TaqMan real-time PCR for detecting bovine viral diarrhea virus

The present study was aimed to establish a novel TaqMan real-time PCR (RTm-PCR) for detecting and typing bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), and also to develop a diagnostic protocol which simplifies sample collection and processing. Universal primers and TaqMan-MGB probes were designed from the known sequences of conserved 5' - and 3'-untranslated regions (5'UTR, 3'UTR) of the NADL strain of BVDV. Prior to optimizing the assay, cDNAs were transcribed in vitro to make standard curves. The sensitivity, specificity and stability (reproducibility) were evaluated. The RTm-PCR was tested on the 312 feces specimens collected from persistently infected (PI) calves. The results showed the optimum conditions for RTm-PCR were 17.0 μmol/L primer, 7.5 μmol/L probe and 51.4°C annealing temperature. The established TaqMan RTm-PCR assay could specially detect BVDV without detecting any other viruses. Its detection limit was 1.55×100 copies/μL for viral RNA. It was 10000-fold higher than conventional PCR with excellent specificity and reproducibility. 312 samples were tested using this method and universal PCR from six dairy farms, respectively. Positive detections were found in 49 and 44 feces samples, respectively. The occurrence rate was 89.80%. In conclusion, the established TaqMan RTm-PCR could rapidly detect BVDV and effectively identify PI cattle. The detection limit of RTm-PCR was 1.55 copies/μL. It will be beneficial for enhancing diagnosis and therapy efficacy and reduce losses in cattle farms.

Semi-autonomous Robotic Anastomoses of Vaginal Cuffs Using Marker Enhanced 3D Imaging and Path Planning

Autonomous robotic anastomosis has the potential to improve surgical outcomes by performing more consistent suture spacing and bite size compared to manual anastomosis. However, due to soft tissue's irregular shape and unpredictable deformation, performing autonomous robotic anastomosis without continuous tissue detection and three-dimensional path planning strategies remains a challenging task. In this paper, we present a novel three-dimensional path planning algorithm for Smart Tissue Autonomous Robot (STAR) to enable semi-autonomous robotic anastomosis on deformable tissue. The algorithm incorporates (i) continuous detection of 3D near infrared (NIR) markers manually placed on deformable tissue before the procedure, (ii) generating a uniform and consistent suture placement plan using 3D path planning methods based on the locations of the NIR markers, and (iii) updating the remaining suture plan after each completed stitch using a non-rigid registration technique to account for tissue deformation during anastomosis. We evaluate the path planning algorithm for accuracy and consistency by comparing the anastomosis of synthetic vaginal cuff tissue completed by STAR and a surgeon. Our test results indicate that STAR using the proposed method achieves 2.6 times better consistency in suture spacing and 2.4 times better consistency in suture bite sizes than the manual anastomosis.

A new reliable test for crossmatching: microplate hydrogel immunoassay technology

OBJECTIVES

To provide a novel assay to detect incomplete antibodies in the crossmatching test.

BACKGROUND

There is a requirement in China that both major and minor crossmatch tests are required. Among all methods of crossmatching, the tube anti-human globulin test requires tedious washing steps and is time-consuming, whereas the microcolumn gel immunoassay anti-human globulin test is susceptible to sample quality.

METHODS

The process of the microplate hydrogel immunoassay anti-human globulin test involves the use of our patented hydrogel chromatography medium and U-bottom microplates pre-coated with goat anti-human globulin (AHG). A mixture of red blood cells (RBCs) and serum is centrifuged through the hydrogel under precise conditions. In incompatible reactions, the sensitised RBCs are captured by the pre-coated AHG and form a layer over the bottom of the well, whereas in compatible reactions, the unbound RBCs form a button at the bottom of the well. The sensitivity of this new approach and the performance when testing old specimens were evaluated.

RESULTS

This approach was more convenient and slightly more sensitive than the tube anti-human globulin test and was superior to the microcolumn gel immunoassay when testing old specimens.

CONCLUSION

In general, this assay is suitable for the routine clinical use of crossmatching to detect incomplete antibodies.

[The plasma level of amyloid-β is associated with cognitive decline: a two years follow-up study in Xi'an rural areas]

Objective: To explore the relationship between plasma amyloid-β (Aβ) and cognitive decline during 2 year follow-up in a population-based cohort in Xi'an rural areas. Methods: The study was conducted in Qubao village in Xi'an suburbs cognitively normal residents over 40 years old were recruited from October 2014 to March 2015 and given a face-to-face standardized interview. Mini-mental state examination (MMSE) was employed to evaluate the global cognitive function, and quantification of plasma Aβ was measured by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at baseline. Two years later, MMSE was tested at the end of study. Then logistic regression was performed to analyze the relationship between baseline Aβ and cognitive change during 2 year follow-up. Results: A total of 1 020 participants completed the study, among whom 223 subjects (21.9%) presented MMSE scores decline (defined as MMSE scores decreased ≥2 points). Compared with those without decline, participants in the MMSE decline group were older (P<0.001) and had lower education level (P<0.001), while gender, hypertension, hyperlipemia, diabetes mellitus and APOE genotype were not significantly different between two groups. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that the MMSE score decline was slighter in the lower tertile of baseline Aβ(1)-40 compared with middle tertile (P=0.012), while MMSE decline were similar between different Aβ(1)-42 level groups and Aβ(1-42)/Aβ(1-40) ratio groups (P=0.758, P=0.671, respectively). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that MMSE scores in the lower baseline plasma Aβ(1-40) level declined more slowly (OR=0.565, 95%CI 0.379-0.845, P=0.005). However, the MMSE decline were also similar among different baseline plasma Aβ(1-42) levels groups and Aβ(1-42)/Aβ(1-40) ratio groups. Conclusion: Population with lower level of baseline plasma Aβ(1-40) manifests lower cognitive decline during 2 years, however further investigation on dynamics of plasma Aβ and long term follow up are needed.

[Exploring of a prognostic long non-coding RNA signature of hepatocellular carcinoma by using public database]

Objective: To explore an effective long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) signature in predicting the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma through the analysis on RNA sequencing data of hepatocellular carcinoma patients and peritumoral tissues in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Methods: The clinical characteristics and RNA sequencing data of 377 hepatocellular carcinoma patients were obtained from TCGA database by the end of February 2018. Then, differentially expressed lncRNAs between 50 pairs of tumor and peritumoral tissues were explored using student's t-test. Next, a lncRNA signature was established through LASSO Cox regression analysis. All the patients were divided into four groups (<P(25), P(25)-, P(50)-, ≥P(75)) based on the cut-off quartiles signature. Finally, compared with the control group (<P(25)), the hazard ratios (HRs) of three groups (P(25)-, P(50)-, ≥P(75)) were calculated by using Cox regression. The survival outcomes of patients in the four groups were compared to evaluate the capacity of the lncRNA signature model. Results: A total of 951 differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified between tumor and peritumoral tissues. A three-lncRNA signature, including LNCSRLR, MKLN1-AS and ZFPM2-AS1, was established to predict the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma patients. The outcome suggested that the death risk of the ≥P(75) group was 1.57 times larger than that of the <P(25) group (95%CI: 1.06-2.31, P<0.05). Conclusion: The three-lncRNA signature, which established by LNCSRLR, MKLN1-AS and ZFPM2-AS1, was significantly associated with the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma patients based on TCGA database data.

[Different anthropometric indices and incident risk of hypertension in elderly population: a prospective cohort study]

Objective: To explore the relationship between anthropometric indices and the incident risk of hypertension, compare novel anthropometric indices with traditional indices in hypertension prediction and establish hypertension prediction models among elderly Chinese. Methods: A total of 27 009 retirees from the Dongfeng Motor Corporation were recruited at baseline in 2008 and the first follow-up was conducted in 2013. After the exclusion of participants less than 60 years old, participants with hypertension, coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, and those with missing data, a total of 6 784 elderly participants were enrolled in this study. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between traditional anthropometric indices, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), novel anthropometric indices, visceral adiposity index (VAI), body shape index (ABSI), body roundness index (BRI), and the incident risk of hypertension. Meanwhile, a multivariate logistic regression model was used to establish hypertension prediction models. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to compare the prediction ability of different models. Results: A total of 1 787 incident cases of hypertension were identified, with the incidence of hypertension about 27.59%. Significant positive associations were detected between BMI, WC, WHtR, VAI, BRI and the incident risk of hypertension after adjusting for potential confounders (all P values<0.05). In men, the OR (95%CI) (upper tertile vs lower tertile) was 1.45 (1.22-1.73) for VAI, and 1.86 (1.55-2.23) for BRI. In women, the OR (95% CI) (upper tertile vs lower tertile) was 1.55 (1.22-1.96) for VAI, and 1.60 (1.27-2.01) for BRI. For ABSI, no significant association was observed in either men (OR (95%CI): 1.07 (0.90-1.28)) or women (OR (95%CI): 1.03 (0.82-1.29), both P values >0.05). The basic hypertension prediction model included age, drinking (only in men), education status (only in men), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and fasting blood glucose levels. Based on the basic prediction model, BMI (in men: AUC=0.697) and BRI (only in men: AUC=0.696) improved area under ROC curve (AUC) significantly (P<0.05). BMI was the strongest predictor in both men (AUC=0.697) and women (AUC=0.685) in the extended model. Conclusion: Significant positive associations were detected between BMI, WC, WHtR, VAI, BRI and the incident risk of hypertension among elderly Chinese. BMI was the strongest predictor in hypertension prediction model compared with other anthropometric indices.

Genome-wide identification and comparison of mRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs in porcine intramuscular, subcutaneous, retroperitoneal and mesenteric adipose tissues

Many types of RNAs, including messenger RNAs (mRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs), play crucial roles in regulating fat cell differentiation and tissue development. However, the expression profiles of these RNAs in different adipose tissues are still largely unknown. To shed light on this issue, we performed a transcriptome analysis of mRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs obtained from intramuscular adipose tissue, subcutaneous adipose tissue, retroperitoneal adipose tissue and mesenteric adipose tissue of Chinese Erhualian pigs. A number of differentially expressed mRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs were identified among the four adipose tissues. Tissue-specific analysis indicated that circRNAs exhibited the highest tissue specificity among mRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs, whereas intramuscular adipose tissue had the most tissue-specific genes among the four adipose tissues. Gene Ontology analysis showed that differentially expressed mRNAs among groups were involved mainly in lipid metabolism and immune inflammatory response processes. Furthermore, the co-expression network construction of mRNAs-lncRNAs revealed that several important lncRNAs, such as MSTRG.426159 and MSTRG.604206, might associate with lipid metabolic process. Taken together, these data provide a genome-wide resource of mRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs potentially involved in porcine fat metabolism, thus improving understanding of their function in diverse adipose tissues.

Abstract P2-07-03: Refining neoadjuvant predictors of three year distant metastasis free survival: Integrating volume change as measured by MRI with residual cancer burden

Background: Patients achieving a pathologic complete response (pCR) following neoadjuvant therapy have significantly improved event-free survival relative to those who do not; and pCR is an FDA-accepted endpoint to support accelerated approval of novel agents/combinations in the neoadjuvant treatment of high risk early stage breast cancer. Previous studies have shown that recurrence risk increased with increasing burden of residual disease (as assessed by the RCB index). As well, these studies suggest that patients with minimum residual disease (RCB-I class) also have favorable outcomes (comparable to those achieving a pCR) within high risk tumor subtypes. In this study, we assess whether integrating RCB with MRI functional tumor volume (FTV), which in itself is prognostic, can improve prediction of distant recurrence free survival (DRFS); and identify a subset of patients with minimal residual disease with comparable DRFS as those who achieved a pCR. Imaging tools can then be used to identify the subset that will do well early and guide the timing of surgical therapy.

Method: We performed a pooled analysis of 596 patients from the I-SPY2 TRIAL with RCB, pre-surgical MRI FTV data and known follow-up (median 2.5 years). We first assessed whether FTV predicts residual disease (pCR or pCR/RCB-I) using ROC analysis. We applied a power transformation to normalize the pre-surgical FTV distribution; and assessed its association with DRFS using a bi-variate Cox proportional hazard model adjusting for HR/HER2 subtype. We also fitted a bivariate Cox model of RCB index adjusting for subtype; and assessed whether adding pre-surgical FTV to this model further improves association with DRFS using a likelihood ratio (LR) test. For the Cox modeling, penalized splines approximation of the transformed FTV and RCB index with 2 degrees of freedom was used to allow for non-linear effects of FTV and RCB on DRFS.

Result: Pre-surgical MRI FTV is significantly associated with DRFS (Wald p&lt;0.00001), and more effective at predicting pCR/RCB-I than predicting pCR alone (AUC: 0.72 vs. 0.65). Larger pre-surgical FTV remains associated with worse DRFS adjusting for subtype (Wald p &lt;0.00001). The RCB index is also significantly associated with DRFS adjusting for subtype (Wald p&lt;0.00001). Adding FTV to a model containing RCB and subtype further improves association with DRFS (LR p=0.0007). RCB-I patients have excellent DRFS (94% at 3 years compared to 95% in the pCR group). Efforts are underway to identify an optimal threshold for dichotomizing pre-surgical FTV and FTV change measures for use in combination with pCR/RCB-I class to generate integrated RCB (iRCB) groups as a composite predictor of DRFS.

Conclusion: Pre-surgical MRI FTV is effective at predicting minimal residual disease (RCB0/I) in the I-SPY 2 TRIAL. Despite the association between FTV and RCB, FTV appears to provide independent added prognostic value (to RCB and subtype), suggesting that integrating MRI volume measures and RCB into a composite predictor may improve DRFS prediction.

Citation Format: Hylton NM, Symmans WF, Yau C, Li W, Hatzis C, Isaacs C, Albain KS, Chen Y-Y, Krings G, Wei S, Harada S, Datnow B, Fadare O, Klein M, Pambuccian S, Chen B, Adamson K, Sams S, Mhawech-Fauceglia P, Magliocco A, Feldman M, Rendi M, Sattar H, Zeck J, Ocal I, Tawfik O, Grasso LeBeau L, Sahoo S, Vinh T, Yang S, Adams A, Chien AJ, Ferero-Torres A, Stringer-Reasor E, Wallace A, Boughey JC, Ellis ED, Elias AD, Lang JE, Lu J, Han HS, Clark AS, Korde L, Nanda R, Northfelt DW, Khan QJ, Viscusi RK, Euhus DM, Edmiston KK, Chui SY, Kemmer K, Wood WC, Park JW, Liu MC, Olopade O, Tripathy D, Moulder SL, Rugo HS, Schwab R, Lo S, Helsten T, Beckwith H, Haugen PK, van't Veer LJ, Perlmutter J, Melisko ME, Wilson A, Peterson G, Asare AL, Buxton MB, Paoloni M, Clennell JL, Hirst GL, Singhrao R, Steeg K, Matthews JB, Sanil A, Berry SM, Abe H, Wolverton D, Crane EP, Ward KA, Nelson M, Niell BL, Oh K, Brandt KR, Bang DH, Ojeda-Fournier H, Eghtedari M, Sheth PA, Bernreuter WK, Umphrey H, Rosen MA, Dogan B, Yang W, Joe B, I-SPY 2 TRIAL Consortium, Yee D, Pusztai L, DeMichele A, Asare SM, Berry DA, Esserman LJ. Refining neoadjuvant predictors of three year distant metastasis free survival: Integrating volume change as measured by MRI with residual cancer burden [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-07-03.

Allogeneic adipose-derived stem cells suppress mTORC1 pathway in a murine model of systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to investigate the efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) transplantation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to determine the mechanism of ADSC transplantation.

METHODS

B6.MRL/lpr mice were administered ADSC intravenously every week from age 28 to 31 weeks, while the lupus control group and the normal control received phosphate buffered solution (PBS) on the same schedule.

RESULTS

Compared with the lupus control group, the ADSC treatment group had a significant improvement of histologic abnormalities, serologic abnormalities, and immunologic function. Anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies, spleen/weight ratio, deposits of C3/IgG in the kidney, and serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly decreased with the transplantation of ADSC. A significant decrease of the Th17/CD4⁺ T cell ratio in the spleen, the serum IL-17 concentration, as well as renal IL-17 expression was observed in the ADSC treatment group. Western blot results also showed that ADSC treatment had a lower expression of protein kinase B (Akt), p-Akt, mTOR, p-mTOR, p70S6K, p-p70S6K, and HIF-1α.

CONCLUSION

ADSC treatment can prevent the development of lupus nephritis and significantly ameliorate already-established disease. ADSC treatment reduced Akt, mTOR, p70S6K, HIF-1α, and that this inhibition can avert IL-17-induced inflammation, suggesting that ADSC may be a promising treatment for SLE.

Nutrient use efficiencies, losses, and abatement strategies for peri-urban dairy production systems

Manure management is an important aspect of urban livestock production that has a profound impact on metropolitan living. Data were collected from 28 dairy farms in peri-urban Beijing and analysed to determine farm nitrogen and phosphorus flows and costs associated with various manure management options to reduce nutrient losses. Dairy production in peri-urban Beijing was characterized by its use of high protein diets (16.3-17.0% crude protein), high reliance on imported feeds (92-98%), and low manure recycling (3.0-10.8%). Farms of 900-2000 cattle showed lower use efficiencies than farms of <900 cattle. Costs of manure handling ranged from 0.1 to 1.0 Yuan kg^-1 milk. Among various manure treatment options, biogas digesters with aerobic lagoons had the lowest N losses and costs, justifying their investments. In conclusion, peri-urban dairy production systems were contrasting with traditional systems and within their own systems in nutrient use efficiency and losses, which was mainly decided by their farm size. To improve the nutrient use efficiencies and reduce losses, farmers and managers of peri-urban dairy production system should have a full awareness of different feed intake and manure management.

[Evaluation of maxillary three-dimensional changes in maxillary protraction with alternating rapid palatal expansion and constriction based on the cone-beam computed tomography]

OBJECTIVE

To use the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to evaluate the three-dimensional (3D) changes of maxillary landmarks in the maxillary protraction with alternating rapid palatal expansion and constriction and with rapid palatal expansion, and to provide some clinical suggestions for the early treatment of Class III malocclusion.

METHODS

A total of 36 maxillary retrusive patients were included and randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either the intervention group (alternating rapid palatal expansion and constriction group, RPE/C) or the control group (rapid palatal expansion group, RPE). Randomization was accomplished with permuted block randomization based on participation sequence. The patients in the RPE/C were treated for 10 weeks (0.5 mm/d) with the repetition of two-week palatal expansion and two-week palatal constriction. The patients in the RPE were taught to complete rapid palatal expansion for 2 weeks (0.5 mm/d ). The patients were instructed to come to the office for the follow-up to ensure the correct procedures. Damaged expanders were repaired (or replaced) and rebanded quickly. Sequential CBCT images including pretreatment (T1), post-expansion (T2) and post-protraction (T3) were required for 3D reconstruction, establishment of landmarks, measurement and analysis by Mimics 10.01.

RESULTS

There was significant forward movement of subspinale (A) in the RPE/C after the treatment with (3.06±1.29) mm, compared with RPE (2.16±1.27) mm, P<0.05. There were more symmetrical changes of the landmarks in the RPE/C and there was no statistic significance of the entire treatment time between the two groups. Moreover, the maxillary skeletal landmarks had the following 3D changes of a forward and downward movement during the expansion stages T2-T1, a forward and upward movement during the protraction stages T3-T2 and a forward and downward movement during the total treatments T3-T1 compared with the control group. And the width between the bilateral landmarks increased during the expansion stages T2-T1, narrowed down during the protraction stages T3-T2 and increased during the total treatments T3-T1.

CONCLUSION

The maxillary protraction with alternating rapid palatal expansion and constriction provided clinical benefits on maxillary advancement and symmetrical changes in the orthopedic treatment of the patients with maxillary retrognathism and it required further study on the orthodontic analysis and measurements of CBCT.

Establishment of a new fish cell line from the caudal fin of golden pompano Trachinotus ovatus and its susceptibility to iridovirus

A new cell line derived from the caudal fin of golden pompano Trachinotus ovatus (TOCF) was successfully established and characterized. TOCF cells grew well at 28° C in L-15 medium supplemented with 10% foetal bovine serum (FBS). The cell line has been subcultured in more than 100 passages. Molecular characterization of 18S ribosomal (r)RNA and cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) confirmed that the TOCF cells were derived indeed from T. ovatus. TOCF cells have a modal chromosome number of 54. It was further showed that TOCF cells were transfected successfully with pEGFP-N3 and pDsRED-N1 plasmid, suggesting that TOCF cells could be used to research gene functions in vitro. Viral susceptibility tests showed that TOCF cells were susceptible to Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV), observed by the occurrence of the cytopathic effect (CPE) with the formation of inclusion bodies. In addition, the expression of major capsid protein (MCP) gene of SGIV changed during virus infection in TOCF cells. Thus, our present results described the characteristic of a TOCF cell line that could be a valuable tool for genetic manipulation, as well as isolation and propagation of iridovirus studies.

Highly sensitive flexible three-axis tactile sensors based on the interface contact resistance of microstructured graphene

The lack of high-performance tactile sensors, especially for pressure/force, is a huge obstacle for the widespread application of intelligent robots. Current pressure sensors are often operated in the high range of pressure and normal direction, showing a little ability in the low range of pressure and three-axis direction simultaneously. Herein, a highly sensitive flexible tactile sensor with three-axis force sensing capacity is presented by combining microstructured polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) arrays and a reduced graphene oxide (rGO) film. The deformation of microstructured rGO/PDMS results in a change in the contact area between the rGO film and electrode, leading to a high sensitivity of -1.71 kPa-1 in the low range pressure of 0-225 Pa with a fast response time of 6 ms at a large feature size of 100 μm. To realize three-axis sensing, a sensing unit was built up, which was composed of the adjacent four parts of patterns and electrodes underneath a bump. A mechanical model of the exerted spatial force was established to calculate each axis force component via the deformation of the rGO/PDMS pattern. The experimental results show that the current difference between the adjacent two parts has a strong relationship with the applied force. As a proof of concept, we have demonstrated a 3 × 3 array sensor for arbitrary force sensing. Our tactile sensor would be used in transmitting information from a gentle spatial force and would exhibit broad applications as e-skin in integrated robots.

Inverse association between plasma homocysteine concentrations and type 2 diabetes mellitus among a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Plasma homocysteine concentrations have been reported to be associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with controversial findings. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between plasma homocysteine concentrations and T2DM.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A cross-sectional study including 19,085 eligible participants derived from the Dongfeng-Tongji cohort was conducted. Plasma homocysteine concentrations were measured by Abbott Architect i2000 Automatic analyzer and T2DM was defined according to American Diabetes Association criteria. Logistic regression model was used to explore the association between plasma homocysteine concentrations and T2DM. The prevalence of T2DM was 19.0% in the whole population (mean age 62.9 years), 21.8% in males, and 17.1% in females. In the multivariable logistic regression analyses, compared with those in the lowest quintile, the OR (95% CI) of T2DM was 1.05 (0.92-1.21), 0.99 (0.86-1.14), 0.90 (0.78-1.05), and 0.77 (0.66-0.90) for quintile 2 to quintile 5 of homocysteine concentrations after adjustment for potential confounders (P for trend < 0.0001). Homocysteine concentrations were associated with decreased T2DM prevalence risk (OR = 0.88 per SD increase of homocysteine concentration; 95% CI: 0.84-0.93). A significant interaction between homocysteine concentrations and drinking status on T2DM prevalence risk was observed (P for interaction = 0.03). The inverse association of plasma homocysteine concentrations with T2DM prevalence risk was observed in non-drinkers but not in current drinkers.

CONCLUSION

Plasma homocysteine concentrations were inversely correlated with T2DM among a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population.

Associations between daily cooking duration and the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population: A cross-sectional study

Experimental and epidemiological studies indicated that ambient air pollution was positively associated with diabetes. Few studies investigated the associations between household air pollution, for example, daily cooking duration and diabetes or prediabetes. We conducted a cross-sectional study to investigate the associations of daily cooking duration with the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes among a middle-aged and elderly population. A total of 26 089 individuals (11 250 males and 14 839 females) derived from the Dongfeng-Tongji cohort study were included. Daily cooking duration was assessed by questionnaire. Diabetes and prediabetes were identified according to the criterion of American Diabetes Association. No significant association was observed between daily cooking duration and the prevalence risk of diabetes (odds ratio[OR] = 0.97, 95% confidence interval[CI]: [0.81-1.16], P for trend = .74); however, longer daily cooking duration was associated with higher prevalence risk of prediabetes (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.07-1.47; P for trend = .003) and hyperglycemia (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.05-1.41; P for trend = .005). Our study suggested that daily cooking duration was not associated with diabetes but with higher prevalence risk of prediabetes/hyperglycemia in a middle-aged and elderly Chinese population.

Rapid and sensitive detection of redspotted grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV) infection by aptamer-coat protein-aptamer sandwich enzyme-linked apta-sorbent assay (ELASA)

Redspotted grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV) is one of the most devastating pathogens in the aquaculture of the grouper, Epinephlus sp., worldwide. The early and rapid diagnosis of RGNNV is important for the prevention of RGNNV infection. In this study, an aptamer (A10)-based sandwich enzyme-linked apta-sorbent assay (ELASA) was developed for RGNNV diagnosis. This sandwich ELASA showed high specificity for the RGNNV coat protein (CP) and virions in virus-infected cells and tissues. At the optimized working concentration of 200 nM of aptamer, the ELASA could detect RGNNV in the lysates of as few as 4 × 10³ RGNNV-infected GB cells. Incubation for 10 min was sufficient to produce accurate results. The sandwich ELASA was most stable at incubation temperatures of 4-25°C, but could still distinguish RGNNV-infected samples from the controls at 37°C. It could detect RGNNV infection in brain lysates diluted 1/10, with results consistent with those of reverse transcription PCR, although with 10% less sensitivity. The main equipment required includes dissection tools, a water bath, Pierce™ Streptavidin Coated Plates and a microplate reader. The sandwich ELASA has great potential utility for the rapid and sensitive diagnosis of RGNNV in its early stages by fish farmers.

Short- and long-term outcomes of minimally invasive esophagectomy in elderly patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of elderly patients undergoing surgery for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, there are few studies on short- and long-term outcomes of minimally invasive esophagectomy (MIE) in such patients. The purpose of this study was to report both short- and long-term outcomes of MIE in elderly patients with ESCC.

METHODS

A total of 273 patients with ESCC underwent MIE at our hospital from January 2010 to December 2016. Patients were divided into elderly (≥70 years) and nonelderly (<70 years) groups based on age at the time of surgery. Groups were compared with regard to general preoperative data, intraoperative data, postoperative 30-day complications and their severity, pathological result, recurrence, overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) rates.

RESULTS

The elderly group was characterized by higher Charlson Comorbidity Index >2 and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade. Comparisons of other general preoperative data showed no significant differences. In addition, there were no significant differences in short-term outcomes except for postoperative 30-day complication rate. Although 30-day postoperative complication rate was higher in the elderly group compared with the nonelderly group, the incidence of major complications was similar between groups. Cancer recurrence, 5-year OS, and 5-year DFS rates also were similar between groups.

CONCLUSION

Although elderly patients with ESCC had higher Charlson Comorbidity Index and ASA grade, they could achieve short- and long-term outcomes of MIE similar to those of nonelderly patients.

Genome-wide association analysis identifies potential regulatory genes for eumelanin pigmentation in chicken plumage

Plumage color in chicken is determined by the proportion of eumelanin and pheomelanin pigmentation. As the main ingredient in plumage melanin, eumelanin plays a key role in the dark black, brown and grey coloration. However, very few studies have been performed to identify the related genes and mutations on a genome-wide scale. Herein, a resource family consisting of one backcross population and two F2 cross populations between a black roster and Yukou Brown I parent stockbreed was constructed for identification of genes related to eumelanin pigmentation. Chickens with eumelanin in their plumage were classified as the case group, and the rest were considered the control group. A genome-wide association study of this phenotype and genotypes using Affymetrix 600K HD SNP arrays in this F2 family revealed 13 significantly associated SNPs and in 10 separate genes on chromosomes 1, 2, 3 and 5. Based on previous studies in model species, we inferred that genes, including NUAK family kinase 1 (NUAK1) and sonic hedgehog (SHH), may play roles in the development of neural crest cells or melanoblasts during the embryonic period, which may also affect the eumelanin pigmentation. Our results facilitate the understanding of the genetic basis of eumelanin pigmentation in chicken plumage.

Establishment and characterization of a cell line from the head kidney of golden pompano Trachinotus ovatus and its application in toxicology and virus susceptibility

A cell line derived from the head kidney of golden pompano Trachinotus ovatus (TOHK) was established and characterized in this study. The TOHK cells grew most rapidly at 28° C and the optimum foetal bovine serum concentration in L-15 medium was 10%. The TOHK cells have a diploid chromosome number of 2N = 54. The transfection efficiency of TOHK cells was 7·5% at the 15th passage and 72% at the 40th passage. The transfection efficiency in TOHK cells was high, so these cells are suitable for foreign gene expression. The cytotoxic effects of heavy metals and extracellular products from Vibrio anguillarum and Vibrio alginolyticus were demonstrated in TOHK cells, so this TOHK cell line could also be applied in environmental monitoring of heavy metals and pathogenic bacteria. TOHK cell line showed high virus susceptibility, such as grouper nervous necrosis virus (GNNV) and Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV). Then, TOHK cell line could be used for the study of viral pathogenesis and the development of antiviral strategies.

The determination and application of (87) Sr/(86) Sr ratio in verifying geographical origin of wheat

As ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio plays a significant role in authenticating the geographical origin of foodstuff, it is important to identify where the ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr signature in food comes from, and the methods of ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio analysis in food and environmental samples. Wheat with three genotypes, soil and groundwater samples were collected from three regions of China during harvest time of 2014. The ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratios in the samples were determined by thermal ionization mass spectrometer in order to investigate the possible source of ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr in wheat, and the concentrations of Rb and Sr in wheat and soils were also detected by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and combined with ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio in order to trace the geographical origin of wheat. The ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio, the contents Rb and Sr, and Rb/Sr ratio of wheat and soil samples showed significant differences among three regions. The ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratios and the concentrations of Rb and Sr in soils were higher than those in corresponding wheat. The ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio in wheat was identical to that corresponding soil NH₄ NO₃ extracts (labile fraction of soil) and groundwater. Wheat uptake more Rb than Sr. 3D distribution of ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr, Rb and Sr could identify wheat samples from different regions clearly. The ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio of wheat reflects the ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio of the associated environment including soil and groundwater. It is expected that the use the parameters of ⁸⁷ Sr/⁸⁶ Sr ratio, the contents of Rb and Sr will allow to trace geographical origin of wheat. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Systemic lupus erythematosus and risk of preterm birth: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

We performed a meta-analysis to identify the association between systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and preterm birth. In this study, we studied the effects of SLE, SLE disease activity, a history of nephritis and active nephritis on preterm birth. Searches were conducted before 20 May 2016 of PubMed, Embase, Medline and Cochrane Library of literature and article reference lists. Eleven observational case-control studies and thirteen cohort studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled relative risk (RR) for the risk of preterm birth in SLE patients versus controls was 2.05 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.72-3.32); for active SLE patients versus inactive was 2.98 (95% CI: 2.32-3.83); for SLE patients with a history of lupus nephritis versus those without nephritis it was 1.62 (95% CI: 1.35-1.95); and for SLE patients with active nephritis versus those with quiescent nephritis it was 1.78 (95% CI: 1.17-2.70). In summary, this study identified a significant association in the above results. This association was more significant in active SLE patients versus inactive. With respect to SLE itself, active inflammation (such as disease activity) may be more hazardous for the management of the pregnancy. This suggests that it is essential to control disease activity in order to achieve a better outcome of SLE pregnancy.

[A review of progress in research of effect of air pollutants on fetal growth]

Slow fetal growth is a global public health concern because it might be associated with many diseases later in life. With the progress of technology to measure long-term air pollution exposure. Many epidemiological studies have evaluated the effects of maternal air pollutant exposure on fetal growth. In this paper, we summarize the research progress in this field after the analysis on the related literatures retrieved from the databases of Medline and Web of Science.

FSH and eCG impact follicles development and expression of ovarian FSHR and caspase-9 in mice

The study aimed to investigate the effects of FSH and eCG on the ovarian and follicular development, expression levels of FSHR and caspase-9 of ovaries in vivo. One hundred and five prepuberty mice were allocated into FSH-1, FSH-2, FSH-3, eCG-1, eCG-2, eCG-3 groups and control group (CG). Mice in FSH-1, FSH-2 and FSH-3 were intramuscularly injected with 5, 10 and 20 IU FSH twice (on day 0 and 4), respectively. Mice in eCG-1, eCG-2 and eCG-3 were intraperitoneally injected with 10, 20 and 40 IU eCG on day 0 and 4. Mice in the CG were injected with 0.5 ml normal saline on day 0 and 4. Left and right ovaries of each mouse were dissected aseptically on days 7, 14 and 21, respectively. The results showed that on days 14 and 21 the ovarian sizes and follicle numbers of FSH-3 and eCG-3 groups were greater than CG (P<0.05). FSHR mRNA of FSH-2 and eCG-1 were higher than CG on days 14 and 21 (P<0.05). FSHR proteins of FSH-3 were higher than CG on days 14 and 21 (P<0.05). Caspase-9 mRNA in FSH and eCG groups was less than CG. There were positive correlations between follicle numbers and FSH and eCG doses. FSHR protein expressions had positive correlations between ovarian weights and sizes of ovary and follicle numbers (r=0.971, P<0.05) in FSH-treated mice. Serum FSH concentrations of FSH-2, FSH-3, eCG-2 and eCG-3 groups were greater than that of CG. In conclusion, eCG and FSH promoted the ovarian development, follicle genesis, FSH secretion, FSHR mRNA and protein expressions in ovaries of mice. FSH and eCG inhibited the expression of ovarian caspase-9 mRNA.

[Influence of data quality on early warning sensitivity of syndromic surveillance system based on medical institutions]

Objective: To evaluate the influence of data quality on the sensitivity of early warning syndromic surveillance system based on medical institutions in Qianjiang, Hubei province and explore the relationship between data quality and sensitivity of early warning of the system. Methods: The delay reporting rate and underreporting rate were calculated for the evaluation of the data quality. Data obtained from semi-synthetic simulated outbreak and area under the curve (AUC) were used in combination to test the sensitivity of early warning of various models and select the optimal model. Time-series generalized additive model (GAM) was used to analyze the curve fitting and threshold effect between data quality and early warning sensitivity of the system. Results: A total of 179 905 cases were reported from April 1, 2012 to January 31, 2014, in which 8 744 were not reported timely (16.45%). Averagely 416 reporting were delayed in each month. There were 2 566 cases which were underreported (4.83%). Compared with other early warning models, i.e. Cumulative Sum (CUSUM), Shewhart, Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA), Early Aberration Reporting System (EARS-3C), the MA model had the maximum area under the curve (AUC=0.93), and the difference was significant (P<0.001). The early warning sensitivity ranged from 84.89% to 97.25% during the operation period of the syndromic surveillance system. Underreporting had influence on early warning sensitivity, when underreporting rate was over 2.78%, the sensitivity would decrease obviously. No obvious associations were observed between the delay reporting rate and early warning sensitivity of the system. Conclusion: The data quality had influence on the early warning sensitivity of the syndromic surveillance system based on medical institution in Qianjiang. In the context of this study, underreporting had the main influence on the sensitivity of early warning.

Critical role of miR-125b in lipogenesis by targeting stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1)

Alteration of gene expression tightly regulates lipogenesis. Stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1), a key enzyme in lipogenesis, catalyzes the conversion of SFA to MUFA, and inhibition of its activity impairs lipid synthesis. As posttranscriptional regulators, microRNAs are involved in many pathways of lipid metabolism; however, their effect on SCD-1 has not been reported. In this study, miR-125b was identified as a potential regulator of SCD-1 using bioinformatics analysis. Here, we validated SCD-1 as the target of miR-125b using a dual luciferase assay. During adipogenesis, a synthetic mimic or inhibitor was used to overexpress or reduce the expression of miR-125b in porcine adipocytes. Overexpression of miR-125b reduced the accumulation of lipid droplets and triglycerides concentration and repressed SCD-1 protein expression and MUFA composition. The inhibitor had the reverse effect. Small interfering RNA against tested in adipocytes further proved the direct correlation between miR-125b and SCD-1. Moreover, in vivo experiments in mice showed that injection of miR-125b expression vector decreased the hepatic triglycerides concentration relative to saline. This study indicated that miR-125b regulates lipogenesis by targeting SCD-1; therefore, miR-125b might be applied in therapy of lipid metabolism disorders.

Multiprotein bridging factor 2 regulates the expression of the fibroin heavy chain gene by interacting with Bmdimmed in the silkworm Bombyx mori

Multiprotein bridging factor 2 (MBF2) was first isolated from the posterior silk gland of Bombyx mori. However, its function in B. mori is still unknown. Herein, MBF2 transcripts were detected mainly in the posterior silk gland and Malpighian tubules of B. mori larvae via a quantitative PCR analysis. An analysis of temporal expression patterns showed that the expression pattern of MBF2 was the opposite of that of the fibroin heavy chain (fibH) gene, as its expression was high during the fourth-instar moulting stage, decreased gradually during the fifth-instar feeding stage and disappeared at the end of the fifth-instar phase. Furthermore, bimolecular fluorescent complementation and Far-Western blot assays showed that MBF2 interacted with the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor Bmdimmed. Dual luciferase reporter assays showed that MBF2 down-regulated the promoter activity of fibH and inhibited the effect of Bmdimmed (Bmdimm) on fibH expression. MBF2 expression was induced in silk glands after treatment with 20-hydroxyecdysone in vivo and in vitro. These findings suggest that MBF2 is a transcriptional repressor that is involved in controlling the regulation of the fibH gene in the posterior silk gland by interacting with Bmdimm.

Development and characterization of aptamer-based enzyme-linked apta-sorbent assay for the detection of Singapore grouper iridovirus infection

AIMS

Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV) is a devastating aquaculture virus responsible for heavy economic losses to grouper, Epinephelus sp. aquaculture. The aim of this study was to develop a rapid and sensitive detection method for SGIV infections in infected groupers.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We previously generated DNA aptamers against SGIV-infected cells. In this study, we established and characterized a novel aptamer (Q3)-based enzyme-linked apta-sorbent assay (ELASA) for the detection of SGIV infection in Epinephelus coioides. The Q3-based ELASA could detect SGIV infection rapidly in vitro and in vivo, with high specificity and stability. Q3-based ELASA specifically recognized SGIV-infected cells, but not other-virus-infected cells or uninfected cells. Q3-based ELASA detected SGIV infection in a dose-dependent manner at Q3 concentrations as low as 125 nmol l(-1) . The results in relation to SGIV-infected cells (5 × 10(4) ), incubation time (1 min) and incubation temperature (37°C) demonstrated that Q3-based ELASA could detect SGIV infection quickly and stably, superior to antibody-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Q3-based ELASA could detect the presence of SGIV infection in kidney, liver and spleen samples in vivo, at dilutions of 1/50, 1/100 and 1/50 respectively. The complete detection process took 1-2 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Q3-based ELASA could be a useful tool for diagnosing SGIV infection.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This is the first developed aptamer-based ELASA for detecting SGIV infection, and is widely applicable in grouper aquaculture industry in light of its rapidity, and high specificity and stability.

Establishment of a new cell line from the snout tissue of golden pompano Trachinotus ovatus, and its application in virus susceptibility

A new marine-fish cell line, designated GPS, was established from the snout tissue of golden pompano Trachinotus ovatus. GPS cells multiplied well in Leibovitz's L-15 containing 10% foetal bovine serum (FBS) at 28° C and the cells have been subcultured for >60 passages. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of 16S ribosomal (r)RNA confirmed the origin of this cell line from T. ovatus. Chromosome analysis showed that GPS cells exhibited chromosomal aneuploidy with a modal chromosome number of 54. Bright green fluorescence signal was observed in enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)-N3 transfected cells, indicating that GPS cells could be used to investigate gene functions in vitro. The GPS cells were highly susceptible to Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV), which was demonstrated by the presence of severe cytopathic effect (CPE) and increased viral titres. Real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis showed that the viral gene transcription and protein synthesis occurred during SGIV infection in GPS cells. Thus, this study described the characteristic of a new cell line from the snout tissue of T. ovatus that could be used as a tool for propagation of iridovirus and genetic manipulation to investigate host-pathogen interactions.

Enhanced mitogenesis in stromal vascular cells derived from subcutaneous adipose tissue of Wagyu compared with those of Angus cattle

Japanese Wagyu cattle are well known for their extremely high marbling and lower subcutaneous adipose tissue compared with Angus cattle. However, mechanisms for differences in adipose deposition are unknown. The objective of this paper was to evaluate breed differences in the structure of subcutaneous adipose tissue, adipogenesis, and mitogenesis of stromal vascular (SV) cells between Wagyu and Angus cattle. Subcutaneous biopsy samples were obtained from 5 Wagyu (BW = 302 ± 9 kg) and 5 Angus (BW = 398 ± 12 kg) heifers at 12 mo of age, and samples were divided into 3 pieces for histological examination, biochemical analysis, and harvest of SV cells. Adipogenesis of SV cells was assessed by the expression of adipogenic markers and Oil Red-O staining, while mitogenesis was evaluated by an MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium dromide) test, phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and protein kinase B (PKB; AKT). Based on histological analysis, Wagyu had larger adipocytes compared with Angus. At the tissue level, protein expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARG) in Wagyu was much lower compared with that of Angus. Similarly, a lower mRNA expression of PPARG was found in Wagyu SV cells. No significant difference was observed for the zinc finger protein 423 (ZNF423) expression between Wagyu and Angus. As assessed by Oil Red-O staining, Wagyu SV cells possessed a notable trend of lower adipogenic capability. Interestingly, higher mitogenic ability was discovered in Wagyu SV cells, which was associated with an elevated phosphorylation of ERK1/2. There was no difference in AKT phosphorylation of SV cells between Wagyu and Angus. Moreover, exogenous fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) enhanced mitogenesis and ERK1/2 phosphorylation of SV cells to a greater degree in Angus compared with that in Wagyu. Expression of transforming growth factor β 3 (TGFB3) and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) in Wagyu SV cells was lower than that of Angus, providing potential clues for breed differences on proliferation of SV cells in these two cattle breeds. The results of this study suggest that subcutaneous adipose-derived SV cells of Wagyu possess a lower trend of adipogenesis but higher mitogenesis compared with those of Angus.