Facile construction of sandwich ELISA based on double-nanobody for specific detection of α-hemolysin in food samples

α-hemolysin (Hla), a toxin secreted by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), has been proved to be involved in the occurrence and aggravation of food poisoning. Hence, it is quite essential to establish its rapid detection methods to guarantee food safety. Sandwich ELISA based on nanobody is well known to be viable for toxins, but there is absence of nanobody against Hla, let alone a pair for it. Therefore, in this paper, we screened specific nanobodies by bio-panning and obtained the optimal nanobody pair for sandwich ELISA firstly. Then, RANbody, a novel nanobody owning both recognition and catalytic capability, is generated in a single step and at low cost through molecular recombination technology. Subsequently, sandwich ELISA was developed to detect Hla based on the nanobody and RANbody, that not only eliminated the use of secondary antibodies and animal-derived antibody, but also reduced detection time and cost, compared with traditional sandwich ELISA. Lastly, the performance has been evaluated, especially for specificity which showed no response to other hemolysins and a low limit of detection of 10 ng/mL. Besides, the proposed sandwich ELISA exhibits favorable feasibility and was successfully employed for the detection of Hla in milk and pork samples.

Response surface methodology to optimize the sterilization process of slightly acidic electrolyzed water for Chinese shrimp (Fenneropenaeus chinensis) and to investigate its effect on shrimp quality

Chinese shrimps are popular among consumers for their delicious taste and high nutritional value, but they are highly susceptible to deterioration due to microbial contamination with degradation of texture, color and flavor. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of available chlorine concentration (ACC), processing time and material-liquid ratio on the bacterial inhibition rate of shrimp treated with slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW). The effective parameters were optimized by response surface methodology to the optimal bactericidal conditions: ACC 88 mg/L, processing time 12 min, and material-liquid ratio 1:4. The actual bactericidal inhibition rate of shrimp under these conditions was 37.60 %. On this basis, the quality, color difference and textural changes of shrimp treated with SAEW, sodium hypochlorite and alkaline electrolytic water were compared and investigated during storage at 4 °C. The combined results showed that the SAEW treatment could extend the shelf-life by more than 2 d.

An evaluation of a healthy participant laboratory model of epidural hyperthermia: a physiological study

BACKGROUND

Hyperthermia complicates 21% of cases of intrapartum epidural analgesia, but the mechanism is unclear. One hypothesis is that blockade of cholinergic sympathetic nerves prevents active vasodilation and sweating, thus limiting heat loss. Because labour increases heat production, this could create a situation in which heat production exceeds loss, causing body temperature to rise. This physiological study tested a novel laboratory model of epidural-related hyperthermia, using exercise to simulate the increased heat production of labour and surface insulation to simulate the effect of epidural analgesia.

METHODS

Twelve healthy non-pregnant participants (six female) cycled an ergometer for two hours at 20 Watts (W) on two occasions: once with surface insulation (intervention) and once without (control). Core temperature, skin temperature (eight sites), and heat loss (eight sites) were recorded. Mean body temperature and heat production were calculated. Values are mean (SD).

RESULTS

Exercise increased heat production on both visits (intervention 38 (18) W; control 37 (31) W; P = 0.94). Total heat loss was less on the intervention visit (intervention 115 (19) W; control 129 (23) W; P = 0.002). Core temperature increased on both visits (intervention 0.21 (0.37)°C; control 0.19 (0.27)°C; P < 0.001). The increase in mean body temperature was greater on the intervention visit (intervention 0.47 (0.41)°C; control 0.25 (0.19)°C; P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

This laboratory model predicts that labour epidural analgesia limits heat loss by >14 W. Once the model is validated, it could be used to test the efficacy of potential interventions to prevent and treat epidural-related maternal hyperthermia.

Genotypic diversity of staphylococcal enterotoxin B gene (seb) and its association with molecular characterization and antimicrobial resistance of Staphylococcus aureus from retail food

To investigate the expression pattern of staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) in food and the genotypic diversity of SEB-encoding gene in association with molecular characteristics and antimicrobial resistance of S. aureus, 498 isolates from retail food were screened for seb gene and detected for SEB production in S. aureus. In addition, the seb nucleotide sequences, virulence genes, resistance genes, antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular characteristics of S. aureus were examined. A total of 45 (9.0 %) seb-positive S. aureus strains were identified, all of which expressed SEB. The detection rate of SEB-production strains was significantly higher from dairy-related sources than those from other sources (P < 0.05). In vitro simulations showed that S. aureus could grow and express SEB in both milk and pork, with SEB expression exceeding 20 ng/g after 1 day of storage at room temperature. There were 2 distinct SEB genotyping (SEB1 and SEB2) in the SEB amino acid sequences of the 45 isolates, including 4 amino acid differences (Ala-13Val, Ser14Ala, Asn192Ser, and Met222Leu). There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in SEB production between SEB1 and SEB2 genotyping strains. Based on MLST clustering analysis, the same molecular type strains were found to have the same SEB genotyping, virulence gene profile, resistance gene profile and drug resistance profile. Among them, the dominant molecular types of SEB1 and SEB2 strains were CC1-ST188-t189 and CC59-ST59-t437, respectively. Compared to the CC1-ST188-t189 clonal strain, the CC59-ST59-t437 clonal strain carried a higher number of virulence and resistance genes and exhibited a broader resistance profile. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of the strains and their expression patterns in food can be effective in preventing food poisoning incidents.

Salvage Abdominoperineal Resection for Locally Recurrent or Persistent Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma after Definitive Chemoradiation

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Initial treatment for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal includes definitive chemoradiation. Salvage abdominoperineal resection (APR) is the treatment of choice for recurrent or persistent disease. Older studies suggest approximately 50% successful salvage of recurrent or persistent disease with APR. Risk factors for failure after salvage APR are incompletely characterized.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Using a single institutional database, patients were identified who underwent salvage APR after definitive intensity-modulated radiotherapy-based chemoradiation between 2003 and 2022. Clinical and pathologic variables analyzed included age at APR, sex, race, HIV status, initial cT stage, initial cN stage, radiation dose, recurrent vs persistent disease, recurrent pT stage, recurrent pN stage, the presence of LVSI, PNI or <2mm surgical margins, and the use of either intraoperative radiation or another treatment modality in addition to APR. The log rank test was used to determine differences in time from APR to events (local recurrence, distant metastasis and death) based on clinical and pathologic variables. The Cox Proportional Hazard Model was used to perform multivariable analysis for all factors with a univariate P-value <0.1.

RESULTS

Of 628 patients with anal squamous cell carcinoma, 50 (8.0%) were treated with abdominoperineal resection for locally recurrent (n = 29, 58%) or locally persistent (n = 21, 42%) disease. Median [interquartile range] follow up was 40.0 months [15.2-68.0 months] from APR. Median local recurrence-free survival was not reached; 1- and 2-year local recurrence-free survival was 81% (95% CI 72-92%) and 76% (64-89%). On multivariable analysis, pathologic T-stage of the recurrence (3.85 (1.07-13.9); P = .040), the presence of lymphovascular space invasion (9.1 (1.12-73.62); P = .038) and surgical margins <2mm (8.81 (2.11-36.73); P = .003) were all significantly associated with higher rates of local recurrence. Median distant metastasis-free survival was not reached; 1- and 2-year distant metastasis-free survival was 88% (81-98%) and 79% (67-92%). On multivariable analysis, only persistent (versus recurrent) local disease was significantly associated with higher rates of distant metastasis (1.23 (1.05-5.55) P = .043). Median overall survival was not reached; 1- and 2-year overall survival was 90% (81-98%) and 78% (65-90%). On multivariable analysis, only recurrent pT stage (T3/4 vs T1/2) was associated with higher rates of death (5.87 (1.02-33.65); P = .047).

CONCLUSION

APR is a successful salvage modality for anal squamous cell carcinoma with recurrent or persistent disease after chemoradiation results. Patients with pT3/4 disease, lymphovascular space invasion, surgical margins <2 mm may be associated with higher re-recurrence rates and may benefit from more frequent monitoring or treatment escalation.

Predictors of Low Anterior Resection Syndrome after Long-Course Chemoradiation for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) describes disordered bowel function including tenesmus, frequent, clustered, incomplete, urgent or incontinent bowel movements. The impact of clinical and radiation dosimetric factors on LARS score is unknown. We aimed to evaluate the radiation plans for patients who received long course chemoradiation (LC-CRT) to identify potential dosimetric predictors of LARS.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We identified patients with rectal cancer treated with LC-CRT (50.4Gy in 28 fractions) at our institution from 2016-2020 who were alive and without disease. As a part of a larger patient-reported outcome survey, we obtained the Low Anterior Resection Syndrome Score (LARS) for patients without an ostomy at the time of the survey. We utilized clinical and dosimetric variables in a multivariate analysis including age at LC-CRT, body mass index, sex, distance of the tumor from the anal verge (AV), threatened mesorectal fascia (MRF) on staging imaging, T-stage, N-stage, receipt of surgery (vs non-operative management (NOM), radiation technique (3DCRT vs VMAT), mean dose and D0.03ccs for the anal canal (defined as 4cm from the anal verge) and D0.03cc, V30Gy and V45Gy for the small bowel loops. We then created a multiple linear regression model to predict LARS using P>.20 on univariate testing.

RESULTS

Of 110 patients treated with preoperative LC-CRT and who did not have an ostomy, 57 responded (51.8%). The median [interquartile range (IQR)] interval from completion of LC-CRT to survey completion was 38.4 months [26.3-48.9]. Thirty-four patients (60%) were men, the median [IQR] BMI was 28 [24-31.9], the median [IQR] distance of the tumor to the anal verge was 7cm [5-10], 40 (70%) had T3 tumors, 7 (12%) had T4 tumors, 45 (79%) were N+. Forty-one patients (72%) had surgery following LC-CRT, and 16 (28%) had non-operative management. 3D conformal technique was used for 47 (82%) and VMAT used for 10 patients (18%). The median [IQR] LARS score was 32 [24-38] with 35 patients (61%) classified as Major LARS (LARS score = 30-42). On multiple linear regression modeling (Table), only receipt of surgery significantly predicted for higher (worse) LARS score.

CONCLUSION

In our cohort, patients who received surgery after LC-CRT had a significantly higher LARS score. Of the dosimetric parameters tested, D0.03ccs was the best predictor and could potentially be significant with a larger number of patients. Further work is needed to improve bowel function and quality of life for patients treated with LC-CRT for rectal adenocarcinoma.

Outcomes and after Hyperfractionated, Accelerated Reirradiation for Recurrent Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Abdominoperineal resection (APR) is the standard salvage treatment for recurrent or persistent squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA). However, reirradiation (reRT) can be used preoperatively or for those who are not candidates for surgery.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Using a single institutional database, patients were identified who underwent reRT for SCCA from 2003 to 2022. Response to reRT and outcomes after reRT were recorded. Variables analyzed included age at reRT, sex, reason for reRT (recurrent SCCA vs new SCCA after pelvic radiation for a different malignancy), interval between initial radiation and reRT, reRT dose, concurrent chemotherapy, receipt of APR and the presence of distant metastases at the time of reRT. Cox Proportional Hazard Model was used; multivariable analysis for all factors with a univariate P-value <0.1 on univariable analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients received reRT, which consisted of 1.5 Gray (Gy) twice daily fractions with ≥6-hour interval to a total dose ranging 30Gy to 54Gy (median [IQR] 39Gy [39-42Gy]. Thirty-eight patients (90.5%) received concurrent chemotherapy; most often with weekly cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (N = 23, 54.8%). Median [IQR] follow-up after reRT was 11.4 months [4.9-40.8 months]. Median [IQR] initial radiation dose was 54Gy [54-58Gy], and median [IQR] interval between initial radiation and reRT was 3.6 years [2.1-6.0 years]. For 8 patients (19.1%), the initial radiation was given for a different pelvic malignancy prior to being diagnosed with SCCA. Four of these patients received brachytherapy alone or in conjunction with external beam. For the remaining 34 patients, the initial radiation was for SCCA and the reRT was for recurrent SCCA either in the anal canal (N = 23, 67.6%) or regional nodes (N = 11, 32.3%). Four patients (9.5%) had distant disease at the time of reRT. Eleven patients (26.2%) had planned APR after preoperative reRT; 1 patient had a pathologic complete response (pCR), 2 patients had a near pCR (<5% viable cancer). Twenty-nine patients (69.0%) were treated with reRT alone; 15 (51.7%) attained a clinical CR. Two patients (4.8%) were treated with palliative intent and response was not assessed. Median local recurrence free survival (LRFS) was 9.9 months; 2- and 3-year LRFS were both 41%. Median distant metastasis free survival (DMFS) was 11.8 months; 2- and 3-year DMFS were 38% and 34%, respectively. Median overall survival (OS) was 40.5 months; 2- and 3-year OS were 54% and 51%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, only the presence of distant disease at the time of reRT was significantly associated with worse LRFS (HR (95% CI) 4.14 (1.34-12.81); P = .014), worse DMFS (4.06 (1.37-12.06); P = .012) and worse OS (5.73 (1.57-20.9); P = .008).

CONCLUSION

ReRT is an option for patients presenting with either recurrent SCCA or new SCCA after prior pelvic radiation for a different malignancy. ReRT can be given prior to planned salvage APR or alone for patients who are not surgical candidates with an approximate 50% cCR rate.

Electron beam irradiation degrades the toxicity and alters the protein structure of Staphylococcus aureus alpha-hemolysin

α-Hemolysin (Hla) is a potent pore-forming toxin (PFT) produced by Staphylococcus aureus that exacerbates the pathogenesis of S. aureus enterotoxicity and plays a role in population food poisoning. Hla lyses cells by binding to host cell membranes and oligomerizing to form heptameric structures, thereby disrupting the cell barrier. Although the broad bactericidal effect of electron beam irradiation (EBI) has been demonstrated whether it has a damaging or degrading effect on Hla's remains unknown. In this study, EBI was found to have the effect of altering the secondary structure of Hla proteins, verifying that the damaging effect of EBI-treated Hla on intestinal and skin epithelial cell barriers was significantly reduced. It was noted by hemolysis and protein interactions that EBI treatment significantly disrupted the binding of Hla to its high-affinity receptor, but did not affect the binding between Hla monomers to form heptamers. Thus, EBI can effectively reduce the threat of Hla to food safety.

[High-fat intake alleviates lung injury induced by Paragonimus proliferus infection in rats through up-regulating CYP 4A1 expression in lung tissues]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the improvements of high-fat intake on lung injury induced by Paragonimus proliferus infection in rats, and to preliminarily explore the mechanisms underlying the role of cytochrome P450 4A1 (CYP 4A1) in the improve ments.

METHODS

SD rats were randomly assigned into three groups, including the normal control group (n = 10), the infection and normal diet group (n = 12) and the infection and high-fat diet group (n = 12). Rats in the normal control group were fed with normal diet and without any other treatments, and animals in the infection and normal diet group were subcutaneously injected with 8 excysted metacercariae of P. proliferus via the abdominal wall, followed by feeding with normal diet, while rats in the infection and high-fat diet group were subcutaneously injected with 8 excysted metacercariae of P. proliferus via the abdominal wall, followed by feeding with high-fat diet. All rats were sacrificed 28 weeks post-infection, and serum samples and lung specimens were collected. Following hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining of rat lung specimens, the rat lung injury was observed under an optical microscope, and alveolitis was evaluated using semi-quantitative scoring. Serum interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the cytochrome P450 4A1 (CYP 4A1) expression was quantified in rat lung specimens at transcriptional and translational levels using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting assays.

RESULTS

Alveolar wall thickening, edema and inflammatory cell infiltration were alleviated 28 weeks post-infection with P. proliferus in rats in the infection and high-fat diet group relative to the infection and normal diet group, and no alveolar consolidation was seen in the infection and high-fat diet group. The semi-quantitative score of alveolitis was significantly higher in the infection and normal diet group [(2.200 ± 0.289) points] than in the normal control group [(0.300 ± 0.083) points] and the infection and high-fat diet group [(1.300 ± 0.475) points] (both P values < 0.05), and higher serum IL-1β [(151.586 ± 20.492)] pg/mL and TNF-α levels [(180.207 ± 23.379) pg/mL] were detected in the infection and normal diet group than in the normal control group [IL-1β: (103.226 ± 3.366) pg/mL; TNF-α: (144.807 ± 1.348) pg/mL] and the infection and high-fat diet group [IL-1β: (110.131 ± 12.946) pg/mL; TNF-α: (131.764 ± 27.831) pg/mL] (all P values < 0.05). In addition, lower CYP 4A1 mRNA (3.00 ± 0.81) and protein expression (0.40 ± 0.02) was quantified in lung specimens in the infection and normal diet group than in the normal control group [(5.03 ± 2.05) and (0.84 ± 0.14)] and the infection and high-fat diet group [(11.19 ± 3.51) and (0.68 ± 0.18)] (all P values < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

High-fat intake may alleviate lung injuries caused by P. proliferus infection in rats through up-regulating CYP 4A1 expression in lung tissues at both translational and transcriptional levels.

Effect and Mechanism of Eliminating Staphylococcus aureus by Electron Beam Irradiation and Reducing the Toxicity of Its Metabolites

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the mechanism of sterilization of Staphylococcus aureus by electron beam irradiation (0.5-, 1-, 2-, 4-, and 6-kGy treatments) and whether it reduces the toxicity of its fermentation supernatant. In this study, we investigated the mechanism of sterilization of S. aureus by electron beam irradiation using colony count, membrane potential, intracellular ATP, and UV absorbance measurements; we used hemolytic, cytotoxic, and suckling mouse wound models to verify that electron beam irradiation reduced the toxicity of the S. aureus fermentation supernatant. The results showed that 2 kGy of electron beam irradiation treatment completely inactivated S. aureus in suspension culture, and 4 kGy inactivated cells in S. aureus biofilms. This study suggests that the bactericidal effect of electron beam irradiation on S. aureus may be attributed to reversible damage to the cytoplasmic membrane, resulting in its leakage and the significant degradation of genomic DNA. The combined results of hemolytic, cytotoxic, and suckling mouse wound models demonstrated that the toxicity of S. aureus metabolites was significantly reduced when the electron beam irradiation dose was 4 kGy. In summary, electron beam irradiation has the potential to control S. aureus and reduce its toxic metabolites in food. IMPORTANCE Electron beam irradiation of >1 kGy damaged the cytoplasmic membrane, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) penetrated the cells. Electron beam irradiation of >4 kGy reduces the combined toxicity of virulent proteins produced by Staphylococcus aureus. Electron beam irradiation of >4 kGy can be used to inactivate Staphylococcus aureus and biofilms on milk.

Inactivation of two SARS-CoV-2 virus surrogates by electron beam irradiation on large yellow croaker slices and their packaging surfaces

The detection of infectious SARS-CoV-2 in food and food packaging associated with the cold chain has raised concerns about the possible transmission pathway of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in foods transported through cold-chain logistics and the need for novel decontamination strategies. In this study, the effect of electron beam (E-beam) irradiation on the inactivation of two SARS-CoV-2surrogate, viruses porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and porcine transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), in culture medium and food substrate, and on food substrate were investigated. The causes of virus inactivation were also investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Quantitative Real-time PCR (QRT-PCR). Samples packed inside and outside, including virus-inoculated large yellow croaker and virus suspensions, were irradiated with E-beam irradiation (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 kGy) under refrigerated (0 °C)and frozen (−18 °C) conditions. The titers of both viruses in suspension and fish decreased significantly (P < 0.05) with increasing doses of E-beam irradiation. The maximum D₁₀ value of both viruses in suspension and fish was 1.24 kGy. E-beam irradiation at doses below 10 kGy was found to destroy the spike proteins of both SARS-CoV-2 surrogate viruses by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and negative staining of thin-sectioned specimens, rendering them uninfectious. E-beam irradiation at doses greater than 10 kGy was also found to degrade viral genomic RNA by qRT-PCR. There were no significant differences in color, pH, TVB-N, TBARS, and sensory properties of irradiated fish samples at doses below 10 kGy. These findings suggested that E-beam irradiation has the potential to be developed as an efficient non-thermal treatment to reduce SARS-CoV-2 contamination in foods transported through cold chain foods to reduce the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans through the cold chain.

First Report of Colletotrichum aenigma Causing Anthracnose of tree peony in China

Tree peonies (Paeonia suffruticosa Andr. and hybrids) are well-known ornamental and medicinal plants cultivated in temperate and subtropical regions around the world. From June to September 2021, severe leaf spot disease was observed on 3 tree peony cultivars ('Luoyanghong', 'Moyushenghui', 'Roufurong') in Xinxiang (35º29´N, 113º95´E) and Luoyang (34º64´N, 112º49´E), Henan Province, China. Leaf spot incidence was as high as 28% ('Luoyanghong'), 45% ('Moyushenghui') and 67% ('Roufurong'), respectively. Symptoms appeared initially as small purple spots less than 1 mm in diameter in the middle and upper parts of the leaves, and then evolved to coalescent lesions, causing brown scorch ultimately. From each cultivar, 5 diseased leaves were collected. Leaflet tissues (3-4 mm2) cut from spot margins were surface sterilized in 75% alcohol for 45 s, washed 5 times with sterile distilled water, and then cultivated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium at 28 °C in the dark. Eleven isolates were obtained, and colonies grown from single conidia on PDA were 80-85 mm in diameter after 10 d, with scattered small, dark-based spikes on the surface of the colonies. The aerial mycelium was cottony, dense, and dark gray near the center on the reverse side. Conidia were cylindrical to clavate, with rounded apex and rounded base, and the conidia contents were granular, 8.44-14.06×3.60-4.31 μm (mean=11.28×3.69 μm, n=40). Appressoria were mostly subglobose or with a few broad lobes, pale to medium brown, 3.36-6.72×3.35-5.60 μm (mean=5.02×4.55 μm, n=20). Based on the culture representation and conidial morphology, the isolates were characterized as Colletotrichum gloeosporioides species complex (Weir et al. 2012; Fu et al. 2019). To further identity the species, the actin (ACT), calmodulin (CAL), chitin synthase (CHS-1), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), and the ribosomal internal transcribed spacers (ITS) loci of isolates PSW0002, PSW0008 and PSW0009 were amplified using ACT-512F/ACT-783R, CL1C/CL2C, CHS-79F/CHS-345R, GDF/GDR, and ITS1/ITS4, primers (Weir et al. 2012; Schena et al; 2014; Kim et al. 2021; Li et al. 2021). Fifteen sequences were deposited in GenBank (ACT for OP225605, OP225606, and OP225607, CAL for OP225608, OP225609 and OP225610, CHS for OP225611, OP225612 and OP225613, GAPDH for ON321897, OP225614, and OP225615, and ITS for ON323473, OP214349 and OP214350 ), which showed 100% sequence similarity to Colletotrichum aenigma (JX009443 and JX009519 for ACT, JX009683 and JX009684 for CAL, JX009774 and JX009903 for CHS-1, JX010244 and JX009913 for GAPDH, JX010243 and JX010148 for ITS). Three isolates clustered with C. aenigma (ex-holotype culture ICMP 18608) in the multi-locus phylogenetic tree with a bootstrap value of 100%. To achieve Koch's postulates, pathogenicity was tested on 5-year-old healthy potted plants ('Luoyanghong'). Thirty leaves were inoculated with 10 µL conidial suspension (isolate PSW0002, 1×106 conidia/mL) and the controls were inoculated with sterile water. Plants were placed in a greenhouse at 28°C under conditions with 12 h photoperiod and 90% relative humidity. After 5 to 10 days, distinct spots were observed on the inoculated leaves, while the control leaves showed no symptoms. C. aenigma was reisolated from all inoculated leaves, but not from the control. C. aenigma has been reported to cause anthracnose on Pyrus pyrifolia (Weir et al. 2012), Camellia sasanqua (Chen et al. 2019), Juglans regia (Wang et al. 2020), Paeonia ostii (Ren et al. 2020), and Capsicum annuum (Sharma et al. 2022). A previous study reported C. gloeosporioides as a pathogen of anthracnose in tree peonies in China (Xuan et al. 2017), the typical symptoms were big necrotic lesions (5-10 mm diam) on leaves，which were significantly different from those caused by C. aenigma. To our knowledge, this is the first report of C. aenigma causing anthracnose in tree peonies in China. This finding may help to take effective control of anthracnose in tree peonies.

Effects of residual feed intake divergence on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and blood biochemical parameters in small-sized meat ducks

Feed efficiency (FE) is a major economic trait of meat duck. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of residual feed intake (RFI) divergence on growth performance, carcass traits, meat quality, and blood biochemical parameters in small-sized meat ducks. A total of 500 healthy 21-day-old male ducks were housed in individual cages until slaughter at 63 d of age. The growth performance was determined for all the ducks. The carcass yield, meat quality, and blood biochemical parameters were determined for the selected 30 high-RFI (HRFI) and 30 low-RFI (LRFI) ducks. In terms of growth performance, the RFI, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and average daily feed intake (ADFI) were found to be significantly lower in the LRFI group (P < 0.01), whereas no differences were observed in the BW and body weight gain (P > 0.05). For slaughter performance, no differences were observed in the carcass traits between the LRFI and HRFI groups (P > 0.05). For meat quality, the shear force of breast muscle was significantly lower in the LRFI group (P < 0.05), while the other meat quality traits of breast and thigh muscles demonstrated no differences (P > 0.05). For blood biochemical parameters, the serum concentrations of triglycerides (TG) and glucose (GLU) were significantly lower in the LRFI group (P < 0.05), while the other parameters showed no differences (P > 0.05). The correlation analysis demonstrated a high positive correlation between RFI, FCR, and ADFI (P < 0.01). The RFI demonstrated a negative effect on the breast muscle and lean meat yields, but a positive effect on the shear force of breast muscle (P < 0.05). Further, the RFI demonstrated a positive effect on the TG and GLU levels (P < 0.05). These results indicate that the selection for low RFI could improve the FE of small-sized meat ducks without affecting the production performance. This study provides valuable insight into the biological processes underlying the variations in FE in small-sized meat ducks.

Prevalence, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Molecular Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Retail Ice Cream in Shaanxi Province, China

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is one of the major opportunistic foodborne pathogens as well as a source of human and animal infections. As surveillance of S. aureus and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is limited in ice cream, a total of 240 ice cream samples were collected from three cities in Shaanxi province, China, and screened for S. aureus. All isolates were characterized by antimicrobial susceptibility testing, staphylococcal protein A typing, multilocus sequence typing, enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus typing, virulence, and resistance genes. S. aureus was recovered from 10 (4.2%) ice cream samples (13 isolates) with average count from 10 to 100 colony-forming units per gram in all cases. Resistance to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, penicillin, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (each 100.0%) was most frequently observed, followed by ampicillin (76.9%), erythromycin (46.2%), ceftriaxone (30.8%), and cefoxitin (15.4%). A total of five types of antimicrobial resistance genes were detected, including β-lactam (blaZ and mecA), macrolide (ermB and ermC), tetracycline (tetK), aminoglycoside [aac(6')/aph(2') and aph(3')-III], and trimethoprim (dfrG). All of the strains harbored at least one staphylococcal enterotoxins gene. The commonly detected virulence genes were selw and hld (100.0%), followed by selx (92.3%); hla (84.6%); pvl (76.9%); seg, sem, and sen (each 38.5%); sei, seo, and hlb (each 30.8%); sea, seb, selu, and sely (each 23.1%); sed, sej, sek, sep, and seq (each 15.4%); and ser (7.7%). ST5-t002, ST7-t091, and ST5225-t4911 (each 15.4%) were the predominant clones, followed by ST5-t045/t105, ST6-t701/t15417, ST25-t078, ST188-t189, and ST398-t034 (each 7.7%). Among the 13 strains of S. aureus, 2 isolates were detected as MRSA (15.4%), and the molecular type belonged to ST5225-IVa-t4911. Using a 98.8% similarity cutoff, the 13 isolates were divided into 5 clusters (I-1 to I-5). These results demonstrated that the prevalence of S. aureus and MRSA was low in ice cream. However, these isolates exhibited a high level of potential pathogenicity, which represents a potential health hazard for consumers.

Bone and non-contractile soft tissue changes following open kinetic chain resistance training and testosterone treatment in spinal cord injury: an exploratory study

Twenty men with spinal cord injury (SCI) were randomized into two 16-week intervention groups receiving testosterone treatment (TT) or TT combined with resistance training (TT + RT). TT + RT appears to hold the potential to reverse or slow down bone loss following SCI if provided over a longer period.

INTRODUCTION

Persons with SCI experience bone loss below the level of injury. The combined effects of resistance training and TT on bone quality following SCI remain unknown.

METHODS

Men with SCI were randomized into 16-week treatments receiving TT or TT + RT. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the right lower extremity before participation and post-intervention was used to visualize the proximal, middle, and distal femoral shaft, the quadriceps tendon, and the intermuscular fascia of the quadriceps. For the TT + RT group, MRI microarchitecture techniques were utilized to elucidate trabecular changes around the knee. Individual mixed models were used to estimate effect sizes.

RESULTS

Twenty participants completed the pilot trial. A small effect for yellow marrow in the distal femur was indicated as increases following TT and decreases following TT + RT were observed. Another small effect was observed as the TT + RT group displayed greater increases in intermuscular fascia length than the TT arm. Distal femur trabecular changes for the TT + RT group were generally small in effect (decreased trabecular thickness variability, spacing, and spacing variability; increased network area). Medium effects were generally observed in the proximal tibia (increased plate width, trabecular thickness, and network area; decreased trabecular spacing and spacing variability).

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot suggests longer TT + RT interventions may be a viable rehabilitation technique to combat bone loss following SCI.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registered with clinicaltrials.gov : NCT01652040 (07/27/2012).

Research Note: Effects of the rearing method and stocking density on carcass traits and proximate composition of meat in small-sized meat ducks

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different rearing methods and stocking densities on carcass yield and proximate composition of meat in small-sized meat ducks. A total of 555 one-day-old birds were randomly allocated to six treatment groups (three replicates per treatment, sex ratio 1/1) with a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of two rearing methods (reared in cage or net) and three stocking densities (5 [low], 7 [medium], or 9 [high] birds/m²) until day 70. Five male and five female birds from each replicate were randomly selected and processed to determine the carcass yield. Proximate composition was determined by proximate analysis using the breast and thigh muscles. There was no interaction effect between the rearing method and stocking density on carcass yield. The rearing method affected the thigh muscle rate, which was higher in the cage groups (P < 0.05). The final BW and abdominal fat rate decreased with increasing density (P < 0.05), whereas the thigh muscle rate increased (P < 0.05). There were significant interaction effects (P < 0.05) between the rearing method and stocking density on the content of protein, fat, and collagen. The content of fat and moisture was greater and lower, respectively, in the cage groups (P < 0.05). The content of moisture, fat, and collagen with a medium density was higher (P < 0.05). In addition, the content of protein and fat was lower in the ducks fed in nets at low and high densities (P < 0.05), respectively; the collagen content of breast and thigh muscle was lower in the ducks fed in cages and nets, respectively, at a low density (P < 0.05). Our findings provide valuable insights into the single and interactive effects of the rearing method and stocking density on duck slaughter performance and proximate composition of meat. The results indicate that a rearing system with a cage pattern and a medium density is better than other arrangements for small-sized meat ducks.

Tunable anomalous Hall conductivity through volume-wise magnetic competition in a topological kagome magnet

Magnetic topological phases of quantum matter are an emerging frontier in physics and material science. Along these lines, several kagome magnets have appeared as the most promising platforms. Here, we explore magnetic correlations in the kagome magnet Co3Sn2S2. Using muon spin-rotation, we present evidence for competing magnetic orders in the kagome lattice of this compound. Our results show that while the sample exhibits an out-of-plane ferromagnetic ground state, an in-plane antiferromagnetic state appears at temperatures above 90 K, eventually attaining a volume fraction of 80% around 170 K, before reaching a non-magnetic state. Strikingly, the reduction of the anomalous Hall conductivity (AHC) above 90 K linearly follows the disappearance of the volume fraction of the ferromagnetic state. We further show that the competition of these magnetic phases is tunable through applying either an external magnetic field or hydrostatic pressure. Our results taken together suggest the thermal and quantum tuning of Berry curvature induced AHC via external tuning of magnetic order.

Determining the Efficacy of Liquid Sporicides Against Spores of Bacillus subtilis on a Hard Nonporous Surface Using the Quantitative Three Step Method: Collaborative Study

A collaborative study was conducted to validate the quantitative Three Step Method (TSM), a method designed to measure the performance of liquid sporicides on a hard nonporous surface. Ten laboratories agreed to participate in the collaborative study; data from 8 of 10 participating laboratories were used in the final statistical analysis. The TSM uses 5 5 1 mm glass coupons (carriers) upon which spores have been inoculated and which are introduced into liquid sporicidal agent contained in a microcentrifuge tube. Following exposure to a test chemical and a neutralization agent, spores are removed from carriers in 3 fractions: passive removal (Fraction A), sonication (Fraction B), and gentle agitation (Fraction C). Liquid from each fraction is serially diluted and plated on a recovery medium for spore enumeration. Control counts are compared to the treated counts, and the level of efficacy is determined by calculating the log10 reduction (LR) of spores. The main statistical goals were to evaluate the repeatability and reproducibility of the LR values, to estimate the components of variance for LR, and to assess method responsiveness. AOAC Method 966.04Method II was used as a reference method. The scope of the validation was limited to testing liquid formulations against spores of Bacillus subtilis, a surrogate for virulent strains of B. anthracis, on a hard nonporous surface (glass). The test chemicals used in the study were sodium hypochlorite, a combination of peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, and glutaraldehyde. Each test chemical was evaluated at 3 levels of presumed efficacy: high, medium, and low. Three replications were required. The TSM was validated as it successfully met the statistical parameters for quantitative test methods. Satisfactory validation parameters, such as the repeatability standard deviation (Sr) and reproducibility standard deviation (SR), were obtained for control carrier counts and LR values. Both the TSM and the reference method were responsive to the efficacy levels of the test chemicals. For the 72 total TSM tests conducted, the mean ( standard error of the mean) log density of spores per control carrier was 6.86 ( 0.08); the Sr and SR were low at 0.15 and 0.27, respectively. Across the range of test chemicals, the Sr and SR estimates associated with LR were also acceptably low. The Sr rangedfrom 0.17 to 0.72 and the SR ranged from 0.34 to 1.43. Overall, the Sr and SR estimates associated with the efficacy data were within the ranges published for other quantitative methods and meet the performance characteristics necessary for validation.

Abstract P5-04-16: Total estrogenic activity during neoadjuvant therapy with letrozole and exemestane – An intra-patient cross-over comparison using the AroER tri-screen

Background. Aromatase inhibitors (AIs), letrozole (Femarâ / Femaraâ) and exemestane (Aromasinâ), are widely used anti-hormonal drugs for breast cancer. Both compounds strongly reduce circulating estradiol levels in postmenopausal women. In the setting of metastatic breast cancer, these drugs may be used after another, causing new responses in selected patients by switching to the alternative drug after progressing on the first choice. This well-known ”lack of cross resistance” has been recognized for some time and is documented by several clinical trials. However, the precise explanation for this clinical observation is still unknown. The availability of mechanistic information may lead to an improved strategy against hormone-sensitive breast cancer.

Patients and methods. NEO-LET-EXE was a neoadjuvant, randomized, open-label, intra-patient cross-over trial. Postmenopausal patients with estrogen receptor (ER) positive (&gt;50%), HER-2 negative, locally advanced breast cancer were enrolled. Sequential blood samples (obtained at baseline, after 2 months and 4 months of treatment) were available from 29 patients. All patients were randomized to sequential treatment starting with either letrozole (2.5 mg o.d.) or exemestane (25 mg o.d) for 2 months followed by another 2 months on the alternative compound. The total estrogenic activities in the collected blood samples were determined using AroER tri-screen assay developed by the Chen laboratory. The assay utilizes MCF-7aro ERE cells which contain both aromatase and ER. The samples were assayed in the presence as well as the absence of letrozole, to estimate relative contributions of estrogen and estrogen+androgen to the activities, respectively.

Results. Using the highly sensitive AroER tri-screen assay, estrogenic activity were detected at three time points in all blood samples. Importantly, a significantly higher total estrogenic activity was found during therapy with exemestane compared to letrozole in 23 out of 26 patients. Only in three patients, the activity was higher during therapy with letrozole compared to exemestane. When letrozole was included in the assay, the estrogenic activities in most samples collected during exemestane treatment were further reduced, suggesting that low levels of androgen were present in samples from exemestane treatment. Four samples collected after exemestane treatment and three after letrozole treatment had higher activities than baseline samples when assay was carried out with letrozole.

Discussion. Our results suggest the AroER tri-screen to be a very sensitive method to estimate the overall estrogen-mediated activity in human samples. Significant higher levels of estrogenic activity in human serum were observed during exemestane than those during letrozole treatment. Our observations, that additional letrozole could reduce further the estrogen activity in the exemestane-treated samples, demonstrate probably residual aromatase activity during therapy with exemestane alone.In addition to distinguish the effects of exemestane and letrozole, our results also demonstrate that the assay can also potentially detect the effects of estrogenic mimics.

Citation Format: Bahrami N, Chang G, Kanaya N, Sauer T, Gravdehaug B, Chen S, Geisler J. Total estrogenic activity during neoadjuvant therapy with letrozole and exemestane – An intra-patient cross-over comparison using the AroER tri-screen [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-04-16.

Transcriptome profiling to identify key mediators of granulosa cell proliferation upon FSH stimulation in the goose (Anser cygnoides)

1. The low reproductive performance of geese has seriously hampered the development of the industry. Reproductive performance, particularly the egg laying rate mainly depends on the development of the follicle. Previous studies have shown that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays an important role in the process of follicular development, but the exact underlying mechanism remains unclear. 2. This study showed that FSH stimulated granulosa cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. The effect of FSH treatment on granulosa cell proliferation was greatest at a dose of 100 mIU/ml FSH for 24 h. 3. Secondly, the effect of different concentrations of FSH on goose granulosa cell proliferation was investigated, and de novo transcriptome assembly and gene expression analysis performed using short-read sequencing technology (Illumina). High-throughput sequencing results yielded 62.61 M reads and 7.8 G base pairs from granulosa cells treated with 100 mIU/ml FSH. These reads were assembled into 65,757 unigenes (mean length: 705 bp) with an N50 of 903 bp. A total of 110 upregulated and 510 downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by RNA-seq. 4. Functional analysis by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway annotation indicated that hormone biosynthesis (GO:0042446), positive regulation of hormone secretion (GO:0046887), steroid biosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation and carbon metabolism pathways were involved in FSH-mediated proliferation of goose granulosa cells. 5. After screening, a group of key responsive genes including superoxide dismutase 1, fatty acyl-CoA reductase 1, transforming growth factor-beta receptor-associated protein 1 and follistatin were tested by real-time reverse transcription PCR to confirm differential expression in granulosa cells stimulated by FSH. 6. FSH-stimulated goose granulosa cells and DEG profiling data provided comprehensive gene expression information at the transcriptional level that could promote better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying follicle development in response to FSH stimulation.

Session 3: Intra-operative radiotherapy - creating new surgical boundaries

In patients with advanced and recurrent colorectal cancer, surgical resection with clear margins is the greatest challenge and is limited by known anatomical constraints. Preoperative or intra-operative assessment of the limits of surgical dissection may help to explore the possibility of improving resectability through either targeted external beam radiotherapy or intra-operative radiotherapy. Professor Chang reviews the evidence base and potential advantages and disadvantages of this approach, whilst the expert panel agree a consensus on the evidence for assessment and therapy of such patients.

Sibelium in combination with dibazole in the treatment of angioneurotic headache

Angioneurotic headache is a common nerve headache featured by intermittence, repetition, paroxysm and aggravation, which can severely affect the sufferer’s quality of life. Currently, there are multiple drugs which can be used for relieving this type of headache, and the effectiveness and safety of drugs have been a subject of interest in clinical practice. To observe the effects of sibelium in combination with dibazole and offer a basis for the clinical treatment, 136 patients with angioneurotic headache who were admitted to hospital between February and September 2015 were selected and randomly divided into a test group and a control group, 68 in each. Patients in the test group were treated with sibelium in combination with dibazole, while patients in the control group were given sibelium only. The effects, adverse reactions, complications and toxic and side effects of the treatment in the two groups were observed. Furthermore, the blood flow speed and hemodynamic changes before and after treatment were compared. The results demonstrated that the hemodynamic indexes and cerebral blood flow speed of the patients in the test group showed obvious changes after treatment, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05); the improvement of the above indexes of the test group was superior to that of the control group, and the difference had statistical significance (P<0.05); the overall effective rate of the test group was higher than that of the control group (94.12% vs 76.47%) (P<0.05); the medication safety of the test group was higher than that of the control group (all P<0.05). It can be concluded that sibelium in combination with dibazole has a remarkable effect in treating angioneurotic headache as it can significantly improve hemodynamic indexes and cerebral blood flow speed. Moreover, the therapy seldom induces toxic and side effects, adverse reactions or complications.

Application of oxaliplatin in combination with epirubicin in transcatheter arterial chemoembolization in the treatment of primary liver carcinoma

Many cases of liver carcinoma miss the opportunity of surgical treatment because of hidden onset and delayed diagnosis. In recent years, interventional treatment has gradually become a non-surgical method for treating liver carcinoma. To discuss the effects of oxaliplatin in combination with epirubicin in the treatment and its influence on prognosis, this study randomly selected 218 advanced primary liver carcinoma patients from Binzhou People’s Hospital, Binzhou, China and divided them into a control group (n=109) and an observation group (n=109). Patients in both groups were given interventional treatment. Patients in the control group were perfused with oxaliplatin, while patients in the observation group were perfused with oxaliplatin and epirubicin. The effectsat 6-month and 12-month survival rates were compared between the two groups. The results demonstrated that the overall effective rate and clinical benefit rate of the observation group were much higher than those of the control group (30.3% vs 11.9%; 79.8%; vs 44.3%) (P less than 0.05). The serum Alpha Fetal Protein (AFP) and Carcino Embryonie Antigen (CEA) levels of the observation group were much lower than those of the control group; the Karnofsky performance score of the observation group was much lower than that of the control group; the two differences had statistical significance (P less than 0.05). The 6-month survival rate of the observation group was 91.67%, higher than that of the control group (86.11%) (P>0.05). The 12-month survival rate of the observation group was 83.33%, much higher than that of the control group (61.11%) (P less than 0.05). The difference of the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups had no statistical significance (P>0.05). Thus, it can be concluded that oxaliplatin in combination with epirubicin can improve survival quality, extend survival time, and decrease the serum AFP and CEA levels in the treatment of primary liver carcinoma, with definite effects but without aggravating toxic and side effects. Therefore, the therapy has important clinical value.

Identification of the crucial genes in the elimination and survival process of Salmonella enterica ser. Pullorum in the chicken spleen

Salmonella enterica ser. Pullorum is one of the most easily re-infecting pathogens in poultry production because of its mechanism of escaping from immune elimination. We used the transcriptome method to investigate the variation in gene expression in chicken spleen resulting from the interaction between hosts and S. Pullorum in the survival process. The expression of various genes related to the maturation and activation of B cells was activated before S. Pullorum was eliminated, which might help S. Pullorum escape from the elimination process. The suppression of some genes involved in the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes, such as MYO6, was identified and may be regulated by the secretion systems of S. Pullorum. In addition, a large proportion of these differentially expressed genes could be localized in the identified quantitative trait loci regions associated with the antibody response to bacteria. Collectively, these identified genes provided an outline for further understanding the interaction between chicken immune cells and S. Pullorum in chicken spleen.

AXSIS: Exploring the frontiers in attosecond X-ray science, imaging and spectroscopy

X-ray crystallography is one of the main methods to determine atomic-resolution 3D images of the whole spectrum of molecules ranging from small inorganic clusters to large protein complexes consisting of hundred-thousands of atoms that constitute the macromolecular machinery of life. Life is not static, and unravelling the structure and dynamics of the most important reactions in chemistry and biology is essential to uncover their mechanism. Many of these reactions, including photosynthesis which drives our biosphere, are light induced and occur on ultrafast timescales. These have been studied with high time resolution primarily by optical spectroscopy, enabled by ultrafast laser technology, but they reduce the vast complexity of the process to a few reaction coordinates. In the AXSIS project at CFEL in Hamburg, funded by the European Research Council, we develop the new method of attosecond serial X-ray crystallography and spectroscopy, to give a full description of ultrafast processes atomically resolved in real space and on the electronic energy landscape, from co-measurement of X-ray and optical spectra, and X-ray diffraction. This technique will revolutionize our understanding of structure and function at the atomic and molecular level and thereby unravel fundamental processes in chemistry and biology like energy conversion processes. For that purpose, we develop a compact, fully coherent, THz-driven atto-second X-ray source based on coherent inverse Compton scattering off a free-electron crystal, to outrun radiation damage effects due to the necessary high X-ray irradiance required to acquire diffraction signals. This highly synergistic project starts from a completely clean slate rather than conforming to the specifications of a large free-electron laser (FEL) user facility, to optimize the entire instrumentation towards fundamental measurements of the mechanism of light absorption and excitation energy transfer. A multidisciplinary team formed by laser-, accelerator,- X-ray scientists as well as spectroscopists and biochemists optimizes X-ray pulse parameters, in tandem with sample delivery, crystal size, and advanced X-ray detectors. Ultimately, the new capability, attosecond serial X-ray crystallography and spectroscopy, will be applied to one of the most important problems in structural biology, which is to elucidate the dynamics of light reactions, electron transfer and protein structure in photosynthesis.

Fatty acid binding protein-4 is expressed in the mouse placental labyrinth, yet is dispensable for placental triglyceride accumulation and fetal growth

INTRODUCTION

Fatty Acid Binding Protein-4 (FABP4) is a member of a family of FABP proteins that regulate intracellular lipid trafficking in diverse tissues. We recently showed that FABP4 regulates triglyceride accumulation in primary human trophoblasts. To assess the function of placental FABP4 in vivo, we tested the hypothesis that FABP4 is expressed in the murine placenta, and regulates placenta triglyceride accumulation.

METHODS

C57Bl/6 wild type or Fabp4-null mice were time-bred, and fetuses and placentas harvested at different time points during pregnancy. Placental FABP4 expression was assessed at different gestational ages, using quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and western immunoblotting. FABPs expression was examined by RT-qPCR. Placental lipids were extracted using the Folch method and triglyceride levels determined using a colorimetric quantification kit.

RESULTS

Using immunohistochemistry, we found that FABP4 was expressed in the placental labyrinthine layer, predominantly in endothelial cells in association with CD31 positive fetal capillaries. The level of placental FABP4 mRNA and protein increased from E12.5 to E16.5 and slightly decreased at E18.5. Breeding of Fabp4 heterozygous mice resulted in embryonic genotypes that followed a Mendelian distribution and exhibited normal weight and morphology, triglyceride content, and expression of other FABP family members. Exposure to hypoxia (O2 = 12%) between E12.5-E18.5 did not uncover a difference between wild type and Fabp4-null mice.

CONCLUSIONS

FABP4 is expressed in the mouse placental labyrinth, with highest expression at E16.5. FABP4 is dispensable for feto-placental growth and placental lipid accumulation.

Acute myelopathy or cauda equina syndrome in HIV-positive adults in a tuberculosis endemic setting: MRI, clinical, and pathologic findings

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Cape Town is the center of an HIV-tuberculosis coepidemic. This study's aim was to highlight the importance and to describe the MR imaging features of tuberculosis in acute myelopathy and cauda equina syndrome in HIV-positive adults. To accomplish this we retrospectively reviewed the MR imaging and clinico-pathologic findings of HIV-positive patients presenting to our hospital with recent onset paraplegia and sphincter dysfunction over a 4-year period, 2008-2011.

MATERIALS & METHODS

MR imaging, CD4 count, and CSF analysis and pathology were correlated in 216 cases.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight percent (127) of subjects were female. The mean age was 37 years. The median CD4 count was 185 cells/μL. Twenty-five percent (54) of patients were on antiretroviral therapy. MR imaging showed spondylitis in 30% (65). The median CD4 count in these patients was significantly higher than in the remainder. Disk destruction was common and 10% had synchronous spondylitis elsewhere in the spinal column. Thirty percent (64) had features of myelitis/arachnoiditis. Twenty-five percent (55) had no MR imaging abnormality. In 123 (57%) of cases with a definitive etiology on CSF culture or biopsy, 84 (68%) were attributable to tuberculosis including all spondylitis cases and 40% of nonspondylitis cases. Twelve (10%) were due to nontuberculous infection and 12 (10%) had HIV-associated tumors including 2 rare Epstein-Barr-related tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

In our setting, acute onset myelopathy/cauda equina syndrome in HIV-positive patients is largely attributable to tuberculosis with nonspondylitic forms being more common than spondylitis and associated with a lower CD4 count.

CD44 targets Na(+)/H(+) exchanger 1 to mediate MDA-MB-231 cells' metastasis via the regulation of ERK1/2

Background:

CD44, a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed in a variety of cells and tissues, has been implicated in tumour metastasis. But the molecular mechanisms of CD44-mediated tumour cell metastasis remain to be elucidated.

Methods:

The downregulation of CD44 was determined by immunofluorescence. Moreover, the motility of breast cancer cells was detected by wound-healing and transwell experiments. Then the spontaneous metastasis of CD44-silenced MDA-MB-231 cells was tested by histology with BALB/c nude mice.

Results:

A positive correlation between CD44 and Na⁺/H⁺ exchanger isoform 1 (NHE1) was found in two breast cancer cells. CD44 downregulation could inhibit the metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells and the expressions of Na⁺/H⁺ exchanger 1. Moreover, CD44 overexpression upregulated the metastasis of MCF-7 cells, but the elevated metastatic ability was then inhibited by Cariporide. Interestingly, during these processes only the p-ERK1/2 was suppressed by CD44 downregulation and the expression of matrix metalloproteinases and metastatic capacity of MDA-MB-231 cells were greatly inhibited by the MEK1 inhibitor PD98059, which even had a synergistic effect with Cariporide. Furthermore, CD44 downregulation inhibits breast tumour outgrowth and spontaneous lung metastasis.

Conclusions:

Taken together, this work indicates that CD44 regulates the metastasis of breast cancer cells through regulating NHE1 expression, which could be used as a novel strategy for breast cancer therapy.

Micro-finite element analysis applied to high-resolution MRI reveals improved bone mechanical competence in the distal femur of female pre-professional dancers

Micro-finite element analysis applied to high-resolution (0.234-mm length scale) MRI reveals greater whole and cancellous bone stiffness, but not greater cortical bone stiffness, in the distal femur of female dancers compared to controls. Greater whole bone stiffness appears to be mediated by cancellous, rather than cortical bone adaptation.

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to compare bone mechanical competence (stiffness) in the distal femur of female dancers compared to healthy, relatively inactive female controls.

METHODS

This study had institutional review board approval. We recruited nine female modern dancers (25.7±5.8 years, 1.63±0.06 m, 57.1±4.6 kg) and ten relatively inactive, healthy female controls matched for age, height, and weight (32.1±4.8 years, 1.6±0.04 m, 55.8±5.9 kg). We scanned the distal femur using a 7-T MRI scanner and a three-dimensional fast low-angle shot sequence (TR/TE=31 ms/5.1 ms, 0.234 mm×0.234 mm×1 mm, 80 slices). We applied micro-finite element analysis to 10-mm-thick volumes of interest at the distal femoral diaphysis, metaphysis, and epiphysis to compute stiffness and cross-sectional area of whole, cortical, and cancellous bone, as well as cortical thickness. We applied two-tailed t-tests and ANCOVA to compare groups.

RESULTS

Dancers demonstrated greater whole and cancellous bone stiffness and cross-sectional area at all locations (p<0.05). Cortical bone stiffness, cross-sectional area, and thickness did not differ between groups (>0.08). At all locations, the percent of intact whole bone stiffness for cortical bone alone was lower in dancers (p<0.05). Adjustment for cancellous bone cross-sectional area eliminated significant differences in whole bone stiffness between groups (p>0.07), but adjustment for cortical bone cross-sectional area did not (p<0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Modern dancers have greater whole and cancellous bone stiffness in the distal femur compared to controls. Elevated whole bone stiffness in dancers may be mediated via cancellous, rather than cortical bone adaptation.