Research progress of nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids as marine characteristic natural products / 药学学报

Sesquiterpenoids are widely found in nature, while nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids are relatively rare. Twelve natural nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids were all derived from marine Aspergillus fungi, which are typical natural products with marine characteristics. These natural products exhibit good antitumor, antiviral, and inhibition of osteoclast differentiation activity, especially in the treatment of osteoclast-related diseases, showing good medicinal development value. This article reviews the natural product sources, chemical structure, chemical synthesis, biosynthesis, bioactivity, and pharmacological mechanisms of nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids and predicts and discusses their absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity (ADME/T), and drug-likeness, providing a comprehensive understanding of the natural products of nitrobenzoyl sesquiterpenoids from marine sources and their potential for pharmaceutical development.

Microplásticos en la sardina Sardinella aurita (Teleostei: Clupeidae) en Sucre, Venezuela / Microplastics in the sardine Sardinella aurita (Teleostei: Clupeidae) in Sucre, Venezuela

Resumen Introducción: La creciente presencia de plásticos en los ecosistemas acuáticos ha sido considerada como un problema ambiental emergente global. Existen estudios que han demostrado que los microplásticos pueden ser ingeridos por una variedad de organismos acuáticos. La variabilidad natural e importancia del recurso sardina, son razones suficientes para evaluar la presencia de estas partículas en el contenido estomacal, y así generar información acerca de las implicaciones de ingestión de estos contaminantes emergentes. Objetivo: Evaluar la presencia de microplásticos en el contenido estomacal de la sardina y su correlación con la condición fisiológica y reproductiva de los peces estudiados. Metodología: Se evaluaron un total de 800 sardinas, entre abril y mayo del 2022. Se midieron las variables morfométricas longitud total y peso, se determinó el factor de condición y el índice gonadosomático. Se extrajo el tracto digestivo y se determinó el peso del estómago lleno y vacío, además del peso del contenido estomacal para determinar el índice de repleción y vacuidad. Las variables determinadas se correlacionaron con la abundancia de microplásticos. El contenido estomacal fue procesado para extraer los microplásticos y caracterizarlos de forma física. Resultados: El índice de repleción presentó diferencias mensuales; su promedio fue de 0.311. El índice de vacuidad promedio fue de 0.276. La abundancia de microplásticos promedio fue 3 066 ítems, con diferencias mensuales e interacción con respecto al sexo y una frecuencia de aparición de 70.125 %, con un total de 2 402 fibras y 57 fragmentos. Las fibras negras fueron las más abundantes (947 ítems). Encontramos correlaciones bajas y positivas entre la abundancia de microplásticos, el índice gonadosomático y el peso de los organismos. Conclusiones: Estos resultados no pueden ser concluyente con respecto a las consecuencias causadas por este contaminante emergente. Mas estudios son necesarios, incluyendo ensayos de laboratorios con metodologías estandarizadas.

Abstract Introduction: The increasing presence of plastics in aquatic ecosystems has been considered as an emerging global environmental problem. Studies have shown that microplastics can be ingested by a variety of aquatic organisms. The natural variability and importance of the sardine resource are sufficient reasons to evaluate the presence of these particles in stomach contents, and thus generate information about the ingestion implications of these emerging contaminants. Objective: To evaluate the presenc e of microplastics in the stomach contents of sardines and their correlation with the physiological and reproductive condition of the fish studied. Methodology: We evaluated a total of 800 sardines between April and May 2022. We measured total length and weight, and determined the condition factor and the gonadosomatic index. We removed the digestive tract and weighed the stomach both empty and full, as well as the stomach contents to determine the repletion and emptiness index. We correlated the determined variables with the abundance of microplastics. We extracted microplastics and characterized them physically. Results: The filling index presented monthly differences with an average of 0.311. The average vacancy index was 0.276. The average abundance of microplastics was 3 066 items, with monthly differences and interaction with respect to sex and a frequency of appearance of 70.125 %, with a total of 2 402 fibers and 57 fragments. Black fibers were the most abundant (947 items). Low and positive correlations were found between the abundance of microplastics, the gonadosomatic index and the weight of the organisms. Conclusions: These results cannot be conclusive as to the consequences caused by this emerging pollutant. Further study is necessary, including laboratory tests with standardized methodologies.

The effect of extraction methods on total phenolics and antioxidant activities in Caulerpa racemosa (Forsskal) J. Agardh extracts / Efecto de los métodos de extracción sobre los fenoles totales y las actividades antioxidantes de los extractos de Caulerpa racemosa (Forsskal) J. Agardh

Background: The edible green algae Caulerpa racemosa (Forsskal) J. Agardh (Caulerpaceae), also known as "sea grape", is an excellent source of phenolic compounds known for their activity to reduce free radicals. Objectives: The research aims to evaluate the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of C. racemosa (70% ethanol extracts) obtained from different extraction methods, such as maceration, Soxhlet, and ultrasound. Methods: Total phenolics of the extracts were determined by the colorimetry method using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Total phenol content was expressed as mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per g extract. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical was used to assess the antioxidant activity of the extracts. Results: the ethanol extract of C. racemosa obtained from the ultrasonic methods had the highest phenolic content (39.38 mg GAE/g) compared to other extraction methods (Soxhlet was 36.88 mg GAE/g and maceration was 22.05 mg GAE/g). The IC50 value against DPPH of the C. racemosa ethanol extracts using ultrasonic, Soxhlet, and maceration was 352.95, 365.73, and 375.84 µg/mL, respectively. Conclusions: the variation of the extraction methods affected the total phenolics content of C. racemosa ethanol extracts and their antioxidant activity. We reported here the potential of C. racemosa extracts as an antioxidant raw material from marine plants for medicinal, nutraceutical, cosmetics, and food products; however, more research is needed.

Antecedentes: El alga verde comestible Caulerpa racemosa (Forsskal) J. Agardh (Caulerpaceae), también conocida como "uva de mar", es una excelente fuente de compuestos fenólicos conocidos por su actividad para reducir los radicales libres. Objetivos: La investigación pretende evaluar el contenido fenólico total y la actividad antioxidante de C. racemosa (extractos de etanol al 70%) obtenidos a partir de diferentes métodos de extracción, como maceración, Soxhlet y ultrasonido. Métodos: Los fenoles totales de los extractos se determinaron por el método colorimétrico utilizando el reactivo de Folin-Ciocalteu. El contenido total de fenoles se expresó como mg de ácido gálico equivalente (GAE) por g de extracto. Para evaluar la actividad antioxidante de los extractos se utilizó el radical libre 2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazilo (DPPH). Resultados: el extracto etanólico de C. racemosa obtenido por ultrasonido presentó el mayor contenido fenólico (39,38 mg GAE/g) en comparación con otros métodos de extracción (Soxhlet fue de 36,88 mg GAE/g y maceración fue de 22,05 mg GAE/g). El valor IC50 frente a DPPH de los extractos etanólicos de C. racemosa mediante ultrasonido, Soxhlet y maceración fue de 352,95, 365,73 y 375,84 µg/mL, respectivamente. Conclusiones: la variación de los métodos de extracción afectó al contenido total de fenoles de los extractos etanólicos de C. racemosa y a su actividad antioxidante. Aquí reportamos el potencial de los extractos de C. racemosa como materia prima antioxidante a partir de plantas marinas para productos medicinales, nutracéuticos, cosméticos y alimenticios; sin embargo, se necesita más investigación.

Phytoplankton composition from Araçá Bay and São Sebastião Channel, São Paulo, Brazil

: Despite its small area, Araçá Bay (AB) holds cultural, historical, and economic value and displays great benthic biodiversity. Thus, it is crucial to monitor its environmental health, including knowing the main groups of phytoplankton and their temporal variability. The shallow waters of Araçá Bay are continuously modified by the complex hydrography of the adjacent São Sebastião channel (SSC), challenging standard experimental designs for phytoplankton collection. Here we report changes in phytoplankton composition at intervals of five to six weeks from September 2013 to August 2014 in both Araçá Bay and SSC. Samples were collected twice daily for three consecutive days to increase taxonomic resolution. Our goal was to provide an inventory of species occurrences to aid future public policies and environmental management of the area. Analyses revealed high species richness and 166 different phytoplankton taxa. Diatoms and dinoflagellates were always numerically dominant, but taxa occurrence changed markedly. Diatoms of the genera Pseudo-nitzschia were abundant during spring and summer concurrently to signatures of South Atlantic Central Water in the SSC, while Thalassiosira occurred when waters displayed relatively lower salinity. The inventory demonstrated several potentially harmful species of microalgae and cyanobacteria, strongly suggesting investments in monitoring programs in this area that currently experience an increase in population.

Spatio-temporal variation in the growth of coral fragments of opportunity in the Eastern Tropical Pacific: implications for coral reef restoration

Introduction: Coral-reef communities are considered one of the most biodiverse, but also most threatened, marine ecosystems, and the accelerating loss of habitat over the past decades warrants active intervention. Objective: The present study demonstrates the successful implementation of a low-impact restoration technique in three Central Mexican Pacific degraded coral communities, using a protocol based on natural fragmentation (''fragments of opportunity") of the branching coral Pocillopora spp., considered the most abundant and primary carbonate-producing coral species of the Eastern Tropical Pacific. Methods: The restoration program was implemented in two offshore and one inshore coraline areas. The relationships between seawater temperature and coral survival, growth, and attachment rate were assessed over one year, with 183 fragments monitored each month. Results: The mean coral growth rate was 3.3 ± 0.1 mm mo-1, with annual growth rates in length and width of 39.9 ± 14.2 and 36.5 ± 19.5 mm yr-1, respectively. Self-attachment efficiency was 78 % and the survival rate was high (84 %). The growth rate differed significantly among reefs. Conclusions: Upon monitoring directly fragmented corals over a year, growth rates were deemed high enough to merit active restoration in the region. However, our data show that structural and abiotic differences and seasonal variability must be considered overall in successful long-term coral community restoration initiatives in the eastern Pacific region.

Introducción: Las comunidades de arrecifes de coral se consideran uno de los ecosistemas marinos con mayor biodiversidad, pero también los más amenazados, y la pérdida acelerada de hábitat en las últimas décadas justifica la implementación de una intervención activa. Objetivo: El presente estudio demuestra la implementación exitosa de una técnica de restauración de bajo impacto basada en la fragmentación natural (''fragmentos de oportunidad") del coral ramificado Pocillopora spp., la cual es la especie coralina más abundante y principal productora de carbonato del Pacífico Oriental Tropical. Métodos: El programa de restauración se implementó en dos sitios lejos de la costa y un sitio cercano a la costa, con comunidades coralinas degradadas. Las relaciones entre la temperatura del agua de mar y la supervivencia, el crecimiento y la tasa de adhesión de los corales se evaluaron durante un año con 183 fragmentos monitoreados cada mes. Resultados: La tasa media de crecimiento coralino fue de 3.3 ± 0.1 mm mo-1, con tasas de crecimiento anual en largo y ancho de 39.9 ± 14.2 y 36.5 ± 19.5 mm año-1, respectivamente. La eficiencia de la auto-adherencia fue del 78 % y la tasa de supervivencia fue alta (84 %). La tasa de crecimiento difirió significativamente entre los arrecifes. Conclusiones: Al monitorear directamente los corales fragmentados durante un año, las tasas de crecimiento se consideraron lo suficientemente altas como para merecer una restauración activa en la región. Sin embargo, nuestros datos muestran que las diferencias estructurales y abióticas y la variabilidad estacional deben considerarse en general en las iniciativas exitosas de restauración de comunidades de coral a largo plazo en la región del Pacífico oriental.

Embriogénesis, desarrollo larval y sobrevivencia post-asentamiento del coral Orbicella annularis (Scleractinia: Merulinidae)

Introducción: Las poblaciones del coral Orbicella annularis han mostrado bajo reclutamiento en el Caribe. Uno de los cuellos de botella demográficos es la alta mortalidad en las primeras etapas de desarrollo. El conocimiento detallado del ciclo y las tasas de supervivencia de estas fases nos permitirá ayudar en la recuperación de la población y la restauración de los arrecifes. Objetivo: Describir la embriogénesis y estadios larvarios obtenidos por fertilización asistida y medir las tasas de asentamiento y supervivencia de las larvas en sustratos artificiales, antes de ser trasplantadas al arrecife. Métodos: Seis días después de la luna llena de septiembre de 2021, se recolectaron bolsas de gametos de ocho colonias de O. annularis en el Parque Nacional Natural Los Corales del Rosario y San Bernardo, Colombia, y se llevaron al laboratorio. Se realizó fecundación cruzada, se siguió el desarrollo embrionario y larvario hasta el asentamiento larval y se registró supervivencia hasta el día 41. Las larvas se mantuvieron en tres tanques con agua de mar filtrada con 126 sustratos marcados, previamente acondicionados con algas coralináceas costrosas. Luego, los sustratos se trasplantaron al arrecife. Resultados: El inicio del desarrollo embrionario ocurrió 1.11 hAF (horas después de la fertilización), cuando las células mostraron signos de la primera división, y duró hasta 104.59 hAF cuando comenzaron a metamorfosearse. El asentamiento de larvas se observó al sexto día AF. Veintiún días después de la fecundación se encontraron zooxantelas. La supervivencia de las larvas después del asentamiento fue de 27.5 %. Conclusión: En este primer esfuerzo de propagación sexual utilizando O. annularis en Colombia, 1.4 % de larvas competentes completaron todo el proceso de desarrollo. Aunque la tasa de supervivencia fue baja, estos resultados se suman a los esfuerzos de restauración de corales en el Caribe en los que se ayuda a las especies a aumentar la supervivencia de los corales en sus primeras etapas de desarrollo.

Introduction: Populations of the coral Orbicella annularis have shown low recruitment in the Caribbean. One of the demographic bottlenecks is the high mortality in the early stages of development. Detailed knowledge of the cycle and survival rates of these phases will allow us to assist in population recovery and reef restoration. Objective: To describe the embryogenesis and larval stages obtained by assisted fertilization and measure the settlement and survival rates of larvae on artificial substrates, before being outplanted to the reef. Methods: Six days after the full moon in September 2021, gamete bundles were collected from eight O. annularis colonies in Los Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, Colombia and brought to the laboratory. Cross fertilization was carried out and embryonic and larval development were followed until larval settlement and survival was recorded until day 41. The larvae were kept in three tanks with filtered sea water with 126 tagged substrates, previously conditioned with crustose coralline algae. The substrates were then outplanted to the reef. Results: The onset of embryonic development occurred 1.11 hAF (hours after fertilization), when cells showed signs of the first cleavage, and lasted until 104.59 hAF when they began to metamorphose. Larvae settlement was observed on the sixth day AF. Twenty-one days after fertilization, zooxanthellae were found. Post-settlement larval survival was 27.5 %. Conclusions: In this first sexual propagation effort using O. annularis in Colombia, 1.4 % of competent larvae completed the entire development process. Although low survival rate, these results add to coral restoration efforts in the Caribbean in which species are assisted to increase the survival of corals in their early stages of development.

Primeros registros de Echiophis brunneus (Teleosteo; Ophichthidae) "anguila pecosa" en el norte del Perú

Echiophis brunneus, comúnmente conocida como anguila pecosa, es una especie bentónica costera de la familia Ophichthidae. Su distribución se reporta para el Pacífico Oriental desde el Golfo de California (EE. UU.) hasta el Golfo de Guayaquil (Ecuador). Se reporta por primera vez la presencia de E. brunneus en el norte del Perú a partir de tres ejemplares capturados. Así mismo se registra una nueva talla máxima para la especie y se adiciona la secuencia COI a la base de datos BoldSystems. Una de las principales características para su determinación fue la presencia del diente canino grande localizado en la zona distal del vómer. Las distancias genéticas entre E. brunneus con E. punctifer y E. intertinctus fueron de 0.087±0.013 y 0.095±0.014 respectivamente. Con este trabajo se amplía la distribución geográfica de E. brunneus hasta Salaverry (08°13'28"S, 78°59'22"W), así mismo sugerimos el posible establecimiento de una población de esta especie en la costa norte del Perú.

Echiophis brunneus, commonly known as fangjaw eel, is a coastal benthic species belonging to the Ophichthidae family. Its distribution is reported to be in the Eastern Pacific from the Gulf of California (USA) to the Gulf of Guayaquil (Ecuador). In this study, we report for the first time the presence of E. brunneus based on three specimens captured in northern Peru. Additionally, a new maximum size for the species is recorded, and the first COI sequence is added to the BoldSystems database. One of the main characteristics for its determination was the presence of a large canine tooth located in the distal area of the vomer. The genetic distances between E. brunneus with E. punctifer and E. intertinctus were 0.087±0.013 and 0.095±0.014 respectively. With this work the geographical distribution of E. brunneus is extended to Salaverry (08°13'28"S, 78°59'22"W). We also suggest the possible establishment of a population of this species on the northern coast of Peru.

Primer registro del pez joya rosada Anthias noeli (Perciformes, Serranidae) en el litoral del Perú

En este trabajo se registra a Anthias noeli Anderson & Baldwin, 2000 por primera vez en el Perú. Entre el 2016 y 2019, se capturaron 15 ejemplares en el litoral del departamento de Tumbes, en el extremo norte del Perú. Los ejemplares fueron fotografiados en fresco, se realizaron los análisis merísticos y morfométricos para su identificación. Además, de cinco individuos se obtuvieron tejido muscular para determinar las secuencias del gen COI. Los análisis filogenéticos confirmaron su identificación como A. noeli. Las secuencias fueron depositadas en la base de datos públicos BOLD Systems, siendo las primeras secuencias depositadas de esta especie. Con este registro se amplía la distribución sur de A. noeli.

This work documents the first record of Anthias noeli Anderson & Baldwin, 2000 in Peru. Between 2016 and 2019, fifteen specimens were captured from the littoral of the Tumbes Department, located in the northernmost of Peru. Fresh photographs were taken of the specimens and meristic and morphometric analyses were conducted for species identification. Additionally, muscle tissue was extracted from five individuals to determine COI gene sequences. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the specimens' identity as A. noeli, and the sequences were deposited in the public database BOLD Systems, representing the first deposited sequences for this species. This record expands the southern distribution of A. noeli.

Morphology and Morphometry of the Magellanic Penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) Trachea / Morfologia e morfometria da traqueia do pinguim-de-Magalhães (Spheniscus magellanicus)

Objective: This work aimed to describe the trachea of the Magellanic Penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) through descriptive and morphometric approaches. Methods: ten adult male Spheniscus magellanicus were used, which were collected, fixed, and kept immersed in an aqueous solution of 10% formaldehyde. Results: the trachea of the penguin began caudally from the cricoid cartilage of the larynx, represented by 121.3±5.65 cartilaginous rings joined together, which extended to the syrinx (19.75±0.70 cm). Considering its five segments (I-V), the number of tracheal rings decreased in a cranio-caudal direction. The medial tracheal septum, which started caudally from the cricoid cartilage of the larynx, was approximately 2±0.08 cm and was formed by approximately 6.75±0.25 rings. The dimensions of the lumen of the trachea decreased cranio-caudally, with a statistical difference between segment I and the others (II to V). The syrinx of the tracheobronchial type presented 7.52±0.65 rings. Conclusions: these data will contribute to the understanding of the anatomy of this species, as well as to the diagnosis and treatment of possible tracheal pathologies found in it.

Objetivo: o objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever a traqueia do pinguim-de-Magalhães (Spheniscus magellanicus), por meio de abordagens descritivas e mofométricas. Metodologia: foram utilizados dez Spheniscus magellanicus, adultos, machos que foram após coletas, fixados e mantidos imersos em solução aquosa, a 10% de formaldeído. Resultados: a traqueia do pinguim iniciou-se, caudalmente, a cartilagem cricoide da laringe, representada por 121,3±5,65 anéis cartilaginosos unidos entre si, que se estenderam até as siringes (19,75±0,70 cm). Considerando seus cinco segmentos (I-V), o número de anéis traqueais diminuiu seu número em sentido craniocaudal. O septo traqueal medial teve início caudalmente a cartilagem cricoide da laringe, aproximadamente 2±0,08 cm, e foi formado por, aproximadamente, 6,75±0,25 anéis. As dimensões do lúmen da traqueia diminuíram craniocaudalmente, com diferença estatística entre o segmento I e os outros (II a V). As siringes, do tipo traqueobronquiais, apresentaram 7,52±0,65 anéis. Conclusões: esses dados contribuirão para o entendimento da anatomia dessa espécie, bem como para o diagnóstico e tratamento de possíveis patologias traqueais nela encontradas.

Application Regularity and Mechanism of Chinese Marine Drug Pair Haliotidis Concha-Oystreae Concha Based on Literature Mining Technology / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo analyze the clinical application hotspots， development trends， compatibility characteristics， application rules， and formulation mechanisms of the Chinese marine drug pair Haliotidis Concha-Oystreae Concha in order to provide references for its clinical medication and further research. MethodBy means of various modern literature databases such as China National Knowledge Infrastructure （CNKI）， modern clinical prescriptions containing Haliotidis Concha-Oystreae Concha， as well as the clinical application hotspots， were retrieved， followed by visualized analysis of hotspots and development trends of their clinical applications using Citespace. The drug composition， efficacy and indications， and drug dosages in the prescriptions were statistically analyzed. Additionally， various statistical software including SPSS Modeler 18.0 were employed to analyze the indications， syndromes， and formulation rules of Haliotidis Concha-Oystreae Concha. ResultThe visualized analysis included 90 articles， revealing a gradual decrease in publications in this field in recent years. Key clinical application keywords were identified as hypertension， collateral deficiency producing wind， insomnia， etc. Eighty clinical prescriptions were retrieved， involving 121 drugs. Frequency analysis of compatibility demonstrated that the top 10 drugs were Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis， Gastrodiae Rhizoma， Os Draconis， Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix， Paeoniae Radix Alba， Chrysanthemi Flos， Scutellariae Radix， Gardeniae Frucuts， Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma， and Polygoni Multiflori Caulis. Association rule analysis showed that core combinations included "Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis-Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix" and "Os Draconis-Pheretima-Chuanxiong Rhizoma". Through factor reliability analysis， new drug combinations were derived， such as "Gastrodiae Rhizoma-Polygoni Multiflori Caulis-Eucommiae Cortex-Taxilli Herba-Leonuri Herba"， "Achyranthis Bidentatae Radix-Uncariae Ramulus cum Uncis"， "Scutellariae Radix-Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma-Margarita-Prunellae Spica"， "Os Draconis-Pheretima-Bombyx Batryticatus"， "Chrysanthemi Flos-Chuanxiong Rhizoma"， "Poria-Acori Tatarinowii Rhizoma"， and "Paeoniae Radix Alba-Gardeniae Fructus-Sclerotium Poriae Pararadicis". The Haliotidis Concha-Oystreae Concha drug pair was mainly used to treat diseases with liver Yang hyperactivity syndrome， with hypertension accounting for 40.00%， migraines for 30.00%， and dizziness for 15.00%. In the treatment of liver Yang hyperactivity syndrome， the main categories of compatible drugs were liver-pacifying and wind-extinguishing ones （19.86%）， blood-activating and stasis-resolving ones （12.13%）， and spirit-calming ones （10.08%）. High-frequency drugs in the prescriptions function to reduce blood pressure through multiple pathways， such as increasing nitric oxide （NO） levels， downregulating angiotensin Ⅱ （Ang Ⅱ）， and inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme （ACE）. ConclusionThrough comprehensive analysis of the results， the Haliotidis Concha-Oystreae Concha drug pair is commonly used for hypertension with liver Yang hyperactivity syndrome， and is often combined with deficiency-tonifying， liver-pacifying and wind-extinguishing， heat-clearing， and spirit-calming drugs， aiming to simultaneously extinguish wind， relieve spasms， and pacify the liver to subdue Yang， while also clearing heat to relax bowels， stabilizing the mind， and enhancing the liver-pacifying and Yang-subduing effects of this drug pair.

Infection status of Anisakis larvae in the major economic marine products in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea from 2016 to 2020 / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To learn about the infection status of Anisakis larvae in the major economic marine products in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea, and provide baseline data for systematic monitoring of Anisakis and prevention and control of related diseases. Methods:From April 2016 to September 2020, the samples of marine products collected in the surrounding waters of 9 fishing sites in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea (Bohai Bay, the middle part of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea junction, the southern part of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea junction, the northern part of the Yellow Sea and the southern part of the Yellow Sea) in the coastal areas of Yantai City and Weihai City, Shandong Province were dissected and tested for worms. The infection and distribution of Anisakis larvae in different types of samples and different organs in the samples were compared, and the differences of the infection level of Anisakis larvae in marine fish among the surrounding waters of different fishing sites and different sampling sites in China were compared. At the same time, a survey on the awareness of health knowledge of anisakiasis was carried out among the residents near each fishing sites. Results:A total of 708 cases of 5 types of marine products were tested in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea, including 581 cases of marine fish, 22 cases of mollusks, 20 cases of echinodermata, 75 cases of crustaceans and 10 cases of shellfish. Anisakis larvae infection was detected only in marine fish (191 cases), and 4 723 Anisakis larvae were found. The infection rate was 32.87% (191/581) and the infection intensity was 24.73(4 723/191) larvae/case. They were mainly distributed in mesentery and intestinal wall (38.96%, 1 840/4 723), coelom (22.04%, 1 041/4 723) and gastric wall (17.95%, 848/4 723). The infection levels of Anisakis larvae in marine fish among the surrounding waters of different fishing sites were compared, the infection rate in the southern part of the Yellow Sea was the highest, and its infection intensity was significantly higher than that in the middle and southern part of the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea junction ( P < 0.05). The infection levels of Anisakis larvae in marine fish among different sampling sites in China were compared, the infection rates of Zhoushan Port, the fish sold in Jinzhou, Yantai and Shantou were significantly higher than those in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea ( P < 0.05), and the infection rates of the fish sold in Dandong and Qingdao were significantly lower than those in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea ( P < 0.05). A total of 1 805 residents living near the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea were investigated on the health knowledge of anisakiasis. Among them, 20.78% (375/1 805) residents had heard of anisakiasis, 15.73% (284/1 805) residents knew how to get it, 12.30% (222/1 805) residents knew the harm of anisakiasis to human body, and 16.68% (301/1 805) residents knew how to prevent it. Conclusions:The marine fish in the Yellow Sea and Bohai Sea are infected by the Anisakis larvae, and the level of infection is relatively high. In the future, we should strengthen the popularization of knowledge on prevention and control of anisakiasis.

Identification of the metabolites from co-cultures of marine Streptomyces sp. IMB18-531 and Cladosporium sp. IMB19-099 / 药学学报

A new siderophore chelate (1) and 8 known compounds were identified from the liquid co-cultures of the marine-derived Streptomyces sp. IMB18-531 and Cladosporium sp. IMB19-099 by a combination of chromatography methods, including C18 reversed-phase medium pressure chromatography, gel column chromatography and HPLC. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis and chemical methods as aluminioxamine E (1), desferrioxamine E (2), ferrioxamine E (3), terragine E (4), capsimicin (5), cyclo(L-prolinyl-L-tyrosine) (6), anthranilic acid (7), (Z)-14-methylpentadec-9-enoic acid (8), and (Z)-hexadec-8-enoic acid (9). Compound 2 showed inhibitory activities against the expression of liver fibrosis related genes COL1A1, MMP2, and TIMP2. Compounds 5, 8, and 9 displayed antibacterial activities against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis, with MICs of 16-64 μg·mL-1. Compound 5 showed cytotoxicities against human pancreatic cancer MIA Paca-2 and human colon cancer HT-29 cell lines with IC50 of 2.9 and 6.3 μmol·L-1, respectively.

Radioactivity in marine organisms around Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant / 中国辐射卫生

@#<b>Objective</b> To determine the radioactive enrichment level in marine biological media around Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant and to evaluate the impact of effluent on marine biological media in the surrounding sea area based on the discharge of effluent from the nuclear power plant over the years and the monitoring level of surrounding marine media. <b>Methods</b> The monitoring data of ³H, ¹⁴C, ⁹⁰Sr, ¹³⁷Cs, and ^110mAg in the environmental media monitored in Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant from 2008 to 2017 were collected, and the data were processed and analyzed by IBM SPSS Statistics 26. <b>Results</b> The activity concentrations of tritium in mullet and oyster in the sea area around Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant were 0.5-2.9 Bq/kg and 0.55-8.2 Bq/kg, respectively, and the activity concentrations of tritium in both increased generally under the influence of effluent from the nuclear power plant. The activity concentrations of ¹⁴C, ¹³⁷Cs, and ⁹⁰Sr in the monitored organisms were lower than the background values. The results of correlation analysis showed that the effluent from the nuclear power plant had almost no effect on ¹⁴C. The activity level of ^110mAg decreased significantly year by year in oyster, and remained below the background level in mullet. <b>Conclusion</b> Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant is the longest operating nuclear power plant in mainland China. Most of the nuclides in biological media in the surrounding sea area are lower than the background levels, and the effluents from the nuclear power plant have little influence on marine biological media in the surrounding sea area.

Effect of physical parameters in enhancing prodigiosin production and anti-MRSA activity of marine bacterium, Serratia marcescens IBRL USM84

Aims@#Marine bacteria have been reported to produce potential natural pigment with pharmaceutical properties and their growth can be manipulated in the laboratory to increase pigment production and their antimicrobial activity. Hence, this study aimed to enhance the prodigiosin production in Serratia marcescens IBRL USM84 by improving physical conditions.@*Methodology and results@#The quantification of the pigment produced by S. marcescens IBRL USM84, bacterial cell growth, and its antibacterial activity in the broth medium were determined using a spectrophotometry method. Meanwhile, the antibacterial effect of red pigment on MRSA cells was observed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). This marine isolate produced the highest yield of prodigiosin (6.95 μg/mL) when cultivated in marine broth with the addition of 0.2% of agar, 25 °C incubation temperature, initial medium pH of 7, 150 rpm of agitation speed for 48 h of cultivation time under light illumination. There was an increment of 151.81% in prodigiosin production after enhancement compared to before the enhancement of cultural conditions. SEM observations revealed that severe damage to the cell’s morphologies was exposed to red pigment as indicated by the formation of small dents, which led to completely collapse and eventually, cell death.@*Conclusion, significance and impact of study@#A positive correlation between pigment production and antibacterial activity was observed in the present study. The results supported the fact that marine bacteria are a reservoir of various pigments with antimicrobial properties. Also, the pigment production by S. marcescens and its antibacterial activity were significantly influenced by physical parameters.

Evaluation of toxin-induced injury and protective effect of triptolide based on a cardiovascular chip model / 药学实践杂志

Objective To construct a cardiovascular chip model for evaluating the damage of vascular glycocalyx induced by four marine toxins: okadaic acid (OA), conotoxin (CTX), tetrodotoxin (TTX) and gymnodimine (GYM), and explore the protective effect of triptolide on toxin-induced injury. Methods Human umbilical vein endothelial cells（HUVEC) were inoculated into a three-channel microfluidic chip. CCK-8 method and immunofluorescence staining were used to analyze the damage of cell viability and glycocalyx tissue induced by low, middle and high concentrations of marine toxin, as well as the protective effect of triptolide on toxin-induced injury. Results The cells in the cardiovascular chip grew well and had structurally intact glycocalyx. Compared with the control group, the activity of HUVEC cells were inhibited in group of the medium and high concentration of OA and high concentration of GYM (P<0.05). The activity of cells had not been inhibited by CTX and TTX significantly , but all the four toxins caused serious damage to the glycocalyx tissue (P<0.01). After pre-protection with triptolide, the toxicity of the four toxins to HUVEC cells and the damage rate of glycocalyx decreased significantly. Conclusion The four marine biotoxins could damage the activity and glycocalyx of HUVEC cells in a dose-dependent manner, while triptolide has a protective effect on HUVEC cells injured by toxin.

Prevalence of Anisakise infections in marine fishes in Eastern Fujian Fishing Ground of Fujian Province / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To investigate the prevalence of Anisakis infection in marine fishes in Eastern Fujian Fishing Ground of Fujian Province, so as to provide insights into the development of the anisakiasis control strategy.. Methods Marine fish samples were randomly collected from Jiaocheng District, Fuding City and Xiapu County around Eastern Fujian Fishing Ground in Fujian Province from September to December, 2021. All fishes were dissected, and the abdominal contents were collected. Parasites were sampled under a stereomicroscope and the Anisakis species were identified through morphology. The prevalence and intensity of Anisakis infections were calculated. Results A total of 177 marine fishes belonging to 24 species were dissected, and Anisakis was detected in 73 marine fishes (41.2%) belonging to 16 species (66.7%), with a mean infection intensity of 14.3 parasites per fish. High prevalence of Anisakis infection was found in Ilisha elongata (5/5), Miichthys miiuy (3/3), Plectorhynchus cinctus (2/2), Scomberomorus niphonius (12/13), Trichiurus lepturus (19/23), Pennahia argentata (6/11) and Ditrema temmincki (14/27), with mean infection intensities of 9.2, 2.7, 4.5, 10.9, 39.2, 4.5 parasites per fish and 2.1 parasites per fish. The Anisakis larvae were characterized as Anisakis and Hysterothylacium. Conclusions High prevalence of Anisakis infection is detected in marine fishes in Eastern Fujian Fishing Ground of Fujian Province. The health education pertaining to food health is required to be reinforced to prevent the development of human anisakiasis.

Protease inhibitors as a potential agent against visceral Leishmaniasis: A review to inspire future study

Abstract Leishmaniasis is transmitted by sandfly which carries the intracellular protozoa in their midgut. Among visceral, cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis, visceral type that is caused by Leishmania donovani is the most lethal one. Findings of leishmanial structure and species took place in 19th century and was initiated by Donovan. Leishmaniasis is still a major concern of health issues in many endemic countries in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Mediterranean region. Worldwide1.5-2 million new cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis and 500,000 cases of visceral leishmaniasis are reported each year. Leishmaniasis is endemic in nearly 90 countries worldwide and close to 12 million new cases of leishmaniasis are reported worldwide annually. Studies on antileishmanial drug development is of major concern as leishmaniasis are the second largest parasitic killer in the world and the available drugs are either toxic or costly. The major surface GP63 protease, also known as Zinc- metalloproteases present on the surface of leishmanial promastigotes, can be targeted for drug development. Protease inhibitors targeting such surface proteases show promising results. Different protease inhibitors have been isolated from marine actinobacteria against many infectious diseases. Metabolites produced by these actinobacteria may have greater importance for the discovery and development of new antileishmanial drugs. Hence, this review discusses the background, current situation, treatment, and protease inhibitors from marine actinobacteria for drug development against GP63 molecules.

Mating behavior of the lemon shark, Negaprion brevirostris (Carcharhiniformes: Carcharhinidae), as revealed by citizen science in the Equatorial Atlantic Ocean / Comportamiento de apareamiento del tiburón limón Negaprion brevirostris (Carcharhiniformes: Carcharhinidae), revelado por la ciencia ciudadana en el Océano Atlántico Ecuatorial

Introduction: Knowledge on the mating behavior and habitat requirements of large sharks, including the lemon shark, Negaprion brevirostris, is scarce, hampering conservation efforts. Objective: To describe an area in the Equatorial Atlantic used as a mating ground by N. brevirostris, as well as part of the species pre-copulatory behaviors based on citizen reports. Methods: Between 2004 and 2019, recreational divers, dive guides and rangers from the Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Fernando de Noronha Archipelago (FEN) recorded courtship behaviour, females with mating scars, pregnant females, and adult males. Results: N. brevirostris was recorded mating in shallow waters (0.5-2 m deep) during the austral summer (December to March). A specific location in the MPA, Buraco da Raquel lagoon, was the main aggregation and mating site for adult N. brevirostris in FEN. Conclusions: Citizen science records allowed the identification of shallow waters as key sites for the reproduction of this shark in FEN. Results highlight the potential of citizen science contributions to knowledge of sharks in nature and show MPAs as essential for habitat conservation of sharks with decreasing populations along the Brazilian coast, such as N. brevirostris. We present management recommendations to protect N. brevirostris there and elsewhere.

Introducción: El conocimiento sobre el comportamiento reproductivo y requisitos de hábitat de apareamiento de los tiburones grandes, incluido el tiburón limón, Negaprion brevirostris, es escaso, lo que dificulta los esfuerzos de conservación. Objetivo: Describir un área en el Océano Atlántico ecuatorial utilizada como zona de apareamiento y las interacciones precopulatorias del tiburón limón con base en informes proporcionados por ciencia ciudadana. Métodos: Buzos recreativos, guías de buceo y guardaparques del Área Marina Protegida (AMP) en el archipiélago Fernando de Noronha (FEN) llevaron registros de comportamientos de cortejo, hembras con cicatrices de apareamiento, hembras preñadas y machos adultos, entre 2004 y 2019. Resultados: Las aguas poco profundas entre 0.5 y 2 m de profundidad son utilizadas como áreas de apareamiento por N. brevirostris durante el verano austral (diciembre a marzo). Un lugar específico, dentro del AMP (laguna de Buraco da Raquel), fue identificado como el principal sitio de agregación y apareamiento de adultos de N. brevirostris en FEN. Conclusiones: Registros de ciencia ciudadana permitieron identificar aguas poco profundas como sitios clave para la reproducción de este tiburón en FEN. Los resultados resaltan el potencial de las contribuciones de la ciencia ciudadana al conocimiento de los tiburones en la naturaleza y muestran que las AMP son esenciales para la conservación del hábitat de tiburones con poblaciones decrecientes a lo largo de la costa brasileña, como N. brevirostris. Presentamos recomendaciones de gestión para proteger a N. Brevirostri, allí y en otros lugares.

First use of baited remote underwater video stations to assess fish diversity in the Metropolitan Region of Recife, Northeastern Brazil / Primer uso de Sistemas de Videos Remotos Submarinos Cebados para evaluar la diversidad de peces en la Región Metropolitana de Recife, noreste de Brasil

Abstract Introduction: Video techniques are used worldwide to study marine communities. As elsewhere, the use of remote underwater videos has recently increased in Brazil and there is a need for information about their advantages, disadvantages, and reliability in tropical habitats. Objective: To evaluate the use of baited remote underwater video stations (BRUVS) in fish diversity research in a tropical habitat. Methods: We used baited video stations to record the fishes and their relationship with habitat type, underwater visibility and depth, in 79 random sites in the Metropolitan Region of Recife, Northeastern Brazil (11 days in November 2017). Results: We recorded 3 286 individuals (65 taxa, 29 families) along a 25 km section of the shoreline, 10.2 to 28.6 m depth. The Clupeidae dominated numerically, followed by Haemulidae, Carangidae, and Lutjanidae; by species, Haemulon aurolineatum, Opisthonema oglinum, Haemulon steindachneri, Lutjanus synagris and Caranx crysos. The highest mean number of species was detected over sediment close to shipwrecks, but we found no differences among the mean number of individuals between habitat types. More species and individuals were observed at a depth of 20-25 m depth. The highest mean number of species was in 2-3 m of visibility, and the highest number of individuals within 4-5 m. Conclusions: Video recording seemed to be a valid method, and indicated that -besides being relatively diverse- the local fish community is dominated by a few species of small and medium-sized mesopredators, and a few top predators.

Resumen Introducción: Las técnicas de video se utilizan en todo el mundo para estudiar las comunidades marinas. Como en otros lugares, el uso de videos submarinos remotos ha aumentado recientemente en Brasil y existe la necesidad de información sobre sus ventajas, desventajas y confiabilidad en los hábitats tropicales. Objetivo: Evaluar el uso de estaciones de video subacuáticas remotas cebadas en la investigación de la diversidad de peces en un hábitat tropical. Métodos: Utilizamos estaciones de video cebadas para registrar los peces y su relación con el tipo de hábitat, la visibilidad submarina y la profundidad, en 79 sitios aleatorios en la Región Metropolitana de Recife, noreste de Brasil (11 días en noviembre de 2017). Resultados: Registramos 3 286 individuos (65 taxones, 29 familias) a lo largo de una sección de 25 km de la costa, de 10.2 a 28.6 m de profundidad. Los Clupeidae dominaron numéricamente, seguidos de Haemulidae, Carangidae y Lutjanidae; por especies, Haemulon aurolineatum, Opisthonema oglinum, Haemulon steindachneri, Lutjanus synagris y Caranx crysos. El mayor número medio de especies se detectó sobre sedimentos cerca de naufragios, pero no encontramos diferencias entre el número medio de individuos entre tipos de hábitat. Se observaron más especies e individuos a una profundidad de 20-25 m. El mayor número medio de especies se registró en 2-3 m de visibilidad, y el mayor número de individuos en 4-5 m. Conclusiones: La grabación en video pareció ser un método válido e indicó que, además de ser relativamente diversa, la comunidad local de peces está dominada por unas pocas especies de mesodepredadores de tamaño pequeño y mediano, y pocos depredadores superiores.

Enfermedad del desgaste en praderas de Thalassia testudinum (Hydrocharitaceae) y su relación con el perfil metabólico / Wasting disease in Thalassia testudinum (Hydrocharitaceae) meadows and its relationship with metabolic profile

Resumen Introducción: Los protistas del género Labyrinthula causan la denominada "Enfermedad del desgaste" en el pasto marino, Thalassia testudinum. Desde el 2008 los monitoreos en el Caribe colombiano han mostrado variación espacial y temporal en la incidencia de la enfermedad, pero sin la alta mortalidad observada en otras regiones del mundo. Objetivo: Analizar algunos parámetros epidemiológicos en T. testudinum y comparar metabolitos entre plantas sanas e infectadas. Métodos: Registramos la severidad, incidencia y prevalencia de esta enfermedad en el Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona e Isla de Providencia, y analizamos muestras de agua y sedimentos. Además, aplicamos cromatografía líquida y de gases, junto con espectrometría de masas, a extractos metanólicos de muestras de hojas y rizomas de brotes sanos e infectados. Resultados: Las praderas se encontraban en buen estado, a pesar de la escasez de brotes de fanerógamas marinas en Tayrona y una alta incidencia (15 %) y severidad (355 %) de la enfermedad en Providencia. Las plantas infectadas tenían niveles más bajos de fenoles, flavonoides y azúcares. Las flavonas sulfatadas con aglicona luteolina y diosmetina, los esteroles (sitosterol y estigmasterol) y las oxilipinas volátiles se acumularon en las hojas (3-hidroxi-2-isopentanona) y los ácidos isopentanoico y octadecatrienoico en los rizomas. Conclusiones: Estos pastos marinos colombianos tienen producción diferencial de metabolitos. Probablemente como una defensa exitosa, aún a niveles bajos de severidad (0.1 %) e incidencia (1 %) de la enfermedad.

Abstract Introduction: Protists of the genus Labyrinthula cause the so-called "Wasting Disease" in seagrass, Thalassia testudinum. Monitoring in the Colombian Caribbean since 2008 has shown spatial and temporal variation in the disease's incidence, but without the high mortality observed in other regions of the world. Objective: To analyze some epidemiological parameters in T. testudinum and to compare metabolites between healthy and infected plants. Methods: We recorded severity, incidence and prevalence of this disease in Tayrona National Natural Park and Providencia Island, and we analyze water and sediment samples. Additionally, we applied gas and liquid chromatography, coupled with mass spectrometry, to methanolic extracts from leaf and rhizome samples of healthy and infected shoots. Results: The meadows were in good condition, despite the scarce seagrass shoots in Tayrona and a high incidence (15 %) and severity (35.5 %) of the disease in Providencia. Infected plants had lower levels of phenols, flavonoids and sugars. Sulphated flavones with aglycone luteolin and diosmetin, sterols (sitosterol and stigmasterol) and volatile oxylipins are accumulated in leaves (3-hydroxy-2-isopentanone) and isopentaenoic and octadecatrienoic acids in rhizomes. Conclusions: These Colombian seagrasses have differential production of metabolites. Probably as a successful defense, even at low levels of severity (0.1 %) and incidence (1 %) of the disease.