Measurement of Azimuthal Asymmetries in Inclusive Charged Dipion Production in e^{+}e^{-} Annihilations at sqrt[s]=3.65 GeV

We present a measurement of the azimuthal asymmetries of two charged pions in the inclusive process e^{+}e^{-}→ππX, based on a data set of 62  pb^{-1} at the center-of-mass energy of 3.65 GeV collected with the BESIII detector. These asymmetries can be attributed to the Collins fragmentation function. We observe a nonzero asymmetry, which increases with increasing pion momentum. As our energy scale is close to that of the existing semi-inclusive deep inelastic scattering experimental data, the measured asymmetries are important inputs for the global analysis of extracting the quark transversity distribution inside the nucleon and are valuable to explore the energy evolution of the spin-dependent fragmentation function.

Bottom-Up Synthesis and Sensor Applications of Biomimetic Nanostructures

The combination of nanotechnology, biology, and bioengineering greatly improved the developments of nanomaterials with unique functions and properties. Biomolecules as the nanoscale building blocks play very important roles for the final formation of functional nanostructures. Many kinds of novel nanostructures have been created by using the bioinspired self-assembly and subsequent binding with various nanoparticles. In this review, we summarized the studies on the fabrications and sensor applications of biomimetic nanostructures. The strategies for creating different bottom-up nanostructures by using biomolecules like DNA, protein, peptide, and virus, as well as microorganisms like bacteria and plant leaf are introduced. In addition, the potential applications of the synthesized biomimetic nanostructures for colorimetry, fluorescence, surface plasmon resonance, surface-enhanced Raman scattering, electrical resistance, electrochemistry, and quartz crystal microbalance sensors are presented. This review will promote the understanding of relationships between biomolecules/microorganisms and functional nanomaterials in one way, and in another way it will guide the design and synthesis of biomimetic nanomaterials with unique properties in the future.

CuO nanothorn arrays on three-dimensional copper foam as an ultra-highly sensitive and efficient nonenzymatic glucose sensor

A novel glucose sensor based on a CuO nanothorns/Cu foam was prepared using a low-cost and facile method.

Fabrication of cuprous sulfide nanorods supported on copper foam for nonenzymatic amperometric determination of glucose and hydrogen peroxide

Cuprous sulfide nanothorns were fabricated on copper foam for nonenzymatic amperometric determination of glucose and hydrogen peroxide.

Observation of a Neutral Structure near the DD[over ¯]^{*} Mass Threshold in e^{+}e^{-}→(DD[over ¯]^{*})^{0}π^{0} at sqrt[s]=4.226 and 4.257 GeV

A neutral structure in the DD[over ¯]^{*} system around the DD[over ¯]^{*} mass threshold is observed with a statistical significance greater than 10σ in the processes e^{+}e^{-}→D^{+}D^{*-}π^{0}+c.c. and e^{+}e^{-}→D^{0}D[over ¯]^{*0}π^{0}+c.c. at sqrt[s]=4.226 and 4.257 GeV in the BESIII experiment. The structure is denoted as Z_{c}(3885)^{0}. Assuming the presence of a resonance, its pole mass and width are determined to be [3885.7_{-5.7}^{+4.3}(stat)±8.4(syst)]  MeV/c^{2} and [35_{-12}^{+11}(stat)±15(syst)]  MeV, respectively. The Born cross sections are measured to be σ[e^{+}e^{-}→Z_{c}(3885)^{0}π^{0},Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→DD[over ¯]^{*}]=[77±13(stat)±17(syst)]  pb at 4.226 GeV and [47±9(stat)±10(syst)]  pb at 4.257 GeV. The ratio of decay rates B[Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→D^{+}D^{*-}+c.c.]/B[Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→D^{0}D[over ¯]^{*0}+c.c.] is determined to be 0.96±0.18(stat)±0.12(syst), consistent with no isospin violation in the process, Z_{c}(3885)^{0}→DD[over ¯]^{*}.

Measurement of the Absolute Branching Fraction for Λ_{c}^{+}→Λe^{+}ν_{e}

We report the first measurement of the absolute branching fraction for Λ_{c}^{+}→Λe^{+}ν_{e}. This measurement is based on 567  pb^{-1} of e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data produced at sqrt[s]=4.599  GeV, which is just above the Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} threshold. The data were collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage rings. The branching fraction is determined to be B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λe^{+}ν_{e})=[3.63±0.38(stat)±0.20(syst)]%, representing a significant improvement in precision over the current indirect determination. As the branching fraction for Λ_{c}^{+}→Λe^{+}ν_{e} is the benchmark for those of other Λ_{c}^{+} semileptonic channels, our result provides a unique test of different theoretical models, which is the most stringent to date.

Observation of a Neutral Charmoniumlike State Z_{c}(4025)^{0} in e^{+}e^{-}→(D^{*}D[over ¯]^{*})^{0}π^{0}

We report a study of the process e^{+}e^{-}→(D^{*}D[over ¯]^{*})^{0}π^{0} using e^{+}e^{-} collision data samples with integrated luminosities of 1092 pb^{-1} at sqrt[s]=4.23 GeV and 826 pb^{-1} at sqrt[s]=4.26 GeV collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring. We observe a new neutral structure near the (D^{*}D[over ¯]^{*})^{0} mass threshold in the π^{0} recoil mass spectrum, which we denote as Z_{c}(4025)^{0}. Assuming a Breit-Wigner line shape, its pole mass and pole width are determined to be (4025.5_{-4.7}^{+2.0}±3.1) MeV/c^{2} and (23.0±6.0±1.0) MeV, respectively. The Born cross sections of e^{+}e^{-}→Z_{c}(4025)^{0}π^{0}→(D^{*}D[over ¯]^{*})^{0}π^{0} are measured to be (61.6±8.2±9.0) pb at sqrt[s]=4.23 GeV and (43.4±8.0±5.4) pb at sqrt[s]=4.26 GeV. The first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic.

Observation of Z_{c}(3900)^{0} in e^{+}e^{-}→π^{0}π^{0}J/ψ

Using a data sample collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring, we observe a new neutral state Z_{c}(3900)^{0} with a significance of 10.4σ. The mass and width are measured to be 3894.8±2.3±3.2  MeV/c^{2} and 29.6±8.2±8.2  MeV, respectively, where the first error is statistical and the second systematic. The Born cross section for e^{+}e^{-}→π^{0}π^{0}J/ψ and the fraction of it attributable to π^{0}Z_{c}(3900)^{0}→π^{0}π^{0}J/ψ in the range E_{c.m.}=4.19-4.42  GeV are also determined. We interpret this state as the neutral partner of the four-quark candidate Z_{c}(3900)^{±}.

Observation and Spin-Parity Determination of the X(1835) in J/ψ→γK_{S}^{0}K_{S}^{0}η

We report an observation of the process J/ψ→γX(1835)→γK_{S}^{0}K_{S}^{0}η at low K_{S}^{0}K_{S}^{0} mass with a statistical significance larger than 12.9σ using a data sample of 1.31×10^{9} J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector. In this region of phase space the K_{S}^{0}K_{S}^{0} system is dominantly produced through the f_{0}(980). By performing a partial wave analysis, we determine the spin parity of the X(1835) to be J^{PC}=0^{-+}. The mass and width of the observed X(1835) are 1844±9(stat)_{-25}^{+16}(syst)  MeV/c^{2} and 192_{-17}^{+20}(stat)_{-43}^{+62}(syst)  MeV, respectively, which are consistent with the results obtained by BESIII in the channel J/ψ→γπ^{+}π^{-}η^{'}.

Synergistic effects of gene polymorphisms of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system on essential hypertension in Kazakhs in Xinjiang

OBJECTIVE

To assess the synergistic effects of gene polymorphisms of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) on essential hypertension (EH) in Kazakhs in Xinjiang.

METHODS

A cross-sectional case-control association study was conducted in 52 1 hypertensive and 623 normotensive subjects of Kazakh ethnicity on eight common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) interspersed over five genes of the RAAS. SNPs were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Interactions among the SNPs were analyzed by the multifactor dimensionality reduction method (MDR).

RESULTS

In single-locus analysis, subjects with AGT -6G, ACE D, and CYP11B2 -344C had increased susceptibility to EH (OR: 1.249; 1.425; 1.201). When subgrouped by sex, males with the t allele of REN Taq I had decreased risk for EH (OR: 0.529), and those with AGT -6G and CYP11B2 -344 C had increased risk for EH (OR: 1.498; 1.449). In females, carrying ACE D increased the risk for EH. (OR: 1.327). In six AGT haplotypes, H1 was protective, while H3 increased susceptibility to EH (OR: 0.683; 2.025). Interaction analysis by MDR showed that there was a strong synergistic effect between ACE I/D and CY11B2 (T-344C) and a moderate interaction between both ACE I/D and CY11B2 T-344C and AGT A-6G.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a strong synergistic effect between ACE I/D and CY11B2 T-344C and a moderate effect between both ACE I/D and CY11B2 T-344C and AGT A-6G. AGT -6G, ACE D, and CY11B2 -344C increased susceptibility to EH. REN Taq I, AGT -6G, CY11B2 -344 C and ACE D were associated with male and female EH, respectively. H1 and H3 of AGT were protective and risk haplotypes, respectively.

Synergistic effects of gene polymorphisms of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system on essential hypertension in Kazakhs in Xinjiang

OBJECTIVE

To assess the synergistic effects of gene polymorphisms of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) on essential hypertension (EH) in Kazakhs in Xinjiang.

METHODS

A cross-sectional case-control association study was conducted in 52 1 hypertensive and 623 normotensive subjects of Kazakh ethnicity on eight common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) interspersed over five genes of the RAAS. SNPs were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Interactions among the SNPs were analyzed by the multifactor dimensionality reduction method (MDR).

RESULTS

In single-locus analysis, subjects with AGT -6G, ACE D, and CYP11B2 -344C had increased susceptibility to EH (OR: 1.249; 1.425; 1.201). When subgrouped by sex, males with the t allele of REN Taq I had decreased risk for EH (OR: 0.529), and those with AGT -6G and CYP11B2 -344 C had increased risk for EH (OR: 1.498; 1.449). In females, carrying ACE D increased the risk for EH. (OR: 1.327). In six AGT haplotypes, H1 was protective, while H3 increased susceptibility to EH (OR: 0.683; 2.025). Interaction analysis by MDR showed that there was a strong synergistic effect between ACE I/D and CY11B2 (T-344C) and a moderate interaction between both ACE I/D and CY11B2 T-344C and AGT A-6G.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a strong synergistic effect between ACE I/D and CY11B2 T-344C and a moderate effect between both ACE I/D and CY11B2 T-344C and AGT A-6G. AGT -6G, ACE D, and CY11B2 -344C increased susceptibility to EH. REN Taq I, AGT -6G, CY11B2 -344 C and ACE D were associated with male and female EH, respectively. H1 and H3 of AGT were protective and risk haplotypes, respectively.

S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 expression interference inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation

We investigated the expression of S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (SKP2) in breast cancer tissues, and the effects of SKP2-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) interference on breast cancer cell proliferation. Thirty subjects provided breast cancer tissue samples and 18 subjects provided normal breast specimens for this study. The expression of SKP2 in breast cancer patient tissues and normal breast tissues was detected by western blotting analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. SKP2-specific siRNA was used to decrease SKP2 expression in breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to detect cell proliferation. SKP2 expression in breast cancer tissues was significantly higher than in normal breast tissues (P < 0.05). Two pairs of siRNA specific to SKP2 were required to downregulate SKP2 expression in the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. The MTT assay showed that MDA-MB-231 growth significantly slowed after SKP2 interference. Patients with breast cancer have an increased SKP2 level. Interference in SKP2 gene expression can inhibit breast cancer cell growth, suggesting that SKP2 is potentially a new target for breast cancer therapy.

[Correlation Analysis Between Common Peaks of Angelica sinensis HPLC Fingerprint and Mineral Elements in Its Growing Soil]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation between common peaks of Angelica sinensis HPLC fingerprint and mineral elements in its growing soil.

METHODS

The fingerprints of 120 batches of Angelica sinensis from 12 habitats were determined by HPLC. The contents of Pb, As, Cr, Sb, Hg, Cu, Cd, Ni, Zn, Mg, Mn, Ca, Fe, Na and K in corresponding soil were determined by ICP-MS and AAS. Bivariate and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the correlation.

RESULTS

There were significant ( P < 0. 01 or P < 0.05) positive and negative correlation between many common peaks in HPLC fingerprint of Angelica sinensis and mineral elements in its growing soil. The contribution of mineral elements in soil on peak 1 were Zn > K > Sb > Fe > Na; on peak 6 (3-butylphthalide) were Mn > Mg > Ca; on peak 7 were Cr > Zn; on peak 8 were Mn > Na; on peak 11 were As > K > Fe > Cd; on peak 12 were Zn > Mn > K; on peak 13 (Z-butylidenephthalide) were Mn > Zn > Cd; on peak 15 were Zn > K; on peak 16 were Fe > Ni; on peak 17 were Zn > Mn > Ni > Fe > K; on peak 18 were Zn > Na; peaks 2,3 (ferulic acid), 4 and 14 (Z-ligustilide) was mainly affected by As, Zn, Sb and Cu, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The relationship between HPLC fingerprint peak of Angelica sinensis and mineral elements in its growing soil shows complexity, multiplicity and interactivity, which should be selectively examined during manuring micronutrient fertilizer and Angelica sinensis cultivation.

Autologous antibodies that bind neuroblastoma cells

Antibody therapy of neuroblastoma is promising and our goal is to derive antibodies from patients with neuroblastoma for developing new therapeutic antibodies. The feasibility of using residual bone marrow obtained for clinical indications as a source of tumor cells and a source of antibodies was assessed. From marrow samples, neuroblastoma cells were recovered, grown in cell culture and also implanted into mice to create xenografts. Mononuclear cells from the marrow were used as a source to generate phage display antibody libraries and also hybridomas. Growth of neuroblastoma patient cells was possible both in vitro and as xenografts. Antibodies from the phage libraries and from the monoclonal hybridomas bound autologous neuroblastoma cells with some selectivity. It appears feasible to recover neuroblastoma cells from residual marrow specimens and to generate human antibodies that bind autologous neuroblastoma cells. Expansion of this approach is underway to collect more specimens, optimize methods to generate antibodies, and to evaluate the bioactivity of neuroblastoma-binding antibodies.

Observation of the ψ(1 3D2) State in e+e-→π+π-γχc1 at BESIII

We report the observation of the X(3823) state in the process e+e-→π+π-X(3823)→π+π-γχc1 with a statistical significance of 6.2σ, in data samples at center-of-mass energies sqrt[s]=4.230, 4.260, 4.360, 4.420, and 4.600 GeV collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII electron positron collider. The measured mass of the X(3823) state is (3821.7±1.3±0.7)  MeV/c2, where the first error is statistical and the second systematic, and the width is less than 16 MeV at the 90% confidence level. The products of the Born cross sections for e+e-→π+π-X(3823) and the branching ratio B[X(3823)→γχc1,c2] are also measured. These measurements are in good agreement with the assignment of the X(3823) state as the ψ(1 3D2) charmonium state.

[NIR Fingerprints of Different Medicinal Parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the spectrum characteristics of near-intrared dittuse retlectance spectroscopy (NIR) fingerprint of different medicinal parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix.

METHODS

96 batches of samples were collected from 14 counties of Gansu Province and Yunnan Province. The NIR fingerprints were collected by integrated sphere. Similarity analysis and partial least square discriminant analysis(PLS-DA) were used to analyze the fingerprint.

RESULTS

The average spectrum of NIR fingerprint of different medicinal parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix showed some differences; the absorbance in characteristic absorption was in a decreasing order of body > tail > head > whole. Most NIR fingerprint similarities of different medicinal parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix exceeded 0. 95. The established model of PLS-DA could be used to accurately classify the medicinal parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix. The differences of NIR fingerprints of different medicinal parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix were mainly existing in the wave number ranges of 8,443 - 8,284 cm -1, 7,003 - 6,896 cm-1, 6,102 - 5,864 cm-1, 4,847 - 4,674 cm-1, and 4,386 - 4,208 cm-1.

CONCLUSION

The different medicinal parts of Angelicae Sinensis Radix have some differences in chemical components.

Nitrogen and fluorine dual-doped mesoporous graphene: a high-performance metal-free ORR electrocatalyst with a super-low HO2(-) yield

In this study, we successfully, for the first time, prepared nitrogen and fluorine dual-doped mesoporous graphene (NF-MG) via the thermal treatment of graphene oxide/polyaniline composites (GO/PANI) and NH4F. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of N and F co-doping into the G framework, the oxygen reduction reaction performance of the optimal catalyst (NF-MG3) is comparable with the-state-of-the-art Pt/C catalyst in an alkaline medium, which makes it an ideal candidate as an efficient metal-free ORR electrocatalyst in fuel cells.

Sonication inhibited browning but decreased polyphenols contents and antioxidant activity of fresh apple (malus pumila mill, cv. Red Fuji) juice

Enzyme browning is the main challenge in the preparation of fresh apple juice. The influence of sonication on browning, as well as polyphenols and antioxidant activity of fresh apple juice was investigated. It was found that ultrasound can inhibit the browning of fresh apple (Malus pumila Mill, cv. Red Fuji) juice, but decreased the contents of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and chlorogenic acid and reduced the antioxidant activity. On the whole, ultrasound technology cannot be used to the antibrowning of fresh apple (Malus pumila Mill, cv. Red Fuji) juice.

The Association Between VEGF +936C/T and -634G/C Polymorphisms and Breast Cancer Susceptibility, Tumor Growth, and Metastases: Evidence From 20,728 Subjects

The relation between the polymorphisms of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and breast cancer remains inconclusive. In our meta-analysis based on 10,340 breast cancer patients and 10,388 controls, we found breast cancer susceptibility was elevated in individuals carrying the VEGF +936C allele, especially in Asians, and the +936CC increases tumor growth. The G allele of -634G/C polymorphism reduces breast cancer susceptibility in Asians, and breast cancer patients of -634GG genotype has decreased tumor growth. These results suggest that both the VEGF +936C/T and -634G/C polymorphisms influence breast cancer susceptibility and tumor growth, instead of metastasis.

Aptamer-based colorimetric biosensing of abrin using catalytic gold nanoparticles

In this study we propose a simple and sensitive colorimetric aptasensor for the quantitative analysis of abrin by using catalytic AuNPs for the first time. AuNPs possess the peroxidase-like activity that can catalyse 3,3,5,5-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) in the presence of H2O2, leading to color change of the solution. It is interesting to find that the peroxidase-like activity of AuNPs can be improved by surface activation with a target-specific aptamer. However, with a target molecule, the aptamer is desorbed from the AuNPs surface, resulting in a decrease of the catalytic abilities of AuNPs. The color change of the solution is relevant to the target concentration, and this can be judged by the naked eye and monitored by using a UV-vis spectrometer. The linear range for the current analytical system was from 0.2 nM to 17.5 nM. The corresponding limit of detection (LOD) was 0.05 nM. Some other proteins such as thrombin (Th), glucose oxidase (GOx), and bovine serum albumin (BSA) all had a negligible effect on the determination of abrin. Furthermore, several practical samples spiked with abrin were analyzed using the proposed method with excellent recoveries. This aptamer-based colorimetric biosensor is superior to other conventional methods owing to its simplicity, low cost, and high sensitivity.

Study of e(+)e(-)→ωχ(cJ) at center of mass energies from 4.21 to 4.42 GeV

Based on data samples collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII collider at nine center of mass energies from 4.21 to 4.42 GeV, we search for the production of e^{+}e^{-}→ωχ_{cJ} (J=0, 1, 2). The process e^{+}e^{-}→ωχ_{c0} is observed for the first time, and the Born cross sections at sqrt[s]=4.23 and 4.26 GeV are measured to be (55.4±6.0±5.9) and (23.7±5.3±3.5)  pb, respectively, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic. The ωχ_{c0} signals at the other seven energies and the e^{+}e^{-}→ωχ_{c1} and ωχ_{c2} signals are not significant, and the upper limits on the cross sections are determined. By examining the ωχ_{c0} cross section as a function of center of mass energy, we find that it is inconsistent with the line shape of the Y(4260) observed in e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ. Assuming the ωχ_{c0} signals come from a single resonance, we extract the mass and width of the resonance to be (4230±8±6)  MeV/c^{2} and (38±12±2)  MeV, respectively, and the statistical significance is more than 9σ.

A facile label-free colorimetric aptasensor for ricin based on the peroxidase-like activity of gold nanoparticles

A facile colorimetric aptasensor for ricin based on the peroxidase-like activity of gold nanoparticles was demonstrated for the first time.

Label-free fluorescence detection of mercury ions based on the regulation of the Ag autocatalytic reaction

This work reports on a fluorescent sensor for Hg²⁺ based on the inhibition of the Ag(i)-mediated oxidation of o-phenylenediamine into fluorescent 2,3-diaminophenazine.

Trps1 deficiency inhibits the morphogenesis of secondary hair follicles via decreased Noggin expression

A representative phenotype of patients with tricho-rhino-phalangeal syndrome (TRPS) is sparse hair. To understand the developmental defects of these patient's hair follicles, we analyzed the development of hair follicles histologically and biochemically using Trps1 deficient (KO) mice. First, we compared the numbers of primary hair follicles in wild-type (WT) and KO embryos at different developmental stages. No differences were observed in the E14.5 skins of WT and KO mice. However, at later time points, KO fetal skin failed to properly develop secondary hair follicles, and the number of secondary hair follicles present in E18.5 KO skin was approximately half compared to that of WT skin. Sonic hedgehog expression was significantly decreased in E17.5 KO skin, whereas no changes were observed in Eda/Edar expression in E14.5 or E17.5 skins. In addition, Noggin expression was significantly decreased in E14.5 and E17.5 KO skin compared to WT skin. In parallel with the suppression of Noggin expression, BMP signaling was promoted in the epidermal cells of KO skins compared to WT skins as determined by immunohistochemistry for phosphorylated Smad1/5/8. The reduced number of secondary hair follicles was restored in skin graft cultures treated with a Noggin and BMP inhibitor. Furthermore, decreased cell proliferation, and increased apoptosis in KO skin was rescued by Noggin treatment. Taken together, we conclude that hair follicle development in Trps1 KO embryos is impaired directly or indirectly by decreased Noggin expression.

Identification and characterization of the nitrate assimilation genes in the isolate of Streptomyces griseorubens JSD-1

Background

Streptomyces griseorubens JSD-1 is a novel actinomycete isolated from soil that can utilize nitrate as its sole nitrogen source for growth and these nitrate assimilation genes active in this biotransformation are expected to be crucial. However, little is known about its genomic or genetic background related to nitrogen metabolism in this isolate. Thus, this study concentrates on identification and characterization of genes involved in nitrate assimilation.

Results

To investigate the molecular mechanism of nitrate metabolism, genome sequencing was performed by Illumina Miseq platform. Then the draft genome of a single linear chromosome with 8,463,223 bp and an average G+C content of 72.42% was obtained, which has been deposited at GenBank under the accession number JJMG00000000. Sequences of nitrate assimilation proteins such as nitrate reductase (EC 1.7.99.4), nitrite reductase (EC 1.7.1.4), glutamine synthetase (EC 6.3.1.2), glutamate synthase (EC 1.4.1.13) and glutamate dehydrogenase (EC 1.4.1.2) were acquired. All proteins were predicted to be intracellular enzymes and their sequences were highly identical to those from their similar species owing to the conservative character. Putative 3D structures of these proteins were also modeled based on the templates with the most identities in the PDB database. Through KEGG annotated map, these proteins proved to be located on the key positions of nitrogen metabolic signaling pathway. Finally, quantitative RT-PCR indicated that expression responses of all genes were up-regulated generally and significantly when stimulated with nitrate.

Conclusion

In this manuscript, we describe the genome features of an isolate of S. griseorubens JSD-1 following with identification and characterization of these nitrate assimilation proteins such as nitrate reductase, nitrite reductase, glutamine synthetase, glutamate synthase and glutamate dehydrogenase accounts for the ability to utilize nitrate as its sole nitrogen source for growth through cellular localization, multiple sequence alignment, putative 3D modeling and quantitative RT-PCR. In summary, our findings provide the genomic and genetic background of utilizing nitrate of this strain.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12934-014-0174-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Observation of e(+)e(-)→π(0)π(0)hc and a neutral charmoniumlike structure Zc(4020)(0)

Using data collected with the BESIII detector operating at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider at center-of-mass energies of sqrt[s]=4.23, 4.26, and 4.36 GeV, we observe e(+)e(-)→π(0)π(0)hc for the first time. The Born cross sections are measured and found to be about half of those of e(+)e(-)→π(+)π(-)hc within less than 2σ. In the π(0)hc mass spectrum, a structure at 4.02  GeV/c(2) is found. It is most likely to be the neutral isospin partner of the Zc(4020)(±) observed in the process of e(+)e(-)→π(+)π(-)hc being found. A fit to the π(0)hc invariant mass spectrum, with the width of the Zc(4020)(0) fixed to that of its charged isospin partner and possible interferences with non-Zc(4020)(0) amplitudes neglected, gives a mass of (4023.9±2.2±3.8)  MeV/c(2) for the Zc(4020)(0), where the first error is statistical and the second systematic.

[Study on mineral elements distribution in soil of Angelica sinensis producing regions and its relationship with altitude and soil types]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the distribution characteristics of mineral elements in the soil of Angelica sinensis producing regions and its relationship with altitude and soil types.

METHODS

The contents of 15 mineral elements in 103 batches of soil from 13 counties were determined by ICP-MS or AAS. Pearson correlation analysis, partial correlation analysis and systematical cluster analysis were used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

Pearson correlation analysis showed that the content of Mg in soil and altitude showed significant positive correlation(P <0. 01), the content of Cd in soil and altitude showed significant negative correlation(P <0. 05), and the con- tents of Pb, Cd, As, Cu, Cr as well as Ni in soil and altitude showed negative correlation. The result of systematic cluster analysis showed that 103 batches of soil were clustered into 5 groups. The main soil types of group I were black soil, haplic kastanozems and black sandy-soil, group II was loess, group III was cinnamon soil, group IV were red soil and grey cinnamon soil, and group V were black soil, haplic kastanozems, grey cinnamon soil and cinnamon soil.

CONCLUSION

The distribution of mineral elements in soil is closely related to altitude and soil types.

Elevated serum 1,25(OH)2-vitamin D3 level attenuates renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction in kl/kl mice

Previous studies have suggested that Klotho provides reno-protection against unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)-induced renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis (RTF). Because the existing studies are mainly performed using heterozygous Klotho mutant (HT) mice, we focused on the effect of UUO on homozygous Klotho mutant (kl/kl) mice. UUO kidneys from HT mice showed a significantly higher level of RTF and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling than wild-type (WT) mice, whereas both were greatly suppressed in kl/kl mice. Primary proximal tubular epithelial culture cells isolated from kl/kl mice showed no suppression in TGF-β1-induced epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) compared to those from HT mice. In the renal epithelial cell line NRK52E, a large amount of inorganic phosphate (Pi), FGF23, or calcitriol was added to the medium to mimic the in vivo homeostasis of kl/kl mice. Neither Pi nor FGF23 antagonized TGF-β1-induced EMT. In contrast, calcitriol ameliorated TGF-β1-induced EMT in a dose dependent manner. A vitamin D₃-deficient diet normalized the serum 1,25 (OH)₂ vitamin D₃ level in kl/kl mice and enhanced UUO-induced RTF and TGF-β/Smad3 signaling. In conclusion, the alleviation of UUO-induced RTF in kl/kl mice was due to the TGF-β1 signaling suppression caused by an elevated serum 1, 25(OH)₂ vitamin D₃.

Abstract 3638: Vaccine-draining lymph nodes of cancer patients for generating anticancer antibodies

Human vaccine studies regularly demonstrate vaccine-induced antibodies in the blood. Characterization of these antibodies shows that they exhibit an extensive range of bioactive mechanisms. Unfortunately, there is not yet a reliable method by which to produce these important antibodies. Human antibodies may not require any molecular modification for therapeutic application and have a much faster pipeline to clinical studies than animal-derived antibodies. Lymph nodes are the primary destination of tumor or vaccine antigens. In the node, B cells undergo clonal expansion and somatic hypermutation, leading to the affinity-matured populations of effector B cells secreting antibodies that bind to the tumor or vaccine. The cancer vaccine-draining node is the ideal source of B cells that produce anticancer antibodies. Despite multiple human cancer vaccine studies, very little research has been done to recover the B cells responsible for vaccine-induced anticancer antibodies. In the present study, we used mononuclear cells from surgically removed vaccine-draining lymph nodes of melanoma patients vaccinated with 6 melanoma peptides derived from cancer-testis antigens and from melanocytic differentiation proteins for generating anti-vaccine peptide antibodies. The lymph node draining the vaccination site was localized by lymphatic mapping with a radiotracer. The development and maturity of B cells were assessed by determining phenotypic characters of lymph node cells using multicolor flow cytometry. The results showed that these vaccine-draining nodes contain high numbers of class-switched (CD19+CD27+IgD-IgM-) B cells and plasmablasts (CD19+CD38+IgM-). B-cell ELISpot assay was used to quantify the proportion of B cells in vaccine-draining lymph nodes that secrete anti-melanoma peptide antibodies. Positive ELISpot responses were observed in patients who also showed serum antibody-reactivity towards the vaccine peptides. The identification of lymph node cell samples exhibiting strong B-cell responses allows efficient generation and screening of hybridomas that secrete antibodies against cancer vaccine antigens. This study establishes a step-wise protocol for generating anti-cancer antibodies from vaccine-draining lymph nodes. We anticipate that the ability to reliably generate in vitro the same antibodies observed in the blood of vaccinated patients will further stimulate research to understand mechanisms of human antibody activity.

Citation Format: Girja S. Shukla, Stephanie C. Pero, Yu-jing Sun, Chelsea L. Carman, Walter C. Olson, Craig L. Slingluff, David N. Krag. Vaccine-draining lymph nodes of cancer patients for generating anticancer antibodies. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3638. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3638

The existence and role of microchimerism after microtransplantion

AIM

To study microchimerism's role and function after microtransplantation and identify novel genetic markers for microchimerism detection.

METHODS

Analyzing microchimerisms from patients microtransplanted to determine the presence of GSTT1, GSTM1, SRY and other genetic markers by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

Microchimerism could be detected for a short time after microtransplantation simultaneously with hematopoietic recovery. In conclusion, microchimerism might accelerate hematopoietic recovery and GSTT1 and GSTM1 genes could be used as genetic markers to differentiate donor cells.

DISCUSSION

Microchimerism could exist for a short time after microtransplantation and appears to function in hematopoietic recovery. According to published reports, cytokines secreted from microchimerisms could be detected in recipients and exhibit some function on the host. Therefore, cytokines secreted from donor cells are hypothesized to accelerate hematopoietic recovery. The evidence to prove a longer existence for microchimerism is insufficient and needs supports by additional experiments; however, we cannot deny its existence just because of the limited sensitivity of methods.

[Application of entropy-weight TOPSIS model in synthetical quality evaluation of Angelica sinensis growing in Gansu Province]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the establishment and application methods of entropy-weight TOPSIS model in synthetical quality evaluation of traditional Chinese medicine with Angelica sinensis growing in Gansu Province as an example.

METHODS

The contents of ferulic acid, 3-butylphthalide, Z-butylidenephthalide, Z-ligustilide, linolic acid, volatile oil, and ethanol soluble extractive were used as an evaluation index set. The weights of each evaluation index were determined by information entropy method. The entropyweight TOPSIS model was established to synthetically evaluate the quality of Angelica sinensis growing in Gansu Province by Euclid closeness degree.

RESULTS

The results based on established model were in line with the daodi meaning and the knowledge of clinical experience.

CONCLUSION

The established model was simple in calculation, objective, reliable, and can be applied to synthetical quality evaluation of traditional Chinese medicine.

Nitrogen-corrected True Metabolizable Energy and Amino Acid Digestibility of Chinese Corn Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles in Adult Cecectomized Roosters

This study was conducted to evaluate chemical composition, nitrogen-corrected true metabolizable energy (TMEn) and true amino acids digestibility of corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) produced in China. Twenty five sources of corn DDGS was collected from 8 provinces of China. A precision-fed rooster assay was used to determine TMEn and amino acids digestibility with 35 adult cecectomized roosters, in which each DDGS sample was tube fed (30 g). The average content of ash, crude protein, total amino acid, ether extract, crude fiber and neutral detergent fiber were 4.81, 27.91, 22.51, 15.22, 6.35 and 37.58%, respectively. TMEn of DDGS ranged from 1,779 to 3,071 kcal/kg and averaged 2,517 kcal/kg. Coefficient of variation for non-amino acid crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber and TMEn were 55.0, 15.7, 15.9 and 17.1%, respectively. The average true amino acid digestibility was 77.32%. Stepwise regression analysis obtained the following equation: TMEn, kcal/kg = -2,995.6+0.88×gross energy+49.63×a* (BIC = 248.8; RMSE = 190.8; p<0.01). Removing gross energy from the model obtained the following equation: TMEn, kcal/kg = 57.88×ether extracts+87.62×a* (BIC = 254.3, RMSE = 223.5; p<0.01). No correlation was found between color scores and lysine true digestibility (p>0.05). These results suggest that corn DDGS produced in China has a large variation in chemical composition, and gross energy and a* value can be used to generate TMEn predict equation.

Observation of η'→π+ π π+ π- and η'→π+π- π0 π0

Using a sample of 1.3 × 10(9)  J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector, we report the first observation of η(')→π(+)π(-)π(+)π(-) and η(')→π(+)π(-)π(0)π(0). The measured branching fractions are B(η(')→π(+)π(-)π(+)π(-)) = [8.53 ± 0.69(stat.) ± 0.64(syst.)]×10(-5) and B(η(')→π(+)π(-)π(0) π(0)) = [1.82 ± 0.35(stat.) ± 0.18(syst.)] × 10(-4), which are consistent with theoretical predictions based on a combination of chiral perturbation theory and vector-meson dominance.

Fluorescent sensing of cocaine based on a structure switching aptamer, gold nanoparticles and graphene oxide

This study demonstrates a cocaine sensing method employing graphene oxide (GO), gold nanoparticles and a structure switching aptamer, which can fold into a three-way junction in the presence of cocaine. On the observation of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) induced graphene oxide fluorescence quenching, a structure switching aptamer of cocaine was introduced as the linker between the two parts. Firstly, two fragments of a cocaine aptamer were immobilized covalently onto GO and Au NPs, respectively. Then when the three-way junction formed, the Au NPs were drawn near to the GO surface and induced a fluorescence intensity decrease. The limit of detection was 0.1 μM for cocaine in purified water, and well defined results were also obtained in biological fluids and the specificity experiment, which expands the feasibility of the as-prepared sensor for practical applications.

Observation of a charged charmoniumlike structure in e+ e- → (D* D*)± π∓ at √s = 4.26 GeV

We study the process e+ e- →(D* D*)± π∓ at a center-of-mass energy of 4.26 GeV using a 827  pb(-1) data sample obtained with the BESIII detector at the Beijing Electron Positron Collider. Based on a partial reconstruction technique, the Born cross section is measured to be (137±9±15)  pb. We observe a structure near the (D* D*)± threshold in the π∓ recoil mass spectrum, which we denote as the Zc±(4025). The measured mass and width of the structure are (4026.3±2.6±3.7)  MeV/c2 and (24.8±5.6±7.7)  MeV, respectively. Its production ratio σ(e+ e- → Zc±(4025)π∓ → (D* D*)± π∓)/σ(e+ e- → (D* D*)± π∓) is determined to be 0.65±0.09±0.06. The first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic.

Observation of e+e- → γX(3872) at BESIII

With data samples collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring at center-of-mass energies from 4.009 to 4.420 GeV, the process e+e-→ γX(3872) is observed for the first time with a statistical significance of 6.3σ. The measured mass of the X(3872) is (3871.9 ± 0.7s tat ± 0.2 syst)  MeV/c(2), in agreement with previous measurements. Measurements of the product of the cross section σ[e+e- → γX(3872)] and the branching fraction B[X(3872)→π+π-J/ψ] at center-of-mass energies 4.009, 4.229, 4.260, and 4.360 GeV are reported. Our measurements are consistent with expectations for the radiative transition process Y(4260) → γX(3872).

Sonochemical effects on 14 flavonoids common in citrus: relation to stability

The sonochemical effects of ultrasound (US) treatment on 14 flavonoids representing the main flavonoids in citrus fruit were investigated in a standard mixture by stability evaluation of a model system. Degradation products were further tentatively identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet detection–electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Thirteen flavonoids (i.e., eriocitrin, narirutin, neohesperidin, quercitrin, eridictyol, didymin, naringenin, luteolin, sinensetin, nobiletin, tangeretin, naringin, and hesperidin) were fairly stable whereas quercetin was degraded significantly by US treatment. The types of solvent and temperature used were important factors that determined the resulting degradation reactions. The degradation rate of quercetin was highest in 80% ethanol aqueous solution and decreased with increasing temperature. Longer US durations caused increases in the extent of quercetin degradation. Liquid height, ultrasonic intensity, pulse length, and duty cycle of US affected degradation rates but did not change the nature of degradation of the flavonoids. Four types of reactions occurred simultaneously for quercetin under US treatment: oxidation, addition, polymerization, and decomposition. Eight degradation products were tentatively identified as dimer, alcohol addition, oxidation, and decomposition products.

Ultrasound effects on the degradation kinetics, structure, and antioxidant activity of sea cucumber fucoidan

The effects of ultrasound on the molecular weight, structure, and antioxidant potential of a fucoidan found in Isostichopus badionotus were investigated. The results showed the molecular weight (Mw) of fucoidan decreased obviously after ultrasound treatment. Higher ultrasonic intensity, lower temperature, and lower fucoidan concentrations led to a more effective sonochemical effect. The kinetic model for fucoidan degradation fitted to 1/M(wt)-1/M(w0) = kt at the tested temperature. The optimized degradation conditions by response surface methodology (RSM) were temperature, 12 °C, and intensity, 508 W/cm². Structural analysis by FTIR and NMR indicated the fucoidan kept the linear tetrasaccharide repeating units as the original polysaccharides after the ultrasound treatment, with only slight destruction of the middle nonsulfated fucose units. Antioxidant activity assay showed the antioxidant activity was slightly improved by the ultrasound treatment. The results suggested that ultrasound treatment is an effective approach to decrease the M(w) of fucoidan with only minor structural destruction.

Observation of a charged (DD*)± mass peak in e+ e- → πDD* at sqrt[s] = 4.26 GeV

We report on a study of the process e+ e- → π± (DD*)∓ at sqrt[s] = 4.26  GeV using a 525 pb(-1) data sample collected with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring. A distinct charged structure is observed in the (DD*)∓ invariant mass distribution. When fitted to a mass-dependent-width Breit-Wigner line shape, the pole mass and width are determined to be Mpole = (3883.9±1.5(stat)±4.2(syst))  MeV/c2 and Γpole = (24.8±3.3(stat)±11.0(syst))  MeV. The mass and width of the structure, which we refer to as Zc(3885), are 2σ and 1σ, respectively, below those of the Zc(3900) → π± J/ψ peak observed by BESIII and Belle in π+ π- J/ψ final states produced at the same center-of-mass energy. The angular distribution of the πZc(3885) system favors a JP = 1+ quantum number assignment for the structure and disfavors 1- or 0-. The Born cross section times the DD* branching fraction of the Zc(3885) is measured to be σ(e+ e- → π± Zc(3885)∓)×B(Zc(3885)∓ → (DD*)∓) = (83.5±6.6(stat)±22.0(syst))   pb. Assuming the Zc(3885) → DD* signal reported here and the Zc(3900) → πJ/ψ signal are from the same source, the partial width ratio (Γ(Zc(3885) → DD*)/Γ(Zc(3900) → πJ/ψ)) = 6.2±1.1(stat)±2.7(syst) is determined.