Characterization of the effects of C-terminal pro-sequence on self-inactivation of Stereum purpureum endopolygalacturonase I.

Endpolygalacturonase I from Stereum purpureum has been identified as a causative substance for the silver-leaf disease in apples. It possesses a unique pro-sequence in the C-terminal region that lacks endpolygalacturonases from any other origin. In this study, we analyzed and compared enzymatic characteristics between pro-form (pro-endoPG I) and mature form processed by V8 protease (endoPG I) and described the suppression activity of the pro-sequence.

Continuous monitoring of ammonia removal activity and observation of morphology of microbial complexes in a microdevice.

Continuous monitoring of ammonia removal by microbial complexes and observation of their morphology were carried out using a microdevice. Consumption of NH(4)(+) ions by active sludge could clearly be recorded over 48 h. Aggregation of the sludge could be observed in parallel by using confocal reflection microscopy.

Monitoring biofilm development in a microfluidic device using modified confocal reflection microscopy.

The feasibility of a method to monitor biofilm development non-destructively in a microfluidic device was addressed. Here, we report that biofilm growth could be non-destructively monitored by an image analysis technique based on modification of confocal reflection microscopy.

Bacterial growth monitoring in a microfluidic device by confocal reflection microscopy.

The feasibility of a method to nondestructively measure planktonic bacterial growth in a microfluidic device was addressed. Here, we report that the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a microfluidic device could be measured by a three-dimensional image analysis technique based on confocal reflection microscopy in a time-course.