants has been questioned. We therefore aim to study effects of flavonols on cellular stress tolerance that are independent of their antioxidant function. Here we investigate the effects of the glycosylated flavonols kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, kaempferol-7-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside and quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside on liposome stability after freezing and drying. Insertion of flavonols in lipid bilayers destabilized egg phosphatidylcholine (EPC) liposomes and to a lesser extent vesicles made from equal proportions of EPC and egg phosphatidylethanolamine (EPE) during a freeze-thaw cycle, while liposomes containing the unsaturated non-bilayer lipid 18:2 PE were either unaffected or slightly stabilized. In general, the kaempferol derivatives were more destabilizing for liposomes during freezing than the quercetin derivatives. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that all flavonols were localized in the interfacial region of the lipid bilayers, forming H-bonds with the lipid phosphate and carbonyl groups. The phase transition temperature of dry 16:0/18:1 PC (POPC) and POPC/EPE liposomes was decreased by 75°C and 55°C, respectively. Changes in the vibration bands attributed to the phenolic ring structures of the flavonols in the presence of liposomes provided further evidence of interactions of these molecules in particular with the interfacial region of the bilayers.

Tomato plants acclimate better to elevated temperature and high light than to treatment with each factor separately

The influence of two factors - high temperature and high light intensity, acting separately or simultaneously on the pigment composition, fluorescent characteristics, membrane integrity and synthesis of protective substances was investigated in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum cv. M 82). Moderate elevated temperatures (38/29 °C) were applied under optimum or high light intensity for 2 and 6 days and after that the plants are allowed to recover for 5 days at optimum conditions. Parameters of chlorophyll fluorescence were used to evaluate the alterations of photosystem I and photosystem II activity and malondialdehyde content was determined as a measure of stress-induced peroxidation of membrane lipids. The response of treated plants to high light and elevated temperature was estimated by analyzing the accumulation of anthocyanins. Both stress factors exhibit different impact on studied parameters - high light intensity influences considerably quantum yield of photosystem II and photochemical quenching that is compensated to some extent when applied at elevated temperature. High temperature reduces strongly non-photochemical quenching. Data obtained show that after two days under particular conditions, the plants tend to acclimate, but this is achieved after longer treatment - 6 days. During the recovery period the activity of photosystem I and the quantum yield of photosystem II recover almost completely, while the values of non-photochemical quenching although slightly higher, did not reach the levels at the beginning of treatment.

The Lack of Lutein Accelerates the Extent of Light-induced Bleaching of Photosynthetic Pigments in Thylakoid Membranes of Arabidopsis thaliana

The high light-induced bleaching of photosynthetic pigments and the degradation of proteins of light-harvesting complexes of PSI and PSII were investigated in isolated thylakoid membranes of Arabidopsis thaliana, wt and lutein-deficient mutant lut2, with the aim of unraveling the role of lutein for the degree of bleaching and degradation. By the means of absorption spectroscopy and western blot analysis, we show that the lack of lutein leads to a higher extent of pigment photobleaching and protein degradation in mutant thylakoid membranes in comparison with wt. The highest extent of bleaching is suffered by chlorophyll a and carotenoids, while chlorophyll b is bleached in lut2 thylakoids during long periods at high illumination. The high light-induced degradation of Lhca1, Lhcb2 proteins and PsbS was followed and it is shown that Lhca1 is more damaged than Lhcb2. The degradation of analyzed proteins is more pronounced in lut2 mutant thylakoid membranes. The lack of lutein influences the high light-induced alterations in organization of pigment-protein complexes as revealed by 77 K fluorescence.

[EMG functional changes in masticatory muscles by elastopositioner use in patients with TMJ dysfunction]

The analysis of the results of EMG studies in patients with TMJ dysfunction was carried out before and after use of elastpositioner "Corrector". The study revealed significant functional disturbances of the masticatory muscles, which were corrected after applying elastpositioner: there was a trend to decreased activity of masseter and temporal muscles, especially in the stagе of rest.

A small-scale experiment of using phage-based probiotic dietary supplement for prevention of E. coli traveler's diarrhea

Traveler's diarrhea (TD) is caused by Escherichia coli in 30% of cases. We have developed a phage cocktail for prophylaxis of TD caused by E.coli, Shigella flexneri, Shigella sonnei, Salmonella enterica, Listeria monocytogenes or Staphylococcus aureus, and investigated its effectiveness against infection caused by the non-pathogenic Lac (-) strain of E.coli K12 C600 in animal and human trials. On the 6th day of both animal and human trials E. coli K12 C600 strain was detected in titer of 10⁴ CFU/g of mice feces and 10⁶ CFU/g of human feces in the control (untreated) groups, while it was not detected in the samples of either of the study (phage-treated) groups. These results have great significance because the original coliphages included in the cocktail have a broad host-range including ETEC, EAEC and EHEC strains which cause severe cases of TD.

The intrinsically disordered protein LEA7 from Arabidopsis thaliana protects the isolated enzyme lactate dehydrogenase and enzymes in a soluble leaf proteome during freezing and drying

The accumulation of Late Embryogenesis Abundant (LEA) proteins in plants is associated with tolerance against stresses such as freezing and desiccation. Two main functions have been attributed to LEA proteins: membrane stabilization and enzyme protection. We have hypothesized previously that LEA7 from Arabidopsis thaliana may stabilize membranes because it interacts with liposomes in the dry state. Here we show that LEA7, contrary to this expectation, did not stabilize liposomes during drying and rehydration. Instead, it partially preserved the activity of the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) during drying and freezing. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed no evidence of aggregation of LDH in the dry or rehydrated state under conditions that lead to complete loss of activity. To approximate the complex influence of intracellular conditions on the protective effects of a LEA protein in a convenient in-vitro assay, we measured the activity of two Arabidopsis enzymes (glucose-6-P dehydrogenase and ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase) in total soluble leaf protein extract (Arabidopsis soluble proteome, ASP) after drying and rehydration or freezing and thawing. LEA7 partially preserved the activity of both enzymes under these conditions, suggesting its role as an enzyme protectant in vivo. Further FTIR analyses indicated the partial reversibility of protein aggregation in the dry ASP during rehydration. Similarly, aggregation in the dry ASP was strongly reduced by LEA7. In addition, mixtures of LEA7 with sucrose or verbascose reduced aggregation more than the single additives, presumably through the effects of the protein on the H-bonding network of the sugar glasses.

[Early orthodontic treatment of children with dentofacial anomalies in the mixed dentition with the use of fixed appliances]

The article summarizes the authors experience in the treatment of patients with dentofacial anomalies in mixed dentition with fixed orthodontic appliances ("system 2×4") and combined treatment type with the use of extraoral device. Indications and contraindications, advantages and disadvantages, special conditions of the treatment, the mechanism of a face-bow action with extraoral traction, the sequence of events during the treatment are described in the article. Clinical cases of early treatment with "system 2×4" and in combination with the face-bow and extraoral traction demonstrate the effectiveness of the methods.

[The effect of orthodontic treatment on the change of oropharynx features in patients with dentoalveolar anomalies and nasopharyngeal tonsil hypertrophy]

The paper presents the results of comprehensive survey and orthodontic treatment of 40 children with dentoalveolar anomalies and nasopharyngeal tonsil hypertrophy aged 7-9 years. The linear parameters obtained by cone beam CT and TWH in the lateral projection were analyzed. The study revealed changes, indicating that the presence of nasopharyngeal tonsil hypertrophy, leads to pathology of the dental system and estimated the efficiency of muscle training and combined use of functional devices and elastopositioner «Corrector» for the treatment of anomalies of dentition and the formation of physiological occlusion in the process of permanent teeth eruption.

[Use of elastopositioner for treatment of masticator muscles discoordination in patients with TMJ dysfunction]

The paper presents the analysis of functional changes in patients with TMJ-dysfunction before and after the use of elastopositioner. Analysis has shown that at the initial stages the device provide relief from pain and masticatory muscles hypertension, reduced the bioelectric activity of the muscles. Normalization of the lower jaw movements when opening and closing the mouth and reduction of noise events in TMJ were also noted.

[The role of occlusal disorders in development of temporomandibular joint dysfunction]

Currently Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction is a very highly discussed topic by both researchers and clinicians. the incidence of the of TMJ is dysfunctions still not very well established because of heterogeneity of the diagnostic criteria used by different authors. This article is dedicated to the analysis of basic theories of the etiology of the aforementioned pathology, including overview of main pathophysiological mechanisms of the TMJ, dysfunctions occlusive disorders in particular. The main problem being analyzed is the use and efficacy of the electronic axiography in successful diagnostic and therapy of the TMJ dysfunction.

[Effect of mouth breathing on the severity of morphological and functional changes of dental system in patients with otolaryngologic pathology]

The study included 282 patients aged 5 to 14 years with pathology of the pharyngeal tonsil. Diagnostic algorithm is presented. The study results allowed elaboration of complex rehabilitation of nasal breathing and miodynamic equilibrium in the maxillofacial region by means of elastopositioner.

Interactions of the amphiphiles arbutin and tryptophan with phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine bilayers in the dry state

BACKGROUND

Water is essential for life, but some organisms can survive complete desiccation, while many more survive partial dehydration during drying or freezing. The function of some protective molecules, such as sugars, has been extensively studied, but much less is known about the effects of amphiphiles such as flavonoids and other aromatic compounds. Amphiphiles may be largely soluble under fully hydrated conditions, but will partition into membranes upon removal of water. Little is known about the effects of amphiphiles on membrane stability and how amphiphile structure and function are related. Here, we have used two of the most intensively studied amphiphiles, tryptophan (Trp) and arbutin (Arb), along with their isolated hydrophilic moieties glycine (Gly) and glucose (Glc) to better understand structure-function relationships in amphiphile-membrane interactions in the dry state.

RESULTS

Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to measure gel-to-liquid crystalline phase transition temperatures (Tm) of liposomes formed from phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine in the presence of the different additives. In anhydrous samples, both Glc and Arb strongly depressed Tm, independent of lipid composition, while Gly had no measurable effect. Trp, on the other hand, either depressed or increased Tm, depending on lipid composition. We found no evidence for strong interactions of any of the compounds with the lipid carbonyl or choline groups, while all additives except Gly seemed to interact with the phosphate groups. In the case of Arb and Glc, this also had a strong effect on the sugar OH vibrations in the FTIR spectra. In addition, vibrations from the hydrophobic indole and phenol moieties of Trp and Arb, respectively, provided evidence for interactions with the lipid bilayers.

CONCLUSIONS

The two amphiphiles Arb and Trp interact differently with dry bilayers. The interactions of Arb are dominated by contributions of the Glc moiety, while the indole governs the effects of Trp. In addition, only Trp-membrane interactions showed a strong influence of lipid composition. Further investigations, using the large structural diversity of plant amphiphiles will help to understand how their structure determines the interaction with membranes and how that influences their biological functions, for example under freezing or dehydration conditions.

[Adaptive dentoalveolar changes by insufficient sizes of the jaws]

The study is based on analysis of 1800 CT scans performed in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment in Samara dental clinic "Orthodont" from 2007 to 2012. Various adaptive dentoalveolar changes by insufficient sizes of the jaws were identified and classified in 4 groups: (1) adaptation of teeth position associated with jaw size insufficiency; (2) adaptation of alveolar bone associated with jaw size insufficiency; (3) adaptation of teeth position associated with muscle balance; (4) adaptation of teeth associated with space deficiency by their development. Hence adaptive changes involve all dentoalveolar structures influencing orthodontic treatment planning. Some of the changes may not be corrected.

[Specific clinical and functional features in the patients presenting with neurologic manifestations of deforming dorsopathies and concomitant osteoarthrosis]

The present study has revealed some specific clinical and functional features in the patients presenting with neurologic manifestations of deforming dorsopathies and concomitant osteoarthrosis. The negative influence of the latter condition on the pain intensity, microcirculation, and duration of the exacerbation of neurologic syndrome has been demonstrated based on the analysis of correlational relationships between the severity of referred projectional nerve root pain and articular pain syndrome. Special emphasis is laid on the interrelation between the duration of pain syndrome and characteristics of microcirculation.

[Molecular characterization of the multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii strains and assessment of their sensitivity to the phage AP22]

The molecular analysis of 130 multidrug-resistant nosocomial Acinetobacter baumannii strains was performed. The strains were obtained from patients admitted to different Russian hospitals (Chelyabinsk, Moscow, Nizhni Novgorod, and St. Petersburg) in 2005-2010. Species identification was performed using the amplified 16S rRNA gene restriction analysis and by determining intrinsic for A. baumannii blaQXA-51-like genes using PCR. The genetic typing of the strains was performed by RAPD-PCR. All strains fell into two clusters: A and B with dominant RAPD-groups A1 and B1, respectively, including 82% (107 of 130) of all studied strains. The susceptibility to the bacteriophage AP22 of the strains was determined. The phage was found to infect specifically and to constitute 69% of 130 strains and 82% (88 of 107) of the A. baumannii strains from the dominant RAPD groups. The ability of the bacteriophage AP22 to constitute a broad range of the clinically relevant A. baumannii strains makes it an attractive candidate for designing the phage cocktails intended to control the A. baumannii-associated nosocomial infections. Moreover, the phage can be used for the identification of A. baumannii in bacteriological analysis of clinical materials.

Influence of drying on the secondary structure of intrinsically disordered and globular proteins

Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy of five Arabidopsis late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins constituting the plant specific families LEA_5 and LEA_6 showed that they are intrinsically disordered in solution and partially fold during drying. Structural predictions were comparable to these results for hydrated LEA_6, but not for LEA_5 proteins. FTIR spectroscopy showed that verbascose, but not sucrose, strongly affected the structure of the dry proteins. The four investigated globular proteins were only mildly affected by drying in the absence, but strongly in the presence of sugars. These data highlight the larger structural flexibility of disordered compared to globular proteins and the impact of sugars on the structure of both disordered and globular proteins during drying.

Thermotropic phase behavior and headgroup interactions of the nonbilayer lipids phosphatidylethanolamine and monogalactosyldiacylglycerol in the dry state

BACKGROUND

Although biological membranes are organized as lipid bilayers, they contain a substantial fraction of lipids that have a strong tendency to adopt a nonlamellar, most often inverted hexagonal (HII) phase. The polymorphic phase behavior of such nonbilayer lipids has been studied previously with a variety of methods in the fully hydrated state or at different degrees of dehydration. Here, we present a study of the thermotropic phase behavior of the nonbilayer lipids egg phosphatidylethanolamine (EPE) and monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) with a focus on interactions between the lipid molecules in the interfacial and headgroup regions.

RESULTS

Liposomes were investigated in the dry state by Fourier-transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Dry EPE showed a gel to liquid-crystalline phase transition below 0°C and a liquid-crystalline to HII transition at 100°C. MGDG, on the other hand, was in the liquid-crystalline phase down to -30°C and showed a nonbilayer transition at about 85°C. Mixtures (1:1 by mass) with two different phosphatidylcholines (PC) formed bilayers with no evidence for nonbilayer transitions up to 120°C. FTIR spectroscopy revealed complex interactions between the nonbilayer lipids and PC. Strong H-bonding interactions occurred between the sugar headgroup of MGDG and the phosphate, carbonyl and choline groups of PC. Similarly, the ethanolamine moiety of EPE was H-bonded to the carbonyl and choline groups of PC and probably interacted through charge pairing with the phosphate group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a comprehensive characterization of dry membranes containing the two most important nonbilayer lipids (PE and MGDG) in living cells. These data will be of particular relevance for the analysis of interactions between membranes and low molecular weight solutes or soluble proteins that are presumably involved in cellular protection during anhydrobiosis.

Structural transitions in the intrinsically disordered plant dehydration stress protein LEA7 upon drying are modulated by the presence of membranes

Dehydration stress-related late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins have been found in plants, invertebrates and bacteria. Most LEA proteins are unstructured in solution, but some fold into amphipathic α-helices during drying. The Pfam LEA_4 (Group 3) protein LEA7 from the higher plant Arabidopsis thaliana was predicted to be 87% α-helical, while CD spectroscopy showed it to be largely unstructured in solution and only 35% α-helical in the dry state. However, the dry protein contained 15% β-sheets. FTIR spectroscopy revealed the β-sheets to be largely due to aggregation. β-Sheet content was reduced and α-helix content increased when LEA7 was dried in the presence of liposomes with secondary structure apparently influenced by lipid composition. Secondary structure was also affected by the presence of membranes in the fully hydrated state. A temperature-induced increase in the flexibility of the dry protein was also only observed in the presence of membranes. Functional interactions of LEA7 with membranes in the dry state were indicated by its influence on the thermotropic phase transitions of the lipids and interactions with the lipid headgroup phosphates.

[Combined physiotherapy of patients with dorsopathies and concomitant osteoarthrosis]

The combined treatment of patients presenting with dorsopathies and concomitant osteoarthrosis using magnetic stimulation, ultrasonic and peloidotherapy was shown to promote the recovery of the locomotor function of the vertebral column and the affected limb joints, alleviate pain sensation, and exert anti-inflammatory effect. Moreover, it contributed to the improvement of the overall orthopedic situation in the region. The inclusion of vibrotraction in the combined treatment of patients presenting with dorsopathies and concomitant osteoarthrosis resulted in a marked decrease of the severity of static and dynamic disturbances of the spine, increase in the activity of spinal muscles, extension of the range of locomotor movements, and improvement of working ability of the patients.

Interaction of two intrinsically disordered plant stress proteins (COR15A and COR15B) with lipid membranes in the dry state

COR15A and COR15B form a tandem repeat of highly homologous genes in Arabidopsis thaliana. Both genes are highly cold induced and the encoded proteins belong to the Pfam LEA_4 group (group 3) of the late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins. Both proteins were predicted to be intrinsically disordered in solution. Only COR15A has previously been characterized and it was shown to be localized in the soluble stroma fraction of chloroplasts. Ectopic expression of COR15A in Arabidopsis resulted in increased freezing tolerance of both chloroplasts after freezing and thawing of intact leaves and of isolated protoplasts frozen and thawed in vitro. In the present study we have generated recombinant mature COR15A and COR15B for a comparative study of their structure and possible function as membrane protectants. CD spectroscopy showed that both proteins are predominantly unstructured in solution and mainly alpha-helical after drying. Both proteins showed similar effects on the thermotropic phase behavior of dry liposomes. A decrease in the gel to liquid-crystalline phase transition temperature depended on both the unsaturation of the fatty acyl chains and lipid headgroup structure. FTIR spectroscopy indicated no strong interactions between the proteins and the lipid phosphate and carbonyl groups, but significant interactions with the galactose headgroup of the chloroplast lipid monogalactosyldiacylglycerol. These findings were rationalized by modeling the secondary structure of COR15A and COR15B. Helical wheel projection indicated the presence of amphipathic alpha-helices in both proteins. The helices lacked a clear separation of positive and negative charges on the hydrophilic face, but contained several hydroxylated amino acids.

[Biodegradable polymer microparticles with entraped herbal extracts: preparation with supercritical carbon dioxide and use for tissue repair]

Biodegradable microparticles based on poly-D,L-lactide with entrapped mixture of herbal water-soluble extracts of Plantago major and Calendula officinalis were prepared. For preparation of these microparticles the previously developed method based on the usage of supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) was proposed. Microparticles were obtained by two techniques: 1) by preparing porous polymer monolith containing entrapped mixture of herbal extracts, which was then reduced to fine microparticles (ca. 0.1 mm) by dry ice grinding (called here as "monolithisation technique") and 2) by spraying of this polymer/extracts mixture through a jet (spray technique). In vitro release kinetic profile of herbal extract mixture was found to depend on the microparticle preparation technique, on the microparticle structure as well as on the initial ratio polymer/extracts (w/w). The microparticles were used for gastric ulcer treatment in a rat model. The extracts released from microparticles were found to accelerate tissue repair.

Functional divergence of former alleles in an ancient asexual invertebrate

Theory suggests it should be difficult for asexual organisms to adapt to a changing environment because genetic diversity can only arise from mutations accumulating within direct antecedents and not through sexual exchange. In an asexual microinvertebrate, the bdelloid rotifer, we have observed a mechanism by which such organisms could acquire the diversity needed for adaptation. Gene copies most likely representing former alleles have diverged in function so that the proteins they encode play complementary roles in survival of dry conditions. One protein prevents desiccation-sensitive enzymes from aggregating during drying, whereas its counterpart does not have this activity, but is able to associate with phospholipid bilayers and is potentially involved in maintenance of membrane integrity. The functional divergence of former alleles observed here suggests that adoption of asexual reproduction could itself be an evolutionary mechanism for the generation of diversity.

Effects of cholesterol on dry bilayers: interactions between phosphatidylcholine unsaturation and glycolipid or free sugar

Cholesterol and other sterols are important components of biological membranes and are known to strongly influence the physical characteristics of lipid bilayers. Although this has been studied extensively in fully hydrated membranes, little is known about the effects of cholesterol on the stability of membranes in the dry state. Here, we present a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study on the effects of cholesterol on the phase behavior of dry liposomes composed of phosphatidylcholines with different degrees of fatty acid unsaturation or of mixtures of phosphatidylcholine with a plant galactolipid. In addition, we have analyzed the H-bonding of cholesterol, galactose, and a combination of the two additives to the P=O and C=O groups in dry phosphatidylcholine bilayers. The data indicate a complex balance of interactions between the different components in the dry state and a strong influence of fatty acid unsaturation on the interactions of the diacyl lipids with both cholesterol and galactose.