Serous surface papillary borderline ovarian tumors: correlation of sonographic features with clinic pathological findings

Serous surface papillary borderline ovarian tumor (SSPBOT) is a distinct subtype of serous borderline ovarian tumor characterized by solid tissue deposition confined to the ovarian surface. Because SSPBOT is rare, there are few published reports on the ultrasonographic features of this condition. In this retrospective study, we investigated 12 cases of SSPBOT. Ultrasound imaging of SSPBOT showed grossly normal ovaries that were encased partially or wholly by tumor deposits that were confined to the surface, with clear demarcation between normal ovarian tissue and surrounding tumors. Color Doppler imaging demonstrated the 'fireworks sign' in all cases of SSPBOT, corresponding to an intratumoral vascular bundle originating from the ovarian vessels and supplying hierarchical branching blood flow to the surrounding tumor. No patient with ovarian high-grade serous carcinoma showed these morphological and Doppler features. In our series, the fireworks sign appeared to be a characteristic feature of SSPBOT that could facilitate correct identification of this tumor. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

GmMYB114 Facilitates the Synthesis of Anthocyanins in Soybean Sprouts under Blue Light

Soybean sprouts constitute a significant segment of the vegetable market due to their nutritional richness, particularly in various flavonoids, which contribute to numerous health benefits. The augmentation of the flavonoid content in soybean sprouts is pivotal for enhancing their economic value. While research has established the potential of blue light in promoting the synthesis of anthocyanins, a subclass of flavonoids known for their health advantages, the precise regulatory mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we identified a notable upregulation of an R2R3 type MYB transcription factor, GmMYB114, in response to blue light exposure, exhibiting a significant positive correlation with anthocyanin accumulation in soybean sprouts. The functional role of GmMYB114 was validated in soybean hairy roots, wherein its overexpression substantially augmented anthocyanin synthesis. Further investigations employing yeast one-hybrid (Y1H), dual-luciferase reporter (LUC), and GUS assays revealed that GmMYB114 indirectly influences anthocyanin synthesis as it does not directly bind to the promoters of anthocyanin synthesis genes to activate their expression. These findings contribute to elucidating the mechanism underlying blue light-mediated enhancement of anthocyanin synthesis in soybean sprouts, offering valuable insights for harnessing molecular technologies to obtain anthocyanin-enriched soybean sprouts.

CbMYB108 integrates the regulation of diterpene biosynthesis and trichome development in Conyza blinii against UV-B

Plants synthesize abundant terpenes through glandular trichomes (GTs), thereby protecting themselves from environmental stresses and increasing the economic value in some medicinal plants. However, the potential mechanisms for simultaneously regulating terpenes synthesis and GTs development remain unclear. Here, we showed that terpenes in Conyza blinii could be synthesized through capitate GTs. By treating with appropriate intensity of UV-B, the density of capitate GTs and diterpene content can be increased. Through analyzing corresponding transcriptome, we identified a MYB transcription factor CbMYB108 as a positive regulator of both diterpene synthesis and capitate GT density. Transiently overexpressing/silencing CbMYB108 on C. blinii leaves could increase diterpene synthesis and capitate GT density. Further verification showed that CbMYB108 upregulated CbDXS and CbGGPPS expression in diterpene synthesis pathway. Moreover, CbMYB108 could also upregulated the expression of CbTTG1, key WD40 protein confirmed in this study to promote GT development, rather than through interaction between CbMYB108 and CbTTG1 proteins. Thus, results showed that the UV-B-induced CbMYB108 owned dual-function of simultaneously improving diterpene synthesis and GT development. Our research lays a theoretical foundation for cultivating C. blinii with high terpene content, and broadens the understanding of the integrated mechanism on terpene synthesis and GT development in plants.

Diagnostic accuracy of bone SPECT and SPECT/CT imaging in the diagnosis of unilateral condylar hyperplasia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Imaging with bone scans plays an important role in the diagnostic path of patients with unilateral condylar hyperactivity or unilateral condylar hyperplasia (UCH). The aim of this study is to perform a systematic review of the diagnostic performance of the bone SPECT and SPECT/CT scan for the diagnosis of UCH. PubMed, SCOPUS and EMBASE were searched electronically to identify diagnostic accuracy studies that assessed the diagnostic value of bone SPECT and SPECT/CT for the diagnosis of UCH, Meta-analyses were performed with Metadisc 1.4 and 2.0. A total of 14 studies, with a total number of 887 patients, were included in the qualitative analysis and 11 studies qualified for meta-analyses. The pooled sensitivity and specificity for the SPECT scan were 0.814 (95 % CI: 0.639-0.915) and 0.774 (95 % CI: 0.655-0.861), for the SPECT/CT scan these were 0.818 (95 % CI: 0.749-0.874) and 0.901 (95 % CI: 0.840-0.945). The summary receiver operating characteristics of the SPECT scan showed an area under the curve of 0.847 (95 % CI: 0.722-0.972) and that of the SPECT/CT scan was 0.928 (95 % CI: 0.876-0.980). CONCLUSION: Both bone SPECT scan and SPECT/CT scan provide a high diagnostic accuracy for UCH. The added value of the SPECT/CT scan is questionable and given the potential disadvantages of the SPECT/CT scan, including the increased radiation dose and costs, the diagnostic modality of first choice in patients with UCH should be a SPECT scan.

Insights into the defensive roles of lncRNAs during Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection

Mycoplasma pneumoniae causes respiratory tract infections, affecting both children and adults, with varying degrees of severity ranging from mild to life-threatening. In recent years, a new class of regulatory RNAs called long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been discovered to play crucial roles in regulating gene expression in the host. Research on lncRNAs has greatly expanded our understanding of cellular functions involving RNAs, and it has significantly increased the range of functions of lncRNAs. In lung cancer, transcripts associated with lncRNAs have been identified as regulators of airway and lung inflammation in a process involving protein complexes. An excessive immune response and antibacterial immunity are closely linked to the pathogenesis of M. pneumoniae. The relationship between lncRNAs and M. pneumoniae infection largely involves lncRNAs that participate in antibacterial immunity. This comprehensive review aimed to examine the dysregulation of lncRNAs during M. pneumoniae infection, highlighting the latest advancements in our understanding of the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs in the context of M. pneumoniae infection and indicating avenues for investigating lncRNAs-related therapeutic targets.

Swallowing performance in older adults: Associated cognitive, neuroanatomical and demographic factors

BACKGROUND

Swallowing problems are frequently seen in older adults, especially in individuals with cognitive impairment (CI). The brain plays a crucial role in both cognition and swallowing. Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, researchers identified regions associated with swallowing. However, it is not yet fully elucidated which factors influence the swallowing performance in older adults.

OBJECTIVES

The current study investigated which factors, such as cognitive function, neuroanatomical factors (e.g., the cortical thickness and volume of specific brain regions) and demographical factors are associated with swallowing performance in older adults. Secondly, it was investigated whether there is a difference in neuroanatomical factors between individuals with and without CI.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In total, 15 CI individuals (73.1 ± 9.1 years; 46.7% male) and 48 non-CI controls (69.0 ± 5.1 years; 29.2% male) were included. The repetitive saliva swallowing test (RSST) was performed, and an MRI scan was acquired from the participants.

RESULTS

Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that the cortical thickness of the right supramarginal gyrus and female gender were positively associated, and a higher age was negatively associated with the RSST in older adults (p < .05). CI was not significantly associated with swallowing performance. Furthermore, it was found that the cortical volume differs more frequently between CI and non-CI than the cortical thickness.

CONCLUSION

A thinner cortex of the right supramarginal gyrus and being an older female are associated with poorer swallowing performance. Secondly, cortical volume was more often found to differ between CI and non-CI individuals than cortical thickness.

Predictors of patients' satisfaction after temporomandibular disorder treatment in a referral clinic

BACKGROUND

Evaluating patients' satisfaction after received care for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) pain provides oral health care professionals with knowledge and tools to improve their clinical procedures. However, knowledge on patient characteristics that determine satisfaction with the received care for TMD pain is lacking.

OBJECTIVE

To identify potential baseline predictors for patients' satisfaction regarding the management of TMD pain upon treatment completion in a referral clinic.

METHODS

Eligible patients, viz., individuals of ≥16 years of age, with a TMD-pain diagnosis according the diagnostic criteria for TMD (DC/TMD), and who were treated in a referral clinic, were included. As part of their standard care, a set of diagnostic questionnaires was filled in (e.g. TMD-pain screener, graded chronic pain scale (GCPS), etc.). After completion of the received care, patients filled in a custom-made questionnaire based on patient reported experience measures (PREMs) to quantify their satisfaction with their treatment results and received care. To identify potential predictors associated with patients' satisfaction, univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients (mean 39.6, SD 15.0) were included in this study. Overall, the patients were satisfied with the treatment results and the received care. Depressive feelings were negatively associated with satisfaction of treatment results (p = .01) and positively associated with satisfaction of received care (p = .01), while pain intensity was negatively associated with satisfaction of the received care.

CONCLUSION

Depressive feelings are a significant negative predictor of patients' satisfaction with the treatment result for TMD pain, while average pain intensity is a significant negative predictor of patients' satisfaction with the received care.

Role and molecular mechanism of APOBEC3B in the development and progression of gastric cancer

Gastric cancer is a common malignant tumor with a high mortality rate. Abnormal APOBEC3B (apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide-like 3B) expression increases tumor susceptibility. However, the exact molecular mechanism of APOBEC3B expression in the development of gastric cancer is still unknown. We investigated the effect of APOBEC3B on the malignant biological behavior of gastric cancer cells and discussed the role of APOBEC3B in the development and progression of gastric cancer. APOBEC3B protein levels were measured in 161 gastric cancer samples using western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Both in vitro and in vivo assays were performed, and molecules were analyzed using bioinformatics analysis and western blotting. APOBEC3B was overexpressed in gastric cancer. Moreover, APOBEC3B significantly enhanced cell proliferation in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. Regarding the underlying mechanism, APOBEC3B promoted the proliferation of gastric cancer cells by upregulating P53, MCM2 (minichromosome maintenance protein 2), and cyclin D1. Our results suggest that APOBEC3B is involved in cancer progression, providing a new theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of gastric cancer.

Sugar Signals and R2R3-MYBs Participate in Potassium-Repressed Anthocyanin Accumulation in Radish

Anthocyanin biosynthesis in plants is influenced by a wide range of environmental factors, such as light, temperature and nutrient availability. In this study, we revealed that the potassium-repressed anthocyanin accumulation in radish hypocotyls was associated with altered sugar distribution and sugar signaling pathways rather than changes in oxidative stress status. Sugar-feeding experiments suggested a hexokinase-independent glucose signal acted as a major contributor in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis, transport and regulatory genes at the transcriptional level. Several R2R3-MYBs were identified as anthocyanin-related MYBs. Phylogenetic and protein sequence analyses suggested that RsMYB75 met the criteria of subgroup 6 MYB activator, while RsMYB39 and RsMYB82 seemed to be a non-canonical MYB anthocyanin activator and repressor, respectively. Through yeast-one-hybrid, dual-luciferase and transient expression assays, we confirmed that RsMYB39 strongly induced the promoter activity of anthocyanin transport-related gene RsGSTF12, while RsMYB82 significantly reduced anthocyanin biosynthesis gene RsANS1 expression. Molecular models are proposed in the discussion, allowing speculation on how these novel RsMYBs may regulate the expression levels of anthocyanin-related structural genes. Together, our data evidenced the strong impacts of potassium on sugar metabolism and signaling and its regulation of anthocyanin accumulation through different sugar signals and R2R3-MYBs in a hierarchical regulatory system.

Assessment and comparison of nutritional qualities of thirty quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) seed varieties

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is an ancient crop with perfect nutritional composition and antioxidants substances. However, the current research on the nutritional quality of quinoa is limited to a small number of varieties or a single origin. In this study, we aimed at providing a detailed evaluation of abundant nutrients of quinoa seeds from thirty varieties with different color in different origins, including soluble protein, soluble sugar, amino acid, vitamin, fatty acid and saponin. Results showed that there were significant differences in the contents of γ-aminobutyric acid (6.67-78.67 mg/100 g DW) and vitamin C (11.675-105.135 mg/100 g DW) in quinoa seeds. Here, we scored thirty quinoa seeds using a weighted average score system first time and identified four varieties, black quinoa JQ-00145, red quinoa JQ-00125 and two white quinoa JQ-00005/JQ-00077, with superior nutritional quality and oxidation resistance. The results of this study will provide theoretical guidance for consumption of quinoa.

Efficacy and Safety of Multifraction Stereotactic Radiation Therapy with Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy Technique for Multiple Brain Metastases

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Multifraction stereotactic radiotherapy (MF-SRT) with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is the standard treatment option for patients with multiple brain metastases. VMAT has superior physical accessibility and economic accessibility compared with advanced radiotherapy technologies such as Tomo or Proton radiotherapy. However, existing studies has mainly focused on comparing the dosimetric parameters between distinct radiotherapy techniques. Moreover, single fraction stereotactic radiosurgery is preferentially recommended for treatment of brain metastases with maximum diameter <2cm compared with MF-SRT. There is a lack of clinical results of its efficacy and subgroup analyses according to diameter. Thus, we first report the detailed analysis of clinical results of SRT using VMAT for brain metastases.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This study is a retrospective analysis of SRT for multiple brain metastasis using VMAT. The clinical efficacy of VMAT was evaluated by local control (LC) in 6-months, 1-year, and 2-year.

RESULTS

A total of 63 patients with 214 brain metastases were enrolled. The most common fractionation schemes were 40 Gy/8F and 48 Gy/12F. In all, LC rates at 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year were 95.5%, 90.6%, and 76.8%, respectively. Using univariate and multivariate analyses according to stratification factors including maximum diameter, GTV volume, dose per fraction, fractions, inner structure, and BED (α/β = 10), we found that no factors were associated with 6-month LC, 1-year LC, and 2-year LC. 1-year LC rates for maximum diameter ≥1 and <2, ≥2 and <3, and ≥3 cm were 89.2%, 90.7%, and 95.7%, respectively. The 1-year LC rates for tumors with GTV <3, ≥3 and <5, ≥5 and <10, and ≥10 cc were 87.0%, 91.7%, 94.7%, and 96.6%, respectively. Interestingly, 1year-LC in GTV ≥3 cc tends to higher than those in GTV <3 cc, but there was no significant difference (94.4% vs 87%, P = 0.162). Brain radionecrosis (RN) was the most significant toxicity occurring in 10 (4.7%) out of the 214 treated brain metastases. Among 6 patients with RN, 4 (66.7%) had been treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

CONCLUSION

The use of MF-SRT with VMAT for multiple brain metastases showed a comparable clinical efficacy to other techniques described in the literature. And the LC rate for maximum diameter <2cm treated with MF-SRT VMAT was comparable to single fraction stereotactic radiosurgery as previously reported. The treatment-related toxicity was acceptable.

Multi-omics analysis provides insights intro lysine accumulation in quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) sprouts

Lysine, the first limiting essential amino acid, the deficiency of which seriously affects the health of human and animals. In this study, quinoa germination significantly increased the nutrients, especially lysine content. To better understanding the underlying molecular mechanism of lysine biosynthesis, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based proteomics, RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) technology and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) platform-based phytohormones analyses were conducted. Through proteome analyses, a total of 11,406 differentially expressed proteins were identified, which were mainly related to secondary metabolites. The lysine-rich storage globulins and endogenous phytohormones probably contributed the increased lysine content in quinoa during germination. Furthermore, aspartic acid semialdehyde dehydrogenase is essential for lysine synthesis in addition to aspartate kinase and dihydropyridine dicarboxylic acid synthase. Protein-protein interaction analysis indicated lysine biosynthesis is associated with "amino metabolism" and "starch and sucrose metabolism". Above all, our study screens the candidate genes participated in lysine accumulation and explores the factors affected lysine biosynthesis by multi-omics analysis. These information not only paves a foundation for breeding lysine-rich quinoa sprouts but also provides valuable multi-omics resource to explore the characteristic of nutrients during quinoa germination.

Blue Light Enhances Health-Promoting Sulforaphane Accumulation in Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) Sprouts through Inhibiting Salicylic Acid Synthesis

As a vegetable with high nutritional value, broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is rich in vitamins, antioxidants and anti-cancer compounds. Glucosinolates (GLs) are one of the important functional components widely found in cruciferous vegetables, and their hydrolysate sulforaphane (SFN) plays a key function in the anti-cancer process. Herein, we revealed that blue light significantly induced the SFN content in broccoli sprouts, and salicylic acid (SA) was involved in this process. We investigated the molecular mechanisms of SFN accumulation with blue light treatment in broccoli sprouts and the relationship between SFN and SA. The results showed that the SFN accumulation in broccoli sprouts was significantly increased under blue light illumination, and the expression of SFN synthesis-related genes was particularly up-regulated by SA under blue light. Moreover, blue light considerably decreased the SA content compared with white light, and this decrease was more suppressed by paclobutrazol (Pac, an inhibitor of SA synthesis). In addition, the transcript level of SFN synthesis-related genes and the activity of myrosinase (MYR) paralleled the trend of SFN accumulation under blue light treatment. Overall, we concluded that SA participates in the SFN accumulation in broccoli sprouts under blue light.

Cardiovascular capacity in adults with obstructive sleep apnoea

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) patients have a decreased exercise capacity. Potential cardiovascular capacity in patients with OSA with different severity without known cardiovascular disease has not been described.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate impaired potential exercise cardiovascular capacity during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) in OSA patients and to compare cardiovascular performance reaction with different severity during graded exercise stages.DESIGN: All participants were accompanied without cardiovascular disease, especially hypertension and arrhythmia. Parameters of different stages were compared between subjects with and without OSA, and among OSA patients with varied severity.RESULTS: Despite having significantly higher peak exercise diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and ventilatory equivalent for CO2 (EQCO₂), patients with OSA had a lower peak oxygen uptake (VO₂), heart rate (HR), heart rate recovery (HRR) and respiratory reserve (BR) than normal subjects. Furthermore, significant correlations were found between VO₂, DBP, EQCO₂, HRR, BR and the apnoea-hypopnea index. In severe OSA, there was a greater difference in HR and HRR during the anaerobic threshold stages.CONCLUSIONS: OSA patients demonstrate reduced potential cardiovascular capacity, even without documented cardiovascular disease. Patients with severe OSA develop impaired exercise capacity at early stage during exercise. These data point to exaggerated haemodynamic response to graded exercise and delayed post-exercise cardiovascular response recovery in OSA patients. CPET can be a supplement for assessment of OSA severity.

[Clinical study of using basement membrane biological products in pelvic floor reconstruction during pelvic exenteration]

Objective: To investigate the value of reconstruction of pelvic floor with biological products to prevent and treat empty pelvic syndrome after pelvic exenteration (PE) for locally advanced or recurrent rectal cancer. Methods: This was a descriptive study of data of 56 patients with locally advanced or locally recurrent rectal cancer without or with limited extra-pelvic metastases who had undergone PE and pelvic floor reconstruction using basement membrane biologic products to separate the abdominal and pelvic cavities in the Department of Anorectal Surgery of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Naval Military Medical University from November 2021 to May 2022. The extent of surgery was divided into two categories: mainly inside the pelvis (41 patients) and including pelvic wall resection (15 patients). In all procedures, basement membrane biologic products were used to reconstruct the pelvic floor and separate the abdominal and pelvic cavities. The procedures included a transperitoneal approach, in which biologic products were used to cover the retroperitoneal defect and the pelvic entrance from the Treitz ligament to the sacral promontory and sutured to the lateral peritoneum, the peritoneal margin of the retained organs in the anterior pelvis, or the pubic arch and pubic symphysis; and a sacrococcygeal approach in which biologic products were used to reconstruct the defect in the pelvic muscle-sacral plane. Variables assessed included patients' baseline information (including sex, age, history of preoperative radiotherapy, recurrence or primary, and extra-pelvic metastases), surgery-related variables (including extent of organ resection, operative time, intraoperative bleeding, and tissue restoration), post-operative recovery (time to recovery of bowel function and time to recovery from empty pelvic syndrome), complications, and findings on follow-up. Postoperative complications were graded using the Clavien-Dindo classification. Results: The median age of the 41 patients whose surgery was mainly inside the pelvis was 57 (31-82) years. The patients comprised 25 men and 16 women. Of these 41 patients, 23 had locally advanced disease and 18 had locally recurrent disease; 32 had a history of chemotherapy/immunotherapy/targeted therapy and 24 of radiation therapy. Among these patients, the median operative time, median intraoperative bleeding, median time to recovery of bowel function, and median time to resolution of empty pelvic syndrome were 440 (240-1020) minutes, 650 (200-4000) ml, 3 (1-9) days, and 14 (5-105) days, respectively. As for postoperative complications, 37 patients had Clavien-Dindo < grade III and four had ≥ grade III complications. One patient died of multiple organ failure 7 days after surgery, two underwent second surgeries because of massive bleeding from their pelvic floor wounds, and one was successfully resuscitated from respiratory failure. In contrast, the median age of the 15 patients whose procedure included combined pelvic and pelvic wall resection was 61 (43-76) years, they comprised eight men and seven women, four had locally advanced disease and 11 had locally recurrent disease. All had a history of chemotherapy/ immunotherapy and 13 had a history of radiation therapy. The median operative time, median intraoperative bleeding, median time to recovery of bowel function, and median time to relief of empty pelvic syndrome were 600 (360-960) minutes, 1600 (400-4000) ml, 3 (2-7) days, and 68 (7-120) days, respectively, in this subgroup of patients. Twelve of these patients had Clavien-Dindo < grade III and three had ≥ grade III postoperative complications. Follow-up was until 31 October 2022 or death; the median follow-up time was 9 (5-12) months. One patient in this group died 3 months after surgery because of rapid tumor progression. The remaining 54 patients have survived to date and no local recurrences have been detected at the surgical site. Conclusion: The use of basement membrane biologic products for pelvic floor reconstruction and separation of the abdominal and pelvic cavities during PE for locally advanced or recurrent rectal cancer is safe, effective, and feasible. It improves the perioperative safety of PE and warrants more implementation.

Selenium treatment promotes anthocyanin accumulation in radish sprouts (Raphanus sativus L.) by its regulation of photosynthesis and sucrose transport

Red radish sprout become a popular dietary vegetable because of its unique flavor, abundant nutrients and short production cycle. As a cruciferous plant, it has strong ability to absorb and assimilate Se which can promote the content of anthocyanin in plants. However, the mechanisms of Se on anthocyanin accumulation are still unclear. In this study, we explored that appropriate Se promoted growth, antioxidant system and nutrients in radish sprouts. The enhancement of photosynthesis by Se treatment resulted in more sucrose synthesis in radish sprouts. And the transport of sucrose from cotyledon to hypocotyl promoted by Se through up-regulating the gene expression of sucrose transporters, and more sucrose increased the expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes to promote anthocyanin accumulation in hypocotyl. These results reveal the beneficial effect of Se on radish sprouts quality, and provide a new insight into the function of Se on sucrose-induced anthocyanin accumulation in radish sprouts.

VrMYB90 Functions Synergistically with VrbHLHA and VrMYB3 to Regulate Anthocyanin Biosynthesis in Mung Bean

Mung bean is an important grain-legume crop and its sprout is an economical and nutrient vegetable for the public, but the genetic regulation of anthocyanin production, which is an antioxidant in mung bean, remains elusive. In our study, we characterized a subgroup (SG) 6 R2R3-MYB anthocyanin activator VrMYB90 and a SG 4 R2R3-MYB anthocyanin repressor VrMYB3, which synergistically function in regulating anthocyanin synthesis with VrbHLHA transcription factor. The overexpressed VrMYB90 protein activates the expression of VrMYB3 and VrbHLHA in mung bean hair roots, and also promotes VrDFR and VrANS transcript levels by directly binding to the corresponding promoters at specific motifs (CAACTG and CCGTTG). VrMYB90 interacts with VrbHLHA to enhance its regulatory activities on VrDFR and VrANS. Furthermore, the interaction between VrMYB3 with VrMYB90 and VrbHLHA could result in the restriction of anthocyanin synthesis to prevent excessive anthocyanin accumulation. Our results demonstrate that the VrMYB90 protein, in conjunction with VrMYB3 and VrbHLHA, forms a key regulatory module to fine-tune anthocyanin synthesis in mung bean.

RsGSTF12 Contributes to Anthocyanin Sequestration in Radish (Raphanus sativus L.)

Anthocyanins are water-soluble plant pigments mainly stored in the plant vacuoles. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are a multifunctional enzyme family, which can regulate substance metabolism and biological and abiotic stresses in plants. However, few reports were focused on the involvement of GSTs in anthocyanin sequestration in red skin radish. Here, we identified a glutathione S-transferase gene RsGSTF12 that played roles in anthocyanin sequestration in radish. The bioinformatics analysis revealed that RsGSTF12 belonged to the phi (F) class of glutathione S-transferases and showed a high homology with AtGSTF12, followed by AtGSTF11. The subcellular localization assay showed that RsGSTF12 was located in the endoplasmic reticulum and tonoplast. Temporal and spatial gene expression-specific analyses uncovered a strong correlation of RsGSTF12 with anthocyanin accumulation in radish sprouts. The anthocyanin solubility assay found RsGSTF12 was capable of improving cyanidin water solubility in vitro. Transiently expressing RsGSTF12 in radish cotyledons was able to increase their anthocyanin sequestrations. Furthermore, the functional complementation and overexpression of the Arabidopsis thaliana tt19 mutant and wild type demonstrated that RsGSTF12 might play an indispensable role in anthocyanin accumulation in radish. Taken together, we provide compelling evidence that RsGSTF12 functions critically in how anthocyanins are sequestrated in radish, which may enrich our understanding of the mechanism of anthocyanin sequestration.

Maresin 1 intervention Reverses Experimental Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in mice

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a pulmonary vasculature obstructive disease that leads to right heart failure and death. Maresin 1 is an endogenous lipid mediator known to promote inflammation resolution. However, the effect of Maresin 1 on PAH remains unclear.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

The serum Maresin 1 concentration was assessed using UPLC. A mouse model of PAH was established by combining the Sugen 5416 injection and hypoxia exposure (SuHx). After treatment with Maresin 1, the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and right ventricular function were measured by hemodynamic measurement and echocardiography, respectively. Vascular remodeling was evaluated by histological staining. Confocal and western blot were used to test related protein expression. In vitro, cell migration, proliferation and apoptosis assays were performed in primary rat pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Western blotting and siRNA transfection were used to clarify the mechanism of Maresin 1.

KEY RESULTS

Endogenous serum Maresin 1 was decreased in PAH patients and mice. Maresin 1 treatment decreased RVSP and attenuated the right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in murine PAH model. Maresin 1 reversed abnormal changes in pulmonary vascular remodeling, attenuating endothelial to mesenchymal transformation (EndoMT) and enhancing apoptosis of α-SMA positive cells. Furthermore, Maresin 1 inhibited PASMC proliferation and promoted apoptosis by inhibiting STAT, AKT, ERK and FoxO1 phosphorylation via LGR6.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Maresin 1 improved abnormal pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular dysfunction in PAH mice, targeting aberrant PASMC proliferation. This suggests Maresin 1 may have a potent therapeutic effect in vascular disease.

Improving the anthocyanin accumulation of hypocotyls in radish sprouts by hemin-induced NO

BACKGROUND

The health benefits of anthocyanins impel researchers and food producers to explorer new methods to increase anthocyanin contents in plant foods. Our previous studies revealed a positive role of nitric oxide (NO) in anthocyanin accumulation in radish (Raphanus sativus L.) sprouts. The application of hemin, an inducer of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), can effectively elevate NO production in vivo. Hemin treatment also improves plant growth and stress tolerance. This study is aimed to assess the effects of hemin treatment on anthocyanin production in radish sprouts, and to investigate whether NO signalling is involved in this process.

RESULTS

The application of hemin significantly up regulated the expressions of many anthocyanins biosynthesis related structure and regulatory genes, leading to increased anthocyanins accumulation in radish hypocotyls. Hemin treatment also raised NO contents in radish sprouts, probably through enhancing nitrate reductase (NR) activity and Nitric Oxide-Associated 1 (NOA1) expression. Comparing the effects of Zinc Protoporphyrin (ZnPP, HO-1 activity inhibitor), Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP, NO donor) and carboxy-PTIO (cPTIO, NO-scavenger) on anthocyanin and NO production, a positive role of NO signalling has been revealed in hemin-derived anthocyanin accumulation. A positive feedback loop between HO-1 and NO may be involved in regulating this process.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemin induced anthocyanin accumulation in radish sprouts through HO-1 and NO signalling network.

Salicylic Acid Regulates Indole-3-Carbinol Biosynthesis Under Blue Light in Broccoli Sprouts (Brassica oleracea L.)

Indole-3-carbinol (I3C), an important secondary metabolite with strong anti-cancer ability, is widely found in cruciferous plants. Light and phytohormones are one of the most important external and internal signals, respectively, that control the growth, development, and secondary metabolism of the plant life cycle. However, there are few studies about the influence of the blue light and salicylic acid (SA) on the regulation of I3C accumulation. In this study, a negative correlation was found between the content of I3C and SA in different species. Among this, broccoli and Arabidopsis thaliana were chosen for further studies. We observed that blue light treatment increased the accumulation of I3C, and exogenous SA treatment significantly inhibited the accumulation of I3C in broccoli sprouts. Based on the RNA sequence, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis indicated that blue light promoted the enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in plant hormone signal transduction pathways. More specifically, downregulated expression of genes related to SA biosynthesis and upregulated expression of I3C genes related to metabolic pathway were observed under blue light. Taken together, these results suggested that SA negatively regulates blue light-induced I3C accumulation in broccoli sprouts.

Application Value of Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing for Bloodstream Infections in Pediatric Patients Under Intensive Care

Purpose

This study aimed to analyze the application value of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) as a basis for the proper adjustment of the clinical treatment of bloodstream infections (BSIs) in pediatric patients under intensive care.

Methods

We retrospectively enrolled 46 pediatric patients with clinically diagnosed BSIs who were hospitalized in the pediatric intensive care unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from June 2018 to July 2021. Blood samples were collected for cultivation and for mNGS detection of pathogens.

Results

Among the 46 children, the average turnaround time for blood culture tests was 3.2 days, and the results revealed pathogens in three children (6.5%). The average turnaround time for mNGS was 2.2 days, and pathogens were found in 30 children (65.2%). The difference in positivity rates between blood culture and mNGS was significant (p<0.05). Blood culture tests found three pathogens, while mNGS identified 28 pathogens, indicating that mNGS detected significantly more types of pathogens than the traditional diagnostic method for pathogenic microorganisms. In some children, more than one pathogen was detected.

Conclusion

mNGS can help identify pathogenic microorganisms associated with BSI in some pediatric patients under intensive care.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR USE AND SCORING OF ORAL HEALTH IMPACT PROFILE VERSIONS

BACKGROUND

OHIP's original seven-domain structure does not fit empirical data, but a psychometrically sound and clinically more plausible structure with the four OHRQoL dimensions Oral Function, Orofacial Pain, Orofacial Appearance, and Psychosocial Impact has emerged. Consequently, use and scoring of available OHIP versions need to be revisited.

AIM

We assessed how well the overall construct OHRQoL and its four dimensions were measured with several OHIP versions (20, 19, 14, and 5 items) to derive recommendations which instruments should be used and how to score them.

METHODS

Data came from the "Dimensions of OHRQoL Project" and used the project's learning sample (5,173 prosthodontic patients and general population subjects with 49-item OHIP data). We computed correlations among OHIP versions' summary scores. Correlations between OHRQoL dimensions, on one hand, and OHIP versions' domain scores or OHIP-5's items, on the other hand, were also computed. OHIP use and scoring recommendations were derived for psychometrically solid but also practical OHRQoL assessment.

RESULTS

Summary scores of 5-, 14-, 19- and 49-item versions correlated highly (r = 0.91-0.98), suggesting similar OHRQoL construct measurement across versions. The OHRQoL dimensions Oral Function, Orofacial Pain, Orofacial Appearance, and Psychosocial Impact were best measured by the OHIP domain scores for Physical Disability, Physical Pain, Psychological Discomfort, and Handicap, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Recommendations were derived which OHIP should be preferably used and how OHIP versions should be scored to capture the overall construct and the dimensions of OHRQoL. Psychometrically solid and practical OHRQoL assessment in all settings across all oral health conditions can be achieved with the 5-item OHIP.

Mechanisms of calcium sulfate in alleviating cadmium toxicity and accumulation in pak choi seedlings

Gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO₄ ·2H₂O) is commonly applied to improve soil quality and nutrient supply. Previous studies also suggested it is a cost-effective soil amendment in alleviating cadmium (Cd) toxicity and accumulation in plants. The aim of this study was to investigate how this is achieved. We used pak choi as our research material because it is a popular vegetable in Asia, and as a leafy vegetable, it accumulates higher Cd level than other types of vegetable. Under Cd stress, application of CaSO₄ promoted pak choi seedling growth, decreased the oxidative stress in roots, reduced Cd accumulation, and enhanced the photosynthesis in shoots. We revealed the inhibition of Cd²⁺ absorption by CaSO₄ is largely due to the competition between Ca²⁺ and Cd²⁺ for ion channels or transporter. Moreover, under Cd stress, CaSO₄ facilitated the sulphate assimilation, increased the biosynthesis of phytochelatins, and activated the expression of transporters for vacuolar sequestration. Together, CaSO₄ could benefit plant growth and enhance Cd tolerance by suppressing Cd root uptake and lowering the Cd content in cytoplasm.

Alveolar bone loss and tooth loss are associated with COVID-19 severity but are not independent risk factors. An explorative study

Purpose

This study explores the association between alveolar bone loss, tooth loss and severity of COVID-19.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we included patients with confirmed COVID-19 who have had a dental panoramic radiograph within a maximum period of 5 years, providing information about alveolar bone loss and tooth loss. The severity of COVID-19 was determined based on the WHO clinical progression scale: (1) Mild/Ambulatory; (2) Moderate/Hospitalized; (3) Severe/Intensive care unit (ICU) or death.

Results

1730 patients were identified with COVID-19 from until October 31, 2020 in the Isala Hospital. Of these patients, 389 ever visited the OMFS department. 133 patients have had an orthopantomograph within a maximum period of 5 years and were included for analysis. The results showed a significant association between alveolar bone loss and COVID-19 severity (p = 0.028). Patients with alveolar bone loss had 5.6 times higher odds to be admitted to ICU or died, compared to ambulatory patients (OR: 5.60; 95%CI: 1.21; 25.99; P = 0.028). More tooth loss was significantly associated with COVID-19 severity (p = 0.047). Per tooth lost, patients had 4.2% higher odds for severe than mild COVID-19 (OR: 1.04; 95%CI: 1.00; 1.09; P = 0.047) and 6.0% higher odds for severe than moderate COVID-19 (OR: 1.06; 95%CI: 1.01; 1.11; P = 0.017). When adjusting for confounders in multivariate analyses, the significant associations of COVID-19 with alveolar bone loss and tooth loss were no longer present.

Conclusion

In this retrospective explorative pilot study, alveolar bone loss and tooth loss are associated with the severity of COVID-19, however they are not independent risk factors. The current study could contribute to the design of further studies on the relationship between oral health and COVID-19.

Plasma membrane-localized protein BcHIPP16 promotes the uptake of copper and cadmium in planta

Cadmium (Cd) is one of the toxic heavy metals in soil, which not only suppresses crop production but also threatens human health. In this study, we aim to clarify the biological function of Cd-related gene BcHIPP16, so as to provide potential genetic solutions to decrease the Cd levels of pak choi. Tissue expression analysis showed that BcHIPP16 expressed in almost all the plant bodies. The transcriptional level of BcHIPP16 in roots was higher than that in shoots, which was significantly induced by copper (Cu) deficiency and Cd exposure conditions. Subcellular localization revealed that BcHIPP16 localized in plasma membrane. Expressing BcHIPP16 in yeast cells improved the sensitivity to Cu and Cd and improved their accumulation in yeast. Furthermore, the Cu and Cd content of Arabidopsis seedlings were increased and complemented, respectively when expressing BcHIPP16 in wild type (WT) and hip16 mutants. Non-invasive Micro-test Technology (NMT) was used to measure the real-time Cd²⁺ influx from the root surface of BcHIPP16 transgenic Arabidopsis lines, and the result demonstrated that BcHIPP16 promoted Cd²⁺ influx into Arabidopsis root cells. Taken together, our study showed that BcHIPP16 contributed to absorbing nutrient metal Cu and heavy metal Cd in planta.

[Clinical and genetic analysis of pulmonary embolism induced by a novel gene mutation of the antithrombin Ⅲ gene]

Objective: To improve the clinical management of acute pulmonary embolism caused by antithrombin Ⅲ (AT Ⅲ) deficiency through gene sequence analysis of the SERPINC1 gene. Methods: The diagnosis and treatment of a 33-year-old male patient with chest pain was reviewed. All exon sequences and flanking regions of 7 related genes of thrombophilia were subjected to detection by high-throughput next generation sequencing technology. The gene mutation was inquired in the gene database and the pathogenic probability of the mutant gene was predicted by Mutation Taster software. Results: The patient was diagnosed with acute pulmonary embolism (intermediate-low risk), with the ATⅢ activity less than 50%. Anticoagulation with nadroparin calcium combined with warfarin was administrated, but hemoptysis was aggravated, and then the medication was replaced by anticoagulant of rivaroxaban. In the end, the embolus was gradually absorbed. A heterozygous missense mutation of c.1148T>A (p.L383H) in the SERPINC1 gene was detected. The gene database and Mutation Taster confirmed the mutation as a new pathogenic mutation with the pathogenic probability of 0.999 999 851 200 991. Conclusions: C.1148T>A (p.L383H) is a novel pathogenic mutation in SERPINC1 gene that complements and updates the gene mutation spectrum of hereditary AT Ⅲ deficiency. The new oral anticoagulant rivaroxaban may be used as the first-line treatment for these patients.

External validation of a rapid, non-invasive tool for periodontitis screening in a medical care setting

OBJECTIVES

Medical professionals should advise their patients to visit a dentist if necessary. Due to the lack of time and knowledge, screening for periodontitis is often not done. To alleviate this problem, a screening model for total (own teeth/gum health, gum treatment, loose teeth, mouthwash use, and age)/severe periodontitis (gum treatment, loose teeth, tooth appearance, mouthwash use, age, and sex) in a medical care setting was developed in the Academic Center of Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA) [1]. The purpose of the present study was to externally validate this tool in an outpatient medical setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients were requited in an outpatient medical setting as the validation cohort. The self-reported oral health questionnaire was conducted, demographic data were collected, and periodontal examination was performed. Algorithm discrimination was expressed as the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated. Calibration plots were made.

RESULTS

For predicting total periodontitis, the AUROCC was 0.59 with a sensitivity of 49% and specificity of 68%. The PPV was 57% and the NPV scored 55%. For predicting severe periodontitis, the AUROCC was 0.73 with a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 63%. The PPV was 39% and the NPV 87%.

CONCLUSIONS

The performance of the algorithm for severe periodontitis is found to be sufficient in the current medical study population. Further external validation of periodontitis algorithms in non-dental school populations is recommended.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Because general physicians are obligated to screen patients for periodontitis, it is our general goal that they can use a prediction model in medical settings without an oral examination.

BcNRAMP1 promotes the absorption of cadmium and manganese in Arabidopsis

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic nonessential metal that poses a health risk for humans. Cd is easily accumulated in leaf vegetables than in other vegetables. Leafy vegetables are one of the major dietary Cd sources for the human body. In this study, pak choi was used as our experimental material as it is an important leafy vegetable, especially in Asia. A NRAMP transporter - BcNRAMP1 was identified in pak choi, which is involved in manganese (Mn) and Cd uptake in yeast and in planta. BcNRAMP1 is expressed in the whole plant body of pak choi, with a higher abundance in root tissues than in shoots. Mn deficiency and Cd exposure strongly induced BcNRAMP1 transcription levels. Through transient expression of BcNRAMP1-GFP fusion protein in tobacco leaf epidermal cells, BcNRAMP1 was revealed as a plasma membrane protein. Expressing BcNRAMP1 in yeast enhanced yeast cells to absorb Mn, Cd, and iron (Fe). Overexpression of BcNRAMP1 in Arabidopsis wild-type and nramp1 mutant increased and complemented Mn and Cd transportation and accumulation, respectively. Using noninvasive microelectrode ion flux measurements, a direct evidence that BcNRAMP1 acts on Cd influx in Arabidopsis root cells was provided. The results of this study reveal that BcNRAMP1 functions as a NRAMP protein in planta, absorbing nutrient metal Mn and the toxic metal Cd.

Transcriptome Analysis Reveals the Molecular Mechanism of GABA Accumulation during Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Germination

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) with a history of 5000 years as food is extremely rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds, including γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural four-carbon non-protein amino acid with great benefits to human health. In quinoa, GABA generally increases with the germination time, but the underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. Here, we found that the GABA content in quinoa varied significantly among 25 varieties using an automatic amino acid analyzer. Next, six varieties (three low-GABA and three high-GABA varieties) were used for further analyses. The content of GABA in six varieties all showed an increasing trend after germination. In addition, Pearson's correlation analysis showed that the changes in GABA content were closely related to the transcript level or enzyme activity of three key enzymes including glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), GABA transaminase (GABA-T), and succinate-semialdehyde dehydrogenase (SSADH) in the GABA shunt, especially GAD. Based on RNA-sequencing analysis, eight GAD genes, two GABA-T genes, one SSADH gene, nine polyamine oxidase (PAO) genes, five diamine oxidase (DAO) genes, four 4-aminobutyraldehyde dehydrogenase (BADH) genes, and three thermospermine synthase ACAULIS5 (ACL5) genes were identified. Among these, CqGAD8 and CqGABA-T2 may make a greater contribution to GABA accumulation during quinoa germination.

Association between the degree of obstructive sleep apnea and the severity of COVID-19: An explorative retrospective cross-sectional study

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on its own, as well as its risk factors, have been found to be associated with the outcome of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, the association between the degree of OSA and COVID-19 severity is unclear. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate whether or not parameters to clinically evaluate OSA severity and the type of OSA treatment are associated with COVID-19 severity. Patient data from OSA patients diagnosed with COVID-19 were reviewed from outpatients from the Isala Hospital and patients admitted to the Isala Hospital, starting from March until December 2020. Baseline patient data, sleep study parameters, OSA treatment information and hospital admission data were collected. Apnea hypopnea index (AHI), low oxyhemoglobin desaturation (LSAT), oxygen desaturation index (ODI), respiratory disturbance index (RDI), and the type of OSA treatment were regarded as the independent variables. COVID-19 severity-based on hospital or intensive care unit (ICU) admission, the number of days of hospitalization, and number of intubation and mechanical ventilation days-were regarded as the outcome variables. Multinomial regression analysis, binary logistic regression analysis, and zero-inflated negative binomial regression analysis were used to assess the association between the parameters to clinically evaluate OSA severity and COVID-19 severity. A total of 137 patients were included. Only LSAT was found to be significantly associated with the COVID-19 severity (p<0.05) when COVID-19 severity was dichotomized as non-hospitalized or hospitalized and ICU admission or death. Therefore, our findings showed that LSAT seems to be a significant risk factor for COVID-19 severity. However, the degree of OSA-based on AHI, ODI, and RDI-and OSA treatment were not found to be risk factors for COVID-19 severity when looking at hospital or ICU admission, the number of days of hospitalization, and number of intubation and mechanical ventilation days.

Calcium Positively Mediates Blue Light-Induced Anthocyanin Accumulation in Hypocotyl of Soybean Sprouts

Soybean sprouts are a flavorful microgreen that can be eaten all year round and are widely favored in Southeast Asia. In this study, the regulatory mechanism of calcium on anthocyanin biosynthesis in soybean sprouts under blue light was investigated. The results showed that blue light, with a short wavelength, effectively induced anthocyanin accumulation in the hypocotyl of soybean sprout cultivar "Dongnong 690." Calcium supplementation further enhanced anthocyanin content, which was obviously inhibited by LaCl₃ and neomycin treatment. Moreover, exogenous calcium changed the metabolism of anthocyanins, and seven anthocyanin compounds were detected. The trend of calcium fluorescence intensity in hypocotyl cells, as well as that of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and calmodulin content, was consistent with that of anthocyanins content. Specific spatial distribution patterns of calcium antimonate precipitation were observed in the ultrastructure of hypocotyl cells under different conditions. Furthermore, calcium application upregulated the expression of genes related to anthocyanin biosynthesis, and calcium inhibitors suppressed these genes. Finally, transcriptomics was performed to gain global insights into the molecular regulation mechanism of calcium-associated anthocyanin production. Genes from the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway were distinctly enriched among the differentially expressed genes, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis showed that two MYBs were related to the accumulation of anthocyanins. These results indicated that calcium released from apoplast and intracellular stores in specific spatial-temporal features promote blue light-induced anthocyanin accumulation by upregulation of the expression of genes related to anthocyanin synthesis of "Dongnong 690" hypocotyl. The findings deepen the understanding of the calcium regulation mechanism of blue light-induced anthocyanin accumulation in soybean sprouts, which will help growers produce high-quality foods beneficial for human health.

MCTR1 Intervention Reverses Experimental Lung Fibrosis in Mice

Purpose

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a progressing lethal disease, effective curative therapies remain elusive and mortality remains high. Maresin conjugates in tissue regeneration 1 (MCTR1) is a DHA-derived lipid mediator promoting inflammation resolution produced in macrophage. However, the effect of MCTR1 on PF remains unknown.

Material and Methods

We established a lung fibrosis model in mice induced by intratracheal administration of bleomycin (BLM). On day 7 after lung fibrosis model establishment, treatment with MCTR1 up to day 21. The body weight of each mouse was recorded every day and survival curves were plotted. Histological staining was used to detect pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. Lung sections were examined with transmission electron microscope to evaluate the ultrastructure of cells and deposit of collagen. Inflammatory cytokines in lung tissues were tested by ELISA. q-PCR and Western blot were used to evaluate the mRNA and the protein levels of EMT-related markers.

Results

We found that MCTR1 intervention attenuated BLM-induced lung inflammatory and fibrotic response. Furthermore, MCTR1 protected BLM-induced epithelial cell destroy and reversed epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition phenotype into an epithelial one in lung fibrosis mice. Most importantly, post-treatment with MCTR1 restored BLM-induced lung dysfunction and enhanced survival rate significantly.

Conclusion

Posttreatment with MCTR1 attenuated BLM-induced inflammation and fibrosis changes in mice, suggested MCTR1 may serve as a novel therapeutic strategy for fibrosis-related diseases.

Hypoxia-induced increase in GABA content is essential for restoration of membrane potential and preventing ROS-induced disturbance to ion homeostasis

When plants are exposed to hypoxic conditions, the level of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in plant tissues increases by several orders of magnitude. The physiological rationale behind this elevation remains largely unanswered. By combining genetic and electrophysiological approach, in this work we show that hypoxia-induced increase in GABA content is essential for restoration of membrane potential and preventing ROS-induced disturbance to cytosolic K⁺ homeostasis and Ca²⁺ signaling. We show that reduced O₂ availability affects H⁺-ATPase pumping activity, leading to membrane depolarization and K⁺ loss via outward-rectifying GORK channels. Hypoxia stress also results in H₂O₂ accumulation in the cell that activates ROS-inducible Ca²⁺ uptake channels and triggers self-amplifying "ROS-Ca hub," further exacerbating K⁺ loss via non-selective cation channels that results in the loss of the cell's viability. Hypoxia-induced elevation in the GABA level may restore membrane potential by pH-dependent regulation of H⁺-ATPase and/or by generating more energy through the activation of the GABA shunt pathway and TCA cycle. Elevated GABA can also provide better control of the ROS-Ca²⁺ hub by transcriptional control of RBOH genes thus preventing over-excessive H₂O₂ accumulation. Finally, GABA can operate as a ligand directly controlling the open probability and conductance of K⁺ efflux GORK channels, thus enabling plants adaptation to hypoxic conditions.

IRT1 and ZIP2 were involved in exogenous hydrogen-rich water-reduced cadmium accumulation in Brassica chinensis and Arabidopsis thaliana

The results of Cd (cadmium) concentration, Cd²⁺ fluorescent staining, NMT (non-invasive micro-test technology) analysis of Cd absorption revealed the remarkably positive role of HRW in reducing Cd uptake by root of pak choi seedlings. BcIRT1 (iron-regulated transporter 1) and BcZIP2 (zinc-regulated transporter protein 2) are the main Cd transporters in pak choi, but their roles in the process of HRW-reduced Cd uptake is still far from being answered. In this study, we specifically verified the function of IRT1 and ZIP2 in HRW-reduced Cd absorption in pak choi and Arabidopsis thaliana. Heterologous and homologous expression in Arabidopsis thaliana displayed that Cd concentrations in wild-type (Col-0) and transgenic A. thaliana of IRT1 and ZIP2 were significantly reduced by HRW, except for irt1- and zip2-mutant. NMT detection showed that HRW not only decreased Cd²⁺ influx in root of WT and transgenic lines, but also enhanced the competition between Zn and Cd. Taken together, the HRW-induced reduction of Cd accumulation in plants may be result from depressing the expression of BcIRT1 and BcZIP2 and affecting the preference of BcIRT1 and BcZIP2 in ion uptake.

Hemin-decreased cadmium uptake in pak choi (Brassica chinensis L.) seedlings is heme oxygenase-1 dependent and relies on its by-products ferrous iron and carbon monoxide

Cadmium (Cd) is a major pollutant in farmland, which not only greatly restricts crop production, but also brings a serious threat to human health through entering the food chain. Our previous study showed that hemin treatment could reduce the accumulation of Cd in pak choi seedlings. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we used non-invasive micro-test technology (NMT) to detect the real-time Cd²⁺ flux from pak choi roots and demonstrated that hemin treatment decreased Cd uptake rather than its translocation within plants. Moreover, through comparing the responses of different chemical treatments in pak choi seedlings and Arabidopsis wild-type and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) mutant, we provided evidence that hemin-decreased Cd uptake was HO-1 dependent. Furthermore, analyses of hemin degradation products suggested that the hemin-derived suppression of Cd uptake suppression was probably relying on its degradation by-products, ferrous iron (Fe²⁺) and carbon monoxide (CO), via repressing the expression of a Fe²⁺/Cd²⁺ transporter BcIRT1 in pak choi roots.

Strongly correlated superconductivity in a copper-based metal-organic framework with a perfect kagome lattice

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which are self-assemblies of metal ions and organic ligands, provide a tunable platform to search a new state of matter. A two-dimensional (2D) perfect kagome lattice, whose geometrical frustration is a key to realizing quantum spin liquids, has been formed in the π - d conjugated 2D MOF [Cu₃(C₆S₆)] _n (Cu-BHT). The recent discovery of its superconductivity with a critical temperature T _c of 0.25 kelvin raises fundamental questions about the nature of electron pairing. Here, we show that Cu-BHT is a strongly correlated unconventional superconductor with extremely low superfluid density. A nonexponential temperature dependence of superfluid density is observed, indicating the possible presence of superconducting gap nodes. The magnitude of superfluid density is much smaller than those in conventional superconductors and follows the Uemura's relation of strongly correlated superconductors. These results imply that the unconventional superconductivity in Cu-BHT originates from electron correlations related to spin fluctuations of kagome lattice.

Enhanced vacuole compartmentalization of cadmium in root cells contributes to glutathione-induced reduction of cadmium translocation from roots to shoots in pakchoi (Brassica chinensis L.)

Our previous studies showed that exogenous glutathione (GSH) decreased cadmium (Cd) concentration in shoots and alleviated the growth inhibition in pakchoi (Brassica chinensis L.) under Cd stress. Nevertheless, it is largely unknown how GSH decreases Cd accumulation in edible parts of pakchoi. This experiment mainly explored the mechanisms of GSH-induced reduction of Cd accumulation in shoot of pakchoi. The results showed that compared with sole Cd treatment, Cd + GSH treatment remarkably increased the expression of BcIRT1 and BcIRT2, and further enhanced the concentrations of Cd and Fe in root. By contrast, GSH application declined the concentration of Cd in the xylem sap. However, these results were not caused by xylem loading process because the expression of BcHMA2 and BcHMA4 had not significant difference between sole Cd treatment and Cd + GSH treatment. In addition, exogenous GSH significantly enhanced the expression of BcPCS1 and promoted the synthesis of PC₂, PC₃ and PC₄ under Cd stress. At the same time, exogenous GSH also significantly improved the expression of BcABCC1 and BcABCC2 in the roots of seedling under Cd stress, suggesting that more PCs-Cd complexes may be sequestrated into vacuoles by ABCC1 and ABCC2 transporters. The results showed that exogenous GSH could up-regulate the expression of BcIRT1/2 to increase the Cd accumulation in root, and the improvement of PCs contents and the expression of BcABCC1/2 enhanced the compartmentalization of Cd in root vacuole of pakchoi under Cd stress. To sum up, exogenous GSH reduce the concentration of free Cd²⁺ in the cytoplast of root cells and then dropped the loading of Cd into the xylem, which eventually given rise to the reduction of Cd accumulation in edible portion of pakchoi.

Expression of lncRNA-ANRIL in patients with coronary heart disease before and after treatment and its short-term prognosis predictive value

OBJECTIVE

This study was designed to explore the expression of LncRNA-ANRIL in patients with coronary heart disease before and after treatment and its short-term survival prediction value.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eighty-three patients with coronary heart disease who came to our hospital undergoing interventional therapy were selected as a research group, 81 healthy volunteers who came to our hospital for normal physical examination during the same period were selected as a control group, and LncRNA-ANRIL of subjects in the two groups before and after treatment were detected by RT-PCR. Levels of Gensini score, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB), creatine kinase (CK), and BNP of patients in research group before treatment were evaluated and detected, and the correlation between those and LncRNA-ANRIL was analyzed. Then, the effective treatment of LncRNA-ANRIL for patients with coronary heart disease and the predictive value of poor prognosis were analyzed.

RESULTS

The expression of LncRNA-ANRIL in patients with coronary heart disease was lower than that of normal subjects (p<0.05), and the expression levels of Gensini score, LDH, CK-MB, CK, and BNP gradually increased with the increased number of their diseased vessels (p<0.05). The expression of LncRNA-ANRIL was negatively correlated with expressions of Gensini score, LDH, CK-MB, CK, and BNP (p<0.05); ROC of LncRNA-ANRIL in predicting effective treatment, and poor prognosis of patients with coronary heart disease was over 0.9, as well as smoking; LncRNA-ANRIL, Gensini score, LDH, CK-MB, CK, and BNP were independent risk factors for the occurrence of MACE.

CONCLUSIONS

LncRNA-ANRIL expresses low in the serum of patients with coronary heart disease, and it has high predictive value both for effective treatment and poor prognosis of them. Also, lncRNA-ANRIL is also an independent risk factor for their poor prognosis.

Back pain from painful osteoporotic vertebral fractures: discrepancy between the actual fracture location and the location suggested by patient-reported pain or physical examination findings

Caution is necessary when using symptom or physical examination findings to localize the osteoporotic vertebral fractures (VFs) attributable to the discrepant colocalized relationship.

INTRODUCTION

Whether the location of symptoms or physical examination findings delineates the appropriate spinal range for imaging has not been thoroughly investigated for VFs. The present study aims to analyze the consistency between the fractural vertebrae location and the location suggested by patient-reported pain or physical examination findings.

METHODS

This observational study, following a prospective design, enrolled 358 patients with VFs. The locations of two symptoms (patient-reported back pain [P-RBP], radiating pain [RP]) and findings from two physical examinations (spinal palpation tenderness [SPT], axial spinal percussion pain [ASPP]) were used to locate the VF segments identified using whole-spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The percentage of agreements and kappa coefficient were calculated.

RESULTS

In 20.7% (74/358), the P-RBP site and VF segments were in the same location (kappa = 0.153); 21.2% (76/358) presented with concomitant RP in 93.4% (71/76) of whom the RP dermatome was colocalized with the VF segments (kappa = 0.924); 55.0% (197/358) and 23.2% (83/358) of patients presented with positive SPT and ASPP, respectively; and in 49.2% (97/197) and 96.4% (80/83) of patients with positive SPT (kappa = 0.435) and ASPP (kappa = 0.963), the positive finding and the VF segments were consistently colocalized.

CONCLUSIONS

The positive finding of RP or ASPP is useful in determining the spinal range for imaging tests, while an MRI scan covering the whole thoracic and lumbar spine is necessary in VF-suspected patients with P-RBP or positive SPT, indicating that caution is necessary when using symptoms or physical examination findings to localize VFs.

Hydrogen-rich water promotes elongation of hypocotyls and roots in plants through mediating the level of endogenous gibberellin and auxin

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of the hydrogen-rich water (HRW) on the vegetable growth, and explore the possibility of applying HRW for protected cultivation of vegetables. Results showed that compared with control, HRW treatment significantly promoted fresh weight, hypocotyl length and root length of mung bean seedlings. The strongest stimulation was observed for 480 μM H2 (60% of saturated HRW concentration) treatment. This concentration was used in the following experiments. The enhanced cell elongation was correlated with the changes in the level of endogenous phytohormones. In the dark-grown hypocotyls and roots of mung bean seedlings, HRW significantly increased the content of IAA and GA3. Addition of GA3 enhanced the hypocotyl elongation only. uniconazole, an inhibitor of GA3 biosynthesis, inhibited HRW-induced hypocotyl elongation, but did not affect root elongation. Exogenous application of IAA promoted HRW effects on elongation of both the hypocotyl and the root, while the IAA biosynthesis inhibitor TIBA negated the above affects. The general nature of HRW-induced growth-promoting effects was further confirmed in experiments involving cucumber and radish seedlings. Taken together, HRW treatment promoted growth of seedlings, by stimulating elongation of hypocotyl and root cells, via HRW-induced increase in GA and IAA content in the hypocotyl and the root respectively.

Calcium-Dependent Hydrogen Peroxide Mediates Hydrogen-Rich Water-Reduced Cadmium Uptake in Plant Roots

Hydrogen gas (H₂) has a possible signaling role in many developmental and adaptive plant responses, including mitigating the harmful effects of cadmium (Cd) uptake from soil. We used electrophysiological and molecular approaches to understand how H₂ ameliorates Cd toxicity in pak choi (Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis). Exposure of pak choi roots to Cd resulted in a rapid increase in the intracellular H₂ production. Exogenous application of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) resulted in a Cd-tolerant phenotype, with reduced net Cd uptake and accumulation. We showed that this is dependent upon the transport of calcium ions (Ca²⁺) across the plasma membrane and apoplastic generation of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) by respiratory burst oxidase homolog (BcRbohD). The reduction in root Cd uptake was associated with the application of exogenous HRW or H₂O₂ This reduction was abolished in the iron-regulated transporter1 (Atirt1) mutant of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), and pak choi pretreated with HRW showed decreased BcIRT1 transcript levels. Roots exposed to HRW had rapid Ca²⁺ influx, and Cd-induced Ca²⁺ leakage was alleviated. Two Ca²⁺ channel blockers, gadolinium ion (Gd³⁺) and lanthanum ion (La³⁺), eliminated the HRW-induced increase in BcRbohD expression, H₂O₂ production, and Cd²⁺ influx inhibition. Collectively, our results suggest that the Cd-protective effect of H₂ in plants may be explained by its control of the plasma membrane-based NADPH oxidase encoded by RbohD, which operates upstream of IRT1 and regulates root Cd uptake at both the transcriptional and functional levels. These findings provide a mechanistic explanation for the alleviatory role of H₂ in Cd accumulation and toxicity in plants.

GABA operates upstream of H+-ATPase and improves salinity tolerance in Arabidopsis by enabling cytosolic K+ retention and Na+ exclusion

The non-protein amino acid γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) rapidly accumulates in plant tissues in response to salinity. However, the physiological rationale for this elevation remains elusive. This study compared electrophysiological and whole-plant responses of salt-treated Arabidopsis mutants pop2-5 and gad1,2, which have different abilities to accumulate GABA. The pop2-5 mutant, which was able to overaccumulate GABA in its roots, showed a salt-tolerant phenotype. On the contrary, the gad1,2 mutant, lacking the ability to convert glutamate to GABA, showed oversensitivity to salinity. The greater salinity tolerance of the pop2-5 line was explained by: (i) the role of GABA in stress-induced activation of H+-ATPase, thus leading to better membrane potential maintenance and reduced stress-induced K+ leak from roots; (ii) reduced rates of net Na+ uptake; (iii) higher expression of SOS1 and NHX1 genes in the leaves, which contributed to reducing Na+ concentration in the cytoplasm by excluding Na+ to apoplast and sequestering Na+ in the vacuoles; (iv) a lower rate of H2O2 production and reduced reactive oxygen species-inducible K+ efflux from root epidermis; and (v) better K+ retention in the shoot associated with the lower expression level of GORK channels in plant leaves.

The zinc-regulated protein (ZIP) family genes and glutathione s-transferase (GST) family genes play roles in Cd resistance and accumulation of pak choi (Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis)

The molecular mechanisms of the differences among the Cd tolerance and accumulation of different pak choi cultivars are essential to further breed Cd-safe genotypes pak choi. In our research, via morphological comparison, qRT-PCR and yeast function complementary approaches, we explored the differences of Cd tolerance and capacity for Cd uptake in nine various pak choi varieties. Results showed that higher expressions of BcZIPs involved in Cd uptake in 'Kang Re605' may lead to its higher capacity for Cd accumulation. The lowest expressions of transporter gene in 'Wu Yueman' were consistent with its fewest ability to uptake Cd. Beyond that, the difference of resistance was very great among varieties. Meanwhile, the expressions of the BcGSTUs were differentially induced by Cd exposure in different pak choi varieties, and 'Kang Re605' performed the highest BcGSTUs expression overall. To verify the role of GSTUs played in Cd resistance of pak choi, four BcGSTUs, BcGSTU4, BcGSTU11, BcGSTU12 and BcGSTU22 in a high-Cd accumulation and tolerance variety 'Kang Re605' were cloned, quantitated and transferred to Cd-sensitive yeast mutant strain. And finally found that BcGSTU11 increased the Cd tolerance of yeast, which may associate with a high Cd resistance of 'Kang Re605'. Simultaneously, less BcGSTUs abundance in 'Shang Haiqing' may result in its weak tolerance to Cd. These findings will help us to comprehend the roles of BcZIPs and BcGSTUs in Cd absorption and detoxification as well as promote our understanding of the Cd-resistant and Cd-accumulated mechanisms in pak choi.

Activation-induced cytidine deaminase expression in colorectal cancer

Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) produces immune-diversity by inducing somatic hypermutations and class-switch recombinations in human immunoglobulin genes. This role of AID in causing genomic mutations, also can potentially cause somatic mutations in various host genes of non-lymphoid tissues, and contribute to tumorigenesis. The goal of the present study was to investigate whether AID expression was involved in the development or progression of colorectal cancer, and the nuclear expression of p53 protein in cancer cells. We examined the pattern of expression of AID and p53 proteins in 71 colorectal adenomas and 122 sporadic colorectal cancers by immunohistochemistry. AID and p53 expression was detected in 57 (46.7%) and 78 (63.9%) out of 122 colorectal cancers, respectively. Statistically, the expression of the AID protein was not associated with the 5-year survival or clinical and pathological parameters, including tumor stage, location, size, and lymph node metastasis (P > 0.05). However, the expression of the AID protein was associated with tumor differentiation (P = 0.004). In addition, a significant association was observed between AID and the nuclear expression of p53 in colorectal cancers (P = 0.0357). Only 3 (4.2%) of the 71 colorectal adenomas showed immunopostivity for AID, resulting in a significant difference between total colorectal cancers and adenomas (P < 0.001). The p53 expression was detected in 7 (9.9%) out of 71 colorectal adenomas. Statistically, AID protein was not associated with the degree of dysplasia and the nuclear expression of p53 in colorectal adenomas (P > 0.05). These results suggest that aberrant expression of the AID protein might play a role in the development of colorectal cancers.

Root vacuolar Na+ sequestration but not exclusion from uptake correlates with barley salt tolerance

Soil salinity is a major constraint for the global agricultural production. For many decades, Na⁺ exclusion from uptake has been the key trait targeted in breeding programs; yet, no major breakthrough in creating salt-tolerant germplasm was achieved. In this work, we have combined the microelectrode ion flux estimation (MIFE) technique for non-invasive ion flux measurements with confocal fluorescence dye imaging technique to screen 45 accessions of barley to reveal the relative contribution of Na⁺ exclusion from the cytosol to the apoplast and its vacuolar sequestration in the root apex, for the overall salinity stress tolerance. We show that Na⁺ /H⁺ antiporter-mediated Na⁺ extrusion from the root plays a minor role in the overall salt tolerance in barley. At the same time, a strong and positive correlation was found between root vacuolar Na⁺ sequestration ability and the overall salt tolerance. The inability of salt-sensitive genotypes to sequester Na⁺ in root vacuoles was in contrast to significantly higher expression levels of both HvNHX1 tonoplast Na⁺ /H⁺ antiporters and HvVP1 H⁺ -pumps compared with tolerant genotypes. These data are interpreted as a failure of sensitive varieties to prevent Na⁺ back-leak into the cytosol and existence of a futile Na⁺ cycle at the tonoplast. Taken together, our results demonstrated that root vacuolar Na⁺ sequestration but not exclusion from uptake played the main role in barley salinity tolerance, and suggested that the focus of the breeding programs should be shifted from targeting genes mediating Na⁺ exclusion from uptake by roots to more efficient root vacuolar Na⁺ sequestration.