Use of basic amino acids to improve gel properties of PSE-like chicken meat proteins isolated via ultrasound-assisted alkaline extraction

To improve the gel quality of pale, soft, and exudative (PSE)-like chicken protein isolate (PPI) obtained via ultrasound-assisted alkaline extraction (UAE), l-lysine (l-Lys), l-arginine (l-Arg), or l-histidine (l-His) were used and the effects on the thermal gelling characteristics of PPI were studied. Compared with the nonbasic amino acid addition group, the addition of l-His/l-Arg/l-Lys significantly increased the solubility and absolute zeta potential of PPI, whereas reduced the particle size and turbidity (p < 0.05). They enhanced the gel strength and textural properties of PPI (p < 0.05) and reduced the cooking loss of PPI in the following order: l-Lys > l-Arg > l-His. The solubility, gel strength, and hardness of PPI with l-Lys were increased by 18.6%, 44.6%, and 57.6%, respectively, and cooking loss was decreased by 18.1%. Low-field nuclear magnetic resonance and magnetic resonance imaging revealed that basic amino acids addition decreased the water mobility in PPI gels with increasing immobile water content. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the addition of basic amino acids promoted the formation of a more uniform and tight network microstructure in PPI gels. The α-helix content was decreased, whereas the β-sheet content was increased in PPI gels after basic amino acid addition. Therefore, addition of basic amino acids, especially l-Lys, enhances the gel properties of PPI. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study revealed that adding basic amino acids effectively improved the gel properties of PPI obtained via UAE method, with l-Lys exerting the best improvement effect. Our findings highlight the application value of PSE-like meat by the improvement of gel characteristics of PPI, providing a theoretical reference for the processing and utilization of PPI.

[Survey of Helicobacter pylori levofloxacin and clarithromycin resistance rates and drug resistance genes in Ningxia, 2020-2022]

Objective: To explore the rate of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin and the common mutation patterns of resistance genes in Ningxia, and to assess the concordance between phenotypic resistance and genotypic resistance. Methods: Cross-sectional study. Patients diagnosed with Hp infection in 14 hospitals in Ningxia region from February 2020 to May 2022 were retrospectively selected. Hp strains were isolated from gastric biopsy specimens of Hp-infected patients and subjected to phenotypic drug sensitivity testing and detection of resistance genes to analyze the rate of Hp resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin and the common mutation patterns of resistance genes in Ningxia region; and the concordance rate and Kappa concordance test were used to assess the concordance between phenotypic resistance and genotypic resistance. Results: A total of 1 942 Hp strains were isolated and cultured, and among the infections, 1 069 cases (55.0%) were male and 873 cases (45.0%) were female, aged (50.0±12.5) years (15-86 years). The rates of Hp resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin in Ningxia were 42.1% (818/1 942) and 40.1% (779/1 942), respectively, and the rate of dual resistance to both was 22.8% (443/1 942). The rate of resistance to levofloxacin and clarithromycin of Hp strains from female patients was higher than in male patients (levofloxacin: 50.4%(440/873) vs 35.4%(378/1 069); clarithromycin: 44.4%(388/873) vs 36.6%(391/1 069), both P<0.001). Among the GyrA gene mutations associated with levofloxacin resistance, the differences in mutation rate of amino acid at positions 87 and 91 were statistically significant in both drug-resistant and sensitive strains(both P<0.001), except for Asn87Thr. Hp strains were statistically significant for levofloxacin (Kappa=0.834, P<0.001) and clarithromycin (Kappa=0.829, P<0.001) had good concordance in resistance at the phenotypic and genotypic levels. Conclusion: The resistance of Hp to levofloxacin and clarithromycin in Ningxia region is severe, and there is good consistency between genotypic and phenotypic resistance.

[Association study of serum LncRNA MALAT1 and SAA with type 2 diabetic kidney disease]

To investigate the correlation of serum long noncoding RNA-metastasis associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1(LncRNA MALAT1) and serum amyloid A(SAA) with diabetic kidney disease. Retrospective research was used, and 40 patients with type 2 diabetes and 80 patients with type 2 diabetic kidney disease patients who were treated in Tianjin Medical University Chu Hsien-I Memorial Hospital from August 2021 to February 2022 were selected, and 40 healthy subjects were selected during the same period. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR) was used to detect serum LncRNA MALAT1. SAA were detected with enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Automatic biochemistry analyzer was used to detect serum creatinine (CREA) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),automatic blood glucose analyzer to detect serum fasting plasma glucose (FPG), automatic glycated hemoglobin analyzer to detect hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), and automatic immunoassay analyzer to detect urinary albumin to creatinine ratio(UACR). Differences between groups were compared by t test and analysis of variance. Pearson analysis was used to analyze the correlation between MALAT1, SAA and other indicators. Receiver operating characteristic curve(ROC) was used to evaluate the auxiliary diagnostic value of MALAT1 and SAA for diabetic kidney disease. The results showed that MALAT1 and SAA in the diabetic kidney disease with mass albuminuria group were higher than those in the type 2 diabetes mellitus group (q=8.57, P<0.01; q=11.09, P<0.01) and the diabetic kidney disease with microalbuminuria group (q=3.96, P<0.05; q=7.85, P<0.01). MALAT1 had a high correlation with UACR, CREA, SAA, HbA1c and FPG (r value was 0.706, 0.643, 0.578, 0.553, and 0.524, all P<0.01), and SAA had a high correlation with UACR, HbA1c and FPG (r value was 0.664, 0.617, and 0.595, all P<0.01). ROC curve analysis of the diagnostic value of LncRNA MALAT1 and protein SAA for diabetic kidney disease showed that the areas under curve (AUC) were 0.741 and 0.744, respectively. The combined diagnostic value of the two was the greatest (AUC=0.801). In summary, MALAT1 and SAA were elevated in the serum of patients with type 2 diabetes. Their concentrations in the serum of group with diabetic kidney disease were higher than that in the type 2 diabetes group, and the serum concentrations of MALAT1 and SAA in group with mass albuminuria are higher than the group with microalbuminuria. MALAT1 and SAA were both closely related to UACR and HbA1c, and there is a correlation between them. Both of them may have ancillary diagnostic value for diabetic kidney disease.

[Clinical characteristics of 272 437 patients with different histopathological subtypes of primary esophageal malignant tumors]

Objective: To characterize the histopathological subtypes and their clinicopathological parameters of gender and onset age by common, rare and sparse primary esophageal malignant tumors (PEMT). Methods: A total of 272 437 patients with PEMT were enrolled in this study, and all of the patients were received radical surgery. The clinicopathological information of the patients was obtained from the database established by the State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment from September 1973 to December 2020, which included the clinical treatment, pathological diagnosis and follow-up information of esophagus and gastric cardia cancers. All patients were diagnosed and classified by the criteria of esophageal tumor histopathological diagnosis and classification (2019) of the World Health Organization (WHO). The esophageal tumors, which were not included in the WHO classification, were analyzed separately according to the postoperative pathological diagnosis. The χ² test was performed by the SPSS 25.0 software on count data, and the test standard α=0.05. Results: A total of 32 histopathological types were identified in the enrolled PEMT patients, of which 10 subtypes were not included in the WHO classification. According to the frequency, PEMT were divided into common (esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, ESCC, accounting for 97.1%), rare (esophageal adenocarcinoma, EAC, accounting for 2.3%) and sparse (mainly esophageal small cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, etc., accounting for 0.6%). All the common, rare, and sparse types occurred predominantly in male patients, and the gender difference of rare type was most significant (EAC, male∶ female, 2.67∶1), followed with common type (ESCC, male∶ female, 1.78∶1) and sparse type (male∶ female, 1.71∶1). The common type (ESCC) mainly occurred in the middle thoracic segment (65.2%), while the rare type (EAC) mainly occurred in the lower thoracic segment (56.8%). Among the sparse type, malignant melanoma and malignant fibrous histiocytoma were both predominantly located in the lower thoracic segment (51.7%, 66.7%), and the others were mainly in the middle thoracic segment. Conclusion: ESCC is the most common type among the 32 histopathological types of PEMT, followed by EAC as the rare type, and esophageal small cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma as the major sparse type, and all of which are mainly occur in male patients. The common type of ESCC mainly occur in the middle thoracic segment, while the rare type of EAC mainly in the lower thoracic segment. The mainly sparse type of malignant melanoma and malignant fibrous histiocytoma predominately occur in the lower thoracic segment, and the remaining sparse types mainly occur in the middle thoracic segment.

[Personalized therapy for Helicobacter pylori on initial treatment: the initial treatment is the decisive battle]

As widespread eradication treatment continues, the rate of (Helicobacter pylori, H. pylori) antibiotic resistance is increasing. Together with host CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms, H. pylori coccoid transformation, patient compliance, irregular treatment regimens or empirical repeated eradication therapy by physician, H. pylori eradication rates have gradually decreased. Personalized treatment is an effective measure to achieve successful eradication of H. pylori in the initial treatment. With the first approval of molecular diagnostic kit for H. pylori clarithromycin resistance in China and the updated definition of refractory H. pylori infection by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), the personalized treatment of H. pylori guided by antibiotic resistance genotype detection in initial treatment, that follows the latest international consensus and guidelines, conforms to the national situation and surpasses the international standards, has come to the forefront.

[CXCL5 inhibits tumor immune of lung cancer via modulating PD1/PD-L1 signaling]

Objective: To investigate the role of CXCL5 in tumor immune of lung cancer and to explore the potential molecular mechanisms. Methods: A total of 62 cases of patients with lung cancer admitted in the First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University from May 2018 to December 2019 were recruited as study object. Another 20 cases of patients with pulmonary infectious diseases and 20 cases of healthy control were selected as control. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine serum levels of CXCL5 in patients with lung cancer, pulmonary infectious diseases and healthy control. Immunohistochemical staining (IHC) was used to detect the expressions of CXCL5 and PD-1/PD-L1 in tumor and paracarcinoma tissues of patients with lung cancer. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between CXCL5 and PD-1 in tumor and paracarcinoma tissues of patients with lung cancer. Lewis cells either expressing CXCL5 or vector plasmids were used to establish C57BL/6J mice model of lung cancer, and all mice were then divided into vehicle and PD-1 antibody treatment groups, 10 mice for each group. The mice survival and tumor growth curves were recorded. IHC was used to evaluate the expressions of CXCL5, PD-1 as well as the proportions of CD8(+) T and Treg cells in xenograft tumor tissues. Results: In patients with lung cancer, the serum level of CXCL5 [(351.7±51.5) ng/L] was significant higher than that in patients with pulmonary infectious diseases and healthy control [(124.7±23.4) ng/L, P<0.001]. The expression levels of CXCL5 (0.136±0.034), CXCR2 (0.255±0.050), PD-1 (0.054±0.012) and PD-L1 (0.350±0.084) in tumor were significant higher than those in paracarcinoma normal tissues [(0.074±0.022), (0.112±0.023), (0.041±0.007) and (0.270±0.043) respectively, P<0.001]. CXCL5 was significant positively correlated with PD-1 in tumor tissues of lung cancer (r=0.643, P<0.001), but not correlated with PD-1 in paracarcinoma tissues(r=0.088, P=0.496). The vector control group, CXCL5 overexpression group, vector control + anti-PD-1 antibody treatment group and CXCL5 overexpression + anti-PD-1 antibody treatment group all successfully formed tumors in mice, while CXCL5 overexpression increased the tumor growth significantly (P<0.01), which was abrogated by the treatment of anti-PD-1 antibody. CXCL5 overexpression decreased the mice survival time significantly (P<0.01), this effect was also abrogated by the treatment of anti-PD-1 antibody. The proportion of CD8(+) T cells in CXCL5 overexpression group [(10.40±2.00)%] was significant lower than that in vector control group [(21.20±3.30)%, P=0.002]. The proportion of CD4(+) Foxp3(+) Treg cells in CXCL5 overexpression group [(38.40±3.70)%] was significant higher than that in vector control group [(23.30±2.25)%, P<0.001]. After the treatment of anti-PD-1 antibody, no significant difference were observed for the proportion of CD8(+) T cells [(34.10±5.00)% and (33.40±4.00)% respectively] and Treg cells [(14.70±3.50)% and (14.50±3.30)% respectively] in xenograft tumor tissues between CXCL5 overexpression+ anti-PD-1 antibody treatment group and vector control + anti-PD-1 antibody treatment group (P>0.05). Conclusion: The expressions of CXCL5 and PD-1/PD-L1 are all increased significantly in the tumor tissues of patients with lung cancer, CXCL5 may inhibit tumor immune of lung cancer via modulating PD-1/PD-L1 signaling.

[Effects of persistent Echinococcus multilocularis infections on hepatic fibrosis in mice]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of persistent Echinococcus multilocularis infections on hepatic fibrosis in mice, so as to provide insights into the understanding of liver fibrogenesis induced by E. multilocularis infections and the treatment of alveolar echinococcosis.

METHODS

Hepatic stellate HSC-T6 and LX-2 cells were exposed to the sera (25, 50 and 100 μL) from Meriones unguiculatus infected with E. multilocularis, and E. multilocularis, germinal layer cells (GCs) and protoscoleces (PSCs) for 48 hours, respectively. The cell proliferation was measured using a CCK-8 assay, and the levels of collagen 1 (Col1) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were measured in the culture supernatant of HSC-T6 cells using ELISA. In addition, the serum and liver samples were collected 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 months post-infection with E. multilocularis, respectively. The serum Col1 and α-SMA concentrations were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the deposition of collagen fibers was examined in mice livers using Sirius red staining.

RESULTS

The sera of E. multilocularis-infected gerbils promoted the proliferation of HSC-T6 and LX-2 cells in vitro, and there were significant differences seen in the proliferative rate of HSC-T6 (F_HSC-T6 = 126.50, P < 0.05) and LX-2 cells (F_LX-2 = 201.50, P < 0.05) among different serum groups, with the highest proliferative rate of HSC-T6 (573.36% ± 206.34%) and LX-2 cells (940.38% ± 61.65%) found following exposure to 100 μL mouse sera. Exposure to serum from E. multilocularis-infected gerbils resulted in an increase in the Col1 and α-SMA levels in the culture supernatant of HSC-T6 cells, with the greatest Col1 (20.99 ng/mL ± 2.01 ng/mL) and α-SMA levels (305.52 pg/mL ± 16.67 pg/mL) measured following exposure to 100 μL sera. The metacestodes (142.65% ± 9.17% and 189.99% ± 7.75%), GCs (118.55% ± 8.96% and 122.54% ± 0.21%) and PSCs of E. multilocularis (156.34% ± 17.45% and 160.59% ± 31.41%) all promoted the proliferation of HSC-T6 and LX-2 cells in vitro, and there were significant differences in the proliferative rates of HSC-T6 (F_HSC-T6 = 11.24, P < 0.05) and LX-2 cells among groups (F_LX-2 = 47.72, P < 0.05). Exposure to E. multilocularis resulted in an increase in Col1 and α-SMA levels in the culture supernatant of HSC-T6 cells, and the highest Col1 (4.43 ng/mL ± 2.23 ng/mL) and α-SMA levels (285.20 pg/mL ± 90.67 pg/mL) were detected following treatment with E. multilocularis metacestodes. In addition, a persistent increase was seen in the deposition of collagen fibers in mice livers 1 to 8 months post-infection with E. multilocularis, with the greatest Col1 level (280.26 ng/mL ± 23.04 ng/mL) seen 6 months post-infection and the highest α-SMA level (33.68 ng/mL ± 4.45 ng/mL) detected 8 months post-infection, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Persistent E. multilocularis infections promote hepatic stellate cell proliferation, induce an increase in mouse serum Col1 and α-SMA levels, and cause elevated deposition of collagen fibers in mice livers. The infective stage of E. multilocularis is a critical period for inducing hepatic fibrosis of alveolar echinococcosis.

[Effect of exosome-derived miR-223 from macrophages on the metastasis of gastric cancer cells]

Objective: To investigate the effect and mechanism of exosome-derived miR-223 from macrophage on gastric cancer (GC) cell metastasis. Methods: Exosomes isolated from macrophages culture medium were characterized and cocultured with GC cell, the miRNA level was detected by qRT-PCR. The migration and invasion of GC cell were detected by transwell. The internalization of exosomes, transfer of miR-223 was observed by immunofluorescence. Macrophage were transfected with a miR-223 inhibitor or negative control, transwell and scratch test were employed to explore the effect of macrophage derived exosome on the migration and invasion of GC cell. Western blot and RT-PCR assay were performed to uncover the underlying mechanisms of miR-223 and PTEN-PI3K/AKT pathway. Results: This study showed that macrophage and macrophage-derived exosomes promoted the migration and invasion of gastric cancer cell(253.2±6.3, 451.8±12.8, 453.4±14.4, all P<0.01, and 98.4±5.1, 276.5±10.3, 257.3±8.5, all P<0.01, respectively). miR-223 was enriched in macrophage-derived exosomes, which was transferred to the co-cultivated gastric cancer cells. miR-223 knockdown in macrophage reversed the migration and invasion of exosomes on gastric cancer cells(215.6±9.2, 402.5±11.6, 253.7±10.4, all P<0.01, and 91.5±8.2,263.4±9.3,105.8±9.3,all P<0.01, respectively).Functional studies revealed that exosomal miR-223 derived from macrophage promoted the metastasis of GC cells via the PTEN-PI3K/AKT pathway. In addition, itshowed thatthe actin cytoskeleton was altered, and multiple proteins associated with epithelial-mesenchymaltransition (EMT) were upregulated. Conclusion: Exosomal transfer of macrophage-derived miR-223 promote the metastasis of GC cells through targeting the PTEN-PI3K/AKT pathway.

[Comparison of short-term and long-term outcomes between thoracoscopic pneumonectomy and open pneumonectomy for non-small cell lung cancer: a study based on propensity score matching]

Objective: To compare the short-term and long-term results of thoracoscopic and open pneumonectomy for non-small cell lung cancer. Methods: The clinical data of patients with non-small cell lung cancer who underwent pneumonectomy in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qingdao University Hospital from January 2008 to December 2016 were collected. Totally 142 patients (55 in the thoracoscopic group and 87 in the open group) were included in the study. A total of 29 pairs of patients were successfully matched by propensity score matching (PSM). Perioperative outcomes and overall survival were compared between the two groups using t test, χ(2) test, Kaplan-Meier curve and Log-rank test, respectively. Results: Camparion with open group, the thoracoscopic group had longer operative time ((209.7±70.2) minutes vs. (171.3±43.5) minutes, t=2.50, P=0.02), more mediastinal lymph node dissection (M(Q(R)): 17(9) vs. 11(10), W=388, P=0.02) and shorter postoperative hospital stay (7.0(3.5) vs. 9.0(3.0), W=285, P=0.03). There was no significant difference in estimated blood loss, postoperative drainage time, dissected lymph node number, dissected lymph node station and perioperative complications. After PSM, there were no signifificant differences found in 3-year survival (71.4% vs. 48.1%, P=0.10) and 3-year disease-free survival (67.4% vs. 47.2%, P=0.13) between the two groups. Conclusion: Thoracoscopic pneumonectomy is safe and feasible for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer with more mediastinal lymph node dissection and accelerating recovery, and equivalent long-term prognosis when compared with open approach.

[Current status and prognosis of immune checkpoint inhibitors for esophageal cancer]

Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1/CD279) and cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Antigen-4 (CTLA-4) are important immune checkpoints, through the role of the corresponding ligands and inhibit T cell activation and production of cytokines, in maintaining the body's vital role in peripheral tolerance. The use of anti-CTLA-4/PD-1 /PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies to block the tumor signaling pathway has shown excellent anti-tumor efficacy in a variety of solid tumors, and it is expected that immunotherapy will be available for the treatment of 60% advanced tumors in the next decade. Esophageal cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and its 5-year survival rate is generally low. Currently, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery are the standard treatments for esophageal cancer, and there is no effective treatment scheme for patients with esophageal cancer who fail to respond to standard treatment. Due to the diversity of somatic cell gene mutations and the generation of neo-antigens in esophageal cancer, immunotherapy has become a feasible treatment scheme to improve the prognosis of esophageal cancer. In this situation, the application of immunotherapy for esophageal cancer or more specific immune checkpoint inhibitors has gradually become the focus of the treatment of esophageal cancer. Nowadays, the research of immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as ipilimumab, tremelimumab, pembrolizumab, nivolumab and avelumab on esophageal cancer is proceeding at an amazing speed. The phase Ⅰ b clinical study of immunotherapy for esophageal cancer, which previously attracted great interest, has been replaced by the phase Ⅲ clinical study, and the results of the relevant studies also show a good prospect for the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors for esophageal cancer. However, the prediction of therapeutic effect and the selection of the best candidates still need to be further studied.

Differences in maternal smoking across successive pregnancies - dose-dependent relation to BMI z-score in the offspring: an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Uncontrolled family factors may bias the estimation of the association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and offspring body mass index (BMI). The objective was to assess if there is an association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and offspring BMI z-score independent of factors in the siblings' shared environment and if such association is linear.

METHODS

We performed an individual patient data meta-analysis using five studies providing sibling data (45,299 children from 14,231 families). In a multi-level model, separating within-family and between-family effects and with random intercept for families, we analysed the dose-response association between maternal number of cigarettes per day during pregnancy and offspring's BMI z-score using B-splines to allow for non-linear associations.

RESULTS

A linear within-family effect for number of cigarettes smoked in the range from 1 to 30 cigarettes per day on the offspring's BMI z-score was observed. Each additional cigarette per day between sibling pregnancies resulted in an increase in BMI z-score of 0.007 (95% CI [0.006, 0.009]). A between family-effect emerged only with doses ≥25 cigarettes per day.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of cigarettes mothers smoke per day during pregnancy is positively associated with offspring BMI z-score even among siblings, suggesting that the association is not entirely explained by confounding by family factors.

[Short-term and long-term survival in sleeve lobectomy by video-assisted thoracic surgery versus thoracotomy basing on the propensity score matching]

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of patients with centrally located lung cancer in sleeve lobectomy by video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on consecutive patients with centrally located lung cancer who underwent sleeve lobectomy admitted in the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University from January 2010 to September 2014. Propensity score matching analysis was performed to compare patients for thoracoscopic surgery and open surgery. Twenty-one pairs (42 cases) patients were included for analysis. The t-test, χ(2) test or Fisher's exact probabilities was adopted, if appropriate, to compare demographics and outcomes between the 2 groups. The Kaplan-Meier method and the Log-rank test were used for the distributions of disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) and their comparisons. Results: After propensity score-matched analysis, the VATS group had a longer operative time ((296.9±73.6) minutes vs. (218.1±59.2) minutes, t=3.82, P=0.00), but shorter postoperative drainage time ((3.3±1.5) days vs. (2.0±3.0) days, t=-0.93, P=0.01) and hospitalization time((6.7±2.8) days vs. (12.1±8.7)days, t=-1.72, P=0.01) than that of the thoracotomy group. Perioperative complications, 1-year and 3-year disease-free and overall survival rates were not statistically different between the two groups. Conclusion: For suitable patients, sleeve lobectomy by VATS is an acceptable safe and effective surgical procedure for patients with central lung cancer.

Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Ribosomal Protein RPS9 in Echinococcus granulosus

Ribosomal protein S9 (RPS9) is an essential functional gene that participates in DNA repair and developmental regulations. A sequence homolog of RPS9 has been found to be upregulated in the protoscoleces (PSCs) of Echinococcus granulosus treated with artemisinin. However, E. granulosus RPS9 (EgRPS9) has not been identified before. In the present study, the 657-base pair (bp) cDNA encoding EgRPS9 was cloned. Amino acid sequence analysis showed that EgRPS9 was similar to the RSP9 proteins from Schistosoma japonicum (SjRPS9, 86%) and Schistosoma mansoni (SmRPS9, 79%). Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that EgRPS9, SmRPS9, and SjRPS9 were clustered together. We detected the EgRPS9 gene and protein expression in PSCs exposed to artesunate (AS) which displayed a dose-dependent reduction in PSC viability for 24 hr. The results showed that the EgRPS9 ratio of the 10-μM AS-treated ( P < 0.01) and 40-μM AS-treated ( P < 0.05) groups were increased from that of the control group. In addition, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the AS-treated groups increased in a dose-dependent manner compared to the level in the control group. In conclusion, the expression of EgRPS9 could be induced by ROS and might participate in the oxidative damage-based anti-parasite mechanism of AS treatment.

Linkage Disequilibrium Estimation of Chinese Beef Simmental Cattle Using High-density SNP Panels

Linkage disequilibrium (LD) plays an important role in genomic selection and mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL). In this study, the pattern of LD and effective population size (N_e) were investigated in Chinese beef Simmental cattle. A total of 640 bulls were genotyped with IlluminaBovinSNP50BeadChip and IlluminaBovinHDBeadChip. We estimated LD for each autosomal chromosome at the distance between two random SNPs of <0 to 25 kb, 25 to 50 kb, 50 to 100 kb, 100 to 500 kb, 0.5 to 1 Mb, 1 to 5 Mb and 5 to 10 Mb. The mean values of r² were 0.30, 0.16 and 0.08, when the separation between SNPs ranged from 0 to 25 kb to 50 to 100 kb and then to 0.5 to 1 Mb, respectively. The LD estimates decreased as the distance increased in SNP pairs, and increased with the increase of minor allelic frequency (MAF) and with the decrease of sample sizes. Estimates of effective population size for Chinese beef Simmental cattle decreased in the past generations and N_e was 73 at five generations ago.

Step terrace tuned anisotropic transport properties of highly epitaxial LaBaCo2O5.5+δ thin films on vicinal SrTiO3 substrates

Highly epitaxial LaBaCo2O5.5+δ (LBCO) thin films were grown on different miscut (001) SrTiO3 substrates (miscut angle of 0.5°, 3.0°, and 5.0°) to study the substrate surface step terrace effect on the in-plane electrical transport properties. The microstructure studies by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy indicate that the as-grown films are A-site disordered cubic perovskite structures with the c-axis highly oriented along the film growth direction. The four-probe scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) studies show that the LBCO thin films grown on the vicinal SrTiO3 substrates have a typical semiconductor behavior with the substrate surface terrace step inducing anisotropic electronic transport properties. These results indicate that in highly epitaxial thin films the surface terrace step induced local strains can play an important role in controlling the electronic transport properties and the anisotropic nature.

Polymorphism of MyoD1 and Myf6 genes and associations with carcass and meat quality traits in beef cattle

Myogenic determination factor 1 (MyoD1) and myogenic factor 6 (Myf6) genes belong to the myogenic differentiation (MyoD) gene family, which play key roles in growth and muscle development. The study aimed to investigate the effects of variants in cattle MyoD1 and Myf6 on carcass and meat traits. We screened single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of both genes in 8 cattle populations, including Simmental, Angus, Hereford, Charolais, Limousin, Qinchuan, Luxi, and Jinnan by sequencing. The G782A locus was identified in exon 1 of MyoD1 (MyoD1-BglI) as well as the T186C locus in exon 1 of Myf6 (Myf6-ApaLI). For the two SNPs, the A allele was significantly more frequent than the B allele in the populations tested. The χ(2) test showed that the MyoD1-BglI locus conformed to Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the 8 populations, as did the Myf6-ApaLI locus, with the exception of the Simmental population (P > 0.05). Association analysis revealed that the MyoD1-BglI locus was significantly associated with loin muscle area (LMA) (P < 0.05), and the Myf6-ApaLI locus was significantly associated with carcass length (CL) (P < 0.05). Animals with BB and AB genotypes for the MyoD1-BglI locus had larger LMAs compared to animals with AA genotype. Individuals with BB genotype had longer CLs compared to those with AA and AB genotypes. We conclude that the two SNPs might provide useful genetic markers, opening up new possibilities for cattle breeding and improvements in gene-assisted selection.

Polymorphism of SREBP1 is associated with beef fatty acid composition in Simmental bulls

The sterol regulatory element binding factor 1 gene (SREBP1) plays an important role in the biosynthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol, and in lipid metabolism. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of genetic polymorphisms of SREBP1 on the fatty acid composition of muscle and carcass traits in Simmental bulls and Snow Dragon black cattle. The 84-bp insertion/deletion (indel) in intron 5 of the bovine SREBP1 gene was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction to investigate its associations with traits. The results showed that the 84-bp indel in intron 5 was significantly associated with palmitoleic acid (C16:1), stearic acid (C18:0), saturated fatty acids (SFA), triglycerides (TAG), and the C16 index in Simmental bulls (P < 0.05). Cattle with the LL genotype had higher palmitic acid (C16:1), triglycerides, and C16 index but lower stearic acid (C18:0) and SFA compared to those with the LS genotype (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the 84-bp indel of SREBP1 could be used as a genetic marker for selecting Simmental breeding stock for healthier fatty acid composition.

Coexistent gestational choriocarcinoma and mixed adenocarcinoma of the uterus

OBJECTIVE

To report the first case of a uterine gestational choriocarcinoma coexisting with an endometrial carcinoma (EC) and to discuss its possible pathogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All tissues were examined histologically and monoclonal antibodies were used to evaluate the expression of HCG, HPL, P53, PTEN, and ER. Genotyping was performed on DNA extracted from the freshly dissected choriocarcinoma and the paraffin-embedded endometrial carcinoma along with parental blood DNA using multiplex STR-PCR at 16 loci.

RESULTS

Histology identified two distinct tumors: a uterine tumor containing cytotrophoblastic and syncytiotrophoblastic cells and a second distinct neoplasm composed of adenocarcinoma resembling endometrioid and mucinous adenocarcinoma. Genotyping of the choriocarcinoma revealed alleles from both the patient and her husband and was classified as biparental in origin. The endometrial adenocarcinoma contained only maternal alleles and was thus classified as maternal in origin.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first description of the simultaneous diagnosis of a uterine gestational choriocarcinoma and an EC within the same patient. DNA genotyping and immunohistochemistry are valuable tools in distinguishing the different origins of coexisting tumors.

Atomic scale fluctuations govern brittle fracture and cavitation behavior in metallic glasses

We perform atomistic simulations on the fracture behavior of two typical metallic glasses, one brittle (FeP) and the other ductile (CuZr), and show that brittle fracture in the FeP glass is governed by an intrinsic cavitation mechanism near crack tips in contrast to extensive shear banding in the ductile CuZr glass. We show that a high degree of atomic scale spatial fluctuations in the local properties is the main reason for the observed cavitation behavior in the brittle metallic glass. Our study corroborates with recent experimental observations of nanoscale cavity nucleation found on the brittle fracture surfaces of metallic glasses and provides important insights into the root cause of the ductile versus brittle behavior in such materials.

Effect of loading conditions on the dissociation behaviour of catch bond clusters

Under increasing tensile load, the lifetime of a single catch bond counterintuitively increases up to a maximum and then decreases exponentially like a slip bond. So far, the characteristics of single catch bond dissociation have been extensively studied. However, it remains unclear how a cluster of catch bonds behaves under tensile load. We perform computational analysis on the following models to examine the characteristics of clustered catch bonds: (i) clusters of catch bonds with equal load sharing, (ii) clusters of catch bonds with linear load sharing, and (iii) clusters of catch bonds in micropipette-manipulated cell detachment. We focus on the differences between the slip and catch bond clusters, identifying the critical factors for exhibiting the characteristics of catch bond mechanism for the multiple-bond system. Our computation reveals that for a multiple-bond cluster, the catch bond behaviour could only manifest itself under relatively uniform loading conditions and at certain stages of decohesion, explaining the difficulties in observing the catch bond mechanism under real biological conditions.

The biomimetic immunoassay based on molecularly imprinted polymer: a comprehensive review of recent progress and future prospects

Immunoassay, based on a selective affinity of the biological antibody for its antigen, is one of the most usual analytical methods in food safety and environmental chemistry. However, it presents several drawbacks because of the nature of the antibody. Molecular imprinting technique, due to its high selectivity and stability, ease of preparation and low cost, has shown great potential in producing artificial antibodies in biomimetic immunoassays. This article focuses on the recent states, advantages, current problems and outlooks of molecularly imprinted radio, fluoro, enzyme-linked and chemiluminescent immunoassays, and biomimetic immunosensor, with special emphasis on the challenges in developing biomimetic enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (BELISAs). The biomimetic immunoassay method will provide an important new analysis platform in food safety, although the sensitivity and specificity is relatively low.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

As a new simple analysis method, the biomimetic immunoassay has attractive prospect, although some limitations were existed in real-sample assay. In this critical review, some promising solutions for overcoming its drawbacks were put forward, which may promote the more quick development and extensive application of this method in food safety.

Sliding-induced non-uniform pre-tension governs robust and reversible adhesion: a revisit of adhesion mechanisms of geckos

Several mechanisms have been proposed in the literature to explain the robust attachment and rapid, controllable detachment of geckos' feet on vertical walls or ceilings, yet, it is still debatable, which one is ultimately responsible for geckos' extraordinary capabilities for robust and reversible adhesion. In this paper, we re-examine some of the key movements of geckos' spatula pads and seta hairs during attachment and detachment, and propose a sequence of simple mechanical steps that would lead to the extraordinary properties of geckos observed in experiments. The central subject under study here is a linear distribution of pre-tension along the spatula pad induced by its sliding motion with respect to a surface. The resulting pre-tension, together with a control of setae's pulling force and angle, not only allows for robust and strong attachment, but also enables rapid and controllable detachment. We perform computational modelling and simulations to validate the following key steps of geckos' adhesion: (i) creation of a linear distribution of pre-tension in spatula through sliding, (ii) operation of an instability envelope controlled by setae's pulling force and angle, (iii) triggering of an adhesion instability leading to partial decohesion along the interface, and (iv) complete detachment of spatula through post-instability peeling. The present work not only reveals novel insights into the adhesion mechanism of geckos, but also develops a powerful numerical simulation approach as well as additional guidelines for bioinspired materials and devices.

Association of SCD1 and DGAT1 SNPs with the intramuscular fat traits in Chinese Simmental cattle and their distribution in eight Chinese cattle breeds

Intramuscular fat (IMF) is a key parameter for evaluation of nutritional quality of beef, with its endogenous synthesis regulated by stearoyl CoA desaturase (SCD1) and diacylglycerol-acyl transferase 1 (DGAT1) genes in cattle. The object of this research was to evaluate the effect of SCD1 and DGAT1 polymorphisms on IMF trait in beef cattle and to estimate the frequency distribution of SNPs in the two genes in Chinese cattle populations. The SCD1 and DGAT1 polymorphisms were detected by PCR-single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) method in Chinese Simmental cattle and their associations with IMF traits were analyzed using the general linear model (GLM). The frequency distribution of SNPs in SCD1 and DGAT1 genes were detected by PCR-SSCP method and analyzed in seven other cattle populations. The results showed significant associations of SNPs SCD1-878, SCD1-762, and DGAT1 10433 and 10434 with IMF (%) and shearing force values (SFV; kg) in Chinese Simmental cattle. A haplotype combining SCD1-878C, SCD1-762T, and DGAT1 10433 and 10434-GC had the highest IMF, marbling score and shearing force. The polymorphic investigation indicated that the frequency of SCD1-878C or SCD1-762T was significantly higher in Chinese southern cattle (Leiqiong, Yunnan High pump, BMY or Minnan Cattle) than in Chinese northern cattle (Chinese Simmental, Luxi Cattle, Bohai Black or Chinese Holstein), while the frequency of DGAT1 10433 and 10434-GC in Chinese indigenous breed (Leiqiong, Yunnan High pump, BMY, Luxi Cattle, Bohai Black, or Minnan Cattle) was significantly lower than breeds with imported blood (Chinese Simmental or Chinese Holstein). These findings demonstrated that both the SCD1 and DGAT1 SNPs were prospect genetic markers for IMF traits, and the SCD1 SNPs could be used as a genetic marker for southern or northern blood in Chinese cattle.

Computational modeling for cell spreading on a substrate mediated by specific interactions, long-range recruiting interactions, and diffusion of binders

A continuum model was proposed to study cell spreading on a flat substrate mediated by specific interaction, long-range recruiting interaction, and the diffusion of binders. Specific interactions between the mobile receptors embedded in the cell membrane and ligands coated on the substrate surface result in cell adhesion to the substrate surface. This receptor-ligand interaction was described by a chemical reaction equation. Long-range recruiting interactions between the receptors and the substrate were simplified by a traction-separation law. The governing equations and boundary conditions were formulated for the entire process of cell spreading and solved using a finite element scheme. Parametric studies were conducted to investigate the effect of system parameters on the cell spreading kinetics. It is shown that kinetic factors play an important role in cell adhesion and three regimes, that is, the binder reaction limited regime, long-range recruiting force-driven binder recruitment limited regime, and the concentration gradient-driven diffusion limited regime, were identified.

Theory of directed nucleation of strained islands on patterned substrates

We develop a theoretical model to elucidate the nucleation of strained islands on patterned substrates. We show that island nucleation is directed to the preferred sites by a much lower energy barrier and smaller critical size. Strain relaxation directs island nucleation to the bottom of a pit rather than the top of a ridge as commonly perceived, while large surface energy anisotropy favors nucleation at both places. The theory explains some puzzling experimental results and provides useful guidelines for future experiments.

Extensive desulfurization of diesel by Rhodococcus erythropolis

The resting cells of a new isolate of Rhodococcus erythropolis FSD-2 were used to desulfurize diesel fuels. About 97% of the total sulfur content in the hydrodesulfurized diesel was removed by the two consecutive biodesulfurization (BDS) processes with the majority ( approximately 94%) being removed in the first treatment, resulting in diesel with a sulfur content of 5.7 microg ml(-1).

Selective nontemplated adsorption of organic molecules on nanofacets and the role of bonding patterns

A key element of functionalizing nanocrystals with organic molecules is the nontemplated selective adsorption of different molecules on different facets. Here we report scanning-tunneling-microscopy images of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic-dianhydride and 2,5-dimethyl-N,N'-dicyanoquinonediimine on silver, demonstrating selective adsorption on different facets. We also report first-principles calculations that account for the data and show that bonding, which controls selectivity, occurs via the end atoms, while the molecule's midregion arches away from the substrate. The results are also consistent with data that have been interpreted in terms of bonding via the midregion.

Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase-1, -3 at the implantation site of rhesus monkey during the early stage of pregnancy

We have examined the expression of MMP-2, TIMP-1, and TIMP-3 mRNA at the implantation site of rhesus monkeys during early stage of pregnancy using in situ hybridization and Northern blot analysis. The results indicate that MMP-2 mRNA was mainly localized in the chorinoic villi and epithelial plaque, suggesting that MMP-2 may be involved in the process of epithelial plaque and trophoblast invasion. TIMP-3 was specifically expressed in the cells around the spiral arteries and maternal-fetal interface. Therefore, TIMP-3 may be the main inhibitor that restricts the trophoblast invasion. The TIMP-1 mRNA was detected in trophoblast villi and maternal decidua; however, its distribution was not cell-specific, suggesting a general role in the protection of trophoblast villi and maternal decidua from proteolysis by the MMPs secreted by themselves.

[Nutrition condition of hyaluronic acid fermentation with Streptococcus zooepidemicus]

Based on the analysis of metabolic pathway Streptococcous zooepidemicus for hyaluronic acid (HA) synthesis, nucleotide, especially uracil, was considered to be important to cell growth and metabolism. When 0.005 g.L-1 uracil added in the media in which yeast extract as complex nitrogen source, cell growth and HA production were increased by 32% and 34% respectively. From analysis of amino acid in fermentation process, it was show that arginine(Arg) was needed for cell metabolism, and concentration of free Arg maintained at 0 g.L-1 in fermentation process, which was proposed to limit cell growth and HA production. By shake-flask experiment HA concentration reached 0.510 g.L-1 when 0.06 g.L-1 Arg added, in the fermentation with 2.5 L fermentor, when uracil 0.005 g.L-1 and Arg 0.06 g.L-1 were added, the rate of cell growth increased, maximum of specific growth rate, concentration of HA and HA molecular weight reached 0.67 h-1, 5.2 g.L-1 and 2.15 x 10(6) Da from 0.54 h-1, 4.2 g.L-1, 2.0 x 10(6) Da, respectively.

Reversible, nanometer-scale conductance transitions in an organic complex

Reversible conductance transitions are demonstrated on the molecular scale in a complex of 3-nitrobenzal malononitrile and 1, 4-phenylenediamine, by application of local electric field pulses. Both macroscopic and local current-voltage (I/V) measurements show similar electrical bistability behavior. The mechanism of the electrical bistability is discussed.

[Studies on fermentation conditions for the accumulation of poly-beta-hydroxybutyrate in Alcaligenes eutrophus]

The results of the cultivation of Alcaligenes eutrophus showed that nitrogen limitation or exhaustion could stimulate the substantial accumulation of PHB. But the exhaustion of nitrogen source in PHB formation period would result in the rapid drop of PHB synthetic rate. Oxygen limitation could also stimulate the formation of PHB, but the content of PHB in the cell was much less than that in case of nitrogen controlled conditions. Obvious influences were observed on PHB fermentation when ammonia water feeding was stopped at different cell growth phases, and better results could be obtained when it was performed at 20 g/L to 30 g/L of residual biomass. Cell dry weight, PHB content and PHB concentration reached 61.9 g/L, 80.5% and 49.0 g/L, respectively under desired conditions.