Chemical Composition and Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities of Extracts from Cultivated Morel Mushrooms, Species of Genus Morchella (Ascomycota)

Species of genus Morchella are high-value edible mushrooms. They are sought after by culinary experts due to their aroma, flavor, meaty texture, and health benefits. M. rufobrunnea, M. sextelata, and M. americana were chosen in this study and investigated for their medicinal quality by using in vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant assays. This sampling represents conditions by which morels are produced (cultivated indoors, cultivated outdoors, and collected from natural habitats, respectively) for commercial markets. Both aqueous and methanolic extracts of all three morel species showed identical chromatographic and bioassay profiles, independent of their phylogenetic position or production method. In an antioxidant assay, aqueous and methanolic extracts of these mushrooms at 100 μg/mL inhibited lipid peroxidation (LPO) by 59%-62% and 33%-36%, respectively. In an anti-inflammatory assay using cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), aqueous and methanolic extracts at 100 μg/mL showed COX-1 enzyme inhibition by 53%-57% and 30%-32% and COX-2 enzyme inhibition by 38%-44% and 16%-17%, respectively. Chromatographic purification and spectroscopic characterization of M. rufobrunnea extracts afforded five sugars (compounds 1-5), seven organic acids (compounds 6-13), three flavonoids (compounds 14-16), triglycerides, free fatty acids, and three sterols (compounds 17-19). This is the first report of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes and LPO inhibitory activities of pure isolates (S)-morelid (compound 6), glutamic acid (compound 9), and brassicasterol (compound 19). This study also showed inhibitions of COX-1 (by 84%, 33%, and 37%), COX-2 (by 47%, 11%, and 22%), and LPO (by 74%, 48%, and 35%), respectively, at 25 μg/mL.

Mercury speciation, bioavailability, and biomagnification in contaminated streams on the Savannah River Site (SC, USA)

Water, sediment, and biota from two streams on the Savannah River Site were sampled to study mercury (Hg) biogeochemistry. Total and methyl- Hg (MHg) concentrations were measured for all samples, speciation models were used to explore Hg speciation in the water, and Diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) were applied to indicate the vertical profiles of labile Hg (DGT-Hg). Trophic position (δ¹⁵N) was estimated for biota and used to establish MHg biomagnification model. The speciation model indicated Hg methylation in the water occurred on settling particles and the most bioavailable Hg species to bacteria were complexes of inorganic Hg and labile organic ligands. Correspondingly, dissolved organic carbon concentrations were positively related to MHg concentrations in the water. In the sediment, the sharp increase of DGT-Hg around the sediment water interface underscores the importance of this interface, which determines the differences in the accumulation and generation of labile Hg among different waterbodies. The positive correlation between sediment MHg and sulfate concentrations suggested possible methylation reaction by dissimilatory sulfate reducing bacteria in the sediment. The food web magnification factors of MHg were 9.6 (95% CI: 4.0-23.4) and 4.4 (95% CI: 2.5-7.7) for the two streams established with trophic data of biofilm, invertebrates, and fish. Meanwhile, DGT-Hg concentrations in the water were positively correlated to biofilm Hg concentrations, which can be combined with the MHg biomagnification model to generate a modified biomagnification model that estimate MHg bioaccumulation with only labile Hg concentrations in the water. With this approach, Hg accumulation in abiotic and biotic environmental compartments was connected and the different bioaccumulation patterns of Hg in different waterbodies were explained with both geochemical and biological factors.

Evaluation of the DGT technique for predicting uptake of metal mixtures by fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) and yellow lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa)

Diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) were assessed for their predictive capability of fathead minnow and yellow lampmussel bioaccumulation in copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) mixed metal exposures. Nine treatments with a matrix of 3 Cu and 3 Pb concentrations were utilized. Exposures were coupled, with organisms and DGT exposed in tanks for 6 days. The Cu measured in fish, mussel, and DGT was found not to be influenced by Pb treatment, whereas Pb accumulation was impacted by the interaction of Cu and Pb treatment. The Pb accumulation increased with increasing Cu concentration, which was attributed to the different speciation of Cu and Pb in the water where Cu binds preferentially to ligands, decreasing its bioavailability and concomitantly displacing Pb from complexing sites. The DGT values were significantly correlated with accumulated Cu and Pb in the fish, but not with Pb in the mussel. In addition, DGT was determined to better predict aquatic organism bioaccumulation of Cu than the inorganic Cu fraction calculated by the speciation model, because DGT accumulated not only inorganic metal fractions but also complexes of metal and organic matter. The present study provides insights into metal speciation in polluted environments, extends the understanding of using DGT as a tool for estimating metal bioavailability, and provides implications for the selection of geochemical modeling, biological sampling, and passive sampling techniques for monitoring trace metal contamination. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:61-70. © 2018 SETAC.

Impact of natural organic matter and increased water hardness on DGT prediction of copper bioaccumulation by yellow lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa) and fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)

We conducted an exposure experiment with Diffusive Gradients in Thin- Films (DGT), fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), and yellow lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa) to estimate bioavailability and bioaccumulation of Cu. We hypothesized that Cu concentrations measured by DGT can be used to predict Cu accumulation in aquatic animals and alterations of water chemistry can affect DGT's predict ability. Three water chemistries (control soft water, hard water, and addition of natural organic matter (NOM)) and three Cu concentrations (0, 30, and 60 μg/L) were selected, so nine Cu-water chemistry combinations were used. NOM addition treatments resulted in decreased concentrations of DGT-measured Cu and free Cu ion predicted by Biotic Ligand Model (BLM). Both hard water and NOM addition treatments had reduced concentrations of Cu ion and Cu-dissolved organic matter complexes compared to other treatments. DGT-measured Cu concentrations were linearly correlated to fish accumulated Cu, but not to mussel accumulated Cu. Concentrations of bioavailable Cu predicted by BLM, the species complexed with biotic ligands of aquatic organisms and, was highly correlated to DGT-measured Cu. In general, DGT-measured Cu fit Cu accumulations in fish, and this passive sampling technique is acceptable at predicting Cu concentrations in fish in waters with low NOM concentrations.

Do constructed wetlands remove metals or increase metal bioavailability?

The H-02 wetland was constructed to treat building process water and storm runoff water from the Tritium Processing Facility on the Department of Energy's Savannah River Site (Aiken, SC). Monthly monitoring of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) concentrations and water quality parameters in surface waters continued from 2014 to 2016. Metal speciation was modeled at each sampling occasion. Total Cu and Zn concentrations released to the effluent stream were below the NPDES limit, and the average removal efficiency was 65.9% for Cu and 71.1% for Zn. The metal-removal processes were found out to be seasonally regulated by sulfur cycling indicated by laboratory and model results. High temperature, adequate labile organic matter, and anaerobic conditions during the warm months (February to August) favored sulfate reduction that produced sulfide minerals to significantly remove metals. However, the dominant reaction in sulfur cycling shifted to sulfide oxidation during the cool months (September to next March). High concentrations of metal-organic complexes were observed, especially colloidal complexes of metal and fulvic acid (FA), demonstrating adsorption to organic matter became the primary process for metal removal. Meanwhile, the accumulation of metal-FA complexes in the wetland system will cause negative effects to the surrounding environment as they are biologically reactive, highly bioavailable, and can be easily taken up and transferred to ecosystems by trophic exchange.

Evaluation of diffusive gradients in thin films for prediction of copper bioaccumulation by yellow lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa) and fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)

Using a coupled method of diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) exposure with aquatic organism bioassays, we assessed the use of DGT as a tool for estimating copper (Cu) bioavailability in contaminated waters. The DGT-accumulated Cu fraction could possibly be used as a surrogate for other assessments of metal bioavailability. The Cu concentrations in fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) and yellow lampmussel (Lampsilis cariosa) soft tissue were compared with DGT-accumulated Cu after 2, 4, and 6 d of exposure to a Cu concentration series in static, water-only assays. The DGT-accumulated Cu was found to include free Cu ions, labile inorganic Cu complexes, and labile dissolved organic matter Cu complexes, compared with Cu speciation output from the biotic ligand model. Regressions of Cu concentrations between DGT and fathead minnow at 4 and 6 d of exposure demonstrated linear relationships. The Cu bioaccumulated in yellow lampmussel was overpredicted by DGT at Cu concentrations greater than 10 µg L^-1 , which may be caused by internal regulation of Cu. The speciation component of the biotic ligand model predicted relationships between inorganic Cu and animal-accumulated Cu that were similar to predicted relationships between DGT-indicated Cu and animal-accumulated Cu at all deployment durations. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1535-1544. © 2018 SETAC.

Exposure to mercury and Aroclor 1268 congeners in least terns (Sternula antillarum) in coastal Georgia, USA

Concentrations of total mercury and the rare PCB mixture Aroclor 1268 in least terns (Sternula antillarum), a colonially-nesting, piscivorous seabird, in the Turtle River estuary and other coastal sites in Georgia, USA, were investigated. The Turtle River estuary is the location of the Linden Chemical Plant (LCP) Superfund site, a site prioritized by USA law for immediate remediation, where industries released effluent containing these contaminants until 1994. Aroclor 1268 is a highly-chlorinated PCB mixture that was used and released exclusively at the LCP site and nowhere else in the south eastern USA. High concentrations of Aroclor 1268 congeners and mercury have been documented in biota local to LCP, but no studies report concentrations in high trophic level, piscivorous birds such as least terns. We collected feathers and feces from chicks, and eggs from adults, at nesting colonies along the Georgia coast to analyze contaminant loads (in dry weight ppb). Mean Aroclor 1268 mixture concentrations in eggs (≤16,329 ppb) were highest at colonies in and just outside LCP, and decreased with increasing distance (up to 110 km) from LCP, but the Aroclor 1268 signature congener mixture was present at all sites. Mercury concentrations in eggs (≤3370 ppb), feathers (≤5950 ppb), and feces (≤417 ppb), were present at all sites, but did not vary significantly among sites. This report confirms the extensive dispersal of Aroclor 1268 congeners (approximately 110 km north and 70 km south of its point source) via bioaccumulation and trophic transfer.

Precipitation influences on uptake of a global pollutant by a coastal avian species

Climatic variation, including precipitation amounts and timing, has been linked to abundance and breeding success of many avian species. Less studied, but also of significance, is the consequence of climatic variability on the exposure and uptake of nutrients and contaminants by wildlife. The authors examined mercury (Hg) concentrations in nestling wood stork feathers in a coastal setting over a 16-yr period to understand the influence of rainfall amounts on Hg transfer by parental provisioning relative to habitat use, assuming differential bioavailability of Hg within freshwater and saltwater habitat types. Coastal Hg uptake by stork nestlings was linked to freshwater habitat use, as indicated by stable carbon isotope (δ(13)C) analyses. Cumulative rainfall amounts exceeding 220 cm in the 23 mo preceding the breeding seasons resulted in greater use of freshwater wetlands as foraging habitat and greater Hg accumulation by nestling storks.

Variation in trace-element accumulation in predatory fishes from a stream contaminated by coal combustion waste

Extensive and critical evaluation can be required to assess contaminant bioaccumulation in large predatory fishes. Species differences in habitat use, resource use, and trophic level, often influenced by body form, can result in diverging contaminant bioaccumulation patterns. Moreover, the broad size ranges inherent with large-bodied fish provide opportunity for trophic and habitat shifts within species that can further influence contaminant exposure. We compared contaminant bioaccumulation in four fish species, as well as two herbivorous invertebrates, from a coal combustion waste contaminated stream. Muscle, liver, and gonad tissue were analyzed from fish stratified across the broadest size ranges available. Effects of trophic position (δ (15)N), carbon sources (δ (13)C), and body size varied among and within species. Mercury and cesium concentrations were lowest in the invertebrates and increased with trophic level both among and within fish species. Other elements, such as vanadium, cadmium, barium, nickel, and lead, had greater levels in herbivorous invertebrates than in fish muscle. Sequestration by the fish livers averted accumulation in muscle. Consequently, fish liver tissue appeared to be a more sensitive indicator of bioavailability, but exceptions existed. Despite liver sequestration, within fishes, muscle concentrations of many elements still tended to increase by trophic level. Notable variation within some species was observed. These results illustrate the utility of stable isotope data in exploring differences of bioaccumulation within taxa. Our analyses suggest a need for further evaluation of the underlying sources of this variability to better understand contaminant bioaccumulation in large predatory fishes.

Spatial and taxonomic variation in trace element bioaccumulation in two herbivores from a coal combustion waste contaminated stream

Dissimilarities in habitat use, feeding habits, life histories, and physiology can result in syntopic aquatic taxa of similar trophic position bioaccumulating trace elements in vastly different patterns. We compared bioaccumulation in a clam, Corbicula fluminea and mayfly nymph Maccaffertium modestum from a coal combustion waste contaminated stream. Collection sites differed in distance to contaminant sources, incision, floodplain activity, and sources of flood event water and organic matter. Contaminants variably accumulated in both sediment and biofilm. Bioaccumulation differed between species and sites with C. fluminea accumulating higher concentrations of Hg, Cs, Sr, Se, As, Be, and Cu, but M. modestum higher Pb and V. Stable isotope analyses suggested both spatial and taxonomic differences in resource use with greater variability and overlap between species in the more physically disturbed site. The complex but essential interactions between organismal biology, divergence in resource use, and bioaccumulation as related to stream habitat requires further studies essential to understand impacts of metal pollution on stream systems.

Effects of chronic copper exposure on development and survival in the southern leopard frog (Lithobates [Rana] sphenocephalus)

Exposure to environmental contaminants contributes to the global decline of amphibian populations. The impacts of organic contaminants on amphibians are well documented. However, substantially less is known concerning the potential effects of metals on amphibian populations. Copper (Cu) is an essential element, but it can be toxic at concentrations only slightly higher than the normal physiological range. The present study examines the effects of chronic Cu exposure on embryos and larvae of southern leopard frogs, Lithobates (Rana) sphenocephalus. Groups of eggs from multiple clutches were collected from two wetlands and exposed to a range of Cu concentrations (0-150 µg/L) until they reached the free-swimming stage, and then individual larvae were reared to metamorphosis. Higher Cu concentrations significantly reduced embryo survival to the free-swimming stage but did not further reduce survival to metamorphosis. Larval period was affected by Cu treatment, but the clutch from which larvae originated (i.e., parentage) explained a higher proportion of the variation. Embryo survival to hatching varied significantly among clutches, ranging from 42.9 to 79.2%. Measurable levels of Cu were found in larvae with body burdens up to 595 µg Cu/g dry mass in the 100 µg/L treatment, and larval Cu body burdens were higher than in metamorphs. The present study also demonstrated that higher initial egg density ameliorated embryo mortality at higher Cu levels and should be accounted for in future studies.

Comparative geochemical and microbiological characterization of two thermal pools in the Uzon Caldera, Kamchatka, Russia

Arkashin Schurf (Arkashin) and Zavarzin Spring (Zavarzin), two active thermal pools in the Uzon Caldera, Kamchatka, Russia, were studied for geochemical and microbiological characterization. Arkashin, the smaller of the two pools, had broader temperature and pH ranges, and the sediments had higher concentrations of total As (4,250 mg/kg) relative to Zavarzin (48.9 mg/kg). Glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraether profiles represented distinct archaeal communities in each pool and agreed well with previous studies of these pools. Although no archaeal 16S rRNA sequences were recovered from Arkashin, sequences recovered from Zavarzin were mostly representatives of the Crenarchaeota and "Korarchaeota," and 13% of the sequences were unclassifiable. The bacterial community in Arkashin was dominated by uncultured "Bacteroidetes," Hydrogenobaculum of the Aquificales and Variovorax of the Betaproteobacteria, and 19% of the sequences remained unclassified. These results were consistent with other studies of As-rich features. The most abundant members of the Zavarzin bacterial community included the Chloroflexi, as well as members of the classes Deltaproteobacteria and Clostridia. In addition, 24% of the sequences were unclassified and at least 5% of those represent new groups among the established Bacterial phyla. Ecological structure in each pool was inferred from taxonomic classifications and bulk stable isotope δ values of C, N, and S. Hydrogenobaculum was responsible for primary production in Arkashin. However, in Zavarzin, the carbon source appeared to be allochthonous to the identified bacterial community members. Additionally, sequences related to organisms expected to participate in N and S cycles were identified from both pools.

Feathers as bioindicators of PCB exposure in clapper rails

In this study we used feathers to biomonitor exposure to the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) Aroclor 1268 congener mixture in clapper rails (Rallus longirostris). This species has been used as an indicator species of environmental damage for the LCP superfund site located in Brunswick, GA, USA which is contaminated with Aroclor 1268, a congener mixture that has been used in limited amounts elsewhere and therefore can be used as a contaminant marker. The Aroclor 1268 congener mixture, including congener profiles, were quantified in feathers using gas chromatography (GC). Concurrently, each sample was quantified for the total Aroclor 1268 congener mixture using an enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) and compared to the GC results to determine if ELISA was an efficient method for quantifying or qualifying PCBs in feathers. ELISA consistently quantified PCB loads over an order of magnitude lower than the GC. Based on sample replication, extraction recovery, and sample spike, it appears that GC is the more reliable method of detection and that ELISA methods may be more suitable for qualitative exposure assessment for this particular Aroclor. Moreover, since all clapper rails from the LCP site had the Aroclor 1268 congener mixture in their feathers, this experiment showed that birds were returning to the site to breed despite the adverse effects experienced by this population from the contamination revealed in previous studies. This study also supports the utility of feathers as a non-lethal mechanism by which to biomonitor PCBs in the environment.

Clapper rails as indicators of mercury and PCB bioavailability in a Georgia saltmarsh system

Clapper rails (Rallus longirostris) were used as an indicator species of estuarine marsh habitat quality because of their strong site fidelity and predictable diet consisting of mostly benthic organisms. Mercury (Hg) and the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) Aroclor 1268 concentrations were determined for sediments, crabs, as well as clapper rail adults and chicks collected from salt marshes associated with the LCP Superfund site in Brunswick, Georgia. Home ranges were established for adult rails, and sediment and crab samples were taken from each individual's range. The study was designed to minimize the spatial variability associated with trophic transfer studies by choosing an endpoint species with a potentially small home range and specifically sampling its foraging range. The mean home range for clapper rails was 1.2 ha with a median of 0.28 ha. Concentrations of Hg and Aroclor 1268 were shown to increase with each trophic level. Transfer factors between media followed the same pattern for both contaminants with the highest between fiddler crabs and clapper rail liver. Hg and PCB transfer factors were similar between sediment to fiddler crab and fiddler crab to muscle, however the PCB transfer factor from fiddler crabs to liver was over twice as large as for Hg. PCB congener profiles did not significantly differ between media types.

Gracilibacter thermotolerans gen. nov., sp. nov., an anaerobic, thermotolerant bacterium from a constructed wetland receiving acid sulfate water

An obligatorily anaerobic, thermotolerant, asporogenic bacterium, strain JW/YJL-S1T, was isolated from a sediment sample of a constructed wetland system receiving acid sulfate water (pH 1.6–3.0). Cells of strain JW/YJL-S1T were straight to curved rods 0.2–0.4 μm in diameter and 2.0–7.0 μm in length, and stained Gram-negative. Growth of strain JW/YJL-S1T was observed at 25–54 °C (no growth at or below 20 or at or above 58 °C), with an optimum temperature range for growth of 42.5–46.5 °C. The pH25 °C range for growth was 6.0–8.25 (no growth at or below pH 5.7 or at or above pH 8.5), with optimum growth at pH 6.8–7.75. The salinity range for growth was 0–1.5 % (w/v) NaCl, with an optimum at 0–0.5 %. During growth on glucose the isolate produced acetate, lactate and ethanol as main fermentation end products. The fatty acid composition was dominated by branched-chain compounds: i15 : 0, a15 : 0, i16 : 0 and i17 : 0. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 42.8 mol% (HPLC). Strain JW/YJL-S1T showed polymorphism of the 16S rRNA gene. Its closest relative was the thermophilic Clostridium thermosuccinogenes DSM 5807T (a member of Clostridium cluster III) (a blastn search revealed Clostridium pascui DSM 10365T to have 92.7 % gene sequence similarity, the highest value). The inferred phylogenetic trees placed strain JW/YJL-S1T between Clostridium clusters I/II and III. Based on the morphological and phylogenetic data presented, JW/YJL-S1T (=DSM 17427T=ATCC BAA-1219T) is proposed as the type strain of a novel species in a new genus, Gracilibacter thermotolerans gen. nov., sp. nov.

Thermosediminibacter oceani gen. nov., sp. nov. and Thermosediminibacter litoriperuensis sp. nov., new anaerobic thermophilic bacteria isolated from Peru Margin

A new group of anaerobic thermophilic bacteria was isolated from enrichment cultures obtained from deep sea sediments of Peru Margin collected during Leg 201 of the Ocean Drilling Program. A total of ten isolates were obtained from cores of 1-2 m below seafloor (mbsf) incubated at 60 degrees C: three isolates came from the sediment 426 m below sea level with a surface temperature of 9 degrees C (Site 1227), one from 252 m below sea level with a temperature of 12 degrees C (Site 1228), and six isolates under sulfate-reducing condition from the lower slope of the Peru Trench (Site 1230). Strain JW/IW-1228P from the Site 1228 and strain JW/YJL-1230-7/2 from the Site 1230 were chosen as representatives of the two identified clades. Based on the 16S rDNA sequence analysis, these isolates represent a novel group with Thermovenabulum and Caldanaerobacter as their closest relatives. The temperature range for growth was 52-76 degrees C with an optimum at around 68 degrees C for JW/IW-1228P and 43-76 degrees C with an optimum at around 64 degrees C for JW/YJL-1230-7/2. The pH(25C) range for growth was from 6.3 to 9.3 with an optimum at 7.5 for JW/IW-1228P and from 5 to 9.5 with an optimum at 7.9-8.4 for JW/YJL-1230-7/2. The salinity range for growth was from 0% to 6% (w/v) for JW/IW-1228P and from 0% to 4.5% (w/v) for JW/YJL-1230-7/2. The G+C [corrected] mol% of the genomic DNA was 46.3 +/- 0.7% (n = 4) for Thermosediminibacter oceani [corrected] JW/IW-1228PT [corrected] and 45.2 +/- 0.7 (n = 6) for Thermosediminibacter litoriperuensis [corrected] JW/YJL-1230-7/2T [corrected] DNA-DNA hybridization yielded 52% similarity between the two strains. According to 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, the isolates are located within the family, Thermoanaerobacteriaceae. Based on their morphological and physiological properties and phylogenetic analysis, it is proposed that strain JW/IW-1228P(T) is placed into a novel taxa, Thermosediminibacter oceani, gen. nov., sp. nov. (DSM 16646(T)=ATCC BAA-1034(T)), and JW/YJL-1230-7/2(T) into Thermosediminibacter litoriperuensis sp. nov. (DSM 16647(T) =ATCC BAA-1035(T)).

Lipid composition of suspended particulate matter (SPM) in a southeastern blackwater stream

Suspended particulate matter (SPM) was collected seasonally for 1 yr at third- and fifth-order sites in a blackwater stream on the coastal plain in South Carolina. Fatty acids with carbon chain lengths from C(12)-C(32) were the most abundant component among the lipid classes examined with total concentrations varying from 8.5 to 60.2 microgL(-1). Unsaturated fatty acids predominated while significant concentrations of the even-chained saturated components C(24)-C(30) derived from cuticular plant waxes were also found. Concentrations of aliphatic alcohols, with carbon chain lengths between C(16) and C(30), ranged from 0.52 to 2.73 microgL(-1) and was dominated by the higher molecular weight compounds (C(22)-C(30)) derived primarily from cuticular plant waxes. Total hydrocarbon concentrations ranged from 0.35 to 5.66 microgL(-1) and showed no discernible trends with time or consistent difference between sites. The hydrocarbon assemblage observed indicates that these components are entirely of biogenic origin with no detectable anthropogenic contribution. The ratios of unsaturated to saturated fatty acids and cuticular to noncuticular fatty acids and alcohols at both stream locations indicate that the organic detritus associated with SPM collected during November and January is of more recent origin and less processed than that collected in the spring and summer months. Lipid concentrations at the third-order site generally had higher and more variable concentrations of the lipid classes compared with the fifth-order site. The ratio of saturated to unsaturated fatty acids was higher at the third-order site indicating that the organic fraction of SPM at this site was of more recent origin and less decomposed. The ratios of cuticular to noncuticular fatty acids and alcohols support this conclusion. These results indicate an export of particulate lipids of higher carbon resource quality from upstream to lower stream reaches.

Cyclooxygenase inhibitory and antioxidant compounds from the fruiting body of an edible mushroom, Agrocybe aegerita

In the search for bioactive natural products from edible mushrooms, we have investigated the fruiting body of Agrocybe aegerita. The methanol extract of this mushroom yielded a fatty acid fraction (FAF), along with palmitic acid (1), ergosterol (2), 5,8-epidioxy-ergosta-6,22-dien-3beta-ol (3), mannitol (4) and trehalose (5). The composition of FAF was confirmed by GC-MS and by comparison to the retention values of authentic samples of palmitic, stearic, oleic and linoleic acids. The structures of 1-5 were established using spectroscopic methods. FAF and compounds 1-3 showed cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme inhibitory and antioxidant activities. The inhibition values of liposome peroxidation by FAF, compounds 1 and 2 at 100 microg/ml were 75, 45, and 43%, respectively. The inhibition values of COX-I enzyme by FAF and 1-3 at 100 microg/ml were 80, 39, 19, and 57%, respectively. Similarly, COX-II enzyme activity was reduced by FAF and 1-3 at 100 microg/ml with values of 88, 45, 28, and 22%, respectively. Compounds 1, 3 and fatty acids were isolated here for the first time from the fruiting body of A. aegerita.

Cyclooxygenase inhibitory and antioxidant compounds from the mycelia of the edible mushroom Grifola frondosa

The bioassay-guided isolation and purification of the hexane extract of the cultured mycelia of Grifola frondosa led to the characterization of a fatty acid fraction and three compounds, ergosterol (1), ergostra-4,6,8(14),22-tetraen-3-one (2), and 1-oleoyl-2-linoleoyl-3-palmitoylglycerol (3). The composition of fatty acid fraction was confirmed as palmitic, oleic, and linoleic acids by GC-MS and by comparison with the retention values of authentic samples. The structures of compounds 1-3 were established by spectroscopic methods. The fatty acid fraction and compounds 1-3 showed cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme inhibitory and antioxidant activities. The inhibition of COX-1 enzyme by the fatty acid fraction and compounds 1-3 at 250 microg/mL were 98, 37, 55, and 67%, respectively. Similarly, COX-2 enzyme activity was reduced by fatty acid fraction and compounds 1-3 at 250 microg/mL by 99, 37, 70, and 4%, respectively. The inhibitions of liposome peroxidation by the fatty acid fraction and compounds 1 and 2 at 100 microg/mL were 79, 48, and 42%, respectively. This is the first report of compounds 2 and 3 from the cultured mycelia of G. frondosa. The COX inhibitory activities of compounds 1-3 are reported here for the first time.

Abiotic transformation of perchloroethylene in homogeneous dithionite solution and in suspensions of dithionite-treated clay minerals

The reductive dechlorination of perchloroethylene (PCE) in homogeneous solutions of dithionite and at the surfaces of dithionite-citrate-bicarbonate (DCB) treated ferruginous smectite and Na-montmorillonite was studied. Transformation products of PCE identified in dosed dithionite-treated samples included TCE, DCE, 1,1,2-trichloroethane (TCA), 1,1-dichloroethane (DCA), chloroacetylene, acetylene, ethene, and ethane. The decomposition of dithionite to sulfate yielded both protons and electrons necessary for hydrodechlorination (hydrogenolysis) of PCE. Dithionite treatment of the Fe-poor Na-montmorillonite enhanced reductive dechlorination of PCE relative to dithionite-treated Fe-rich ferruginous smectite, within the range of 11.5-137.8 mM dithionite. For the same dithionite concentration, the kinetics of the heterogeneous reactions of PCE was generally faster than that of the homogeneous reaction, and higher concentrations of TCE were measured in the heterogeneous reactions. Interestingly, increases in the mass of the clay minerals used, the Fe2+ content in the clay mineral structure, or the dithionite concentration used did not necessarily enhance the abiotic transformation of PCE, as would otherwise be predicted. The most efficient reductive dechlorination of PCE was observed with 0.5% clay (m/v) treated with 34.5 mM dithionite buffered at pH 8.5. The solid-state transfer of electrons to surfaces and edges, rather than the redox capacity, limited the dechlorination of PCE by reduced ferruginous smectite and/or suspensions containing a higher clay mass. The greater reactivity of dithionite-reduced montmorillonite than similarly treated ferruginous smectite is attributed to (i) the well-documented layer collapse and aggregation of chemically reduced clays that increases with the clay's iron content, (ii) the location of solid-phase Fe2+ in the reduced clay mineral and whether it is accessible or inaccessible for reaction with PCE at the mineral edges and surfaces where the reactions are thought to occur, and (iii) the greater swellability of montmorillonite versus ferruginous smectite. The faster dechlorination rate of PCE observed with dithionite-reduced Fe-poor montmorillonite than similarly reduced iron-rich ferruginous smectite suggests that the use of dithionite barriers for in-situ treatment of chlorinated solvent plumes should not be limited to aquifers with Fe-rich sediments.

Development of amphotericin B liposomes bearing antibody specific to Candida albicans

Liposomes expressing external antibody specific for Candida albicans and encapsulating amphotericin B were developed and characterized in this study. Antibody was first modified by the covalent attachment of palmitic acid residues. Liposomes were produced by reverse-phase evaporation and modified antibody was incorporated into these liposomes via the hydrophobic interaction between the palmitic acid and the phospholipids composing the liposomes. The liposomes were characterized as to the amount of amphotericin B by spectroscopy and for the presence of antibody by protein analysis and secondary immunolabeling by fluorescent and electron microscopic methods. Immunogold labeling showed that the antibody was being expressed externally on the liposomes in the electron microscopic studies and the specificity of these liposomes for C. albicans was observed by secondary immunofluorescence.

Chimpanzee serum lipoproteins. Isolation, characterisation and comparative aspects of the low density lipoprotein and apolipoprotein-BH

Evaluation of the serum lipoprotein profile in non-fasting, adult chimpanzees by analytical ultracentrifugation revealed a lower mean LDL level (269 mg/dl) than typical of man. The major molecular form(s) of low density lipoprotein (LDL) was then isolated in the density interval 1.024-1.050 g/ml by sequential ultracentrifugation. The physicochemical properties of chimpanzee LDL, including net surface charge as judged by electrophoresis, molecular size (220 A) by electron microscopy, and chemical composition closely resembled those of man. The antigenic structures of chimpanzee and human LDL were essentially indistinguishable, since immunodiffusion against antiserum to either the human or ape lipoprotein produced a precipitin reaction of complete identity between the two antigens. By micro-immunoprecipitation, the immunological cross-reactivity of LDL from the two species was in the range 85-97%, depending on the nature of the assay.

Lipid and protein composition of the surface tegument from larvae of Taenia taeniaeformis

A tegumental fraction from fully developed larvae of Taenia taeniaeformis was recovered by low speed centrifugation following incubation of the parasites in a 0.1% solution of digitonin. Scanning electron microscopy of the parasite carcass revealed no surface microtrichs, and transmission electron microscopy indicated that the subtegumental layer was undamaged. The tegumental fraction, judging from the distribution of 3H-Concanavalin A, was enriched for surface components, exhibited low succinic dehydrogenase activity, and an electron microscopic examination of the pellet showed a slightly expanded but intact distal tegumental layer. The fraction, which made up 3.0% of the dry weight of the parasite, consisted of 52% protein and 32% lipid. Thirty-three proteins, ranging in Mr from 9,000 to 276,000 daltons, were detected after sodium dodecyl sulfate solubilization and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Seven of these proteins were glycoproteins. Cholesterol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, and glycosphingolipids were the major lipids.

Isolation, characterization and comparative aspects of the major serum apolipoproteins, B-100 and AI, in the common marmoset, Callithrix jacchus

The two major apolipoproteins of marmoset serum have been isolated and characterized, and on the basis of physicochemical and immunological criteria are homologous with the human AI and B-100 proteins. Marmoset apolipoprotein AI was the principal protein of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) and was purified by gel filtration chromatography and electrophoresis in alkaline-urea polyacrylamide gel followed by electrophoretic elution. Purified marmoset apolipoprotein AI displayed an Mr of approx. 27000, was polymorphic (five forms) on isoelectric focussing, with pI values in the range 4.8-5.0, and migrated similarly to human apolipoprotein AI in alkaline-urea gels. An overall resemblance was seen in the amino acid composition of marmoset apolipoprotein AI and that of its human counterpart with the notable exception that marmoset AI contained 1 isoleucine residue/mole. An immunological reaction of partial identity between the human and monkey proteins was seen upon immunodiffusion of their HDLs against antiserum to human apolipoprotein AI. Marmoset B-100 was the predominant apoprotein of VLDL and LDL, resembling the human protein in its elution profile on gel filtration chromatography in anionic detergent, and in its high apparent Mr (approx. 520000). The marmoset and human B-100 proteins were alike in amino acid composition and carbohydrate content. Moreover, their immunological behaviour with an antiserum to marmoset apolipoprotein B showed them to share certain antigenic determinant(s). We conclude that the physicochemical properties of the principle apolipoproteins of Callithrix jacchus, a New World primate, markedly resemble those of the human AI and B-100 proteins, suggesting therefore that they may function similarly in lipid transport and metabolism. Counterparts to human apolipoproteins AII, E, CII and CIII have also been tentatively identified.

Chemical composition of lipid droplets isolated from larvae of Taenia taeniaeformis

Young developing larvae of Taenia taeniaeformis contain large deposits of osmiophilic droplets. These droplets are spherical, approximately 1.5 micron in diameter and are primarily localized in the tegument. After cellular disruption of the parasite, followed by centrifugation, the lipid droplets were found in a floating layer of lipid. The lipid droplets in the lipid layer resembled the droplets as seen in situ. The isolated lipid droplets mainly consisted of neutral lipids with triglycerides, sterol esters, sterols and free fatty acids being the major components. Smaller amounts of other neutral lipids were also present, as were glycolipids, phospholipids and protein. The lipid droplets were not membrane bound. The relationship between lipid droplets, lipid utilization and membrane synthesis during parasite growth is discussed.

Plasma lipids, lipoproteins and apoproteins in a case of apo C-II deficiency

A new case of apo C-II deficiency is described. The patient had plasma triglyceride levels ranging from 10.2-30.5 mmol/l. Apo C-II deficiency was confirmed by gel electrophoresis, isoelectric focusing and immunochemistry. In this patient plasma lipoproteins were mainly chylomicrons and very low density lipoproteins, LDL and HDL levels being very low. Infusion of normal plasma effectively reduced plasma triglycerides and enhanced low density and high density lipoproteins cholesterol levels. These data suggest that in vivo a precursor-product relationship exists between triglyceride rich lipoproteins and LDL and HDL, and further stress the role of the lipoprotein lipase-apo C-II system in modulating these metabolic interconversions.

The emergency evacuation of a geriatrics hospital in Toxteth

The evacuation of a 102-bed geriatrics hospital in the middle of the night and from the centre of a riot in Toxteth, Liverpool, is described, together with its effect on the patients involved. No increase in the mortality rate occurred during the six weeks following the evacuation, but a significant increase in morbidity was found. Specific recommendations are made for action to be taken should other city centre geriatrics hospitals need to be evacuated in similar circumstances.

Tryptic modification of human serum low-density lipoprotein leads to altered rates of turnover and intravascular transformation in the guinea pig

The metabolism of human serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and its trypsin-treated counterpart have been compared in the guinea pig in vivo. Removal of surface-exposed protein from the lipoprotein particle in this way resulted in significant modification of its metabolism in guinea pigs in vivo. Limited trypsinisation of LDL permitted removal of 20-25% of its protein moiety; trypsinised LDL was deficient in lysine and arginine residues (25-30% of each removed). The modified particle retained its basic structural features, such as internal molecular architecture, but displayed an elevated net negative surface charge and diminished immunological reactivity. Following intravascular injection of iodinated LDL (131I) and trypsinised LDL (125I) into the same animal, the two lipoproteins displayed biexponential decays; the rate constants for the plasma turnover of LDL and trypsinised LDL were significantly different (P less than 0.05), trypsinised LDL exhibiting a slower disappearance from the circulation. Density-gradient ultracentrifugation revealed marked elevation in the modal densities of both LDL and trypsinised LDL upon metabolism in vivo, although the rate of increase was greater for trypsinised LDL than LDL in each case (average increment 0.022 g/ml and 0.014 g/ml at 24 h respectively). The diminished plasma clearance of trypsinised LDL as compared to the native human and guinea pig LDL indicates that sites required for the cellular recognition and uptake of the LDL particle reside in its surface-exposed, trypsin-accessible protein. Furthermore, such protein appears to play a central role in regulating the intravascular processes by which the lipid content of LDL is diminished, and by which it is transformed to a particle of higher density.

Lipid composition of metacestodes of Taenia taeniaeformis and lipid changes during growth

A lipid analysis was performed on developing metacestodes of Taenia taeniaeformis removed from the livers of rats at times varying from 3 to 35 weeks post infection. Lipid accounted for 7-21% of the dry weight of the parasites. The highest proportions were found at the earlier stages. The distribution was as follows; neutral lipid 27-45%; glycolipid 5-11%; and phospholipid 50-61%. The major neutral lipid was cholesterol, and minor neutral lipids were sterol esters, triglycerides, diglycerides and monoglycerides. Hydrocarbons were present throughout development, but in the highest amounts at the earlier stages. Five different glycolipids were found, all of which were identified as glycosphingolipids. An increase in the proportion of more complex glycolipids was noted as parasites grew older. Ten different phospholipids were identified, with the major components being phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylserine. Other phospholipids were: lysophosphatides, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidic acid, diphosphatidylglycerol, sphingomyelin, and an unknown phospholipid component. Changes in the relative amounts of the two major phospholipids were found when the early and late stages were compared. Two lipids found throughout development were identified as glycosylated dolichol phosphates, and they comprised between 1 and 3% of the total phospholipid fraction. Nineteen fatty acids were detected, and the fatty acid distribution for each lipid class at each stage was determined. Seven major fatty acids were common to each. These were: hexadecanoic, octadecanoic, oleic, linoleic, arachidonic, docosanoic, and docosahexaenoic.

Measurement of urinary loss in elderly incontinent patients. A simple and accurate method

A simple method which uses beam balance scales, a portable timer, a large plastic-backed absorbent pad, and tight fitting pants has been developed to measure urinary loss in incontinent patients. Complete collection of all the urine lost was achieved in 220 (94%) of 234 incontinent episodes in patients from three long-term-care wards. The attendant's subjective assessment of "wetness", as used in other methods, was shown to be an extremely crude indicator of the degree of incontinence since the weight-gain in pads judged subjectively as being "wet" was anything from 0.7 to 341 g and there was considerable overlap between the weights of pads judged to be "dry", "damp", or "wet". In 6 healthy volunteers the mean weight-gain per pad caused by perspiration was 1.2 g/2 h and the mean change due to evaporation/leakage, determined by means of pre-wetted pads, was 1.0 g.

The anomalous behaviour of the permittivity of human serum low density lipoprotein around 37 degrees C

The structure of human serum low density lipoprotein has been investigated, as a function of temperature, by measurement of permittivity. Statistical analysis of the dielectric data reveals a transition at around the temperature of the human body. This may be associated with a structural change in the interior of the molecule.

A comparative dielectric study of human serum low density lipoprotein before and after partial digestion by trypsin

The relative permittivity of aqueous solutions of human serum low density lipoprotein (LDL) and partially trypsin digested lipoprotein (T-LDL) has been determined for various concentrations at 20 degrees C over the frequency range 0.15-100 MHz. Comparison of the dielectric dispersion curves for the digested lipoprotein with those for the native preparation revealed a larger low-frequency dielectric increment, which may be attributed to an increase in the number of counterions moving over the surface of the molecule. An explanation of this observation is an elevation of 70% in the net negative charge on the surface of the trypsin-treated particle as compared to its native counterpart.

Quantitative analysis of serum lipoproteins by micro-scale thin-layer chromatography

A method has been devised for the complete chemical analysis of serum lipoproteins, in which the constituents are separated by thin-layer chromatography and then measured by means of a flame ionisation detector. Since the response of the detector differs for each constituent, it is necessary to use a previously prepared calibration curve for each one. A complete analysis can be obtained from a single run on about 20 microgram of lipoprotein. However, from 5--10 chromatograms are needed for an adequate degree of precision. The method, which could be adapted to the measurement of tissue lipids, takes less than 2 h to complete. This speed and simplicity seem to give the method considerable potential for the investigation of patients with disorders of lipid transport.

The metabolic modification of low-density lipoproteins in normal and hypercholesterolaemic guinea pigs

1. Low-density lipoproteins were isolated by ultracentrifugation from the serum of guinea pigs that were fed either on a normal diet, or on a diet supplemented with corn oil and cholesterol. 2. After labelling with tracer amounts of radioactive iodine, these lipoproteins were injected into the bloodstream of guinea pigs that were fed either on the normal or on the supplemented diet. 3. In all cases, the density of the labelled lipoproteins was increased by exposure for 24-48 h to the metabolic processes of the guinea pig. 4. The final density reached by lipoproteins isolated from fat-fed guinea pigs was less than that reached by lipoproteins from normal animals. 5. Fat-fed guinea pigs were unable to increase the density of either normal lipoproteins, or those from fat-fed guinea pits, to the same extent as animals fed on the normal diet. 6. It is concluded that the lipid-rich diet brings about a modification of lipoprotein metabolism in the guinea, pig, which plays an important part in determining the nature of the nature of the low-density lipoprotein that is present in the plasma.