Comparative pangenome analysis of Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus oryzae reveals their phylogenetic, genomic, and metabolic homogeneity

Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus oryzae are closely related fungal species with contrasting roles in food safety and fermentation. To comprehensively investigate their phylogenetic, genomic, and metabolic characteristics, we conducted an extensive comparative pangenome analysis using complete, dereplicated genome sets for both species. Phylogenetic analyses, employing both the entirety of the identified single-copy orthologous genes and six housekeeping genes commonly used for fungal classification, did not reveal clear differentiation between A. flavus and A. oryzae genomes. Upon analyzing the aflatoxin biosynthesis gene clusters within the genomes, we observed that non-aflatoxin-producing strains were dispersed throughout the phylogenetic tree, encompassing both A. flavus and A. oryzae strains. This suggests that aflatoxin production is not a distinguishing trait between the two species. Furthermore, A. oryzae and A. flavus strains displayed remarkably similar genomic attributes, including genome sizes, gene contents, and G + C contents, as well as metabolic features and pathways. The profiles of CAZyme genes and secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene clusters within the genomes of both species further highlight their similarity. Collectively, these findings challenge the conventional differentiation of A. flavus and A. oryzae as distinct species and highlight their phylogenetic, genomic, and metabolic homogeneity, potentially indicating that they may indeed belong to the same species.

Enzymatic Activity and Amino Acids Production of Predominant Fungi from Traditional Meju during Soybean Fermentation

To investigate the effect of the predominant fungal species from Korean traditional meju and doenjang on soybean fermentation, the enzymatic activity and amino acid production of twenty-two fungal strains were assessed through solid- and liquid-state soybean fermentation. Enzymatic activity analyses of solid-state fermented soybeans revealed different enzyme activities involving protease, leucine aminopeptidase (LAP), carboxypeptidase (CaP), glutaminase, γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and amylase, depending on the fungal species. These enzymatic activities significantly affected the amino acid profile throughout liquid-state fermentation. Strains belonging to Mucoromycota, including Lichtheimia, Mucor, Rhizomucor, and Rhizopus, produced smaller amounts of total amino acids and umami-producing amino acids, such as glutamic acid and aspartic acid, than strains belonging to Aspergillus subgenus circumdati. The genera Penicillium and Scopulariopsis produced large amounts of total amino acids and glutamic acid, suggesting that these genera play an essential role in producing umami and kokumi tastes in fermented soybean products. Strains belonging to Aspergillus subgenus circumdati, including A. oryzae, showed the highest amino acid content, including glutamic acid, suggesting the potential benefits of A. oryzae as a starter for soybean fermentation. This study showed the potential of traditional meju strains as starters for soybean fermentation. However, further analysis of processes such as the production of G-peptide for kokumi taste and volatile compounds for flavor and safety is needed.

Unraveling the carbohydrate metabolic characteristics of Leuconostoc mesenteroides J18 through metabolite and transcriptome analyses

The metabolic characteristics of Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides J18, which is mainly responsible for kimchi fermentation, on various carbon sources were investigated through carbon utilization, metabolite, and transcriptome analyses at different culture conditions (10 and 30 °C with/without 2.5% NaCl). The metabolic features of strain J18 were relatively similar across the four culture conditions. However, the metabolic characteristics of strain J18 showed significant variations depending on the carbon source. These distinct metabolic traits of strain J18 on various carbon sources were validated through transcriptomic analyses and the reconstruction of metabolic pathways. The transcriptional expression of the metabolic pathways in response to each carbon source consistently correlated with the production profiles of metabolites, including ethanol, acetoin, diacetyl, and riboflavin, in each carbon source. Our findings suggests that the abundance of Leu. mesenteroides during fermentation and the taste and flavor of fermented food products can be controlled by altering the carbon sources.

Surgical treatment of nasopharyngeal cancer - a consensus recommendation from two Chinese associations

BACKGROUND

Surgical treatment is playing an increasingly important role in the management of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This consensus focuses on the indications for optimal surgery, and surgical methods in the whole process of treatment for NPC to provide a useful reference to assist these difficult clinical decisions.

METHODOLOGY

A thorough review of available literature on NPC and surgery was conducted by the Association for the prevention and treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in China, international exchange and promotion Association for medicine and healthcare, and the Committee on nasopharyngeal cancer of Guangdong provincial anticancer association. A set of questions and a preliminary draft guideline was circulated to a panel of 1096 experienced specialists on this disease for voting on controversial areas and comments. A refined second proposal, based on a summary of the initial voting and different opinions expressed, was recirculated to the experts in two authoritative medical science and technology academic groups in the prevention and treatment of NPC in China for review and reconsideration.

RESULTS

The initial round of questions showed variations in clinical practice even among similar specialists, reflecting the lack of high-quality supporting data and resulting difficulties in formulating clinical decisions. Through exchange of comments and iterative revisions, recommendations with high-to-moderate agreement were formulated on general treatment strategies and details of surgery, including indications and surgical approaches.

CONCLUSION

By standardizing the surgical indications and practice, we hope not only to improve the surgical outcomes, but also to highlight the key directions of future clinical research in the surgical management of NPC.

Comparative pangenome analysis of Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus lactis provides new insights into the adaptive evolution by horizontal gene acquisitions

BACKGROUND

Enterococcus faecium and E. lactis are phylogenetically closely related lactic acid bacteria that are ubiquitous in nature and are known to be beneficial or pathogenic. Despite their considerable industrial and clinical importance, comprehensive studies on their evolutionary relationships and genomic, metabolic, and pathogenic traits are still lacking. Therefore, we conducted comparative pangenome analyses using all available dereplicated genomes of these species.

RESULTS

E. faecium was divided into two subclades: subclade I, comprising strains derived from humans, animals, and food, and the more recent phylogenetic subclade II, consisting exclusively of human-derived strains. In contrast, E. lactis strains, isolated from diverse sources including foods, humans, animals, and the environment, did not display distinct clustering based on their isolation sources. Despite having similar metabolic features, noticeable genomic differences were observed between E. faecium subclades I and II, as well as E. lactis. Notably, E. faecium subclade II strains exhibited significantly larger genome sizes and higher gene counts compared to both E. faecium subclade I and E. lactis strains. Furthermore, they carried a higher abundance of antibiotic resistance, virulence, bacteriocin, and mobile element genes. Phylogenetic analysis of antibiotic resistance and virulence genes suggests that E. faecium subclade II strains likely acquired these genes through horizontal gene transfer, facilitating their effective adaptation in response to antibiotic use in humans.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study offers valuable insights into the adaptive evolution of E. faecium strains, enabling their survival as pathogens in the human environment through horizontal gene acquisitions.

Devosia rhodophyticola sp. nov. and Devosia algicola sp. nov., isolated from a marine red alga

Two Gram-stain-negative, obligately aerobic, motile rod bacteria, designated as G2-5T and G20-9T, exhibiting catalase- and oxidase-positive activities, were isolated from the phycosphere of a Chondrus species, a marine red alga. Strain G2-5T exhibited optimal growth at 30 °C and pH 5.0-6.0 and in the presence of 0.5-1.0% NaCl. In contrast, strain G20-9T demonstrated optimal growth at 25 °C and pH 6.0 and in the presence of 0.5-1.5% NaCl. Both strains contained ubiquinone-10, summed feature 8 (C18 : 1  ω7c and/or C18 : 1  ω6c), C18 : 0 and 11-methyl-C18 : 1  ω7c, and diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylglycerol as the major respiratory isoprenoid quinone, cellular fatty acids and polar lipids, respectively. The genomic DNA G+C contents were 57.2 mol% for strain G2-5T and 57.5 mol% for strain G20-9T. Strains G2-5T and G20-9T exhibited 98.2 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, along with 82.3 % average nucleotide identity (ANI) and 25.0 % digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values, indicating that they represent different species. Phylogenetic analyses based on both 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences revealed that strains G2-5T and G20-9T formed distinct phylogenic lineages within the genus Devosia. Strains G2-5T and G20-9T were most closely related to Devosia limi DSM 17137T and Devosia beringensis S02T with 97.7 and 96.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, respectively. The ANI and dDDH values between strains G2-5T and G20-9T and other Devosia species were lower than 73.9 and 19.2 %, respectively, suggesting that they constitute novel species within the genus Devosia. Based on their distinct phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, and molecular characteristics, strains G2-5T and G20-9T represent two novel species of the genus Devosia, for which the names Devosia rhodophyticola sp. nov. (G2-5T=KACC 22601T=JCM 35404T) and Devosia algicola sp. nov. (G20-9T=KACC 22650T=JCM 35405T) are proposed, respectively.

Description and Genomic Characteristics of Weissella fermenti sp. nov., Isolated from Kimchi

A Gram-positive, non-motile, and non-spore-forming lactic acid bacterium, designated as BK2T, was isolated from kimchi, a Korean traditional fermented vegetable food, and the taxonomic characteristics of strain BK2T, along with strain LMG 11983, were analyzed. Both strains optimally grew at 30°C, pH 7.0, and 1.0% NaCl. Cells of both strains were heterofermentative and facultatively anaerobic rods, demonstrating negative reactions for catalase and oxidase. Major fatty acids (>10%) identified in both strains were C18:1 ω9c, C16:0, and summed feature 7 (comprising C19:1 ω6c and/or C19:1 ω7c). The genomic DNA G+C contents of both strains were 44.7 mol%. The 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity (99.9%), average nucleotide identity (ANI; 99.9%), and digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH; 99.7%) value between strains BK2T and LMG 11983 indicated that they are different strains of the same species. Strain BK2T was most closely related to Weissella confusa JCM 1093T and Weissella cibaria LMG 17699T, with 100% and 99.4% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, respectively. However, based on the ANI and dDDH values (92.3% and 48.1% with W. confusa, and 78.4% and 23.5% with W. cibaria), it was evident that strain BK2T represents a distinct species separate from W. confusa and W. cibaria. Based on phylogenetic, phenotypic, and chemotaxonomic features, strains BK2T and LMG 11983 represent a novel species of the genus Weissella, for which the name Weissella fermenti sp. nov. is proposed. The type of strain is BK2T (=KACC 22833T=JCM 35750T).

Psychroserpens ponticola sp. nov. and Marinomonas maritima sp. nov., isolated from seawater

Two Gram-stain-negative, catalase- and oxidase-positive, aerobic non-motile and motile rod bacteria, strains MSW6T and RSW2T, were isolated from surface seawater. Strain MSW6T optimally grew at 20 °C, pH 7.0 and 3 % NaCl, while strain RSW2T optimally grew at 25 °C, pH 7.0-8.0 and 2 % NaCl. Strain MSW6T possessed menaquinone-6 as the major respiratory quinone, and its major fatty acids were iso-C15 : 1 G, iso-C15 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0 3-OH. The major polar lipid identified in strain MSW6T was phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). On the other hand, strain RSW2T had ubiquinone-8 as the predominant respiratory quinone, and its major fatty acids consisted of summed feature 3 (C16 : 1  ω7c and/or C16 : 1  ω6c), summed feature 8 (C18 : 1  ω7c and/or C18 : 1  ω6c) and C16 : 0. The major polar lipids identified in strain RSW2T were PE and phosphatidylglycerol. As the sole respiratory quinone, strain MSW6T possessed menaquinone-6, while strain RSW2T had ubiquinone-8. The DNA G+C contents of strains MSW6T and RSW2T were 31.9 and 43.4 mol%, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA and core gene sequences showed that strain MSW6T formed a phylogenic lineage with Psychroserpens mesophilus KOPRI 13649T, while strain RSW2T formed a phylogenic lineage with Marinomonas primoryensis KMM 3633T. Strain MSW6T shared 97.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and 80.7 % average nucleotide identity (ANI) ith P. mesophilus KOPRI 13649T, and strain RSW2T shared 99.1 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and 93.1 % ANI with M. primoryensis KMM 3633T. Based on the results of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic analyses, strains MSW6T and RSW2T represent novel species of the genera Psychroserpens and Marinomonas, respectively, for which the names Psychroserpens ponticola sp. nov. and Marinomonas maritima sp. nov. are proposed, respectively. The type strain of P. ponticola is MSW6T (=KACC 22338T=JCM 35022T) and the type strain of M. maritima is RSW2T (=KACC 22716T=JCM 35550T).

Hoeflea algicola sp. nov. and Hoeflea ulvae sp. nov., isolated from phycosphere of marine algae

Two Gram-negative, moderately halophilic, and motile rod bacteria, strains G2-23T and J2-29T, showing catalase- and oxidase-positive activities were isolated from species of the marine algae Chondrus and Ulva, respectively. Both strains optimally grew at 30 °C, pH 7.0 and 2% (w/v) NaCl. Both strains contained ubiquinone-10 as the sole isoprenoid quinone. Strain G2-23T contained summed feature 8 (C18 : 1 ω7c and/or C18 : 1 ω6c), C16 : 0 and summed feature 3 (iso-C15 : 0 2-OH and/or C16 : 1 ω7c/ω6c) as major cellular fatty acids, and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidyl-N-monomethylethanolamine (PME), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), diphosphatidylglycerol and an unidentified phospholipid (PL) as major polar lipids. Strain J2-29T contained summed feature 8, C18 : 1 ω7c 11-methyl and C16 : 0 as major cellular fatty acids and PE, PME, PG and PL as major polar lipids. The genomic DNA G+C contents of strains G2-23T and J2-29T were 59.5 and 62.2 mol%, respectively. Both strains shared 97.9 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, 79.8 % average nucleotide identity (ANI) and 22.8 % digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values, indicating that they represent different species. Phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses by 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences, respectively, revealed that strains G2-23T and J2-29T formed different phylogenic lineages within the genus Hoeflea. ANI and dDDH values between strains G2-23T and J2-29T and other Hoeflea type strains were less than 79.0 and 22.1% and 80.5 and 23.3 %, respectively, suggesting that they represent novel species of the genus Hoeflea. In summary, based on their phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular properties, strains G2-23T and J2-29T represent two different novel species of the genus Hoeflea, for which the names Hoeflea algicola sp. nov. (G2-23T=KACC 22714T=JCM 35548T) and Hoeflea ulvae sp. nov. (J2-29T=KACC 22715T=JCM 35549T), respectively, are proposed.

Alkalicoccobacillus porphyridii sp. nov., isolated from a marine red alga, reclassification of Shouchella plakortidis and Shouchella gibsonii as Alkalicoccobacillus plakortidis comb. nov. and Alkalicoccobacillus gibsonii comb. nov., and emended description of the genus Alkalicoccobacillus Joshi et al. 2022

A Gram-stain-positive alkali-tolerant and strictly aerobic bacterium, designated strain P16T, was isolated from a marine red alga, Porphyridium cruentum, in the Yellow Sea, Republic of Korea. Cells were motile rods with peritrichous flagella and exhibited catalase and oxidase activities. The optimal growth of strain P16T was observed to occur at 30 °C and pH 8.0 and in the presence of 2.0 % (w/v) NaCl. Menaquinone-7 was identified as the sole respiratory quinone. Strain P16T contained anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C15 : 0, iso-C14 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0, and diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine as major cellular fatty acids and polar lipids, respectively. The G+C content of strain P16T was 40.8 mol%. Strain P16T was most closely related to Shouchella plakortidis P203T, Shouchella gibsonii DSM 8722T and Alkalicoccobacillus murimartini LMG 21005T with 98.1, 98.1 and 98.0 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences revealed that strain P16T, S, plakortidis, S. gibsonii and A. murimartini formed a single phylogenetic lineage cluster, and genomic relatedness analyses showed that they are different species. Based on phylogenetic, phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular features, strain P16T represents a novel species of the genus Alkalicoccobacillus, for which the name Alkalicoccobacillus porphyridii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is P16T (=KACC 19520T=JCM 32931T). In addition, S. plakortidis and S. gibsonii are reclassified as Alkalicoccobacillus plakortidis comb. nov. (type strain P203T=DSM 19153T=NCIMB 14288T) and Alkalicoccobacillus gibsonii comb. nov. (type strain PN-109T=ATCC 700164T=DSM 8722T=KCCM 41407T), respectively.

Dyadobacter pollutisoli sp. nov., isolated from plastic waste landfill soil

A Gram-stain-negative, yellow-pigmented and facultatively aerobic bacterium, designated strain U1^T, was isolated from plastic dumped soil sampled in the Republic of Korea. Cell of strain U1^T were non-motile rods showing catalase-negative and oxidase-positive activities. Strain U1^T was shown to grow at 10-37 °C (optimum, 25-30 °C) and pH 6.0-9.0 (optimum, pH 8.0), and in the presence of 0-0.5 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0 %). Strain U1^T contained iso-C_15 : 0, C_16 : 0, C_16 : 1 ω5c and summed feature 3 (comprising C_16 : 1  ω6c and/or C_16 : 1 ω7c) as the major cellular fatty acids (>5 %) and menaquinone-7 as the sole respiratory quinone. Phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified aminolipids and three unidentified lipids were identified as the major polar lipids. The DNA G+C content of strain U1^T calculated from the whole-genome sequence was 45.5 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain U1^T formed a distinct phylogenetic lineage within the genus Dyadobacter. Strain U1^T has the highest 16S rRNA sequence similarity to Dyadobacter bucti QTA69^T (97.9 %). Average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain U1^T and D. bucti QTA69^T were 74.6 % and 18.9 %, respectively. Based on phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular features, strain U1^T represents a novel species of the genus Dyadobacter, for which the name Dyadobacter pollutisoli sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is U1^T (= KACC 22210^T=JCM 34491^T).

Tahibacter soli sp. nov., isolated from soil and Tahibacter amnicola sp. nov., isolated from freshwater

Two Gram-stain-negative, facultative aerobic, catalase- and oxidase-positive, and non-motile rod bacteria, strains BL^T and W38^T, that were isolated from soil and freshwater, respectively, were taxonomically characterized. Both strains optimally grew at 30 °C and pH 7.0 in Reasoner's 2A medium and contained ubiquinone-8 as the sole respiratory quinone. As major fatty acids (>10 %), strain BL^T contained iso-C_15 : 0 and summed features 3 and 9 (comprising iso-C_15 : 0 2-OH and/or C_16 : 1  ω7c/ω6c and iso-C_17 : 1  ω9c and/or C_16 : 0 10-methyl, respectively), whereas strain W38^T contained iso-C_15 : 0, iso-C_16 : 0 and summed feature 9. Diphosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylmonomethylethanolamine as major polar lipids and phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol as minor polar lipids were detected in both strains. The DNA G+C contents of strains BL^T and W38^T were 68.3 and 65.3 %, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences revealed that strains BL^T and W38^T formed a tight phylogenetic lineage with Tahibacter species, and they shared 98.8 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and 75.5 % average nucleotide identity (ANI) and 16.6 % digital DNA-DNA hybridization (dDDH) values, indicating that they are different species. Strains BL^T and W38^T were most closely related to Tahibacter caeni BUT-6^T and Tahibacter aquaticus PYM5-11^T with 97.7 and 98.0 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities, respectively. ANI and dDDH values between strain BL^T and T. caeni BUT-6^T and between strain W38^T and T. aquaticus DSM 21667^T were 78.5 and 21.6% and 75.3 and 21.0 %, respectively. Based on their phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genomic properties, strains BL^T and W38^T represent two different novel species of the genus Tahibacter, for which the names Tahibacter soli sp. nov. and Tahibacter amnicola sp. nov. are proposed. The type strains of T. soli and T. amnicola are BL^T (=KACC 22831^T=JCM 35402^T) and W38^T (=KACC 22832^T=JCM 35749^T), respectively.

Neobacillus terrae sp. nov., isolated from mountain soil

A Gram-stain-positive, spore-forming and facultative aerobic bacterium, designated C11^T, was isolated from mountain soil collected in the Republic of Korea. The cells were motile rods with peritrichous flagella, and positive for catalase and oxidase activities. Strain C11^T grew at 15-45 °C (optimum, 30-37 °C) and pH 6.0-8.0 (optimum, pH 6.0) and in the presence of 0-1 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0.5 %). Strain C11^T contained menaquinone-7 as the sole isoprenoid quinone and iso-C_15 : 0, iso-C_16 : 0 and anteiso-C_15 : 0 as the major fatty acids. Diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine were the major polar lipids. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 38.8 mol%. Strain C11^T was most closely related to Neobacillus drentensis IDA1967^T and Mesobacillus foraminis CV53^T, with 98.0 and 97.7 %, 71.7 and 69.9 %, and 20.1 and 20.3 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, average nucleotide identity, and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences showed that strain C11^T was included in a phyletic lineage with members of the genus Neobacillus but was distinct from members of the genus Mesobacillus. Phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular properties suggested that strain C11^T represents a novel species of the genus Neobacillus, for which the name Neobacillus terrae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is C11^T (=KACC 21661^T=JCM 33943^T).

Chitinophaga horti sp. nov., Isolated from Garden Soil

A strictly aerobic Gram-negative bacterium, designated R8^T, isolated from garden soil in South Korea was subjected to a taxonomic study. The cells were non-spore-forming, oxidase-positive and catalase-negative, and non-motile rods (without flagella). Growth was observed between 10 °C and 40 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and between pH 6.0 and 9.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 0%-1.5% (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0%). The G + C content of the genomic DNA was 49.9% and the major isoprenoid quinone was found to be menaquinone-7. The major fatty acids of strain R8^T were iso-C_15:0, C_16:1 ω5c, and summed feature 3 (comprising iso-C_15:0 2-OH and/or C_16:1 ω7c/ω6c). Phosphatidylethanolamine was identified as a major polar lipid. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that strain R8^T had the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 98.3% with Chitinophaga sedimenti TFL-3 ^T. Phylogenetic analyses using 16S rRNA gene sequences and concatenated 92 marker protein sequences revealed that strain R8^T formed a robust phylogenetic lineage with C. sedimenti within the genus Chitinophaga. Average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values of strain R8^T to Chitinophaga species were less than 77.9% and 21.1%, respectively. The phenotypic, phylogenetic, and chemotaxonomic properties support that strain R8^T represents a novel species of the genus Chitinophaga, for which the name Chitinophaga horti sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is R8^T (= KACC 19895 ^T = JCM 33215 ^T).

Genomic features, aroma profiles, and probiotic potential of the Debaryomyces hansenii species complex strains isolated from Korean soybean fermented food

Fermented soybean products are gaining attention in the food industry owing to their nutritive value and health benefits. In this study, we performed genomic analysis and physiological characterization of two Debaryomyces spp. yeast isolates obtained from a Korean traditional fermented soy sauce "ganjang". Both Debaryomyces hansenii ganjang isolates KD2 and C11 showed halotolerance to concentrations of up to 15% NaCl and improved growth in the presence of salt. Ploidy and whole-genome sequencing analyses indicated that the KD2 genome is haploid, whereas the C11 genome is heterozygous diploid with two distinctive subgenomes. Interestingly, phylogenetic analysis using intron sequences indicated that the C11 strain was generated via hybridization between D. hansenii and D. tyrocola ancestor strains. The D. hansenii KD2 and D. hansenii-hybrid C11 produced various volatile flavor compounds associated with butter, caramel, cheese, and fruits, and showed high bioconversion activity from ferulic acid to 4-vinylguaiacol, a characteristic flavor compound of soybean products. Both KD2 and C11 exhibited viability in the presence of bile salts and at low pH and showed immunomodulatory activity to induce high levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The safety of the yeast isolates was confirmed by analyzing virulence and acute oral toxicity. Together, the D. hansenii ganjang isolates possess physiological properties beneficial for improving the flavor and nutritional value of fermented products.

Dynamics and correlation of microbial communities and metabolic compounds in doenjang-meju, a Korean traditional soybean brick

To investigate the general fermentation characteristics of doenjang-meju (a Korean traditional soybean brick), they were periodically collected from eight different manufacturers during all fermentation stages, and their microbial communities and metabolic compounds (metabolites and volatile compounds) were analyzed. Bacillus and/or lactic acid bacteria (LAB, mainly Enterococcus) and Aspergillus were abundant during fermentation. Fructose and glucose; glycerol; acetate and lactate; and cadaverine, putrescine, tyramine, and histamine were identified as the major sugars, carbon compound, organic acids, and biogenic amines, respectively. Tetramethylpyrazine, butyric acid, butyl butyrate, butanol, acetic acid, 2-methylbutyrate, acetoin, 2,3-butandiol, and nonadecane were the major volatile compounds. However, the profiles of microbial communities, metabolites, and volatile compounds during fermentation varied significanlty among samples. Principal component analysis revealed that doenjang-meju had two differentiated fermentation features, Bacillus-dominated fermentation and LAB (mainly Enterococcus)-dominated fermentation, each having different metabolite and volatile compound profiles. Particularly, fewer volatile compounds were detected in LAB-dominated doenjang-meju samples. Correlation analysis showed a strong negative correlation between Bacillus and LAB, and bacteria and fungi were less correlated with each other. Enterococcus, LAB, and Bacillus were positively correlated with lactate, flavonoid aglycones, and putrescine, respectively, suggesting that they might be mainly responsible for producing the compounds during fermentation. This study provides insights into the general fermentation characteristics of doenjang-meju.

[The accuracy and influencing factors of sleep staging based on single-channel EEG via a deep neural network]

Objective: To investigate theaccuracy of artificial intelligence sleep staging model in patients with habitual snoring and obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) based on single-channel EEG collected from different locations of the head. Methods: The clinical data of 114 adults with habitual snoring and OSAHS who visited to the Sleep Medicine Center of Beijing Tongren Hospital from September 2020 to March of 2021 were analyzed retrospectively, including 93 males and 21 females, aging from 20 to 64 years old. Eighty-five adults with OSAHS and 29 subjects with habitual snoring were included. Sleep staging analysis was performed on the single lead EEG signals of different locations (FP2-M1, C4-M1, F3-M2, ROG-M1, O1-M2) using the deep learning segmentation model trained by previous data. Manual scoring results were used as the gold standard to analyze the consistency rate of results and the influence of different categories of disease. Results: EEG data in 124 747 30-second epochs were taken as the testing dataset. The model accuracy of distinguishing wake/sleep was 92.3%,92.6%,93.5%,89.2% and 83.0% respectively,based on EEG channel Fp2-M1, C4-M1, F3-M2, REOG-M1 or O1-M2. The mode accuracy of distinguishing wake/REM/NREM and wake/REM/N1-2/SWS , was 84.7% and 80.1% respectively based on channel Fp2-M1, which located in forehead skin. The AHI calculated based on total sleep time derived from the model and gold standard were 13.6[4.30,42.5] and 14.2[4.8,42.7], respectively (Z=-2.477, P=0.013), and the kappa coefficient was 0.977. Conclusions: The autonomic sleep staging via a deep neural network model based on forehead single-channel EEG (Fp2-M1) has a good consistency in the identification sleep stage in a population with habitual snoring and OSAHS with different categories. The AHI calculated based on this model has high consistency with manual scoring.

Characterization and correlation of microbial communities and metabolite and volatile compounds in doenjang fermentation

To investigate the general fermentation features of doenjang, a traditional Korean fermented soybean paste, eleven batches of doenjang were prepared. The bacterial and fungal communities and the metabolites such as free sugars, organic acids, amino acids, and volatile compounds were analyzed during fermentation. Tetragenococcus, Aspergillus, and Debaryomyces were the most common microbes; galactose, fructose, and glucose were the major sugars; and lactate and acetate were the major organic acids. Spearman correlation analyses showed that the quantity of meju was correlated with only Pediococcus and Halomonas abundance, while solar salt concentration was correlated with the relative abundance of many microbial taxa and the amount of glycerol and total volatile compounds. The abundance of heterolactic acid bacteria, such as Tetragenococcus, Pediococcus, Weissella, and Enterococcus, was positively correlated with the levels of lactate, acetate, and ethanol, suggesting that heterolactic acid fermentation may be a major metabolism pathway during the fermentation of doenjang. The abundance of Weissella, Hyphopichia, and Wickerhamomyces was positively correlated with ethyl acetate levels, whereas the abundance of Staphylococcus and Bacillus was positively correlated with the concentration of major volatile compounds, 3-methylbutanoic acid and tetramethylpyrazine, respectively, suggesting that they may play important roles in the production of flavor compounds during fermentation.

Ramlibacter algicola sp. nov., isolated from a freshwater alga Cryptomonas obovoidea

A Gram-stain-negative, strictly aerobic, catalase-negative, oxidase-positive and non-motile rod-shaped bacterium, designated strain CrO1^T, was isolated from a freshwater alga Cryptomonas obovoidea in the Nakdong river of South Korea. Colonies of CrO1^T were white, convex and circular and growth was observed at 25-40 °C (optimum, 37 °C) and pH 6.0-9.0 (optimum, pH 7) and in the presence of 0-0.5 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0 %). CrO1^T contained C_16 : 0, summed feature 5 (comprising C_18 : 0ante and/or C_18 : 2ω6,9c), C_18 : 0, summed feature 3 (comprising C_16 : 1ω7c and/or C_16 : 1ω6c) and summed feature 8 (comprising C_18 : 1ω7c and/or C_18 : 1ω6c) as the major cellular fatty acids (>5 %) and ubiquinone-8 as the sole respiratory quinone. Phosphatidylethanolamine was detected as the major polar lipid. The DNA G+C content of CrO1^T, calculated from the whole genome sequence was 69.6 mol%. CrO1^T was most closely related to Ramlibacter humi 18x22-1^T with a 97.6 % 16S rRNA sequence similarity and shared less than 97.4 % 16S rRNA sequence similarities with other type strains. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene and whole genome sequences revealed that CrO1^T formed a distinct phyletic lineage within the genus Ramlibacter. On the basis of the results of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular analysis, CrO1^T clearly represents a novel species of the genus Ramlibacter, for which the name Ramlibacter algicola sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CrO1^T (=KACC 19926^T=JCM 33302^T).

Lysobacter arenosi sp. nov. and Lysobacter solisilvae sp. nov. isolated from soil

Two Gram-stain negative, yellow-pigmented, and mesophilic bacteria, designated strains R7^T and R19^T, were isolated from sandy and forest soil, South Korea, respectively. Both strains were non-motile rods showing catalase- and oxidase-positive activities. Both strains were shown to grow at 10-37°C and pH 6.0-9.0, and in the presence of 0-1.5% (w/v) NaCl. Strain R7^T contained iso-C_14:0, iso-C_15:0, iso-C_16:0, and summed feature 9 (comprising C_16:0 10-methyl and/or iso-C_17:1ω9c), whereas strain R19^T contained iso-C_11:0 3-OH, C_16:1ω7c alcohol, iso-C_11:0, iso-C_15:0, iso-C_16:0, and summed feature 9 (comprising C_16:0 10-methyl and/or iso-C_17:1ω9c) as major cellular fatty acids (> 5%). Both strains contained ubiquin-one-8 as the sole isoprenoid quinone and phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and an unidentified phospholipid as the major polar lipids. The DNA G + C contents of strains R7^T and R19^T calculated from their genomes were 66.9 mol% and 68.9 mol%, respectively. Strains R7^T and R19^T were most closely related to Lysobacter panacisoli C8-1^T and Lysobacter niabensis GH34-4^T with 98.7% and 97.8% 16S rRNA sequence similarities, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strains R7^T and R19^T formed distinct phylogenetic lineages within the genus Lysobacter. Based on phenotypic, chemotaxonomic, and molecular features, strains R7^T and R19^T represent novel species of the genus Lysobacter, for which the names Lysobacter arenosi sp. nov. and Lysobacter solisilvae sp. nov. are proposed. The type strains of L. arenosi and L. solisilvae are R7^T (= KACC 21663^T = JCM 34257^T) and R19^T (= KACC 21767^T = JCM 34258^T), respectively.

Dynamics of microbial communities and metabolites in ganjang, a traditional Korean fermented soy sauce, during fermentation

Six different ganjang batches were prepared and the microbial communities in the ganjang samples and raw materials (meju and solar salts), as well as the metabolites generated during fermentation were analyzed. The varying amounts of raw materials used differentially affected the microbial communities. Halophilic or halotolerant microbes derived from solar salts were abundant during middle or late fermentation. By contrast, non-halophilic microbes derived from meju were abundant mainly during early fermentation. Debaryomyces, Tetragenococcus, and Staphylococcus were abundant in all ganjang batches, which suggested that these may be the most common microbes involved in ganjang fermentation. The salt concentrations did not affect the abundance of Debaryomyces, which was abundant in all ganjang batches. Tetragenococcus was abundant in low salt ganjang, whereas Staphylococcus was abundant in high salt ganjang. Metabolite analysis revealed that carbohydrate concentrations were high in ganjang prepared using high amounts of meju. The level of lactate, which may be largely produced by Tetragenococcus, in low salt ganjang was high because of high microbial activity. The amino acid concentrations of the ganjang batches were mainly associated with meju quantity, but not salt concentration. These results indicated that the production of amino acids may be associated with indigenous proteases in meju, but not microbial activities during ganjang fermentation.

Roseomonas algicola sp. nov., isolated from a green alga, Pediastrum duplex

A Gram-stain-negative, strictly aerobic bacterium, designated strain PeD5^T, was isolated from a green alga Pediastrum duplex from the Nakdong river of the Republic of Korea. Cells were non-motile cocci, catalase-negative and oxidase-positive. Growth of PeD5^T was observed at 25-40 °C (optimum, 35 °C) and pH 5.0-10.0 (optimum, pH 7-8), and in the presence of 0-0.25% (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 0%). PeD5^T contained C_16:0, C_18:1ω7c 11-methyl, summed feature 3 (comprising C_16:1ω7c and/or C_16:1ω6c) and summed feature 8 (comprising C_18:1ω7c and/or C_18:1ω6c) as major cellular fatty acids (>5%) and ubiquinone-10 as the sole isoprenoid quinone. Phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, an unidentified phospholipid and an unidentified aminolipid were detected as major polar lipids. The genomic DNA G+C content of PeD5^T was 71.0 mol%. PeD5^T was most closely related to Roseomonas stagni HS-69^T with a 97.6% 16S rRNA sequence similarity and shared less than 96.3% 16S rRNA sequence similarities with type strains of other species. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that PeD5^T formed a phyletic lineage with Roseomonas stagni HS-69^T within the genus Roseomonas. On the basis of results of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular analysis, strain PeD5^T clearly represents a novel species of the genus Roseomonas, for which the name Roseomonas algicola sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is PeD5^T (=KACC 19925^T=JCM 33309^T).

Arenimonas terrae sp. nov., isolated from orchard soil

A Gram-stain-negative, strictly aerobic bacterial strain, designated R29^T, was isolated from orchard soil in Hwasun, South Korea. Cells were non-motile rods with catalase and oxidase activities. Growth was observed at 15-40 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and pH 7.0-9.0. Ubiquinone-8 was identified as the predominant isoprenoid quinone. Major polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine, six phospholipids, an unidentified aminolipid and two unidentified polar lipids. Strain R29^T contained iso-C_15 : 0, iso-C_16 : 0 and summed feature 9 (comprising iso-C_17 : 1 ω9c/10-methyl-C_16 : 0) as major cellular fatty acids. The G+C content of the genomic DNA calculated from the whole-genome sequence was 69.8 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that R29^T was most closely related to Arenimonas daejeonensis T7-07^T and Arenimonas malthae CC-JY-1^T with sequence similarities of 98.0 and 96.9 %, respectively The average nucleotide identity and in silico DNA-DNA hybridization values between R29^T and the type strains of A. daejeonensis and A. malthae were 87.0 % and 31.6 % and 83.4 % and 26.1 %, respectively. On the basis of the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular features, strain R29^T represents a novel species of the genus Arenimonas, for which the name Arenimonas terrae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is R29^T (=KACC 19896^T=JCM 33216^T).

Genomic and metabolic features of Tetragenococcus halophilus as revealed by pan-genome and transcriptome analyses

The genomic and metabolic diversity and features of Tetragenococcus halophilus, a moderately halophilic lactic acid bacterium, were investigated by pan-genome, transcriptome, and metabolite analyses. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene and genome sequences of 15 T. halophilus strains revealed their phylogenetic distinctness from other Tetragenococcus species. Pan-genome analysis of the T. halophilus strains showed that their carbohydrate metabolic capabilities were diverse and strain dependent. Aside from one histidine decarboxylase gene in one strain, no decarboxylase gene associated with biogenic amine production was identified from the genomes. However, T. halophilus DSM 20339^T produced tyramine without a biogenic amine-producing decarboxylase gene, suggesting the presence of an unidentified tyramine-producing gene. Our reconstruction of the metabolic pathways of these strains showed that T. halophilus harbors a facultative lactic acid fermentation pathway to produce l-lactate, ethanol, acetate, and CO₂ from various carbohydrates. The transcriptomic analysis of strain DSM 20339^T suggested that T. halophilus may produce more acetate via the heterolactic pathway (including d-ribose metabolism) at high salt conditions. Although genes associated with the metabolism of glycine betaine, proline, glutamate, glutamine, choline, and citrulline were identified from the T. halophilus genomes, the transcriptome and metabolite analyses suggested that glycine betaine was the main compatible solute responding to high salt concentration and that citrulline may play an important role in the coping mechanism against high salinity-induced osmotic stresses. Our results will provide a better understanding of the genome and metabolic features of T. halophilus, which has implications for the food fermentation industry.

[Application of optical coherence tomography angiography in evaluation of retinal microvascular changes in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome]

Objective: To assess the changes of retinal microvasculature in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) evaluated by optical coherence tomography (OCTA). Methods: Adult OSAS patients who visited Beijing Tongren Hospital from Jan 2016 to Apr 2016 and complained of snoring were included in this study. The patients' general information, results of polysomnography, and OCTA parameters were collected. Patients were divided into three groups according to their apnea hypopnea index (AHI) results: Mild-moderate group, AHI≤30/h; Severe group, 30/h<AHI≤60/h; Extremely severe group, AHI>60/h, and clinical characteristics, polysomnography and OCTA parameters among the three groups were compared. Results: A total of 27 patients were included in this study with 21 males (77.8%) and 6 females (22.2%). Mean age was (41.7±10.0) years, and the mean body mass index was (27.9±4.5) kg/m(2;) Neck circumference was 31-48 cm, mean (39.8±4.3) cm; 8 patients (29.6%) suffered from hypertension that could be controlled; Epworth sleepiness scale scored 1-18 points and mean (8.5±4.4) scores; AHI ranged between 5.5 and 92.1/h with a mean of (46.4±28.6)/h. There were 9 (33.3%), 7 (25.9%), and 11 (40.7%) patients in mild-moderate group, severe group, and extremely severe group, respectively. Compared with severe group, the optic nerve head and radial peripapillary capillaries (RPC) peripapillary vascular density in extremely severe group were significantly decreased (62.4%±1.9% vs 60.3%±1.9%, P=0.041; 64.7%±1.7% vs 62.2%±2.3%, P=0.036). Conclusions: OCTA has rapid, safe, and objective characteristics in assessing the retinal microvascular changes in OSAS patients. Retinal microvascular damage in patients with OSAS is associated with the disease severity. Reduction of retinal microvascular density in patients with OSAS may be associated with intermittent hypoxia.

[The effect of the nasal packing material on nasal epithelial cells]

Objective:The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of polyethylene glycol acrylate hybrid hydrogel degradation substance on nasal mucociliary transport system. Method:In our experiment, the complex hydrogel were formed by the combination of different ratios of polyethyleneglycol diacrylate, chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol. The experiment was divided into four groups according to the international standard of medical devices. DMEM/F12∶BEGM culture medium was used for each packing material extraction, DMEM/F12∶BEGM culture medium was used as control. Human nasal uncinate tissue, gas liquid interface culture of human nasal mucociliary epithelium cells. The high frequency digital microscope video imaging system was used to detect the ciliary wiggle frequency. The baseline state (0 min) and 1 h,1 d, 2 d, 3 d of CBF were measured after dosing. Result:①In the experimental group and the control group, with the increase of the number of days, the ciliary beat frequency increased first and then slowed down. ②Compared with the other groups, Polyethylene glycol acrylate hybrid hydrogel group increase on CBF (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the maximum increase and the maximum decrease in B, C and D groups (P>0.05). Therefore, it can be concluded that absorbable gelatin sponge material and absorbable chitosan material had no effect on nasal mucociliary activity. Conclusion:Polyethylene glycol diacrylate composite hydrogel material can increase the frequency of ciliary wounded nasal mucosa epithelial cells cultured in air-liquid interface in vitro, and enhanced the activity of nasal mucosa cilia. Therefore, it can meet the safety requirements of clinical application of the new material.

[Differential evaluation of diagnostic criteria for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome]

Objective:To evaluate the difference of accessing pediatric sleep symptoms and living qualities between 3 diagnostic criteria: American Thoracic Society (ATS), International Classification of Sleep Disorder (ICSD-3), domestic Urumqi criterion (Draft); To investigate the relationship of PSG parameters and quality of life scale OSA-18. Method:Children with snoring who received PSG in Capital Medical University Beijing Tongren Hospital were recruited from Jan 2016 to Apr 2017. Subjects were diagnosed and grouped to SS, ICSD, ATS&ICSD (ATS&ICSD1, ATS&ICSD2) according to 3 criteria: ATS (AHI>5 or OAI>1), ICSD-3 (OAHI≥1) and Urumqi (AHI>5 or OAI>1, with LSaO₂<92%). Subjects' height, weight as well as quality of life scale OSA-18 were recorded. Result:Five hundred and fifteen children were finally included (Male: 350 cases, Female: 165 cases). There were 315, 70 and 130 children in group SS, ICSD, ATS&ICSD respectively. Weights and BMI of ICSD and ATS&ICSD were significantly higher than those of SS (P<0.05), and dysplasia scale of ATS&ICSD was higher than SS (P<0.05); after adjusting height, weight and BMI, sub-scores of sleep disorder were statistically different between 3 groups (P<0.05). Numbers and indexes of respiratory events other than central apneas and hypopneas in group SS, ICSD and ATS&ICSD were increased sequentially and statistically different (P<0.05); numbers and indexes of respiratory events other than mixed apneas in ATS&ICSD2 were significantly higher than that of ATS&ICSD1 (P<0.05). Conclusion:OAHI≥1/h combined with LSaO₂<92% should be used as pediatric OSAHS diagnostic criterion.

[Efficacy and safety of Xiaoaiping combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced esophageal cancer]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Xiaoaiping combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced esophageal cancer. Methods: This is a multi-center, randomized, open label and parallel controlled study. A total of 124 advanced esophageal cancer patients with Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) score ≥60 and expected survival time≥3 months were enrolled. We adopted design and divided the patients into study and control group. The patients in study group received Xiaoaiping combined with S-1 and cisplatin. The control group received S-1 and cisplatin. Each group included 62 patients and 21 days as a treatment cycle. The efficacy and adverse events in patients of the two groups were observed and compared. Results: 57 patients in the study group and 55 in the control group were included in efficacy assessment. The response rate was 54.4% and 34.5% in the study group and control group, respectively(P<0.05). Disease control rates were 86.0% and 69.1%, respectively(P<0.05). The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 7.97 in the study group and 6.43 months in the control group(P<0.05). The median overall survival(OS) was 12.93 in the study group and 10.93 months in the control group(P<0.05). The most common adverse events in the two groups were nausea and vomiting, thrombocytopenia, anemia, neutropenia, liver damage, pigmentation, oral mucositis, renal impairment and diarrhea. The incidences of nausea, vomiting, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, neutropenia and diarrhea in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group(P<0.05). Conclusion: Xiaoaiping combined with S-1 and cisplatin significantly increased response rate, and prolongedpatients' survival in patients with advanced esophageal cancer.

[The implantation of Bonebridge in bilateral congenital malformation of external and middle ear]

Objective: To evaluate the auditory efficacy of Bonebridge implantation in patients with bilateral congenital malformation of external and middle ear. Methods: Eleven cases (6 males and 5 females) had unilateral Bonebridge implantation. The age ranged from 8 to 26 and the average age was 16.9. Seven to ten days after operation, the first fitting was undergone. In acoustic sound field, the average auditory thresholds were respectively measured for unaided ears and Bonebridge implanted ears by pure tone auditory (PTA, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 kHz). For the group over 12-year-old, MSTM was applied to evaluate speech discrimination score (SDS). For the other cases, MLNT was used as the test material. The auditory efficacy post Bonebridge implantation would be analyzed and evaluated by comparing the differences between unaided ears and Bonebridge implanted ears. Results: The bone conduction audibility threshold after Bonebridge implantation was as well as the preoperative. The auditory threshold with Bonebridge aided was improved to 25-35 dB HL, when compared to that of the unaided ears in the sound field. The SDS in the group over 12-year-old was improved about 50%; the efficacy was slightly limited for the other two cases (both less than 12 years old). Statistical analysis showed that there were significant differences between unaided ears and Bonebridge implanted ears in the sound field and SDS(P<0.05). Conclusions: The auditory efficacy of Bonebridge is significant and noticeable in patients with bilateral congenital malformation of external and middle ear. Bonebridge provides a new and effective way for patient with congenital malformation of external and middle ear to reconstruct hearing.

[Efficacy and security of matched unrelated donor hematopoietic stem cell transplant with transfusion of multipotent mesenchymal cells in pediatric severe aplastic anemia]

目的

探讨HLA相合无关供者造血干细胞移植（MUD-HSCT）联合脐带间充质干细胞（MSC）输注治疗儿童重型再生障碍性贫血（SAA）的疗效及安全性。

方法

回顾性分析19例行MUDHSCT联合MSC治疗的儿童SAA患者临床资料，观察移植后造血重建及移植相关并发症。

结果

19例患儿移植后均获得迅速造血重建，粒细胞中位植入时间为12(9~21) d，血小板中位植入时间为14(8~24) d, 1例患儿于移植后4个月出现继发植入失败。9例患儿发生Ⅰ度急性移植物抗宿主病（aGVHD），1例发生Ⅲ度aGVHD并于移植后6个月发生广泛型慢性移植物抗宿主病。CMV阳性15例，出血性膀胱炎2例。10例患儿移植后出现不同程度、不同部位的感染。中位随访时间为27(8~70）个月，19例患儿截至随访终点均无病存活，其中1例患儿于移植后4个月发生淋巴细胞增殖性疾病，接受利妥昔单抗联合化疗治疗后发生继发性植入失败，后接受以父亲为供者的单倍体造血干细胞移植成功植入。

结论

MUD-HSCT联合MSC输注治疗儿童SAA是安全有效的。

Determination of patellar ligament and anterior cruciate ligament geometry using MRI

Ligament geometry is crucial to surgical treatment success in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This study aimed to optimize the MRI technique to elucidate the geometry of the patellar ligament (PL) and ACL in vivo. A 1.5-T superconducting MRI system with a special surface coil and fast spin echo was used to acquire high-resolution T1-weighted images (H-T1WI) of the ACL. The sagittal plane angle was 10° to 15° towards the inner side of the vertical line of the tangent line axis of the femoral intercondylar fossa. The H-T1WI images of the PL were centered at the lower margin of the patella and the center of the tibial tuberosity. The lengths of the PL and ACL were measured using a Radworks 5.1 workstation. ACL and PL lengths were compared between left and right knees and between genders, and left PL length measurements obtained separately by three doctors underwent correlation analysis. The quality of the images satisfied the clinical measurement requirements. The duration of sagittal image acquisition was 2 min and 25 s. The average PL length was 42.20 ± 4.21 and 40.15 ± 4.00 mm, and the average ACL length was 36.98 ± 4.12 and 35.80 ± 4.67 mm, in male and female subjects, respectively. The intraclass correlation coefficients of the PL lengths obtained by the three specialists were greater than 0.997. This MRI technique provides highly stable and repeatable in vivo data of PL and ACL geometry relevant to ACL reconstruction surgery with PL grafts.

Treatment of silicosis with hepatocyte growth factor-modified autologous bone marrow stromal cells: a non-randomized study with follow-up

Pulmonary silicosis is an irreversible and untreatable disease that is characterized by interstitial lesions and perpetual fibrosis in the lungs. This study was performed to determine whether mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) could exhibit therapeutic effects on human silicosis. This non-randomized uncontrolled trial comprised four patients with pulmonary silicosis who had developed lung fibrosis and received autologous bone marrow MSCs previously transfected by a vector containing human HGF cDNA (MSCs/HGF). MSCs/HGF were intravenously administered weekly for three consecutive weeks at a dose of 2 x 10(6) cells/kg. Pulmonary function, high kilo-voltage chest X-ray radiography, computed tomography (CT) scan, and peripheral blood lymphocyte subset and serum IgG concentrations were evaluated after cell therapy. The treatment was found to be generally safe. Symptoms such as cough and chest distress gradually ameliorated at six months post-therapy, accompanied by the significant improvement of pulmonary function. The ratios of the peripheral CD4- and CD8- positive cell concentrations were increased (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the serum IgG levels in these patients were decreased and reached the normal range (P < 0.05). CT scans showed partial absorption of the nodular and reticulonodular lesions in the lungs during follow-up of at least 12 months. The effectiveness of this novel regimen observed in these patients suggests that a placebo-controlled clinical trial needs to be developed. This study carries trial registration No. NCT01977131 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Towards a consensus on a hearing preservation classification system

CONCLUSION

The comprehensive Hearing Preservation classification system presented in this paper is suitable for use for all cochlear implant users with measurable pre-operative residual hearing. If adopted as a universal reporting standard, as it was designed to be, it should prove highly beneficial by enabling future studies to quickly and easily compare the results of previous studies and meta-analyze their data.

OBJECTIVES

To develop a comprehensive Hearing Preservation classification system suitable for use for all cochlear implant users with measurable pre-operative residual hearing.

METHODS

The HEARRING group discussed and reviewed a number of different propositions of a HP classification systems and reviewed critical appraisals to develop a qualitative system in accordance with the prerequisites.

RESULTS

The Hearing Preservation Classification System proposed herein fulfills the following necessary criteria: 1) classification is independent from users' initial hearing, 2) it is appropriate for all cochlear implant users with measurable pre-operative residual hearing, 3) it covers the whole range of pure tone average from 0 to 120 dB; 4) it is easy to use and easy to understand.

Evaluation of organic contamination in urban groundwater surrounding a municipal landfill, Zhoukou, China

This paper investigates the organic pollution status of shallow aquifer sediments and groundwater around Zhoukou landfill. Chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons, monocylic aromatic hydrocarbons, halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, organochlorine pesticides and other pesticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been detected in some water samples. Among the detected eleven PAHs, phenanthrene, fluorine, and fluoranthene are the three dominant in most of the groundwater samples. Analysis of groundwater samples around the landfill revealed concentrations of PAHs ranging from not detected to 2.19 μg/L. The results show that sediments below the waste dump were low in pollution, and the shallow aquifer, at a depth of 18-30 m, was heavily contaminated, particularly during the wet season. An oval-shaped pollution halo has formed, spanning 3 km from west to east and 2 km from south to north, and mainly occurs in groundwater depths of 2-4 m. For PAH source identification, both diagnostic ratios of selected PAHs and principal component analysis were studied, suggesting mixed sources of pyro- and petrogenic derived PAHs in the Zhoukou landfill. Groundwater table fluctuations play an important role in the distribution of organic pollutants within the shallow aquifer. A conceptual model of leachate migration in the Quaternary aquifers surrounding the Zhoukou landfill has been developed to describe the contamination processes based on the major contaminant (PAHs). The groundwater zone contaminated by leachate has been identified surrounding the landfill.

Opposing roles of IL-17A and IL-25 in the regulation of TSLP production in human nasal epithelial cells

BACKGROUND

The importance of IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-25 in allergic rhinitis (AR), as well as their possible role in regulation on thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) production in nasal epithelial cells, is not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the possible regulation of IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-25 on TSLP production in the initiation of allergic responses.

METHODS

The levels of IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-25, and TSLP in nasal lavages of patients with AR were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and compared with that in normal controls. Then, primary human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) were stimulated with dsRNA (0-75 microg/ml), as well as IL-17A (100 ng/ml), IL-17F (100 ng/ml), and IL-25(100 ng/ml). The mRNA expression of IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-25, TSLP, as well as the chemokines CCL20, IL-8, and eotaxin was analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR, and their protein levels in the supernatants of cultured HNECs were determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

Both TSLP and IL-17 cytokines are significantly elevated in patients with AR. dsRNA was found to increase the production of IL-17F, IL-25, TSLP, CCL20, and IL-8 in HNECs. Furthermore, IL-25 significantly enhanced dsRNA-induced TSLP production in primary HNECs and was dominant to the inhibitory effect of IL-17A on TSLP regulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides the first evidence that both IL-17F and IL-25 can be induced by dsRNA in HNECs. Despite of the opposing effects of IL-17A and IL-25 on TSLP regulation in HNECs, IL-25 was dominant to IL-17A, providing a plausible explanation for the simultaneous upregulation of IL-17 cytokines and TSLP in patients with AR.

Assay of AVP, CRP, and LPS in leukemia

The genesis and development of tumor are closely connected with immune system and neuroendocrine system. To investigate the changes of neuroendocrine and immune system in leukemia patients and their probable connection with leukemia, we studied five groups of patients including leukemia patients with normal temperature, leukemia patients with high temperature and infection (high-leukocyte count group and low leukocyte count group), general patients with fever and healthy Chinese adult blood donors as control group. We determined their blood cell counts by blood count meter, determined their arginine vasopressin (AVP) levels in blood plasma by radioimmunoassay and their cross-reacting protein (CRP), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels by immunoturbidimetry. Then we studied the difference and association among these indexes. Our results revealed a significant increase of AVP, LPS, and CRP levels in the blood of leukemia patients with normal temperature vs. normal people; Individual leukemia patients had high AVP levels although they had normal LPS and CRP levels; In the group of leukemia patients with high temperature and low leukocyte counts, the CRP level is significantly higher than some of other groups, while there was no significant increase in its AVP level. We conclude that no matter the temperature is normal or not, there were always neuroendocrine disturbance, inflammation, and inapparent infection in leukemia patient; To the leukemia patients with low leukocyte counts, the relationship between inflammation and neuroendocrine is more complicated.

Expression of 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and P450 side chain cleavage enzyme in the human uterine endometrium

The enzyme complex 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Delta5-Delta4-isomerase (3beta-HSD) is involved in the biosynthesis of all classes of active steroids. The expression of 3b-HSD in human uterine endometrium during the menstrual cycle and decidua was examined in an effort to understand its role during ova implantation. 3beta-HSD was weakly expressed in the glandular epithelium of the proliferative phase and moderately expressed in the glandular epithelium of secretory phase of the endometrium. In the decidua of the ectopic pregnancy, 3beta-HSD was strongly expressed. The human uterine endometrial 3beta-HSD was identified as being the same type as the placental 3beta-HSD by RT-PCR and sequence analysis. In addition to the expression of 3beta-HSD, P450scc was expressed in the decidua of the ectopic pregnancy. These results suggest that pregnenolone might be synthesized from cholesterol by P450scc de novo and then, it is converted to progesterone by 3beta-HSD in the uterine endometrium. The data implies that the endometrial 3beta-HSD can use not only the out-coming pregnenolone from the adrenal gland but also the self- made pregnenolone to produce progesterone. The de novo synthesis of progesterone in the endometrium might be a crucial factor for implantation and maintenance of pregnancy.

Molecular cloning of kpcA gene encoding a Kex2p-like endoprotease from Aspergillus nidulans

We cloned and sequenced a gene, kpcA (Kex2p-like proprotein convertase A), from a genomic library of Aspergillus nidulans. The kpcA gene encodes an 820-residue protein, named KpcA, which contains a putative subtilisin-like catalytic domain (residues 136-466) homologous to that of the subtilisin serine protease family. KpcA shows 56, 73, and 47% amino acid identities with Saccharomyces cerevisiae Kex2p, Aspergillus niger KexB, and mouse furin within the subtilisin-like catalytic domain, respectively. The sequences around the proposed active site Asp, His, and Ser residues of KpcA are similar to those of other Kex2p family members. The KpcA mRNA transcript with an expected size of approximately 2.8 kb was detected in A. nidulans. The substrate specificity of KpcA, expressed in CHO cells, is similar to that of A. niger KexB and yeast Kex2p. We conclude that KpcA is a resident Kex2p-like proprotein that processes endoprotease in A. nidulans.

The nsdD gene encodes a putative GATA-type transcription factor necessary for sexual development of Aspergillus nidulans

The ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually is one of the characteristics of the homothalic ascomycete Aspergillus nidulans. Unlike the other Aspergillus species, A. nidulans undergoes sexual development that seems to be regulated by internal and external stimuli. To begin to understand the sexual reproduction of A. nidulans we previously isolated and characterized several NSD (never in sexual development) mutants that failed to produce any sexual reproductive organs, and identified four complementation groups, nsdA, nsdB, nsdC, and nsdD. The nsdD gene has been isolated, and it is predicted to encode a GATA-type transcription factor with the type IVb zinc finger DNA-binding domain. The mRNA of the nsdD gene started to accumulate in the early phase of vegetative growth, and the level increased as sexual development proceeded. However, it decreased during asexual sporulation and no nsdD mRNA was detected in conidia. Deletion of nsdD resulted in no cleistothecia (fruiting bodies) formation, even under the conditions that preferentially promoted sexual development, indicating that nsdD is necessary for sexual development. In contrast, when the nsdD gene was over-expressed, sexual-specific organ (Hülle cell) was formed even in submerged culture, which normally completely blocked sexual development, and the number of cleistothecia was also dramatically increased on solid medium. These results lead us to propose that the nsdD gene functions in activating sexual development of A. nidulans. Multiple copies of the nsdD gene could suppress nsdB5 and veA1, indicating that either nsdD acts downstream of these genes or possibly functions in overlapping pathway(s).

The IsdA gene is necessary for sexual development inhibition by a salt in Aspergillus nidulans

Using one of 17 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) previously identified as specific to the late sexual developmental (LSD) stage of Aspergillus nidulans, a gene for the subject EST was isolated. The determined DNA sequences revealed an open reading frame encoding a 356 amino acid polypeptide which does not share a sequence similarity to previously identified genes or proteins. The isolated gene was named lsdA (late sexual development), since it was expressed abundantly at the LSD stage. The lsdA gene expression began earlier than at the LSD stage. Disruption of the lsdA gene in the veA+ background strongly induced sexual development under conditions where sexual development in wild-type strains is almost completely inhibited. In contrast, in the veA1 background, an lsdA null mutant failed to show any phenotypic difference in sexual development under the various conditions tested. These results indicate that the lsdA gene may be responsible for inhibiting the sexual development of veA+ strains by a high concentration of a salt.

Differential expression of house-keeping genes of Aspergillus nidulans during sexual development

The rpl3 gene and the rpl37 gene for Aspergillus nidulans ribosomal protein L3 (RPL3) and RPL37, which were identified as located on chromosome I and chromosome III, respectively, were isolated from chromosome-specific cosmid libraries. The nucleotide sequences of both of the rpl3 gene and the rpl37 gene identified the ORFs of 392 amino acids and 92 amino acids, respectively. Both of the two genes were present in a single copy. The expression of both genes together with two other house-keeping genes, the rps16 gene for RPS16 and the gene for gamma-actin, was analyzed during sexual development. All four genes showed nearly identical expression patterns in that each gene expression reached its maximum after 2 h, decreased thereafter, and increased again after 30-40 h of induction of sexual development.