Spatial profiling of microbial communities by sequential FISH with error-robust encoding

Spatial analysis of microbiomes at single cell resolution with high multiplexity and accuracy has remained challenging. Here we present spatial profiling of a microbiome using sequential error-robust fluorescence in situ hybridization (SEER-FISH), a highly multiplexed and accurate imaging method that allows mapping of microbial communities at micron-scale. We show that multiplexity of RNA profiling in microbiomes can be increased significantly by sequential rounds of probe hybridization and dissociation. Combined with error-correction strategies, we demonstrate that SEER-FISH enables accurate taxonomic identification in complex microbial communities. Using microbial communities composed of diverse bacterial taxa isolated from plant rhizospheres, we show that SEER-FISH can quantify the abundance of each taxon and map microbial biogeography on roots. SEER-FISH provides an unprecedented method for profiling the spatial ecology of complex microbial communities in situ.

Spatial profiling of microbial communities by sequential FISH with error-robust encoding

Spatial analysis of microbiomes at single cell resolution with high multiplexity and accuracy has remained challenging. Here we present spatial profiling of a microbiome using sequential error-robust fluorescence in situ hybridization (SEER-FISH), a highly multiplexed and accurate imaging method that allows mapping of microbial communities at micron-scale. We show that multiplexity of RNA profiling in microbiomes can be increased significantly by sequential rounds of probe hybridization and dissociation. Combined with error-correction strategies, we demonstrate that SEER-FISH enables accurate taxonomic identification in complex microbial communities. Using microbial communities composed of diverse bacterial taxa isolated from plant rhizospheres, we show that SEER-FISH can quantify the abundance of each taxon and map microbial biogeography on roots. SEER-FISH should enable accurate spatial profiling of the ecology and function of complex microbial communities.

Halochromic optical nose for assessment of spoilage of packed seer fish

Purpose The present study aims to describe the development of halochromic thin film sensors using mixed indicator dyes for monitoring the spoilage of packed seer fish. Design/methodology/approach Thin film was prepared using renewable polysaccharide incorporated with mixed indicator dyes. The thin film was characterized using ultraviolet visible and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy. The characteristics of the thin film were studied by analyzing the CIELAB and Red Green Blue values and biodegradability. The thin films were evaluated for real-time monitoring of the spoilage of packed seer fish. Findings The thin film sensors were found to exhibit excellent halochromism. The color changes were visible and distinguishable. The sensors responded efficiently for real-time monitoring of spoilage of fish by showing unique color changes. Originality/value This study provides promising mixed indicator that exhibits different colors in the alkaline pH. Also the present study reveals a potential combination of materials for preparation of halochromic sensors that can be used for monitoring the spoilage of packed seer fish in real time.

Characterization of Nanohydroxyapatite isolated from Seer Fish Bones and Waste Scales and its Applications in Lead Removal

Hydroxyapatite, (HA), Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, is recognized as a biomaterial and extensively used for bone implant because of its structural and chemical similarity with mineral components of enamel and human bone. The elements of HA are largely composed of calcium and phosphorus molar ratio of 1.67 and is capable of promoting bone in-growth into prosthetic implant. Huge amounts of by-product waste generated from fish processing industry and market generated an undesirable environmental impact. In this perspective, the present study focused on the isolation and characterization of nanohydroxyapatite (nHA) from bones and waste scales of seer fish. Tissue removal process was carried out by boiling bones and scales at 100°C for 4-5 hours and further boiling with acetone and sodium hydroxide. nHA was isolated by alkaline hydrolysis treatment. The isolated nHA was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) – Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). FT-IR spectrum disclosed the presence of functional groups of HA. SEM-EDS revealed the size shape and elemental composition of the isolated nHA. Further, the application of this isolated nHA in removal of lead was also investigated. At elevated pH levels, nHA adsorbed the lead ions effectively with reduction in lead ions greater than 95%. These results suggest that nHA isolated from bones and waste scales of seer fish can be potentially used for waste water treatment.

Gelatin Based Edible Coating: Preservation Technique for Seer (Scomberomorus guttatus) Fish Slices

The aim of this work is to examine the performance of gelatin based edible coating in preserving the seer fish slices. A composite edible coating solution was prepared with three different concentrations of gelatin, chitosan and vinegar. Coating experiments were performed in a laboratory scale edible coating tank which was fabricated for this purpose. The seer fish slices (13.65±2.50 mm thick and 43.89± 6.82 g weight) were subjected to coating for three different soaking times (min). While coating performance of the solution was assessed through coating uptake (%), texture quality of the seer fish slices was assessed through weight loss (%) and microbial quality was assessed through Total Plate Count (CFU/g). Experiment was designed using Box - Behnken Design (BBD). The application of edible coating treatment to seer fish slices resulted in improvement of overall keeping quality of the seer fish slices (9 days) against the control (3 days) when stored under low temperature (7±1oC).