Initiation and Prevention of Biological Damage by Radiation-Generated Protein Radicals

Ionizing radiations cause chemical damage to proteins. In aerobic aqueous solutions, the damage is commonly mediated by the hydroxyl free radicals generated from water, resulting in formation of protein radicals. Protein damage is especially significant in biological systems, because proteins are the most abundant targets of the radiation-generated radicals, the hydroxyl radical-protein reaction is fast, and the damage usually results in loss of their biological function. Under physiological conditions, proteins are initially oxidized to carbon-centered radicals, which can propagate the damage to other molecules. The most effective endogenous antioxidants, ascorbate, GSH, and urate, are unable to prevent all of the damage under the common condition of oxidative stress. In a promising development, recent work demonstrates the potential of polyphenols, their metabolites, and other aromatic compounds to repair protein radicals by the fast formation of less damaging radical adducts, thus potentially preventing the formation of a cascade of new reactive species.

A Hydrogel-Based Microfluidic Nerve Cuff for Neuromodulation of Peripheral Nerves

Implantable neuromodulation devices typically have metal in contact with soft, ion-conducting nerves. These neural interfaces excite neurons using short-duration electrical pulses. While this approach has been extremely successful for multiple clinical applications, it is limited in delivering long-duration pulses or direct current (DC), even for acute term studies. When the charge injection capacity of electrodes is exceeded, irreversible electrochemical processes occur, and toxic byproducts are discharged directly onto the nerve, causing biological damage. Hydrogel coatings on electrodes improve the overall charge injection limit and provide a mechanically pliable interface. To further extend this idea, we developed a silicone-based nerve cuff lead with a hydrogel microfluidic conduit. It serves as a thin, soft and flexible interconnection and provides a greater spatial separation between metal electrodes and the target nerve. In an in vivo rat model, we used this cuff to stimulate and record from sciatic nerves, with performance comparable to that of metal electrodes. Further, we delivered DC through the lead in an acute manner to induce nerve block that is reversible. In contrast to most metallic cuff electrodes, which need microfabrication equipment, we built this cuff using a consumer-grade digital cutter and a simplified molding process. Overall, the device will be beneficial to neuromodulation researchers as a general-purpose nerve cuff electrode for peripheral neuromodulation experiments.

Biological Attacks on Underground Hydroelectric Pump Storage Power Stations

Studies have shown the unconditional danger of biological attacks on underground hydroelectric pumped-storage power stations. A hypothetical list of biological damage to water conduits and dams is determined. Relevant predictions are given, as well as accident events of hydraulic structures are described. A universal scheme for the application of hazard protection measures, which can be comprehensive, has been developed. Praemonitus praemunitus – precautions should be taken.

Quantitative modeling of carcinogenesis induced by single beams or mixtures of space radiations using targeted and non-targeted effects

Ionizing radiations encountered by astronauts on deep space missions produce biological damage by two main mechanisms: (1) Targeted effects (TE) due to direct traversals of cells by ionizing tracks. (2) Non-targeted effects (NTE) caused by release of signals from directly hit cells. The combination of these mechanisms generates non-linear dose response shapes, which need to be modeled quantitatively to predict health risks from space exploration. Here we used a TE + NTE model to analyze data on APC(1638N/+) mouse tumorigenesis induced by space-relevant doses of protons, 4He, 12C, 16O, 28Si or 56Fe ions, or γ rays. A customized weighted Negative Binomial distribution was used to describe the radiation type- and dose-dependent data variability. This approach allowed detailed quantification of dose–response shapes, NTE- and TE-related model parameters, and radiation quality metrics (relative biological effectiveness, RBE, and radiation effects ratio, RER, relative to γ rays) for each radiation type. Based on the modeled responses for each radiation type, we predicted the tumor yield for a Mars-mission-relevant mixture of these radiations, using the recently-developed incremental effect additivity (IEA) synergy theory. The proposed modeling approach can enhance current knowledge about quantification of space radiation quality effects, dose response shapes, and ultimately the health risks for astronauts.

Physio-biochemical Parameters of Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi L.) Induced by Gamma Rays and EMS

Background: Induced mutagenesis has proved as a crucial implement to create genetic variability for various essential traits. Trachyspermum ammi is one of the most important medicinal seed spices and its oil exhibits various pharmacological properties. Ajwain has been overlooked owing its narrow genetic base and little study has been performed to create genetic variations. Methods: Dry and healthy seeds of ajwain were treated with the different concentration of gamma rays (25,50,75 and 100Gy), EMS (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4%EMS) and different doses of combination treatments (25+0.1%, 50+0.2%, 75+0.3% and 100Gy+0.4%EMS). Among both the mutagens, gamma rays were found to be more effectual mutagens as compared to EMS. Result: The aim of the present study was to find out the mutagenic consequences of gamma rays, EMS and combination treatments on growth and physio-biochemical parameters of ajwain. Studies show that higher doses of both the mutagens caused significantly negative effect on the growth parameters whereas lower doses have positively influenced the parameters. Result shows lower doses of mutagens (25, 50Gy, 0.1%, 0.2%EMS and 25+0.1%, 50Gy+0.2%EMS) proved to be more effective as it caused less biological damage and therefore would be suitable for inducing the desirable mutations and improving the agronomic traits in ajwain.

Identification Escherichia coli on some fisheries commodities in the traditional market of Mamuju, West Sulawesi

Fish is a source of high-quality protein. Protein in fish has a complete composition and amount of essential amino acids. However, fish is a type of food that is susceptible to biological damage and is susceptible to microbial contamination so that it quickly decays. One of the most important microorganisms in spoilage of fish meat is Escherichia coli bacteria. This study aims to determine the presence of Escherichia coli bacteria in scad, tuna and skipjack tuna. The research was carried out from July to September 2021. The research method used was a sample survey method, sampling was carried out at 3 market locations, namely the TPI market and the tasiu market. Furthermore, the samples were analyzed at the Laboratory of Fish Quarantine and Quality Control Center (BKIPM) Mamuju, West Sulawesi. The results showed that the largest E.coli content was found in tuna 1 in the TPI market, which was 20 MPN/g, and the smallest E.coli content was < 3 MPN/g, namely scad fish 1 in the tasiu and TPI markets, tuna 1 and 2 in the TPI market, tuna 2 in TPI market.

Ultrasound Imaging in Dentistry: A Literature Overview

(1) Background: the frequency with which diagnostic tests are prescribed with exposure to ionizing radiation, a cause of biological damage, has been studied, and with much more attention, patients are subjected to these diagnostic tests for diagnosis and follow-up. This review aimed, given the recent developments of this technology, to evaluate the possible use of ultrasound in different branches of dentistry. The possibility of applying ionizing-radiation-free diagnostic exams in dentistry, overcoming the limits of this application, has led scientific research in this area to obtain interesting results that bode well for the future. (2) Methods: a search for articles on the application of ultrasounds in dentistry was performed using the PubMed electronic database. (3) Results: only 32 studies were included, and these clearly stated that this examination is widely usable and in great progress. (4) Conclusions: regarding the modern application techniques of this diagnostic test, it is essential to consider technological evolution as an objective to reduce the damage and side effects of necessary diagnostic tests. The use of ultrasound in dentistry can represent a valid radiation-free alternative, in certain contexts, to the other most used exams.

The Critical Level of Mangrove Ecosystem in Lariang Watershed Downstream, West Sulawesi-Indonesia

Critical land is a land whose soil condition has experienced or is in the process of physical, chemical, or biological damage which ultimately endangers hydrological, orological functions, and agricultural production. This research purposes were to determine the level of criticality of mangrove ecosystems, as the basis for sustainable management. Determination and delineation of the location were carried out photogrammetrically using Landsat 7 ETM + Band 542 imagery and maps, as well as terrestrial by direct measurement in the field. The species inventory and identification, tree/pole potency, saplings and seedlings used the line plot sampling and spot check methods. The results showed that the mangrove ecosystem area was of 577.07 ha, condition of dense (uncritical) vegetation reached an area of 138.16 ha (23.94%), followed by a rare (critical) condition of 286.63 ha (49.67%), while a damaged condition (very critical) 152.28 ha (26.39%). The dominant mangrove species were Sonneratia alba, Rhizophora apiculata, Avicenia marina, and Rhizophora mucronata. The main determinant of the mangrove ecosystems criticality was the mangrove cover area reduction as the non-mangrove land (ponds) impacts. To improve the quality of mangrove forest ecosystems, sustainable conservation is needed, one of which is the preparation of basic mangrove critical data and community empowerment. They are needed to restore, maintain and improve the function of forests and mangrove forest lands in order to increase their carrying capacity, productivity and their role in maintaining life support systems through rehabilitation programs.

Theoretical aspects of calculating the main design parameters of an electric bird repeller

The problem of scaring birds, which has turned into a problem of protecting economic objects from biological damage caused by birds, was born in ancient times and remains relevant to this day. Elevators, fishing and animal husbandry facilities, and other agricultural structures have become the favorite habitats of synanthropic birds. The first ones cause irreparable economic damage to agriculture, destroying, in particular, crops in fields and gardens. One of the solutions to this problem, which became the goal of this work, is to increase the efficiency of protecting agricultural facilities from synanthropic birds with the help of electric bird repellents. To carry out this research work, an experimental stand was designed and constructed in the laboratory of the State Agrarian University of the Northern Trans-Urals, which received a positive decision for a patent. With its help, an analytical dependence of the magnitude of the scaring pulse on the mass of the bird was obtained; a method for calculating the minimum and maximum distances of the scaring range for the blue pigeon was developed. Keywords: SYNANTHROPIC BIRDS, AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURES, ELECTRIC BIRD REPELLER, DESIGN PARAMETERS PULSE, ELECTRIC CURRENT, EFFICIENCY

Place and Role of Some Mass Bird Species in Biological Damage in the Fergana Valley of Uzbekistan

The article provides data on the place and role of some common bird species in the Fergana Valley in biological damage. The reasons for the occurrence of biological damage in birds are discussed, the nature and degree of biological damage caused by white storks, green bee-eaters, myna, Indian and field sparrows on fish farms, power grid enterprises, viticulture and grain crops (wheat and rice) are discussed. Building their huge nests on the poles of high-voltage power lines during the year, white storks make short circuits, which lead to an interruption in the power supply. In the post-nesting period, large flocks of white storks arrive at fish farms. One bird eats an average of 600–800 g of fish per day. During spring and autumn migrations, green bee-eaters gathering at beekeeping farms, one pair per day destroys about 350–400 worker bees. Mynas, after the chicks leave the nests, together with fledglings, flies into the vineyards and, on average, damage 18.5% of the grape harvest. Field and Indian sparrows consume an average of 16.95% of the crop during the milky-wax ripeness of wheat. In rice fields during autumn migrations, the harm from sparrows is 2.1–13.4%. The article also provides data on some of the repellents used in preventing and reducing bio-damage caused by birds, discusses their effectiveness.