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This study investigated the effects of the protein-free galactomannan obtained from Delonix regia seeds (GM-DR) in an experimental osteoarthritis (OA) model. GM-DR was obtained from water-homogenized endosperms by collection of the supernatant and precipitation with ethanol. The remaining proteins in the galactomannan were removed by alkaline hydrolysis. Weight average molar mass (Mw) of the galactomannan was estimated in 5.8 × 105 g mol−1, presenting mannose:galactose ratio of 2.39:1. Rats received sodium monoiodoacetate (OA groups, 1 mg/25 μL) or saline (sham group) in the right tibio-tarsal joint. GM-DR (30–300 μg) was administered by intra-articular route at days 14 and 21 after OA induction. Hypernociception was evaluated daily by the measurement of the mechanical threshold required to cause joint flexion and paw withdrawal reflex. The 56-day animal groups were euthanized for joint histopahological analysis using the OARSI score system. Lower doses of GM-DR (30 and 100 μg) promoted antinociception from day 15 until the endpoint at day 56. Joint damage was reduced by GM-DR administration (100 μg) in OA-subjected animals, compared to the vehicle-treated OA group (5.9 ± 1.8 vs 19.0 ± 1.8, respectively, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Both antinociception and damage reduction suggest that Delonix regia galactomannan is a promising approach for osteoarthritis therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundThe relationship between fungal culture (FC) positivity and airway inflammation in CF is largely unknown. Identifying the clinical significance of filamentous fungi in CF using both clinical parameters and biomarkers may change our antimicrobial therapeutic strategies.ObjectivesTo investigate the clinical characteristics and airway biomarker profile in relation to the detection of filamentous fungi in respiratory samples obtained from CF patients.MethodsA prospective cohort study over 24 months, including children and adults with CF. Participants provided sputum and/or bronchoalveolar lavage samples, which underwent processing for bacterial and fungal culture, leukocyte differential cell count and biomarker analysis for neutrophil elastase (NE), interleukin-8 (IL-8), galactomannan and tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2 (TNF-R2). We performed FC using neat sputum plugs, an approach shown to be more sensitive compared to routine laboratory testing.ResultsSixty-one patients provided 76 respiratory samples (72 sputum and 4 BAL). Median age was 17 years (range 6 months–59 years). FC positivity was noted in 49% of the cohort. FC positivity was greater during pulmonary exacerbation compared to the stable state (67 versus 50%). Participants aged 5–30 years had a lower FEV1 within the FC positive group. A significant association between FC positivity and non-tuberculosis mycobacterial (NTM) culture was observed on non-parametric testing (p = 0.022) and regression analysis (p = 0.007). Exposure to indoor mold was a predictor for FC positivity (p = 0.047). There was a trend towards increased lung clearance index (LCI), bronchiectasis and intravenous antibiotic use in the FC positive group. There was no significant difference in biomarkers between FC positive and negative patients.ConclusionAspergillus. fumigatus is the commonest filamentous fungi cultured from CF airways. We found no difference in the airway biomarker profile between FC positive and negative patients. The role of galactomannan and TNFR2 as fungal specific biomarkers in CF remains uncertain. FC positivity is associated with a lower FEV1 in younger patients, a lower LCI, NTM positivity, bronchiectasis, and intravenous antibiotic exposure. Larger trials are needed to determine the role of galactomannan and TNF-R2 as potential fungal biomarkers in CF.

An integrated process to increase the yield of incomplete degradation products of galactomannan (GalM) especially for galactomanno-oligosaccharides (GalMOS) was suggested. Trichoderma reesei employed Avicel or GalMOS as a carbon source to produce β-mannanase or α-galactosidase independently, with a result of 3.78 ± 0.12 U/mL of β-mannanase activity and 2.45 ± 0.06 U/mL of α-galactosidase activity which were obtained, respectively. GalM in Sesbania seed was hydrolyzed simultaneously by a mixture of crude enzyme with β-mannanase and α-galactosidase at a dosage of 20 U/g GalM and 15 U/g GalM, respectively; the yields of incomplete degradation products of GalM (IDP-GalM) and GalMOS were 78.84% ± 3.14% and 30.94% ± 0.38%, respectively, which was beneficial to improve the biological activity of the incomplete degradation products. The role of α-galactosidase addition in mixture enzymes is to remove the galactose substituents from mannan backbone of GalM and alleviate the steric hindrance of β-mannanase hydrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) is facilitated by detection of galactomannan (GM) in serum and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Although accurate, false positive results have been reported with these tests in numerous contexts. We report for the first time the occurrence of false positive GM ELISA due to nocardiosis, initially in a clinical sample of BALF from a patient with pulmonary nocardiosis, and subsequently corroborated by in vitro reactivity of 26% of tested isolates. Since patients at risk for IA are also at risk for nocardiosis, this finding has important clinical implications. Lay Summary Early diagnosis of aspergillosis has been facilitated by the routine use of antibody-based detection of galactomannan in various bodily fluids. We report for the first time the occurrence of false positive results of this assay in the context of nocardiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive fungal infections (IFI) cause considerable morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients. Serum biomarkers such as 1,3-beta-D glucan (BDG) and galactomannan (GM) have been evaluated for the IFI diagnosis. However, most evidence regarding their utility is derived from studies in adult oncology patients. This systematic review aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of BDG and GM individually or in combination for diagnosing IFI in pediatric patients. PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched until March 2019 for diagnostic studies evaluating both serum GM and BDG for diagnosing pediatric IFI. The pooled diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), specificity and sensitivity were computed. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) were used for summarizing overall assay performance. Six studies were included in the meta-analysis. The summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, pooled DOR, AUC of the GM assay for proven or probable IFI were 0.74, 0.76, 13.25, and 0.845. The summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, pooled DOR, AUC of the BDG assay were 0.70, 0.69, 4.3, and 0.722. The combined predictive ability of both tests was reported in two studies (sensitivity: 0.67, specificity: 0.877). Four studies were performed in hematology-oncology patients, while two were retrospective studies from pediatric intensive care units (ICUs). In the subgroup of hematology-oncology patients, DOR of BDG remained similar at 4.25 but increased to 40.28 for GM. We conclude that GM and BDG have a modest performance for identifying IFI in pediatric patients. GM has a better accuracy over BDG. Combining both improves the specificity at the cost of sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: The relationship between fungal culture (FC) positivity and airway inflammation in CF is largely unknown. Identifying the clinical significance of filamentous fungi in CF using both clinical parameters and biomarkers may change our antimicrobial therapeutic strategies. Objectives: To investigate the clinical characteristics and airway biomarker profile in relation to the detection of filamentous fungi in respiratory samples obtained from CF patients. Methods: A prospective cohort study over 24 months, including children and adults with CF. Participants provided sputum and/or bronchoalveolar lavage samples, which underwent processing for bacterial and fungal culture, leukocyte differential cell count and biomarker analysis for neutrophil elastase (NE), interleukin-8 (IL-8), galactomannan and tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2 (TNF-R2). We performed FC using neat sputum plugs, an approach shown to be more sensitive compared to routine laboratory testing. Results: Sixty-one patients provided 76 respiratory samples (72 sputum and 4 BAL). Median age was 17 years (range 6 months–59 years). FC positivity was noted in 49% of the cohort. FC positivity was greater during pulmonary exacerbation compared to the stable state (67 versus 50%). Participants aged 5–30 years had a lower FEV1 within the FC positive group. A significant association between FC positivity and non-tuberculosis mycobacterial (NTM) culture was observed on non-parametric testing (p = 0.022) and regression analysis (p = 0.007). Exposure to indoor mold was a predictor for FC positivity (p = 0.047). There was a trend towards increased lung clearance index (LCI), bronchiectasis and intravenous antibiotic use in the FC positive group. There was no significant difference in biomarkers between FC positive and negative patients. Conclusion: Aspergillus. fumigatus is the commonest filamentous fungi cultured from CF airways. We found no difference in the airway biomarker profile between FC positive and negative patients. The role of galactomannan and TNFR2 as fungal specific biomarkers in CF remains uncertain. FC positivity is associated with a lower FEV1 in younger patients, a lower LCI, NTM positivity, bronchiectasis, and intravenous antibiotic exposure. Larger trials are needed to determine the role of galactomannan and TNF-R2 as potential fungal biomarkers in CF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aminated poly(N -isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAm-NH 2) was grafted onto oxidized galactomannan polysaccharide extracted from Delonix regia (OXGM) via Schiff base reaction by a simple, rapid synthetic route, deprived of the use of organic solvents. Grafting was confirmed by FTIR and 1H NMR and the self-organizing ability of the obtained nanoparticle copolymers was investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The minimum concentration required for self-organization (CAC) at 25 °C was higher than at 50 °C. Lower critical solution temperature (LCST) was in the range 34–40 °C, depending on both inserted PNIPAm-NH 2 molar mass and on the presence of reduced imine bond. Synthesized copolymers are promising candidates for drug delivery as they show good cell viability, particle size around 250 nm and transition temperature closer to that of human body. Reaction success points out to the possibility of use free aldehyde groups of oxidized polysaccharide, not used in the copolymerization, to form a pro-drug with substances that possess NH 2 groups in their structure, such as doxorubicin. Unlabelled Image • New synthesis of galactomannan/PNIPAm copolymers based on Schiff base reaction • Copolymers have non-cytotoxicity. • Transition temperature closer to human body temperature • Synthesized copolymers are promising candidates for drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanovectors advocate extensive scientific advancement for feeding safe and efficient pharmaceutical delivery systems. Embraced as both organic and inorganic vectors, these nanovectors can be designed and engineered with various layers of complexity to achieve therapeutic targeting and ensuring effective pharmacotherapy for disease management. A substantial challenge that the most therapeutic agents face is an inability to penetrate effectively to the target site. Chemical methods offer a solution to allow safe, controlled release and specific delivery of therapeutic molecules to the target tissue. Chemical targeting of vectors to diseased tissues or macrophages can utilize molecular recognition units for decorating the surface of particles or molecular units responsive to diseased microenvironments or remote stimuli. This review aims to provide insights into the sophisticated chemical vectors designing and characterization that can be used as carriers for implication in nanotechnology. Further, desired characteristic properties of nanovectors essential for therapeutic delivery have been stressed in the communication. Additionally, the current trends and novel concepts for mannose receptor macrophage-specific drug or gene or antigen targeting that use conjugation or encapsulation pathways for binding targeting moieties have been addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galactomannans are polysaccharides obtained from legume seed extraction. They present a chemical structure consisting of D-mannose chains linked by glycosidic bonds and galactose branches. The main focus lies in their use as thickeners in the food industry, aimed at improving the dielectric properties of food during heating processes within the radiofrequency and microwave ranges. In this work, the prepared galactomannan samples were electrically analyzed through impedance spectroscopy, which is a powerful physical technique. From the experimental measurements, the dielectric permittivity and loss tangent of the galactomannan solutions were analyzed and the electrical modulus formalism was used to study the dielectric relaxations. Crude galactomannans exhibited higher values of permittivity, conductivity, and losses compared to purified galactomannans. Increasing ethanol concentration in galactomannan purification causes an increase in the permittivity and conductivity of galactomannan solutions. In a 1% solution, at 1 kHz, the permittivity increased from 378.56 to 538.09, while in the 2% solution, this increase was from 656.22 to 1103.24. Regarding the conductivity, at the same frequency, the increase was from 1.6 × 10 -3 to 3.3 × 10 -3 Ω -1 m -1 and from 2.9 × 10 -3 to 5.5 × 10 -3 Ω -1 m -1 , respectively. The rise of the ethanol concentration in galactomannan purification led to a decrease in the relaxation time, from 448.56 to 159.15 μs and from 224.81 to 89.50 μs in the solution with 1 and 2%, respectively. The results suggest that galactomannan from Adenanthera pavonina L. has potential for use in the food industry.

Beta-mannans are insoluble plant polysaccharides with beta-1,4-linked mannose as the backbone. We used three forms of this polysaccharide, namely, pure mannan, glucomannan, and galactomannan, to enrich haloarchaea, which have the ability to utilize mannans for growth. Four mannan-utilizing strains obtained in pure cultures were closely related to each other on the level of the same species. Furthermore, another strain selected from the same habitats with a soluble beta-1,4-glucan (xyloglucan) was also able to grow with mannan. The phylogenomic analysis placed the isolates into a separate lineage of the new genus level within the family Natrialbaceae of the class Halobacteria . The strains are moderate alkaliphiles, extremely halophilic, and aerobic saccharolytics. In addition to the three beta-mannan forms, they can also grow with cellulose, xylan, and xyloglucan. Functional genome analysis of two representative strains demonstrated the presence of several genes coding for extracellular endo-beta-1,4-mannanase from the GH5&#95;7 and 5&#95;8 subfamilies and the GH26 family of glycosyl hydrolases. Furthermore, a large spectrum of genes encoding other glycoside hydrolases that were potentially involved in the hydrolysis of cellulose and xylan were also identified in the genomes. A comparative genomics analysis also showed the presence of similar endo-beta-1,4-mannanase homologs in the cellulotrophic genera Natronobiforma and Halococcoides . Based on the unique physiological properties and the results of phylogenomic analysis, the novel mannan-utilizing halolarchaea are proposed to be classified into a new genus and species Natronoglomus mannanivorans gen. nov., sp. nov. with the type strain AArc-m2/3/4 (=JCM 34861=UQM 41565)., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. The author(s) declared that they were an editorial board member of Frontiers, at the time of submission. This had no impact on the peer review process and the final decision., (Copyright © 2024 Sorokin, Elcheninov, Bale, Sinninghe Damsté and Kublanov.)

We studied patients diagnosed with aspergillosis based on positive bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) Aspergillus galactomannan (GM) who had follow-up BAL sampling within 180 days. GM trend and clinical outcome were concordant in only 60% (30/50). While useful for the initial diagnosis, BAL GM trending does not always correlate with treatment response., Competing Interests: Potential conflicts of interest. D.Z.F. has received research funding from Scynexis. P.V. has received research funding from Cidara, Scynexis, F2G, and Ansun and serves as a consultant for AbbVie and Scynexis (all fees paid to Mayo Clinic). P.V. received honoraria from the Merck Manuals and Current Fungal Infection Reports. All other authors report no potential conflicts., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Infectious Diseases Society of America.)

Polysaccharides are essential compounds that contribute to the biological activities of mushrooms. Two new galactomannans (Galactomannan I and II) were isolated from R. luteolus and G. adspersum. Their structures were characterized using FT-IR, 1D, and 2D-NMR techniques. Both isolated galactomannans I and II mainly include D-mannose and D-galactose in the molar percentages of 0.81:1.0 and 1:1.4, respectively. The GPC calculation demonstrated that the molecular weights are about 5240 and 5090 Da, respectively. Their structures comprise of β-(1,4)-mannose (Man) backbone units with α-(1,6)-galactose (Gal) single unit as a side group. The anticholinesterase activity of galactomannans was tested against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), spectrophotometrically. Antioxidant activity was also measured by six assays (ABTS•+, DPPH•, O 2 •−, β-carotene-linoleic acid, metal chelating, and CUPRAC assays). Galactomannan II indicated close inhibitory activity to galantamine against AChE (61.04 ± 0.45%) and BChE (59.70 ± 1.15%) at 50 μg/mL concentration. Nevertheless, both galactomannans showed low antioxidant activity in all tests. This study reveals that mainly, Galactomannan II could be used as a new natural promising anticholinesterase agent. • Two new galactomannans were isolated from mushroom species. • Galactomannans were characterized by FT-IR, 1D and 2D NMR, MS analysis. • Galactomannans mainly included D-mannose and D-galactose. • Antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities of galactomannans were determined. • Galactomannan II indicated strong anticholinesterase activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galactomannan extracted from Cassia fistula seed endosperm present little data related to the its structural characterization. This study reports the chemical characterization of the galactomannan from Cassia fistula (CF) and their oxidized derivatives. The extracted CF presented a yield of 26.5% (w/w) and the intrinsic viscosity [η] was 9.73 dL/g. 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) confirmed that the polysaccharide has a backbone of 4-linked β-D-mannose units, and contains galactose units as pending groups. These galactose units are linked to the central core through a (1→6) linkage and the galactomannan presented Man/Gal ratio of 3.1/1. The galactomannan from Cassia fistula presents low cytotoxicity in Vero cells with a CC 50 > 1000 μg/ml. The properties of CF resemble other commercially important galactomannans such as Locust bean gum. Three oxidized derivatives of CF were produced by periodate oxidation, which were carefully characterized by different structural techniques. It was observed that as the degree of oxidation increased, there was an increase in the Man/Gal ratio and a reduction in molar mass and viscosity. The polialdehyde produced may be explored as a versality material to react with amine group of the protein and amined polysaccharide to produce biomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Commonly, the application of radiological and clinical criteria and the determination of galactomannan (GM) in respiratory samples are used as a diagnostic tool for the detection of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Materials/methods: In this study, two lateral flow assays, OLM Aspergillus lateral flow device (LFD) and IMMY sōna Aspergillus Galactomannan lateral flow assay (LFA), were evaluated at two tertiary hospitals in Germany. A total of 200 bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples from patients with suspicion of IPA were analysed retrospectively. LFD and LFA were evaluated against four different criteria: Blot, EORTC/MSG, Schauwvlieghe and extended Blot criteria and additionally against GM. Results: The evaluation of four algorithms for the diagnosis of IPA showed that there exist good diagnostic tools to rule out an IPA even before results of Aspergillus culture are available. Sensitivities and negative predictive values are generally higher for the LFA than for the LFD in all four criteria. Specificity and positive predictive values varied depending on the classification criteria. The total agreement between the GM and the LFA cube reader (cut‐off = 1) was 84%. The correlation between the GM and LFA was calculated with r = 0.8. Conclusion: The here presented data indicate that a negative LFA result in BAL fluid can reliable rule out an IPA in a heterogeneous group of ICU patients based on the original Blot criteria. LFA seems to be a promising immunochromatographic test exhibiting a good agreement with positive GM values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is crucial to prevent lethal disease in immunocompromized hosts. So far, lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) and bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI) levels have not been evaluated as biomarkers for IPA. IL-8, previously introduced as a biomarker for IPA, was also included in this study. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of IPA patients and control patients with non-infectious lung disease was collected according to clinical indications. Measurements in BALF displayed significantly higher levels of LBP (p < 0.0001), BPI (p = 0.0002) and IL-8 (p < 0.0001) in IPA compared to control patients. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed higher AUC for LBP (0.98, 95% CI 0.95-1.00) than BPI (0.84, 95% CI 0.70-0.97; p = 0.0301). Although not significantly different, AUC of IL-8 (0.93, 95% CI 0.85-1.00) also tended to be higher than AUC for BPI (p = 0.0624). When the subgroup of non-hematological patients was analyzed, test performance of LBP (AUC 0.99, 95% CI 0.97-1.00), BPI (AUC 0.97, 95% CI 0.91-1.00) and IL-8 (AUC 0.96, 95% CI: 0.90-1.00) converged. In conclusion, LBP and--to a lesser extend--BPI displayed high AUCs that were comparable to those of IL-8 for diagnosis of IPA in BALF. Further investigations are worthwhile, especially in non-hematological patients in whom sensitive biomarkers for IPA are lacking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several newly developed biomarker tests for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) have been developed, including the IMMY Aspergillus galactomannan lateral flow assay (Aspergillus GM-LFA) evaluated in this study. Methods: Twenty patients with proven/probable IPA (EORTC/MSGERC criteria) were matched by age and underlying disease with 20 patients without IPA. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was analyzed in duplicate using the Aspergillus GM-LFA. Results were read visually by two blinded observers, and the optical density index (ODI) was obtained digitally with a cube reader. Results: Using a cutoff of ≥0.5 ODI, the Aspergillus GM-LFA had a sensitivity of 40%, specificity of 80%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 67% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 57%. When the cutoff was increased to ≥1.0 ODI, sensitivity remained at 40%, specificity rose to 95%, PPV was 89%, and NPV was 61%. Excellent agreement was found when duplicate samples were read either visually (κ = 1) or with the cube reader (κ = 0.89). Correlation of results obtained by visual inspection and those obtained using the cube reader was excellent (κ = 0.82). Conclusion: The Aspergillus GM-LFA had poor sensitivity but excellent specificity for proven/probable IPA in BALF. The assay was easy to interpret, and there was high concordance between results obtained visually and with a cube reader. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The galactomannan (GM) that is produced by the human fungal pathogenAspergillus fumigatus is an emblematic biomarker in medical mycology. The GM is composed of two monosaccharides: mannose and galactofuranose. The furanic configuration of galactose residues, absent in mammals, is responsible for the antigenicity of the GM and has favoured the development of ELISA tests to diagnose aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients. The GM that is produced by A. fumigatus is a unique fungal polysaccharide containing a tetramannoside repeat unit and having three different forms: (i) membrane bound through a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor, (ii) covalently linked to β-1,3-glucans in the cell wall, or (iii) released in the culture medium as a free polymer. Recent studies have revealed the crucial role of the GM during vegetative and polarized fungal growth. This review highlights these recent data on its biosynthetic pathway and its biological functions during the saprophytic and pathogenic life of this opportunistic human fungal pathogen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) relies mainly on computed tomography imaging and testing for fungal biomarkers such as galactomannan (GM). We compared an established ELISA for the detection of GM with a turbidimetric assay for detection of the panfungal biomarker β-D-glucan (BDG) for early diagnosis of IA. A total of 226 serum specimens from 47 proven and seven probable IA cases were analysed. Sensitivity was calculated for samples obtained closest to the day of IA-diagnosis (d0). Additional analyses were performed by including samples obtained during the presumed course of disease. Most IA cases involved the respiratory system (63%), and Aspergillus fumigatus was the most frequently isolated species (59%). For proven cases, sensitivity of BDG/GM analysis was 57%/40%. Including all samples dating from -6 to +1 weeks from d0 increased sensitivities to 74%/51%. Sensitivity of BDG testing was as high as or higher than GM testing for all subgroups and time intervals analysed. BDG testing was less specific (90-93%) than GM testing (99-100%). Combining BDG and GM testing resulted in sensitivity/specificity of 70%/91%. Often, BDG testing was positive before GM testing. Our study backs the use of BDG for diagnosis of suspected IA. We suggest combining BDG and GM to improve the overall sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study is isolation of galactomannan from plant materials and investigation of their physical and chemical properties. Polysaccharides generally consisting of galactomannan were isolated and purified from galactomannans from the seeds of the plants Sophora japonica and Gleditsia triacanthos by cold and hot extraction methods. Galactose and mannose contents of the galactomannans isolated were quantitatively characterized and physical and chemical properties of the polysaccharides were studied. In addition, polysaccharides isolated were enzymatic hydrolyzed and changes in the monosaccharide composition in the hydrolysis process were studied. The characteristic viscosities of the initial and hydrolyzed galactomannans were 4.85–3.80 dL/g, respectively. Molecular weights of the galactomannans, after treatment with the enzyme, changed in a range of 55 600–26 200 Da. Studies with 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy methods showed decreases in galactoside content of the hydrolyzed galactomannans, indicating the primary course of hydrolysis occurs by the side chain of the macromolecule. Increase in duration of enzymatic hydrolysis more than 24 h led to the formation of poly-mannans with a minor content of galactose units. The data can serve to improve isolation and preparation of galactomannan based materials for biomedical purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intracellular bacterial infections cause diseases that are hard to treat because of the anatomical barriers before the antibiotic reaches the target site and small intestine for absorption. Thus, the modulated release of the antibiotic with higher stability and drug retention needs to be achieved. Encapsulation using polymers retains the stability of drugs from the harsh environment of the stomach and delivers a drug to its intended site of release. This study aims to assess the drug release property and stability of galactomannan and alginate double coat encapsulation of SMX-TMP. The encapsulation of SMX-TMP using biopolymers was done through the extrusion method. The stability of the capsule was subjected to in vitro gastrointestinal simulation analysis and was analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to confirm the successful encapsulation and its surface morphology. The delivery of the active drug, SMX-TMP, from the capsule was observed without significant degradation in the simulated gastric environment and disintegrates at the fasted state (pH 8) of the simulated intestinal environment, which is the target site of drug release. In vitro stability test validates the protection of SMX-TMP (encapsulated) from the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) conditions. The fingerprint of drug and encapsulating material was found to be present after drug encapsulation and intestinal disintegration. Morphological micrographs showed that the capsules were spherical that measures approximately 2.7 mm; ridges at the surface of the microcapsules were present for quick hydration and disintegration. This study reports the potential of galactomannan and alginate as candidates for encapsulating antibiotics for modulated and targeted drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of a bio-sourced polymer as a corrosion inhibitor against iron corrosion in a 1 M HCl solution. Galactomannan was obtained from the carob plant (Ceratonia Siliqua L) and its structure was verified by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and elemental analysis. The inhibitor concentration effects and immersion time on the resistance of the iron surface against corrosion are evaluated using impedance and polarization electrochemical measurements, UV-visible analysis and theoretical study. The results show that the galactomannan is a mixed type inhibitor act by physisorption and chemisorption on the metal surface. In addition, the efficiency of these compounds increases with increasing the concentration of the inhibitor and reaches a value of 87.72% at a concentration of 1 g/l. The electrode surface was characterized by SEM surface analysis method coupled with EDS.

ABSTRACT The pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus contains galactomannans localized on the surface layer of its cell walls, which are involved in various biological processes. Galactomannans comprise α-(1→2)-/α-(1→6)-mannan and β-(1→5)-/β-(1→6)-galactofuranosyl chains. We previously revealed that GfsA is a β-galactofuranoside β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyltransferase involved in the biosynthesis of β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl chains. In this study, we clarified the biosynthesis of β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl chains in A. fumigatus. Two paralogs exist within A. fumigatus: GfsB and GfsC. We show that GfsB and GfsC, in addition to GfsA, are β-galactofuranoside β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyltransferases by biochemical and genetic analyses. GfsA, GfsB, and GfsC can synthesize β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl oligomers at up to lengths of 7, 3, and 5 galactofuranoses within an established in vitro highly efficient assay of galactofuranosyltransferase activity. Structural analyses of galactomannans extracted from ΔgfsB, ΔgfsC, ΔgfsAC, and ΔgfsABC strains revealed that GfsA and GfsC synthesized all β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl residues of fungal-type and O-mannose-type galactomannans and that GfsB exhibited limited function in A. fumigatus. The loss of β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl residues decreased the hyphal growth rate and conidium formation ability and increased the abnormal hyphal branching structure and cell surface hydrophobicity, but this loss is dispensable for sensitivity to antifungal agents and virulence toward immunocompromised mice. IMPORTANCE β-(1→5)-Galactofuranosyl residues are widely distributed in the subphylum Pezizomycotina of the phylum Ascomycota. Pezizomycotina includes many plant and animal pathogens. Although the structure of β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl residues of galactomannans in filamentous fungi was discovered long ago, it remains unclear which enzyme is responsible for biosynthesis of this glycan. Fungal cell wall formation processes are complicated, and information concerning glycosyltransferases is essential for understanding them. In this study, we showed that GfsA and GfsC are responsible for the biosynthesis of all β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl residues of fungal-type and O-mannose-type galactomannans. The data presented here indicate that β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl residues are involved in cell growth, conidiation, polarity, and cell surface hydrophobicity. Our new understanding of β-(1→5)-galactofuranosyl residue biosynthesis provides important novel insights into the formation of the complex cell wall structure and the virulence of the members of the subphylum Pezizomycotina.

Diagnosis of pulmonary aspergillosis (PA), a fungal disease caused by Aspergillus species, is challenging since symptoms are unspecific. The galactomannan (antigen secreted by Aspergillus species) test in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid is a valuable diagnostic adjunct test in the diagnosis of PA. However, BAL collection is invasive and may not be suitable to severely ill patients. Sputum is non-invasive, easily collected, and lung specific and may be an alternative to BAL. The aim of this research was to retrospectively evaluate the utility of sputum galactomannan in the diagnosis of pulmonary aspergillosis in patients with chronic respiratory diseases and to estimate the sputum galactomannan cut-off value. We collected data from patients with clinical suspicion of pulmonary aspergillosis who had sputum galactomannan, culture, and Aspergillus IgG tests performed within four weeks. Sputum galactomannan was validated against the clinical diagnosis of aspergillosis, Aspergillus culture, and Aspergillus IgG tests. In total, 218 patients met inclusion criteria. Overall, sputum GM showed satisfactory agreement with clinical diagnosis of aspergillosis, Aspergillus culture, and Aspergillus IgG. When a receiver operating characteristic curve was constructed using Aspergillus culture/IgG and clinical diagnosis, the same cut-off (CO) of 0.71 (AUC: 0.83; CI: 0.69–0.86, p < 0.001) was determined. Against clinical diagnosis, sputum GM gave sensitivity and specificity of 70% and 71%, respectively. Sensitivity of 77% and specificity of 78% were found when sputum GM was evaluated against Aspergillus culture/IgG. In conclusion, this study showed that sputum galactomannan antigen testing has utility in the diagnosis of chronic forms of pulmonary aspergillosis and further prospective validation is indicated.

In this paper, the physical properties of a soluble non-starch polysaccharide (EGSP) from the endosperm of Gleditsia japonica var. delavayi seeds, and its effects on starch digestibility, glucose diffusion and glycemic index (GI) were investigated. EGSP has good acid-base and thermal stability and can form high viscosity solutions at low concentrations. Its real density (RD), solubility and lowest-gelled-concentration (LGC) are 1.33 ± 0.03 g/mL, 1.24 ± 0.15 g/100 mL and 20 g/L. Besides, EGSP also had certain oil and glucose adsorption properties. In vitro experiments showed that EGSP could effectively reduce the starch digestibility and glucose diffusion rate, which might be due to its high viscosity and the abilities of hindering starch gelation. Further in vivo experiments confirmed that EGSP can reduce the GI of starchy foods and inhibit the surge of postprandial blood glucose level.

Abstract Background Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) has been increasingly reported in patients with underlying respiratory diseases (URD). Early diagnosis of IPA is crucial for mortality reduction and improved prognosis, yet remains difficult. Existing diagnostic tools for IPA largely rely on the detection of biomarkers based on serum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), both of which have their limitations. The use of sputum sample is non-invasive, and Aspergillus detection is feasible; however, the usefulness of sputum biomarkers for the diagnosis of IPA, especially in patients with URD, has not been systematically studied. Methods This is a prospective diagnostic trial. At least 118 participants will be recruited from respiratory wards and intensive care units. IPA is defined according to the EORTC/MSG criteria modified for patients with URD. Induced sputum and blood will be collected, and BALF will be obtained by bronchoscopy. Sputum biomarkers, including galactomannan, Aspergillus DNA, triacetylfusarinine and bis(methylthio)gliotoxin will be determined, and the presence of a JF5 antigen will be examined with a lateral fluid device. The sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value and diagnostic odds ratio will be computed for different biomarkers and compared using the McNemar χ2 test. Receiver operating characteristic analyses will be performed, and the cut-off values will be established. Participants will receive follow-up evaluations at 3 months and 6 months after recruitment. The difference in hospital stay and survival will be analysed, and the relationships between the levels of biomarkers and hospital stay and survival will be analysed via regression models. Discussion We have developed and verified the feasibility of Aspergillus-related biomarker assays for sputum. The study findings will contribute to a novel look at the diagnostic performance of sputum biomarkers in IPA and provide important insight into the improvement of the early diagnosis of IPA, particularly in patients with URD. Trial registration This study has been registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-DPD-16009070) on 24th of August 2016.

Abstract Background Aspergillus fumigatus is frequently encountered in sputum samples of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), which traditionally has been interpreted as saprophytic airway colonization. However, this mere bystander role has been challenged by recent data. There is now evidence that Aspergillus fumigatus accelerates the decline of pulmonary function. (1→3)-β-D-glucan (BDG) and galactomannan (GM) are highly sensitive fungal biomarkers that are used to diagnose invasive fungal disease. However, their diagnostic value in CF patients is largely unknown. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study on 104 CF patients to determine whether serum BDG and GM levels correlate with parameters such as Aspergillus-positive sputum cultures and lung function. Results Aspergillus fumigatus was persistently detected in 22 of the 104 CF patients (21%). Mean serum BDG and GM levels in the Aspergillus-positive patients were significantly higher than in those without persistent Aspergillus detection (89 versus 40 pg/ml [p = 0.022] and 0.30 versus 0.15 ODI [p = 0.013], respectively). 27 and 7 patients had elevated BDG (≥ 60 pg/ml) or GM levels (> 0.5 ODI), respectivly. BDG and GM levels showed a significant correlation (p = 0.004). Patients with increased serum concentrations of BDG were more frequently Aspergillus-positive (40.7 versus 14.3%, p = 0.004) and had a significantly lower forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) than patients with a normal BDG (61.6 versus 77.1%, p = 0.007). In the multivariate analysis, BDG but not GM or the growth of A. fumigatus, proved to be an independent predictor for the FEV1. Conclusions CF patients with persistent Aspergillus detection have elevated BDG and GM levels which ranged between healthy and invasively infected patients. Serum BDG may be superior to GM and fungal culture in predicting an impaired lung function in CF patients.

We found significant correlation between the incidence of severe influenza and Aspergillus antigenemia among medical intensive care unit patients for 7-month observation (coefficient γ=0.976, p

The anti-inflammatory and antihyperglycemic effects of polysaccharides extracted from Alhagi maurorum Medik. seeds, spontaneous shrub collected in Southern of Algerian Sahara were investigated. Their water extraction followed by alcoholic precipitation was conducted to obtain two water-soluble polysaccharides extracts (WSPAM1 and WSPAM2). They were characterized using Fourier transform infrared, 1H/13C Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Size Exclusion Chromatography coupled with Multi-Angle Light Scattering. The capacity of those fractions to inhibit α-amylase activity and thermally induced Bovine Serum Albumin denaturation were also investigated. WSPAM1 and WSPAM2 were galactomannans with a mannose/galactose ratio of 2.2 and 2.4, respectively. The SEC-MALLS analysis revealed that WSPAM1 had a molecular weight of 1.4 × 106 Da. The investigations highlighted antinflammatory and antihyperglycemic effects in a dose-dependant manner of WSPAM1 and WSPAM2.

Galactomannans are naturally occurring biocompatible and biodegradable nonionic polysaccharides comprised of mannose and galactose residues. They are under investigation for the design of various drug delivery carriers such as matrix tablets, microparticles, nanoparticles/nanocomposites, polymeric micelles, hydrogels, as well as pharmaceutical excipients. Amongst galactomannans, guar gum, locust bean gum, and fenugreek gum are the biomaterials mostly investigated for their potential utility as nanocarriers for various purposes, either in their native or modified forms. The galactomannan-based nanomaterials have been fabricated by adopting various strategies. These galactomannan nanomaterials have been tested for oral vaccination, oral insulin delivery, cancer cell & macrophage targeting, controlled drug delivery, heavy metal extraction and wound dressing applications. The galactomannan has attracted the attention of researchers as reducing agents for the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles as well. These nanometals have shown improved antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer activities. In vitro toxicity of the nanomaterials is also assessed in some instances. Others such as cassia gum, tara gum, Delonix, Leucaena leucocephala , Punica granatum galactomannans are amongst the least studied materials for biological applications. This review describes various strategies adopted for the synthesis of galactomannan-based nanomaterials, their properties and applications, especially in the field of drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nettle seed gum (NSG) which is a novel potential source of hydrocolloid was characterized in terms of yield, physicochemical, rheological, functional and thermal properties. According to Response Surface Methodology, the maximum extraction yield was determined as 6.17% on dry basis. In order to clarify the structural information of the gum, the FT-IR analysis and monosaccharide composition determination were performed. In the results, the NSG had 8.48% moisture, 10.81% total ash, 2.89% total protein, 1.15% total oil and 76.67% total carbohydrate. The FT-IR analysis revealed the existence of carboxyl groups, which gives the gum the capability of ion binding. Furthermore, Mannose/Galactose ratio was calculated as 1.07, indicating the water solubility of gum. DSC analysis showed that the NSG was highly stable in thermal process. Intrinsic viscosity, average viscosity and molecular weight values were determined as 8.56 ± 0.4 dL/g and 1.89 ± 0.1 × 106 g/mol, respectively. The emulsification capacity, emulsion stability and foam formation capacity of the NSG were 48%, 40% and 4%, respectively. The NSG exhibited shear thinning behavior while dynamic rheological analysis indicated the NSG had viscoelastic properties and G ′ (the storage modulus) was higher than G ″ (the loss modulus). In conclusion, the present study supplied novel knowledge on the NSG, which will be inestimable for clarifying its matchless functional properties. • Response Surface Methodology was used for maximization of gum yield from nettle. • Man/Gal ratio of NSG was calculated as 1.07, indicating its water solubility. • Rheological analysis showed that NSG exhibited shear thinning behavior. • Dynamic rheological analysis indicated its solid-like behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to identify and determine the physical and structural characterization of the water-soluble galactomannan extracted from endosperm splits of Chinese S. cannabina seeds. The Sesbania galactomannan (SP) was extracted and purified using a novel method with a high yield (40.3 ± 7.2%). The molecular structure of SP was determined by monosaccharide composition, FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. The structural data showed that SP was galactomannan which composed by a β-(1/4)-linked mannose backbone with galactopyranosyl residues attached through α-(1/6) linkages. The constant mannose/galactose (M/G) ratio and average molecular weight (M w) of SP was 1.6:1 and 2.16 × 105 g/mol, respectively. The physical results revealed that SP had many branches on the backbone and existed as a random coil state in aqueous solution. SP was a good biopolymer which had smooth and clearer surface with homogeneous composition, and had some degree of crystallinity and prebiotic activity. As a consequence, SP could be a potential prebiotic and was expected to be suitable for applications in food, pharmaceutical, biomedical or cosmetic industries as a promising new biomaterial. Unlabelled Image • A high purity galactomannan with some degree of crystallinity was isolated from Chinese Sesbania cannabina seed. • A chemical structure model of general galactomannan was established. • SP had many branches and existed in a random coil state in aqueous solution. • SP was a good biopolymer by apparent morphology observation. • SP could be a potential prebiotic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new galactomannan components designed as AANP-1, AANP-3, and AAAP-7 were isolated from previously purified Aloe arborescence polysaccharide fractions, using ion-exchange, gel filtration, and preparative chromatographic techniques. Based on Fourier transform-infrared, one-dimensional and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, the main backbone of AANP-1 elucidated as (1 → 4)-linked_α-d-deoxyGalp, (1 → 4) d-Manp, and β-d-2-glup. The sugar residue sequence of AANP-3 was (1 → 4)-linked β-d-NHAC-GAlp with β-d-AcManp side chain that attached to O-4 position. The AAAP-7 repeated units were (1 → 4) d-Manp linked with (1 → 4) d-Galp interspersed with (1 → 3)-α-Manp. The results of high performance size-exclusion chromatography indicated that the approximate molecular weights of AANP-1, AANP-3, and AAAP-7 were 4.2, 2.4, and 2.5 kDa, respectively. The cytokine modulation assay revealed that the isolated components promoted a remarkable release of interleukin (IL)-12 and tumor necrosis factor alpha in comparison with the negative control group, whereas potent significant induction of IL-2 and interferon gamma was detected more than the positive control phytohemagglutinin (P < .05). This is the first report for isolation galactomannans from Aloe arborescence. Moreover, this finding could provide new insights for exploring the biological modifier mechanism in correlation with the knowledge of structural configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Patients with acute leukaemia have a high incidence of fungal infections. This has primarily been shown in acute myeloid leukaemia and is different for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Until now no benefit of mould active prophylaxis has been demonstrated in the latter population. Methods: In this retrospective single‐centre study, we analysed the incidence, clinical relevance, and outcome of invasive fungal diseases (IFD) as well as the impact of antifungal prophylaxis for the first 100 days following the primary diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Results: In 58 patients a high rate of proven, probable, and possible fungal infections could be demonstrated with a 3.4%, 8.6%, and 17.2% likelihood, respectively. The incidence might be even higher, as nearly 40% of all patients had no prolonged neutropenia for more than 10 days, excluding those from the European Organization of Research and Treatment of cancer and the Mycoses Study Group criteria for probable invasive fungal disease. The diagnosed fungal diseases had an impact on the duration of hospitalisation, which was 13 days longer for patients with proven/probable IFD compared to patients with no signs of fungal infection. Use of antifungal prophylaxis did not significantly affect the risk of fungal infection. Conclusion: Patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia are at high risk of acquiring an invasive fungal disease. Appropriate criteria to define fungal infections, especially in this population, and strategies to reduce the risk of infection, including antifungal prophylaxis, need to be further evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water-soluble hybrid nanocomposites were synthesized for the first time with the use of industrial crystalline selenium (gray powder selenium) activated in a hydrazine hydrate—alkali base-recovery system. The obtained nanocomposites consist of the selenium nanoparticles 13.0–24.0 nm in size stabilized by biocompatible natural polysaccharide galactomannan. The structures of the nanocomposites were characterized by a complex of physicochemical methods (X-ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy, and infrared spectroscopy). The pronounced antioxidant activity of the prepared nanocomposites against free radicals of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt was found, and its value correlates with the particle size of selenium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a life-threatening condition. Patients with lung cancer 73.9% died within 1 month after IPA diagnosis. Diagnosing IPA is challenging because of the nonspecific clinical symptoms, radiological findings, lack of sensitivity, and need time in culture method. A 73-year-old male presented with shortness of breath, productive cough, fever, chest pain, and a decrease of body weight. On right thorax auscultation, decreased of vesicular breath sound, rhonchi, and pleural friction rub were found. The chest radiograph revealed a right lung tumor. We confirmed the existence of Aspergillosis on the fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) result by conducting the serology examination (1,3-β-D-glucan and Galactomannan) using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Bronchoalveolar lavage culture from FOB result was Aspergillus fumigatus, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy showed adenocarcinoma. Because IPA is a life-threatening condition, an early diagnosis is important. Therefore, a serology test is necessary for the early detection of suspected case of fungal infection and useful to complement the culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gleditsia sinensis , fenugreek and guar galactomannans (referred to as GSG, FG, and GG) were extracted from their gums and investigated using various techniques. Mannose to galactose ratios were 3.55, 1.11, and 1.65, respectively. The intrinsic viscosity of GSG was very close to that of GG, while that of FG was the lowest one. This was attributed to the influence of high galactose substitution of FG on the mannan backbone, which induced a lower chain dimension due to intermolecular entanglement. High degrees of substitution and high temperatures contributed to improving the solubility of galactomannan. Rheological behavior indicated that GG had the highest apparent viscosity, yet the power-law model could well-fitted the flow curves of GSG and FG, but not GG. Through morphological observations, the extracted galactomannans exhibited rod-like structure in deionized water and showed fibrous filament network structure after dehydration by freeze-drying. The thermal behavior was greatly influenced by the degree of side groups and M w of galactomannans. • The components of three sources of galactomannan were analyzed and compared. • High galactose substitution and temperature improved the solubility of galactomannan. • Molecular parameters might be difference by different techniques. • Galactomannans showed a rod-like and fibrous filament network structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: The diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA) in an intensive care unit (ICU)remains a challenge and the COVID-19 epidemic makes it even harder. Here, we evaluated AspergillusPCR input to help classifying IA in SARS-CoV-2-infected patients. (2) Methods: 45 COVID-19 patients were prospectively monitored twice weekly for Aspergillus markers and anti-Aspergillus serology. We evaluated the concordance between (I) Aspergillus PCR and culture in respiratory samples, and (II)blood PCR and serum galactomannan. Patients were classified as putative/proven/colonized using AspICU algorithm and two other methods. (3) Results: The concordance of techniques applied on respiratory and blood samples was moderate (kappa=0.58 and kappa=0.63, respectively), with ahigher sensitivity of PCR. According to AspICU, 9/45 patients were classified as putative IA. When incorporating PCR results, 15 were putative IA because they met all criteria, probably with a lack of specificity in the context of COVID-19. Using a modified AspICU algorithm, eight patients were classified as colonized and seven as putative IA. (4) Conclusion: An appreciation of the fungal burden using PCR and Aspergillus serology was added to propose a modified AspICU algorithm. This proof of concept seemed relevant, as it was in agreement with the outcome of patients, but will need validation in larger cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is associated with a high mortality caused by rapidly progressive multiple organ failure. SFTS virus induces immunosuppression, mediated by interleukin-10 production, reduction of CD3+ and CD4+ T cells, and cytokine storms, and this may lead to various complications in critical SFTS patients. Recently, there have been reports of cases of invasive pulmonary Aspergillosis (IPA) in patients with SFTS in the absence of predisposing factors of IPA. However, there is no known relationship between SFTS and mycosis. Here, we report a SFTS patient with a low CD4+ T-cell count and a high viral load, who developed possible IPA in the absence of common risk factors for mycosis. This case adds to the evidence that IPA may occur as a complication of SFTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspergillus is a mold that may lead to different clinical pictures, from allergic to invasive disease, depending on the patient's immune status and structural lung diseases. Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is an infection with a locally invasive presentation, reported especially in patients with chronic pulmonary disease, while aspergilloma is typically found in patients with previously formed cavities in the lungs. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is due to a hypersensitivity reaction to Aspergillus antigens and is more frequently described in patients with moderate-severe asthma or cystic fibrosis. Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis mainly occurs in patients with neutropenia or immunodeficiency, but has increasingly been recognized as an emerging disease of non-neutropenic patients. The significance of this infection has dramatically increased in recent years, considering the high number of patients with an impaired immune state associated with the management and treatment of neoplasm, solid or hematological transplantation, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory conditions. Moreover, prolonged steroid treatment is recognized as an important risk factor, especially for invasive disease. In this setting, critically ill patients admitted to intensive care units and/or with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease could be at higher risk for invasive infection. This review provides an update on the clinical features and risk factors of pulmonary aspergillosis. Current approaches for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of these different forms of pulmonary aspergillosis are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale: Invasive tracheobronchial aspergillosis (ITBA) is an uncommon but severe clinical form of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in which the fungal infection is entirely or predominantly confined to the tracheobronchial tree.Objectives: To analyze the diagnostic and prognostic differences between tracheobronchial aspergillosis and pulmonary aspergillosis without tracheobronchial lesions among patients admitted to the ICU with severe influenza.Methods: This retrospective, observational study included critically ill patients with influenza associated with pulmonary aspergillosis from three hospital ICUs between 2010 and 2019. Patient characteristics and clinical and mycologic data at admission and during ICU stay were collected in a database to evaluate variables in the two groups.Measurements and Main Results: Thirty-five patients admitted to the ICU with severe influenza and pulmonary aspergillosis were included. Ten patients were included in the group with ITBA (n = 10 of 35; 28.6%), and 25 patients were included in the group without ITBA. The group with ITBA comprised more patients with active smoking, diabetes mellitus, and higher severity scores (Simplified Acute Physiology Score II). Ninety-day mortality rates in the groups with and without ITBA were 90% and 44%, respectively (P = 0.02). Moreover, significantly higher serum 1,3-β-d-glucan and galactomannan and BAL fluid galactomannan concentrations were observed in the group with ITBA compared with the group without ITBA (P < 0.0001, P = 0.003, and P = 0.008, respectively).Conclusions: ITBA was associated with higher severity scores, mortality, and serum and BAL fluid galactomannan and 1,3-β-d-glucan concentrations than invasive pulmonary aspergillosis without tracheobronchial lesions. ITBA should be systematically researched by bronchoscopic examination in ICU patients with concomitant pulmonary aspergillosis and influenza.Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04077697). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Invasive fungal disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children with cancer and high‐risk febrile neutropenia (HRFN). Repeated serum galactomannan (sGM) measurements have been described as an effective tool to guide therapy in adults under suspicion of invasive aspergillosis. However, the utility of this approach has not been reported in paediatric population. Objectives: To evaluate the usefulness of sGM measurements in initiating and modifying antifungal therapy (AFT) in children with cancer and persistent HRFN. Patients/Methods: Nested case‐control study in children with cancer and persistent HRFN episodes, between July 2013 and January 2019. Patients were classified as cases and controls depending on if they received AFT or not, respectively. Through odds ratio analysis, we assessed the role of sGM positivity in the AFT initiation decision. Then, we analysed the group of patients that initiated AFT, and compared those who had AFT modifications and those who did not, analysing different sGM kinetics thresholds. Results: A total of 191 episodes from children with persistent HRFN were enrolled, of which 107 received AFT and 84 did not. The median age was 7 years (IQR 4‐12), 52% were male and 89% had a haematologic malignancy as underlying disease. Positive sGM was not associated with AFT initiation (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.43‐2.33, P =.99). A difference threshold in sGM Δ ≥ 0.3 sGM was significantly associated with AFT modification (OR 5.07, 95% CI 1.02‐ 25.70, P =.04). Conclusions: Our results suggest the utility of serial sGM sampling during AFT in children with persistent HRFN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to synthesize nanoparticles of galactomannan- g -poly- N -isopropylacrylamide copolymers, galactomannan from fava d'anta was partially hydrolyzed using hydrochloric acid. Degradation reduced the molar mass and increase mannose/galactose molar ratio. This study shows that high molar mass of galatomannan lead to formation of copolymers with particle size in the order of micrometer, however reducing molar mass from 106 to 104 g mol−1, thermo-sensitive copolymer with low critical aggregation concentration, transition temperature close to body temperature (37 °C) and particle size in the range of 300–170 nm can be obtained. As a proof of concept, partially degraded galactomannan- g -NIPAm copolymer was used to incorporated indomethacin. Good encapsulation efficiency and a controlled release were observed indicating that this material has potential to be used as nanocarrier system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The N - and O -linked oligosaccharides from fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe not only contain large amounts of d -mannose (Man) but also contain large amounts of d -galactose (Gal). Although the galactomannans of S. pombe are mainly composed of α1,2- or α1,3-linked Gals, some of the terminal α1,2-linked Gals are found to be linked to pyruvylated β1,3-linked galactose (PvGal). We have determined the structural characteristics of the N -glycans and O -glycans in three Schizosaccharomyces species (S. japonicus , S. octosporus , and S. cryophilus) using lectin blot, 1H NMR spectroscopy, and size-fractionation high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and found that the galactosylation of oligosaccharides was a common feature in fission yeasts. In addition, each of the terminal Galα1,2-, Galβ1,3- and non-substituted Man residues exhibited distinct characteristics. A BLAST search of gene databases in Schizosaccharomyces identified genes homologous to pvg1 encoding pyruvyltransferase of S. pombe. These genes, when expressed in an S. pombe pvg1 Δ strains, led to the pyruvylation of non-reducing terminal β-linked Gal, suggesting the biosynthetic pathway of PvGal-containing oligosaccharides is highly conserved in fission yeasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several previous studies have shown cavitary lung lesions in old pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) increase the risk of fungus ball. Detection of galactomannan (GM) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is also proposed as a diagnostic approach for the fungus ball. Objectives: We evaluated the diagnosis of fungus balls and GM levels in BAL samples in PTB patients. Methods: A total of 110 PTB patients were evaluated for fungus ball during 2017‐2019. The patients were evaluated for radiological, histopathological results and mycological findings of BAL including GM detection and culture. The sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive value for GM test were calculated. The optimal cut‐off for BAL GM testing was determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC). Results: Of 110 PTB patients, nine (8.18%) showed fungus ball, all with old PTB. The molecularly confirmed Aspergillus species were A. flavus, A. fumigatus and A. ochraceus. The sensitivity and specificity of BAL GM ≥ 0.5 in old PTB patients with fungus ball were 100%, 41.5%, respectively. The statistical analysis of the mean ± SEM of BAL GM levels was demonstrated a higher levels of GM in patients with fungus ball/aspergilloma compared to old PTB patients without fungus ball/aspergilloma. The optimal cut‐off value for BAL GM was determined as 0.50 by ROC curve analysis. Conclusion: According to our results, we can recommend the detection of GM in BAL samples as a diagnostic approach for fungus ball in PTB patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulmonary mucormycosis (PM) represents a serious burden in terms of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients. Studies of prognostic factors in patients with PM are limited and have involved small numbers of patients. Methods: Adult patients diagnosed with proven and probable PM according to the modified definitions of the EORTC/MSG 2008 in a tertiary hospital in Seoul, South Korea, between 2008 and 2019 were retrospectively enrolled. Results: A total of 49 patients including 31 (63%) with proven PM and 18 (37%) with probable PM were enrolled. The 90‐day mortality rate was 49% (24/49). Neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, use of voriconazole at clinical suspicion, positivity of non‐sterile culture, use of steroid and treatment without surgery were more common in fatal cases than non‐fatal cases. Voriconazole use at clinical suspicion for invasive mould pneumonia (OR 6.91, P =.01) and prolonged neutropenia (OR 4.86, P =.03) were independent risk factors for mortality. Voriconazole use at clinical suspicion was associated with positive galactomannan (GM) assay (OR 5.93, P =.02) and history of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (OR, 6.88, P =.05). Conclusion: About half of the patients with PM died within 90 days of diagnosis, and fatal outcomes were common in patients with prolonged neutropenia and empirical voriconazole use. Caution is needed in using voriconazole even in patients with positive GM results and prior histories of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in whom PM cannot be ruled out by differential diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Galactomannans based biopolymers are common constituents of ungerminated seeds of numerous leguminous plants present in endosperm of seeds. They are highly valuable in industries due to their ability to modify the flow behavior of aqueous solutions viz. thicken, suspend, gel, stabilize, swell and film formation. Consequently, they have diverse applications in food and non-food due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, sustainability and abundance. Cassia occidentalis, an annual weed occurring throughout India is a rich source of seed galactomannans (∼30% endosperm). The gum derived from seed endosperm can be potentially utilized in a number of industries to replace the conventional expensive gums. However, the extracted gum has considerable disadvantages such as uncontrolled hydration, changes in viscosity during storage, pH-dependent solubility, lower shelf life etc, thereby, limiting their vast industrial applications. Intriguingly, these limitations can be overcome by functionalization of hydroxyl groups. Therefore, grafting onto C. occidentalis seed gum was carried out with acrylonitrile in presence of ceric ammonium nitrate under inert atmosphere. The reaction conditions were optimized by varying concentration of CAN, nitric acid, acrylonitrile, reaction temperature and time. The grafted gum was characterized using FTIR, TGA, DTG, X-Ray and SEM analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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