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Summary: Plant breeding is constrained by trade‐offs among different agronomic traits by the pleiotropic nature of many genes. Genes that contribute to two or more favourable traits with no penalty on yield are rarely reported, especially in wheat. Here, we describe the editing of a wheat auxin response factor TaARF12 by using CRISPR/Cas9 that rendered shorter plant height with larger spikes. Changes in plant architecture enhanced grain number per spike up to 14.7% with significantly higher thousand‐grain weight and up to 11.1% of yield increase under field trials. Weighted Gene Co‐Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) of spatial–temporal transcriptome profiles revealed two hub genes: RhtL1, a DELLA domain‐free Rht‐1 paralog, which was up‐regulated in peduncle, and TaNGR5, an organ size regulator that was up‐regulated in rachis, in taarf12 plants. The up‐regulation of RhtL1 in peduncle suggested the repression of GA signalling, whereas up‐regulation of TaNGR5 in spike may promote GA response, a working model supported by differential expression patterns of GA biogenesis genes in the two tissues. Thus, TaARF12 complemented plant height reduction with larger spikes that gave higher grain yield. Manipulation of TaARF12 may represent a new strategy in trait pyramiding for yield improvement in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diversity surveys of germplasm are important for gaining insight into the genomic basis for crop improvement; especially InDels, which are poorly understood in hexaploid common wheat. Here, we describe a map of 89,923 InDels from exome sequencing of 262 accessions of a Chinese wheat mini-core collection. Population structure analysis, principal component analysis and selective sweep analysis between landraces and cultivars were performed. Further genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified five QTL (Quantitative Trait Loci) that were associated with spike length, two of them, on chromosomes 2B and 6A, were detected in 10 phenotypic data sets. Assisted with RNA-seq data, we identified 14 and 21 genes, respectively that expressed in spike and rachis within the two QTL regions that can be further investigated for candidate genes discovery. Moreover, InDels were found to be associated with awn length on chromosomes 5A, 6B and 4A, which overlapped with previously reported genetic loci B1 (Tipped 1), B2 (Tipped 2) and Hd (Hooded). One of the genes TaAGL6 that was previously shown to affect floral organ development was found at the B2 locus to affect awn length development. Our study shows that trait-associated InDels may contribute to wheat improvement and may be valuable molecular markers for future wheat breeding [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play important roles during anther and pollen development. DNA damage may cause chromosome fragmentation that is considered to underlie chromosome elimination for haploid induction by matrilineal pollen, a key step in MATRILINEAL‐based double haploid breeding technology. But when and how DNA damage occurs is unknown.We performed comparative studies of wheat pollens from the wild‐type and the CRISPR/Cas9 edited matrilineal mutant (mMTL).Chemical assays detected a second wave of ROS in mMTL pollen at the three‐nuclei‐stage and subsequently, along with reduced antioxidant enzyme activities. RNA‐seq analysis revealed disturbed expression of genes for fatty acid biosynthesis and ROS homoeostasis. Gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry measurement identified abnormal fatty acid metabolism that may contribute to defective mMTL pollen walls as observed using electron microscopy, consistent with the function of MTL as a phospholipase. Moreover, DNA damage was identified using TdT‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labelling and quantified using comet assays. Velocity patterns showed that ROS increments preceded that of DNA damage over the course of pollen maturation.Our work hypothesises that mMTL‐triggered later‐stage‐specific ROS causes DNA damage that may contribute to chromosome fragmentation and hence chromosome elimination during haploid induction. These findings may provide more ways to accelerate double haploid‐based plant breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lactobacillus fermentum HY01 is a probiotic strain screened from traditional yak yogurt, which can effectively relieve enteritis and constipation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of HY01 as an adjunct starter on the quality and storage of yak yogurt. A total of 36 main volatile flavor substances were detected in all samples. In particular, more aldehydes, esters, and alcohols were detected in yak yogurt prepared by mixed fermentation of L. fermentum HY01 and starter MY105 (including Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus). The rheological results showed that the yak yogurt prepared by mixed fermentation of L. fermentum HY01 and starter MY105 had higher apparent viscosity and lower tan δ value compared with compared with traditional yak yogurt, yak yogurt with only L. fermentum HY01, and cow yogurt with L. fermentum HY01 and starter MY105. Meanwhile, the conjugated linoleic acid in the yak yogurt prepared by mixed fermentation of L. fermentum HY01 and starter was significantly higher than those in the HY01 group or the yogurt starter group alone. After 28 d of storage at 4°C, the number of HY01 in the yak yogurt prepared by mixed fermentation of L. fermentum HY01 and starter was still higher than 107 cfu/mL, its acidity was lower than 110°T, and its syneresis was the lowest. The results indicated that L. fermentum HY01 could improve the flavor, texture, and storage properties of yak yogurt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of mononuclear/dinuclear copper(II) acylhydrazone complexes were synthesized and characterized. • The anti-lung cancer activity of these complexes were evaluated in vitro. • Complex 3A was evaluated for its anti-lung cancer effects in vivo and in vitro. Non-platinum metal-based complexes have good potential for cancer treatment. Here, we designed and synthesized five hydrazone copper(II) complexes, [Cu 2 (HL) 2 Cl 2 ] 1A, [Cu 2 (HL) 2 (NO 3)H 2 O]·NO 3 2A, [Cu 2 (HL) 2 Br 2 ] 3A, [Cu(L)pyridine] 1B and [Cu(HL)(pyridine)Br] 3B, and evaluated their anti-lung cancer activities. MTT experiments revealed that these copper(II) complexes exhibit higher anticancer activity than cis platin. Mechanism studies revealed that complex 3A induced G1 phase cell cycle arrest, and induced cell apoptosis via reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction. Scratch wound healing assay was also performed, revealing that complex 3A have good anti-cell migration activity. Hemolysis assays showed good blood biocompatibility of complex 3A. Furthermore, complex 3A can significantly inhibit the proliferation of A549 3D tumor spheroid. An in vivo anticancer study showed that complex 3A could delays the growth of A549 tumor xenografts with lower systemic toxicity. These results highlight the great possibility of developing highly active copper complexes as anti-lung cancer agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work presents the first-ever observation of the potential practical application of novel fermented whey protein concentrate (FWPC) as a functional food ingredient for enhanced food products. We aimed to demonstrate the extent of improvement in the comprehensive properties of yogurt fortified with modified-FWPCs compared to standard yogurt and yogurt enriched with different types of commercial whey protein derivatives. Findings showed that yogurts fortified with modified-FWPCs had a significantly higher antioxidant activity than fortified yogurts with commercial whey protein concentrates (WPC) and whey protein isolates (WPI) (P < 0.05). The highest water holding capacities were observed in yogurts fortified with modified-FWPCs. Yogurt with 4.5% WPI had the highest apparent viscosity during each storage period, followed by 4.5% modified-FWPC. The proliferation of Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus was found to be more conducive with the addition of modified-FWPCs than WPC supplementations. The fortification of yogurts with modified-FWPCs led to the formation of larger protein clusters with a more tightly knit network of smaller pores. The descriptive panel results indicated that different types of yogurts fortified with modified-FWPCs exhibited a high-quality product with favorable texture and sensory profiles. Thus, the utilization of modified-FWPCs has resulted in a high-protein yogurts with enhanced functional, physical, microstructural, and sensory properties compared to standard yogurt and yogurts enriched with commercial WPCs and WPIs, making it an attractive option for the creation of innovative and healthier food products. [Display omitted] • Application of novel fermented whey protein concentrates for enhanced food products. • Yogurts fortified with FWPC had significantly higher antioxidant activity. • Fortification led to improvements in WHC, apparent viscosity, and sensory profile. • The use of FWPCs has yielded a high-protein yogurt with enhanced general properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To present the first live birth after uterine transplantation (UTx) in the People's Republic of China.Design: Case study.Setting: University hospital.Patient(s): A 22-year-old woman with Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser syndrome and previous surgery for vaginal reconstruction and UTx.Intervention(s): Endometrial preparation, frozen embryo transfer, pregnancy follow-up, and cesarean section.Main Outcome Measure(s): Results of in vitro fertilization, frozen embryo transfer, ultrasound measurements during pregnancy, rejection diagnosis and treatment, delivery, live birth, and histology of uterus.Results(s): Frozen embryo (cleavage stage) transfer started 1.5 years after UTx. The first embryo transfer (n = 2) resulted in a biochemical pregnancy. The second, third, and fourth embryo transfer (n = 2, 2, 3) did not result in pregnancy. The fifth embryo transfer (n = 3) resulted in pregnancy with two gestational sacs, but with spontaneous disappearance of one in early pregnancy. During early pregnancy three episodes of vaginal bleedings occurred (gestational weeks 6 + 2, 13 + 1, and 16 + 3), with a spontaneously resorbing subchorionic hematoma diagnosed at the last bleeding episode. Bleeding episodes were treated with corticosteroids and tacrolimus. During pregnancy, blood flow velocity waveforms and fetal growth parameters were normal. A subacute cesarean section was performed at gestational week 33 + 6 due to uterine contraction pattern suggesting imminent labor. A healthy boy (2,000 g) with Apgar scores of 10, 10, 10 was delivered. The uterus was kept for a possible second pregnancy.Conclusion(s): The first live birth after UTx in the People's Republic of China is reported and this occurred after a robotic-assisted laparoscopic uterus retrieval from the mother. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Glycated hydrolysate A increased more glutathione than glycated hydrolysate B. • Glycated hydrolysate A enhanced activities of intracellular antioxidant enzymes. • Glycated hydrolysate A reduced cellular lactate dehydrogenase and malondialdehyde. The effects of two glycosylated whey hydrolysates (GWH-Gal A and GWH-Gal B) on glutathione (GSH) and related antioxidant enzymes in SGC-7901 cells were evaluated. Two whey glycosylated hydrolysates promoted an increase in reduced glutathione (GSH) in normal SGC-7901 cells. GSH, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), γ-glutamine cysteine synthetaase (γ-GCS), and catalase (CAT) at 1.0 and 2.0 mg/mL in normal SGC-7901 cells were higher in the GWH-Gal A group than in the GWH-Gal B group (P < 0.05). Compared with GWH-Gal B, GWH-Gal A more strongly inhibited decreases in intracellular GSH, GPx, γ-GCS, CAT, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in H 2 O 2 -induced SGC-7901 cells. Compared with GWH-Gal B, GWH-Gal A at 1.0 and 2.0 mg/mL effectively inhibited increases in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in H 2 O 2 -induced SGC-7901 cells (P < 0.05). Therefore, GSH content and related antioxidant enzyme activity levels (GPx, γ-GCS, CAT, SOD) in both normal and H 2 O 2 -induced SGC-7901 cells were considerably stronger in the GWH-Gal A group than in the GWH-Gal B group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In contrast to most animal species, polyploid plant species are quite tolerant of aneuploidy. Here, the global transcriptome of four aneuploid derivatives of a synthetic hexaploid wheat line was acquired, with the goal of characterizing the relationship between gene copy number and transcript abundance. Results: For most of the genes mapped to the chromosome involved in aneuploidy, the abundance of transcripts reflected the gene copy number. Aneuploidy had a greater effect on the strength of transcription of genes mapped to the chromosome present in a noneuploid dose than on that of genes mapped elsewhere in the genome. Overall, changing the copy number of one member of a homeologous set had little effect on the abundance of transcripts generated from the set of homeologs as a whole, consistent with the tolerance of aneuploidy exhibited by allopolyploids, whether in the form of a chromosomal deficit (monosomy) or chromosomal excess (trisomy). Conclusions: Our findings shed new light on the genetic regulation of homeoallele transcription and contribute to a deeper understanding of allopolyploid genome evolution, with implications for the breeding of polyploid crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: Introgressing one-eighth of synthetic hexaploid wheat genome through a double top-cross plus a two-phase selection is an effective strategy to develop high-yielding wheat varieties. The continued expansion of the world population and the likely onset of climate change combine to form a major crop breeding challenge. Genetic advances in most crop species to date have largely relied on recombination and reassortment within a relatively narrow gene pool. Here, we demonstrate an efficient wheat breeding strategy for improving yield potentials by introgression of multiple genomic regions of de novo synthesized wheat. The method relies on an initial double top-cross (DTC), in which one parent is synthetic hexaploid wheat (SHW), followed by a two-phase selection procedure. A genotypic analysis of three varieties (Shumai 580, Shumai 969 and Shumai 830) released from this program showed that each harbors a unique set of genomic regions inherited from the SHW parent. The first two varieties were generated from very small populations, whereas the third used a more conventional scale of selection since one of bread wheat parents was a pre-breeding material. The three varieties had remarkably enhanced yield potential compared to those developed by conventional breeding. A widely accepted consensus among crop breeders holds that introducing unadapted germplasm, such as landraces, as parents into a breeding program is a risky proposition, since the size of the breeding population required to overcome linkage drag becomes too daunting. However, the success of the proposed DTC strategy has demonstrated that novel variation harbored by SHWs can be accessed in a straightforward, effective manner. The strategy is in principle generalizable to any allopolyploid crop species where the identity of the progenitor species is known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ultrasound-alkaline whey protein isolate (WPI) had better emulsifying properties. • Random coils in WPI had been changed due to pH treatment and ultrasound. • SEM showed that ultrasound-treated WPI showed more sheet structures. This study examined the effects of ultrasonic power (0, 120, 360, and 600 W) for 30 min on the structural, physicochemical and emulsifying properties of whey protein isolate (WPI) under different pH values (3, 5, 7, 9 and 11). The particle size distributions of WPI narrowed as the ultrasonic power increased from 0 to 600 W. WPI showed the maximum surface hydrophobicity and fluorescence intensity at 600 W and pH 11. Ultrasound significantly reduced the WPI turbidity at pH 3, 7, 9 and 11 and improved the WPI emulsion activity and stability at pH 3, 5, 7 and 9. Moreover, the number of β-sheets and random coils dramatically increased in WPI at 600 W of ultrasonic power and pH 3, 7, 9 and 11. Overall, the combination of ultrasound and alkaline conditions could potentially alter the secondary structure of WPI and enhance its emulsifying properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Two types of nanoemulsions were prepared using ultrasound (US) treatment and high pressure homogenization (HPH) with optimized conditions. The effect of US and HPH on the structure and the interaction between soybean protein isolate (SPI) and phosphatidylcholine (PC) were studied using fluorescence spectrum. Results showed that these two preparation methods were capable of producing stable nanoemulsions. The nanoemulsions prepared using HPH had smaller average particle size, higher surface charge, lower turbidity and greater emulsifying yield than US, but the specific energy required for the HPH (4.0 kJ/g) was nearly 1.5 times higher than that of US (2.7 kJ/g). Fluorescence data showed that the fluorescence quenching of SPI with PC was the result of the formation of SPI-PC complex. According to the Stern–Volmer equation, the association constant (K A) of the SPI-PC interaction using HPH was higher than US at three different temperatures. The positive enthalpy and entropy changes suggested that hydrophobic interactions were the dominant binding force in stabilizing the complex. The distance r for binding between HPH treated PC and SPI was lower suggesting that the binding was stronger. These comparative results showed that the HPH-nanoemulsions were more stable than US-nanoemulsions, which was proposed to be due to HPH promoting the exposure of more hydrophobic residues on the surface of SPI, which would permit more PC to interact with SPI. But US is a relatively more energy-efficient method as compared to HPH and may better meet industrial needs. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • The stability mechanism of two types of nanoemulsions was elucidated by fluorescence spectrum. • Explaining why the HPH-nanoemulsions were more stable than US-nanoemulsions from the structural aspects. • The interactions between SPI and PC was promoted by HPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: DNA methylation is dynamically involved in plant immunity, but little information is known about its roles in plant interactions with biotrophic fungi, especially in temperate grasses such as wheat (Triticum aestivum).Using wheat diploid progenitor Aegilops tauschii accession AL8/78, the genome of which has been sequenced, we assessed the extent of DNA methylation in response to infection with Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt), which causes powdery mildew.Upon Bgt infection, ARGONAUTE4a (AGO4a) was significantly downregulated in A. tauschii, which was accompanied by a substantial reduction in AGO4a‐sorted 24‐nt siRNA levels, especially for genes near transposable elements (TAGs). Bisulfite sequencing revealed abundant differentially methylated regions (DMRs) with CHH hypomethylation. TAGs bearing CHH‐hypomethylated DMRs were enriched for 'response to stress' functions, including receptor kinase, peroxidase, and pathogenesis‐related genes. Virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) of a DOMAINS REARRANGED METHYLASE 2 (DRM2) homolog enhanced plant resistance to Bgt. The effect of CHH hypomethylation was exemplified by the upregulation of a pathogenesis‐related β‐1,3‐glucanse gene implicated in Bgt defense.These findings support the idea that dynamic DNA methylation represents a regulatory layer in the complex mechanism of plant immunity, which could be exploited to improve disease resistance in common wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the simple wave structure and low-attenuation and non-dispersive properties, the lowest-order shear horizontal mode SH 0 can realize the efficient large-scale damage detection in plate structures and shows a great application potential in non-destructive testing and structural health monitoring. In order to excite SH 0 mode in aluminum plates, a direction-tunable shear-horizontal mode array magnetostrictive patch transducer (DT-SHMA-MPT) is developed based on the magnetostrictive effect. The proposed DT-SHMA-MPT consists of a transducer sleeve, four identical planar fan-shaped meander coils, four identical fan-shaped NdFeB permanent magnets, and a circular nickel patch. Four identical planar fan-shaped meander coils are connected in parallel to form a meander coil array. These planar fan-shaped meander coils are double-layer structures and made of flexible printed circuit (FPC). The experimental results show that the developed DT-SHMA-MPT can effectively excite and receive a single SH 0 mode in aluminum plates. For the DT-SHMA-MPT with n planar fan-shaped meander coils and n fan-shaped permanent magnets ( n  = 4, 3, 2), its frequency response characteristics are tested at the center frequencies of 775 kHz, 780 kHz, and 783 kHz, which are close to the predicted value. Furthermore, the effects of the number of fan-shaped meander coils and corresponding permanent magnets on the directivity of the transducer are also investigated. The acoustic field distribution or the directivity of the transducer directly depends on the number of fan-shaped meander coils and permanent magnets. Finally, the direction tuning of proposed transducer is investigated. The ability of excitation and reception of this transducer can be controlled by tuning the directional arrangement of fan-shaped meander coils and permanent magnets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of Potentilla anserine polysaccharide (PAP) on microbial viability, physicochemical properties, sensory characteristics and antioxidant activities in probiotic yak yoghurts during 21 days of storage were evaluated. PAP significantly increased the number of Lactobacillus plantarum DNZ-4, Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus , which were higher than 7 log cfu mL−1 during storage. Addition of PAP delayed the post acidification process in probiotic yak yoghurt during storage, and improved water-holding capacity and rheological properties. Especially, gel structure of 0.1% PAP probiotic yak yoghurt was more fine and smooth, and sensory acceptability was the best. Furthermore, compared with the control, antioxidant activities in PAP probiotic yak yoghurts were significantly improved (p <0.05) and hydroxyl radical scavenging rates of 0.1% PAP probiotic yak yoghurt still reached 57 ± 1.35% on day 21 of storage. Therefore, PAP could improve probiotic yak yoghurt storage properties and enhance functional added value of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Casein formed conjugates with pectin or arabinogalactan through Maillard reaction. • Conjugates had lower α-helix level and higher random coil level of casein. • Conjugates had lower surface hydrophobicity and higher absolute ζ-potential values. • Glycosylation treatment significantly improved the functional properties of casein. The aim of this study was to prepare conjugates of casein (CA) with pectin (CP) or arabinogalactan (AG) by the Maillard reaction (wet-heating) and to investigate the effects of CP or AG on the structural and functional properties of casein. The results indicated that the highest grafting degree of CA with CP or AG was observed at 90 °C for 1.5 h or 1 h, respectively. Secondary structure showed that grafting with CP or AG reduced the α-helix level and increased the random coil level of CA. Glycosylation treatment of CA-CP and CA-AG exhibited lower surface hydrophobicity and higher absolute ζ-potential values, further significantly improving the functional properties of CA (e.g., solubility, foaming property, emulsifying property, thermal stability, and antioxidant activity). Accordingly, our results indicated that it is feasible for CP or AG to improve the functional properties of CA by the Maillard reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthopanax senticosus has been widely studied for its various active ingredients such as flavonoids, polysaccharides, and glycosides, while its application in the field of health food has not been reported. This study was conducted to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction method of functional components in Acanthopanax senticosus based on single-factor experiments and Box-Behnken's response surface methodology. The optimal extraction conditions were determined as a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:10 g/mL, extraction time of 35 min, and power of 200 W, and the actual yields of polysaccharides, flavonoids, and glycosides obtained were 37.27 ± 0.17, 14.83 ± 0.11, and 1.57 ± 0.03 mg/g, respectively. Then, the extract was added to rice wine to formulate Acanthopanax senticosus health wine and analyzed for its antioxidant activity, sensory characteristics, and flavor components. The results showed that ultrasonic-assisted extraction significantly improved the antioxidant activity and imparted good sensory characteristics to Acanthopanax senticosus health wine. HS-SPME-GC-MS analysis further demonstrated that the health wine has a unique flavor profile and can be further produced for application in functional foods and pharmaceuticals. • Ultrasonic-assisted can improve the extraction yields of flavonoids, polysaccharides, and glycosides of A. senticosus. • The extraction conditions of the active ingredients in A. senticosus were optimized by response surface tests. • The extracts of A. senticosus exhibited high antioxidant activity. • The volatile compounds of A. senticosus health wine included esters, alcohols, acids, and aldehydes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

GASR7 is a member of Snakin/GASA gene family in higher plants and has been found associated with grain length (GL) in rice and wheat under normal growth conditions. Here, we report the characterization of three distinct TaGASR7 homoeologs ( TaGASR7- A1, TaGASR7- B1 and TaGASR7- D1) in common wheat and their deduced proteins and haplotype variation. TaGASR7 homoeologs were located on wheat group 7 chromosomes. Compared with previously characterized Snakin/GASA members, the central region in deduced TaGASR7 proteins and their orthologs was unique in containing a polyglycine tract. Through analyzing longer genomic sequence, more nucleotide differences were found for the two previously reported major haplotypes (H1c and H1g) of TaGASR7- A1. In contrast, no haplotype variation was detected for TaGASR7- B1 and TaGASR7- D1 in the 94 elite common wheat varieties examined. H1c, but not H1g, tended to associate with larger GL values in nine cultivation environments differing in water and nutrient application. However, the positive association between H1c and other grain traits (grain weight and yield) was affected by cultivation environment. Both H1c- and H1g-type alleles were more highly expressed in the unfertilized caryopses and those collected at 5 days after flowering (DAF). Interestingly, at 5 DAF, the expression level of H1c-type alleles was significantly lower than that of H1g-type alleles. By combining our data with those published previously, we suggest that TaGASR7- A1 is mainly a genetic determinant of GL in wheat with pleiotropic effects on grain weight and yield. Potential mechanism underlying TaGASR7- A1 function and its utility in enhancing genetic and breeding studies of wheat grain morphometric and yield traits are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The highly conserved florigen gene FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) functions at the core of the flowering pathways. Extensive studies have examined the transcriptional regulation of FT ; however, other layers of FT regulation remain unclear. Here, we identified miR5200 a Pooideae -specific microRNA that is expressed in leaves and targets Brachypodium distachyon FT orthologs for mRNA cleavage. miR5200 was abundantly expressed in plants grown under short-day (SD) conditions but was dramatically repressed in plants transferred to long-day (LD) conditions. We also found that the epigenetic chromatin status, specifically the levels of histone methylation marks, at miR5200 precursor loci changed in response to daylength. Moreover, artificial interruption of miR5200 activity by target mimicry in B. distachyon altered flowering time in SD but not in LD conditions, suggesting that miR5200 functions in photoperiod-mediated flowering time regulation. Together, these findings illustrate a posttranscriptional regulation mechanism of FT and provide insights into understanding of the multiple concerted pathways for flowering time control in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Understanding the regulatory mechanism underlying grain development is essential for wheat improvement. The early grain expanding phase boasts critical biological events like embryogenesis and initiation of grain filling. RNA sequencing analysis of this developmental stage revealed dynamic expressions of genes related to cell division, starch biosynthesis, and hormone biosynthesis. An unbalanced expression among triads may play critical roles as shown by multiple enriched metabolic pathways. Our work demonstrated complex regulation mechanisms in early grain development and provided useful information for future wheat improvement. Grain development, as a vital process in the crop's life cycle, is crucial for determining crop quality and yield. The wheat grain expanding phase is the early process involving the rapid morphological changes and initiation of grain filling. However, little is known about the molecular basis of grain development at this stage. Here, we provide a time-series transcriptome profile of developing wheat grain at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days after pollination of the wheat landrace Chinese Spring. A total of 26,892 differentially expressed genes, including 1468 transcription factors, were found between adjacent time points. Co-expression cluster analysis and Gene Ontology enrichment revealed dynamic expressions of cell division and starch biosynthesis related structural genes and transcription factors. Moreover, diverse, differential and drastically varied expression trends of the key genes related to hormone metabolism were identified. Furthermore, ~30% of triads showed unbalanced expression patterns enriching for genes in multiple pivotal metabolic pathways. Hormone metabolism related genes, such as YUC10 (YUCCA flavin-containing monooxygenase 10), AOS2 (allene oxide synthase 2), CYP90D2 (cytochrome P450 90D2), and CKX1 (cytokinin dehydrogenase 1), were dominantly contributed by A or D homoeologs of the triads. Our study provided a systematic picture of transcriptional regulation of wheat grains at the early grain expanding phase which should deepen our understanding of wheat grain development and help in wheat yield improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Soy isoflavones could be broken down and utilized by gut microbiota. • Soy isoflavones could regulate the gut microbiota profile. • Soy isoflavones can promote the growth of four probiotics. • Soy isoflavone significantly affected the antibacterial ability of probiotics. Since soy isoflavones have many potentially beneficial properties, they have received increasing attention. However, there are few studies on their bioavailability and effects on gut microbiota. In this experiment, the simulator of the human intestinal microbial ecosystem (SHIME) was used to study the bioavailability of soy isoflavones and their effects on gut microbiota. The effects of soy isoflavones on the growth and antibacterial properties of probiotics were also studied in vitro. The results shows that the digestion of soy isoflavones mainly occurs in the colon, and the antioxidant capacity changes with the progress of digestion. Soy isoflavone can regulate gut microbiota, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, and affect the growth of obesity-related bacteria. Moreover, soy isoflavones can promote the growth of probiotics and significantly improve their antibacterial ability in vitro. Overall, soy isoflavones have the potential to be a functional food by improving gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study was conducted to investigate the effects of zinc enrichment on the characteristics, metabolites and antioxidant activity of L. plantarum DNZ-4. Electron microscopy analysis showed that the ultrastructure of the zinc-enriched strain changed greatly both for surface and inside as compared to the control strain. The zinc-enriched strain showed higher acid production ability resulting in lower pH value. Resistance assays demonstrated that the zinc-enriched strain has stronger tolerance ability to acid, bile salt and H 2 O 2 than that of the control strain. Metabolites analysis indicated that the various metabolites in the zinc-enriched strain were altered significantly as a result of amino acids, energy and fatty acid metabolism affected by zinc enrichment. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of the zinc-enriched strain, including radical scavenging capacity and the antioxidative enzyme activity increased significantly. These results suggest that zinc addition had a positive effect on the physiologic function of L. plantarum DNZ-4. • L. plantarum DNZ-4 was used to enrich zinc to prepare the zinc-enriched strain. • The ultrastructure of the zinc-enriched strain changed greatly. • The zinc-enriched strain showed better fermentation resistance properties. • The metabolite profile of the strain changed significantly after zinc enrichment. • The antioxidant properties of the zinc-enriched strain increased significantly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent availability of plant genome sequences, combined with a robust evolutionary scenario of the modern monocot and eudicot karyotypes from their diploid ancestors, offers an opportunity to gain insights into microRNA (miRNA) gene paleohistory in plants. Characterization and comparison of miRNAs and associated protein-coding targets in plants allowed us to unravel (1) contrasted genome conservation patterns of miRNAs in monocots and eudicots after whole-genome duplication (WGD), (2) an ancestral miRNA founder pool in the monocot genomes dating back to 100 million years ago, (3) miRNA subgenome dominance during the post- WGD diploidization process with selective miRNA deletion complemented with possible transposable element–mediated return flows, and (4) the miRNA /target interaction-directed differential loss/retention of miRNAs following the gene dosage balance rule. Together, our data suggest that overretained miRNAs in grass genomes may be implicated in connected gene regulations for stress responses, which is essential for plant adaptation and useful for crop variety innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this work was to investigate the impact of high-pressure homogenization pressure (HPHP, 0–120 MPa for 5 cycles) on physicochemical, emulsifying and foaming properties of TGase-induced whey protein isolate (WPI). Initially, the results of SDS-PAGE and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) showed that the molecular polymers of TGase-induced WPI could be formed with HPHP ranging from 0 to 120 MPa, compared with WPI. Furthermore, particle size and free amino groups of TGase-induced WPI reduced after HPHP pretreatment, whereas its surface hydrophobicity and solubility remarkably increased (P < 0.05). More importantly, HPHP pretreatment could strikingly ameliorate emulsifying and foaming properties of TGase-induced WPI. After HPHP pretreatment of 120 MPa, emulsifying ability index and stability index of TGase-induced WPI ranged from 93.84 to 114.15 m2/g and from 44.62 to 50.98%, respectively. Correspondingly, its foaming ability and stability were increased by 81.06% and 41.86%. Thus, HPHP pretreatment could enhance the crosslinking degree of TGase-induced WPI and improve its emulsifying and foaming properties. Image 1 • HPHP pretreatment effectively enhanced functional properties of TGase-induced WPI. • The crosslinking degree of TGase-induced WPI was enhanced by HPHP pretreatment. • Free amino group of TGase-induced WPI decreased by 3.60% after 120 Mpa pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proposed MT-MC-EMAT added to the magnetic concentrator on the traditional EMAT, to guide and concentrate the magnetic field of permanent magnet. • Guided waves modes were tunable by using different types of magnetic concentrator. • MT-MC-EMAT has better frequency-response characteristics and good directional characteristics, can generate pure S 0 and A 0 modes. • Proposed MT-MC-EMAT has better mode selectivity than traditional EMAT. • The influence of each parameter on the transduction efficiency of proposed MT-MC-EMAT was studied and optimal parameter combination was selected. In the traditional electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) based on Lorentz force mechanism, to meet the principle of constructive interference, the coil center distance is generally set to be half of the wavelength of the specified mode. The fixed center-to-center coil produces a Lorentz force under the action of a uniform static magnetic field provided by the magnet, thereby producing a specified mode signal that satisfies the constructive interference. In the above principle, the center distance of the coil is fixed, and applied with a uniform static magnetic field, which the coils with different center distances are combined with the dispersion curve to control the mode of the generated signal; that is, tuning the signal mode by changing the center distance of the coil. Another way to tune the signal mode is by changing the configuration of the magnet. Adopting appropriate waves for the identification of individual types of defects facilitates faster and more accurate detection. When using EMAT, some specifications of EMAT need to be changed, which can be inefficient and costly. To solve the problem, a mode-tuning magnetic-concentrator-type electromagnetic acoustic transducer (MT-MC-EMAT) is proposed in this study. This type of EMAT controls the mode of the generated signal by controlling the center distance of the static magnetic field provided by the magnet; that is, designing a new type of double-layer variable-pitch meander coil and different magnetic concentrators to select each coil. This method can tune the mode of the excitation signal by replacing the magnetic concentrator without changing a series of parameters, such as the coil, magnet, and excitation frequency. Different types of magnetic concentrators were added to a traditional EMAT to guide and concentrate the magnetic field of the permanent magnet, thereby changing the distribution of the magnetic flux density. These magnetic concentrators corresponded to meander coils with different pitches to satisfy constructive interference and achieve signal mode tuning. Both finite element simulation and experiment proved that the mode generated by this transducer was tunable after adding the different types of magnetic concentrators. Furthermore, experiments were conducted to examine the transducer characteristics. Finally, the configuration of the MT-MC-EMAT was optimized through orthogonal experiments. The influence of each parameter on the transducer efficiency of the proposed MT-MC-EMAT was studied, and the optimal parameter combination was confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an important branch of non-destructive testing, electromagnetic ultrasonic testing is widely used in various industries because of its high detection efficiency and the lack of a need for the test sample to have a coupling agent or a surface pretreatment. As a core component of electromagnetic ultrasonic testing, electromagnetic acoustic transducers (EMATs) have received extensive attention in recent years. However, the mode selectivity of EMATs is reduced because of the non-uniformity of the magnetic field of traditional permanent magnets and the multimode phenomenon of guided waves. To solve this problem, an omni-directional magnetic-concentrator-type electromagnetic acoustic transducer (OD-MC-EMAT) is proposed herein. Which was added to the magnetic concentrator on a traditional EMAT to guide and concentrate the magnetic field of traditional permanent magnets, thereby improving the defect inspection ability of the EMAT. The proposed OD-MC-EMAT consisted of a cylindrical permanent magnet, an omni-directional magnetic concentrator, and a multi-cluster of circular meander coils, and it exhibited better mode selectivity than a traditional EMAT. A finite element simulation and an experiment proved that the mode selectivity of the transducer improved after adding the magnetic concentrator, and experiments to study the transducer characteristics and defect detection were also carried out. Finally, the configuration of the OD-MC-EMAT was optimized through an orthogonal experiment. The influence of each parameter on the transducing efficiency of the proposed OD-MC-EMAT was studied, and the optimal parameter combination was confirmed. • The proposed OD-MC-EMAT consisted of magnetic concentrator and traditional EMAT. • The amplitude of unwanted modes was reduced and mode selectivity was enhanced by OD-MC-EMAT. • OD-MC-EMAT has better frequency-response characteristics and sound-field is omni-direction. • The proposed OD-MC-EMAT is more suitable for defect inspection than traditional EMAT. • The effect of each parameter on transducing efficiency of proposed EMAT was studied and parameter combination was optimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of different NaCl (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mmol/L) on oxidative stability and protein properties of soybean oil bodies (SBOBs), peanut oil bodies (PNOBs) and sunflower oil bodies (SFOBs) at 25 °C. Results showed that, with the increase of NaCl concentration, ζ-potential values of these three oil bodies (OBs) were decreased significantly and then remained stable, and their particle sizes were slightly increased. NaCl did not significantly influence protein composition and thermal properties of these three OBs, but increased their total ΔH of proteins. With 50 mmol/L of NaCl, hydrophobicity and emulsifying activity (EAI) of SBOBs, PNOBs and SFOBs, and emulsifying stability (ESI) of SBOBs were significantly reduced. When NaCl concentration was more 50 mmol/L, the surface hydrophobicity, emulsifying activity of SBOBs, PNOBs and SFOBs, and emulsifying stability of PNOBs and SFOBs were then gradually increased. Under the accelerated oxidation conditions at 60 °C and when NaCl concentrations was 150 mmol/L, peroxide values of these three OBs were lower than that when NaCl concentration was 50 mmol/L or 100 mmol/L. And thiobarbituric acid values (TBARS) of these three OBs with different NaCl concentrations were all relatively low. • NaCl significantly reduced ζ-potential, emulsifying properties of oil bodies. • NaCl significantly increased the average particle size of oil bodies. • All of these three oil bodies showed excellent oxidation stability. • NaCl can significantly increase total ΔH of oil body protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The risk stratification of pulmonary arterial hypertension proposed by the European Society of Cardiology /European Respiratory Society guidelines in 2015 and 2022 included two to three echocardiographic indicators. However, the specific value of echocardiography in risk stratification of pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension (pcPH) has not been efficiently demonstrated. Given the complex geometry of the right ventricular (RV) and influencing factors of echocardiographic parameter, there is no single echocardiographic parameter that reliably informs about PH status. We hypothesize that a multi-parameter comprehensive index can more accurately evaluate the severity of the pcPH. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an echocardiographic risk score model to better assist clinical identifying high risk of pcPH during initial diagnosis and follow-up., Methods: We studied 197 consecutive patients with pcPH. A multivariable echocardiographic model was constructed to predict the high risk of pcPH in the training set. Points were assigned to significant risk factors in the final model based on β-coefficients. We validated the model internally and externally., Results: The echocardiographic score was constructed by multivariable logistic regression, which showed that pericardial effusion, right atrial (RA) area, RV outflow tract proximal diameter (RVOT-Prox), the velocity time integral of the right ventricular outflow tract (TVI RVOT ) and S' were predictors of high risk of pcPH. The area under curve (AUC) of the training set of the scoring model was 0.882 (95%CI: 0.809-0.956, p < 0.0001). External validation was tested in a test dataset of 77 patients. The AUC of the external validation set was 0.852. A 10-point score risk score was generated, with scores ranging from 0 to 10 in the training cohort. The estimate risk of high risk of pcPH ranged from 25.1 to 94.6%., Conclusions: The echocardiographic risk score using five echocardiographic parameters could be comprehensive and useful to predict the high risk of pcPH for initial assessment and follow-up., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Dairy is recognized as a good source of calcium, which is important for preventing osteoporosis. However, the relationship between milk and bone health is more complex than just calcium supplementation. It is unwise to focus solely on observing the effects of a single nutrient. Lactose, proteins, and vitamins in milk, as well as fatty acids, oligosaccharides, and exosomes, all work together with calcium to enhance its bioavailability and utilization efficiency through various mechanisms. We evaluate the roles of dairy nutrients and active ingredients in maintaining bone homeostasis from the perspective of the dairy matrix effects. Special attention is given to threshold effects, synergistic effects, and associations with the gut-bone axis. We also summarize the associations between probiotic/prebiotic milk, low-fat/high-fat milk, lactose-free milk, and fortified milk with a reduced risk of osteoporosis and discuss the potential benefits and controversies of these dairy products. Moreover, we examine the role of dairy products in increasing peak bone mass during adolescence and reducing bone loss in old age. It provides a theoretical reference for the use of dairy products in the accurate prevention and management of osteoporosis and related chronic diseases and offers personalized dietary recommendations for bone health in different populations., (© 2024 Institute of Food Technologists®.)

Induction of cuproptosis and targeting of multiple signaling pathways show promising applications in tumor therapy. In this study, we synthesized two thiosemicarbazone-copper complexes ([Cu II (L)Cl] 1 and [Cu II 2 Cu I (L) 2 Cl 3 ] 2, where HL is the ( E )- N -methyl-2-(phenyl(pyridin-2-yl)methylene ligand), to assess their antilung cancer activities. Both copper complexes showed better anticancer activity than cisplatin and exhibited hemolysis comparable to that of cisplatin. In vivo experiments showed that complex 2 retarded the A549 cell growth in a mouse xenograft model with low systemic toxicity. Primarily, complex 2 kills lung cancer cells in vitro and in vivo by triggering multiple pathways, including cuproptosis. Complex 2 is the first mixed-valent Cu(I/II) complex to induce cellular events consistent with cuproptosis in cancer cells, which may stimulate the development of mixed-valent copper complexes and provide effective cancer therapy.

Plant height and heading date are important agronomic traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) that affect final grain yield. In wheat, knowledge of pseudo-response regulator (PRR) genes on agronomic traits is limited. Here, we identify a wheat TaPRR95 gene by genome-wide association study to be associated with plant height. Triple allele mutant plants produced by CRISPR/Cas9 show increased plant height, particularly the peduncle, with an earlier heading date. The longer peduncle is mainly caused by the increased cell elongation at its upper section, whilst the early heading date is accompanied by elevated expression of flowering genes, such as TaFT and TaCO1. A peduncle-specific transcriptome analysis reveals up-regulated photosynthesis genes and down-regulated IAA/Aux genes for auxin signaling in prr95 aabbdd plants that may act as a regulatory mechanism to promote robust plant growth. A haplotype analysis identifies a TaPRR95-B haplotype (Hap2) to be closely associated with reduced plant height and increased thousand-grain weight. Moreover, the Hap2 frequency is higher in cultivars than that in landraces, suggesting the artificial selection on the allele during wheat breeding. These findings suggest that TaPRR95 is a regulator for plant height and heading date, thereby providing an important target for wheat yield improvement., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors declare no conflict of interest related to this manuscript., (Copyright © 2024 Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and Genetics Society of China. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

JASMONATE-ZIM DOMAIN (JAZ) repressor proteins work as co-receptors in the jasmonic acid (JA) signalling pathway and are essential for plant development and environmental adaptation. Despite wheat being one of the main staple food crops, until recently, comprehensive analysis of its JAZ gene family has been limited due to the lack of complete and high-quality reference genomes. Here, using the latest reference genome, we identified 17 JAZ genes in the wheat D-genome donor Aegilops tauschii . Then, 54 TaJAZs were identified in common wheat. A systematic examination of the gene structures, conserved protein domains, and phylogenetic relationships of this gene family was performed. Five new JAZ genes were identified as being derived from tandem duplication after wheat divergence from other species. We integrated RNA-seq data and yield QTL information and found that tandemly duplicated TaJAZ genes were prone to association with spike-related traits. Moreover, 12 TaJAZ genes were located within breeding selection sweeps, including 9 tandemly duplicated ones. Haplotype variation analysis of selected JAZ genes showed significant association of TaJAZ7A and TaJAZ13A with thousand-grain weight. Our work provides a clearer picture of wheat JAZ gene evolution and puts forward the possibility of using these genes for wheat yield improvement.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common disease of the digestive system, and an excessive immune response mediated by the nuclear factor κ-B (NF-κB) signaling pathway is an essential etiology. Recent studies have found that bovine milk exosomes can improve intestinal mucosal health by delivering microRNA (miRNA), but the mechanism of action is so far unknown. In the present study, we analyzed the differential expression profiles of miRNA in colostrum and mature milk exosomes using high-throughput sequencing, based on the demonstration that colostrum exosomes inhibit the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal epithelial NF-κB inflammatory pathway better than mature milk exosomes. The bta-miR-30a-5p, which is specifically highly expressed in colostrum, was screened, and its predicted target gene TRAM was found to be closely related to the NF-κB signaling pathway by functional enrichment analysis. Further, we used gene overexpression and silencing techniques and found that the bta-miR-30a-5p transfection treatment was confirmed to inhibit LPS-induced NF-κB signaling pathway activation and downstream pro-inflammatory factor expression, while the expression of its potential target gene, TRAM, was also suppressed. It is hypothesized that the high expression of bta-miR-30a-5p in colostrum, which targets TRAM to inhibit the downstream NF-κB inflammatory pathway, may be one of the molecular mechanisms responsible for its superior effect on resisting inflammatory attack compared to mature milk.

Yak milk is a characteristic animal product of yaks in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Although yak milk production is low, it is richer in nutrients such as protein, fat, and lactose, a more comprehensive range of bioactive components, and unique microbial resources than Holstein cow milk. The plateau environment makes yak milk resistant to hypoxia, anti-fatigue, antioxidant, antibacterial, and relieves chronic diseases. In this paper, based on the systematic analysis of yak milk research results in the past 20 years using CiteSpace 6.1.R2, we reviewed yak lactation performance and nutritional efficacy of yak milk. This paper summarizes the improvement of traditional yak dairy processing technology, and also focuses on the microbial diversity of yak milk sources and their beneficial effects. The purpose of this review is to provide scientific support for the development of a quality yak milk industry on the Tibetan plateau., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Authors.)

Obesity has become a global public health problem that seriously affects the quality of life. As an important part of human diet, dairy products contain a large number of nutrients that are essential for maintaining human health, such as proteins, peptides, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. A growing number of epidemiological investigations provide strong evidence on dairy interventions for weight loss in overweight/obese populations. Therefore, this paper outlines the relationship between the consumption of different dairy products and obesity and related metabolic diseases. In addition, we dive into the mechanisms related to the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism by functional components in dairy products and the interaction with gut microbes. Lastly, the role of dairy products on obesity of children and adolescents is revisited. We conclude that whole dairy products exert more beneficial effect than single milk constituent on alleviating obesity and that dairy matrix has important implications for metabolic health.

In this study, the effects of freezing yak milk at -20 °C and -40 °C for 30, 90 and 180 days on the fermentation characteristics and storage quality of the corresponding yogurt were discussed. The results showed that, compared with that of yogurt made from fresh yak milk, the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) growth and acid production rate of the yogurt in the -20 °C group decreased at 90 d. The water-holding capacity, viscosity and hardness decreased during storage, and a sour taste was prominent, while no significant changes were observed in the -40 °C group. At 180 d of freezing, the post-acidification of the yogurt in the -20 °C and -40 °C groups increased after 21 d of storage. Compared with the -40 °C group, the -20 °C group showed a significant decrease in LAB counts, a decrease in pH value to 3.63-3.80 and poor texture and sensory quality.

Background: Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) is associated with adverse outcomes of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). However, there are no studies describing the long-term, full-spectrum right ventricular parameters on morphology, pressure and function at certain follow-up time points after PE onset. More exploration of right ventricular function would provide useful clues for long-term management of patients with PE., Methods: For this systematic review and meta-analysis, we completed a literature search in Pubmed, EMBASE and WebofScience (from Jan 1st, 1998 to April 20th, 2023). Studies of patients with acute PE followed-up longer than 3 months with right ventricle assessment and written in English-language were included. Right ventricular function was assessed by either echocardiography or computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA). The primary outcome was structural and functional parameters of the right ventricle, and the secondary outcomes were functional assessments [New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional classification and 6-min walk test distance (6 MWD)], at each follow-up time points. Random effect meta-analyses were performed using R software (PROSPERO: CRD42023433332)., Findings: A total of 33 studies (3920 patients) were included in the final analysis. The 3-month, 6-month and 1-year prevalence of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) was 0.34 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21-0.48, I 2  = 96%], 0.26 (95% CI 0.17-0.36, I 2  = 93%) and 0.34 (95% CI 0.19-0.48, I 2  = 94%), respectively. Pooled tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), right ventricular to left ventricular diameter (RV/LV) ratio and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) at 1-year was 21.80 mm (95% CI 20.08-23.52, I 2  = 93%), 0.64 (95% CI 0.48-0.81, I 2  = 92%) and 27.33 mmHg (95% CI 18.88-35.78) (I 2  = 96%), respectively. The proportion of NYHA III-IV was 0.06 (95% CI 0.0-0.12) and the pooled 6 MWD was 462.98 m (95% CI 447.55-478.41) over 1 year. Patients treated with thrombolysis had lower prevalence of RVD (1-year 0.17 and 0.07 in systemic thrombolysis and catheter-directed thrombolysis, respectively) than those treated with anticoagulation therapy alone (1-year 0.24) but the pooled risk ratio (RR) was not statistically significant., Interpretation: Although the conclusion of this study may be limited by its high heterogeneity from varied study designs, inclusion criteria and definition of RVD of each study, our findings suggested that persistent RVD and functional impairment were of considerable high prevalence during long-term follow-up after acute PE. Treatment strategy may influence the prevalence of long-term RVD., Funding: This study is supported by CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (CIFMS) (2021-I2M-1-061). The National Key Research and Development Program of China (2016YFC0905600). National High Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding (2022-NHLHCRF-LX-01-02-03). CAMS Institute of Respiratory Medicine Grant for Young Scholars (2023-ZF-8)., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflict of interest or financial relationships to disclose. No form of payment was given to anyone to produce the manuscript., (© 2023 The Author(s).)

With increasing health awareness worldwide, lactose intolerance has become a major concern of consumers, creating new market opportunities for low-lactose/lactose-free dairy foods. In recent years, through innovating processes and technologies, dairy manufacturers have significantly improved the variety, and functional and sensory qualities of low-lactose and lactose-free dairy products. Based on this, this paper first covers the pathology and epidemiology of lactose intolerance and market trends. Then, we focus on current advantages and disadvantages of different lactose hydrolysis technologies and improvements in these technologies to enhance nutritional value, and functional, sensory, and quality properties of lactose-free dairy products. We found that more and more cutting-edge technologies are being applied to the production of lactose-free dairy products, and that these technologies greatly improve the quality and production efficiency of lactose-free dairy products. Hopefully, our review can provide a theoretical basis for the marketing expansion and consumption guidance for low-lactose/lactose-free dairy products.

Environmental acidification impairs microorganism diversity and their functions on substance transformation. Rhodococcus is a ubiquitously distributed genus for contaminant detoxification in the environment, and it can also adapt a certain range of pH. This work interpreted the acid responses from both phenotype and metabolism in strain Rhodococcus biphenylivorans TG9 T (TG9) induced at pH 3. The phenotype alterations were described with the number of culturable and viable cells, intracellular ATP concentrations, cell shape and entocyte, degradation efficiency of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) 31 and biphenyl. The number of culturable cells maintained rather stable within the first 10 days, even though the other phenotypes had noticeable alterations, indicating that TG9 possesses certain capacities to survive under acid stress. The metabolism responses were interpreted based on transcription analyses with four treatments including log phase (LP), acid-induced (PER), early recovery after removing acid (RE) and later recovery (REL). With the overview on the expression regulations among the 4 treatments, the RE sample presented more upregulated and less downregulated genes, suggesting that its metabolism was somehow more active after recovering from acid stress. In addition, the response mechanism was interpreted on 10 individual metabolism pathways mainly covering protein modification, antioxidation, antipermeability, H + consumption, neutralization and extrusion. Furthermore, the transcription variations were verified with RT-qPCR on 8 genes with 24-hr, 48-hr and 72-hr acid treatment. Taken together, TG9 possesses comprehensive metabolism strategies defending against acid stress. Consequently, a model was built to provide an integrate insight to understand the acid resistance/tolerance metabolisms in microorganisms., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2022. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

( E )-β-ocimene, a ubiquitous monoterpene volatile in plants, is emitted from flowers to attract pollinators and/or from vegetative tissues as part of inducible defenses mediated by complex signaling networks when plants are attacked by insect herbivores. Wild pear species Pyrus betuleafolia used worldwide as rootstock generally displays valuable pest-resistant traits and is a promising genetic resource for pear breeding. In the current study, transcriptional changes in this wild pear species infested with a polyphagous herbivore Spodoptera litura and the underlying molecular mechanisms were fully investigated. A total of 3,118 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in damaged pear leaf samples. Spodoptera litura larvae infestation activated complex phytohormonal signaling networks in which jasmonic acid, ethylene, brassinosteroids, cytokinin, gibberellic acid and auxin pathways were induced, whereas salicylic acid and abscisic acid pathways were suppressed. All DEGs associated with growth-related photosynthesis were significantly downregulated, whereas most DEGs involved in defense-related early signaling events, transcription factors, green leaf volatiles and volatile terpenes were significantly upregulated. The PbeOCS (GWHGAAYT028729), a putative ( E )-β-ocimene synthase gene, was newly identified in P. betuleafolia transcriptome. The upregulation of PbeOCS in S. litura -infested pear leaves supports a potential role for PbeOCS in herbivore-induced plant defenses. In enzyme-catalyzed reaction, recombinant PbeOCS utilized only geranyl pyrophosphate but not neryl diphosphate, farnesyl pyrophosphate or geranylgeranyl diphosphate as a substrate, producing ( E )-β-ocimene as the major product and a trace amount of ( Z )-β-ocimene. Moreover, as a catalytic product of PbeOCS, ( E )-β-ocimene showed repellent effects on larvae of S. litura in dual-choice bioassays. What is more, ( E )-β-ocimene increased mortalities of larvae in no-choice bioassays. These findings provide an overview of transcriptomic changes in wild pears in response to chewing herbivores and insights into ( E )-β-ocimene biosynthesis in pear plants, which will help elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying pear-insect interactions., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Huang, Zhang, Li, Wang, Guo, Liu, Han, Zhen, Li, Shi and Zhang.)

Background: In precapillary pulmonary hypertension (PH), the incidence of different tricuspid regurgitation (TR) degree is poorly defined. The impact of TR severity on pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) assessment and clinical risk stratification in precapillary PH remains unclear., Methods: A total of 207 patients diagnosed precapillary PH who underwent right heart catheterization (RHC) and echocardiography within 3 days were included. The severity of TR was graded as trace, mild, moderate and severe. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between systolic PAP by echocardiography (sPAP ECHO ) and mean PAP by RHC (mPAP RHC ) in different TR degree groups. The impact factors on risk stratification of precapillary PH were analyzed by logistic regression analysis., Results: The proportion of None, Trace, Mild, Moderate and Severe TR group was 2.4%, 23.7%, 39.1%, 28.5% and 6.3% respectively. Right atrium (RA) area increased gradually with TR aggravation (p < 0.001). Moderate and Severe TR group had higher N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (p < 0.001), right atrial pressure (RAP) (p = 0.018), right ventricular basal diameter (RVD)/left ventricular basal diameter (LVD) ratio (p < 0.001), larger right ventricle (RV) (p < 0.001) and lower tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (p = 0.006) compared with Trace and Mild group. TR-sPAP ECHO in Moderate TR group had the greatest correlation coefficient with mPAP RHC (0.742, p < 0.001) followed by Mild (0.635, p < 0.001) and severe group (0.592, p = 0.033), while there was no correlation in Trace TR group (0.308, p = 0.076). Multivariate logistic regression showed three significant independent echocardiography predictors of high-risk precapillary PH: RVD/LVD ratio (OR = 5.734; 95%CI1.502-21.889, p = 0.011), RA area (OR 1.054; 95% CI 1.004-1.107, p = 0.035) and systolic annular tissue velocity of the lateral tricuspid annulus (S') (OR 0.735, 95% CI 0.569-0.949, p = 0.018)., Conclusions: Precapillary PH was not necessarily accompanied by significant TR. None or Trace TRaccounted for 26% in our population and TR-sPAP ECHO was not applicable to estimate PAP in these patients. RVD/LVD ratio, RA area and S' can independently predict the high-risk patients with precapillary PH. TR may play an indirect role in risk stratification by affecting these indicators., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

L. plantarum 1.0386 repairs intestinal epithelial tight junction injury, and the present study was designed to further explore the role of its postbiotics, including the surface protein (1.0386-Slp), peptidoglycan (1.0386-PG) and exopolysaccharide (1.0386-EPS). The results showed that they all could improve the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced decrease of transepithelial electrical resistance, increase of paracellular permeability, release of inflammatory factors, and disruption of tight junctions in Caco-2 cells, and the repairing effect of 1.0386-Slp was better than those of 1.0386-PG and 1.0386-EPS, and was similar to that of L. plantarum 1.0386. Moreover, either L. plantarum 1.0386 or 1.0386-Slp intervention significantly increased the expression of miR-200c inhibited by LPS, while the miR-200c inhibitor weakened the ability of 1.0386-Slp to promote the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin and claudin-1). Meanwhile, 1.0386-Slp restored the distribution of tight junction proteins and inhibited the increase of NF-κB p65, MLC and pMLC protein expression evoked by LPS. However, the addition of miR-200c inhibitors or mimics weakened or strengthened the down-regulation of MLCK-MLC pathway protein expression by 1.0386-Slp, respectively. In summary, 1.0386-Slp may be the main efficacy component of L. plantarum 1.0386, and miR-200c may be involved in the process of 1.0386-Slp inhibiting the MLCK pathway to repair intestinal epithelial tight junction injury.

In this study, we analyzed the concentration distributions of 20 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 41 water samples which were collected from the northern part of Taihu Lake during 4 field campaigns (201511, 201606, 201702 and 201709). The concentrations were determined with GC-MS, and their spatial and seasonal distribution characteristics were interpreted. The results show that 2-ring PAHs present considerably higher concentrations in warm seasons than cold seasons, but the concentrations of the other higher-ring PAHs are rather stable in warm and cold seasons. The distribution patterns of these PAHs might be mainly attributed to ambient temperature effects on the PAH solubility in the water body. Meanwhile, the spatial distributions of the PAH concentrations in cold seasons were rather various in the sampling area, while the distributions in the warm seasons were homogeneous. The different distributions could result from the water recharge from the Yangtze River during cold seasons, which diluted PAH concentrations in the northeastern part of the lake. Furthermore, via literature review on PAH concentrations in water body, PAHs are in a wide range of levels and their patterns are different among the studies, which should be more effected by local factors instead of general PAH properties. The results from this study also present special characteristics of PAHs in Taihu Lake, which exhibit more insight on PAHs existence in water bodies., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

In this work, biphenyl was used as carbon source to enrich microorganisms from polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)-contaminated paddy soil samples, and the taxonomic structures in both of the soil samples and the fourth-generation enrichments were examined with high-throughput sequencing. Single cells were isolated from the enrichments via single cell sorting technology named Laser Induced Visualized Ejection Separation Technology (LIVEST) and also traditional single colony sorting, and the genera of the isolates were identified using 16S rRNA sequencing. The results from high-throughput sequencing present that enrichment from generation to generation can considerably change the microbial community. Comparing the two sorting methods, the LIVEST is more time-saving and cell-targeted for microbial resource exploration. Based on the further verification of biphenyl degradation, it was found that some strains belonging to genera Macrococcus, Aerococcus and Metabacillus are capable in degrading biphenyl, which have not been reported yet., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a major type of lung cancer with poor prognosis and low 5-year survival rate, which urgently needs further investigation in order to elucidate its mechanisms completely and discover novel therapeutic targets. C1orf74 is a novel protein with unknown function either in normal cells or cancer cells. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression and function of C1orf74 in LUAD cells., Methods: The expression of C1orf74 in LUAD was analyzed using the LUAD datasets from public databases. The prognostic value of C1orf74 in LUAD was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier Plotter. C1orf74 expression in LUAD cell line A549, H1993 and HCC827 was silenced using small interfering RNA, and then the effects of C1orf74 knockdown on proliferation, migration and invasion of LUAD cells were detected by colony formation assay and Transwell assay, the role of C1orf74 in EGFR/AKT/mTORC1 signaling pathway was examined by Western blot, and the function of C1orf74 in cell cycle was detected by flow cytometry., Results: The results of LUAD clinical data showed that C1orf74 was upregulated in LUAD tissues, and its high expression was associated with poor prognosis. The results from cultured LUAD cells demonstrated that C1orf74 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but induced cell cycle arrest and autophagy. Moreover, C1orf74 knockdown suppressed EGFR/AKT/mTORC1 signaling in LUAD cells. In conclusion, the present study revealed that C1orf74 is upregulated in LUAD tissues and plays an oncogenic role in LUAD, and that C1orf74 positively regulates cell proliferation and mobility through the EGFR/AKT/mTORC1 signaling pathway in LUAD cells., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2022 Guo et al.)

Keratin 15 (KRT15) overexpression links with tumor initiation, metastasis, and poor survival in several solid carcinomas. While its clinical relevance is scarcely reported in endometrial cancer (EC). Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate the abnormal expression of KRT15 and its correlation with clinical characteristics, survival in EC patients. Totally, 135 surgical EC patients were enrolled. KRT15 protein expression in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tumor and adjuvant tissues was detected by immunohistochemical staining; meanwhile, KRT15 mRNA expression in fresh-frozen tumor and adjacent tissues was detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. KRT15 protein and mRNA expressions were higher in tumor tissue compared with adjacent tissue (both P < .001). Elevated KRT15 protein expression was correlated with the occurrence of lymphovascular invasion (P = .010) and more advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage (P = .018); meanwhile, elevated KRT15 mRNA expression was linked with more advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage (P = .038) and marginally associated with the occurrence of stromal cervical invasion (P = .052). Besides, KRT15 protein and mRNA expressions were not correlated with other clinical features (all P > .05). KRT15 protein high was marginally correlated with poor accumulating disease-free survival (DFS) (P = .091) and overall survival (OS) (P = .059); meanwhile, the correlation of KRT15 mRNA expression with accumulating DFS (P = .212) and OS (P = .092) was even weaker. However, multivariate Cox's regressions showed that tumor KRT15 protein (high vs low) was independently correlated with poor DFS (P = .045) and OS (P = .043). KRT15 is abnormally increased in EC tissue, meanwhile, its upregulation links to the occurrence of lymphovascular invasion, stromal cervical invasion, and poor prognosis in EC patients., Competing Interests: The authors have no funding and conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2022 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.)

A-kinase-interacting protein 1 (AKIP1), as a recently discovered oncoprotein, promotes cell malignant behaviors in gynecological malignancies. To the best of our knowledge, no study reports its clinical value in patients with endometrial carcinoma. The present study aimed to explore the association between AKIP1 expression and clinical features and survival in patients with endometrial carcinoma, and to assess the effect of AKIP1 knockdown on the regulation of chemosensitivity in vitro . The tumor and adjacent tissue specimens from 101 patients with endometrial carcinoma were retrieved for AKIP1 protein expression analysis using an immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay. Meanwhile, specimens from 54 patients with endometrial carcinoma were analyzed for AKIP1 mRNA expression using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Furthermore, an in vitro experiment was conducted in the Ishikawa cell line to determine the effect of AKIP1 modification on the chemosensitivity of cisplatin and paclitaxel. AKIP1 IHC score (P<0.001) and mRNA expression levels (P<0.001) were increased in tumor tissues compared with those in adjacent tissues. Moreover, increased AKIP1 IHC score was associated with lymphovascular invasion (P=0.007), advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage (P=0.002) and shorter overall survival (OS) time (P=0.035) in the patients with endometrial carcinoma. Meanwhile, upregulated AKIP1 mRNA expression levels were associated with lymphovascular invasion (P=0.020) and advanced FIGO stage (P=0.027) in the patients with endometrial carcinoma. Multivariate Cox regression showed that tumor AKIP1 protein expression (high vs. low) independently predicted a shorter OS time (P=0.036). Silencing of AKIP1 decreased Ishikawa cell viability when treated with 5, 10, 20 and 40 µM cisplatin (all P<0.05) and decreased the half maximal inhibitory concentration value of cisplatin (P=0.003), whereas its effect on paclitaxel chemosensitivity was less obvious. Overall, elevated AKIP1 expression was associated with tumor invasion, shorter survival time and decreased chemosensitivity in endometrial carcinoma., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Li et al.)

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL) on the repair of monolayer barrier damage in Caco-2 cells by Lactobacillus rhamnosus KLDS 8001 (KLDS 8001). The results showed that the addition of 2'-FL not only promoted the adhesion ability of KLDS 8001 to Caco-2 cells but also improved the anti-adhesive effect of pathogenic bacteria. Compared with 2'-FL or KLDS 8001 alone, 2'-FL+KLDS 8001 significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced malondialdehyde (MDA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, and cytokine (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) production. In addition, 2'-FL effectively promoted the transmembrane electrical resistance (TEER), cell viability, and cellular permeability of KLDS 8001 repaired damaged cells with dose-dependent properties. The mRNA and protein expression of Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1), Occludin, and Claudin-1 were also upregulated in the KLDS 8001 and 2'-FL co-treated treatment group. It was speculated that 2'-FL could effectively regulate the interaction between KLDS 8001 and intestinal epithelial cells to play a role in maintaining intestinal barrier function and avoiding pathogenic bacteria invasion. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: As the most widely used human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), 2'-FL is vital for maintaining infant intestinal health. Our study found that the addition of 2'-FL promoted KLDS 8001 adhesion, anti-adhesion of pathogenic bacteria, anti-inflammatory capacity, repair of barrier damage, and tight junction protein expression, providing a new strategy to protect infant intestinal health and prevent various intestinal diseases., (© 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Menaquinone-7 (MK-7) is an important vitamin K 2 , synthesized from the menaquinone parent ring and seven isoprene side chains. Presently, the synthesis of MK-7 stimulated by environmental stress primarily focuses on oxygen stress, while the effect of alkali stress is rarely studied. Therefore, this study researched the effects of alkali stress on the fermentation performance and gene expression of Bacillus subtilis natto . The organism's growth characteristics, biomass, sporogenesis, MK-7 biosynthesis, and gene expression were analyzed. After a pH 8.5 stress adaptation treatment for 0.5 h and subsequent fermentation at pH 8.5, which promoted the growth of the strain and inhibited the spore formation rate. In addition, biomass was significantly increased ( P < 0.05). The conversion rate of glycerol to MK-7 was 1.68 times higher than that of the control group, and the yield of MK-7 increased to 2.10 times. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the MK-7 high-yielding strain had enhanced carbon source utilization, increased glycerol and pyruvate metabolism, enhanced the Embden-Meyerhof pathway (EMP), tricarboxylic acid (TCA) circulation flux, and terpenoid biosynthesis pathway, and promoted the accumulation of acetyl-CoA, the side-chain precursor of isoprene. At the same time, the up-regulation of transketolase increased the metabolic flux of the pentose phosphate (HMP) pathway, which was conducive to the accumulation of D-erythrose 4-phosphate, the precursor of the menadione parent ring. This study's results contribute to a better understanding of the effects of environmental stress on MK-7 fermentation by Bacillus subtilis natto and the molecular regulatory mechanism of MK-7 biosynthesis., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Chen, Shang, Zhang, Sun, Zhang, Liu, Li, Li and Du.)