Genetic characteristics and potential pathogenic agents in Campylobacter upsaliensis based on genomic analysis

Campylobacter upsaliensis was the most common Campylobacter species in pets' gastrointestinal tracts and has been isolated from patients with bacteremia, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, spontaneous abortion, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. However, the genetic characteristics and the full extent of its significance as a human pathogen remain to be fully understood. This study involved an investigation for genomic analysis of 154 strains from different sources and additional antimicrobial resistance profiles of 26 strains for this species. The genomes contained 1,558-1,971 CDS and the genome sizes were estimated to vary from 1.53 Mb to 1.86 Mb, with an average GC content of  34.71%. The entire analyzed genomes could be divided into three clades (A, B, and C) based on ANI and phylogenomic analysis. Significantly, nearly all strains in Clade B were isolated from patient samples, and the virulence-related sequences FlgD, GmhA, and CdtC might serve as determining factors for the classification of Clade B. Half of the tested isolates had MIC values over 64 μg mL-1 for nalidixic acid, gentamicin, and streptomycin. Isolates from pets in China carried more resistant elements in the genomes. This study both provided a comprehensive profile of C. upsaliensis for its genomic features and suggested some pathogenic agents for human infection with this species.

Comparison of Pulmonary and Extrapulmonary Models of Sepsis-Associated Acute Lung Injury

To compare different rat models of sepsis at different time points, based on pulmonary or extrapulmonary injury mechanisms, to identify a model which is more stable and reproducible to cause sepsis-associated acute lung injury (ALI). Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to (1) cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) with single (CLP1 group) or two repeated through-and-through punctures (CLP2 group); (2) tail vein injection with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of 10mg/kg (IV-LPS10 group) or 20 mg/kg (IV-LPS20 group); (3) intratracheal instillation with LPS of 10mg/kg (IT-LPS10 group) or 20mg/kg (IT-LPS20 group). Each of the model groups had a sham group. 7-day survival rates of each group were observed (n=15 for each group). Moreover, three time points were set for additional experimental studying in each model group: 4 hours, 24 hours and 48 hours after modeling (every time point, n=8 for each group). Rats were sacrificed to collect BALF and lung tissue samples at different time points for detection of IL-6, TNF-alpha, total protein concentration in BALF and MPO activity, HMGB1 protein expression in lung tissues, as well as the histopathological changes of lung tissues. More than 50 % of the rats died within 7 days in each model group, except for the IT-LPS10 group. In contrast, the mortality rates in the two IV-LPS groups as well as the IT-LPS20 group were significantly higher than that in IT-LPS10 group. Rats received LPS by intratracheal instillation exhibited evident histopathological changes and inflammatory exudation in the lung, but there was no evidence of lung injury in CLP and IV-LPS groups. Rat model of intratracheal instillation with LPS proved to be a more stable and reproducible animal model to cause sepsis-associated ALI than the extrapulmonary models of sepsis.

A Large Acute Gastroenteritis Outbreak Associated with Both Campylobacter coli and Human Sapovirus - Beijing Municipality, China, 2021

What is already known about this topic?

Campylobacter is a significant foodborne pathogen that leads to global outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) usually affecting less than 30 individuals. Human sapovirus (HuSaV) is an enteric virus responsible for sporadic cases and outbreaks of AGE worldwide. In a study conducted in Beijing, HuSaV detection ranked second after norovirus.

What is added by this report?

We present a discussion of the first large-scale outbreak of AGE caused by both Campylobacter coli (C. coli) and HuSaV. The outbreak involved a total of 996 patients and exhibited two distinct peaks over a period of 17 days. Through case-control studies, we identified exposure to raw water from a secondary water supply system as a significant risk factor. Among 83 patients, 49 samples tested positive for C. coli, 39 samples tested positive for HuSaV, and 27 samples tested positive for both pathogens using real-time polymerase chain reaction detection. Furthermore, whole-genome sequencing of 17 C. coli isolates obtained from 17 patients revealed that all isolates belonged to a highly clonal strain of C. coli.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Outbreaks of AGE resulting from multiple pathogen infections warrant increased attention. This report emphasizes the significance of ensuring the safety of drinking water, particularly in secondary supply systems.

Genomic diversity and taxonomic marker for Arcobacter species

Arcobacter was recognized as an emerging enteropathogen and controversies regarding its classification persisted. This study aimed to reevaluate the taxonomy of Arcobacter utilizing the 16S rRNA gene, 23S rRNA gene, single-copy orthologous genes, as well as genomic indices such as Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) and in silico DNA-DNA hybridization (isDDH). The taxonomy of this genus was reevaluated in this study using multiple indices with a dataset of 371 genomes comprising 34 known species and 14 potentially new species. Good discrimination could be achieved only in some species but not for the species with higher sequence similarity using the comparisons of the 16S rRNA gene and 23S rRNA gene sequences. A high-accuracy phylogenomic approach for Arcobacter was established using 84 single-copy orthologous genes obtained through various bioinformatics methods. One marker gene (gene711), which was found to possess the same distinguishing ability as ANI, isDDH, and single-copy orthologous methods, was identified as a reliable locus for inferring the phylogeny of the genus. The effective species classification was achieved by employing gene711 with a sequence similarity exceeding 96%, even for species like A. cloacae, A. lanthieri, and A. skirrowii, which exhibited ambiguous classification using ANI and isDDH. Additionally, excellent subspecies categorizing among A. cryaerophilus could be distinguished using gene711. In conclusion, this framework strategy had the potential advantage of developing rapid species identification, particularly for highly variable species, providing a novel insight into the behavior and characteristics of Arcobacter.

Helicobacter zhangjianzhongii sp. nov., isolated from dog feces

In 2019, two distinct bacterial isolates were independently isolated from the fecal samples of separate dogs in Beijing, China. These cells exhibit microaerobic, are Gram-negative, motile, and possess a characteristic spiral shape with bipolar single flagellum. They display positive results for the oxidase test while being negative for both catalase and urease. These organisms measure approximately 0.2-0.3 μm in width and 4.5-6 μm in length. The colonies are wet, flat, grey, circular, and smooth with sizes ranging from 1 to 2 mm in diameter after 2 days of growth. However, strains may exhibit variations in size and morphology following extended incubation. Phylogenetic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene and core genome indicated that these two isolates belong to the genus Helicobacter and formed a robust clade that was remains distinctly separate from currently recognized species. These two isolates shared low dDDH relatedness and ANI values with their closest species Helicobacter canis CCUG 32756T, with these values falling below the commonly cutoff values for strains of the same species. The genomic DNA G + C contents of strain XJK30-2 were 44.93 mol%. Comparing the phenotypic and phylogenetic features between these two isolates and their closely related species, XJK30-2 represents a novel species within the genus Helicobacter, for which the name Helicobacter zhangjianzhongii sp. nov. (Type strain XJK30-2T = GDMCC 1.3695T) is proposed.

Phenotypic and Genomic Characteristics of Campylobacter gastrosuis sp. nov. Isolated from the Stomachs of Pigs in Beijing

Campylobacter is among the four main causes of gastroenteritis worldwide. Most reported Campylobacter infections are caused by C. jejuni and C. coli. However, other emerging Campylobacter pathogens have been recognized as important pathogens in humans and animals. A novel bacterial strain, PS10T, was isolated from the gastric mucous of pigs in 2022 in Beijing, China. The cell was Gram-negative, microaerobic, motile, and negative for catalase, oxidase, and urease. Phylogenetic and phylogenomic analyses based on the 16S rRNA gene and core genome indicated that this isolate belongs to the genus Campylobacter. There were low dDDH relatedness and ANI values shared within this strain and its closest species C. mucosalis below the cut-off values generally recognized for isolates of the same species. The draft genome size of PS10T is 2,240,910 bp in length with a percentage of DNA G+C contents of 37.72%. Comparing the phenotypic and phylogenetic features among this isolate and its related organisms, strain PS10T represents a novel species within the genus Campylobacter, for which the name Campylobacter gastrosuis sp. nov. (Type strain PS10T = GDMCC 1.3686T = JCM 35849T) is proposed.

Prevalence, genomic characterization and antimicrobial resistance of Campylobacter spp. isolates in pets in Shenzhen, China

The prevalence of Campylobacter spp.in pets is a potential concern for human health. However, little is known about the pet-related Campylobacter spp. in China. A total of 325 fecal samples were collected from dogs, cats, and pet foxes. Campylobacter spp. were isolated by culture, and MALDI-TOF MS was used to identify 110 Campylobacter spp. isolates in total. C. upsaliensis (30.2%, 98/325), C. helveticus (2.5%, 8/325), and C. jejuni (1.2%, 4/325) were the three found species. In dogs and cats, the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. was 35.0% and 30.1%, respectively. A panel of 11 antimicrobials was used to evaluate the antimicrobial susceptibility by the agar dilution method. Among C. upsaliensis isolates, ciprofloxacin had the highest rate of resistance (94.9%), followed by nalidixic acid (77.6%) and streptomycin (60.2%). Multidrug resistance (MDR) was found in 55.1% (54/98) of the C. upsaliensis isolates. Moreover, 100 isolates, including 88 C. upsaliensis, 8 C. helveticus, and 4 C. jejuni, had their whole genomes sequenced. By blasting the sequence against the VFDB database, virulence factors were identified. In total, 100% of C. upsaliensis isolates carried the cadF, porA, pebA, cdtA, cdtB, and cdtC genes. The flaA gene was present in only 13.6% (12/88) of the isolates, while the flaB gene was absent. By analyzing the sequence against the CARD database, we found that 89.8% (79/88) of C. upsaliensis isolates had antibiotic target alteration in the gyrA gene conferring resistance to fluoroquinolone, 36.4% (32/88) had the aminoglycoside resistance gene, and 19.3% (17/88) had the tetracycline resistance gene. The phylogenetic analysis using the K-mer tree method obtained two major clades among the C. upsaliensis isolates. All eight isolates in subclade 1 possessed the gyrA gene mutation, the aminoglycoside and tetracycline resistance genes, and were phenotypically resistant to six classes of antimicrobials. It has been established that pets are a significant source of Campylobacter spp. strains and a reservoir for them. This study is the first to have documented the presence of Campylobacter spp. in pets in Shenzhen, China. In this study, C. upsaliensis of subclade 1 required additional attention due to its broad MDR phenotype and relatively high flaA gene prevalence.

Isolation and Genomic Characteristics of Cat-Borne Campylobacter felis sp. nov. and Sheep-Borne Campylobacter ovis sp. nov

Nine novel bacterial strains were isolated from the feces of cats and sheep in 2019 and 2020 in Beijing, China. Cells were 1-3 μm long and ≤0.5 μm wide, Gram-stain negative, microaerobic, motile, oxidase positive, and urease negative. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that these nine isolates belong to the genus Campylobacter but formed two robust clades that were clearly separate from the currently recognized species and, respectively, isolated from the cat and sheep. Both these strains shared low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, dDDH relatedness, and ANI values with their closest species C. upsaliensis CCUG 14913^T and C. lanienae NCTC 13004^T, and against each other, which are below the cut-off values generally recognized for isolates of the same species. The genomic DNA G + C contents of type strains XJK22-1^T and SYS25-1^T were 34.99 mol% and 32.43 mol%, respectively. Electron microscopy showed that these cells were spiral shaped, with bipolar single flagella. Based on results from genotypic, phenotypic, phylogenetic, and phylogenomic analyses, these nine strains represent two novel species within the genus Campylobacter, for which the names Campylobacter felis sp. nov. (Type strain XJK22-1^T = GDMCC 1.3684^T = JCM 35847^T) and Campylobacter ovis sp. nov. (Type strain SYS25-1^T = GDMCC 1.3685^T) are proposed.

Genetic polymorphisms in MIR1208 and MIR5708 are associated with susceptibility to COPD in the Chinese population

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex disease characterized by limited airflow and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of gene polymorphisms in MIR5708 and MIR1208 on COPD risk.

METHODS

Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MIR5708 (rs6473227 and rs16907751) and MIR1208 (rs2608029 and rs13280095) were selected and genotyped among 315 COPD patients and 314 healthy controls using the Agena MassARRAY platform. SPSS 18.0 was used for statistical analysis and data processing. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the association between genetic variants of MIR1208 and MIR5708 and COPD risk.

RESULTS

The results suggested that rs16907751 variants in MIR5708 contributed to an increased susceptibility to COPD in the allelic (P = 0.001), co-dominant (homozygous) (P = 0.001), dominant (P = 0.017), recessive (P = 0.002), and additive (P = 0.002) models. The effects of MIR5708 and MIR1208 gene polymorphisms on the risk of COPD were age-, sex-, smoking status-, and BMI-related. Furthermore, the C-A and G-A haplotypes of rs2608029 and rs13280095 in MIR1208 were identified as risk factors for COPD in the population over 70 years (P = 0.029) and in women (P = 0.049), respectively. Finally, significant associations between rs16907751genotypes with pulse rate and forced expiratory volume in 1 s were found among COPD patients.

CONCLUSION

Genetic polymorphisms in MIR5708 and MIR1208 are associated with increased risk of COPD in China.

Genetic characteristics, antimicrobial resistance, and prevalence of Arcobacter spp. isolated from various sources in Shenzhen, China

Arcobacter spp. is a globally emerging zoonotic and foodborne pathogen. However, little is known about its prevalence and antimicrobial resistance in China. To investigate the prevalence of Arcobacter spp. isolated from various sources, 396 samples were collected from human feces, chicken cecum, and food specimens including chicken meat, beef, pork, lettuce, and seafood. Arcobacter spp. was isolated by the membrane filtration method. For 92 strains, the agar dilution method and next-generation sequencing were used to investigate their antimicrobial resistance and to obtain whole genome data, respectively. The virulence factor database (VFDB) was queried to identify virulence genes. ResFinder and the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD) were used to predict resistance genes. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using the maximum likelihood (ML) method with core single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We found that 27.5% of the samples (n = 109) were positive for Arcobacter spp., comprising Arcobacter butzleri (53.0%), Arcobacter cryaerophilus (39.6%), and Arcobacter skirrowii (7.4%). Chicken meat had the highest prevalence (81.2%), followed by seafood (51.9%), pork (43.3%), beef (36.7%), lettuce (35.5%), chicken cecum (8%), and human fecal samples (0%, 0/159). Antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed that 51 A. butzleri and 40 A. cryaerophilus strains were resistant to streptomycin (98.1, 70%), clindamycin (94.1, 90%), tetracycline (64.7, 52.5%), azithromycin (43.1%, 15%), nalidixic acid (33.4, 35%), and ciprofloxacin (31.3, 35%) but were susceptible to erythromycin, gentamicin, chloramphenicol, telithromycin, and clindamycin (≤10%). A. skirrowii was sensitive to all experimental antibiotics. The virulence factors tlyA, mviN, cj1349, ciaB, and pldA were carried by all Arcobacter spp. strains at 100%, and the following percentages were cadF (95.7%), iroE (23.9%), hecB (2.2%), hecA, and irgA (1.1%). Only one A. butzleri strain (F061-2G) carried a macrolide resistance gene (ereA). One A. butzleri and one A. cryaerophilus harbored resistance island gene clusters, which were isolated from pork and chicken. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed that A. butzleri, A. cryaerophilus, and A. skirrowii were separated from each other. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the isolation of Arcobacter spp. from vegetables and seafood in China. The resistance island gene cluster found in pork and chicken meat and the presence of virulence factors could be a potential risk to human health.

Species classification and novel plasmid identifications in Arcobacter cryaerophilus and Arcobacter cryaerophilus-like organisms

The Arcobacter is a globally emerging foodborne and zoonotic pathogen that can cause diarrhea in humans. It is relatively homogenous and clearly distinguishes the group from other Epsilonproteobacteria. Arcobacter cryaerophilus (A. cryaerophilus) is a heterogeneous species and little is known about its genomic characterization in China. This study aims to determine the genetic and plasmid features of A. cryaerophilus based on whole-genome sequence (WGS). Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) and in silico DNA–DNA hybridization (isDDH) were used for the species classification for 90 initially identified A. cryaerophilus strains. One complete genome and 42 draft genomes were obtained by whole genome sequencing. The genomic characteristics were determined using various bioinformatics software. The genomes of the strains examined were estimated to vary from 1.81 to 2.28 Mb in length, with a G + C content of around 27%. ANI and isDDH results indicated that 90 initially identified A. cryaerophilus strains should be reclassified into four new species (ANI > 96% or isDDH > 70%). Two clades (four subclades) were identified among 90 genomes with the phylogenetic analysis. The phylogenetic tree indicated these 90 genomes exhibited a high intra-species genomic diversity. No clustering was assorted with the host or geographic location among these genomes. Aminoglycoside resistance genes, such as aph(2’’)-Ih, AAC(6’)-Ie-APH(2’’)-Ia, aac(6’)-IIa, ant(6), and streptothricin resistance gene SAT-4 were detected in the chromosomes from a third of the Chinese strains. Virulence-related genes were identified in all the sequenced strains. A novel large multiple drug-resistant plasmid (named pCNAC48 with 161,992 bp in length) was identified in strain ICDCAC48. Two antibiotic-resistance islands were found in the plasmid with lengths of 7,950 and 25,137 bp and G + C content of 38.23 and 32.39%, respectively. The drug resistance genes and some transposable elements were cross-distributed among the islands in the plasmid. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests indicated these resistance genes in the plasmid were functional. Plasmid conjugation and curing experiments proved pCNAC48 was stable in strain ICDCAC48. It was the first identified multiple drug resistance plasmid in A. cryaerophilus-like.

[A multicenter cross-sectional study of quality of life and nonsurgical treatment in patients with knee osteoarthritis]

Objective: To explore the influencing factors of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with knee osteoarthritis, and to analyze the non-surgical treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Methods: Demographic variables, treatment modalities, imaging data, and 12-item short form health survey (SF-12) scores of patients with knee osteoarthritis in orthopedic outpatient departments of five hospitals in Beijing from December 2017 to November 2018 were collected to analyze influencing factors of HRQoL and non-surgical treatment. Results: A total of 2 034 patients were included. There were 530 males (26.1%) and 1 504 females (73.9%), with a mean age of (59.17±10.22) years. In terms of physical quality of life, female patients with knee osteoarthritis had lower physical components summary (PCS) compared with male patients (β=-0.521, P=0.036); patients aged ≥64 years had lower PCS than those aged<55 years (β=-0.636, P=0.026). Patients with an education of more than 12 years had higher PCS than those with less than 10 years (β=1.063, P<0.001). Compared to patients with mild clinical symptoms, the PCS of patients with moderate clinical symptoms was lower (β=-0.860, P=0.002), while the PCS of those with severe clinical symptoms was much lower (β=-1.126, P<0.001). Patients treated with combination therapy had higher PCS than untreated patients (β=0.731, P=0.005). In terms of mental quality of life, compared to patients engaged in sedentary work, the mental components summary (MCS) of patients engaged in mild manual labor jobs was lower (β=-0.712, P=0.015); Compared to patients with a Charson comorbidity index of 0, patients with a Charlson comorbidity index ≥ 2 had lower MCS (β=-1.183, P=0.007). In the past 12 months, 648 (31.9%), 143 (7.0%), 406 (20.0%), 680 (33.4%), 343 (16.9%), 681 (33.5%), 170 (8.4%) patients had used non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, glucosamine/chondroitin formulations, physical therapy, articular cavity puncture injection, traditional Chinese medicine treatment and exercise therapy, respectively. Total of 451 patients (22.2%) received monotherapy and 889 patients (43.7%) received combination therapy. Conclusions: The major non-surgical treatment methods for patients with knee osteoarthritis in Beijing are NSAIDs, physiotherapy and traditional Chinese medicine. Combination therapy is used more frequently than monotherapy. Physical quality of life is related to gender, age, education, severity of symptoms and treatment, while mental quality of life is related to occupational labor and comorbidities.

Retraction notice: Effect of educational interventions on health in childhood: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials [Public Health Volume 164, November 2018, Pages 134-147]

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). The article is a duplicate of a paper that has already been published in Medicine, 97 (2018) e11849 https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000011849. Redundant publications overweigh the relative importance of published findings and distort the academic record of the authors. One of the conditions of submission of a paper for publication is therefore that authors declare explicitly that the paper has not been previously published and is not under consideration for publication elsewhere. As such this article represents a misuse of the scientific publishing system. The scientific community takes a very strong view on this matter and apologies are offered to readers of the journal that this was not detected during the submission process.

Characterization of genetic fundamentals for piglet mortality at birth in Yorkshire, Landrace, and Duroc sows

Piglet mortality is an economically important complex trait that impacts sow prolificacy. Genetic analyses for piglet mortality at weaning have been reported in dozens of studies, but not for piglet mortality at birth. In this study, we used multi-breed data sets from Yorkshire, Landrace, and Duroc sows to characterize the genetic fundamentals of piglet mortality at birth. The heritabilities from parity I to III were estimated to be 0.0630, 0.1031, and 0.1140 respectively. By using a combined strategy, a total of 21 SNPs were detected in three parities, of which six were observed in parity I, five in parity II and 10 in parity III. Genome annotation revealed that these SNPs were harbored within or close to 19 candidate genes. The candidate genes were found to associate with the reproductive system and embryonic development in the tissue expression database, which are reasonably related to piglet mortality. These findings are expected to provide much information for understanding the genetic and genomic fundamentals of farrowing mortality.

A comparison of meat composition, tenderness and the fatty acid profile of three muscles from Holstein-Friesian bulls from production system resulting in final ages of either <16 or 19 months

Context The increased number of male dairy origin calves in Ireland due to the abolition of European Union milk quotas is a potential resource for the beef industry. Rearing these animals as bulls rather than steers is more efficient from a production perspective. Ensuring satisfactory quality of bull beef from dairy origin is essential. Aim To determine the effect of two production systems and three muscle types on physico-chemical characteristics and fatty acid (FA) profile of beef from Holstein-Friesian (HF) bulls. Methods Thirty HF bulls were equally assigned to two production systems, namely, slaughter at under 16 months of age or slaughter at 19 months of age. Longissimus thoracis (LT), Semitendinosus (ST) and Gluteus medius (GM) muscles were excised post-slaughter for determination of pH, colour, Warner–Bratzler (WB) variables, cook loss, chemical composition [intramuscular fat (IMF), moisture, protein, ash], collagen characteristics and FA profile. Results WB variables and cook loss after 14 days postmortem ageing, and insoluble and total collagen contents were higher, while IMF content, redness and saturation at 24 h post-blooming were lower for muscles from the 19-month production system. Muscles from the under 16-month production system had a higher saturated fatty acid (SFA) proportion and n-6:n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratio, while muscle from the 19-month production system had a higher PUFA proportion, n-3 PUFA proportion and PUFA:SFA ratio. The GM muscle had the lowest L* value, followed by LT and ST. Yellowness, saturation and hue angle were greater in ST. LT had lower WB variables, cook loss, moisture, and a higher IMF content than ST and GM. The PUFA proportion and PUFA:SFA ratio were highest in ST, followed by GM and LT. IMF, total FA, SFA and monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) concentrations were higher in LT from the under 16-month production system bulls (the interaction). Conclusions Beef from the under 16-month production system compared with beef from the 19-month production system, and LT compared with ST and GM muscles had better quality characteristics. Implications Dairy bulls can produce beef of acceptable quality. The findings will guide selection of the combination of production system and muscle type most appropriate to specific market requirements.

The Siberian pine growth dynamics in Altai Mountains, China

Climatic factors play an essential role in the growth of tree ring width. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the correlation between climatic variables and tree-ring growth characteristics of Pinus sibirica in Altai mountains, northwestern China. This study being is first of its kind on climate growth analysis of Pinus sibirica in northwestern China. The study showed great potential to understand the species growing under the specific climatic conditions. Total of 70 tree cores collected from three sites in the sampling area, out of which 63 tree cores considered for this study. The effect of climatic variables which was studied include precipitation, temperature and PDSI. Our results showed that Tree Ring Width chronology has a significantly positive correlation with the late winter (March) temperature and significant negative correlation with the July temperatures. A significant correlation was observed with the late summer precipitation whereas no significant relation found with the Palmer Drought Severity Index. These significant correlations with temperature and precipitation suggested that this tree species had the potential for the reconstruction of the past climate in the area.

Era-like GTP protein gene expression in rice

The mutations are genetic changes in the genome sequences and have a significant role in biotechnology, genetics, and molecular biology even to find out the genome sequences of a cell DNA along with the viral RNA sequencing. The mutations are the alterations in DNA that may be natural or spontaneous and induced due to biochemical reactions or radiations which damage cell DNA. There is another cause of mutations which is known as transposons or jumping genes which can change their position in the genome during meiosis or DNA replication. The transposable elements can induce by self in the genome due to cellular and molecular mechanisms including hypermutation which caused the localization of transposable elements to move within the genome. The use of induced mutations for studying the mutagenesis in crop plants is very common as well as a promising method for screening crop plants with new and enhanced traits for the improvement of yield and production. The utilization of insertional mutations through transposons or jumping genes usually generates stable mutant alleles which are mostly tagged for the presence or absence of jumping genes or transposable elements. The transposable elements may be used for the identification of mutated genes in crop plants and even for the stable insertion of transposable elements in mutated crop plants. The guanine nucleotide-binding (GTP) proteins have an important role in inducing tolerance in rice plants to combat abiotic stress conditions.

Comparative genomics of Helicobacter pullorum from different countries

BACKGROUND

Helicobacter pullorum commonly colonized in the gastrointestinal tract of poultry and caused gastroenteritis. This bacterium could be transmitted to humans through contaminated food and caused colitis and hepatitis. Currently, the genetic characteristics of the H. pullorum were not recognized enough. In this study, the genomes of 23 H. pullorum strains from different counties were comparatively analyzed. Among them, H. pullorum 2013BJHL was the first isolated and reported in China.

RESULTS

The genomes of the studied strains were estimated to vary from 1.55 to 2.03 Mb, with a GC content of ~ 34%. 4064 pan genes and 1267 core genes were obtained from the core-pan genome analysis using the Roary pipeline. Core genome SNPs (cg-SNPs) were obtained using Snippy4 software. Two groups were identified with the phylogenetic analysis based on the cg-SNPs. Some adhesion-related, immune regulation, motility-related, antiphagocytosis-related, toxin-related and quorum sensing related genes were identified as virulence factors. APH(3')-IIIa, APH(2'')-If, and AAC(6')-Ie-APH(2'')-Ia were identified as antibiotic resistance genes among the H. pullorum genomes. cat, SAT-4 and tetO genes were only identified in 2013BJHL, and tet(C) was identified in MIT98-5489. MIC determination revealed that the 2013BJHL showed acquired resistance to ciprofloxacin, nalidixic acid, tetracycline, gentamicin, streptomycin and erythromycin, only sensitive to ampicillin. The antibiotic resistance genetic determinants on the 2013BJHL genome correlate well with observed antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. Two types of VI secretion system (T6SS) were identified in 52.2% (12/23) the studied strains.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we obtained the genetic characteristics of H. pullorum from different sources in the world. The comprehensive genetic characteristics of H. pullorum were first described. H. pullorum showed highly genetic diversity and two sub-types of T6SSs were first identified in H. pullorum. 2013BJHL was found to be multidrug resistant as it was resistant to at least three different antibiotic classes.

Outcomes following emergency colorectal cancer presentation in the elderly

AIM

Colorectal cancer is predominantly a disease of the elderly and up to 30% of these patients will present as an emergency. We compared the outcomes of 'elderly' patients presenting to our unit with a colorectal cancer emergency over a 10-year period with those of a 'younger' cohort.

METHODS

A single centre retrospective review of colorectal cancer emergencies between 1 April 2007 and 1 April 2017 was performed. Patients were separated into two cohorts: 'young' (< 75 years) and 'elderly' (≥ 75 years). Data collected included demographics, disease status, treatment and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 341 patients (< 75 years: n = 154; ≥ 75 years: n = 187) presented as a colorectal cancer emergency. Significantly fewer 'elderly' patients underwent curative surgical procedures (72% vs 49%, P < 0.0001) or received adjuvant chemotherapy (56% vs 21%, P < 0.0001). 'Elderly' patients had significantly more postoperative cardio-respiratory complications (7% vs 36%, P < 0.0001), but despite this there was no significant difference in 30-day mortality (7% vs 12%) and survival rates at 1 year (75% vs 74%) or 3 years (56% vs 49%). Elderly patients treated with best supportive care had a median overall survival of just 62 (range 1-955) days.

CONCLUSION

Patients ≥ 75 years presenting as a colorectal cancer emergency were significantly less likely to undergo emergency curative surgery or receive adjuvant chemotherapy than those < 75 years. However, the 30-day mortality, 1- and 3-year survival rates for patients undergoing curative surgery were comparable.

Obesity prevalence and risks among Chinese adults: findings from China PEACE Million Persons Project, 2014–2018

Background

With demographic and epidemiologic transitions, China has become home to the greatest number of obese individuals in the world. Effective policy intervention requires a contemporary assessment of obesity across broad socio-demographic subgroups.

Purpose

We aim to assess the prevalence of overall and abdominal obesity by socio-demographic characteristics and the associations of these characteristics with obesity in China.

Methods

Using the data of 2.7-million community-dwelling participants aged 35–75 years in the China PEACE Million Persons Project, a nationwide cross-sectional screening project from 2014 to 2018, we calculated the prevalence of overall and abdominal obesity based on national guideline definitions (body mass index ≥28 kg/m2, waist circumference ≥85/90 cm for women/men). We examined 12 available socio-demographic variables that are potentially associated with obesity, in addition to self-reported co-morbidities, and quantified the associations of these socio-demographic characteristics with obesity using multivariable mixed models.

Results

The prevalence of overall and abdominal obesity were 15.8% and 37.6% in women and 15.0% and 36.3% in men (Figure). Compared to individuals with normal weight, those with overall obesity had a higher prevalence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes (in women: by 30.4, 16.1, and 6.0 percent points; in men, by 29.9, 31.2, and 5.8 percent points). A similar pattern was observed with abdominal obesity. In women, those aged 55–64 years constituted the largest age group with overall and abdominal obesity (33.7% and 35.0%), while in men, those aged 45–54 and 55–64 years constituted the largest age group with overall obesity (30.4%) and abdominal obesity (30.5%), respectively. Older women were at substantially higher risk for obesity (e.g., adjusted relative risk [95% CI] of women aged 65–75 vs. 35–44 years: 1.29 [1.27–1.31] for overall obesity and 1.76 [1.74–1.77] for abdominal obesity) while older men were not. Higher education was associated with lower risk in women (e.g., those with college or university education vs. less than primary school: 0.47 [0.46–0.48] for overall obesity and 0.61 [0.60–0.62] for abdominal obesity) but higher risk in men (1.07 [1.05–1.10] and 1.17 [1.16–1.19]). In both women and men, current smoking was associated with lower risk for obesity, and current drinking was associated with higher risk, but the magnitude of associations was smaller in women than men.

Conclusions

In China, over one in seven individuals meet criteria for overall obesity, and one in three for abdominal obesity. Wide variation exists across socio-demographic subgroups. The associations of age and education with obesity are significant and differ by sex. Understanding obesity in contemporary China has broad domestic policy implications and provides a valuable international reference.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): The National Key Research and Development Program from the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Science

Recent progress on the Chinese space programme and radiation research

Manned space exploration was initiated in China in 1992, and substantial progress has been made. The next step is to build the Chinese Space Station (CSS), which is planned to be launched in 2020. The CSS will provide an on-orbit laboratory for experimental studies including space radiation research. The health risk of space radiation, especially carcinogenesis, is a major concern for long-term space exploration. Establishing a risk assessment system suitable for Chinese astronauts and developing effective countermeasures are major tasks for Chinese space radiobiologists. The Institute of Space Life Sciences, Soochow University has focused on these topics for years. We established cancer models with low-dose-rate exposure of alpha particles, and elucidated a microRNA-TGFβ network regulating bystander effects and a lncRNA-cytoskeleton network regulating genomic instability induced by ionising radiation. We also confirmed the radioresistance of quiescent cells, which inspires a potential strategy to improve individual radioresistance during long-term space travel. However, we believe that a multi-disciplinary strategy must be developed to protect astronauts from highly energised space radiation.

Gastroenteritis Outbreak Caused by Campylobacter jejuni - Beijing, China, August, 2019

What is already known about this topic?

Campylobacter genus bacteria are recognized as some of the leading causes of the bacterial diarrheal illness in both developing and developed countries. Recent pilot surveillance study revealed Campylobacter is the most common pathogen in the diarrheal cases using the enhanced filtration methods in Beijing. One outbreak caused by multi-drug resistant Campylobacter coli ( C. coli ) was identified in 2018.

What is added by this report?

This is the first identified gastroenteritis outbreak caused by local Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) infection in Beijing. A total of 14 patients were identified from August 23 to 26, 2019. The epidemiological investigation indicated that all of the patients worked at the same factory and the diarrhea happened after the same meal supplied from one company which service the meal delivery. Fourteen C. jejuni isolates were obtained from 12 patients and 2 food workers. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) analysis indicated this outbreak was caused by one highly clonal C. jejuni.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Campylobacter is the major foodborne pathogen in the world. Surveillance and risk assessment for Campylobacter infection particularly for Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) associated C. jejuni infection in China should closely monitored.

Functional cell phenotype induction with TGF-β1 and collagen-polyurethane scaffold for annulus fibrosus rupture repair

Appropriate cell sources, bioactive factors and biomaterials for generation of functional and integrated annulus fibrosus (AF) tissue analogues are still an unmet need. In the present study, the AF cell markers, collagen type I, cluster of differentiation 146 (CD146), mohawk (MKX) and smooth muscle protein 22α (SM22α) were found to be suitable indicators of functional AF cell induction. In vitro 2D culture of human AF cells showed that transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) upregulated the expression of the functional AF markers and increased cell contractility, indicating that TGF-β1-pre-treated AF cells were an appropriate cell source for AF tissue regeneration. Furthermore, a tissue engineered construct, composed of polyurethane (PU) scaffold with a TGF-β1-supplemented collagen type I hydrogel and human AF cells, was evaluated with in vitro 3D culture and ex vivo preclinical bioreactor-loaded organ culture models. The collagen type I hydrogel helped maintaining the AF functional phenotype. TGF-β1 supplement within the collagen I hydrogel further promoted cell proliferation and matrix production of AF cells within in vitro 3D culture. In the ex vivo IVD organ culture model with physiologically relevant mechanical loading, TGF-β1 supplement in the transplanted constructs induced the functional AF cell phenotype and enhanced collagen matrix synthesis. In conclusion, TGF-β1-containing collagen-PU constructs can induce the functional cell phenotype of human AF cells in vitro and in situ. This combined cellular, biomaterial and bioactive agent therapy has a great potential for AF tissue regeneration and rupture repair.

Piperine, a functional food alkaloid, exhibits inhibitory potential against TNBS-induced colitis via the inhibition of IκB-α/NF-κB and induces tight junction protein (claudin-1, occludin, and ZO-1) signaling pathway in experimental mice

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic immunoinflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Piperine, an alkaloid, has been reported to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antiulcer potential.

AIM

To elucidate the plausible mechanisms of action of piperine on experimental trinitrobenzenesufonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis by assessing various biochemical, molecular, histological, and ultrastructural modifications.

METHODS

Colitis was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats via intrarectal instillation of TNBS. Then, the rats were treated with piperine (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days.

RESULTS

TNBS induced significant (p < 0.05) colonic damage, which was assessed by disease activity index, macroscopic score, and stool consistency. The administration of piperine (20 and 40 mg/kg) significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) these damages. Treatments with piperine (20 and 40 mg/kg) notably inhibited (p < 0.05) the TNBS-induced elevation of oxido-nitrosative stress (superoxide dismutase, glutathione, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide), 5-hydroxytryptamine, and hydroxyproline content in the colon. Furthermore, colonic inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOs), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, interferon-gamma, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) messenger RNA (mRNA) expressions were upregulated after TNBS instillation and piperine (20 and 40 mg/kg) significantly attenuated (p < 0.05) these elevated mRNA expressions. TNBS decreased the expressions of tight junction (TJ) protein (claudin-1, occludin, and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1)) and increased the expressions of proapoptotic (caspase-1) protein. These expressions were markedly inhibited (p < 0.05) by piperine treatment. Histological and ultrastructural studies of transmission electron microscopy suggested that piperine significantly ameliorated (p < 0.05) TNBS-induced colonic aberrations.

CONCLUSION

Piperine ameliorated the progression of TNBS-induced colitis by modulating the nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor-alpha/nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathway, thus inhibiting the overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL's), COX-2, iNOs, oxido-nitrosative stress, and proapoptotic proteins (caspase-1) that may improve the expression of TJ protein (claudin-1, occludin, and ZO-1).

Comparison of Pathogenicity of Invasive and Carried Meningococcal Isolates of ST-4821 Complex in China

Serotype 4821 (ST-4821) clonal complex (cc4821) Neisseria meningitidis strains are divided into two groups (groups I and II) according to the core genome-based phylogenetic analysis. Group I contains the greater number of invasive disease isolates. However, the differences in pathogenicity between the two groups are unclear. In this study, the pathogenicity of cc4821 isolates (n = 28) belonging to group I and group II (each containing eight invasive isolates and six isolates from healthy carriers) was investigated, including adhesion, invasion, and induction of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) release from host cells (Hep2 and A549). The invasive isolates had higher adhesion and invasion capabilities than the carried isolates in both groups. The carried cc4821 isolates in group I had stronger invasion capability than those in group II. Invasive isolates induced more IL-6 and IL-8 secretion than carried isolates in both groups. The carried cc4821 isolates stimulated higher levels of IL-8 in group I than in group II. The isolates were defined as hyperadherent and hypoadherent groups according to their adhesion ability and as hyperinvasive and hypoinvasive groups based on their invasion ability. The hyperadherent and hyperinvasive isolates mediated more IL-6 and IL-8 release than the hypoadherent and hypoinvasive isolates. There was no difference in the level of cytokine release when cc4821 isolates lost their adhesion and invasion capability after lysis. The results revealed that differences in pathogenicity existed between the two groups and that the differences were mainly determined by differences in adhesion and invasion capabilities.

The human imperative of stabilizing global climate change at 1.5°C

Increased concentrations of atmospheric greenhouse gases have led to a global mean surface temperature 1.0°C higher than during the pre-industrial period. We expand on the recent IPCC Special Report on global warming of 1.5°C and review the additional risks associated with higher levels of warming, each having major implications for multiple geographies, climates, and ecosystems. Limiting warming to 1.5°C rather than 2.0°C would be required to maintain substantial proportions of ecosystems and would have clear benefits for human health and economies. These conclusions are relevant for people everywhere, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where the escalation of climate-related risks may prevent the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The human imperative of stabilizing global climate change at 1.5°C

Increased concentrations of atmospheric greenhouse gases have led to a global mean surface temperature 1.0°C higher than during the pre-industrial period. We expand on the recent IPCC Special Report on global warming of 1.5°C and review the additional risks associated with higher levels of warming, each having major implications for multiple geographies, climates, and ecosystems. Limiting warming to 1.5°C rather than 2.0°C would be required to maintain substantial proportions of ecosystems and would have clear benefits for human health and economies. These conclusions are relevant for people everywhere, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where the escalation of climate-related risks may prevent the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.