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In this study, we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of Thermophis shangrila by using the next-generation sequencing technique. The total length of the mitogenome was 17,407 bp, which was composed of 13 protein coding genes, two rRNA genes (12s and 16s rRNA), 22 tRNA genes, and two control regions (CRI and CRII). The base composition was 32.6% for A, 23.9% for T, 30.0% for C, and 13.5% for G. We added a fragment about 150 bp in length at control region I, which Peng et al. failed to obtain using Sanger dideoxy sequencing.

Adaptations can endow species with complex traits that enable them to occupy new niches. To adapt to the arboreal lifestyle, treefrogs have evolved a suite of complex traits for climbing and gliding; to date, however, the molecular mechanisms underpinning these adaptations are unknown. Here, based on two de novo-assembled Asian treefrog genomes, genes related to limb development showed evidence of accelerated evolution. Furthermore, the PPL gene that regulates the keratin cytoskeleton showed conservative substitution within the genus Rhacophorus. These genetic changes contribute to limb and toe-pad morphogenesis, providing fundamental adaptations for climbing and grasping. Behavioral and morphological comparisons clarified the gliding function of interdigital webbing and the different developmental patterns between fully and weakly webbed feet. Time-ordered gene coexpression network analysis of gliding Rhacophorus kio and nongliding Rhacophorus dugritei tadpoles revealed specific coexpression patterns for fully webbed feet, which involved the Wnt signaling and vascular remodeling pathways. These findings highlight the molecular basis of phenotypes that facilitate expansion into new niches and provide insights into the importance of local adaptation in shaping phenotypes and locomotion patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which performed systematic biogeographical analysis of the genus Polypedates. Topics covered include the impact of climate fluctuations on species diversification within the genus Polypedates, its geographical range evolution from the Oligocene to present, and the recent introduction of Polypedates leucomystax to the Philippines and the Ryukyu Islands, Japan.

Aim: The aim of the present study is to establish a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) model of valproate (VPA) in Chinese epileptic children to promote the reasonable use of anti-epileptic drugs. Methods: Sparse data of VPA serum concentrations from 417 epileptic children were collected. These patients were divided into 2 groups: the PPK model group ( n=317) and the PPK valid group (n=100). The PPK parameter values of VPA were calculated by NONMEM software using the data of the PPK model group. A basic model and a final model were set up. To validate the 2 models, the concentrations of PPK valid group were predicted by each model, respectively. The mean prediction error (MPE), mean squared prediction error (MSPE), root mean squared prediction error (RMSPE), weight residues (WRES), and the 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were also calculated. Then, the values between the 2 models were compared. Results: The PPK of VPA was determined by a 1-compartment model with a first-order absorption process. The basic model was: Ka=3.09 (h−1), V/F=20.4 (L), CL/F=0.296 (L/h). The final model was: Ka=0.251+2.24·(1-HS) (h−1), V/F=2.88+0.157·WT (L), CL/F=0.1060.98·CO+ 0.0157·AGE (L/h). For the basic model, the MPE, MSPE, RMSPE, WRES, and the 95% CI were −23.53 (−30.36, −16.70), 3728.96 (2872.72, 4585.20), 39.62 (34.34, 44.90), and −0.06 (−0.14, 0.02), respectively. For the final model, the MPE, MSPE, RMSPE, WRES, and the 95% CI were −1.16 (−4.85, 2.53), 1002.83 (1050.64, 1143.61), 23.04 (21.12, 24.96), and 0.08 (−0.04, 0.20), respectively. The final model was more optimal than the basic model. Conclusion: The PPK model of VPA in Chinese epileptic children was successfully established. It will be valuable to facilitate individualized dosage regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]