Unravelling Glucoraphanin and Glucoerucin Metabolism across Broccoli Sprout Development: Insights from Metabolite and Transcriptome Analysis

Variations in the concentration of glucoraphanin (GRA) and glucoerucin (GER), as well as the corresponding breakdown products, isothiocyanates (ITCs) and nitriles, were investigated during the growth of broccoli sprouts. The concentrations of GRA and GER decreased sharply from 33.66 µmol/g to 11.48 µmol/g and 12.98 µmol/g to 8.23 µmol/g, respectively, after seed germination. From the third to the seventh day, both GRA and GER were maintained as relatively stable. The highest concentrations of sulforaphane (17.16 µmol/g) and erucin (12.26 µmol/g) were observed on the first day. Hereafter, the concentrations of nitrile hydrolyzed from GRA or GER were higher than those of the corresponding ITCs. Moreover, the ratio of sulforaphane to sulforaphane nitrile decreased from 1.35 to 0.164 from 1 d to 5 d, with a similar trend exhibited for erucin/erucin nitrile after 2 d. RNA-seq analysis showed that BolMYB28 and BolCYP83A1, involved in aliphatic glucosinolate (GSL) biosynthesis, remained largely unexpressed until the third day. In contrast, the genes operating within the GSL-myrosinase hydrolysis pathway were highly expressed right from the beginning, with their expression levels increasing significantly after the third day. Additionally, we identified two BolESPs and six BolNSPs that might play important roles in promoting the production of nitriles during the development of broccoli sprouts.

Phase II clinical trial of neoadjuvant anti-PD-1 (toripalimab) combined with axitinib in resectable mucosal melanoma

BACKGROUND

The outcome of patients with resectable mucosal melanoma is poor. Toripalimab combined with axitinib has shown impressive results in metastatic mucosal melanoma with an objective response rate of 48.3% and a median progression-free survival of 7.5 months in a phase Ib trial. It was hypothesized that this combination administered in the neoadjuvant setting might induce a pathologic response in resectable mucosal melanoma, so we conducted this trial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This single-arm phase II trial enrolled patients with resectable mucosal melanoma. Patients received toripalimab 3 mg/kg once every 2 weeks (Q2W) plus axitinib 5 mg two times a day (b.i.d.) for 8 weeks as neoadjuvant therapy, then surgery and adjuvant toripalimab 3 mg/kg Q2W starting 2 ± 1weeks after surgery for 44 weeks. The primary endpoint was the pathologic response rate according to the International Neoadjuvant Melanoma Consortium recommendations.

RESULTS

Between August 2019 and October 2021, 29 patients were enrolled and received treatment, of whom 24 underwent resection. The median follow-up time was 34.2 months (95% confidence interval 20.4-48.0 months). The pathologic response rate was 33.3% (8/24; 4 pathological complete responses and 4 pathological partial responses). The median event-free survival for all patients was 11.1 months (95% confidence interval 5.3-16.9 months). The median overall survival was not reached. Neoadjuvant therapy was tolerable with 8 (27.5%) grade 3-4 treatment-related adverse events and no treatment-related deaths. Tissue samples of 17 patients at baseline and after surgery were collected (5 responders and 12 nonresponders). Multiplex immunohistochemistry demonstrated a significant increase in CD3+ (P = 0.0032) and CD3+CD8+ (P = 0.0038) tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes after neoadjuvant therapy, particularly in pathological responders.

CONCLUSIONS

Neoadjuvant toripalimab combined with axitinib in resectable mucosal melanoma demonstrated a promising pathologic response rate with significantly increased infiltrating CD3+ and CD3+CD8+ T cells after therapy.

A 43 Bp-Deletion in the F3'H Gene Reducing Anthocyanins Is Responsible for Keeping Buds Green at Low Temperatures in Broccoli

Most broccoli cultivars or accessions exhibit green buds under appropriate growth conditions, which turn purple at cold temperatures. However, certain cultivars consistently maintain green buds both during normal growth and at cold temperatures. In this study, we used BSA-seq (bulked segregation analysis-sequencing), along with fine mapping and transcriptome analysis to identify a candidate gene (flavonoid 3'-hydroxylase, F3'H) responsible for reducing anthocyanin accumulation in the mutant GS and HX-16 broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica), which could retain green buds even at low temperatures. A 43-bp deletion was detected in the coding sequence (CDS) of the F3'H gene in HX-16 and the mutant GS, which significantly decreased F3'H expression and the accumulation of cyanidin and delphinidin in the mutant GS. Furthermore, the expression of F3'H was upregulated at low temperatures in the wild line PS. Our results demonstrated the efficacy of utilizing the 43-bp InDel (Insertion-Deletion) in predicting whether buds in B. oleracea L. will turn purple or remain green at cold temperatures across forty-two germplasm materials. This study provides critical genetic and molecular insights for the molecular breeding of B. oleracea and sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the effect of low temperatures on bud color in broccoli.

Comparative Transcriptome and Targeted Metabolome Profiling Unravel the Key Role of Phenylpropanoid and Glucosinolate Pathways in Defense against Alternaria brassicicola in Broccoli

Alternaria brassicicola (Ab) can cause a major yield and quality-limiting disease of Brassica oleracea called black spot, and the genetic resources conferring complete resistance against Ab have not been identified to date. Here, comparative transcriptome and targeted metabolome analysis were performed utilizing a newly identified resistant (R) line and a broccoli susceptible (S) line at 6, 24, and 72 h post-inoculation (hpi). Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway enrichment and the weighted gene co-expression network analyses showed that the phenylpropanoid pathway regulates the resistance to Ab in broccoli. One metabolite, cinnamic acid, was significantly upregulated in the Ab_inoculated R line compared with the mock treatment but no significant difference in the S line, indicating that the cinnamic acid may cause the resistance difference between R and S lines. Our results also revealed that three indolic glucosinolates of I3G, 4MI3G, and 1MI3G were significantly increased in the Ab_inoculated R line compared with the mock treatment, and some related genes were differentially expressed between the R and S lines. These results provided new insights into the mechanism of Ab defense in B. oleracea and have laid a theoretical foundation for effectively utilizing resistant germplasm resources in broccoli breeding.

Establishment of a stable, effective and universal genetic transformation technique in the diverse species of Brassica oleracea

Brassica oleracea is an economically important species, including seven cultivated variants. Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of B. oleracea crops, mainly via hypocotyl and cotyledon, has been achieved in the past. However, previously established transformation methods showed low efficiency, severe genotype limitation and a prolonged period for transformants acquisition, greatly restricting its application in functional genomic studies and crop improvement. In this study, we have compared the shoot regeneration and genetic transformation efficiency of hypocotyl, cotyledon petiole and curd peduncle explants from twelve genotypes of cauliflower and broccoli. Finally, an Agrobacterium-mediated transformation method using curd peduncle as explant was established, which is rapid, efficient, and amenable to high-throughput transformation and genome editing. The average genetic transformation efficiency of this method is stable up to 11.87% and was successfully implemented in twelve different genotypes of cauliflower and broccoli and other B. oleracea crops with low genotype dependence. Peduncle explants were found to contain abundant cambial cells with a strong cell division and shoot regeneration ability, which might be why this method achieved stable and high genetic transformation efficiency with almost no genotype dependence.

Sequential left ventricular electro-mechanical changes in left bundle branch pacing vs right ventricular pacing a two-center study

Background

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) has been proved to maintain electrical synchrony better than RVP during mid to long-term follow-up, but little is known about the left ventricular (LV) mechanical changes over time. This study investigates if LBBP causes less sequential electro-mechanical alterations in LV that develop over time, compared with both conventional (CRVP) and leadless (LRVP) RVP.

Methods

Sixty-five patients with pacing indication for bradycardia were prospectively enrolled: Twenty-two were treated with LBBP, 23 with CRVP and 20 with LRVP. QRS duration (QRSd) was measured at baseline and during follow-up. All patients underwent echocardiography at baseline, one week after implantation and at one-year follow-up. LV volumes, ejection fraction (EF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were measured. Septal flash (SF), apical rocking and septal longitudinal strain patterns were assessed visually by two experienced readers.

Results

All the patients presented with normal strain pattern and no signs of SF or apical rocking at baseline. 100% of CRVP and 95% of LRVP patients had stage1 or 2 septal deformation patterns at week 1, and the majority (72.3% CRVP and 83.3% LRVP) progressed to stage≥2 at 12 months. On the contrary, over 2/3 of LBBP patients preserved normal strain patterns at week 1, and less than 1/3 had stage-1 pattern, 2 out of whom progressed to stage-2 during follow-up (Figure 1). At week 1 and 12 months, all RVP patients had SF, and most of them also exhibited apical rocking (87%-94.4% in CRVP and 80%-94.4% in LRVP). However, much less septal flash and apical rocking was induced in LBBP patients at week 1 and last follow-up (27.3%-37.5% and 22.7%-25%, P<0.001 vs RVP). Baseline QRSd were similar among three groups. At week 1, the paced QRSd increased least in LBBP compared to CRVP and LRVP and remained as such at 12 months. During one year follow-up, LVEF and LV GLS decreased more in CRVP group compared to LBBP (both P<0.05) (Figure 2).

Conclusion

LBBP causes less sequential changes in LV deformation patterns, septal flash and apical rocking, compared to CRVP and LRVP. With this, LBBP appears to preserve LV function better than RVP. CRVP and LRVP did not differ in electro-mechanical changes or LV remodeling.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) project grant

Left bundle branch pacing is superior in preserving ventricular mechanical synchrony and cardiac function than right ventricular pacing: a two-center experience

Background

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) has emerged as a novel pacing modality. Although it has been proved to maintain electrical synchrony better than right ventricular pacing (RVP), little is known about the impact on mechanical synchrony. This study investigates if LBBP preserves mechanical synchrony and cardiac function better compared to conventional (CRVP) and leadless (LRVP) RVP.

Methods

Sixty-five patients with pacing indication for bradycardia were prospectively enrolled: Twenty-two were treated with LBBP, 23 with CRVP and 20 with LRVP. All patients underwent echocardiography before and after implantation and at one-year follow-up. Left ventricular (LV) volumes, ejection fraction (EF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were measured. Regional septal (SW) and lateral wall work (LW) was calculated as the average from the respective basal and mid-ventricular segments in the apical four-chamber and three-chamber view. The lateral-septal work difference (LSWD) was used as a measure of mechanical dyssynchrony.

Results

At baseline, the QRS duration and LSWD were similar in all three groups. During follow-up, the QRS duration increased least in LBBP compared to CRVP and LRVP (+28.1±18.3ms vs +58.2±31.4 and 47.1±26.1ms, both P<0.01). SW was markedly decreased in CRVP and LRVP while LW work remained unchanged, resulting in a large LSWD compared to LBBP (1308.4±732.9 mmHg*% and 1451.3±606.1 mmHg*% vs. 286.0±479.9mmHg*%, both P<0.001). During one year follow-up, LVEF and LV GLS decreased more in CRVP compared to LBBP (both P<0.05).

Conclusion

LBBP causes less LV dyssynchrony than CRVP and LRVP as it preserves a more physiologic conduction pattern. With this, LBBP appears to preserve LV function better than CRVP. CRVP and LRVP did not differ in mechanical dyssynchrony or LV remodelling.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

High glucose inhibits the survival of HRMCs and its mechanism

OBJECTIVE

High glucose can promote the apoptosis of glomerular mesangial cells and cause diabetic nephropathy (DN). However, the mechanism remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the effects of high glucose on the survival of human renal mesangial cells (HRMCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cells were treated with high glucose (30 mM) or normal glucose (5 mM) for 48 hours. Cell proliferation was determined by trypan blue assay. The relative expression of metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP3) and inflammatory factors detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Protein expression of Smad2/3, p-Smad2/3 and Smad7 in HRMCs were analyzed by Western blot.

RESULTS

Compared with normal glucose, we found that high glucose significantly inhibited cell survival, accompanied by the decrease of tissue metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP3) mRNA expression. Western blot results showed that the expression of p-Smad2/3 was significantly up-regulated, the expression of Smad7 was significantly downregulated, and inflammatory factors IL-6/IL-8 mRNA expression were increased in the HRMCs cultured with the high glucose. We also found that, compared with the normal glucose, the level of MDA was significantly increased (p<0.01), and the level of SOD was significantly lower (p<0.05) in the HRMCs cultured with the high glucose.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggested that high glucose inhibited the survival of HRMCs and may be associated with the downregulation of TIMP3 expression, Smad signaling pathway, inflammation and oxidative stress.

Relationship of resting heart rate and blood pressure with all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate associations of resting heart rate (RHR) and blood pressure (BP) with all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

A total of 67,028 Chinese participants aged ≥60 years were included in the analysis. RHR, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were evaluated according to quartiles ([41-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-127 beats/min], [80-119, 120-129, 130-139, 140-238 mm Hg], and [40-70, 71-79, 80-84, 85-133 mm Hg]). Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of all-cause and CVD mortality with RHR, SBP, and DBP. Restricted cubic splines were used to evaluate the dose-response association.

RESULTS

During the 361,975 person-year follow-up, 9326 deaths were recorded, of which 5039 deaths were due to CVD. The risk of all-cause mortality was increased by 25% with the quartiles four vs quartile one of RHR (HR [95% CI]:1.25 [1.17-1.33]), and CVD mortality was increased by 32% (HR [95% CI]: 1.32 [1.22-1.44]). Similar results were observed when comparing the quartiles four vs quartile one of SBP with the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality (HRs [95% CIs]: 1.14 [1.07, 1.22] and 1.23 [1.12. 1.34]) and DBP with the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality (HRs [95% CIs]: 1.17 [1.11. 1.24] and 1.36 [1.26. 1.47]). We found linear associations of RHR, SBP, and DBP with all-cause and CVD mortality (P_{non-linearity} >0.05), except for the approximately J-shaped association between DBP and all-cause mortality (P_{non-linearity} = 0.008). There was a significant interaction of RHR and SBP with all-cause and CVD mortality (P_interaction <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

RHR and BP increased the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality, especially fast RHR combined with high SBP.

Left bundle branch pacing preserves ventricular mechanical synchrony better than right ventricular pacing-a two-center study

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) has emerged as a novel pacing method. We sought to evaluate left ventricular (LV) mechanical synchrony under permanent LBBP and compare it with conventional and leadless right ventricular pacing (CRVP, LRVP).

Methods

Sixty-four patients with pacing indication for bradycardia were prospectively enrolled. Twenty-two patients received LBBP in the basal ventricular septum. Twenty-three patients received CRVP and 19 LRVP. All patients underwent echocardiography before and after device implantation. Myocardial work was estimated by pressure-strain analysis. Regional work in the septum (SEP) and lateral wall (LW) was calculated as the average from the respective basal and mid-ventricular segments in the apical four-chamber and three-chamber view. The absolute difference between work in LW and SEP (LW-S-work difference) was used as a measure of asymmetry in workload.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar among the three groups. The electrocardiogram during LBBP showed a right bundle branch block pattern; during CRVP and LRVP a left bundle branch block pattern. The paced QRS duration was 114.27±9.9 ms in the LBBP group, significantly shorter than that in the CRVP and LRVP groups (153.9±25.26 ms and 159.1±13.99ms, respectively, both p&lt;0.001). The SEP work decreased in all groups during ventricular pacing (all P&lt;0.05), while the LW work remained similar. The paced LW-S work difference and work difference change between pacing on and off were more significant in the CRVP (1012.9±566.0mmHg*%) and LRVP group (1066.1±472.6mmHg*%) than the LBBP group (260.5±239.8mmHg*%, both P&lt;0.001). In addition, LW-S work difference during ventricular pacing and work difference change between pacing and baseline were comparable in CRVP and LRVP group.

Conclusion

LBBP causes less LV dyssynchrony than CRVP and LRVP as it preserves a more physiologic conduction pattern. CRVP and LRVP did not differ in this respect. Further studies need to prove that LBBP has advantages over RVP with regards to preservation of LV synchrony and contractility.

In vitro assessment of the DNA damage and senility of CD117+ stem cells collected from diabetic mice

OBJECTIVE

Angiogenesis impairment is a common feature of diabetes mellitus (DM), whereas CD117+ bone marrow cells (BMCs) injury might be responsible for such complication. In this study, we studied the effect of hyperglycemia on the DNA damage and senility of CD117+ bone marrow cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We isolated CD117+ BMCs from the Streptozotocin (STZ) induced diabetes and healthy control mice. Oxidative stress was detected by flow cytometric analysis. γ-H2AX, which is the DNA damage mark, was detected by using Western blotting and immunofluorescence histochemistry. We also detected the expression of γ-H2AX and p16 by using Western blotting.

RESULTS

Compared with the control mice, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was increased significantly in the CD117+ BMCs collected from the diabetic mice (p<0.05), and the percentage of γ-H2AX positive cells was higher significantly (p<0.01). The expression of γ-H2AX and p16 was increased significantly in the CD117+ BMCs from the diabetic mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experiments demonstrated the oxidative stress in CD117+ BMCs under DM conditions, while accelerating the DNA damage and senility in CD117+ BMCs as well.

Stability of a Novel PEGylation Site on a Putative Haemoglobin-Based Oxygen Carrier

PEGylation of protein sulfhydryl residues is a common method used to create a stable drug conjugate to enhance vascular retention times. We recently created a putative haemoglobin-based oxygen carrier using maleimide-PEG to selectively modify a single engineered cysteine residue in the α subunit (αAla19Cys). However, maleimide-PEG adducts are subject to deconjugation via retro-Michael reactions, with consequent cross-conjugation to endogenous plasma thiols such as those found on human serum albumin or glutathione. In previous studies mono-sulfone-PEG adducts have been shown to be less susceptible to deconjugation. We therefore compared the stability of our maleimide-PEG Hb adduct with one created using a mono-sulfone PEG. The corresponding mono-sulfone-PEG adduct was significantly more stable when incubated at 37 °C for 7 days in the presence of 1 mM reduced glutathione, 20 mg/mL human serum albumin, or human serum. In all cases haemoglobin treated with mono-sulfone-PEG retained >90% of its conjugation whereas maleimide-PEG showed significant deconjugation, especially in the presence of 1 mM reduced glutathione where <70% of the maleimide-PEG conjugate remained intact. Although maleimide-PEGylation of Hb seems adequate for an oxygen therapeutic intended for acute use, if longer vascular retention is required reagents such as mono-sulfone-PEG may be more appropriate.

Advances in Multi-Omics Approaches for Molecular Breeding of Black Rot Resistance in Brassica oleracea L

Brassica oleracea is one of the most important species of the Brassicaceae family encompassing several economically important vegetables produced and consumed worldwide. But its sustainability is challenged by a range of pathogens, among which black rot, caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc), is the most serious and destructive seed borne bacterial disease, causing huge yield losses. Host-plant resistance could act as the most effective and efficient solution to curb black rot disease for sustainable production of B. oleracea. Recently, 'omics' technologies have emerged as promising tools to understand the host-pathogen interactions, thereby gaining a deeper insight into the resistance mechanisms. In this review, we have summarized the recent achievements made in the emerging omics technologies to tackle the black rot challenge in B. oleracea. With an integrated approach of the omics technologies such as genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, it would allow better understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms underlying black rot resistance. Due to the availability of sequencing data, genomics and transcriptomics have progressed as expected for black rot resistance, however, other omics approaches like proteomics and metabolomics are lagging behind, necessitating a holistic and targeted approach to address the complex questions of Xcc-Brassica interactions. Genomic studies revealed that the black rot resistance is a complex trait and is mostly controlled by quantitative trait locus (QTL) with minor effects. Transcriptomic analysis divulged the genes related to photosynthesis, glucosinolate biosynthesis and catabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, ROS scavenging, calcium signalling, hormonal synthesis and signalling pathway are being differentially expressed upon Xcc infection. Comparative proteomic analysis in relation to susceptible and/or resistance interactions with Xcc identified the involvement of proteins related to photosynthesis, protein biosynthesis, processing and degradation, energy metabolism, innate immunity, redox homeostasis, and defence response and signalling pathways in Xcc-Brassica interaction. Specifically, most of the studies focused on the regulation of the photosynthesis-related proteins as a resistance response in both early and later stages of infection. Metabolomic studies suggested that glucosinolates (GSLs), especially aliphatic and indolic GSLs, its subsequent hydrolysis products, and defensive metabolites synthesized by jasmonic acid (JA)-mediated phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway are involved in disease resistance mechanisms against Xcc in Brassica species. Multi-omics analysis showed that JA signalling pathway is regulating resistance against hemibiotrophic pathogen like Xcc. So, the bonhomie between omics technologies and plant breeding is going to trigger major breakthroughs in the field of crop improvement by developing superior cultivars with broad-spectrum resistance. If multi-omics tools are implemented at the right scale, we may be able to achieve the maximum benefits from the minimum. In this review, we have also discussed the challenges, future prospects, and the way forward in the application of omics technologies to accelerate the breeding of B. oleracea for disease resistance. A deeper insight about the current knowledge on omics can offer promising results in the breeding of high-quality disease-resistant crops.

Molecular Breeding Strategy and Challenges Towards Improvement of Downy Mildew Resistance in Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.)

Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.) is one of the important, nutritious and healthy vegetable crops grown and consumed worldwide. But its production is constrained by several destructive fungal diseases and most importantly, downy mildew leading to severe yield and quality losses. For sustainable cauliflower production, developing resistant varieties/hybrids with durable resistance against broad-spectrum of pathogens is the best strategy for a long term and reliable solution. Identification of novel resistant resources, knowledge of the genetics of resistance, mapping and cloning of resistance QTLs and identification of candidate genes would facilitate molecular breeding for disease resistance in cauliflower. Advent of next-generation sequencing technologies (NGS) and publishing of draft genome sequence of cauliflower has opened the flood gate for new possibilities to develop enormous amount of genomic resources leading to mapping and cloning of resistance QTLs. In cauliflower, several molecular breeding approaches such as QTL mapping, marker-assisted backcrossing, gene pyramiding have been carried out to develop new resistant cultivars. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) would be beneficial in improving the precision in the selection of improved cultivars against multiple pathogens. This comprehensive review emphasizes the fascinating recent advances made in the application of molecular breeding approach for resistance against an important pathogen; Downy Mildew (Hyaloperonospora parasitica) affecting cauliflower and Brassica oleracea crops and highlights the QTLs identified imparting resistance against this pathogen. We have also emphasized the critical research areas as future perspectives to bridge the gap between availability of genomic resources and its utility in identifying resistance genes/QTLs to breed downy mildew resistant cultivars. Additionally, we have also discussed the challenges and the way forward to realize the full potential of molecular breeding for downy mildew resistance by integrating marker technology with conventional breeding in the post-genomics era. All this information will undoubtedly provide new insights to the researchers in formulating future breeding strategies in cauliflower to develop durable resistant cultivars against the major pathogens in general and downy mildew in particular.

Development of GBTS and KASP Panels for Genetic Diversity, Population Structure, and Fingerprinting of a Large Collection of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) in China

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) is one of the most important and nutritious vegetables widely cultivated in China. In the recent four decades, several improved varieties were bred and developed by Chinese breeders. However, the efforts for improvement of broccoli are hindered by limited information of genetic diversity and genetic relatedness contained within the available germplasms. This study evaluated the genetic diversity, genetic relationship, population structure, and fingerprinting of 372 accessions of broccoli representing most of the variability of broccoli in China. Millions of SNPs were identified by whole-genome sequencing of 23 representative broccoli genotypes. Through several stringent selection criteria, a total of 1,167 SNPs were selected to characterize genetic diversity and population structure. Of these markers, 1,067 SNPs were genotyped by target sequencing (GBTS), and 100 SNPs were genotyped by kompetitive allele specific PCR (KASP) assay. The average polymorphism information content (PIC) and expected heterozygosity (gene diversity) values were 0.33 and 0.42, respectively. Diversity analysis revealed the prevalence of low to moderate genetic diversity in the broccoli accessions indicating a narrow genetic base. Phylogenetic and principal component analyses revealed that the 372 accessions could be clustered into two main groups but with weak groupings. STRUCTURE analysis also suggested the presence of two subpopulations with weak genetic structure. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) identified 13% variance among populations and 87% within populations revealing very low population differentiation, which could be attributed to massive gene flow and the reproductive biology of the crop. Based on high resolving power, a set of 28 KASP markers was chosen for DNA fingerprinting of the broccoli accessions for seed authentication and varietal identification. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive study to measure diversity and population structure of a large collection of broccoli in China and also the first application of GBTS and KASP techniques in genetic characterization of broccoli. This work broadens the understanding of diversity, phylogeny, and population structure of a large collection of broccoli, which may enhance future breeding efforts to achieve higher productivity.

Investigation on the Efficiency of Chinese Herbal Injections for Treating Non-small Cell Lung Cancer With Vinorelbine and Cisplatin Based on Multidimensional Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis

Background: As non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) seriously threatens human health, several clinical studies have reported that Chinese herbal injections (CHIs) combined with vinorelbine and cisplatin (NP) are beneficial. This multidimensional network meta-analysis was performed to explore the preferable options among different CHIs for treating NSCLC.

Methods: A literature search was performed in several databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CHIs in the treatment of NSCLC from inception to January 31, 2019. Final included studies met the eligibility criteria and methodological quality recommendations. Data analysis was performed using Stata 13.0 and WinBUGS 14.0 software. Each outcome was presented as an odds ratio and the surface under the cumulative ranking curve value (SCURA). The “scatterplot3d” package in R 3.6.1 software was used to perform multidimensional cluster analysis.

Results: Ultimately, 97 eligible RCTs involving 7,440 patients and 14 CHIs were included in this network meta-analysis. Combined with NP chemotherapy, Kanglaite injection plus NP exhibited a better impact on the clinical effectiveness rate (SCURA probability: 78.34%), and Javanica oil emulsion injection plus NP was better in the performance status (95.44%). Huachansu injection plus NP was dominant in reducing thrombocytopenia (92.67%) and gastrointestinal reactions (92.52%). As to multidimensional cluster analysis, Shenmai injection plus NP was superior considering improving the clinical effectiveness rate, performance status and relieving leukopenia.

Conclusions: The combination of CHIs and NP has a better impact on patients with NSCLC than NP alone. Among them, Shenmai injection plus NP, Kanglaite injection plus NP and Javanica oil emulsion injection plus NP were notable. Nevertheless, more multicenter and better designed RCTs are needed to validate our findings.

A Priori Sample Size Determination for the Number of Subjects in an EEG Experiment

This paper represents a first attempt to perform a priori sample size determination from a "historic" Electroencephalography (EEG) dataset. The importance of adequate sample size is firstly highlighted, and evidence is given against the use of normal distribution for such computations, when the data cannot be assumed to be Gaussian. The "historic" dataset is then thoroughly examined to determine the least less likely underlying distribution for the desired phenomenon, in this case the spontaneous blinks potential. Two Monte Carlo simulations, using different distribution assumptions, are subsequently computed to estimate the a priori minimum sample size. Finally, these choices are discussed considering practical limitations, as well as the computational differences for other phenomena to study.

Natural Variation of Glucosinolates and Their Breakdown Products in Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) Seeds

Seeds of 32 pure lines and 6 commercial broccoli cultivars were used to investigate variation in glucosinolates and their breakdown products. The aliphatic glucosinolate content was 54.5-218.7 μmol/g fresh weight, accounting for >90% of the total glucosinolates. The major glucosinolates found were glucoraphanin and glucoerucin in 27 samples and progoitrin in 7 samples. A gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID) method was used to identify glucosinolate breakdown products; nine products were directly determined using standards. Using Arabidopsis thaliana lines myb28myb29 and Landsberg erecta to hydrolyze each reference glucosinolate, seven products were tentatively identified. 4-(Methylsulfinyl)butyl isothiocyanate and 5-(methylsulfinyl)pentanenitrile contents were 2.6-91.1 μmol/g fresh weight and 0-35.4 μmol/g fresh weight, respectively, with epithionitriles being more common than nitriles in accessions rich in alkenyl glucosinolate. Additionally, (S)-5-vinyl-1,3-oxazolidine-2-thione was detected in accessions rich in progoitrin. Specific lines with altered glucosinolate profiles and breakdown products were obtained and discussed according to the putative glucosinolate metabolism pathway.

A new algorithm for blink correction adaptive to inter- and intra-subject variability

Electroencephalographic (EEG) signals are constantly superimposed with biological artifacts. In particular, spontaneous blinks represent a recurrent event that cannot be easily avoided. The main goal of this paper is to present a new algorithm for blink correction (ABC) that is adaptive to inter- and intra-subject variability. The whole process of designing a Brain-Computer Interface (BCI)-based EEG experiment is highlighted. From sample size determination to classification, a mixture of the standardized low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) for source localization and time restriction, followed by Riemannian geometry classifiers is featured. Comparison between ABC and the commonly-used Independent Component Analysis (ICA) for blinks removal shows a net amelioration with ABC. With the same pipeline using uncorrected data as a reference, ABC improves classification by 5.38% in average, whereas ICA deteriorates by -2.67%. Furthermore, while ABC accurately reconstructs blink-free data from simulated data, ICA yields a potential difference up to 200% from the original blink-free signal and an increased variance of 30.42%. Finally, ABC's major advantages are ease of visualization and understanding, low computation load favoring simple real-time implementation, and lack of spatial filtering, which allows for more flexibility during the classification step.

Construction of a high-density genetic map and identification of loci controlling purple sepal trait of flower head in Brassica oleracea L. italica

BACKGROUND

Some broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. italic) accessions have purple sepals and cold weather would deepen the purple color, while the sepals of other broccoli lines are always green even in cold winter. The related locus or gene is still unknown. In this study, a high-density genetic map was constructed based on specific locus amplified fragment (SLAF) sequencing in a doubled-haploid segregation population with 127 individuals. And mapping of the purple sepal trait in flower heads based on phenotypic data collected during three seasons was performed.

RESULTS

A genetic map was constructed, which contained 6694 SLAF markers with an average sequencing depth of 81.37-fold in the maternal line, 84-fold in the paternal line, and 15.76-fold in each individual population studied. In all of the annual data recorded, three quantitative trait loci (QTLs) were identified that were all distributed within the linkage group (LG) 1. Among them, a major locus, qPH.C01-2, located at 36.393 cM LG1, was consistently detected in all analysis. Besides this locus, another two minor loci, qPH.C01-4 and qPH.C01-5, were identified near qPH.C01-2, based on the phenotypic data from spring of 2018.

CONCLUSION

The purple sepal trait could be controlled by a major single locus and two minor loci. The genetic map and location of the purple sepal trait of flower heads provide an important foundation for mapping other compound traits and the identification of the genes related to purple sepal trait in broccoli.

Construction of a High-Density Genetic Map and Identification of Loci Related to Hollow Stem Trait in Broccoli (Brassic oleracea L. italica)

A high-quality genetic map is important for mapping of compound traits. In this study, a genetic map was constructed based on the reference genome TO1000 after specific locus amplified fragment (SLAF) sequencing in a double-haploid segregation population of broccoli, and loci controlling hollow stem trait were identified in the genetic map. The genetic map contains 4,787 SLAF markers, with a mean marker distance of 0.22 cM and the mean sequencing depths of 91.14-fold in the maternal line, 88.97-fold in the paternal line and 17.11-fold in each DH progeny. A locus controlling the hollow stem trait, QHS.C09-2, which could explain 14.1% of the phenotypic variation, was steadily detected on the linkage group nine in the indicated data of 3 years' trials and BLUE analysis. The genetic map could lay an important foundation for mapping of compound traits, and mapping of hollow stem trait would be basis to clone the genes related to hollow stems in broccoli.

Orchestration of protein acetylation as a toggle for cellular defense and virus replication

Emerging evidence highlights protein acetylation, a prevalent lysine posttranslational modification, as a regulatory mechanism and promising therapeutic target in human viral infections. However, how infections dynamically alter global cellular acetylation or whether viral proteins are acetylated remains virtually unexplored. Here, we establish acetylation as a highly-regulated molecular toggle of protein function integral to the herpesvirus human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) replication. We offer temporal resolution of cellular and viral acetylations. By interrogating dynamic protein acetylation with both protein abundance and subcellular localization, we discover finely tuned spatial acetylations across infection time. We determine that lamin acetylation at the nuclear periphery protects against virus production by inhibiting capsid nuclear egress. Further studies within infectious viral particles identify numerous acetylations, including on the viral transcriptional activator pUL26, which we show represses virus production. Altogether, this study provides specific insights into functions of cellular and viral protein acetylations and a valuable resource of dynamic acetylation events.

The dynamics of protein acetylation during infection remains unexplored. Here, Murray et al. characterize spatio-temporal acetylations of both cellular and viral proteins during HCMV infection, providing new functional insights into the host-virus acetylome that might help identify new antiviral targets.

Research Progress on InDel Genetic Marker in Forensic Science

Genetic markers in forensic DNA typing experienced the variable number of tandem repeats （VNTR） sequences and the short tandem repeats （STR） sequences. With the emerge of sequencing technology, the third generation of genetic markers were found out, which usually have two alleles including single nucleotide polymorphism （SNP） and insertion/deletion （InDel）, also known as biallelic genetic markers. Because of the insertions or deletions of DNA fragments, InDel genetic marker reveals DNA fragment length polymorphism and widely distributes across the whole genome. InDel genetic marker is numerous and has the characteristics of STR and SNP genetic markers, which has been applied in the fields of genetics and anthropology. This review focuses on the research progress of InDel genetic marker in forensic science, aiming to review and summarize the main research findings in recent years and provide clues for future researches.

Co-Existence of Novel PDE6A Mutations and A Recurrent RPGR Mutation: A Potential Explanation for Phenotypic Diversity in Female RPGR Mutation Carriers

BACKGROUND

To report the co-existence of novel biallelic PDE6A mutations and heterozygous RPGR mutation in a Chinese female patient with retinitis pigmentosa (RP), and to analyze the intrafamilial phenotypic diversity.

METHODS

Three patients with retinopathy and four healthy family members were included in genetic and clinical analyses. Personal medical records were obtained from another four unaffected female family members who refused blood donation. Family history was carefully recorded. Each patient received comprehensive ophthalmic tests. Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) approach was performed on the proband to determine the retinopathy causative mutation for this family. In silico analysis was also applied to analyze the pathogenesis of identified mutations.

RESULTS

The two recruited male patients were diagnosed with RP, and the female patient RP sine pigmento (RPSP). Genetic assessments revealed a recurrent RPGR mutation, c.1926_1927insA, carried by all three patients and segregated the disease status. Three other unaffected female family members were confirmed as carriers for the identified RPGR mutation, and another four as obligate carriers. Interestingly, of all the eight female RPGR mutation carriers in this family, only one female developed retinal dystrophy. Comprehensive genetic analysis of this patient unraveled additional biallelic PDE6A mutations, c.[1066-9delT];[2324delG], carried solely by this individual.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, we hypothesize that the phenotypic variability presented by female RPGR mutation carriers may be attributed to the co-existence of other disease-causative mutations. Our study also emphasizes the importance of comprehensive genetic analysis in these female carriers, which will contribute to better diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment for these patients.

[Assessment on Application of 24 Y-STR Loci in Forensic Science]

OBJECTIVES

To select a Y-STR marker system with strong haplotype identification ability, appropriate mutation rate and high compatibility and to assess its forensic application.

METHODS

The 24 Y-STR loci were tested by self-built fluorescent multiplex system, and the forensic assessment was conducted by 139 pairs of father-son samples collected in Jinan, Shandong province.

RESULTS

Totally 176 alleles were identified among the 24 Y-STR loci in the sample of 139 unrelated individuals labeled with father, and the gene diversity （GD） distributed between 0.083 7 （DYS645）-0.966 9 （DYS385a/b）. According to the 24 Y-STR loci, 139 different haplotypes were detected from 139 unrelated male individuals labeled with father in Han population of Shandong province and with no shared haplotype observed. The overall haplotype diversity （HD） was 1 and the discrimination capacity （DC） was 1. A total of 5 one-step mutations events were observed among the 24 Y-STR loci in 139 pairs of father-son. The average mutation rate was 0.001 5 [95% CI （0.000 5, 0.003 5）].

CONCLUSIONS

The system of 24 Y-STR loci shows a strong individual recognition ability and low mutation rate in the population in Jinan, Shandong province, and it has good application value in forensic science.

Recombinant phosphoglucomutase and CAMP factor as potential subunit vaccine antigens induced high protection against Streptococcus iniae infection in flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus)

AIMS

The aim of this study was to screen vaccine candidates from virulence factors of Streptococcus iniae in flounder model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The immunogenicity of recombinant phosphoglucomutase (rPGM) and rCAMP factor was confirmed by Western blot. The percentage of surface membrane immunoglobulin-positive (sIg⁺ ) lymphocytes in peripheral blood leucocytes, the specific and total serum IgM and the activity of acid phosphatase (ACP) and peroxidase (POD) in flounder were determined with flow cytometry, ELISA and commercial enzyme activity kits, respectively, after intraperitoneal immunization with rPGM and rCAMP factor. The results showed that rPGM and rCAMP factor could induce significant rise in sIg⁺ lymphocytes, specific serum IgM and activities of ACP and POD. Additionally, the relative percent survival rate of the vaccinated flounder was 64 and 54% in challenge experiment using S. iniae, respectively. These results indicated that rPGM and rCAMP factor could evoke humoural and innate immune response in flounder and provide high-efficiency immunoprotection against S. iniae infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Phosphoglucomutase (PGM) and CAMP factor were promising vaccine candidates against S. iniae in flounder.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Phosphoglucomutase and CAMP factor have the potential to be vaccine candidates, which provide important information for us to develop the effective subunit vaccines, especially the multivaccine, against S .iniae in aquaculture.

[Forensic Application of SiFaSTR™ 23plex DNA ID System in Han Population of Eastern China]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the genetic polymorphism of 21 autosomal STR loci and DYS391 locus of SiFaSTR™ 23plex DNA ID system in Han population of eastern China and to evaluate its application value in forensic science.

METHODS

Typing test of 2 000 unrelated individuals was performed using SiFaSTR™ 23plex DNA ID system. The population genetic parameters of STR loci were statistically analysed. A total of 3 198 parentage confirmed cases were detected with that system and the mutation conditions were observed in 21 autosomal STR loci.

RESULTS

All the 21 autosomal STR loci showed no significant departure from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium （P>0.05）. The Ho ranged from 0.617 5 to 0.927 0. The DP ranged from 0.796 4 to 0.986 9, as well as the PIC distributed from 0.561 1 to 0.912 3. The CDP was 0.999 999 999 999 999. The CPE_duo was 0.999 997 431 701 961, while CPE_trio was 0.999 999 999 654 865. Five alleles were detected in DYS391 locus, with the allele frequency from 0.004 0 to 0.729 0, and GD was 0.418 9. Except D13S317 and D10S1248, seventy-six mutation events were observed at the rest nineteen autosomal STR loci. Among them, seventy-five （98.68%） were one step mutation, and only one （1.32%） was three steps mutation. The mutation rate ranged from 0.246 5×10⁻³ to 2.711 4×10⁻³, and the averaged mutation rate was 0.892 1×10⁻³ （95% CI： 0.70×10⁻³-1.10×10⁻³）. In 33 trio mutation cases, the proportion of the paternal mutation and the maternal mutation was 2.09:1.

CONCLUSIONS

The involved STRs are highly polymorphic in Eastern Han population with acceptable mutation rates by the SiFaSTR™ 23plex DNA ID system, which is suitable for paternity testing and individual identification.

Efficacy and safety of uninterrupted low-intensity warfarin for cryoballoon ablation of atrial fibrillation in the elderly: A pilot study

WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Uninterrupted warfarin during cryoballoon ablation (CB-A) of atrial fibrillation (AF) has been widely accepted. However, to our knowledge, no previous studies exist investigating the optimal intensity of anticoagulation with warfarin for CB-A. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of uninterrupted low-intensity warfarin for CB-A of AF in the elderly.

METHODS

Paroxysmal AF patients (age ≥ 70 years) who underwent CB-A were enrolled prospectively. The participants were stratified into 2 groups based on international normalized ratio (INR) before ablation (INR in group A: 1.5 to 2.0; INR in group B: 2.0-2.5). Primary endpoints included periprocedural thromboembolic complications and major bleeding. Secondary endpoints were new asymptomatic cerebral emboli (ACE) and minor bleeding.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

A total of 144 patients were enrolled (group A: 65; group B: 79). In group A, the use of concomitant antiplatelet drugs was more common. Also, the mean HAS-BLED score was significantly higher (2.4 ± 0.8 vs 2.0 ± 0.6, P < .01) and the mean activated clotting time (ACT) during the procedure was significantly lower (302 ± 14 s vs 311 ± 11 s, P < .01). Other clinical characteristics were balanced between the 2 groups. No thromboembolic complications and major bleeding occurred in either group. The incidence of periprocedural ACE was comparable between the 2 groups (9.2% vs 6.3%, P = .74). The incidence of minor bleeding in group A and group B was 4.6% and 11.4%, respectively (P = .14).

WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION

Compared with standard-intensity warfarin, uninterrupted low-intensity warfarin might not increase the incidence of thromboembolic complications and might be associated with less bleeding risk during the perioperative period of cryoballoon ablation in the elderly. Large trials are needed to confirm these results.

[Forensic Application of HuaxiaTM Platinum Kit]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the genetic polymorphism of 23 autosomal STR loci of Huaxia™ Platinum kit in Chinese Han population, and to evaluate the forensic efficiency of Huaxia™ Platinum kit.

METHODS

A total of 500 unrelated healthy individuals from Han population were genotyped with Huaxia™ Platinum kit. The frequency distribution and the parameter of population genetics of STR loci were analysed statistically. Huaxia™ Platinum kit was compared with other 7 commercial STR kits commonly seen at home and abroad in the number of STR loci, interior label, fluorescent mark, total number of alleles in Ladder and system effectiveness.

RESULTS

All the 23 autosomal STR loci were consistent with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium （P>0.05）. The discrimination power was 0.791 5-0.986 2. The polymorphism information content （PIC） was 0.559 0-0.914 0. The combined discrimination power （CDP） was 1-4.1×10⁻²⁸, while combined probability of paternity exclusion in trio （CPET） and in duo （CPED） were 1-4.1×10⁻¹⁰ and 1-8.4×10⁻⁷, respectively. Compared with other 7 kits, Huaxia™ Platinum kit contained the most number of alleles within the Ladder.

CONCLUSIONS

All the 23 autosomal STR loci of Huaxia™ Platinum kit with highly polymorphic in Han population can be used for paternity testing and individual identification. Compared with other 7 kits, it appears that Huaxia™ Platinum kit can provide more genetic information.