The temporal-spatial patterns, polymorphisms and association analysis with meat quality traits of FABP1 gene in domestic pigeons (Columba livia)

1. Fatty acid-binding proteins (FABP) are members of lipid-binding proteins, which participate in the metabolism and intracellular transportation of lipids. This study was designed to investigate the expression patterns, polymorphisms and associations with meat quality traits of the FABP1 gene in pigeons. 2. The temporal-spatial expression patterns showed FABP1 was widely expressed in all eleven tissues from 0-4 weeks of age, the expression level in the liver was the highest, followed by the small intestine and subcutaneous fat. 3. Five novel SNPs were found; all of them were synonymous and in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Association analysis revealed that for the SNP of G161C, the AB and BB genotypes had higher (P ≤ 0.01) inosinic acid concentrations in breast muscle than the AA genotype. The BB genotype showed the highest (P < 0.01) intramuscular fat among the three genotypes, and significantly greater FABP1 mRNA levels were observed in the breast muscle of the BB genotype than in the AA and AB genotypes (P < 0.01). In the SNP C1376T, the AB and BB genotypes showed higher (P < 0.01) intramuscular fat than the AA genotype, and the relative mRNA expression level of the BB (P < 0.01) and AB (P < 0.05) genotypes was higher than that of the AA genotype in breast muscle. Correlation analysis implied that the FABP1 mRNA expression level was closely related to the inosinic acid (P < 0.05) and intramuscular fat content (P < 0.01). Oil red O staining of frozen sections of breast muscle on d 28 for SNPs G161C and C1376T also indicated that the BB genotype had the highest intramuscular fat content in both SNPs. In addition, correlation analysis implied the FABP1 mRNA expression level was closely related to inosinic acid (P < 0.05) and intramuscular fat content (P < 0.01). 4. The results suggested that FABP1 could be a potential candidate gene in marker-assisted selection for breeding pigeons with high-quality meat.

Insight into the relationship between S-lignin and fiber quality based on multiple research methods

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important cash crop, providing people with high quality natural fiber. Lignin is the main component of cotton fiber, second only to cellulose. As a main substance filled in the cellulose framework during the secondary wall thickening process, lignin plays a key role in the formation of cotton fiber quality. However, the mechanism behind it is still unclear. In this research, we screened candidate genes involved in lignin biosynthesis based on analysis of cotton genome and transcriptome sequence data. The authenticity of the transcriptome data was verified by qRT-PCR assay. Total 62 genes were identified from nine gene families. In the process, we found the key gene GhCAD7 that affects the biosynthesis of S-lignin and the ratio of syringyl/guaiacyl (S/G). In addition, in combination with the metabolites and transcriptome profiles of the line 0-153 with high fiber quality and the line sGK9708 with low fiber quality during cotton fiber development, we speculate that the ratio of syringyl/guaiacyl (S/G) is inseparable from the quality of cotton fiber. Finally, the S-type lignin synthesis branch may play a more important role in the formation of high-quality fiber. This work provides insights into the synthesis of lignin in cotton and lays the foundation for future research into improving fiber quality.

Genome-wide quantitative trait loci reveal the genetic basis of cotton fibre quality and yield-related traits in a Gossypium hirsutum recombinant inbred line population

Cotton is widely cultivated globally because it provides natural fibre for the textile industry and human use. To identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs)/genes associated with fibre quality and yield, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population was developed in upland cotton. A consensus map covering the whole genome was constructed with three types of markers (8295 markers, 5197.17 centimorgans (cM)). Six fibre yield and quality traits were evaluated in 17 environments, and 983 QTLs were identified, 198 of which were stable and mainly distributed on chromosomes 4, 6, 7, 13, 21 and 25. Thirty-seven QTL clusters were identified, in which 92.8% of paired traits with significant medium or high positive correlations had the same QTL additive effect directions, and all of the paired traits with significant medium or high negative correlations had opposite additive effect directions. In total, 1297 genes were discovered in the QTL clusters, 414 of which were expressed in two RNA-Seq data sets. Many genes were discovered, 23 of which were promising candidates. Six important QTL clusters that included both fibre quality and yield traits were identified with opposite additive effect directions, and those on chromosome 13 (qClu-chr13-2) could increase fibre quality but reduce yield; this result was validated in a natural population using three markers. These data could provide information about the genetic basis of cotton fibre quality and yield and help cotton breeders to improve fibre quality and yield simultaneously.

Effects of sodium butyrate on intestinal health and gut microbiota composition during intestinal inflammation progression in broilers

Butyric acid is a beneficial feed additive used in animal production, including poultry production. However, there are few reports on butyric acid as a prophylactic treatment against intestinal inflammation in broilers. The current study explored the effect of sodium butyrate (SB) as a prophylactic treatment on the intestinal health and gut microbiota of broilers with intestinal inflammation induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) by monitoring changes in intestinal histopathology, gut leakiness indicators, inflammatory cytokines, and gut microbiota composition. Sodium butyrate supplementation prior to DSS administration significantly reduced the lesion scores of intestinal bleeding (P < 0.05) and increased villus height and the total mucosa of the ileum (P < 0.05). Regardless of intestinal inflammation, supplementation with SB at 300 mg/kg significantly decreased the levels of D (-)-lactate (P < 0.05), interleukin-6, and interleukin-1β (P < 0.05) but increased the level of interleukin-10 (P < 0.05). The SB treatment did not affect the alpha diversity of intestinal microbiota during intestinal inflammation progression but altered their composition, and the microbial community structure of treated broilers was similar to that of control broilers. Taken together, our results reveal the importance of SB in improving intestinal development, inducing an anti-inflammatory effect during intestinal inflammation progression, and modulating the microbial community in broilers. Sodium butyrate seems to be optimized for anti-inflammatory effects at higher doses (300 mg/kg SB).

Identification of TPX2 Gene Family in Upland Cotton and Its Functional Analysis in Cotton Fiber Development

Microtubules (MTs) are of importance to fiber development. The Xklp2 (TPX2) proteins as a class of microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs) play a key role in plant growth and development by regulating the dynamic changes of microtubules (MTs). However, the mechanism underlying this is unknown. The interactions between TPX2 proteins and tubulin protein, which are the main structural components, have not been studied in fiber development of upland cotton. Therefore, a genome-wide analysis of the TPX2 family was firstly performed in Gossypium hirsutum L. This study identified 41 GhTPX2 sequences in the assembled G. hirsutum genome by a series of bioinformatic methods. Generally, this gene family is phylogenetically grouped into six subfamilies, and 41 G. hirsutumTPX2 genes (GhTPX2s) are distributed across 21 chromosomes. A heatmap of the TPX2 gene family showed that homologous GhTPX2 genes, GhWDLA2/7 and GhWDLA4/9, have large differences in expression levels between two upland cotton recombinant inbred lines (69307 and 69362) that are different in fiber quality at 15 and 20 days post anthesis. The relative data indicate that these four genes are down-regulated under oryzalin, which causes microtubule depolymerization, as determined via qRT-PCR. A subcellular localization experiment suggested that GhWDLA2 and GhWDLA7 are localized to the microtubule cytoskeleton, and GhWDLA4 and GhWDLA9 are only localized to the nucleus. However, only GhWDLA7 between GhWDLA2 and GhWDLA7 interacted with GhTUA2 in the yeast two-hybrid assay. These results lay the foundation for further function study of the TPX2 gene family.

[Clinical research progress of cell immunity in gastric cancer]

Gastric cancer is the most common gastrointestinal cancer in China. The morbidity and mortality are extremely high and there are significant challenges in the treatment of gastric cancer. Recent studies have shown that the expressions of T lymphocyte subsets vary in the immune microenvironment of gastric cancer patients. T lymphocytes are not only the main effector cells of human cellular immunity, but also the important immunoregulatory cells. T lymphocytes not only reflect the state of the tumor microenvironment, but also closely relate with the prognosis of patients. T lymphocytes play a crucial guiding role in the clinical treatment. Currently, clinical trials related to immunological checkpoint inhibitors are still underway, among which PD-1/PD-L1 monoclonal antibody has been approved for the treatment of gastric cancer. The applications of tumor vaccines and adoptive cell therapies in gastric cancer are also being explored. How to screen patients suitable to immunotherapy, develop the best combination therapy and evaluate the effectiveness of immunotherapy need to be studied and solved.

Phenotypic analysis of atopic dermatitis in children aged 1-12 months: elaboration of novel diagnostic criteria for infants in China and estimation of prevalence

BACKGROUND

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common skin disorder in infancy. However, the diagnosis and definite significance of infantile AD remains a debated issue.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the phenotypes of AD in infancy, to establish diagnostic criteria and to estimate the prevalence of this condition in China.

METHODS

This is a multicentric study, in which 12 locations were chosen from different metropolitan areas of China. Following careful and complete history-taking and skin examination, the definite diagnosis of AD was made and the severity based on the SCORAD index was determined by local experienced dermatologists. Based on the detailed phenotyping, the major and representative clinical features of infantile AD were selected to establish the diagnostic criteria and evaluate their diagnostic efficacy.

RESULTS

A total of 5967 infants were included in this study. The overall point prevalence of AD was 30.48%. The infantile AD developed as early as at the second month of life, and its incidence peaked in the third month of life at 40.81%. The proportion of mild, moderate and severe AD was 67.40%, 30.57% and 2.03%, respectively. The most commonly seen manifestations in the infantile AD were facial dermatitis (72.07%), xerosis (42.72%) and scalp dermatitis (27.93%). We established the novel diagnostic criteria of infants, which included: (i) onset after 2 weeks of birth; (ii) pruritus and/or irritability and sleeplessness comparable with lesions; and (iii) all two items above with one of the following items can reach a diagnosis of AD: (i) eczematous lesions distributed on cheeks and/or scalp and/or extensor limbs, and (ii) eczematous lesions on any other parts of body accompanied by xerosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In China, the prevalence of AD in infancy is 30.48% according to clinical diagnosis of dermatologists. The novel Chinese diagnostic criteria for AD in infants show a higher sensitivity and comparable specificity.

Analysis of Causes of Death and Related Factors of 102 Perinatal Infants in Chongqing

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the causes of perinatal death and related factors from the perspective of forensic medicine, and to provide references for reducing perinatal mortality and guidance for forensic identification.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on 102 cases of perinatal autopsy with clinical data from the Department of Forensic Medicine of Chongqing Medical University in 2004-2016.

RESULTS

Of the 102 cases of perinatal deaths, 66 （64.71%） were neonatal deaths, 24 （23.53%） were stillborn foetuses, and 12 （11.76%） were stillbirths. Among the 66 neonatal death cases, 39 （59.09%） died within 1 d, 19 （28.79%） died within 1-3 d, and 8 （12.12%） died within >3-7 d of birth. The top 3 causes of neonatal death were pulmonary diseases, congenital malformation, umbilical cord and placental abnormalities. The causes of stillborn foetus and stillbirth were mainly umbilical cord and placental abnormalities, and intrauterine asphyxia.

CONCLUSIONS

Pulmonary diseases, umbilical cord and placental abnormalities, and congenital malformations are the main causes of perinatal death. In order to reduce the perinatal mortality, pre-pregnancy examination and prenatal care should be strengthened, and the knowledge of pregnancy care should be popularized.

miRNA-185 regulates retained fetal membranes of cattle by targeting STIM1

Retained fetal membranes (RFM) of cows is an important reproductive disturbance, and is related to miRNA-185. Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1), a potential target gene of miRNA-185, could influence placenta release via regulating Ca²⁺ concentration intracellular. The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism of RFM by investigating the regulatory relationship between miRNA-185 and STIM1 in primary uterine caruncel epithelial (UCE) cells. Serum samples of healthy Holstein dairy cows (n = 20) and RFM cows (n = 12), with a similar age, parity, weight, and milk yield, were collected to detect Ca²⁺ concentration at prepartum 1-5 d and postpartum 6, 12 and 24 h. Caruncle tissues were collected from healthy (n = 6) and RFM cows (n = 6) at 12 h after calving. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) and western blotting (WB) were performed to detect the mRNA and protein levels of STIM1, respectively. UCE cells were cultured by the explant culture method, further purified, and subsequently treated with PmirGLO-STIM1-Mut + miRNA-185 mimics and mirGLO-STIM1-Mut + miRNA-185 NC. Q-PCR and WB were performed to detect mRNA and protein levels of STIM1 with treated miRNA-185 mimics. Serum levels of Ca²⁺ from RFM cows were abnormally decreased at prepartum 1 d and postpartum 6, 12 and 24 h. Expression level of STIM1 was down-regulated in the caruncle tissue of RFM cows. The luciferase activity was decresed about 30.9% by miRNA-185 mimics (p < 0.01), and the mRNA and protein levels of STIM1 were downregulated miRNA-185-mimics. It was suggesting that miRNA-185 might play an important role in RFM through regulating the expression of STIM1.

Cohort Profile: The Chongqing Cancer Cohort Study (CCCS) of the Urban Population in Southwest China

Purpose: Urbanization is causing an increasingly negative effect on public health in China. This study was established to examine the associations between socio-economic and environmental exposures and the potential impact of gene-environment interactions and cancer risk of urban population in Chongqing, China. Participants: The cohort was established in Beibei District of Chongqing in southwest China. Between March 2016 and December 2016, we enrolled 57,332 adults who were 40-69 years of age, and collected baseline data on demographic information, socio-economic status, lifestyle, family and personal disease histories through face-to-face interviews using a standardized questionnaire. Regular follow-up including face-to-face interviews will take place every 5 years. Findings to date: Ninety-nine percent (56658/57332) of the participants completed the baseline assessment. The eligible participants had a mean age of 54.8 years, and 51.42% were females. Nearly three-fifths of participants having a normal BMI (18.5 to 23.9 kg/m2) and one-third being overweight (24.0 to 27.9 kg/m2). Among males, 29.58% were smokers and 21.08% were alcohol users. Among females, 1.49% were smokers and 1.66% were alcohol users. Among all participants, 7.03% of males and 9.08% of females reported their family history of cancer. Future plans: The relationships of modifiable risk factors with the cancer risk will be analyzed. Meanwhile, participants will be closely tracked to minimize loss to follow-up. We plan to construct a risk prediction model on cancer and verify the prediction model by genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The successful completion of this cohort study will allow for better targeting of cancer screening to those at highest risk in urban population of China and provide clinicians and policymakers with a practical predication rule.

Tobacco Smoking and Trends in Histological Subtypes of Female Lung Cancer at The Cancer Hospital of The Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Over 13 Years

Background: Smoking among Chinese women accounts for a small proportion, but the incidence and mortality rates of female lung cancer is increasing in recent years. Studies found that there were changes in histologic subtypes of lung cancer patients in China. Aim: This study investigated the tobacco smoking and trends in histologic subtypes of female lung cancer in a cancer hospital in China. Methods: Demographic, smoking history and histologic information about female lung cancer patients diagnosed or treated from 2000 to 2012 was collected from Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science (CHCAMS). Trends of histologic subtypes calculated with annual percentage change (APC). The distribution differences of adenocarcinoma (ADC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and the other subtypes between smokers and nonsmokers were calculated by 7th AJCC cancer staging. Results: Totally of 5,870 female cases of lung cancer, including 630 with history of smoking and 5,240 without, were analyzed. The number of female lung cancer patients increased from 509 (2000-2002) to 1744 (2012-2013). The main histologic type of lung cancer was adenocarcinoma (ADC) (72.93%), followed by small cell lung cancer (SCLC) (11.06%), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) (8.38%) and the other (7.63%). Among smokers, the proportion of SCC decreased from 40.5% to 23.7% (APC = -11.68%, P = 0.005), however, the ADC increased from 35.7% to 50.7% (APC = 8.63%, P = 0.009). In nonsmokers, the ADC was 76.1%, and SCC was 5.9%. ADC increased from 63.1% to 80.6% (APC = -21.33%, P = 0.006), SCC decreased from 13.6% to 4.5% (APC = 3.86%, P = 0.016). Among squamous cell carcinoma, the cases with history of smoking were more likely diagnosed at early stages (I/II: 47.1%) than those at late stages (III, 34.3%; IV, 18.6%). Conclusion: The number of female lung cancer patients was increased in CHCAMS by year of diagnosis. In both smoking and nonsmoking cases, the proportion of adenocarcinoma was increasing. Among the squamous cell carcinoma, smokers seem to find in early stages.

Genome-wide identification and analysis of the evolution and expression patterns of the GATA transcription factors in three species of Gossypium genus

GATA transcription factors (TFs), which bind to DNA in regulatory regions, are involved in cell differentiation and possess a type-IV zinc finger and a DNA-binding domain. GATA genes have been characterized in plant species such as Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, and Glycine max, and their functions have been elucidated in A. thaliana. Although many Gossypium quantitative trait loci for fiber quality harbor GATA TFs, GATA genes have not yet been characterized in cotton. In this study, we identified 179 GATA genes from the genomes of three Gossypium species. We analyzed the phylogenetic relationships, chromosomal distribution, gene structure, expression pattern, and predicted promoters of all 179 Gossypium GATA genes (46 in G. raimondii, 46 in G. arboreum, and 87 in G. hirsutum). Phylogenetic analysis grouped the 179 GATA genes into four subfamilies. Domain analysis revealed that GATA domains in subfamilies I, II, and III were located near the C-terminal, whereas those in subfamily IV were adjacent to the N-terminal. RNA-seq and (Real-time PCR) qRT-PCR revealed that 39.1% (34/87) of GATA genes were expressed in growing plant tissues in G. hirsutum, but only 12.6% (11/87) were expressed during fiber development. In addition, 45.7% (21/46) and 26.1% (12/46) of GATA genes were expressed in G. arboreum and G. raimondii, respectively. Our results may be useful for elucidating the evolution, expression patterns, and functional divergence of GATA genes in Gossypium.

GWAS Analysis and QTL Identification of Fiber Quality Traits and Yield Components in Upland Cotton Using Enriched High-Density SNP Markers

It is of great importance to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling fiber quality traits and yield components for future marker-assisted selection (MAS) and candidate gene function identifications. In this study, two kinds of traits in 231 F6:8 recombinant inbred lines (RILs), derived from an intraspecific cross between Xinluzao24, a cultivar with elite fiber quality, and Lumianyan28, a cultivar with wide adaptability and high yield potential, were measured in nine environments. This RIL population was genotyped by 122 SSR and 4729 SNP markers, which were also used to construct the genetic map. The map covered 2477.99 cM of hirsutum genome, with an average marker interval of 0.51 cM between adjacent markers. As a result, a total of 134 QTLs for fiber quality traits and 122 QTLs for yield components were detected, with 2.18-24.45 and 1.68-28.27% proportions of the phenotypic variance explained by each QTL, respectively. Among these QTLs, 57 were detected in at least two environments, named stable QTLs. A total of 209 and 139 quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) were associated with fiber quality traits and yield components by four multilocus genome-wide association studies methods, respectively. Among these QTNs, 74 were detected by at least two algorithms or in two environments. The candidate genes harbored by 57 stable QTLs were compared with the ones associated with QTN, and 35 common candidate genes were found. Among these common candidate genes, four were possibly "pleiotropic." This study provided important information for MAS and candidate gene functional studies.

Nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 activates glutathione S-transferase expression in the midgut of Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in response to phytochemicals and insecticides

Detoxication enzymes play an important role in insect resistance to xenobiotics such as insecticides and phytochemicals. We studied the pathway for activating the expression of glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) in response to selected xenobiotics. An assay of the promoter activity of GST epsilon 1 (Slgste1) of Spodoptera litura led to the discovery of a cis-regulating element. An antioxidant response element was activated in response to indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and chlorpyrifos (CPF) and was able to bind with the xenobiotic sensor protein nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 (SlNrf2). SlNrf2 and Slgste1 were responsive to reactive oxygen species induced by I3C and CPF in a S. litura cell line, as well as in S. litura midguts. SlNrf2 RNA interference (RNAi) reduced the message RNA levels of Slgste1 and the peroxidase activity of GSTs in response to I3C, xanthotoxin, CPF and deltamethrin. SlNrf2 RNAi and inhibitor treatment of GST activity decreased the viability of I3C-treated cells. These results indicate that SlNrf2 activates the expression of GSTs in response to oxidative stresses caused by exposure to xenobiotics.

Dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) causes intestinal histopathology and inflammatory changes consistent with increased gut leakiness in chickens

1. The clinical severity, histological changes, indicators of gut leakiness and inflammatory cytokine profiles were studied in chickens with dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced intestinal inflammation. 2. The experimental groups (1.25%, 1.5% and 2.5% DSS) showed clinical signs, such as loose stools and weight loss, which increased with additional treatment days and, as expected, the effects of DSS-induced intestinal inflammation were time and dose-dependent. 3. After 10 d, histological manifestations were evident, including goblet cell depletion, mucus layer loss, significantly shorter villi and a thinner total ileal mucosa. 4. The d(-)-lactate value, which was used as a gut leakiness indicator, was significantly increased in the 2.5% DSS group. 5. Expression of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1Beta, tumour necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-10 in the serum significantly increased with DSS treatment. 6. This study indicates that the experimental intestinal inflammation induced by DSS is an ideal model to study the pathogenic mechanisms of intestinal inflammation in chickens and to test the efficacy of therapies.

Genome-wide identification and analysis of the evolution and expression patterns of the cellulose synthase gene superfamily in Gossypium species

The cellulose synthase gene superfamily, which includes the cellulose synthase (Ces) and cellulose synthase-like (Csl) families, is involved in the synthesis of cellulose and hemicellulose. This superfamily is critical for cotton fiber development in Gossypium species. Applying a series of bioinformatic methods, we identified 228 Ces/Csl genes from four Gossypium species (G. hirsutum, G. barbadense, G. arboreum, and G. raimondii). These genes were then grouped into 11 subfamilies based on phylogenetic relationships. A subsequent analysis of gene evolution revealed sites in CSLG and CSLJ genes that were under long-term positive selection pressure, with a posterior probability >0.95. Moreover, the d_N:d_S value for the CSLJ clade was 1.305, suggesting this subfamily was under positive selection pressure. Our data indicated that the d_N:d_S value ranged from 0.0084 to 0.9693 among the homologous Ces/Csl genes, implying they were under purifying selection pressure. Our transcriptome and qRT-PCR analyses revealed that CesA genes were more highly expressed in tetraploids than in diploids. However, the Csl expression levels exhibited the opposite trend. Furthermore, changes to promoter sequences may have influenced the expression of homologous Ces/Csl genes. Our findings may provide novel insights into the evolutionary relationships and expression patterns of the Ces/Csl genes in Gossypium species.

A novel noninvasive algorithm for the assessment of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection

Several noninvasive blood biomarkers have been established for the assessment of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, but their clinical performance remains inconclusive. Here, we compared the diagnostic performance of these biomarkers and developed a novel algorithm for assessing liver fibrosis. Six hundred and sixteen chronically HBV-infected and treatment-naïve patients who underwent liver biopsy were enrolled and randomly divided into training (N=410) and internal validation cohorts (N=206). One hundred and fifty-nine patients from another centre were recruited as an external validation cohort. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to analyse the performance of the gamma-glutamyltransferase-to-platelet ratio (GPR), red cell volume distribution width-to-platelet ratio (RPR), FIB-4 index, aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) and HBV DNA level against liver histology, and a novel algorithm was developed using the recursive partitioning and regression tree (RPART) method. In the training cohort, the area under the ROC curve of FIB-4 was significantly higher than that of APRI (P=.038) but was comparable to those of GPR, RPR and HBV DNA; however, the performance of the biomarkers was similar among the validation cohort. The established RPR-HBV DNA algorithm performed better in the training cohort than any individual blood biomarker, and the corresponding sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 63%, 90%, 72% and 80%, respectively. In the internal and external validation cohorts, the performance of the algorithm in assessing liver fibrosis was also superior to that of other biomarkers. These results suggest that the established RPR-HBV DNA algorithm might improve the diagnostic accuracy of liver fibrosis in treatment-naïve patients with chronic HBV infection, although additional studies are warranted to confirm these findings.

Long-term outcomes of peroral endoscopic myotomy for patients with achalasia: a retrospective single-center study

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) has been widely applied to the treatment of achalasia. The aim of this study is to retrospectively investigate the long-term outcome of POEM in patients with achalasia. Patients undergoing POEM at our center with a minimum follow-up of 3 years were enrolled in this study. Relief of patients' symptom was defined as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included lower esophageal sphincter pressure, esophageal emptying, symptoms relapse, and clinical reflux adverse events. The Chi-square test was performed to determine the potential predictors of surgical failure. Sixty-seven patients (aged 40.7 ± 15.3 years) were recruited in the study, with a mean follow-up period of 40.1 ± 2.8 months. At the final follow-up, the median Eckardt score reduced from 7.6 ± 2.3 preoperatively to 1.9 ± 1.7 (P < 0.001), the lower esophageal sphincter pressure was reduced from 35.4 ± 13.7 mmHg preoperatively to 8.9 ± 4.1 mmHg (P < 0.001), and the height of the barium column at 5 min after barium swallowed was reduced from 9.7 ± 1.6 cm preoperatively to 2.9 ± 2.1 cm (P < 0.001). Eight patients had symptoms relapse and nine patients developed reflux esophagitis. Type III achalasia was found to be indicative of surgical failure. POEM was a promising treatment for patients with achalasia, which can yield a long-term relief of the symptom and a low rate of clinical reflux adverse events.

Experiments of a monolithic radial transmission line

This paper presents the experimental results of a monolithic radial transmission line (MRTL) that may be used in pulsed power generators and microwave devices. The MRTL with a hyperbolic impedance profile is 508 mm in radius, corresponding to a one-way transit time of 15 ns for the electromagnetic wave. In the experiments, up to twenty identical voltage pulses, 10 ns in FWHM and 2 ns in rise-time, were fed into the MRTL through 20 input BNC connectors that are uniformly distributed along the outer circumference of the MRTL. It was found that the amplitude of the voltage from the output BNC connector located in the center of the MRTL is nearly proportional to the total number of the input branches. The effect of the failure modes on the output voltage was investigated. For the MRTL driven by 20 input branches, while the open-circuit or short-circuit even in one input branch considerably decreases the amplitude of the output voltage, the jitter shorter than 2 ns in 3 input branches makes no obvious effect on the output voltage.

Characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome of Portunus pelagicus with implications for phylogenomics

This study determined the mitochondrial genome structure of the blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus), and elucidated its phylogenetic relationships among the species within the order Decapoda. The complete mitochondrial genome was 16,155 bp long, and contained 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and 1 DNA control region. The gene order of the genome was the same as that found within the family Portunidae. Twenty-three genes were on the heavy strand and 14 were on the light strand. Almost all of the protein-coding genes were initiated by an ATG codon, except for three genes (ATP6, ND1, and ND3) that started with a rare ATT codon. Of the 13 protein-coding genes, 10 ended with complete TAA or TAG stop codons and three ended with an incomplete T codon. Thirteen non-coding regions were identified that ranged from 1 to 30 bp in length. Nine overlaps were found, which ranged 1 to 7 bp in length. Phylogenetic analyses based on 12 concatenated protein-coding genes revealed that P. pelagicus formed a monophyletic group with Portunus trituberculatus, which were in a larger group with Callinectes sapidus, while the genera Charybdis and Thalamita formed another group. These two groups clustered together and grouped with the genus Scylla. The phylogenetic analysis supported the inclusion of Charybdis in subfamily Portuninae of the family Portunidae, and revealed a close relationship between Charybdis and Thalamita. We suggest that Thalamita should also be classified into the subfamily Portuninae. The results can be used in the study of phylogenetic, population genetic and conservation genetics of P. pelagicus.

Transcription factor 7-like 1 dysregulates keratinocyte differentiation through upregulating lipocalin 2

Recent studies strongly suggested that transcription factor 7-like 1 (Tcf7l1, also known as Tcf3) is involved in the differentiation of several types of cells, and demonstrated that Tcf7l1 modulates keratinocytes physiologically through regulating lipocalin 2 (LCN2), a key regulator of cell differentiation. To reveal the potential role of Tcf7l1 in the dysregulation of keratinocyte differentiation, both Tcf7l1 and LCN2 were determined in a variety of skin disorders. The in vitro effect of Tcf7l1 on keratinocyte differentiation was studied by culturing SCC-13 cells, and the human foreskin keratinocytes (HFKs) that were transfected with vectors for overexpressing human papillomavirus E6/E7 or Tcf7l1 genes. We found that both Tcf7l1 and LCN2 were highly expressed in those diseases characterized by defective keratinocyte differentiation (especially psoriasis vulgaris, condyloma acuminatum, squamous cell carcinoma, etc). Moreover, compared with control HFKs, SCC-13 cells and E6/E7-harboring HFKs expressed more Tcf7l1 and LCN2. Tcf7l1 siRNA transfection decreased LCN2 but increased involucrin and loricrin in HFKs under calcium stimuli. Conversely, Tcf7l1 overexpression in SCC-13 cells or vector-transfected HFKs induced lower involucrin and loricrin expression and less keratinocyte apoptosis, both of which, however, were partially abrogated by LCN2 siRNA or neutralizing anti-LCN2 antibody. Interestingly, the Tcf7l1 expression in HFKs correlated positively with the MMP-2 level, and the inhibition of MMP-2 decreased the LCN2 level and even attenuated the effect of Tcf7l1 on LCN2 expression. Therefore, Tcf7l1 dysregulates keratinocyte differentiation, possibly through upregulating the LCN2 pathway in an MMP-2 mediated manner. Elucidating the interaction between Tcf7l1 and LCN2 may help understand disordered cell differentiation in some skin diseases.

Post-mortem findings in a patient with avian influenza A (H5N6) virus infection

Avian influenza A (H5N6) has been found to infect humans, and has resulted in ten cases with six deaths in China since 2014. Here, we describe the systematic post-mortem pathology of a patient fatally infected with H5N6 virus and evaluate the associated pathogenesis compared with H1N1 pdm09 fatal cases. The most prominent histopathological features were diffuse alveolar damage and pulmonary vasculitis in the lungs of the patient. The virus disseminated to extrapulmonary organs, including the brain. Compared with H1N1 pdm09 fatal infection, H5N6 infection induced a more exacerbated immune response involving overt pulmonary inflammation, which led to alveolar damage and respiratory failure.

Low nanomolar concentrations of Cucurbitacin-I induces G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis by perturbing redox homeostasis in gastric cancer cells in vitro and in vivo

Cucurbitacin-I (Cu-I, also known as Elatericin B or JSI-124) is developed to inhibit constitutive and abnormal activation of STAT3 in many cancers, demonstrating a potent anticancer activity by targeting disruption of STAT3 function. Here, we for the first time systematically studied the underlying molecular mechanisms of Cu-I-induced gastric cancer cell death both in vitro and in vivo. In our study, we show that Cu-I markedly inhibits gastric cancer cell growth by inducing G2/M phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis at low nanomolar concentrations via a STAT3-independent mechanism. Notably, Cu-I significantly decreases intracellular GSH/GSSG ratio by inhibiting NRF2 pathway to break cellular redox homeostasis, and subsequently induces the expression of GADD45α in a p53-independent manner, and activates JNK/p38 MAPK signaling. Interestingly, Cu-I-induced GADD45α and JNK/p38 MAPK signaling form a positive feedback loop and can be reciprocally regulated by each other. Therefore, the present study provides new insights into the mechanisms of antitumor effects of Cu-I, supporting Cu-I as an attractive therapeutic drug in gastric cancer by modulating the redox balance.

Metagenomic analysis of viral genetic diversity in respiratory samples from children with severe acute respiratory infection in China

Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) in children is thought to be mainly caused by infection with various viruses, some of which have been well characterized; however, analyses of respiratory tract viromes among children with SARI versus those without are limited. In this study, nasopharyngeal swabs from children with and without SARI (135 versus 15) were collected in China between 2008 and 2010 and subjected to multiplex metagenomic analyses using a next-generation sequencing platform. The results show that members of the Paramyxoviridae, Coronaviridae, Parvoviridae, Orthomyxoviridae, Picornaviridae, Anelloviridae and Adenoviridae families represented the most abundant species identified (>50% genome coverage) in the respiratory tracts of children with SARI. The viral population found in the respiratory tracts of children without SARI was less diverse and mainly dominated by the Anelloviridae family with only a small proportion of common epidemic respiratory viruses. Several almost complete viral genomes were assembled, and the genetic diversity was determined among several samples based on next-generation sequencing. This research provides comprehensive mapping of the viromes of children with SARI and indicates high heterogeneity of known viruses present in the childhood respiratory tract, which may benefit the detection and prevention of respiratory disease.

Note: A novel method for generating multichannel quasi-square-wave pulses

A 21-channel quasi-square-wave nanosecond pulse generator was constructed. The generator consists of a high-voltage square-wave pulser and a channel divider. Using an electromagnetic relay as a switch and a 50-Ω polyethylene cable as a pulse forming line, the high-voltage pulser produces a 10-ns square-wave pulse of 1070 V. With a specially designed resistor-cable network, the channel divider divides the high-voltage square-wave pulse into 21 identical 10-ns quasi-square-wave pulses of 51 V, exactly equal to 1070 V/21. The generator can operate not only in a simultaneous mode but also in a delay mode if the cables in the channel divider are different in length.

Mitochondrial dysfunction-associated OPA1 cleavage contributes to muscle degeneration: preventative effect of hydroxytyrosol acetate

Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to the development of muscle disorders, including muscle wasting, muscle atrophy and degeneration. Despite the knowledge that oxidative stress closely interacts with mitochondrial dysfunction, the detailed mechanisms remain obscure. In this study, tert-butylhydroperoxide (t-BHP) was used to induce oxidative stress on differentiated C2C12 myotubes. t-BHP induced significant mitochondrial dysfunction in a time-dependent manner, accompanied by decreased myosin heavy chain (MyHC) expression at both the mRNA and protein levels. Consistently, endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction triggered by carbonyl cyanide 4-(trifluoromethoxy) phenylhydrazone (FCCP), a mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation inhibitor, was accompanied by decreased membrane potential and decreased MyHC protein content. However, the free radical scavenger N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) efficiently reduced the ROS level and restored MyHC content, suggesting a close association between ROS and MyHC expression. Meanwhile, we found that both t-BHP and FCCP promoted the cleavage of optic atrophy 1 (OPA1) from the long form into short form during the early stages. In addition, the ATPase family gene 3-like 2, a mitochondrial inner membrane protease, was also markedly increased. Moreover, OPA1 knockdown in myotubes was accompanied by decreased MyHC content, whereas NAC failed to prevent FCCP-induced MyHC decrease with OPA1 knockdown, suggesting that ROS might affect MyHC content by modulating OPA1 cleavage. In addition, hydroxytyrosol acetate (HT-AC), an important compound in virgin olive oil, could significantly prevent t-BHP-induced mitochondrial membrane potential and cell viability loss in myotubes. Specifically, HT-AC inhibited t-BHP-induced OPA1 cleavage and mitochondrial morphology changes, accompanied by improvement on mitochondrial oxygen consumption capacity, ATP productive potential and activities of mitochondrial complex I, II and V. Moreover, both t-BHP- and FCCP-induced MyHC decrease was sufficiently inhibited by HT-AC. Taken together, our data provide evidence indicating that mitochondrial dysfunction-associated OPA1 cleavage may contribute to muscle degeneration, and olive oil compounds could be effective nutrients for preventing the development of muscle disorders.

Zeaxanthin induces Nrf2-mediated phase II enzymes in protection of cell death

Zeaxanthin (Zea) is a major carotenoid pigment contained in human retina, and its daily supplementation associated with lower risk of age-related macular degeneration. Despite known property of Zea as an antioxidant, its underlying molecular mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. In this study, we aim to study the regulation mechanism of Zea on phase II detoxification enzymes. In normal human retinal pigment epithelium cells, Zea promoted the nuclear translocation of NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and induced mRNA and protein expression of phase II enzymes, the induction was suppressed by specific knockdown of Nrf2. Zea also effectively protected against tert-butyl hydroperoxide-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. Glutathione (GSH) as the most important antioxidant was also induced by Zea through Nrf2 activation in a time- and dose-dependent manner, whereas the protective effects of Zea were decimated by inhibition of GSH synthesis. Finally, Zea activated the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathway, whereas only PI3K/Akt activation correlated with phase II enzymes induction and Zea protection. In further in vivo analyses, Zea showed effects of inducing phase II enzymes and increased GSH content, which contributed to the reduced lipid and protein peroxidation in the retina as well as the liver, heart, and serum of the Sprague–Dawley rats. For the first time, Zea is presented as a phase II enzymes inducer instead of being an antioxidant. By activating Nrf2-mediated phase II enzymes, Zea could enhance anti-oxidative capacity and prevent cell death both in vivo and in vitro.

Neonatal ketamine exposure causes impairment of long-term synaptic plasticity in the anterior cingulate cortex of rats

Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic most commonly used in many pediatric procedures, has been reported in many animal studies to cause widespread neuroapoptosis in the neonatal brain after exposure in high doses and/or for a prolonged period. This neurodegenerative change occurs most severely in the forebrain including the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) that is an important brain structure for mediating a variety of cognitive functions. However, it is still unknown whether such apoptotic neurodegeneration early in life would subsequently impair the synaptic plasticity of the ACC later in life. In this study, we performed whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from the ACC brain slices of young adult rats to examine any alterations in long-term synaptic plasticity caused by neonatal ketamine exposure. Ketamine was administered at postnatal day 4-7 (subcutaneous injections, 20mg/kg given six times, once every 2h). At 3-4weeks of age, long-term potentiation (LTP) was induced and recorded by monitoring excitatory postsynaptic currents from ACC slices. We found that the induction of LTP in the ACC was significantly reduced when compared to the control group. The LTP impairment was accompanied by an increase in the α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor-mediated excitatory synaptic transmission and a decrease in GABA inhibitory synaptic transmission in neurons of the ACC. Thus, our present findings show that neonatal ketamine exposure causes a significant LTP impairment in the ACC. We suggest that the imbalanced synaptic transmission is likely to contribute to ketamine-induced LTP impairment in the ACC.

GOLPH3 is a novel marker of poor prognosis and a potential therapeutic target in human renal cell carcinoma

Background:

Golgi phosphoprotein 3 (GOLPH3) has been reported to be involved in the development of several human cancers. The present study was conducted to investigate the expression of GOLPH3 and its prognostic significance in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Meanwhile, the function of GOLPH3 in human RCC was further investigated in cell culture models.

Methods:

Expression of GOLPH3 was examined in 43 fresh RCC tissues and paired adjacent normal renal tissues by real-time quantitative PCR and western blotting. Immunohistochemistry for GOLPH3 was performed on additional 218 RCC tissues. The clinical significance of GOLPH3 expression was analysed. Downregulation of GOLPH3 was performed using small-interfering RNA (siRNA) in Caki-1 and 786-O cells with high abundance of GOLPH3, and the effects of GOLPH3 silencing on cell proliferation, migration, invasion in vitro, and tumour growth in vivo were evaluated.

Results:

Expression of GOLPH3 was upregulated in the majority of the RCC clinical tissue specimens at both mRNA and protein levels. Clinicopathological analysis showed that GOLPH3 expression was significantly correlated with T stage (P<0.001), lymph-node status (P=0.003), distant metastasis (P<0.001), tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) stage (P<0.001), and Fuhman grade (P=0.001). Expression of GOLPH3 was inversely correlated with both overall and recurrence-free survival of RCC patients. Multivariate analysis showed that GOLPH3 expression was an independent prognostic indicator for patient's survival. Knockdown of the GOLPH3 expression reduced cell proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, migration, invasion, and tumour growth in xenograft model mice.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that GOLPH3 expression is likely to have important roles in RCC development and progression, and that GOLPH3 is a prognostic biomarker and a promising therapeutic target for RCC.

β-Phase poly(vinylidene fluoride) films encouraged more homogeneous cell distribution and more significant deposition of fibronectin towards the cell-material interface compared to α-phase poly(vinylidene fluoride) films

The piezoelectric response from β-phase poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) can potentially be exploited for biomedical application. We hypothesized that α and β-phase PVDF exert direct but different influence on cellular behavior. α- and β-phase PVDF films were synthesized through solution casting and characterized with FT-IR, XRD, AFM and PFM to ensure successful fabrication of α and β-phase PVDF films. Cellular evaluation with L929 mouse fibroblasts over one-week was conducted with AlamarBlue® metabolic assay and PicoGreen® proliferation assay. Immunostaining of fibronectin investigated the extent and distribution of extracellular matrix deposition. Image saliency analysis quantified differences in cellular distribution on the PVDF films. Our results showed that β-phase PVDF films with the largest area expressing piezoelectric effect elicited highest cell metabolic activity at day 3 of culture. Increased fibronectin adsorption towards the cell-material interface was shown on β-phase PVDF films. Image saliency analysis showed that fibroblasts on β-phase PVDF films were more homogeneously distributed than on α-phase PVDF films. Taken collectively, the different molecular packing of α and β-phase PVDF resulted in differing physical properties of films, which in turn induced differences in cellular behaviors. Further analysis of how α and β-phase PVDF may evoke specific cellular behavior to suit particular application will be intriguing.