[The prediction value of combined serum levels of TMAO and TML for poor prognosis in patients with heart failure]

Objective: To evaluate the predictive value of combined serum levels of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and trimethyllysine (TML) for poor prognosis in patients with heart failure. Methods: This single-center prospective cohort study included hospitalized patients with heart failure and complete baseline data from the Department of Cardiology at Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from June 2017 to December 2020. Patients were categorized into four groups based on median serum levels of TMAO and TML after admission: TMAO low level TML low level group (TMAO<9.7 μmol/L, TML<0.73 μmol/L), TMAO low level TML high level group (TMAO<9.7 μmol/L, TML≥0.73 μmol/L), TMAO high level TML low level group (TMAO≥9.7 μmol/L, TML<0.73 μmol/L) and TMAO high level TML high level group (TMAO≥9.7 μmol/L, TML≥0.73 μmol/L). The primary endpoint was a composite endpoint of cardiovascular death and readmission for heart failure. Multiple factor Cox regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the correlation between serum TMAO and TML levels and poor prognosis in patients with heart failure. Results: A total of 471 patients with heart failure were included, with an mean age of (62.5±12.0) years and a median follow-up time of 1.61 (1.06, 2.90) years. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that after adjusting for age, gender, and traditional risk factors, the TMAO high level TML high level group had a higher incidence of primary endpoint events compared to the TMAO low level TML low level group (HR=1.71, 95%CI 1.05-2.77, P=0.03). Conclusion: Elevated serum levels of both TMAO and TML can effectively predict the occurrence of long-term adverse events in patients with heart failure.

Chromosome-scale genome assembly and annotation of Cotoneaster glaucophyllus

Cotoneaster glaucophyllus is a semi-evergreen plant that blossoms in late summer, producing dense, attractive, fragrant white flowers with significant ornamental and ecological value. Here, a chromosome-scale genome assembly was obtained by integrating PacBio and Illumina sequencing data with the aid of Hi-C technology. The genome assembly was 563.3 Mb in length, with contig N50 and scaffold N50 values of ~6 Mb and ~31 Mb, respectively. Most (95.59%) of the sequences were anchored onto 17 pseudochromosomes (538.4 Mb). We predicted 35,856 protein-coding genes, 1,401 miRNAs, 655 tRNAs, 425 rRNAs, and 795 snRNAs. The functions of 34,967 genes (97.52%) were predicted. The availability of this chromosome-level genome will provide valuable resources for molecular studies of this species, facilitating future research on speciation, functional genomics, and comparative genomics within the Rosaceae family.

A review regarding the article 'Prevalence of Valvular Heart Disease in Cardiac Amyloidosis and Impact on Survival'

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is a condition characterized by the accumulation of amyloid fibrils in the heart muscle, resulting in an infiltrative cardiomyopathy. The presence of amyloid protein can impact different parts of the heart, including the valves. Limited data is available on the prevalence and prognostic significance of valvular heart disease (VHD) in CA. However, advancements in imaging technology have allowed for accurate noninvasive diagnosis of CA, eliminating the need for confirmatory endomyocardial biopsy and improving our understanding of this dual pathology. The development of targeted drug therapies for CA and transcatheter valve replacement or repair for VHD has significantly improved the prognosis for patients with both conditions. This review will discuss the findings of this original research and provide an overview of current researches on VHD in CA, as well as the progress in diagnosing and treating CA with VHD.

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) promotes Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) to aggravate liver fibrosis into cirrhosis and portal hypertension (PHT) via ROS/TGF-β1/Snail-1 signalling pathway in adult rats

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the toxicological impact of Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) on the process of liver fibrosis transitioning into cirrhosis and the subsequent development of portal hypertension (PHT) through the mechanism of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mediated by the ROS/TGF-β/Snail-1 signaling pathway.

METHOD

Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) (1 mg/kg) was introduced in adult rats by oral feeding in CCl4 and CCl4+DBP groups twice a week for 8 weeks, and twice for another 8 week in CCl4 group. DBP was introduced by oral feeding in the CCl4+DBP group twice over the following 8 weeks. We subsequently analyzed hemodynamics measurements and liver cirrhosis degree, hepatic inflammation and liver function in the different groups. EMT related genes expression in rats in the groups of Control, DBP, CCl4 and CCl4+DBP were measured by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), qRT-PCR, western blot were used to detect the EMT related proteins and mRNA gene expression levels in rats and primary hepatocytes (PHCs). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were examined with a ROS detection kit.

RESULTS

The results showed that the CCl4+DBP group had higher portal pressure (PP) and lower mean arterial pressure (MAP) than the other groups. Elevated collagen deposition, profibrotic factor, inflammation, EMT levels were detected in DBP and CCl4+DBP groups. ROS, TGF-β1 and Snail-1 were highly expressed after DBP exposure in vitro. TGF-β1 had the potential to regulate Snail-1, and both of them were subject to regulation by ROS.

CONCLUSION

DBP could influence the progression of EMT through its toxicological effect by ROS/TGF-β1/Snail-1 signalling pathway, causing cirrhosis and PHT in final. The findings of this research might contribute to a novel comprehension of the underlying toxicological mechanisms and animal model involved in the progression of cirrhosis and PHT, and potentially offered a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of the disease.

Analysis of disulfidptosis- and cuproptosis-related LncRNAs in modulating the immune microenvironment and chemosensitivity in colon adenocarcinoma

The main objective was to establish a prognostic model utilising long non-coding RNAs associated with disulfidptosis and cuproptosis. The data for RNA-Sequence and clinicopathological information of Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas. A prognostic model was constructed using Cox regression and the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator method. The model's predictive ability was assessed through principal component analysis, Kaplan-Meier analysis, nomogram etc. The ability of identifying the rates of overall survival, infiltration of immune cells, and chemosensitivity was also explored. In vitro experiments were conducted for the validation of differential expression and function of lncRNAs. A disulfidptosis and cuproptosis-related lncRNA prognostic model was constructed. The prognostic model exhibits excellent independent predictive capability for patient outcomes. Based on the authors' model, the high-risk group exhibited higher tumour mutation burdened worse survival. Besides, differences in immune cell infiltration and responsiveness to chemotherapeutic medications exist among patients with different risk scores. Furthermore, aberrant expressions in certain lncRNAs have been validated in HCT116 cells. In particular, FENDRR and SNHG7 could affect the proliferation and migration of colorectal cancer cells. Our study developed a novel prognostic signature, providing valuable insights into prognosis, immune infiltration, and chemosensitivity in COAD patients.

Cediranib ameliorates portal hypertensive syndrome via inhibition of VEGFR-2 signaling in cirrhotic rats

Portal hypertension (PHT) is a syndrome caused by systemic and portal hemodynamic disturbances with the progression of cirrhosis. However, the exact mechanisms regulating angiogenesis-related responses in PHT remain unclear. Cediranib is a potent inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) tyrosine kinases, exhibiting a greater affinity for VEGFR-2. Liver cirrhosis was induced by common bile duct ligation (BDL) in Sprague-Dawley rats. Sham-operated rats were controls. BDL and sham rats were randomly allocated to receive Cediranib or vehicle after BDL. On the 28th day, portal hypertension related parameters were surveyed. Cediranib treatment could significantly reduce the portal pressure (PP) in BDL rats, while it did not affect the mean arterial pressure (MAP) in sham groups and BDL groups. Cediranib treatment could significantly affect the stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), superior mesenteric artery (SMA) flow and SMA resistance in BDL groups and BDL with Cediranib groups. Cediranib treatment could improve the mesenteric vascular remodeling and contractility. Cediranib treatment significantly reduced mesenteric vascular density. And phospho-VEGFR-2 was significantly downregulated by Cediranib. On the other hand, phospho-endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthases (phospho-eNOS) expressions were upregulated. Cediranib not only improved splanchnic hemodynamics, extrahepatic vascular remodeling and vasodilation, but also alleviated intrahepatic fibrosis and collagen deposition significantly. Cediranib treatment could reduce intrahepatic angiogenesis between BDL-vehicle and BDL-Cediranib rats. In conclusion, Cediranib could improve extrahepatic hyperdynamic circulation by inhibiting extrahepatic angiogenesis through inhibition of the VEGFR-2 signaling pathway, portal collateral circulation formation, as well as eNOS-mediated vasodilatation and vascular remodeling, and at the same time, Cediranib improved intrahepatic fibrogenesis and angiogenesis, which together alleviate cirrhotic PHT syndrome.

Lysimachiadanxiashanensis, a new species of Primulaceae from Guangdong, China

Lysimachiadanxiashanensis, a new Primulaceae species, endemic to the Danxia landscape in Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. This new species is morphologically similar to L.pseudohenryi, L.phyllocephala, L.congestiflora and L.kwangtungensis, but it differs from the similar species by its purplish-red plants, petiole without wings, calyx with orange glandular and the corolla margin serrated on upper half with orange-red glandular punctates. This new species belongs to Lysimachiasubgen.Lysimachiasect.Nummularia. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that L.danxiashanensis is a distinct clade, based on the combined data of ITS and rbcL sequences. The conservation status of the new species was evaluated as Endangered (EN) according to IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Camelliazijinica (Theaceae), a new species endemic to Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China

A new species of the genus Camellia (Theaceae), Camelliazijinica, discovered in the Danxia landscape from Guangdong Province, China, is characterized and illustrated. Phylogenetic analysis based on chloroplast genomes suggested its affinity with C.drupifera, C.oleifera and C.fluviatilis, however, it morphologically differs from all of the latter by leaf shape and size. Phonologically, it most closely resembles C.microphylla, but can be distinguished from the latter by its young branchlets glabrous (vs. densely pubescent), fewer bracteoles and sepals, diverse leaf shape, midvein raised slightly with sparsely pubescent or glabrous (vs. prominently with densely pubescent) and leaf adaxially matt (vs. vernicose) when dried. By morphological and molecular analyses, Camelliazijinica represented a distinct new species of C.sect.Paracamellia.

Lineage regulators TFAP2C and NR5A2 function as bipotency activators in totipotent embryos

During the first lineage segregation, a mammalian totipotent embryo differentiates into the inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE). However, how transcription factors (TFs) regulate this earliest cell-fate decision in vivo remains elusive, with their regulomes primarily inferred from cultured cells. Here, we investigated the TF regulomes during the first lineage specification in early mouse embryos, spanning the pre-initiation, initiation, commitment, and maintenance phases. Unexpectedly, we found that TFAP2C, a trophoblast regulator, bound and activated both early TE and inner cell mass (ICM) genes at the totipotent (two- to eight-cell) stages ('bipotency activation'). Tfap2c deficiency caused downregulation of early ICM genes, including Nanog, Nr5a2, and Tdgf1, and early TE genes, including Tfeb and Itgb5, in eight-cell embryos. Transcription defects in both ICM and TE lineages were also found in blastocysts, accompanied by increased apoptosis and reduced cell numbers in ICMs. Upon trophoblast commitment, TFAP2C left early ICM genes but acquired binding to late TE genes in blastocysts, where it co-bound with CDX2, and later to extra-embryonic ectoderm (ExE) genes, where it cooperatively co-occupied with the former ICM regulator SOX2. Finally, 'bipotency activation' in totipotent embryos also applied to a pluripotency regulator NR5A2, which similarly bound and activated both ICM and TE lineage genes at the eight-cell stage. These data reveal a unique transcription circuity of totipotency underpinned by highly adaptable lineage regulators.

Anti-CELA1 antibody KF4 prevents emphysema by inhibiting stretch-mediated remodeling

There are no therapies to prevent emphysema progression. Chymotrypsin-like elastase 1 (CELA1) is a serine protease that binds and cleaves lung elastin in a stretch-dependent manner and is required for emphysema in a murine antisense oligonucleotide model of α-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency. This study tested whether CELA1 is important in strain-mediated lung matrix destruction in non-AAT-deficient emphysema and the efficacy of CELA1 neutralization. Airspace simplification was quantified after administration of tracheal porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE), after 8 months of cigarette smoke (CS) exposure, and in aging. In all 3 models, Cela1-/- mice had less emphysema and preserved lung elastin despite increased lung immune cells. A CELA1-neutralizing antibody was developed (KF4), and it inhibited stretch-inducible lung elastase in ex vivo mouse and human lung and immunoprecipitated CELA1 from human lung. In mice, systemically administered KF4 penetrated lung tissue in a dose-dependent manner and 5 mg/kg weekly prevented emphysema in the PPE model with both pre- and postinjury initiation and in the CS model. KF4 did not increase lung immune cells. CELA1-mediated lung matrix remodeling in response to strain is an important contributor to postnatal airspace simplification, and we believe that KF4 could be developed as a lung matrix-stabilizing therapy in emphysema.

Human Adipose-derived Stem Cells Upregulate IGF-1 and Alleviate Osteoarthritis in a Two-stage Rabbit Osteoarthritis Model

OBJECTIVE

In recent years, it has been known that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to treat osteoarthritis (OA). This study aimed to investigate the effects of intraarticular injection of human adipose-derived stem cells (hADSCs) in a new double-damage rabbit osteoarthritis model.

METHODS

The OA model was established surgically first by medial collateral ligament and anterior insertional ligament transection and medical meniscectomy, then by articular cartilage full-thickness defect. At six weeks following surgery, hADSCs were labeled with Enhanced Green Fluorescence Protein expressing lentivirus FG12 and injected into the knee joints. All rabbits were sacrificed at 4- and 8 weeks post-surgery. Assessments were carried out by macroscopic examination, immunohistochemistry staining, magnetic resonance imaging, qRT-PCR and ELISA analysis.

RESULTS

At 4- and 8 weeks, hADSCs injection showed less cartilage loss, few fissures and few cracks, decreased volume of joint effusion and cartilage defect measured with MRI. Furthermore, ELISA and qRT-PCR methods showed that hADSCs treatment increased the level of IGF-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that hADSC transplantation promotes articular cartilage healing in the double-damage rabbit osteoarthritis model, IGF-1 may play an essential role in the hADSC-based cartilage repair process. Transplantation of hADSCs may be suitable for clinical application in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Multifaceted SOX2-chromatin interaction underpins pluripotency progression in early embryos

Pioneer transcription factors (TFs), such as OCT4 and SOX2, play crucial roles in pluripotency regulation. However, the master TF-governed pluripotency regulatory circuitry was largely inferred from cultured cells. In this work, we investigated SOX2 binding from embryonic day 3.5 (E3.5) to E7.5 in the mouse. In E3.5 inner cell mass (ICM), SOX2 regulates the ICM-trophectoderm program but is dispensable for opening global enhancers. Instead, SOX2 occupies preaccessible enhancers in part opened by early-stage expressing TFs TFAP2C and NR5A2. SOX2 then widely redistributes when cells adopt naive and formative pluripotency by opening enhancers or poising them for rapid future activation. Hence, multifaceted pioneer TF-enhancer interaction underpins pluripotency progression in embryos, including a distinctive state in E3.5 ICM that bridges totipotency and pluripotency.

Deep Reinforcement Learning-Based Power Allocation for Minimizing Age of Information and Energy Consumption in Multi-Input Multi-Output and Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access Internet of Things Systems

Multi-input multi-output and non-orthogonal multiple access (MIMO-NOMA) Internet-of-Things (IoT) systems can improve channel capacity and spectrum efficiency distinctly to support real-time applications. Age of information (AoI) plays a crucial role in real-time applications as it determines the timeliness of the extracted information. In MIMO-NOMA IoT systems, the base station (BS) determines the sample collection commands and allocates the transmit power for each IoT device. Each device determines whether to sample data according to the sample collection commands and adopts the allocated power to transmit the sampled data to the BS over the MIMO-NOMA channel. Afterwards, the BS employs the successive interference cancellation (SIC) technique to decode the signal of the data transmitted by each device. The sample collection commands and power allocation may affect the AoI and energy consumption of the system. Optimizing the sample collection commands and power allocation is essential for minimizing both AoI and energy consumption in MIMO-NOMA IoT systems. In this paper, we propose the optimal power allocation to achieve it based on deep reinforcement learning (DRL). Simulations have demonstrated that the optimal power allocation effectively achieves lower AoI and energy consumption compared to other algorithms. Overall, the reward is reduced by 6.44% and 11.78% compared the to GA algorithm and random algorithm, respectively.

[Efficacy of different regimens and prognostic factors in patients with first relapsed multiple myeloma treated after front-line bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone]

Objective: To analyze the efficacy of second-line regimens and prognostic factors in patients with first-relapsed multiple myeloma (MM) treated with bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone (BCD). Methods: A retrospective cohort study. Clinical data were collected in first-relapsed MM patients after BCD treatment from three tertiary hospitals in north China from July 2009 to October 2022. Patients were classified according to the second-line regimen into the immunotherapy group, single novel agent group [either proteasome inhibitor (PI) or immunomodulatory drug (IMiD)], combination treatment group (both PI+IMiD), and traditional treatment group. Responses to second-line regimens and survival data were analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis and the Cox proportional risk model was used for univariate and multivariate analyses. Results: A total of 217 patients were enrolled including 8.8% (19/217) in the immunotherapy group, 48.4% (105/217) in the PI/IMiD group, 29.9% (65/217) in the PI+IMiD group, and 12.9% (28/217) in the traditional treatment group. The median age was 62 years (range 31-83 years) and 56.2% (122/217) were males. The overall response rates (ORRs) in the four groups were 94.7% (18/19) vs. 56.2% (59/105) vs. 73.8% (48/65) vs. 32.1% (9/28) (χ2=24.55; P<0.001), respectively. The progression-free survival (PFS) of the second-line regimens (2ndPFS) was 17.7 vs. 9.0 vs. 9.2 vs. 4.6 months (χ2=22.74; P<0.001), respectively, among which patients in the PI/IMiD and PI+IMiD groups had comparable 2ndPFS (χ2=1.76; P=0.923). Patients with high-risk cytogenetic abnormalities (HRCAs) achieved the longest 2ndPFS of 22.0 months in the immunotherapy group (χ2=15.03; P=0.002). Multivariate analysis suggested that immunotherapy (HR=0.11, 95%CI 0.05-0.27), achievement of efficacy of partial response or better (HR=0.47, 95%CI 0.34-0.66), and non-aggressive relapse (HR=0.25, 95%CI 0.17-0.37) were independent prognostic factors of 2ndPFS. Conclusion: In this real-world study, immunotherapy was associated with a more favorable efficacy and PFS for first-relapsed MM patients after BCD treatment, with similar outcomes in patients with HRCAs.

Nightmare or delight: Taxonomic circumscription meets reticulate evolution in the phylogenomic era

Phylogenetic studies in the phylogenomics era have demonstrated that reticulate evolution greatly impedes the accuracy of phylogenetic inference, and consequently can obscure taxonomic treatments. However, the systematics community lacks a broadly applicable strategy for taxonomic delimitation in groups characterized by pervasive reticulate evolution. The red-fruit genus, Stranvaesia, provides an ideal model to examine the influence of reticulation on generic circumscription, particularly where hybridization and allopolyploidy dominate the evolutionary history. In this study, we conducted phylogenomic analyses integrating data from hundreds of single-copy nuclear (SCN) genes and plastomes, and interrogated nuclear paralogs to clarify the inter/intra-generic relationship of Stranvaesia and its allies in the framework of Maleae. Analyses of phylogenomic discord and phylogenetic networks showed that allopolyploidization and introgression promoted the origin and diversification of the Stranvaesia clade, a conclusion further bolstered by cytonuclear and gene tree discordance. With a well-inferred phylogenetic backbone, we propose an updated generic delimitation of Stranvaesia and introduce a new genus, Weniomeles. This new genus is distinguished by its purple-black fruits, thorns trunk and/or branches, and a distinctive fruit core anatomy characterized by multilocular separated by a layer of sclereids and a cluster of sclereids at the top of the locules. Through this study, we highlight a broadly-applicable workflow that underscores the significance of reticulate evolution analyses in shaping taxonomic revisions from phylogenomic data.

NR5A2 connects zygotic genome activation to the first lineage segregation in totipotent embryos

Zygotic genome activation (ZGA) marks the beginning of the embryonic program for a totipotent embryo, which gives rise to the inner cell mass (ICM) where pluripotent epiblast arises, and extraembryonic trophectoderm. However, how ZGA is connected to the first lineage segregation in mammalian embryos remains elusive. Here, we investigated the role of nuclear receptor (NR) transcription factors (TFs), whose motifs are highly enriched and accessible from the 2-cell (2C) to 8-cell (8C) stages in mouse embryos. We found that NR5A2, an NR TF strongly induced upon ZGA, was required for this connection. Upon Nr5a2 knockdown or knockout, embryos developed beyond 2C normally with the zygotic genome largely activated. However, 4-8C-specific gene activation was substantially impaired and Nr5a2-deficient embryos subsequently arrested at the morula stage. Genome-wide chromatin binding analysis showed that NR5A2-bound cis-regulatory elements in both 2C and 8C embryos are strongly enriched for B1 elements where its binding motif is embedded. NR5A2 was not required for the global opening of its binding sites in 2C embryos but was essential to the opening of its 8C-specific binding sites. These 8C-specific, but not 2C-specific, binding sites are enriched near genes involved in blastocyst and stem cell regulation, and are often bound by master pluripotency TFs in blastocysts and embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Importantly, NR5A2 regulated key pluripotency genes Nanog and Pou5f1/Oct4, and primitive endoderm regulatory genes including Gata6 among many early ICM genes, as well as key trophectoderm regulatory genes including Tead4 and Gata3 at the 8C stage. By contrast, master pluripotency TFs NANOG, SOX2, and OCT4 targeted both early and late ICM genes in mouse ESCs. Taken together, these data identify NR5A2 as a key regulator in totipotent embryos that bridges ZGA to the first lineage segregation during mouse early development.

A new species of Cotoneaster (Rosaceae) from western Sichuan, China

Cotoneasterdensiflorus, a new species of Rosaceae from western Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, we inferred that the new species belongs to CotoneasterSer.Salicifolii sensu Yü et al. (1974) in the Flora of China and Fryer and Hylmö (2009). This species is most similar to C.salicifolius, but differs in its leaf blade of ovate-lanceolate to obovate shape (vs. elliptic-oblong to ovate-lanceolate), smaller length-width ratio of 2.37 ± 0.31 (vs. 3.17 ± 0.32), slightly conduplicate (vs. not conduplicate), less lateral veins of 6-8 pairs (vs. 12-16 pairs), upper surface slightly rugose (vs. rugose), leaf margin plane (vs. revolute), lower surface densely grey tomentose (vs. grey tomentose, with bloom), greater corolla diameter of 7-9 mm (vs. 5-6 mm), styles 2 (vs. 2-3), pyrenes 2 (vs. 2-3), larger pollen grains P/E values of 2.05 ± 0.12 (vs. 1.19 ± 0.05) and leaf epidermis type W (vs. type I). Based on phylogenetic analysis of the whole chloroplast genome, C.densiflorus is sister to C.rhytidophyllus, but distantly related to C.salicifolius.

Chymotrypsin-like Elastase-1 Mediates Progressive Emphysema in Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency

Chymotrypsin-like elastase 1 (CELA1) is a serine protease that is neutralized by alpha-1antitrypsin (AAT) and prevents emphysema in a murine antisense oligonucleotide model of AAT-deficient emphysema. Mice with genetic ablation of AAT do not have emphysema at baseline but develop emphysema with injury and aging. We tested the role of the CELA1 gene in emphysema development in this genetic model of AAT-deficiency following tracheal lipopolysaccharide (LPS), 10 months of cigarette smoke exposure, aging, and a low-dose tracheal porcine pancreatic elastase (LD-PPE) model we developed. In this last model, we performed proteomic analysis to understand differences in lung protein composition. We were unable to show that AAT-deficient mice developed more emphysema than wild type with escalating doses of LPS. In the LD-PPE model, AAT-deficient mice developed significant and progressive emphysema from which Cela1-/- & AAT-deficient mice were protected. Cela1-/-& AAT-deficient lungs had more matrix-associated proteins than AAT-deficientlungs but also had more leukocyte-associated proteases. With cigarette smoke exposure, Cela1-/- &AAT-deficient mice had more emphysema than AAT-deficient mice but had less myeloperoxidase activity. Cela1-/-&AAT-deficient mice had less age-related airspace simplification than AAT-deficient and were comparable to wild type. While CELA1 promotes inflammation-independent emphysema progression and its absence preserves the lung matrix in multiple models of AAT-deficient emphysema, for unclear reasons Cela1 deficiency is associated with increased emphysema with cigarette smoke. While anti-CELA1 therapies could potentially be used to prevent emphysema progression in AAT deficiency after smoking cessation, an understanding of why and how cigarette smoke exacerbates emphysema in Cela1 deficiency and whether AAT replacement therapy mitigates this effect is needed first.

Characteristics of multi-channel intermuscular directional coupling based on time-varying partial directional coherence analysis

The human body transmits directional information between muscles during upper limb movements, and this will be particularly evident when the dominant muscle changes during movement transitions. By capturing the electromyography (EMG) signals of wrist flexion and extension continuous transition movements, we investigated the characteristics of multichannel intermuscular directional coupling and directional information transmission, and consequently explored the control mechanism of Central nervous system (CNS) and the coordination mechanism of motor muscles. Multi-channel EMG was collected from 12 healthy subjects under continuous translational movements of wrist flexion and extension, and the time-varying biased directional coherence analysis (TVPDC) model was constructed using partial directional coherence analysis (PDC) frequency domain directionality to study the directional information transfer characteristics in the time-frequency domain, screen closely related muscle pairs and perform directional coupling significance analysis. Palmaris longus (PL) played a dominant role under wrist flexion movements(WF), Extensor Carpi Radialis (ECR) played a dominant role under wrist extension movements(WE), and the remaining muscles responded to them with information and Biceps Brachii (BB) played a responsive role throughout the movement; flexor pairs had the highest positive coupling values in the beta band during Conversion action1 (MC1) and WF phases, and extensor pairs had the highest positive coupling values in the gamma band during Conversion action2(MC2) phase and the highest coupling values in the beta band during WE phase. TVPDC can effectively analyze the multichannel intermuscular directional coupling and information transmission relationship of surface electromyography under wrist flexion and extension transition movements, providing a reference for exploring the control mechanism of CNS and abnormal control mechanism in patients with motor dysfunction in a new perspective.

Population genetics of Camellia granthamiana, an endangered plant species with extremely small populations in China

Introduction: Camellia, the largest genus of Theaceae, is well-known for having high economic values. Camellia granthamiana demonstrates large beautiful flowers with some primitive characters, such as multiple large and persistent bracteoles and sepals, was listed as Vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List. Methods: In this study, we investigated all possible records of the species, and sampled four natural populations and five cultivated individuals. By applying shallow-genome sequencing for nine individuals and RAD-seq sequencing for all the sampled 77 individuals, we investigated population genetic diversity and population structure of the species. Results and discussion: The results showed that the population sampled from Fengkai, previously identified as C. albogigias, possessed different plastid genome from other species possibly due to plastid capture; the species possesses strong population structure possibly due to the effect of isolation by distance, habitat fragmentation, and self-crossing tendency of the species, whose effective population size declined quickly in the past 4,000 years. Nevertheless, C. granthamiana maintains a medium level of genetic diversity within population, and significant differentiation was observed among the four investigated populations, it is anticipated that more populations are expected to be found and all these extant populations should be taken into instant protection.

A Novel Planning and Delivery Technology: Dose, Dose Rate and Linear Energy Transfer (LET) Optimization Based on Spot-Scanning Proton Arc Therapy FLASH (SPLASHLET)

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To achieve a high conformal dose with Linear Energy Transfer (LET) optimized FLASH proton therapy, we introduced a new planning and delivery technique concept, the voxel-wised optimization of LET distribution and dose rate based on scanning arc therapy (SPLASHLET) MATERIALS/METHODS: The algorithm optimizes (1) the clinical dose-volume constraint based on dose distribution and (2) the clinical LET-volume constraint based on LET distribution using Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM) with Limited-memory BFGS solver by minimizing the monitor unit (MU) constraint on spot weight and (3) the effective dose-average dose rate by minimizing the accelerator's beam current sequentially. Such optimization framework enables the high dose conformal dynamic arc therapy with the capability of LET painting with voxel-based FLASH dose rate in an open-source proton planning platform (MatRad, Department of Medical Physics in Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center-DKFZ). It aiming to minimize the overall cost function value combined with plan quality and voxel-based LET and dose rate constraints. Three representative cases (brain, liver and prostate cancer) were used for testing purposes. Dose-volume histogram (DVH), LET volume histogram (LVH) dose rate volume histogram (DRVH) and dose rate map were assessed compared to the original SPArc plan (SPArcoriginal).

RESULTS

SPLASHLET plan could offer comparable plan quality compared to SPArcoriginal plan. The DRVH results indicated that SPArcoriginal could not achieve FLASH using the clinic beam current configuration, while SPLASHLET could significantly not only improve V40Gy/s in target and region of interest (ROI) but also improve the mean LET in the target and reduce the high LET in organ at risk (OAR) in comparison with SPArcoriginal (Table 1).

CONCLUSION

SPLASHLET offers the first LET painting with voxel-based ultra-dose-rate and high-dose conformity treatment using proton beam therapy. Such technique has the potential to take full vantage of LET painting, FLASH and SPArc.

TBX18 knockdown sensitizes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to radiotherapy by blocking the CHN1/RhoA axis

OBJECTIVE

Radioresistance is a challenge in the effective treatment of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Herein, this research ascertained whether TBX18 reduced the radiosensitivity of ESCC.

METHODS

Bioinformatics analysis was utilized to retrieve differentially expressed genes. Then, the expression of corresponding candidate genes was tested using qRT-PCR in ESCC clinical specimens, and TBX18 was selected for subsequent experiments. The binding between TBX18 and CHN1 was evaluated by dual-luciferase reporter and ChIP assays, and the relationship between CHN1 and RhoA was identified by GST pull-down. Ectopic expression or knockdown experiments and radiation treatment were performed in cells and the nude mouse xenograft model to clarify the impacts of TBX18, CHN1, and RhoA on radiosensitivity in ESCC.

RESULTS

Bioinformatics analysis and qRT-PCR retrieved upregulated TBX18 in ESCC for the follow-up study. Additionally, TBX18 was positively correlated with CHN1 in ESCC clinical specimens. Mechanistically, TBX18 bound to the CHN1 promoter region to transcriptionally activate CHN1, thus elevating RhoA activity. Moreover, TBX18 knockdown reduced ESCC cell proliferation and migration while augmenting their apoptosis after radiation, which was negated by further overexpressing CHN1 or RhoA. CHN1 or RhoA knockdown diminished ESCC cell proliferation and migration, as well as enhanced cell apoptosis, subsequent to radiation. Likewise, TBX18 overexpression increased ESCC cell autophagy after radiation, which was partially reversed by knockdown of RhoA. The results of in vivo xenograft experiments in nude mice were concurrent with the in vitro results.

CONCLUSION

TBX18 knockdown lowered CHN1 transcription and thus reduced RhoA activity, which sensitized ESCC cells to radiotherapy.

[A clustered epidemic investigation of non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact of HIV in Zhejiang Province]

Objective: To identify the transmission relationship between HIV infection cases the non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact in Zhejiang Province. Methods: When HIV positive was informed during January 2020 to January 2022, the staff conducted an epidemiological investigation to collect cases information on sociodemographic characteristics, mobility information, past HIV testing history, high-risk sexual behaviors, sexual partners, and etcetera. At the same time, 6-8 ml of blood from the new diagnosis of people infected with HIV before antiviral treatment was collected to separate the bleeding plasma. pol gene was amplified by nucleic acid extraction and PCR, sequenced by Sequencer 5.0 software, and Cytoscape 3.6.0 software was used to draw HIV molecular transmission network. Results: From January 2020 to January 2022, 88 HIV infected individuals were found in Pujiang County, of which 74 were transmitted through heterosexual transmission, of which 31 were infected through non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact. Preliminary case studies have found that three female cases have engaged in unprotected non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact with one male case. Among the 4 infected individuals, 2 of their spouses tested positive for HIV antibodies. Molecular transmission network monitoring was carried out on 65 newly diagnosed cases of heterosexual transmission with acquired sequences, forming 9 transmission clusters. The largest cluster contained 10 cases. A total of 11 HIV-infected individuals were involved in this HIV cluster epidemic. They were 3 males and 8 females, all over 50 years old and were farmers or rural housewives. They were traced to 7 sexual partners (6 negatives of HIV, 1 undetected). Among the 18 respondents' sexual social network relationships, there were 6 couples, 8 permanent partners, and 3 temporary partners. Among 11 HIV infected individuals, there were 9 cases of non-marital non-commercial heterosexual transmission and 2 cases of intramarital transmission. The epidemiological association between 7 non-married non-commercial heterosexual partners and case 2 (56-year-old male farmer), 3 cases confirmed by epidemiological investigation and molecular transmission cluster results, 3 cases confirmed by molecular transmission cluster and epidemiological investigation results, and 1 case confirmed by epidemiological investigation results. Conclusions: The transmission mode of this cluster epidemic was to spread HIV through heterosexual sex with a male case as the core, then cause the transmission within marriage and between fixed sexual partners. The combination of epidemiological investigation and molecular transmission network traceability survey supports the conclusion of this study.

OBOX regulates mouse zygotic genome activation and early development

Zygotic genome activation (ZGA) activates the quiescent genome to enable the maternal-to-zygotic transition1,2. However, the identity of transcription factors that underlie mammalian ZGA in vivo remains elusive. Here we show that OBOX, a PRD-like homeobox domain transcription factor family (OBOX1-OBOX8)3-5, are key regulators of mouse ZGA. Mice deficient for maternally transcribed Obox1/2/5/7 and zygotically expressed Obox3/4 had a two-cell to four-cell arrest, accompanied by impaired ZGA. The Obox knockout defects could be rescued by restoring either maternal and zygotic OBOX, which suggests that maternal and zygotic OBOX redundantly support embryonic development. Chromatin-binding analysis showed that Obox knockout preferentially affected OBOX-binding targets. Mechanistically, OBOX facilitated the 'preconfiguration' of RNA polymerase II, as the polymerase relocated from the initial one-cell binding targets to ZGA gene promoters and distal enhancers. Impaired polymerase II preconfiguration in Obox mutants was accompanied by defective ZGA and chromatin accessibility transition, as well as aberrant activation of one-cell polymerase II targets. Finally, ectopic expression of OBOX activated ZGA genes and MERVL repeats in mouse embryonic stem cells. These data thus demonstrate that OBOX regulates mouse ZGA and early embryogenesis.

Stable maternal proteins underlie distinct transcriptome, translatome, and proteome reprogramming during mouse oocyte-to-embryo transition

BACKGROUND

The oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET) converts terminally differentiated gametes into a totipotent embryo and is critically controlled by maternal mRNAs and proteins, while the genome is silent until zygotic genome activation. How the transcriptome, translatome, and proteome are coordinated during this critical developmental window remains poorly understood.

RESULTS

Utilizing a highly sensitive and quantitative mass spectrometry approach, we obtain high-quality proteome data spanning seven mouse stages, from full-grown oocyte (FGO) to blastocyst, using 100 oocytes/embryos at each stage. Integrative analyses reveal distinct proteome reprogramming compared to that of the transcriptome or translatome. FGO to 8-cell proteomes are dominated by FGO-stockpiled proteins, while the transcriptome and translatome are more dynamic. FGO-originated proteins frequently persist to blastocyst while corresponding transcripts are already downregulated or decayed. Improved concordance between protein and translation or transcription is observed for genes starting translation upon meiotic resumption, as well as those transcribed and translated only in embryos. Concordance between protein and transcription/translation is also observed for proteins with short half-lives. We built a kinetic model that predicts protein dynamics by incorporating both initial protein abundance in FGOs and translation kinetics across developmental stages.

CONCLUSIONS

Through integrative analyses of datasets generated by ultrasensitive methods, our study reveals that the proteome shows distinct dynamics compared to the translatome and transcriptome during mouse OET. We propose that the remarkably stable oocyte-originated proteome may help save resources to accommodate the demanding needs of growing embryos. This study will advance our understanding of mammalian OET and the fundamental principles governing gene expression.

Balancing selection on an MYB transcription factor maintains the twig trichome color variation in Melastoma normale

BACKGROUND

The factors that maintain phenotypic and genetic variation within a population have received long-term attention in evolutionary biology. Here the genetic basis and evolution of the geographically widespread variation in twig trichome color (from red to white) in a shrub Melastoma normale was investigated using Pool-seq and evolutionary analyses.

RESULTS

The results show that the twig trichome coloration is under selection in different light environments and that a 6-kb region containing an R2R3 MYB transcription factor gene is the major region of divergence between the extreme red and white morphs. This gene has two highly divergent groups of alleles, one of which likely originated from introgression from another species in this genus and has risen to high frequency (> 0.6) within each of the three populations under investigation. In contrast, polymorphisms in other regions of the genome show no sign of differentiation between the two morphs, suggesting that genomic patterns of diversity have been shaped by homogenizing gene flow. Population genetics analysis reveals signals of balancing selection acting on this gene, and it is suggested that spatially varying selection is the most likely mechanism of balancing selection in this case.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrate that polymorphisms on a single transcription factor gene largely confer the twig trichome color variation in M. normale, while also explaining how adaptive divergence can occur and be maintained in the face of gene flow.

Somatic nuclear blebbing in Caenorhabditis elegans is not a feature of organismal aging but a potential indicator of germline proliferation in early adulthood

Abnormal nuclear morphology is suggested to be a hallmark of aging and one such abnormality is nuclear blebbing. However, little is known about whether and how nuclear blebbing participates in animal aging, and what regulates it. In this study, we show that the frequency of nuclear blebbing in the hypodermis increases during aging in wild-type C. elegans. These nuclear blebs are enveloped by the nuclear lamina, the inner and the outer nuclear membrane, and 42% of them contain chromatin. Although nuclear blebbing could lead to DNA loss if chromatin-containing blebs detach and fuse with lysosomes, we find by time-lapse imaging that nuclear blebs rarely detach, and the estimated lifetime of a nuclear bleb is 772 h or 32 days. The amount of DNA lost through nuclear blebbing is estimated to be about 0.1% of the total DNA loss by adult Day 11. Furthermore, the frequency of nuclear blebbing does not correlate with the rate of aging in C. elegans. Old age does not necessarily induce nuclear blebbing, neither does starvation, heat stress, or oxidative stress. Intriguingly, we find that proliferation of germ cells promotes nuclear blebbing.

A Power Allocation Scheme for MIMO-NOMA and D2D Vehicular Edge Computing Based on Decentralized DRL

In vehicular edge computing (VEC), some tasks can be processed either locally or on the mobile edge computing (MEC) server at a base station (BS) or a nearby vehicle. In fact, tasks are offloaded or not, based on the status of vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. In this paper, device-to-device (D2D)-based V2V communication and multiple-input multiple-output and nonorthogonal multiple access (MIMO-NOMA)-based V2I communication are considered. In actual communication scenarios, the channel conditions for MIMO-NOMA-based V2I communication are uncertain, and the task arrival is random, leading to a highly complex environment for VEC systems. To solve this problem, we propose a power allocation scheme based on decentralized deep reinforcement learning (DRL). Since the action space is continuous, we employ the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG) algorithm to obtain the optimal policy. Extensive experiments demonstrate that our proposed approach with DRL and DDPG outperforms existing greedy strategies in terms of power consumption and reward.

Thinned young apple polyphenols may prevent neuronal apoptosis by up-regulating 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in the cerebral cortex of high-fat diet-induced diabetic mice

Apple polyphenols exert neuroprotective effects by improving the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle function, but the details of their mechanisms are still not fully understood. TCA cycle metabolites regulate the level of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) by affecting the ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzyme activity. Therefore, we hypothesized that thinned young apple polyphenols (TYAPs) inhibit neuronal apoptosis by up-regulating the level of 5hmC in the cerebral cortex of high-fat diet-induced diabetic mice. C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into 5 groups (n = 10 each group): the control (CON) group, the high-fat diet (HFD, negative control) group, the lovastatin (LOV, positive drug control) group, the resveratrol (RES, positive polyphenol control) group and the TYAP group during an eight-week intervention. The presented results verified that in the HFD group, the level of 5hmC and the expression of TET2 in the cerebral cortex were significantly lower, and the ratio of (succinic acid + fumaric acid)/α-ketoglutarate and the neuronal apoptosis rate were significantly higher than those in the CON group. However, TYAP intervention effectively restored the level of 5hmC through up-regulating the expression and activity of TET2, so as to improve diabetes symptoms and prevent diabetes-induced neuronal apoptosis.

A new species of Sedum (Crassulaceae) from Mount Danxia in Guangdong, China

Sedumjinglanii, a new species of Crassulaceae from Mount Danxia in Guangdong, China, is described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of nrDNA suggests that the new species belongs to S.sect.Sedum sensu Fu and Ohba (2001) in the "Flora of China", and is sister to a clade comprising S.alfredi and S.emarginatum with high support values (SH-aLRT = 84, UFBS = 95) but is distantly related to S.baileyi. The new species is morphologically similar to S.alfredi but it can be distinguished from the latter in its opposite leaves (vs. alternate leaves), its usually wider leaves (0.4-1.2 cm vs. 0.2-0.6 cm), its usually shorter petals (3.4-4.5 mm vs. 4-6 mm), its shorter nectar scales (0.4-0.5 mm vs. 0.5-1 mm), its shorter carpels (1.5-2.6 mm vs. 4-5 mm), and its shorter styles (0.6-0.9 mm vs. 1-2 mm). The new species can be easily distinguished from S.emarginatum which both have opposite leaves by its short, erect or ascending rhizome (vs. long and prostrate rhizome in the latter), shorter petals (3.4-4.5 mm vs. 6-8 mm) and shorter carpels (1.5-2.6 mm vs. 4-5 mm). It can also be easily distinguished from S.baileyi by its short, erect or ascending rhizome (vs. long and prostrate rhizome) and its shorter style (0.6-0.9 mm vs. 1-1.5 mm).

CELA1 Mediates Progressive Emphysema in Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency

Chymotrypsin-like elastase 1 ( CELA1 ) is a serine protease that is neutralized by α1-antitrypsin (AAT) and prevents emphysema in a murine antisense oligonucleotide model of AAT-deficient emphysema. Mice with genetic ablation of AAT do not have emphysema at baseline but develop emphysema with injury and aging. We tested the role of CELA1 in emphysema development in this genetic model of AAT -deficiency following tracheal lipopolysacharide (LPS), 8 months of cigarette smoke (CS) exposure, aging, and a low-dose tracheal porcine pancreatic elastase (LD-PPE) model. In this last model, we performed proteomic analysis to understand differences in lung protein composition. We were unable to show that AAT -/ - mice developed more emphysema than wild type with LPS. In the LD-PPE model, AAT -/- mice developed progressive emphysema from which Cela1 -/- &AAT -/- mice were protected. In the CS model, Cela1 -/- &AAT -/- mice had worse emphysema than AAT -/- , and in the aging model, 72-75 week-old Cela1 -/- &AAT -/- mice had less emphysema than AAT -/- mice. Proteomic analysis of AAT -/- vs. wildtype lungs in the LD-PPE model showed reduced amounts of AAT proteins and increased amounts of proteins related to Rho and Rac1 GTPases and protein oxidation. Similar analysis of Cela1 -/- &AAT -/- vs. AAT -/- lungs showed differences in neutrophil degranulation, elastin fiber synthesis, and glutathione metabolism. Thus, Cela1 prevents post-injury emphysema progression in AAT -deficiency, but it has no effect and potentially worsens emphysema in response to chronic inflammation and injury. Prior to developing anti-CELA1 therapies for AAT-deficient emphysema, an understanding of why and how CS exacerbates emphysema in Cela1 deficiency is needed.

Paraphlomisyingdeensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Guangdong (China)

Paraphlomisyingdeensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from the limestone area in northern Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analyses, based on two nuclear DNA regions (ITS and ETS) and three plastid DNA regions (rpl32-trnL, rps16 and trnL-trnF), suggest that P.yingdeensis represents a distinct species in Paraphlomis. Morphologically, P.yingdeensis is similar to P.foliatasubsp.montigena and P.nana, but can be distinguished from the former by its densely villous lamina and calyx, not decurrent base of lamina and bristle-like-acuminate apex of calyx teeth, and distinguished from the latter by its significantly taller plant (15-20 cm vs. 1-5 cm) and larger lamina (6.2-16.5 × 4-11.5 vs. 2-7 × 1.5-4 cm), densely villous stem, lamina and calyx and yellow corolla.

Laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair with preperitoneal closed-suction drainage reduced postoperative complications

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopic total extraperitoneal (TEP) inguinal hernia repair has the advantages of less bleeding, less trauma, less pain, and fast recovery, there are several issues that need to be addressed. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of preperitoneal closed‑suction drainage on reducing postoperative complications in TEP inguinal hernia repair.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 122 patients who underwent TEP inguinal hernia repair between June 2018 and June 2021 was performed. The patients were divided into the drainage group and the non-drainage group according to whether the drainage tube was placed or not. Clinical data, surgical procedures and outcome of these patients were collected and analyzed to assess the effectiveness of drainage.

RESULTS

A total of 122 patients undergoing TEP surgery were screened, of which 22 were excluded. Most of the patients were male with right indirect inguinal hernia. There was no difference in the mean length of hospital stay between the two groups. Postoperative pain was alleviated by preperitoneal closed‑suction drainage 24 h after operation (p = 0.03). The rate of complications such as scrotal edema, seroma and urinary retention in the drainage group was significantly lower than that in the non-drainage group (p < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that drainage was beneficial to reduce postoperative complications (OR, 0.015; 95% CI, 0.002-0.140; p < 0.01). In addition, it was worth noting that in subgroup analysis, patients with hernia sac volume > 10 cm³ might receive more clinical benefits by placing drainage tube.

CONCLUSION

In TEP inguinal hernia repair, placing drainage tube is a simple and feasible traditional surgical treatment, which can promote postoperative recovery without increasing the risk of infection, especially in patients with large hernia sac volume.

Transcriptome analysis of mesenteric arterioles changes and its mechanisms in cirrhotic rats with portal hypertension

Portal hypertension (PHT) is a major cause of liver cirrhosis. The formation of portosystemic collateral vessels and splanchnic vasodilation contribute to the development of hyperdynamic circulation, which in turn aggravates PHT and increases the risk of complications. To investigate the changes in mesenteric arterioles in PHT, cirrhotic rat models were established by ligating the common bile ducts. After 4 weeks, the cirrhotic rats suffered from severe PHT and splanchnic hyperdynamic circulation, characterized by increased portal pressure (PP), cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) flow. Mesenteric arterioles in cirrhotic rats displayed remarkable vasodilation, vascular remodeling, and hypocontractility. RNA sequencing was performed based on these findings. A total of 1,637 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected, with 889 up-regulated and 748 down-regulated genes. Signaling pathways related to vascular changes were enriched, including the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase-AKT (PI3K-AKT), and nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) signaling pathway, among others. Moreover, the top ten hub genes were screened according to the degree nodes in the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Functional enrichment analyses indicated that the hub genes were involved in cell cycle regulation, mitosis, and cellular response to oxidative stress and nitric oxide (NO). In addition, promising candidate drugs for ameliorating PHT, such as resveratrol, were predicted based on hub genes. Taken together, our study highlighted remarkable changes in the mesenteric arterioles of cirrhotic rats with PHT. Transcriptome analyses revealed the potential molecular mechanisms of vascular changes in splanchnic hyperdynamic circulation.

Commelinadanxiaensis (Commelinaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China

Commelinadanxiaensis (Commelinaceae), a remarkable new species from Mount Danxia, Guangdong Province, China, is described and illustrated. This species is similar to C.communis in inflorescences and flowers but readily distinguishable in its nearly erect stems, larger flowers, and different petal colouration.

Argostemmaehuangzhangense (Rubiaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China

Argostemmaehuangzhangense, a new Rubiaceae species from E'huangzhang Nature Reserve, Guangdong Province, China, is here described and illustrated. A morphological comparison between the new species and its putative relatives, A.lamxayanum, A.laotica and A.verticillatum, is presented. The new species is mostly similar to A.laotica, but they can be distinguished from each other since Argostemmaehuangzhangense presents solitary flower (vs. 2-flowered inflorescences), flower lobes 4 (vs. 5) and anthers opening by longitudinal slits (vs. apical pores). In a preliminary IUCN Red List status of Argostemmaehuangzhangense this species is assigned as Vulnerable (VU).

Eriobotryacrassifolia (Rosaceae), a new species from Yunnan Province, China

The new species Eriobotryacrassifolia, collected from Yunnan Province, China, is characterised and illustrated. A phylogeny based on chloroplast genomes supported its closest affinity with E.tengyuehensis, while a phylogeny based on 197 single-copy nuclear genes supported its closest affinity with E.fragrans and E.deflexa. Morphologically, however, it resembles E.angustissima. Nevertheless, it can be easily distinguished from E.angustissima by its abaxially retroflexed and sharply serrate leaf margins, densely rusty tomentose inflorescences, and oblong or elliptic leaves.

Wikstroemiafragrans (Thymelaeaceae, Daphneae), a new species from Mount Danxia, China based on morphological and molecular evidence

A new species, Wikstroemiafragrans (Thymelaeaceae, Daphneae), from Danxiashan National Park, Shaoguan, Guangdong of China is described and illustrated. It is similar to the sympatric W.trichotoma, but can be differentiated easily from the latter by its shorter racemose inflorescences, yellowish green calyx tube, and smaller leaves. It also resembles the allopatric W.fargesii, but differs from it by its strigose-pubescent ovary and disk scale that is 2- or 3-dentate apically. Phylogenetic analysis using the nuclear DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region revealed that W.fragrans falls within the Wikstroemia clade; based on current sampling, W.fragrans is closely-related to W.capitata. It is also the first species of Wikstroemia known to be endemic to the Danxia landform and is classified provisionally as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Translatome and transcriptome co-profiling reveals a role of TPRXs in human zygotic genome activation

Translational regulation plays a critical role during the oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET) and zygotic genome activation (ZGA). Here, we integrated ultra-low-input Ribo-seq with mRNA-seq to co-profile the translatome and transcriptome in human oocytes and early embryos. Comparison with mouse counterparts identified widespread differentially translated genes functioning in epigenetic reprogramming, transposon defense, and small RNA biogenesis, in part driven by species-specific regulatory elements in 3' untranslated regions. Moreover, PRD-like homeobox transcription factors, including TPRXL, TPRX1, and TPRX2, are highly translated around ZGA. TPRX1/2/L knockdown leads to defective ZGA and preimplantation development. Ectopically expressed TPRXs bind and activate key ZGA genes in human embryonic stem cells. These data reveal the conservation and divergence of translation landscapes during OET and identify critical regulators of human ZGA.

Pileadanxiaensis (Urticaceae), a new species in the Danxia landform from Guangdong, China including a description of the entire chloroplast genome

Pileadanxiaensis L.F.Fu, A.K.Monro & Y.G.Wei, a new species of Urticaceae from Danxia landform, Guangdong, China, is described and photographed. Phylogenetic analyses based on three DNA regions (ITS, trnL-F and rbcL) suggest that the new species belongs to P.sect.Pilea. Within the section, the new species is morphologically most similar to P.sinocrassifolia and P.peploides. Plastid genome and ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences of the new species are assembled and annotated. The plastid genome is 151,857 bp in length and comprises two inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,307 bp separated by a large single-copy of 82,836 bp and a small single-copy of 18,407 bp. A total of 113 functional genes are recovered, comprising 79 protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. A global conservation assessment suggests that P.danxiaensis should be classified as of Least Concern (LC).

Paraphlomisjinggangshanensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Jiangxi, China

Paraphlomisjinggangshanensis (Lamiaceae), a new species from Jiangxi Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to P.intermedia, but can be easily distinguished from the latter by its cordate leaf base (vs. cuneate, decurrent), stem and calyx tube with glandular hairs (vs. short pubescent), and glabrous anthers (vs. ciliate anthers). A phylogenetic analysis, based on ITS regions, suggests that P.jinggangshanensis represents a separate branch in Paraphlomis and is closely related to Clade II. It is currently known only from Jinggangshan National Natural Reserve. Because of its limited distribution and small population size, the species was assessed as Near Threatened (NT) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Knockdown of MAGE-A6 enhanced the irradiation sensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer cells by activating the AMPK pathway

Non-small cell lung cancer is a common respiratory tumor. The mortality rate of lung cancer patients has continued to rise in recent years. Several studies revealed that the expression of melanoma antigen 6 (MAGE-A6) promoted the development of multiple types of cancer. In addition, the suppression of AMPK pathway could restrict the radiosensitization of prostate cancer cells. Inhibition of MAGE-A6 activated the AMPK pathway in colorectal cancer cells. However, whether the MAGE-A6 could regulate the radiosensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer cells by regulating of the AMPK pathway is unclear. In this study, we established the MAGE-A6 knockdown in A549 and H1299 cells. Next, the apoptosis and proliferation of these cells were detected by the flow cytometry analysis and colony formation assay after the irradiation, respectively. Then, the expression of p-AMPKα1 and p-S6K1 in these cells was explored by the western blotting. After that, we inhibited the expression of AMPKα1 in MAGE-A6 knockdown cells. The proliferation and apoptosis of these cells were detected with colony formation assay and flow cytometry analysis. Finally, the tumor formation of these cells was detected in nude mice. Our results showed that inhibition of MAGE-A6 suppressed the proliferation and aggravated the apoptosis of A549 and H1299 cells after the irradiation. Knockdown of MAGE-A6 activated the expression of p-AMPKα1 and repressed the expression of p-S6K1 in these cells. Suppression of AMPKα1 in MAGE-A6 knockdown cells abolished these effects. Knockdown of MAGE-A6 also enhanced the radiosensitivity of these cells in vivo. These results suggested that inhibition of MAGE-A6 promoted the radiosensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer cells by activating AMPK pathway. Therefore, MAGE-6 has the potential to be explored as the therapeutic target for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer in clinical.

Anisotropic thermal and electrical transport properties induced high thermoelectric performance in an Ir2Cl2O2 monolayer

In recent years, the energy crisis and global warming have been urgent problems that need to be solved. As is known, thermoelectric (TE) materials can transfer heat energy to electrical energy without air pollution. High-throughput calculations as a novel approach are adopted by screening promising TE materials. In this paper, we use first-principles calculations combined with the semiclassical Boltzmann transport theory to estimate the TE performance of monolayer Ir₂Cl₂O₂ according to the prediction that Ir₂Cl₂O₂ has potential as a good TE material via high-throughput calculations. The low thermal conductivities of 1.73 and 4.68 W mK^-1 of Ir₂Cl₂O₂ along the x- and y-axes are calculated, respectively, which exhibits the strong anisotropy caused by the difference in group velocities of low-frequency phonon modes. Then, the electronic transport properties are explored, and the figure of merit ZT is eventually obtained. The maximum ZT value reaches 2.85 (0.40) along the x-axis (y-axis) at 700 K, revealing that the TE properties of the Ir₂Cl₂O₂ monolayer are highly anisotropic. This work reveals that the anisotropic layer Ir₂Cl₂O₂ exhibits high TE performance, which confirms that it is feasible to screen excellent TE materials via high-throughput calculations.

Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on the complete plastid genomes and nuclear sequences reveal Daphne (Thymelaeaceae) to be non-monophyletic as current circumscription

The diverse members of the genus Daphne are prized for their fragrant flowers. Despite being promising ornamental plants in many countries, genetic information of Daphne is scarce. In this study, the plastomes of four species and one variety of Daphne were sequenced and analyzed. The plastomes were typical and contained a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions that separated the large single-copy (LSC) region from the small single-copy (SSC) region. With a length ranging from 132,869 bp (D. genkwa) to 174,773 bp (D. championii), 106 to 141 genes were predicted. Comparative plastome analysis of the newly sequenced plastomes with four publicly available Daphne plastomes identified an expansion of the IRs, sequence variations, and mutational hotspots. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that the genus Daphne in its current circumscription is polyphyletic. Daphne genkwa was nested within the genus Wikstroemia, while D. championii was well resolved as sister to Edgeworthia. These findings concurred with results from our study that used nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer sequence data. The conflicts on the molecular placement of D. championii and D. genkwa and the present taxonomic classification in Daphne suggest that a new intergeneric classification system of Daphneae warrants consideration.

Biomimetic Hierarchically Silver Nanowire Interwoven MXene Mesh for Flexible Transparent Electrodes and Invisible Camouflage Electronics

Flexible transparent electrodes demand high transparency, low sheet resistance, as well as excellent mechanical flexibility simultaneously, however they still remain to be a great challenge due to"trade-off" effect. Herein, inspired by a hollow interconnected leaf vein, we developed robust transparent conductive mesh with biomimetic interwoven structure via hierarchically self-assembles silver nanowires interwoven metal carbide/nitride (MXene) sheets along directional microfibers. Strong interfacial interactions between plant fibers and conductive units facilitate hierarchically interwoven conductive mesh constructed orderly on flexible and lightweight veins while maintaining high transparency, effectively avoiding the trade-off effect between optoelectronic properties. The flexible transparent electrodes exhibit sheet resistance of 0.5 Ω sq^-1 and transparency of 81.6%, with a remarkably high figure of merit of 3523. In addition, invisible camouflage sensors are further successfully developed as a proof of concept that could monitor human body motion signals in an imperceptible state. The flexible transparent conductive mesh holds great potential in high-performance wearable optoelectronics and camouflage electronics.

Mouse lung organoid responses to reduced, increased, and cyclic stretch

Most lung development occurs in the context of cyclic stretch. Alteration of the mechanical microenvironment is a common feature of many pulmonary diseases, with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and fetal tracheal occlusion (FETO, a therapy for CDH) being extreme examples with changes in lung structure, cell differentiation, and function. To address limitations in cell culture and in vivo mechanotransductive models, we developed two mouse lung organoid (mLO) mechanotransductive models using postnatal day 5 (PND5) mouse lung CD326-positive cells and fibroblasts subjected to increased, decreased, and cyclic strain. In the first model, mLOs were exposed to forskolin (FSK) and/or disrupted (DIS) and evaluated at 20 h. mLO cross-sectional area changed by +59%, +24%, and -68% in FSK, control, and DIS mLOs, respectively. FSK-treated organoids had twice as many proliferating cells as other organoids. In the second model, 20 h of 10.25% biaxial cyclic strain increased the mRNAs of lung mesenchymal cell lineages compared with static stretch and no stretch. Cyclic stretch increased TGF-β and integrin-mediated signaling, with upstream analysis indicating roles for histone deacetylases, microRNAs, and long noncoding RNAs. Cyclic stretch mLOs increased αSMA-positive and αSMA-PDGFRα-double-positive cells compared with no stretch and static stretch mLOs. In this PND5 mLO mechanotransductive model, cell proliferation is increased by static stretch, and cyclic stretch induces mesenchymal gene expression changes important in postnatal lung development.

UPDATED UNDERSTANDING OF THE MOLECULAR TARGETS OF RADIOIODINE IN DIFFERENTIATED THYROID CANCER

Radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy is a mainstay adjuvant treatment for thyroid cancer. Administration of RAI therapy after total or near-total thyroidectomy has shown a survival advantage in numerous properly selected patients. However, the role of RAI therapy after reoperation for persistent or recurrent differentiated thyroid carcinomas (DTCs) is unclear. One reason may be the possible downregulation of the I- transport system after primary surgery. RAI is transported by the sodium iodide symporter (NIS), PENDRIN, anoctamin 1 (ANO1) and cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and emits β particles that destroy follicular cells. The identification of pathways of iodide (I-) transport has allowed use of the transport system to render tumours susceptible to RAI treatment via gene therapy. This review focuses on the effect of RAI therapy in follicular cell-derived thyroid cancers and offers potential novel targets that enable improved radioiodine uptake and thus an improved prognosis of thyroid cancer.