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A portable sensing platform with excellent performance was constructed using CoNi-MOF-based chitosan-polyacrylamide hydrogel as a signal amplifier for the detection of adrenaline. [Display omitted] The development of a portable smartphone-based electrochemical sensor for analyzing adrenaline levels in real samples can make a great contribution to the research community worldwide. In order to achieve this goal, the key challenge is to build sensing interfaces with excellent electrocatalytic properties. In this work, microspherical bimetallic metal–organic frameworks (CoNi-MOF) consisting of nanoclusters were first synthesized using a hydrothermal method. On this basis, the catalytic activity of pure chitosan-polyacrylamide hydrogel (CS-PAM) was modulated by adding different amounts of CoNi-MOF during the in-situ synthesis of CS-PAM. Finally, a portable electrochemical detection system based on CS-PAM was established for the detection of adrenaline. A series of resulting composite hydrogels with a large specific surface area, abundant active sites, and unique network structure facilitate the enrichment and catalysis of adrenaline molecules. Under optimal conditions, the analytical platform constructed by using CoNi-MOF-based CS-PAM has the advantages of a wide detection range (0.5–10 and 10–2500 μM), a low detection limit (0.167 μM), and high sensitivity (0.182 and 0.133 μA·μM·cm−2). In addition, the sensor maintains selective detection of the target in the presence of many different types of interferences, and the current response is not significantly reduced even after 60 cycles of testing. We strongly believe that the designed smart portable sensing can realize the accurate determination of adrenaline in complex systems, and this study can provide new ideas for the research of MOFs-based hydrogels in electrochemical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a polyphenol-mediated modulation (PMM) strategy for the controllable assembly of hollow hybrid nanomaterials (HZIF-8/PcFe and HZIF-8@PcFe) with different TA (tannic acid) coating thicknesses to detect dopamine, which exhibit excellent linearity range (0.3–200 μmol/L) with a detection limit as low as 0.1 μmol/L (S/N = 3). [Display omitted] Multiple microenvironmental modulation of zeolite imidazole framework-8 (ZIF-8) is expected to solve the long-term intractable problem of low sensitivity in electrochemical sensing. Herein, the metal phthalocyanines with different central ions (PcM, M = Fe, Co, Ni and Cu) were introduced into ZIF-8 by in-situ synthesis method. Then, the hollow composite nanomaterials, HZIF-8/PcFe and HZIF-8@PcFe (HZIF-8, i.e., hollow ZIF-8) with different TA (tannic acid) coating thicknesses (∼11 nm and ∼33 nm) were successfully fabricated by carefully designed polyphenol-mediated modulation (PMM) strategy. Next, the HZIF-8@PcFe electrochemical sensor was constructed for selective and sensitive analysis by selecting dopamine (DA) as the analyte. The TA coating (superhydrophilic state), PcFe (redox properties) and hollow MOF cavity (faster mass transfer) was used as the triple microenvironment modulation of ZIF-8 to enhance the electrocatalytic performance. Under the optimum conditions (pH = 8.0), the linear correlations of 0.3 to 200 μmol/L was obtained for the peak current response, with a detection limit of 0.1 μmol/L (S/N = 3, i.e., Signal/Noise = 3). Meanwhile, the HZIF-8@PcFe electrochemical sensor exhibited excellent interference selectivity, reproducibility and stability, which enabled it to detect low abundance DA in real samples. And the F-test (homogeneity test of variance) and t -test (student's t test) statistical analyses were employed to enhance the accuracy of the actual samples' detection. This work will enlighten researchers working in the field of porous framework composites and open up new paths for the development of hollow MOFs hybrid materials in electrochemical sensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virulent Listeria monocytogenes is responsible for listeriosis, a highly fatal foodborne illness that impairs human health. One of the major causes of its pathogenicity is the carriage of virulence factor, listeriolysin O, encoded by hylA gene. Herein, the specificity and conservativity of hylA gene sequences were analyzed, with most conservative region selected. Then, a crossing priming amplification (CPA) assay targeting hylA conservative region was established under an isothermal condition (63 °C) to identify virulent L. monocytogenes within 60 min. Forty-four reference strains including two standard L. monocytogenes strains and forty-two strains of other species were selected to assess sensitivity and specificity. The CPA assay showed strong specificity and sensitivity (genomic DNA at 5.66 pg/μL). The practicality of the CPA assay was further confirmed in four artificially contaminated rice-flour products with limit of detection at 104 CFU/mL. In addition, a PMA-CPA assay was developed to direct detect L. monocytogenes viable cells with rice-flour products as a model system. In conclusion, the developed CPA method has advantages of high sensitivity, specificity and quick measurement in the detection of virulent L. monocytogenes , showing considerably feasible promise for future food safety. • Upon in-depth bioinformatics analysis, specificity and conservativity of hylA were determined. • CPA assay targeting hylA conserved region and producing detectable color change was established. • CPA assay identified virulent L. monocytogenes with high sensitivity and specificity. • The CPA assay was applicable in food samples to detect virulent L. monocytogenes. • A PMA-CPA assay was developed to direct detect L. monocytogenes viable cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast cancer is a leading cause of tumor-related death among women around the world, but its pathogenesis is still unclear. Transmembrane protein 189 (TMEM189) is widely expressed in many types of tissues and plays a critical role in tumorigenesis partly through mediating cell death. However, its regulatory function on breast cancer progression and particularly the underlying mechanisms have not been fully understood. In the present study, we found that TMEM189 knockdown significantly reduced the proliferation of breast cancer cells, while its over-expression facilitated the proliferative capacity of tumor cells. The effects of TMEM189 to promote breast cancer were validated in the constructed xenograft mouse models. RNA-sequencing studies subsequently showed that TMEM189 deletion was closely associated with ferroptosis signaling pathway, accompanied with elevated lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, cellular ROS production, malondialdehyde (MDA) and the intracellular iron releases. However, GSH levels in breast cancer cells were highly impeded upon TMEM189 inhibition. Intriguingly, we found that TMEM189 knockdown-induced ferroptotic cell death was considerably abolished after autophagy inhibitor 3-MA co-treatment, as evidenced by the markedly decreased ROS generation and intracellular iron accumulation. Moreover, TMEM189 ablation strongly up-regulated LC3BII and transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) expression levels in breast cancer cells, whereas down-regulated p62 and GPX4. Importantly, the expression changes of these molecules related to autophagy and ferroptosis were almost diminished in response to 3-MA exposure, along with restored cell proliferation. These findings suggested that TMEM189 could inhibit autophagy to mediate ferroptosis in breast cancer cells. Collectively, all our findings revealed the therapeutic potential of TMEM189 in the treatment of breast cancer. •TMEM189 inhibits breast cancer progression in vitro and in vivo. •TMEM189 dysregulation is associated with ferroptosis in breast cancer cells. •TMEM189 suppression induces ferroptosis in breast cancer cells. •TMEM189-suppressed autophagy mediates ferroptosis in breast cancer cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a predominate cause of microbiological food safety. This study aimed to develop a polymerase spiral reaction (PSR) based assay for rapid and visual detection on V. parahaemolyticus. Firstly, the specificity and conservativity of species-specific target tlh gene were determined. Secondly, targeting tlh and virulence factors tdh and trh , PSR assay was developed and optimized using constructed positive plasmid controls and standard strain. Visualized result determination using fluorescent dye was applied to avoid false positive issues. Thirdly, 44 strains were used for specificity evaluation. Fourthly, pure and mixed species artificial contamination systems were included to test its applicability. In addition, a propidium monoazide (PMA)-PSR assay was set up to determine viable but non-culturable (VBNC) cells. Target tlh gene acquired high specificity and PSR assay was optimized to carry out at 65ᵒC for 1 h. Detection limit of PSR assay in purified genomic DNA, plasmid and artificially contaminated food samples were 5.31–53.1 pg/μL, 100 copies, and 103 CFU/mL, respectively, demonstrating the sensitivity as 100-fold higher than regular PCR. With PMA-PSR assay, VBNC cells were accurately determined without the disruption of dead cells and food compositions. Thus, PSR is applicable in detection of V. parahaemolyticus viable cells and virulence factors. • Targeting tlh , tdh and trh genes, PSR reaction was achieved at constant temperature within 1 h. • Visualized result determination by fluorescent dye was applied to avoid false positive issues. • Detection limit of PSR was 100 copies in pure DNA and 103 CFU/mL in artificially contaminated food. • With PMA treatment prior to PSR, VBNC cells were determined without the disruption of dead cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objectives This study focused on the comparative genomic analyses of two qnrVC6 carrying Pseudomonas spp. strains which might give us insights on the similarity and difference in the genomic contexts of qnrVC6 gene. Methods Comparative genomic analyses of the novel qnrVC6 carrying Pseudomonas spp. genomes with emphasis on their antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors were performed. Results Most Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, Clusters of Orthologous Groups of proteins (COG) categories, and (Gene Ontology) GO terms are shared by both genomes. Although qnrVC6 gene is responsible for the increase of quinolone resistance in both strains, but it duplicated in P. putida strain Guangzhou-Ppu420. And the resistance to β-lactams and aminoglycosides are dependent on different genes. Sharing some adherence, antiphagocytosis, and iron uptake related genes with P. putida strain Guangzhou-Ppu420, P. aeruginosa strain Guangzhou-Pae617 specifically acquires biosurfactant, pigment, protease, regulation, secretion system, and toxin related virulence factors. Conclusions Sharing most KEGG pathways, COG categories, and GO terms, P. putida strain Guangzhou-Ppu420 and P. aeruginosa strain Guangzhou-Pae617 differ in antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors. Highlights • Two Pseudomonas spp. strains differ in antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors. • QnrVC6 is responsible for quinolone resistance in both strains, but it duplicated in P. putida. • The resistance to β-lactams and aminoglycosides are dependent on different genes. • P. aeruginosa specifically acquires some toxin related virulence factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food safety issues caused by food-borne pathogenic microorganisms during low-temperature food storage have attracted broad attention. In the current study, Staphylococcus aureus cells in planktonic and different stages of biofilm formation were inoculated into four types of quick-frozen rice and flour products. The changes in culturable cell number of S. aureus in the artificially contaminated food samples stored at 4 °C and −20 °C were recorded for 60 days. Next, the PMA-qPCR method was used to explore the viable cell number and determine whether low temperature induced S. aureus enter into the viable but non-culturable (VBNC) state. Finally, the expression changes of enterotoxin gene seb in S. aureus were determined by RT-qPCR during food sample storage. Results showed that the culturable cell number of S. aureus was not significantly changed during 60 days except for the decreased culturable cell number in the 8 h biofilm cells in MF stored at −20 °C. In addition, S. aureus cells did not enter into the VBNC state during low temperature storage. Moreover, the seb gene was continuously expressed in most samples although with difference in expression level. The findings provided an alert for the risk of S. aureus contamination in quick-frozen rice and flour products. • S. aureus planktonic and biofilm cells survival was examined in quick-frozen food model. • The persistence of S. aureus in rice and flour products at low temperatures was recorded in 60 days. • Assessed by PMA-qPCR, the VBNC state of S. aureus was formed in quick-frozen food model. • Overall seb gene expression and stable cell numbers posed risk of S. aureus in quick-frozen food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli O157:H7 is a major foodborne pathogen causing food poisoning. Standard detection method for foodborne E. coli is plate counting, which is time consuming and omits VBNC cells. PSR is an isothermal amplification technique identifying trace amount DNA. However, its effectiveness is influenced by residual DNA from dead cells. This study aimed at designing a PMA-PSR system for accurate determination of viable cells of E. coli O157:H7. Firstly, PSR was optimized in fluorescence indicator, betaine concentration and reaction time. The optimized system could successfully identify rfbE, stx1 and stx2 genes within 45 min at 65 °C. Secondly, sensitivity and specificity were tested in pure culture and different food samples. With 100% specificity, PSR could determine DNA amount as low as 1.12 pg/μL. Thirdly, a PMA-PSR system was designed for accurate determination of viable cells. Cells were treated with 5 μg/mL PMA to remove residual DNA from dead cells. Pretreated cells were adapted to PSR, thus viable cells were specifically detected. Fourthly, the system was applied in food samples with VBNC cells. Viable cells could be accurately determined in accordance with regular assay. In conclusion, the PMA-PSR system was an efficient tool for accurate determination of E. coli O157:H7 viable cells. • The optimized PSR system could determine E. coli O157:H7 at 65 °C within 45 min. • PSR results can be determined by naked eye observation on color change. • PMA-PSR acquires high specificity (100%) and sensitivity (1.12 pg/μL). • PMA-PSR detects viable cells avoiding the impact of dead cells and food component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objectives The aim of this study is to understand the surveillance of Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) serotype and genotype which help developing specific vaccine for GBS infection. Methods The GBS serotype was determined by strep-B-Latex rapid agglutination method and multiplex PCR assay based on the differences among serotypes. Alleles and multilocus sequence types (MLST) were determined using the GBS MLST Website. Results Four GBS serotypes (Ia, Ib, III, and V) were identified, with serotype III which was intimately associated with purulent meningitis and sepsis, as the dominance. In EOD cases, sepsis and pneumonia showed dominance, but purulent meningitis was dominant in LOD cases. Also, a new ST-17 like type which might be a clone derive from ST-17 and emerge among neonatal disease cases was identified. Conclusions The prevalence of GBS serotype and genotype and their relation with GBS diseases guide the development of capsular polysaccharide vaccine. Highlights • Four GBS serotypes were identified, with type III intimately associated with purulent meningitis and sepsis, as dominance. • In EOD cases, sepsis and pneumonia showed dominance, but purulent meningitis was dominant in LOD cases. • A new ST-17 like type which might be a clone derive from ST-17 and emerge among neonatal disease cases was identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study aimed at investigating the enzyme activities and ion concentrations in potential pathogen S.cerevisiae upon ultrasonic treatment. Methods The activities of ATPase and antioxidase were identified by ATPase, SOD, and CAT assay kits following the instructions. Extracellular Ca 2+ and K + concentrations were determined in an atomic absorption spectrometer with calcium and potassium hollow-cathode lamps as radiation sources. Results SOD and CAT activities were enhanced by relatively low ultrasonic power at early time points and reduced to lower levels. Total ATPase, Na + /K + -ATPase, and Ca 2+/ Mg 2+ -ATPase activities were reduced by ultrasonic field, with higher reducing rate at stronger ultrasonic power and early time points. In addition, ultrasonic field disturbed the Ca 2+ and K + balances in S.cerevisiae cells. Conclusions Ultrasonic field resulted in the reduce even the lost of S.cerevisiae cell viability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives We previously described the novel qnrVC6 and bla IMP-45 carrying megaplasmid pBM413. This study aimed to investigate the complete genome of multidrug-resistance P. aeruginosa Guangzhou-Pae617, a clinical isolate from the sputum of a patient who was suffering from respiratory disease in Guangzhou, China. Methods The genome was sequenced using Illumina Hiseq 2500 and PacBio RS II sequencers and assembled de novo using HGAP. The genome was automatically and manually annotated. Results The genome of P. aeruginosa Guangzhou-Pae617 is 6,430,493 bp containing 5881 predicted genes with an average G + C content of 66.43%. The genome showed high similarity to two new sequenced P. aeruginosa strains isolated from New York, USA. From the whole genome sequence, we identified a type IV pilin, two large prophages, 15 antibiotic resistant genes, 5 genes involved in the “Infectious diseases” pathways, and 335 virulence factors. Conclusions The antibiotic resistance and virulence factors in the genome of P. aeruginosa strain Guangzhou-Pae617 were identified by complete genomic analysis. It contributes to further study on antibiotic resistance mechanism and clinical control of P. aeruginosa . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the effect of different ultrasound treatment conditions on the inactivation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae with the application of response surface methodology (RSM). Methods Ultrasound treatment were applied on different concentrations of S. cerevisiae cells with different pH, temperature, ultrasound power, irradiating time, and pulse duty ratio. Cell viability was determined by plate counting method. Response surface methodology was used to analyze the correlation among various factors. Results Limited with low ultrasound power, lower pH value slightly improved the ultrasound treatment efficiency. Also, higher nonlethal temperature and ultrasound power, longer irradiation time, and lower pulse duty ratio facilitated the inactivation of S. cerevisiae . Cell concentration had no effect on ultrasound efficiency. Conclusions Ultrasound power played the most important role in the ultrasound irradiation process according to RSM analyses. Information derived from this study may aid in the control of the sublethal injury of S. cerevisiae during ultrasound treatment in food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective The present study aimed at investigating the capability of L. plantarum strain BM-LP14723 to enter into and recover from the viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state and to cause beer spoilage. Methods VBNC state was induced by incubating in beer with subculturing or low temperature treatment. Culturable, total, and viable cells numbers were assessed by MRS agar plate counting, acridine orange direct counting, and Live/Dead BacLight bacterial viability kit, respectively. Organic acids concentrations were measured by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Results VBNC L. plantarum cells were detected after 189 ± 1.9 days low temperature treatment or 29 ± 0.7 subcultures in beer. The VBNC L. plantarum retained spoilage capability. Addition of catalase is an effective method for the recovery of the VBNC L. plantarum cells. Conclusion L. plantarum strain BM-LP14723 is capable of entering into and recovery from the VBNC state and maintained spoilage capability. The current study presented that beer-spoilage L. plantarum can hide both in breweries and during transporting and marketing process and thus lead to beer-spoilage incidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the genetic characteristics of Bacillus thuringiensis strain BM-BT15426. Methods B. thuringiensis strain was identified by sequencing the PCR product (amplifying 16S rRNA gene) using ABI Prism 377 DNA Sequencer. The genome was sequenced using PacBio RS II sequencers and assembled de novo using HGAP. Also, further genome annotation was performed. Results The genome of B. thuringiensis strain BM-BT15426 has a length of 5,246,329 bp and contains 5409 predicted genes with an average G + C content of 35.40%. Three genes were involved in the “Infectious diseases: Amoebiasis” pathway. A total of 21 virulence factors and 9 antibiotic resistant genes were identified. Conclusions The major pathogenic factors of B. thuringiensis strain BM-BT15426 were identified through complete genome sequencing and bioinformatics analyses which contributes to further study on pathogenic mechanism and phenotype of B. thuringiensis . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the spoilage capability of Lactobacillus lindneri during the induction and resuscitation of viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state. Methods L. lindneri strain was identified by sequencing the PCR product (amplifying 16S rRNA gene) using ABI Prism 377 DNA Sequencer. During the VBNC state induction by low temperature storage and beer adaption, total, culturable, and viable cells were assessed by acridine orange direct counting, plate counting, and Live/Dead BacLight bacterial viability kit, respectively. Organic acids and diacetyl concentration were measured by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography and head dpace gas chromatography, respectively. Results VBNC state of L. lindneri was successfully induced by both beer adaption and low temperature storage, and glycerol frozen stock was the optimal way to maintain the VBNC state. Addition of catalase was found to be an effective method for the resuscitation of VBNC L. lindneri cells. Furthermore, spoilage capability remained similar during the induction and resuscitation of VBNC L. lindneri . Conclusions This is the first report of induction by low temperature storage and resuscitation of VBNC L. lindneri strain, as well as the first identification of spoilage capability of VBNC and resuscitated L. lindneri cells. This study indicated that the potential colonization of L. lindneri strain in brewery environment, formation and resuscitation of VBNC state, as well as maintenance in beer spoilage capability, may be an important risk factor for brewery environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important foodborne pathogen and produces a variety of toxins causing serious illnesses. This study aimed at developing a rapid detection assay for MRSA and toxins targeting on two housekeeping genes (mecA and femA) and 5 virulence factors (sea , seb , sec , see and pvl) using the polymerase spiral reaction (PSR), compared with PCR. For naked-eye result inspection, calcein was added and the PSR reaction can be completed at 65ᵒC within 60 min. The PSR assay was subjected to optimization, evaluation, and application in 3 different types of food sample made from rice and flour, designated rice and flour product. The limit of detection of PSR assay for the mecA , femA , sea , seb , sec , see and pvl genes was 4.2 pg/μL, 0.42 pg/μL, 630 pg/μL, 63 pg/μL, 12.3 pg/μL, 1.015 pg/μL and 53 pg/μL, respectively, which was higher than the sensitivity of PCR. In rice and flour products, the detection limit of PSR assay was 104 CFU/mL for mecA , and 103 CFU/mL for femA , sea , seb , sec , see and pvl genes. In conclusion, optimized PSR assay serves as an efficient tool for rapid, cost-effective and accurate testing of MRSA and is suitable for point-of-care detection. • The optimized PSR assay is efficient for rapid detection of MRSA and its toxins (within 65ᵒC for 60 min). • The PSR assay is applied in 3 different food types with high specificity (100%) and sensitivity (10–1000 times > PCR). • By adding calcein, color change from orange to green enables naked-eye inspection, avoiding false positive detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considered to be a potential “superbug”, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been one of the major recent infectious pathogens and thus poses a challenge to hospital infection control. The mobile genetic element staphylococcal chromosomal cassette mec (SCC mec ) carries both the mecA or mecC gene, encoding for a novel specific penicillin-binding protein (PBP2a), and site-specific recombinase genes ccrAB or/and ccrC . In MRSA, the acquisition of SCC mec leads to the resistance to the β-lactam antibiotics. As SCC mec plays a core role in the antimicrobial resistance characteristics, molecular epidemiology and evolution of MRSA, a thorough summary and comprehensive understanding of the prevalence and structural characteristics of SCC mec may aid in global surveillance, implementation and investigation on MRSA isolates, as well as further development of preventive and therapeutic approaches. Consequently, this review is aimed at describing the history, prevalence, types and subtypes, and current typing methods of SCC mec , with the focus on the typical structures of the SCC mec cassette. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate morphological changes and regulatory mechanism of opportunistic pathogen Saccharomyces cerevisiae upon ultrasonic. Ultrasound intensities (0/102.8/288 W, 10 min) were applied on S. cerevisiae (OD 600 = 0.1), with morphology monitored by inverted microscopy, atomic force microscopy, digital holographic microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Under high-power ultrasound (HPUL) treatment (288 W, 10 min), cells maintained chromosomal DNA integrity, with a large proportion of differentially expressed genes identified by RNA-seq. Osmotic pressure was firstly induced to disrupt ATPase and ion homeostasis, then reactive oxygen species and physical and chemical effects during cavitation were generated as key factors to inactivate S. cerevisiae cells. Besides, ergosterol of plasma membrane was changed, improving plasma membrane permeability for H 2 O 2. Accumulation of H 2 O 2 induced activation of stress response. During short-term HPUL, yeast down-regulated ribosome synthesis to prevent accumulation of ultrasound-induced dysfunctional protein. However, loss of protein synthesis caused insufficient protein supplement for growth and stress response during long-term HPUL, leading to cell wall injury. As concluded, HPUL induced stress response and changed cell metabolism of S. cerevisiae , potentially resulting in the failure of deactivation. This study will guide in proper treatment of opportunistic pathogen S. cerevisiae in food processing especially in ultrasonic application. The mechanism of ultrasound on the S. cerevisiae morphology and gene transcription. [Display omitted] • Monitored by IM, AFM, DHM, TEM, HPUL treated yeast cells surround by FS and maintain DNA integrity. • Reactive oxygen species and cavitation induced by HPUL is the first factor to inactivate yeast cells. • Ergosterol of plasma membrane changed by HPUL and accumulation of intracellular H 2 O 2 induce stress responses. • HPUL potentially improve yeast cell metabolism resulting in the failure of its deactivation in food processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The multimodal optical excitation pulsed thermography can enhance the depth-resolution dynamic range for debonding defects of the solid propellant rocket motor. • Multiple feature extraction algorithms were proposed and applied to extract characteristic parameters. • Pulse thermography optimized by PLSR and ICA can achieve better detection of interface debonding defects. We demonstrated the multimodal optical excitation pulsed thermography, and this technique can enhance the defect detectability and the depth-resolution dynamic range for the propellant /cladding layer interface debonding defects of the solid propellant rocket motor. Firstly, three-dimensional (3D) thermal-wave model which stimulated by a pulse excitation thermal source was built. The temperature field distribution and the thermal-wave diffusion behavior were analyzed. Subsequently, multiple feature extraction algorithms were proposed and applied to extract characteristic images. The experimental set-up was developed and utilized to detect cladding layers with artificial defects. The results demonstrate that pulse thermography optimized by PLSR and ICA can achieve better detection of interface debonding defects. The characteristic profiles were analyzed to evaluate the ability of feature images to characterize the defect diameter and depth. The results depict that the 1st independent component has a better detection effect for defect depth and diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As all authors have a strong sense of responsibility and expertise in clinical microbiology, agreed by all authors, on behalf of all authors of this manuscript, the authors consequently request for article withdrawal for this manuscript. There is significant discrepancy in the genomic characteristics between the currently and previously dominant GBS (2018) and previously dominant GBS (2013-2014). Retraction notice to "Prevalence of GBS serotype III and identification of a ST 17-like genotype from neonates with invasive diseases in Guangzhou, China" [Microb. [Extracted from the article]

Bacillus cereus is one of the most common opportunistic pathogens responsible for various foodborn diseases. To investigate the regulatory mechanism of B. cereus under high osmotic pressure, two B. cereus strains B25 and B26 were isolated from the industrial soy sauce residue containing high-salt concentration. Resequencing was performed by Illumina/Solexa platform and 13,646 SNPs and 434 InDels were identified as common variants between B25 and B26 against reference genome, followed by COG, GO, and KEGG enrichment analysis. Furthermore, 49 key genes involving in Na + /H + ,K + transporter, dipeptide or tripeptide transporter, stress response were selected and classified into 27 groups. Further validation was performed by qRT-PCR, and 4 candidate genes were found most associated with osmotic response. Gene expression of the 4 candidate genes was then analyzed accordingly, and down regulation was obtained for gene BC0669 and BC0754 associated with K + transport system. However, dramatic up regulation was detected for gene BC2114 involving in glutathione peroxidase, indicating the activation of antioxidant responses by osmotic stress via genetic regulation. As concluded, bioinformatic analysis and gene expression profile represented the basis of further investigation on the genetic and regulatory mechanism of bacterial salt tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The anaerobic global regulator FNR from Escherichia coli is a [4Fe–4S]2+ cluster containing, O2 labile dimer that plays an important role in adapting the bacterium to its anaerobic lifestyle. Although functional significance of this global regulator has been well established, its structural and biochemical characterizations have been hindered by the intrinsic O2 lability of FNR protein. To obtain oxygen stable FNR variants for in vitro characterizations, in this study, we utilized the approach of covalently linking two fnr alleles in tandem to promote their in situ dimerization in the absence of the [4Fe–4S]2+ cluster under aerobic conditions. By covalently linking two alleles of fnrD154A mutant, which has reduced charge repulsions between two FNR monomers, an FNR variant of FNRD154A-Linker-FNRD154A (designated as (FNRD154A)2) was constructed. (FNRD154A)2 displayed significantly enhanced DNA binding affinities and transcriptional regulatory activities to various FNR dependent promoters under aerobic conditions. Further in vivo and in vitro studies demonstrated that this variant retains oxygen sensing capability and maintains a similar secondary structure as that formed by native monomers of FNRD154A. We conclude that this novel variant of FNR can be widely used in various biochemical and structural studies of FNR in the presence of O2. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• TPPU alleviates seizures and depression in the LiCl-pilocarpine post- SE rat model. • TPPU attenuates inflammations in the brain of LiCl-pilocarpine post-SE rat model. • TPPU might be a new treatment for epilepsy and comorbidities, especially depression. This study aimed to investigate whether 1-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-3-(1-propionylpiperidin-4-yl) urea (TPPU), a soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor with anti-inflammatory effects, could alleviate spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS) and epilepsy-associated depressive behaviours in the lithium chloride (LiCl)-pilocarpine-induced post-status epilepticus (SE) rat model. The rats were intraperitoneally (IP) injected with LiCl (127 mg/kg) and pilocarpine (40 mg/kg) to induce SE. A video surveillance system was used to monitor SRS in the post-SE model for 6 weeks (from the onset of the 2nd week to the end of the 7th week after SE induction). TPPU (0.1 mg/kg/d) was intragastrically given for 4 weeks from the 21st day after SE induction in the SRS + 0.1 TPPU group. The SRS + PEG 400 group was given the vehicle (40% polyethylene glycol 400) instead, and the control group was given LiCl and PEG 400 but not pilocarpine. The sucrose preference test (SPT) and forced swim test (FST) were conducted to evaluate the depression-like behaviours of rats. Immunofluorescent staining, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and western blot analysis were performed to measure astrocytic and microglial gliosis, neuronal loss, and levels of soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), cytokines [tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6], and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-response element binding protein (CREB). The frequency of SRS was significantly decreased at 6 weeks and 7 weeks after SE induction in the 0.1TPP U group compared with the SRS + PEG 400 group. The immobility time (IMT) evaluated by FST was significantly decreased, whereas the climbing time (CMT) was increased, and the sucrose preference rate (SPR) evaluated by SPT was in an increasing trend. The levels of sEH, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the hippocampus (Hip) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were all significantly increased in the SRS + PEG 400 group compared with the control group; neuronal loss, astrogliosis, and microglial activation were also observed. The astrocytic and microglial activation and levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines in the Hip and PFC were significantly attenuated in the TPPU group compared with the SRS + PEG 400 group; moreover, neuronal loss and the decreased CREB expression were significantly alleviated as well. TPPU treatment after SE attenuates SRS and epilepsy-associated depressive behaviours in the LiCl-pilocarpine induced post-SE rat model, and it also exerts anti-inflammatory effects in the brain. Our findings suggest a new therapeutic approach for epilepsy and its comorbidities, especially depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C threatens human health and brings a heavy economic burden. Shandong Province is the second most populous province in China and has uneven regional economic development. Therefore, we analyzed the incidence rate trend and regional differences of hepatitis C in Shandong Province from 2004 to 2021. The monthly and annual incidence rates of hepatitis C in Shandong Province from 2022 to 2030 were predicted by fitting Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model (ARIMA), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and ARIMA-LSTM combined model. From 2004 to 2021, annual new cases of hepatitis C in Shandong Province increased from 635 to 5834, with a total of 61,707 cases. The incidence rate increased from 0.69/100 thousand in 2004 to 6.40/100 thousand in 2019, with a slight decrease in 2020 and 2021. The average annual incidence rate was 3.47/100 thousand. In terms of regional distribution, the hepatitis C incidence rate in Shandong Province was generally high in the west and low in the east. It is estimated that the hepatitis C incidence rate in Shandong Province will be 9.21 per 100 thousand in 2030. The hepatitis C incidence rate in Shandong Province showed an increasing trend from 2004 to 2019 and a decreasing trend in 2020 and 2021. Significant regional variations in incidence rate existed. An upward trend in incidence rate is predicted from 2022 to 2030. It is necessary to strengthen the prevention and control of hepatitis C to achieve the goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. • Hepatitis C is a serious threat to human health and brings heavy economic burden. • Incidence of hepatitis C in Shandong increased and then decreased from 2004 to 2021. • Economically underdeveloped western regions have higher incidence and faster growth. • A declining trend in incidence is predicted from 2022 to 2030. • It is necessary to strengthen the prevention and control of hepatitis C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Caveolin-1 has been reported to play an important role in the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This study was designed to identify Caveolin-1-interacting proteins to reveal the molecular mechanisms of ARDS. Yeast two-hybrid screening was performed using Caveolin-1 as the bait, and Axin-1 was identified as a binding partner for Caveolin-1. Co-immunoprecipitation demonstrated that the binding domains were located in the N -terminal region (1–100 aa) of Caveolin-1 and the C -terminal region (710–797 aa) of Axin-1. Caveolin-1 gene knockout or Axin-1 knockdown significantly decreased the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in the supernatants of alveolar type I (AT-I) epithelial cells treated with LPS. Disrupting the interaction between Caveolin-1 and Axin-1 using CRISPR/Cas9 technology led to a significant increase in TNF-α and IL-6 from AT-I cells, along with a significant reduction in β-catenin expression. In conclusion, Axin-1 functions as an adaptor of Caveolin-1 and affects the production of inflammatory cytokines in AT-I cells challenged with LPS via β-catenin-mediated negative regulation. Highlights • Axin-1 was indentified as an interacting protein for Cav-1. • The interaction between Axin-1 and Cav-1 is involved in the inflammatory response of AT-I cells induced by LPS. • This study provides a potential therapeutic target for drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic inflammation is associated with all stages of cancer development. Moreover, a proinflammatory microenvironment resulted from chronic inflammation is considered to be an essential component of cancer. Interleukin-23 (IL-23) is a general proinflammatory factor; and is involved in tumor-associated inflammation in gastric cancer (GC). However, the direct effect of IL-23 on GC cells has been rarely reported. The aim of the study was to clarify the direct role of IL-23 in regulating GC progression, and to identify the underlying mechanism. In this study, Positive expression of IL-23R was observed in GC tissues and cell lines by using immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence. In western blots, the expression of IL-23R was higher in GC tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. Furthermore, IL-23R positive GC tissues were closely related with larger tumor size and worse T stage and clinical stage. By performing in vitro experiments, we found that IL-23 binding to its receptor promoted the migration and invasion of BGC-823 cells in vitro . Moreover, IL-23 induced the activation of STAT3 and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in BGC-823 cells. Knocking down STAT3 in BGC-823 cells attenuated the effect of IL-23 on EMT and cell migration and invasion. Taken together, our study has firstly demonstrated the positive expression of IL-23R in human GC tissues and cell lines. IL-23 binding to its receptor promotes the migration and invasion of GC cells by inducing EMT through the STAT3 signaling pathway. This work provides a new mechanism for the oncogenic role of IL-23 on GC progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) have become an important cause of nosocomial infections of hospitalized patients. Methods To investigate the microbial infection patterns and molecular epidemiology characteristics of the carbapenem-resistant GNB isolates from a long-term hospitalized patient, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, phenotypic screening test for carbapenemase production, PCR screening and DNA sequencing of carbapenemase genes, repetitive extragenic palindromic sequence-based PCR (REP-PCR), multilocus sequencing typing (MLST) and genetic environment analysis were performed. Results Twelve strains with carbapenemase genes were detected from 63 carbapenem-resistant isolates, including two bla IMP-25 -carrying Pseudomonas aeruginosa , one bla NDM-1 -carrying Citrobacter freundii , three bla NDM-1 -carrying Klebsiella pneumoniae and six bla KPC-2 -carrying K. pneumoniae . Only the bla NDM-1 genes were successfully transferred from three K. pneumoniae strains to Escherichia coli C600 by conjugation. Genetic environment of bla IMP-25 , bla NDM-1 and bla KPC-2 genes in our study were consistent with previous reports. Molecular typing of K. pneumoniae performed by MLST revealed that most of the isolates belonged to ST11. bla NDM-1 -carrying K. pneumoniae sequencing type 1416 was first reported in our study. Conclusions Carbapenem-resistant GNB are common pathogens during long-term hospitalization, and ST11 bla KPC-2 -carrying K. pneumoniae is the dominant bacterium in our study. Colonization and horizontal transmission of resistance by plasmids of carbapenem-resistant GNB have increased the risks of persistent infection and mortality of long-term hospitalized patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbapenem, imipenem and meropenem have been broadly prescribed contributing to the global occurrence and prevalence of carbapenem resistance in Psuedomonas aeruginosa , and the associated resistance genotypes remains clinically significant. A retrospective surveillance had been conducted on 499 P. aeruginosa isolates in South China during 2003–2007, including antimicrobial resistance and characterization of MBLs on carbapenem-resistant strains. One hundred and sixty-four out of 499 strains were carbapenem-resistant, with 11, 4 and 5 strains positive for bla IMP-9 , bla IMP-25 and bla VIM-2 , respectively. Sixteen out of 20 isolates were positive for intI1 and contained identical flanking regions (as indicated in KM384735 ), and all tested isolates containing the qacE△1 - sul1 of the typical 3′-conserved region. A novel bla IMP-25 metallo-β-lactamase and a genetic array of aacA4 - bla IMP-25 - oxa30 - catB3 have been discovered from this retrospective surveillance on antimicrobial resistance of P. aeruginosa . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Human growth transformation dependent protein (HGTD-P) is a newly identified protein that promotes neuronal apoptosis in hypoxia–ischemia brain damage (HIBD) in neonatal rats. However, the mechanisms regulating HGTD-P expression are not clear. Here we describe microRNAs targeted to HGTD-P and examine their effects on regulating neuronal apoptosis in HIBD. We use samples from cultured neurons after oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) and postnatal day 10 rat brains after hypoxia–ischemia (HI). RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunostaining are used to detect the expression of HGTD-P and cleaved caspase 3, as well as real-time PCR detects microRNA expression. MicroRNA agomir is used to inhibit the expression of HGTD-P, and DAPI, TUNEL, and TTC staining are employed to detect cell apoptosis and brain damage. Moreover, in vitro processing assay is used to examine the mechanism by which HI down-regulates miR-139-5p expression. We found that miR-139-5p is down-regulated in neurons and rat brains after HI treatment. The expression pattern of miR-139-5p correlates inversely with that of HGTD-P. Furthermore, miR-139-5p agomir inhibits neuronal apoptosis and attenuates HIBD, which is concurrent with down-regulation of HGTD-P. Moreover, pre-miR-139 processing activity decreases in extracts from OGD neurons, and OGD neuronal extracts attenuates the processing of pre-miR-139 by Dicer. In conclusion, HI induces inhibitors which block the processing step of pre-miR-139, resulting in the down-regulation of mature miR-139-5p. The down-regulation of miR-139-5p plays a critical role in the up-regulation of HGTD-P expression. MiR-139-5p agomir attenuates brain damage when used 12h after HI, providing a longer therapeutic window than anti-apoptosis compounds currently available. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Spoilage bacteria had been shown to form viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state maintaining food spoilage capability. In this study, a novel procedure was used to confirm a beer spoilage case caused by a Pediococcus damnosus strain in the VBNC state. Firstly, flow cytometry, routine culturing and PMA-PCR methods were used to identify approximately 103 cells/ml VBNC cells in the spoiled beer sample based on the difference between CFU and viable cell numbers. Secondly, genomic sequencing showed all acquired scaffolds were identical to the genome of P. damnosus with no existence of other species or isolates. In addition, VBNC cells were obtained in both simulation conditions, including beer low temperature storage and subculturing. MRS agar supplemented with catalase was found to resuscitate VBNC cells. Normal, VBNC and resuscitated cells showed similar level of beer spoilage capability. As concluded, a novel procedure, in combination of genomic sequencing, flow cytometry and routine culturing was used to confirm VBNC cells in spoiled beer sample, providing direct evidence on the beer spoilage caused by VBNC P. damnosus cells, and will aid in further study on VBNC state in food industry so that more evidence on food safety problem caused by VBNC microbes will be shown. • This is the first report on beer spoilage caused by VBNC state P. damnosus. • VBNC state was induced by beer subculturing and low temperature. • MRS agar supplemented with catalase was found to induce the resuscitation of VBNC cells. • Normal, VBNC and resuscitated cells showed similar level of beer spoilage capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large amount of waste activated sludge (WAS) and food waste (FW) are produced every year in China. Anaerobic co-digestion is considered to be an effective way to solve this problem. This study applied FW/WAS mixture as co-substrate to create different digestive environment, aiming to understand the mechanism of Fe 3 O 4 particles in promoting AD performance. The results showed that the addition of Fe 3 O 4 presented various performances when facing different digestive acidification stress brought by different mixing ratios of WAS and FW. Methanogenic pathways and microbial communities varied with substrates' properties. For group A (WAS mono-digestion), the acetoclastic methanogens dominated, 20 mg/g VS (according to the iron element) Fe 3 O 4 could promote methane production, while 200 mg/g VS Fe 3 O 4 would inhibit microbial activity. The promoted methane production by Fe 3 O 4 was attributable to the promotion of sludge hydrolysis. For group B (WAS: FW = 1:0.5, based on VS addition, similarly hereinafter), Fe 3 O 4 triggered direct interspecific electron transfer (DIET) between bacteria and methanogens. For group C (WAS: FW = 1:1), the hydrogenotrophic methanogens dominated, bacteria excreted more non-conductive polysaccharides in EPS to resist unfavorable environment, thereby it prevented their contact with Fe 3 O 4 particles. So, it was difficult for Fe 3 O 4 to trigger DIET and promote the digestive performance of batch experiments in such condition. [Display omitted] • Microbial communities determine the performance of Fe 3 O 4 in the digestive system. • Methanogenic pathways and microbial communities vary with substrates' properties. • Fe 3 O 4 triggers DIET in a stable state when hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis domains. • Excessive EPS prevented Fe 3 O 4 from triggering DIET between microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, food quality and safety issues caused by foodborne pathogens and spoilage bacteria have attracted widespread attention. This study examined effectiveness of intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment on the inactivation of seven foodborne gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus , Bacillus cereus , Listeria monocytogenes , Enterococcus faecium , Bacillus thuringiensis , Lactobacillus brevis , and Pediococcus acidilactici. The bacteria of three survival states, including planktonic, early (8 h) and mature biofilm (48 h), and in two biofilm models, including 96 well cell culture plate and polycarbonate membrane were cultivated, which were treated by IPL with three fluences (0.0407, 0.0319 and 0.0150 J*cm−2) under different number of pulses at 25 °C and 4 °C. Results showed that high level inactivation under different conditions were achieved and the inactivation rate improved with the increasing of fluence and pulse number. Moreover, mature biofilm had the strongest resistance ability to IPL, followed by early biofilm, while both of them were far more resistant than planktonic state. IPL may provide a means of surface decontamination, thereby reducing the contamination of microorganisms on the food surface. • High level inactivation of 7 g-positive bacteria are achieved by IPL. • Sterilization rate increase with the increasing of fluence and pulse number. • Except for planktonic state, early (8 h) and mature biofilm (48 h) are cultivated. • 96 well cell culture plate and polycarbonate membrane models are selected for biofilm culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a medically important pathogen showing intrinsic low permeability to various antimicrobial agents and its potential to acquire multiple resistance mechanism. A longitudinal surveillance aimed to investigate the antimicrobial resistance and its determinants of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Southern China. A total of 2163 P. aeruginosa isolates were obtained from patients in Southern China during 2004–2016. The antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates was performed by disk diffusion and Vitek 2 automated system and interpreted according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) 2015. A significant downtrend of resistant rate (>10.0%) was observed for tested antibiotic agents including ciprofloxacin (>30.0%), gentamicin (29.0%), tobramycin (24.2%) and ceftazidime (24.0%) except for aztreonam and amikacin. A total of 269 randomly selected isolates were further studied on the carriage of β-lactam resistance genes by using 7 groups of multiplex PCRs targeting on 20 genes. β-lactam resistance genes were rarely detected with a rate lower than 8%. Among all β-lactam resistance genes, bla SHV acquired the highest identification rate (18/269, 6.7%), followed by bla OXA-1 -like (6/269, 2.2%) and bla PER (6/269, 2.2%). In addition, 8 different plasmid replicons were amplified using 8 groups of multiplex PCRs including 18 sets of primers. Only five plasmid replicons were identified in 5 different P. aeruginosa isolates. Insignificant clonal relatedness among the positive strains identified by regular PCR were further verified by randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-PCR. This study has provided comprehensive knowledge on current antimicrobial resistance, β-lactam resistance genes and plasmid replicons carriage in a large scale of clinical P. aeruginosa isolates. • The resistant rate of the 13 tested antibiotic agents showed a downtrend. • The most predominant specimen source of P. aeruginosa was sputum. • P. aeruginosa isolates rarely carried β-lactam resistance genes. • The carriage rate of plasmid replicons in P. aeruginosa isolates was low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cronobacter sakazakii is an emerging opportunistic foodborne pathogen causing rare but severe infections in neonates. Furthermore, the formation of biofilm allows C. sakazakii to persist in different environments. We have demonstrated that the mutator phenotype ascribed to deficiency of the pmrA gene results in more biomass in the first 24 h but less during the post maturation stage (7–14 d) compared with BAA 894. The present study aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanism modulating biofilm formation due to pmrA mutation. The transcriptomic analyses of BAA 894 and s-3 were performed by RNA-sequencing on planktonic and biofilm cells collected at different time points. According to the results, when comparing biofilm to planktonic cells, expression of genes encoding outer membrane proteins, lysozyme, etc. were up-regulated, with LysR family transcriptional regulators, periplasmic proteins, etc. down-regulated. During biofilm formation, cellulose synthase operon genes, flagella-related genes, etc. played essential roles in different stages. Remarkably, pmrA varies the expression of a number of genes related to motility, biofilm formation, and antimicrobial resistance, including srfB , virK , mviM encoding virulence factor, flgF , fliN , etc. encoding flagellar assembly, and marA , ramA , etc. encoding AraC family transcriptional regulators in C. sakazakii. This study provides valuable insights into transcriptional regulation of C. sakazakii pmrA mutant during biofilm formation. • l A thorough and comprehensive transcriptome analyses of C. sakazakii were conducted.. • Transcriptomes of planktonic and biofilm cells during biofilm formation were analyzed. • The role of pmrA in biofilm associated cells was revealed. • Virulent factors related to motility and antimicrobial resistance were discovered. • l This study further aid in insightful elucidation of biofilm formation in C. sakazakii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Streptococcus agalactiae is considered as a leading case of bacterial infection among neonates. Although relative protection strategies have been performed in many high-income countries, resulting in a massive reduction in the occurrences of early-onset GBS disease, the late-onset disease has not affected. Here, the whole genome of S. agalactiae Guangzhou-SAG036 was sequenced by the Pacific Biosciences Sequel using the P4–C2 chemistry and the continuous long reads were used for de novo assembly using HGAP. Besides, genes prediction and multiply annotation were performed by comparing it with diverse databases. The whole genome has a length of 2,206,504 bp and contains 2162 predicted genes with an average G + C content of 35.85%. Based on the whole genome sequence, 2 large prophages, 20 virulence factors genes, and 8 antibiotic resistant genes were identified. MLST analysis revealed S. agalactiae Guangzhou-SAG036 was identified as ST-17. The virulence factors genes were identified with different functions including adherence, antiphagocytosis, spreading factor, immune evasion, invasion, toxin. Besides, the antibiotic-resistant genes may provide S. agalactiae with resistance to multi-drugs including erythromycin, streptomycin, azithromycin, spiramycin, ampicillin, kanamycin, cationic peptides, and tetracycline. Therefore, the infection of S. agalactiae Guangzhou-SAG036 ST-17 strain maybe caused by the complex virulence factors and multi-drugs resistance. These results contribute to further understand GBS epidemiology and surveillance targets. • The whole genome of S. agalactiae Guangzhou-SAG036 has a length of 2,206,504 bp with an average G + C content of 35.85%. • The genome shows high similarity (99% identity) with two sequenced S. agalactiae strains isolated from China in 2016 and one isolated from Canada in 2010. • 2162 predicted genes had been identified containing two prophages. • MLST type was identified as ST-17. • 19 virulence factors genes and 8 antibiotic resistant genes were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) has been considered a potential "Super Bugs", responsible for various infectious diseases. Vancomycin has been the most effective antibitic to treat MRSA originated infections. In this study, we aimed at investigating the genomic features of a vancomycin intermediate-resistance S. aureus strain Guangzhou-SauVS2 isolated from a female patient suffering from chronic renal function failure, emphasizing on its antimicrobial resistance and virulence determinants. The genome has a total length of 2,605,384 bp and the G+C content of 33.21%, with 2,239 predicted genes annotated with GO terms, COG categories, and KEGG pathways. Besides the carriage of vancomycin b-type resistance protein responsible for the vancomycin intermediate-resistance, S. aureus strain Guangzhou-SauVS2 showed resistance to β-lactams, quinolones, macrolide, and tetracycline, due to the acquisition of corresponding antimicrobial resistance genes. In addition, virulence factors including adherence, antiphagocytosis, iron uptake, and toxin were determined, indicating the pathogenesis of the strain. • The carriage of vancomycin b-type resistance protein may contribute to the vancomycin intermediate-resistance. • β-lactam, quinolone, macrolide and tetracycline resistance may due to corresponding antibiotic resistance genes carriage. • The genome has a total length of 7,816,153 bp and the G+C content of 34.27%, with 6,697 predicted genes. • Virulence factors were determined, indicating the pathogenesis of the strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus brevis is a major contaminant of spoiled beer. And it was able to enter VBNC state and cause false negative detection, which poses a major challenge to the brewing industry. The genomic DNA of L. brevis BM-LB13908 was extracted and purified to form a sequencing library that meets the quality requirements and was sequenced. The sequencing results were then screened and assembled to obtain the entire genome sequence of L. brevis. Predicted genes were annotated by GO database, KEGG pathway database and COG functional classification system. The final assembly yielded 275 scaffolds of a total length of 2 840 080 bp with a G + C content of 53.35%. There were 2357, 701, 1519 predicted genes with corresponding GO functional, COG functional, and KEGG biological pathway annotations, respectively. The genome of L. brevis BM-LB13908 contains hop resistance gene horA and multiple genes related to the formation of VBNC state. This report describes the draft genome sequence of L. brevis BM-LB13908, a spoilage strain isolated from finished beer sample. This study may support further study on L. brevis and other beer spoilage bacteria, and prevent and control beer spoilage caused by microorganisms. • This report describes the draft genome sequence of L. brevis BM-LB13908, a spoilage strain isolated from finished beer sample. • The final assembly yielded 275 scaffolds of a total length of 2,840,080 bp with a G + C content of 53.35%. • 2357, 701 and 1519 predicted genes with corresponding GO functional, COG functional, and KEGG pathway annotations, respectively. • The genome of L. brevis BM-LB13908 contains hop resistance gene horA and multiple genes related to the VBNC state formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]