Catalpa bungei,a fast-growing timber tree,is threatened by the lepidopteran pest Omphisa plagialis.Previous studies in our laboratory successfully generated transgenic C.bungei lines overexpressing Cry genes(Cry1Ab,Cr...Catalpa bungei,a fast-growing timber tree,is threatened by the lepidopteran pest Omphisa plagialis.Previous studies in our laboratory successfully generated transgenic C.bungei lines overexpressing Cry genes(Cry1Ab,Cry2A,and Cry9-2)that exhibited resistance to O.plagialis,but their potential impact on soil bacterial communities remains unclear.In this study,we analyzed nine transgenic C.bungei lines(three independent lines for each Cry gene)to characterize their rhizosphere bacterial communities using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S ribosomal DNA(rDNA)V4-V5 regions.A total of 628 amplicon sequence variants(ASVs)were shared among all transgenic and wild-type(WT)lines,forming a stable core microbiome dominated by Proteobacteria,Bacteroidota,Acidobacteriota,and Actinobacteriota.Alpha diversity showed no significant differences,while beta diversity revealed minor but distinct compositional shifts.Cry1Ab lines exhibited higher abundances of fast-growing taxa,particularly Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota;Cry2A lines displayed intermediate profiles,whereas Cry9-2 lines were nearly indistinguishable from WT communities.Linear discriminant analysis of the effect size revealed significant enrichment of taxa such as Burkholderiaceae and Ralstonia in the Cry1Ab rhizosphere,in contrast to the higher abundance of Chloroflexi in the WT.Functional predictions indicated consistent metabolic pathways across all treatments,suggesting strong ecological redundancy.This study demonstrates minimal impact on rhizosphere microbial communities in transgenic C.bungei plants.The Cry9-2 construct exhibited superior environmental stability,whereas the Cry1Ab construct caused only slight but ecologically acceptable shifts.These findings support the ecological safety of Bt-transgenic C.bungei and identify Cry9-2 as a particularly favorable candidate for forestry applications.This comparative evaluation of three Cry genes in a tree species provides a framework for future gene-specific biosafety assessments in woody plants.展开更多
DNA microarray technology is an extremely effective technique for studying gene expression patterns in cells, and the main challenge currently faced by this technology is how to analyze the large amount of gene expres...DNA microarray technology is an extremely effective technique for studying gene expression patterns in cells, and the main challenge currently faced by this technology is how to analyze the large amount of gene expression data generated. To address this, this paper employs a mixed-effects model to analyze gene expression data. In terms of data selection, 1176 genes from the white mouse gene expression dataset under two experimental conditions were chosen, setting up two conditions: pneumococcal infection and no infection, and constructing a mixed-effects model. After preprocessing the gene chip information, the data were imported into the model, preliminary results were calculated, and permutation tests were performed to biologically validate the preliminary results using GSEA. The final dataset consists of 20 groups of gene expression data from pneumococcal infection, which categorizes functionally related genes based on the similarity of their expression profiles, facilitating the study of genes with unknown functions.展开更多
Reductive soil disinfestation(RSD)is commonly employed for soil remediation in greenhouse cultivation.However,its influence on antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs)in soil remains uncertain.This study investigated the dyn...Reductive soil disinfestation(RSD)is commonly employed for soil remediation in greenhouse cultivation.However,its influence on antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs)in soil remains uncertain.This study investigated the dynamic changes in soil communities,potential bacterial pathogens,and ARG profiles under various organicmaterial treatments during RSD,including distillers’grains,potato peel,peanut vine,and peanut vine combined with charcoal.Results revealed that applying diverse organic materials in RSD significantly altered bacterial community composition and diminished the relative abundance of potential bacterial pathogens(P<0.05).The relative abundance of high-risk ARGs decreased by 10.7%-30.6%after RSD treatments,the main decreased ARG subtypeswere AAC(3)_Via,dfrA1,ErmB,lnuB,aadA.Actinobacteria was the primary host of ARGs and was suppressed by RSD.Soil physicochemical properties,such as total nitrogen,soil pH,total carbon,were crucial factors affecting ARG profiles.Our findings demonstrated that RSD treatment inhibited pathogenic bacteria and could be an option for reducing high-risk ARG proliferation in soil.展开更多
BACKGROUND The gastric microbiome is closely associated with gastric cancer,and single-region 16S rRNA sequencing has limitations in analyzing its characteristics,necessitating the search for a better sequencing metho...BACKGROUND The gastric microbiome is closely associated with gastric cancer,and single-region 16S rRNA sequencing has limitations in analyzing its characteristics,necessitating the search for a better sequencing method.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of multi-region 16S rRNA gene sequencing in studying the microbiome of gastric cancer tissues.METHODS Patients with gastric cancer(n=118)who underwent surgery at Liyang People's Hospital from January 2022 to December 2024 were enrolled.Fifty-nine paraffinembedded and 59 fresh tissue samples were obtained.The ZymoBIOMICSTM microbial community standard and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 were used as positive controls.Multi-region and single-region 16S rRNA gene sequencing were performed.Species identification,detection rates at varying microbial abundances,operational taxonomic unit(OTU)counts,and alpha diversity indices in gastric cancer tissues were compared between the two methods.RESULTS Multi-region 16S rRNA sequencing identified more species(eight species and eight genera)in the positive controls compared with single-region sequencing(one species and six genera).Detection rates at concentrations of 103,102,and 10 CFU/mg were significantly higher using multi-region sequencing(P<0.05).Multi-region sequencing also revealed significantly higher OTU counts and alpha diversity indices(Shannon,Simpson,and Chao1)in gastric cancer tissues(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Compared with single-region sequencing,multi-region 16S rRNA gene sequencing demonstrates superior species resolution and detection sensitivity,providing a more comprehensive profile of microbial diversity in gastric cancer tissues.展开更多
Effect web will be an important combat means to achieve accurate,efficient,agile and reliable destruction of enemy targets.The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles(UAV)cluster in warfare has become a key element in the bat...Effect web will be an important combat means to achieve accurate,efficient,agile and reliable destruction of enemy targets.The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles(UAV)cluster in warfare has become a key element in the battle for military superiority between nations.The construction of UAV cluster effect web is a kind of combinatorial optimization in essence.By selecting the optimal combination in the limited equipment concentration,the whole network can be optimized.Firstly,in order to improve the combinatorial optimization efficiency of UAV cluster effect web,NSGA-Ⅱbased on deep Q-network(DQN-based NSGA-Ⅱ)is proposed.This algorithm is used to solve the Multi-Objective Combinatorial Optimization(MOCO)problem in the construction of effect web.Secondly,a dynamic generation method is devised to solve the problem caused by the possible destruction of enemy and our node under the fierce confrontation between the two sides.Finally,the simulation results show that the DQN-based NSGA-Ⅱis better than the genetic algorithm with single operator.The comparison experiment shows that the weight of evaluation indexes will have a corresponding influence on the optimization results.展开更多
This paper demonstrated the generation of multi-wavelength bound state noise-like pulse(BNLP)in a dispersion-managed composite-filtered fiber laser consisting of nonlinear polarization rotation(NPR)and loop.In the cas...This paper demonstrated the generation of multi-wavelength bound state noise-like pulse(BNLP)in a dispersion-managed composite-filtered fiber laser consisting of nonlinear polarization rotation(NPR)and loop.In the case of BNLP,the generation is caused by the interaction between two noise-like pulses(NLPs)induced by the comb-filtering effect,and bound state level can be artificially controlled in the researches.Our work provides a new method for generating low-coherence pulses and establishes a research idea for the study of the comb-filtering effects.展开更多
Multi-electron and multi-orbital effects play a crucial role in the interaction of strong laser fields with complex molecules.Here,multi-electron effects encompass not only electron-electron Coulomb interactions and e...Multi-electron and multi-orbital effects play a crucial role in the interaction of strong laser fields with complex molecules.Here,multi-electron effects encompass not only electron-electron Coulomb interactions and exchangecorrelation effects but also the interference between the dynamics of different electron wave packets.展开更多
Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder marked by positive and negative symptoms,leading to mood disturbances,cognitive impairments,and social withdrawal.While anti-psychotic medications remain the cornerstone...Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder marked by positive and negative symptoms,leading to mood disturbances,cognitive impairments,and social withdrawal.While anti-psychotic medications remain the cornerstone of treatment,they often fail to fully address certain symptoms.Additionally,treatment-resistant schizophrenia,affecting 30%-40%of patients,remains a substantial clinical challenge.Positive,negative symptoms and cognitive impairments have been linked to disruptions in the glutamatergic,serotonin,GABAergic,and muscarinic pathways in the brain.Recent advances using genome-wide association study and other approaches have uncovered a significant number of new schizophrenia risk genes that uncovered new,and reinforced prior,concepts on the genetic and neurological underpinnings of schizophrenia,including abnormalities in synaptic function,immune processes,and lipid metabolism.Concurrently,new therapeutics targeting different modalities,which are expected to address some of the limitations of anti-psychotic drugs currently being offered to patients,are currently being evaluated.Collectively,these efforts provide new momentum for the next phase of schizophrenia research and treatment.展开更多
Drugs and pesticide residues in broiler feed can compromise the therapeutic and production benefits of antibiotic(ANT)application and affect gene expression.In this study,we analyzed the expression of 13 key pancreati...Drugs and pesticide residues in broiler feed can compromise the therapeutic and production benefits of antibiotic(ANT)application and affect gene expression.In this study,we analyzed the expression of 13 key pancreatic genes and blood physiology parameters after administering one maximum residue limit of herbicide glyphosate(GLY),two ANTs,and one anticoccidial drug(AD).A total of 260 Ross 308 broilers aged 1-40 d were divided into the following four groups of 65 birds each:control group,which was fed the main diet(MD),and three experimental groups,which were fed MD supplemented with GLY,GLY+ANTs(enrofloxacin and colistin methanesulfonate),and GLY+AD(ammonium maduramicin),respectively.The results showed that the addition of GLY,GLY+ANTs,and GLY+AD caused significant changes in the expression of several genes of physiological and economic importance.In particular,genes related to inflammation and apoptosis(interleukin 6(IL6),prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2(PTGS2),and caspase 6(CASP6))were downregulated by up to 99.1%,and those related to antioxidant protection(catalase(CAT),superoxide dismutase 1(SOD1)and peroxiredoxin 6(PRDX6))by up to 98.6%,compared to controls.There was also a significant decline in the values of immunological characteristics in the blood serum observed in the experimental groups,and certain changes in gene expression were concordant with changes in the functioning of the pancreas and blood.The changes revealed in gene expression and blood indices in response to GLY,ANTs,and AD provide insights into the possible mechanisms of action of these agents at the molecular level.Specifically,these changes may be indicative of physiological mechanisms to overcome the negative effects of GLY,GLY+ANTs,and GLY+AD in broilers.展开更多
Based on two waves of CHARLS data,this paper uses descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression estimation model to analyze the effect of age on the intergenerational economic support for the rural elderly w...Based on two waves of CHARLS data,this paper uses descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression estimation model to analyze the effect of age on the intergenerational economic support for the rural elderly within the framework of three-generation lineal group families.The study found that the diffusion effect of age on the intergenerational economic support for the rural elderly still existed when using a five-year age group model as the measure.In the distribution of intergenerational economic support for the rural elderly by age group,there was a notable decline in economic support from the filial generation for those aged 85 and above.For the age group of 85 and above,it was the grandchild generation that gradually increased its economic support,the result of a form of intergenerational relay for the care of the elderly.Comparison of the two waves of data reveals that familism still exhibits a strong resilience and is behind the intergenerational cooperation in Chinese rural families.The culture of filial piety and respect for elders,which reflects China’s national characteristics as well as contemporary values,should continue to be promoted.To achieve this,it is necessary to maintain the supportive function of family-based care for the rural elderly through family-friendly policies and the systematic improvement of the current multi-tiered policies for the care of the rural elderly.展开更多
Gene expression and the content of hormones regulating feed intake and digestion are crucial for understanding gastric evacuation(GE)and feeding frequency in fish.This study assessed the effects of temperature and siz...Gene expression and the content of hormones regulating feed intake and digestion are crucial for understanding gastric evacuation(GE)and feeding frequency in fish.This study assessed the effects of temperature and size on these parameters by examining the domestication of steelhead trout(Oncorhynchus mykiss)at four temperatures(8℃,12℃,16℃,and 20℃)and with two sizes(75.99 g±10.48 g and 140.21 g±22.08 g)over two weeks.The trout were fasted for 72 h before the GE trial to ensure complete gastric emptying.In each GE trial,the expressions of peptide tyrosine(PYY),cholecystokinin(CCK),and ghrelin genes,along with corresponding serum hormone levels,were measured before feeding and at 0 h and 24 h after feeding,in conjunction with feed intake and 24-h gastric content mass.Results revealed significant effects of temperature on the expression of the three gastric genes.CCK expression increased at 8℃,correlating with reduced feed intake,while PYY and CCK increased at 20℃,correlating with accelerated gastric evacuation.Size significantly influenced serum levels of all three hormones,but the interaction between temperature and size did not affect PYY and ghrelin expression or their serum contents.This study provides molecular insights into how temperature and size regulate the digestion of steelhead trout,offering a theoretical framework for optimizing feeding frequency in aquaculture practices.展开更多
Pulmonary artery remodeling is a critical pathological feature of pulmonary arterial hypertension(PAH),a fatal lung disease without cure,resulting in poor pulmonary hemodynamics and compliance.The remodeling could be ...Pulmonary artery remodeling is a critical pathological feature of pulmonary arterial hypertension(PAH),a fatal lung disease without cure,resulting in poor pulmonary hemodynamics and compliance.The remodeling could be aggravated by various factors,particularly by the hyperproliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells(PASMCs)and perivascular inflammation.Meanwhile,the hyperproliferation of PASMCs can be driven by the overexpression of miR138.In this study,we developed anti-inflammatory baicalein-assisted anti-miR138 gene therapy against PAH.The system was fabricated by anchoring the nucleic acid onto the nanocrystals through electrostatic interaction,followed by glucuronic acid(GA)coating for targeting the glucose transport-1(GLUT-1)receptor.The results demonstrated that the system had a 201-nm in diameter with a rod shape and allowed a 12-fold increase in pulmonary artery(PA)targeting versus free drug administration.The preparation injection reduced the PA thickness by 20%via effectively promoting PASMC apoptosis,likely by strengthening the pathway of Bcl-2 associated X protein/B-cell lymphoma-2/caspase 3(Bax/Bcl-2/Cas-3).The in vivo efficacy in the monocrotaline(MCT)-PAH model demonstrated significant improvement in the pulmonary hemodynamics,e.g.,a 50%decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure(mPAP),61%increase in pulmonary artery acceleration time(PAAT),and 82%increase in cardiac output(CO).In conclusion,targeted codelivery of the inflammation inhibitor and anti-miR138 to PAs is promising to combat PAH.Rod-shaped nanomedicines represent an effective PA-targeting strategy.展开更多
In recent years,the biodegradable plastics has extensively used in industry,agriculture,and daily life.Herein,the effects of two biodegradable microplastics(BMPs),poly(butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate)(PBAT)and polyhy...In recent years,the biodegradable plastics has extensively used in industry,agriculture,and daily life.Herein,the effects of two biodegradable microplastics(BMPs),poly(butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate)(PBAT)and polyhydroxyalkanoate(PHA),on soil sulfamethoxazole(SMX)degradation and sul genes development were comparatively studied based on the type,dosage,and state.The addition of virgin BMPs significantly increased soil DOC following a sequential order PBAT>PHA and high dose>low dose.Meanwhile virgin PBAT significantly reduced soil pH.In general,the addition of BMPs not only promoted soil SMX degradation but also increased the abundance of sul genes,with an exception that pH reduction in virgin PBAT inhibited the proliferation of sul genes.The driving effects of BMPs on soil microbial diversity following the same order as that on DOC.Specific bacteria stimulated by BMPs,such as Arthrobacter and two genera affiliated with phylum TM7,accounted for the accelerated degradation of SMX.Intriguingly,UV-aging hindered the release of DOC from BMPs and the reduction in pH,mitigated the stimulation of microbial communities,and ultimately reduced the promotion effect of BMPs on SMX degradation and sul genes proliferation.Our results suggest that more attention should be paid to the proliferation risk of ARGs in the environment affected by BMPs and UV-aging can be employed sometimes to reduce this risk.展开更多
Low-frequency signals have been proven valuable in the fields of target detection and geological exploration.Nevertheless,the practical implementation of these signals is hindered by large antenna diameters,limiting t...Low-frequency signals have been proven valuable in the fields of target detection and geological exploration.Nevertheless,the practical implementation of these signals is hindered by large antenna diameters,limiting their potential applications.Therefore,it is imperative to study the creation of lowfrequency signals using antennas with suitable dimensions.In contrast to conventional mechanical antenna techniques,our study generates low-frequency signals in the spatial domain utilizing the principle of the Doppler effect.We also defines the antenna array architecture,the timing sequency,and the radiating element signal waveform,and provides experimental prototypes including 8/64 antennas based on earlier research.In the conducted experiments,121 MHz,40 MHz,and 10 kHz composite signals are generated by 156 MHz radiating element signals.The composite signal spectrum matches the simulations,proving our low-frequency signal generating method works.This holds significant implications for research on generating low-frequency signals with small-sized antennas.展开更多
Quantitative real-time PCR(qPCR)is widely used for gene expression analysis,but its accuracy critically depends on stable internal reference genes for normalization.In marine invertebrates,especially non-model taxa su...Quantitative real-time PCR(qPCR)is widely used for gene expression analysis,but its accuracy critically depends on stable internal reference genes for normalization.In marine invertebrates,especially non-model taxa such as cephalopods,systematic evaluation of reference genes is limited,leading to potential bias.The cuttlefish Sepiella japonica is ecologically and economically important in China,yet previous molecular studies have often relied on single unvalidated reference genes,which may compromise data reliability.This study aimed to systematically evaluate the stability of five commonly used reference genes(18S,ef-1α,ef-1γ,gapdh,andβ-actin)across multiple tissues and sexes of S.japonica,and to identify the most suitable reference genes and optimal number for qPCR normalization.Fifteen to sixteen tissue types were collected from ten healthy adults(five males and five females).Total RNA was extracted,reverse-transcribed,and analyzed by qPCR.Gene stability was assessed using four algorithms(geNorm,NormFinder,BestKeeper,andΔCt)integrated with RefFinder,and the optimal gene number was determined using geNorm pairwise variation(V_(n/n+1)<0.15).Four transcriptome-derived genes(creld2,cd109,acy1,and miox)were used for validation.The C_(t)values of the five genes ranged from 15.47 to 20.83.β-actin and gapdh showed pronounced variability in expression stability among tissues and sexes,indicating their limited suitability for normalization.18S exhibited the highest expression(mean C_(t):15.47-16.29)and lowest variability but displayed sex-biased expression,whereas ef-1αand ef-1γremained consistently stable across most tissues in both sexes,with ef-1αbeing the most robust and showing no sex-related bias.Although specific rankings varied among tissues and sexes,the comprehensive results indicated that ef-1αand ef-1γpossessed the highest overall stability,followed by 18S,whileβ-actin and gapdh were the least stable.The final comprehensive rankings were ef-1γ>ef-1α>18S>gapdh>β-actin(male)and ef-1α>ef-1γ>18S>gapdh>β-actin(female).geNorm analysis(V2/3<0.15)indicated that two genes,mainly ef-1αand ef-1γ,were generally sufficient for reliable normalization in most tissues.Validation confirmed that normalization using the stable ef-1αand ef-1γaccurately reflected the expression differences among tissues,whereasβ-actin and gapdh can bias or confound statistical analyses.ef-1αand ef-1γare identified as the most reliable reference gene combination for qPCR analysis in S.japonica,while 18S can serve as an auxiliary gene for within-sex comparisons.The use ofβ-actin or gapdh alone is not recommended.This study establishes a systematic framework for selecting reliable reference genes in S.japonica,thereby facilitating robust qPCR normalization and providing a foundation for future gene expression research in S.japonica and other cephalopods.展开更多
Environmental fluctuations are a pervasive natural phenomenon that typically favor diverse maternal investment strategies.Organisms across various evolutionary lineages have acquired the ability to enter the dormancy ...Environmental fluctuations are a pervasive natural phenomenon that typically favor diverse maternal investment strategies.Organisms across various evolutionary lineages have acquired the ability to enter the dormancy state to tolerate conditions that are unsuitable for normal life activities.In cyclical parthenogenesis,sexual reproduction is generally linked with dormancy,thereby enhancing the long-term fitness of populations through positive feedback mechanisms.This study evaluates the impact of environmental variability on offspring population dynamics through sexual reproduction in the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus.We found that mictic females(sexual females)exposed to low-predictability environments produced resting eggs with a sporadic hatching pattern,reduced hatching rate,and smaller sizes of resting egg,embryo,and stem females,while increasing variations in fertilization among individuals to maximize population fitness.Variations in population growth could be manifested in enhanced reproductive capacity 2–3 d post-hatching,along with differences in fecundity among individuals.This suggests that dormant eggs from unstable environments may prioritize offspring survival and adjust to increased fertilization among individuals.This adaptive strategy enables rotifer populations to rapidly adjust to environmental changes,thus avoiding extinction and thriving in diverse habitats.Our systematic study enhances the understanding of how environmental stability affects long-term population fitness in cyclical parthenogens.展开更多
Flight feathers represent a hallmark innovation of avian evolution.Recent comparative genomic analyses identified a 284 bp avian-specific highly conserved element(ASHCE)located within the eighth intron of the SIM bHLH...Flight feathers represent a hallmark innovation of avian evolution.Recent comparative genomic analyses identified a 284 bp avian-specific highly conserved element(ASHCE)located within the eighth intron of the SIM bHLH transcription factor 1(Sim1)gene,postulated to act as a cis-regulatory element governing flight feather morphogenesis.To investigate its functional significance,genome-edited(GE)primordial germ cell(PGC)lines carrying targeted ASHCE deletions were generated using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing,with germline chimeric males subsequently mated with wild-type(WT)hens to obtain GE progeny.The resulting GE chickens harbored 257-260 bp deletions,excising approximately half of the Sim1-ASHCE sequence.Reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)analysis showed an average 0.32-fold reduction in Sim1 expression in the forelimbs of GE embryos at day 8(E8)compared to WT counterparts.Despite this,GE chickens developed structurally normal flight and tail feathers.In situ hybridization localized Sim1 expression to the posterior mesenchyme surrounding flight feather buds in E8 WT embryos,but not within the buds themselves.These results suggest that partial deletion of Sim1-ASHCE,despite diminishing Sim1 expression,does not disrupt flight feather formation.The excised region appears to possess enhancer activity toward Sim1 but is dispensable for flight feather development.Complete ablation of the ASHCE will be necessary to fully resolve the regulatory role of Sim1 in avian feather morphogenesis.展开更多
Although generative conversational artificial intelligence(AI)can answer questions well and hold conversations as a person,the semantic ambiguity inherent in text-based communication poses challenges to effective use....Although generative conversational artificial intelligence(AI)can answer questions well and hold conversations as a person,the semantic ambiguity inherent in text-based communication poses challenges to effective use.Effective use reflects the users’utilization of generative conversational AI to achieve their goals,which has not been previously studied.Drawing on the media naturalness theory,we examined how generative conversational AI’s content and style naturalness affect effective use.A two-wave survey was conducted to collect data from 565 users of generative conversational AI.Two techniques were used in this study.Initially,partial least squares structural equation modeling(PLS-SEM)was applied to determine the variables that significantly affected the mechanisms(i.e.,cognitive effort and communication ambiguity)and effective use.Secondly,an artificial neural network model was used to evaluate the relative importance of the significant predictors of mechanisms and effective use identified from the PLS-SEM analysis.The results revealed that the naturalness of content and style differed in their effects on cognitive effort and communication ambiguity.Additionally,cognitive effort and communication ambiguity negatively affected effective use.This study advances the literature on effective use by uncovering the psychological mechanisms underlying effective use and their antecedents.In addition,this study offers insights into the design of generative conversational AI.展开更多
BACKGROUND Lotus plumule and its active components have demonstrated inhibitory effects on gastric cancer(GC).However,the molecular mechanism of lotus plumule against GC remains unclear and requires further investigat...BACKGROUND Lotus plumule and its active components have demonstrated inhibitory effects on gastric cancer(GC).However,the molecular mechanism of lotus plumule against GC remains unclear and requires further investigation.AIM To identify the key hub genes associated with the anti-GC effects of lotus plumule.METHODS This study investigated the potential targets of traditional Chinese medicine for inhibiting GC using weighted gene co-expression network analysis and bio-informatics.Initially,the active components and targets of the lotus plumule and the differentially expressed genes associated with GC were identified.Sub-sequently,a protein-protein interaction network was constructed to elucidate the interactions between drug targets and disease-related genes,facilitating the identification of hub genes within the network.The clinical significance of these hub genes was evaluated,and their upstream transcription factors and down-stream targets were identified.The binding ability of a hub gene with its down-stream targets was verified using molecular docking technology.Finally,molecular docking was performed to evaluate the binding affinity between the active ingredients of lotus plumule and the hub gene.RESULTS This study identified 26 genes closely associated with GC.Machine learning analysis and external validation narrowed the list to four genes:Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10,fructose-bisphosphatase 1,protein arginine methyltransferase 1,and carbonic anhydrase 9.These genes indicated a strong correlation with anti-GC activity.CONCLUSION Lotus plumule exhibits anti-GC effects.This study identified four hub genes with potential as novel targets for diagnosing and treating GC,providing innovative perspectives for its clinical management.展开更多
5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)is a biological monoamine neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and gonads of crustaceans to induce gonadal maturation.To better understand the effects of 5-HT and its receptors on re...5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)is a biological monoamine neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and gonads of crustaceans to induce gonadal maturation.To better understand the effects of 5-HT and its receptors on reproductive development in Artemia,a 5-HT type 7 receptor gene(5-HT_(7Ar))was identified in parthenogenetic Artemia and characterized.Sequence analysis revealed that the open reading frame of 5-HT_(7Ar) encodes a 414-aa protein.5-HT_(7Ar) showed higher expression in both brain and ovary at early embryo stage,5-HT_(7Ar) could be detected during ovarian development and the highest expression was observed at early embryo stage.Silencing of the 5-HT_(7Ar) in Artemia at early embryo stage decreased significantly the expression level of 5-HT_(7Ar) gene and protein at late oocyte,early embryo,and late embryo stage.Moreover,silencing of the 5-HT_(7Ar) resulted in a decreased fecundity,which corresponds to abnormal oocytes during the embryo development.Artemia tended to produce nauplii after the silencing of 5-HT_(7Ar),indicating that 5-HT_(7Ar) may also involve in the determination of its reproduction mode.The findings of this study provide an insight into the regulation of reproductive development in Artemia and the function of 5-HT_(7Ar).展开更多
基金funded by the Chinese Academy of Forestry-Special funds for basic scientific research service expenses of the central level public welfare research institutes(Grant No.CAFYBB2020QD001)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.32101550,32271917)+1 种基金Jiangsu Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Fund(Grant No.CX(24)3052)National Forestry and Grassland Administration’s Center for Science and Technology Development Projects(Grant No.KJZXSA202202).
文摘Catalpa bungei,a fast-growing timber tree,is threatened by the lepidopteran pest Omphisa plagialis.Previous studies in our laboratory successfully generated transgenic C.bungei lines overexpressing Cry genes(Cry1Ab,Cry2A,and Cry9-2)that exhibited resistance to O.plagialis,but their potential impact on soil bacterial communities remains unclear.In this study,we analyzed nine transgenic C.bungei lines(three independent lines for each Cry gene)to characterize their rhizosphere bacterial communities using high-throughput sequencing of the 16S ribosomal DNA(rDNA)V4-V5 regions.A total of 628 amplicon sequence variants(ASVs)were shared among all transgenic and wild-type(WT)lines,forming a stable core microbiome dominated by Proteobacteria,Bacteroidota,Acidobacteriota,and Actinobacteriota.Alpha diversity showed no significant differences,while beta diversity revealed minor but distinct compositional shifts.Cry1Ab lines exhibited higher abundances of fast-growing taxa,particularly Proteobacteria and Bacteroidota;Cry2A lines displayed intermediate profiles,whereas Cry9-2 lines were nearly indistinguishable from WT communities.Linear discriminant analysis of the effect size revealed significant enrichment of taxa such as Burkholderiaceae and Ralstonia in the Cry1Ab rhizosphere,in contrast to the higher abundance of Chloroflexi in the WT.Functional predictions indicated consistent metabolic pathways across all treatments,suggesting strong ecological redundancy.This study demonstrates minimal impact on rhizosphere microbial communities in transgenic C.bungei plants.The Cry9-2 construct exhibited superior environmental stability,whereas the Cry1Ab construct caused only slight but ecologically acceptable shifts.These findings support the ecological safety of Bt-transgenic C.bungei and identify Cry9-2 as a particularly favorable candidate for forestry applications.This comparative evaluation of three Cry genes in a tree species provides a framework for future gene-specific biosafety assessments in woody plants.
文摘DNA microarray technology is an extremely effective technique for studying gene expression patterns in cells, and the main challenge currently faced by this technology is how to analyze the large amount of gene expression data generated. To address this, this paper employs a mixed-effects model to analyze gene expression data. In terms of data selection, 1176 genes from the white mouse gene expression dataset under two experimental conditions were chosen, setting up two conditions: pneumococcal infection and no infection, and constructing a mixed-effects model. After preprocessing the gene chip information, the data were imported into the model, preliminary results were calculated, and permutation tests were performed to biologically validate the preliminary results using GSEA. The final dataset consists of 20 groups of gene expression data from pneumococcal infection, which categorizes functionally related genes based on the similarity of their expression profiles, facilitating the study of genes with unknown functions.
基金supported by the Key Research and Development Program of Shandong Province,China(No 2021CXGC010803)Pan’an County Chinese Medicine Industry Project(No.PZYF202103).
文摘Reductive soil disinfestation(RSD)is commonly employed for soil remediation in greenhouse cultivation.However,its influence on antibiotic resistance genes(ARGs)in soil remains uncertain.This study investigated the dynamic changes in soil communities,potential bacterial pathogens,and ARG profiles under various organicmaterial treatments during RSD,including distillers’grains,potato peel,peanut vine,and peanut vine combined with charcoal.Results revealed that applying diverse organic materials in RSD significantly altered bacterial community composition and diminished the relative abundance of potential bacterial pathogens(P<0.05).The relative abundance of high-risk ARGs decreased by 10.7%-30.6%after RSD treatments,the main decreased ARG subtypeswere AAC(3)_Via,dfrA1,ErmB,lnuB,aadA.Actinobacteria was the primary host of ARGs and was suppressed by RSD.Soil physicochemical properties,such as total nitrogen,soil pH,total carbon,were crucial factors affecting ARG profiles.Our findings demonstrated that RSD treatment inhibited pathogenic bacteria and could be an option for reducing high-risk ARG proliferation in soil.
基金Supported by Liyang People's Hospital Technology Project,No.2021YJKT0013。
文摘BACKGROUND The gastric microbiome is closely associated with gastric cancer,and single-region 16S rRNA sequencing has limitations in analyzing its characteristics,necessitating the search for a better sequencing method.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of multi-region 16S rRNA gene sequencing in studying the microbiome of gastric cancer tissues.METHODS Patients with gastric cancer(n=118)who underwent surgery at Liyang People's Hospital from January 2022 to December 2024 were enrolled.Fifty-nine paraffinembedded and 59 fresh tissue samples were obtained.The ZymoBIOMICSTM microbial community standard and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 were used as positive controls.Multi-region and single-region 16S rRNA gene sequencing were performed.Species identification,detection rates at varying microbial abundances,operational taxonomic unit(OTU)counts,and alpha diversity indices in gastric cancer tissues were compared between the two methods.RESULTS Multi-region 16S rRNA sequencing identified more species(eight species and eight genera)in the positive controls compared with single-region sequencing(one species and six genera).Detection rates at concentrations of 103,102,and 10 CFU/mg were significantly higher using multi-region sequencing(P<0.05).Multi-region sequencing also revealed significantly higher OTU counts and alpha diversity indices(Shannon,Simpson,and Chao1)in gastric cancer tissues(P<0.05).CONCLUSION Compared with single-region sequencing,multi-region 16S rRNA gene sequencing demonstrates superior species resolution and detection sensitivity,providing a more comprehensive profile of microbial diversity in gastric cancer tissues.
基金co-supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China。
文摘Effect web will be an important combat means to achieve accurate,efficient,agile and reliable destruction of enemy targets.The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles(UAV)cluster in warfare has become a key element in the battle for military superiority between nations.The construction of UAV cluster effect web is a kind of combinatorial optimization in essence.By selecting the optimal combination in the limited equipment concentration,the whole network can be optimized.Firstly,in order to improve the combinatorial optimization efficiency of UAV cluster effect web,NSGA-Ⅱbased on deep Q-network(DQN-based NSGA-Ⅱ)is proposed.This algorithm is used to solve the Multi-Objective Combinatorial Optimization(MOCO)problem in the construction of effect web.Secondly,a dynamic generation method is devised to solve the problem caused by the possible destruction of enemy and our node under the fierce confrontation between the two sides.Finally,the simulation results show that the DQN-based NSGA-Ⅱis better than the genetic algorithm with single operator.The comparison experiment shows that the weight of evaluation indexes will have a corresponding influence on the optimization results.
基金supported by the Research Fund of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory for Intelligent Micro-Nano Optoelectronic Technology(No.2020B1212030010)。
文摘This paper demonstrated the generation of multi-wavelength bound state noise-like pulse(BNLP)in a dispersion-managed composite-filtered fiber laser consisting of nonlinear polarization rotation(NPR)and loop.In the case of BNLP,the generation is caused by the interaction between two noise-like pulses(NLPs)induced by the comb-filtering effect,and bound state level can be artificially controlled in the researches.Our work provides a new method for generating low-coherence pulses and establishes a research idea for the study of the comb-filtering effects.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(Grant No.2022YFE0134200)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.12204214)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(Grant No.GK202207012)QCYRCXM-2022-241。
文摘Multi-electron and multi-orbital effects play a crucial role in the interaction of strong laser fields with complex molecules.Here,multi-electron effects encompass not only electron-electron Coulomb interactions and exchangecorrelation effects but also the interference between the dynamics of different electron wave packets.
基金supported by the Ministry of Health National Medical Research Council (to JL)the National University of Singapore (to JJEC)
文摘Schizophrenia is a complex psychiatric disorder marked by positive and negative symptoms,leading to mood disturbances,cognitive impairments,and social withdrawal.While anti-psychotic medications remain the cornerstone of treatment,they often fail to fully address certain symptoms.Additionally,treatment-resistant schizophrenia,affecting 30%-40%of patients,remains a substantial clinical challenge.Positive,negative symptoms and cognitive impairments have been linked to disruptions in the glutamatergic,serotonin,GABAergic,and muscarinic pathways in the brain.Recent advances using genome-wide association study and other approaches have uncovered a significant number of new schizophrenia risk genes that uncovered new,and reinforced prior,concepts on the genetic and neurological underpinnings of schizophrenia,including abnormalities in synaptic function,immune processes,and lipid metabolism.Concurrently,new therapeutics targeting different modalities,which are expected to address some of the limitations of anti-psychotic drugs currently being offered to patients,are currently being evaluated.Collectively,these efforts provide new momentum for the next phase of schizophrenia research and treatment.
基金supported by the Russian Science Foundation(No.22-16-00128),“Investigation of the Toxic Effect of Glyphosates on the Functional State of the Bird Intestinal Microbial Community,Their Growth and Development,and the Development of a Biological Product Based on the Glyphosate Degrading Strain”.
文摘Drugs and pesticide residues in broiler feed can compromise the therapeutic and production benefits of antibiotic(ANT)application and affect gene expression.In this study,we analyzed the expression of 13 key pancreatic genes and blood physiology parameters after administering one maximum residue limit of herbicide glyphosate(GLY),two ANTs,and one anticoccidial drug(AD).A total of 260 Ross 308 broilers aged 1-40 d were divided into the following four groups of 65 birds each:control group,which was fed the main diet(MD),and three experimental groups,which were fed MD supplemented with GLY,GLY+ANTs(enrofloxacin and colistin methanesulfonate),and GLY+AD(ammonium maduramicin),respectively.The results showed that the addition of GLY,GLY+ANTs,and GLY+AD caused significant changes in the expression of several genes of physiological and economic importance.In particular,genes related to inflammation and apoptosis(interleukin 6(IL6),prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2(PTGS2),and caspase 6(CASP6))were downregulated by up to 99.1%,and those related to antioxidant protection(catalase(CAT),superoxide dismutase 1(SOD1)and peroxiredoxin 6(PRDX6))by up to 98.6%,compared to controls.There was also a significant decline in the values of immunological characteristics in the blood serum observed in the experimental groups,and certain changes in gene expression were concordant with changes in the functioning of the pancreas and blood.The changes revealed in gene expression and blood indices in response to GLY,ANTs,and AD provide insights into the possible mechanisms of action of these agents at the molecular level.Specifically,these changes may be indicative of physiological mechanisms to overcome the negative effects of GLY,GLY+ANTs,and GLY+AD in broilers.
基金the National Social Science Foundation of China’s general project“Research on the Enhancement of the Elderly Care Support of Rural Families under the Changing Intergenerational Relations”(Project No.:21BRK028)in 2021.
文摘Based on two waves of CHARLS data,this paper uses descriptive statistics and a binary logistic regression estimation model to analyze the effect of age on the intergenerational economic support for the rural elderly within the framework of three-generation lineal group families.The study found that the diffusion effect of age on the intergenerational economic support for the rural elderly still existed when using a five-year age group model as the measure.In the distribution of intergenerational economic support for the rural elderly by age group,there was a notable decline in economic support from the filial generation for those aged 85 and above.For the age group of 85 and above,it was the grandchild generation that gradually increased its economic support,the result of a form of intergenerational relay for the care of the elderly.Comparison of the two waves of data reveals that familism still exhibits a strong resilience and is behind the intergenerational cooperation in Chinese rural families.The culture of filial piety and respect for elders,which reflects China’s national characteristics as well as contemporary values,should continue to be promoted.To achieve this,it is necessary to maintain the supportive function of family-based care for the rural elderly through family-friendly policies and the systematic improvement of the current multi-tiered policies for the care of the rural elderly.
基金National Key Research and Development Program of China(Nos.2024YFD2400300 and 2019YFD0901000)the Natural National Science Foundation of China(No.32373104).
文摘Gene expression and the content of hormones regulating feed intake and digestion are crucial for understanding gastric evacuation(GE)and feeding frequency in fish.This study assessed the effects of temperature and size on these parameters by examining the domestication of steelhead trout(Oncorhynchus mykiss)at four temperatures(8℃,12℃,16℃,and 20℃)and with two sizes(75.99 g±10.48 g and 140.21 g±22.08 g)over two weeks.The trout were fasted for 72 h before the GE trial to ensure complete gastric emptying.In each GE trial,the expressions of peptide tyrosine(PYY),cholecystokinin(CCK),and ghrelin genes,along with corresponding serum hormone levels,were measured before feeding and at 0 h and 24 h after feeding,in conjunction with feed intake and 24-h gastric content mass.Results revealed significant effects of temperature on the expression of the three gastric genes.CCK expression increased at 8℃,correlating with reduced feed intake,while PYY and CCK increased at 20℃,correlating with accelerated gastric evacuation.Size significantly influenced serum levels of all three hormones,but the interaction between temperature and size did not affect PYY and ghrelin expression or their serum contents.This study provides molecular insights into how temperature and size regulate the digestion of steelhead trout,offering a theoretical framework for optimizing feeding frequency in aquaculture practices.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.81872823,82073782,and 82241002)the Shanghai Science and Technology Committee(No.19430741500).
文摘Pulmonary artery remodeling is a critical pathological feature of pulmonary arterial hypertension(PAH),a fatal lung disease without cure,resulting in poor pulmonary hemodynamics and compliance.The remodeling could be aggravated by various factors,particularly by the hyperproliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells(PASMCs)and perivascular inflammation.Meanwhile,the hyperproliferation of PASMCs can be driven by the overexpression of miR138.In this study,we developed anti-inflammatory baicalein-assisted anti-miR138 gene therapy against PAH.The system was fabricated by anchoring the nucleic acid onto the nanocrystals through electrostatic interaction,followed by glucuronic acid(GA)coating for targeting the glucose transport-1(GLUT-1)receptor.The results demonstrated that the system had a 201-nm in diameter with a rod shape and allowed a 12-fold increase in pulmonary artery(PA)targeting versus free drug administration.The preparation injection reduced the PA thickness by 20%via effectively promoting PASMC apoptosis,likely by strengthening the pathway of Bcl-2 associated X protein/B-cell lymphoma-2/caspase 3(Bax/Bcl-2/Cas-3).The in vivo efficacy in the monocrotaline(MCT)-PAH model demonstrated significant improvement in the pulmonary hemodynamics,e.g.,a 50%decrease in mean pulmonary artery pressure(mPAP),61%increase in pulmonary artery acceleration time(PAAT),and 82%increase in cardiac output(CO).In conclusion,targeted codelivery of the inflammation inhibitor and anti-miR138 to PAs is promising to combat PAH.Rod-shaped nanomedicines represent an effective PA-targeting strategy.
基金supported by the National Key Plan for Research and Development of China(Nos.2022YFE0120300 and 2020YFC1806902)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.42161134002,81991535,and 41877058)the Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province,China(No.2022J01509).
文摘In recent years,the biodegradable plastics has extensively used in industry,agriculture,and daily life.Herein,the effects of two biodegradable microplastics(BMPs),poly(butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate)(PBAT)and polyhydroxyalkanoate(PHA),on soil sulfamethoxazole(SMX)degradation and sul genes development were comparatively studied based on the type,dosage,and state.The addition of virgin BMPs significantly increased soil DOC following a sequential order PBAT>PHA and high dose>low dose.Meanwhile virgin PBAT significantly reduced soil pH.In general,the addition of BMPs not only promoted soil SMX degradation but also increased the abundance of sul genes,with an exception that pH reduction in virgin PBAT inhibited the proliferation of sul genes.The driving effects of BMPs on soil microbial diversity following the same order as that on DOC.Specific bacteria stimulated by BMPs,such as Arthrobacter and two genera affiliated with phylum TM7,accounted for the accelerated degradation of SMX.Intriguingly,UV-aging hindered the release of DOC from BMPs and the reduction in pH,mitigated the stimulation of microbial communities,and ultimately reduced the promotion effect of BMPs on SMX degradation and sul genes proliferation.Our results suggest that more attention should be paid to the proliferation risk of ARGs in the environment affected by BMPs and UV-aging can be employed sometimes to reduce this risk.
基金Science and Technology Project of Aerospace Information Research Institute,Chinese Academy of Sciences(Y910340Z2F)Science and Technology Project of BBEF(E3E2010201)。
文摘Low-frequency signals have been proven valuable in the fields of target detection and geological exploration.Nevertheless,the practical implementation of these signals is hindered by large antenna diameters,limiting their potential applications.Therefore,it is imperative to study the creation of lowfrequency signals using antennas with suitable dimensions.In contrast to conventional mechanical antenna techniques,our study generates low-frequency signals in the spatial domain utilizing the principle of the Doppler effect.We also defines the antenna array architecture,the timing sequency,and the radiating element signal waveform,and provides experimental prototypes including 8/64 antennas based on earlier research.In the conducted experiments,121 MHz,40 MHz,and 10 kHz composite signals are generated by 156 MHz radiating element signals.The composite signal spectrum matches the simulations,proving our low-frequency signal generating method works.This holds significant implications for research on generating low-frequency signals with small-sized antennas.
文摘Quantitative real-time PCR(qPCR)is widely used for gene expression analysis,but its accuracy critically depends on stable internal reference genes for normalization.In marine invertebrates,especially non-model taxa such as cephalopods,systematic evaluation of reference genes is limited,leading to potential bias.The cuttlefish Sepiella japonica is ecologically and economically important in China,yet previous molecular studies have often relied on single unvalidated reference genes,which may compromise data reliability.This study aimed to systematically evaluate the stability of five commonly used reference genes(18S,ef-1α,ef-1γ,gapdh,andβ-actin)across multiple tissues and sexes of S.japonica,and to identify the most suitable reference genes and optimal number for qPCR normalization.Fifteen to sixteen tissue types were collected from ten healthy adults(five males and five females).Total RNA was extracted,reverse-transcribed,and analyzed by qPCR.Gene stability was assessed using four algorithms(geNorm,NormFinder,BestKeeper,andΔCt)integrated with RefFinder,and the optimal gene number was determined using geNorm pairwise variation(V_(n/n+1)<0.15).Four transcriptome-derived genes(creld2,cd109,acy1,and miox)were used for validation.The C_(t)values of the five genes ranged from 15.47 to 20.83.β-actin and gapdh showed pronounced variability in expression stability among tissues and sexes,indicating their limited suitability for normalization.18S exhibited the highest expression(mean C_(t):15.47-16.29)and lowest variability but displayed sex-biased expression,whereas ef-1αand ef-1γremained consistently stable across most tissues in both sexes,with ef-1αbeing the most robust and showing no sex-related bias.Although specific rankings varied among tissues and sexes,the comprehensive results indicated that ef-1αand ef-1γpossessed the highest overall stability,followed by 18S,whileβ-actin and gapdh were the least stable.The final comprehensive rankings were ef-1γ>ef-1α>18S>gapdh>β-actin(male)and ef-1α>ef-1γ>18S>gapdh>β-actin(female).geNorm analysis(V2/3<0.15)indicated that two genes,mainly ef-1αand ef-1γ,were generally sufficient for reliable normalization in most tissues.Validation confirmed that normalization using the stable ef-1αand ef-1γaccurately reflected the expression differences among tissues,whereasβ-actin and gapdh can bias or confound statistical analyses.ef-1αand ef-1γare identified as the most reliable reference gene combination for qPCR analysis in S.japonica,while 18S can serve as an auxiliary gene for within-sex comparisons.The use ofβ-actin or gapdh alone is not recommended.This study establishes a systematic framework for selecting reliable reference genes in S.japonica,thereby facilitating robust qPCR normalization and providing a foundation for future gene expression research in S.japonica and other cephalopods.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32071528)。
文摘Environmental fluctuations are a pervasive natural phenomenon that typically favor diverse maternal investment strategies.Organisms across various evolutionary lineages have acquired the ability to enter the dormancy state to tolerate conditions that are unsuitable for normal life activities.In cyclical parthenogenesis,sexual reproduction is generally linked with dormancy,thereby enhancing the long-term fitness of populations through positive feedback mechanisms.This study evaluates the impact of environmental variability on offspring population dynamics through sexual reproduction in the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus.We found that mictic females(sexual females)exposed to low-predictability environments produced resting eggs with a sporadic hatching pattern,reduced hatching rate,and smaller sizes of resting egg,embryo,and stem females,while increasing variations in fertilization among individuals to maximize population fitness.Variations in population growth could be manifested in enhanced reproductive capacity 2–3 d post-hatching,along with differences in fecundity among individuals.This suggests that dormant eggs from unstable environments may prioritize offspring survival and adjust to increased fertilization among individuals.This adaptive strategy enables rotifer populations to rapidly adjust to environmental changes,thus avoiding extinction and thriving in diverse habitats.Our systematic study enhances the understanding of how environmental stability affects long-term population fitness in cyclical parthenogens.
基金supported by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of the People's Republic of China(125A0607)Department of Science and Technology of Yunnan Province(XDYC-KJLJ-2022-0004)。
文摘Flight feathers represent a hallmark innovation of avian evolution.Recent comparative genomic analyses identified a 284 bp avian-specific highly conserved element(ASHCE)located within the eighth intron of the SIM bHLH transcription factor 1(Sim1)gene,postulated to act as a cis-regulatory element governing flight feather morphogenesis.To investigate its functional significance,genome-edited(GE)primordial germ cell(PGC)lines carrying targeted ASHCE deletions were generated using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing,with germline chimeric males subsequently mated with wild-type(WT)hens to obtain GE progeny.The resulting GE chickens harbored 257-260 bp deletions,excising approximately half of the Sim1-ASHCE sequence.Reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction(RT-qPCR)analysis showed an average 0.32-fold reduction in Sim1 expression in the forelimbs of GE embryos at day 8(E8)compared to WT counterparts.Despite this,GE chickens developed structurally normal flight and tail feathers.In situ hybridization localized Sim1 expression to the posterior mesenchyme surrounding flight feather buds in E8 WT embryos,but not within the buds themselves.These results suggest that partial deletion of Sim1-ASHCE,despite diminishing Sim1 expression,does not disrupt flight feather formation.The excised region appears to possess enhancer activity toward Sim1 but is dispensable for flight feather development.Complete ablation of the ASHCE will be necessary to fully resolve the regulatory role of Sim1 in avian feather morphogenesis.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC)(Grant No.72171095)the National Social Science Foundation of China(Grant No.22VRC153)the Wuhan Textile University Fund(Grant Nos.2024289 and 2024380)。
文摘Although generative conversational artificial intelligence(AI)can answer questions well and hold conversations as a person,the semantic ambiguity inherent in text-based communication poses challenges to effective use.Effective use reflects the users’utilization of generative conversational AI to achieve their goals,which has not been previously studied.Drawing on the media naturalness theory,we examined how generative conversational AI’s content and style naturalness affect effective use.A two-wave survey was conducted to collect data from 565 users of generative conversational AI.Two techniques were used in this study.Initially,partial least squares structural equation modeling(PLS-SEM)was applied to determine the variables that significantly affected the mechanisms(i.e.,cognitive effort and communication ambiguity)and effective use.Secondly,an artificial neural network model was used to evaluate the relative importance of the significant predictors of mechanisms and effective use identified from the PLS-SEM analysis.The results revealed that the naturalness of content and style differed in their effects on cognitive effort and communication ambiguity.Additionally,cognitive effort and communication ambiguity negatively affected effective use.This study advances the literature on effective use by uncovering the psychological mechanisms underlying effective use and their antecedents.In addition,this study offers insights into the design of generative conversational AI.
基金Supported by Ningxia Key Research and Development Program,No.2023BEG02015Talent Development Projects of Young Qihuang of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine(2020).
文摘BACKGROUND Lotus plumule and its active components have demonstrated inhibitory effects on gastric cancer(GC).However,the molecular mechanism of lotus plumule against GC remains unclear and requires further investigation.AIM To identify the key hub genes associated with the anti-GC effects of lotus plumule.METHODS This study investigated the potential targets of traditional Chinese medicine for inhibiting GC using weighted gene co-expression network analysis and bio-informatics.Initially,the active components and targets of the lotus plumule and the differentially expressed genes associated with GC were identified.Sub-sequently,a protein-protein interaction network was constructed to elucidate the interactions between drug targets and disease-related genes,facilitating the identification of hub genes within the network.The clinical significance of these hub genes was evaluated,and their upstream transcription factors and down-stream targets were identified.The binding ability of a hub gene with its down-stream targets was verified using molecular docking technology.Finally,molecular docking was performed to evaluate the binding affinity between the active ingredients of lotus plumule and the hub gene.RESULTS This study identified 26 genes closely associated with GC.Machine learning analysis and external validation narrowed the list to four genes:Aldo-keto reductase family 1 member B10,fructose-bisphosphatase 1,protein arginine methyltransferase 1,and carbonic anhydrase 9.These genes indicated a strong correlation with anti-GC activity.CONCLUSION Lotus plumule exhibits anti-GC effects.This study identified four hub genes with potential as novel targets for diagnosing and treating GC,providing innovative perspectives for its clinical management.
基金Supported by the Tianjin Key Laboratory of Marine Resources and Chemistry(Tianjin University of Science&Technology),Tianjin,China(No.202302)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32460154)the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(No.2023MD734227)。
文摘5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT)is a biological monoamine neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and gonads of crustaceans to induce gonadal maturation.To better understand the effects of 5-HT and its receptors on reproductive development in Artemia,a 5-HT type 7 receptor gene(5-HT_(7Ar))was identified in parthenogenetic Artemia and characterized.Sequence analysis revealed that the open reading frame of 5-HT_(7Ar) encodes a 414-aa protein.5-HT_(7Ar) showed higher expression in both brain and ovary at early embryo stage,5-HT_(7Ar) could be detected during ovarian development and the highest expression was observed at early embryo stage.Silencing of the 5-HT_(7Ar) in Artemia at early embryo stage decreased significantly the expression level of 5-HT_(7Ar) gene and protein at late oocyte,early embryo,and late embryo stage.Moreover,silencing of the 5-HT_(7Ar) resulted in a decreased fecundity,which corresponds to abnormal oocytes during the embryo development.Artemia tended to produce nauplii after the silencing of 5-HT_(7Ar),indicating that 5-HT_(7Ar) may also involve in the determination of its reproduction mode.The findings of this study provide an insight into the regulation of reproductive development in Artemia and the function of 5-HT_(7Ar).
