Highest Induction Rate Research Articles

Callus induction, subculture, and browning inhibition of the anticancer plant Taxus media

In order to obtain more effective cell culture parameters of Taxus anticancer plants, we optimized the callus induction and subculture conditions of the explants (stem segments with buds) of the anticancer medicinal plant Taxus media by using the plant tissue culture technology and orthogonal test. Furthermore, we studied the method to inhibit browning in the culture. The results indicated that the optimal conditions for inducing callus was culture in the medium composed of B5+0.25 mg/L 2, 4-D+1.5 mg/L NAA+0.5 mg/L KT in the dark, which showed short induction time and a high induction rate (86.7%). The formula of the optimal medium for subculture was B5+0.5 mg/L 2, 4-D+2.0 mg/L NAA+1.5 mg/L KT.The proliferation multiple of callus cultured by subculture on the 10th day of callus growth was the highest. Activated carbon inhibited the browning in callus subculture, with the optimal inhibitory concentration of 0.8 g/L. The results of this study lay a foundation for the production of taxol by suspension culture of T. media cells.

In vivo tetraploid induction of mono-embryonic citrus genotypes by colchicine treatment

Polyploid holds great significance in citrus breeding, to produce dwarf tetraploid rootstocks with wide adaptability and triploid scion varieties bearing seedless fruits. In citrus, tetraploids have been generated through somatic hybridization and autonomous chromosome doubling of nucellar embryos. However, most tetraploids were recovered from poly-embryonic (apomictic) citrus, while tetraploids of mono-embryonic (non-apomictic) citrus were seldomly reported. Herein, we developed an in vivo tetraploid induction method by colchicine treatment, which is especially high-efficient in mono-embryonic citrus. The epicotyl of citrus seedling was decapitated and incubated in dark for different time durations (0–15 d) to induce callus formation on the epicotyl wound. The callus on wound was then immersed in different concentrations (0.0125 %-0.100 %) of colchicine for 2 h, enabling regeneration of tetraploid shoots. We achieved high tetraploid induction rate (20.69 %) but low mixoploid induction rate (1.72 %), when 0.025 % colchicine was applied on wound cultured in dark for 9 d By using this method, 147 tetraploids were recovered from mono-embryonic mandarin, tangerine, sweet orange, pummelo and citron. Our method exhibited high tetraploid induction efficiency (14.28 %-20.69 %), low rate of mixoploid (1.72 %-5.30 %), short recovery period (45 d), and no need of tissue culture. The majority (75 %-100 %) of the recovered tetraploids maintained stable ploidy during subsequent growth, and the mono-embryonic nature of the tetraploids was identified by InDel marker analysis. The mono-embryonic tetraploids obtained herein enriched polyploid germplasm pool for citrus breeding.

Induction and Suspension Culture of Panax japonicus Callus Tissue for the Production of Secondary Metabolic Active Substances.

Using Panax japonicus as research material, callus induction and culture were carried out, and high-yielding cell lines were screened to establish a suspension culture system that promotes callus growth and the accumulation of the "total saponins" (total content of triterpenoid glycosides or ginsenosides). Using the root as an explant, the medium for callus induction and proliferation was optimized by adjusting culture conditions (initial inoculation amount, carbon source, shaking speed, hormone concentration, culture time) and a high-yielding cell line with efficient proliferation and high total saponins content was screened out. The conditions of suspension culture were refined to find out the most suitable conditions for the suspension culture of callus, and finally, the suspension culture system was established. We found that the lowest (5%) contamination rate was achieved by disinfecting the fresh roots with 75% alcohol for 60 s, followed by soaking in 10% NaClO for 15 min. The highest induction rate (88.17%) of callus was obtained using the medium MS + 16.11 μmol·L-1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L-1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L-1 sucrose + 7.5 g·L-1 agar. The callus was loose when the callus subcultured on the proliferation medium (MS + 5.37 μmol·L-1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L-1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L-1 sucrose + 3.8 g·L-1 gellan gum) for 21 days. The callus growth was cultured in a liquid growth medium (MS + 5.37 μmol·L-1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L-1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L-1 sucrose) with an initial inoculation amount of 40 g·L-1, a shaking speed of 110 r/min and darkness. Cell growth was fastest with a culture period of 21 days. We replaced the growth medium with the production medium (MS + 5.37 μmol·L-1 NAA + 13.32 μmol·L-1 6-BA + 30.0 g·L-1 glucose) for maximum accumulation of total saponins. [Conclusion] A callus induction and suspension culture system for the root of P. japonicus was established. In this way, we can promote the accumulation of total saponins in callus cells and provide a basis for large-scale cell culture and industrial production of medicinal total saponins.

In vitro propagation of triploid Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F. A. Barkl

AbstractTriploid lacquer trees have a higher yield of raw lacquer and greater stress resistance; however, it is challenging to develop efficient and rapid seedling culture techniques because of the influence of metabolites with raw lacquer. In this study, the stem segments of a triploid lacquer tree were used to investigate the effects of explant sterilization treatment, different combinations of exogenous hormone concentrations on the induction of axillary buds, seedling development, and rooting, as well as transplanting substrate ratios. The results showed that the optimal combination of disinfection treatment for triploid Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F. A. Barkl explants involves 75% alcohol immersion for 10 s, followed by 2.0% benzalkonium chloride treatment for 1 min and 0.1% HgCl2 treatment for 4 min. The suitable medium for axillary bud induction was Murashige and Skoog (MS) containing 0.1 mg•L−1 zeatin (ZT) and 0.1 mg•L−1 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA), resulting in a high induction rate of 95.0%. Use of 1/2 MS supplemented with 0.5 mg•L−1 6-BA and 0.3 mg•L−1 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) was the most effective for axillary bud proliferation. The combination of 1/2 MS containing 0.1 mg•L−1 6-BA, 0.5 mg•L−1 2,4-D, 0.5 mg•L−1 indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), and 0.2% activated carbon (AC) was an optimum for hardening-off. With woody plant medium (WPM) supplemented with 0.5 mg•L−1 naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 0.5 mg•L−1 2,4-D and 0.5 g•L−1 AC as a rooting medium, the rooting rate was 67.8%. Also, the appropriate transplanting substrate ratio for triploid Toxicodendron vernicifluum (Stokes) F. A. Barkl was grass charcoal:laterite:humus = 1:1:1. Collectively, the results provided the technical assurance for seedling scale multiplication and propagation, facilitating its application in production.

A phase 3, randomized, double-blind, multicenter, placebo-controlled study of S-588410, a five-peptide cancer vaccine as an adjuvant therapy after curative resection in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

S-588410, a cancer peptide vaccine (CPV), comprises five HLA-A*24:02-restricted peptides from five cancer-testis antigens. In a phase 2 study, S-588410 was well-tolerated and exhibited antitumor efficacy in patients with urothelial cancer. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy, immune response, and safety of S-588410 in patients with completely resected esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). This phase 3 study involved patients with HLA-A*24:02-positive and lymph node metastasis-positive ESCC who received neoadjuvant therapy followed by curative resection. After randomization, patients were administered S-588410 and placebo (both emulsified with Montanide™ ISA 51VG) subcutaneously. The primary endpoint was relapse-free survival (RFS). The secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) induction, and safety. Statistical significance was tested using the one-sided weighted log-rank test with the Fleming-Harrington class of weights. A total of 276 patients were randomized (N = 138/group). The median RFS was 84.3 and 84.1weeks in the S-588410 and placebo groups, respectively (P = 0.8156), whereas the median OS was 236.3weeks and not reached, respectively (P = 0.6533). CTL induction was observed in 132/134 (98.5%) patients who received S-588410 within 12weeks. Injection site reactions (137/140 patients [97.9%]) were the most frequent treatment-emergent adverse events in the S-588410 group. Prolonged survival was observed in S-588410-treated patients with upper thoracic ESCC, grade 3 injection-site reactions, or high CTL intensity. S-588410 induced immune response and had acceptable safety but failed to reach the primary endpoint. A high CTL induction rate and intensity may be critical for prolonging survival during future CPV development.

Growth physiology and chlorophyll fluorescence analysis of two moss species under different LED light qualities

This study investigated the responses of Didymodon constrictus and Hypnum plumaeforme to different light qualities emitted by light-emitting diodes (LEDs), including white light (WL), red light (RL), blue light (BL), yellow light (YL), green light (GL), and a combination of red and blue light (R1B1L). The research analyzed the fluorescence imaging, photosynthetic pigments, coloration, and growth characteristics related to antioxidant enzymes in these two moss species. The results indicated that R1B1L significantly enhanced the content of photosynthetic pigments, maximum relative electron transport rate (rETRmax), saturation light intensity (IK), and the greenness of the moss. RL improved the maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm), the light energy efficiency of H. plumaeforme and effective quantum yield in both moss species. In contrast, BL notably increased non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), photochemical quenching (qp), and the steady-state fluorescence decrease ratio (RFD) in H. plumaeforme. The application of GL significantly increases the maximum photon yield (Fv/Fm) in D. constrictus, as well as the light energy efficiency and elongation length, resulting in a shift in the color composition of both moss species towards yellow. Among the light treatments, R1B1L had the highest induction rate and promotional effect on the growth of both moss species. These mosses absorbed GL and RL effectively, while BL played a crucial role in the dissipation of heat and electron transfer in H. plumaeforme. This research provides valuable insights for the regulation of LED light environments and the physiological adaptability of moss in artificial cultivation.

Advancing Hemidesmus indicus propagation and conservation: Somatic embryogenesis, histology, metabolite assessment and genetic stability

Hemidesmus indicus L. R. Br. is a commonly traded ethnomedicinal plant, and a method has been developed to produce somatic embryos (SEs) from calli grown from the leaves of the plant. With a maximum callus induction frequency of 91.66 %, pink-red friable proembryogenic calli were generated on Murashige and Skoog (MS) and 5.0 µM 2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2, 4-D) from the leaf explant (LE). With the aim of achieving a high success rate of 95.00 % for the induction of SEs, with a yield of 91.33 SEs per 100 mg of callus, the proembryogenic calli were transferred to fresh culture medium containing MS and 5.0 µM 6-benzylaminopurine (BA). This induction medium allowed the embryos to develop to the torpedo stage, but their further growth into emblings required a different culture medium. ½ MS with 5.0 µM BA and 1.0 µM gibberellic acid (GA3) resulted in 99.16 % maturation and 39.66 emblings regeneration out of 40 immature embryoids, respectively. With a maximum survival rate of 91.67 %, healthy emblings were successfully acclimatized using Soilrite. DNA-based molecular markers (RAPD and ISSR) were used to confirm the genetic similarities of the in vitro grown plants. Histological examinations were performed to determine the ontogeny, morphology, and development of somatic embryoids. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GCMS–) were performed for both the mother and the in vitro generated plant to analyse the root for secondary metabolites. In the physiological and biochemical studies, enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), and glutathione reductase (GR) were found to increase in vitro derived H. indicus plants during different acclimatization periods (0, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days). With increasing acclimatization time, net photosynthetic rate (PN) and total chlorophyll show a decrease at first, then an increase. The protocol provides high callus induction rates, efficient somatic embryogenesis, successful maturation and regeneration, robust acclimatization, genetic fidelity, detailed insight into development, and screening of secondary metabolites.

Optimizing callus induction and indirect organogenesis in non-dormant corm explants of Gloriosa superba (L.) via media priming

IntroductionGloriosa superba L. is an endangered ornamental plant of significant medicinal, commercial, and cultural value. This study establishes an efficient protocol for rapid in vitro propagation of this plant species through callus-mediated organogenesis using non-dormant corm explants.MethodsPlant tissue culture techniques were employed to facilitate the in vitro regeneration process of Gloriosa superba L. This encompassed various stages, including the acquisition of plant material, surface sterilization, formulation of growth media, and the execution of callogenesis, shooting, rooting, and acclimatization experiments.Results and DiscussionInvestigation into the impact of plant growth regulators on callogenesis unveiled diverse callus morphologies, dependent on regulator type and concentration, with the NAA and KN combination emerging as the most effective for callus induction. Specifically, the callus induction medium supplemented with 1.5 mg L−1 NAA, 0.5 mg L−1 KN, and 10 mg L−1 casein hydrolysate (CH) achieved remarkable results, boasting an 81.25% callus induction rate and a substantial callus biomass fresh weight of 333 mg. Furthermore, the combination of BAP and NAA facilitated optimal shoot primordia induction and shooting in callus derived from non-dormant corm explants. The shoot induction medium, enriched with 2.0 mg L−1 BAP, 0.5 mg L−1 NAA, 5 mg L−1 CH, and 20% (v/v) coconut water (CW), resulted in an impressive 83.33% shoot primordia formation rate and an average of 6.86 shoot primordia per callus. For root induction, the medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L−1 IBA displayed a high root induction rate of 81.25% and robust rooting (+++). Successful acclimatization of in vitro plantlets in controlled environments and shade net houses culminated in thriving growth, and upon transplantation into a garden soil blend (garden soil : sand : vermiculite, 2:1:1, v/v), with direct sunlight exposure, the plantlets demonstrated commendable development and form, boasting a 69% survival rate at the seven-week mark. These findings offer a robust foundation for scalable and sustainable propagation strategies, ensuring the conservation and utilization of this valuable species.

Bio‐Functional Hydrogel Microspheres for Musculoskeletal Regeneration

AbstractThe worldwide prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders is expected to rise due to an accelerating aging population and increasing associated factors. Despite the high rate of disability induction, clinical options for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders remain limited. Hydrogel microspheres (HMSs), which are colloidal particles with crosslinked polymer networks at the nanometer scale, are characterized by excellent biocompatibility, easy‐to‐tune structures (e.g., stiffness, porosity, and composition), and high encapsulation efficiency of therapeutic agents (e.g., drugs and cells). At present, multiple techniques are utilized for the fabrication of HMSs and encapsulation of therapeutic agents. The HMSs can be produced and used in different states to match specific utilizations. These desirable properties, along with their injectability, bestow HMSs with mutifunctionalities that can be utilized for a variety of biomedical applications (e.g., delivery of biologics, tissue regeneration, and bio‐lubrication), and thus enable them to be promising tools for tackling a variety of clinical diseases. Herein, the focus is the fabrication and application of therapeutic HMSs for i) bone disorders, ii) cartilage and osteochondral disorders, iii) intervertebral disc (IVD) disorders, and iv) neurovascular disorders, with the aim of overviewing the recent progress to summarize key contributions and findings and highlight the limitations and opportunities in this field.

Whole-transcriptome sequence analysis of pumpkin ovules in response to heat shock during unfertilized ovary culture

Unfertilized ovary culture is one of the most effective approaches to induce haploids in Cucurbitaceae. Previous studies have greatly contributed to inducing more and better haploids, but there has been less contribution to the mechanism involved. Our previous research established efficient haploid regeneration protocol of unfertilized ovary culture and found that heat shock can effectively promote ELSs’ induction. In this study, firstly, we accurately calculated the contribution of heat shock to ELSs’ induction via unfertilized ovary culture of pumpkin, and then performed whole-transcriptome sequence using “Yi-Chuan-Ling 4″, which is more sensitive to heat shock and has a higher induction rate. The results show that heat shock treatment was obviously beneficial to the unfertilized ovary culture of pumpkin, and the average induction rate in the treatment group (35°C,5d) was 26.6 times higher than in the control group (25°C,5d) . Through whole-transcriptome sequencing, we obtained 4579 differentially expressed (DE) RNAs, including 3133 mRNAs, 120 lncRNAs, 814 circRNAs, and 512 miRNAs. GO annotation analysis showed that DEmRNAs were associated with cellular processes, metabolic processes, biological regulation, response to stimulus, and so on. The ceRNA network was constructed using differential expressed RNAs. It captured the gene MSTRG.28850.1, which was related to embryogenesis and regulated by miRNA Nov-m0336–5 p. In conclusion, these findings might provide an important reference for mechanism research regarding embryogenesis induction and accelerate the application of unfertilized ovary/ovule culture in Cucurbita breeding.

Elite, transformable haploid inducers in maize

The introduction of alleles into commercial crop breeding pipelines is both time consuming and costly. Two technologies that are disrupting traditional breeding processes are doubled haploid (DH) breeding and genome editing (GE). Recently, these techniques were combined into a GE trait delivery system called HI-Edit (Haploid Inducer-Edit) [1]. In HI-Edit, the pollen of a haploid inducer line is reprogrammed to deliver GE traits to any variety, obviating recurrent selection. For HI-Edit to operate at scale, an efficient transformable HI line is needed, but most maize varieties are recalcitrant to transformation, and haploid inducers are especially difficult to transform given their aberrant reproductive behaviors. Leveraging marker assisted selection and a three-tiered testing scheme, we report the development of new Iodent and Stiff Stalk maize germplasm that are transformable, have high haploid induction rates, and exhibit a robust, genetically-dominant anthocyanin native trait that may be used for rapid haploid identification. We show that transformation of these elite “HI-Edit” lines is enhanced using the BABYBOOM and WUSCHEL morphogenetic factors. Finally, we evaluate the HI-Edit performance of one of the lines against both Stiff Stalk and non-Stiff Stalk testers. The strategy and results of this study should facilitate the development of commercially scalable HI-Edit systems in diverse crops.

An enhanced model for environmental dry eye: Exploring pathological features and underlying factors

This study aimed to develop an enhanced environmental dry eye (EDE) model that accurately reproduces the etiology of prolonged visual fatigue and investigates the underlying pathological features. A total of 40 adult SPF-grade Wistar rats were randomly assigned to control (n = 20) and model (n = 20) groups. Rats in the control group were maintained under normal conditions, while rats in the model group were exposed to a controlled frontal airflow of 2–4 m/s from a fan for 7.5 h daily while placed on a suspended cylindrical wire mesh frame. Various assessments were performed at different time points during the 14-day experiment, including blink frequency, tear secretion (phenol red thread test), tear film breakup time (BUT), fluorescein staining (FL), corneal epithelial status (light microscopy), ultrastructure of corneal epithelial cells (electron microscopy), and expression levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) in tears (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Additionally, mRNA and protein expression levels of MMP-9, IL1β, IL6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and caspase-3 in corneal tissues were quantified (real-time quantitative PCR and Western blotting). Compared to the control group, the model group rats exhibited significant decreases in blink frequency (P < 0.001), tear secretion (Schirmer I test) values (P < 0.001), and tear film breakup time levels (P < 0.001). There was also a significant increase in fluorescein staining scores (P < 0.001) in the model group. Histological examination revealed distinct differences of the corneal epithelium between groups. The corneal epithelium of the model group appeared thicker, with disorganized cell arrangement in the superficial and basal layers, partial defects or detachment of superficial epithelial cells, and a rough, uneven surface. Scanning electron microscopy observations showed a rough corneal epithelial surface with numerous cracks and scattered vesicular-like structures in the model group. Furthermore, the model group rats exhibited a significant increase in expression of IL-1β and TNF-α in tears (P < 0.001), and upregulated expression levels of MMP-9, TNF-α, IL-1β, caspase-3, IL-6, and IFN-γ at both the mRNA and protein levels in corneal tissues (P < 0.001). In conclusion, the modified “wire-meshing cylindrical board” model effectively overcomes the limitations of the traditional “jogging board " dry eye model and successfully simulates the etiology of prolonged visual fatigue. This innovative EDE model demonstrates a high degree of relevance to dry eye conditions resulting from prolonged visual tasks, with a high success rate of model induction. Moreover, it proves to be a simple, practical, and easily replicable model, making it highly suitable for further studies on prolonged visual fatigue and facilitating its widespread adoption in research and clinical applications.

Polyploidization and genomic selection integration for grapevine breeding: a perspective.

Grapevines are economically important woody perennial crops widely cultivated for their fruits that are used for making wine, grape juice, raisins, and table grapes. However, grapevine production is constantly facing challenges due to climate change and the prevalence of pests and diseases, causing yield reduction, lower fruit quality, and financial losses. To ease the burden, continuous crop improvement to develop superior grape genotypes with desirable traits is imperative. Polyploidization has emerged as a promising tool to generate genotypes with novel genetic combinations that can confer desirable traits such as enhanced organ size, improved fruit quality, and increased resistance to both biotic and abiotic stresses. While previous studies have shown high polyploid induction rates in Vitis spp., rigorous screening of genotypes among the produced polyploids to identify those exhibiting desired traits remains a major bottleneck. In this perspective, we propose the integration of the genomic selection approach with omics data to predict genotypes with desirable traits among the vast unique individuals generated through polyploidization. This integrated approach can be a powerful tool for accelerating the breeding of grapevines to develop novel and improved grapevine varieties.

Evaluating Tartary Buckwheat Genotypes with High Callus Induction Rates and the Transcriptomic Profiling during Callus Formation.

Due to their complex genotypes, low in vitro regeneration rates, and difficulty in obtaining transgenic plants, studies concerning basic biological research and molecular breeding in Tartary buckwheat (TB) are greatly limited. In this study, the hypocotyls of 60 genotypes of TB (TBC1~60) were used as explants. Of these, TBC14 was selected due to a high callus induction rate of 97.78% under dark and a proliferation coefficient (PC) of 28.2 when cultured on MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/L of 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/L of 6-BA. Subsequently, the samples of the calli obtained from TBC14 were collected at 0, 10, 20, and 30 d, and their transcriptomes were sequenced where identified. GO enrichment led to the detection of the most significant active gene set, which was the DNA binding transcription factor activity. The DEGs related to the pathways concerning metabolism, the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and hormone signal transduction were the most enriched in the KEGG database. The sets of MYB, AP2/ERF, and bHLH TFs exhibited the highest number of DEGs. Using this enrichment analysis, 421 genes encoding TFs, 47 auxin- and cytokinin-related genes, and 6 signal transduction-associated genes were screened that may play significant roles in callus formation (CF) in TB. Furthermore, FtPinG0008123200.01 (bZIP), a key gene promoting CF, was screened in terms of the weighted gene co-expression network associated with the various stages of CF. Our study not only provides valuable information about the molecular mechanism of CF but also reveals new genes involved in this process.

Safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with moderately hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiotherapy for resectable pancreatic cancer: A prospective, open-label, phase II study.

Resectable pancreatic cancer (RPC) is potentially resectable on admission, and the impact of neoadjuvant therapy on these tumors is controversial. Moreover, the safety and efficacy of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with moderately hypofractionated intensity-modulated radiation therapy (NACIMRT) for RPC have not been studied. Here, we conducted a phase II study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of hypofractionated NACIMRT for RPC. A total of 54 RPC patients were enrolled and treated according to the study protocol. We used moderately hypofractionated (45 Gy in 15 fractions) IMRT with gemcitabine to shorten the duration of radiotherapy and reduce gastrointestinal toxicity. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and we subsequently analyzed the microscopically margin-negative resection (R0) rate, disease-free survival (DFS), and histologic effects and safety of NACIMRT. Median OS for the cohort was 40.0 months. Forty-two patients (77.8%) underwent pancreatectomy after NACIMRT. Median DFS was 20.3 months. The R0 resection rate was 95.2% (40/42) per protocol and 85.2% (46/54) for the cohort. There were no intervention-related deaths during the study period. Local treatment response, as assessed by the CAP classification, showed no residual tumor in 4.8% of patients. Overall, 23.9% of patients experienced CTCAE grade 3 or 4 during NACIMRT. Adjuvant therapy was initiated in 88% of patients undergoing resection. Postoperative complications grade ≥3b on the Clavien-Dindo scale occurred in 4.8% of patients. CA19-9 level at enrollment was an independent prognostic factor for OS and DFS. This is the first prospective study of hypofractionated IMRT as neoadjuvant therapy for RPC. Hypofractionated NACIMRT for RPC could be safely introduced with a high induction rate of adjuvant chemotherapy, with an overall survival of 40.0 months.

Simulated effects of imperfect sterile sport fish stocking on persistence of fertile fish in new exploited populations

AbstractObjectiveSterile fish are used for multiple purposes, including enhancing sport fisheries where reproduction is not wanted. In some regions with few native sport fish, but strong angler desire for nonnative piscivorous species, establishing new fisheries using sterile predators is being explored as a management option. In this context, objective information is needed to guide discussions with stakeholders and inform policy.MethodsArtificial induction of triploidy is commonly used to produce sterile predators, but the process is rarely 100% effective. Thus, starting a new triploid fishery would require stocking fish with imperfect induction, which carries the risk of jump‐starting a feral population if stocked diploids survive to maturity and become self‐sustaining. We developed a joint stochastic age‐structured model to explore the potential consequences of stocking triploid Walleye Sander vitreus with imperfect induction into locations devoid of diploids to inform stocking decisions.ResultModel simulations demonstrated that a high induction rate (≥95%) for triploid fingerling stocking combined with multiple simultaneous constraints on natural reproduction were required to minimize the probability of diploid Walleye persistence or to maintain the abundance of natural‐origin fish near or below expectations from stocking alone. Reproductive interference from triploid males could suppress the population expansion of diploids under some circumstances. Above patterns were also contingent on maintaining a relatively high annual mortality rate (&gt;50%)—reflective of exploited populations—on age‐classes of Walleye particularly vulnerable to catch and harvest.ConclusionOur modeling framework provides decision makers objective information to weigh stocking options and guide discussions. A better understanding of the recruitment and exploitation dynamics of nonnative Walleye populations and the poststocking performance and behavior of triploid Walleye would help refine models and expectations.

Protocol optimization and assessment of genotypic response for inbred line development through doubled haploid production in maize

BackgroundDoubled haploid technology offers the fastest route of inbred line development by rapidly fixing the desirable combinations in a single year. However, the differential response of haploid induction to genetic background of maternal lines accompanied with low induction rate and high mortality rate due to artificial chromosomal doubling of haploid seedlings creates hindrance in doubled haploid production on a commercial scale under tropical conditions. To speed up the hybrid breeding programme in sub-tropical maize, efforts are reported here to optimize the protocol for efficient production of fixed lines using haploid inducers. The second-generation haploid inducers i.e. CIM2GTAILs obtained from CIMMYT, Mexico were used for haploid induction in 13 F1s of diverse backgrounds. For standardization of chromosomal doubling protocol, various concentrations of colchicine and two seedling growth stages were used to determine the extent of chromosomal doubling and survival rate of doubled haploid plants.ResultsA high mean haploid induction rate is obtained from CIM2GTAIL P2 (10%) as compared to CIM2GTAIL P1 (7.46%). Out of four treatments, CIMMYT reported protocol of chromosome doubling in tropical maize comprising combination of 0.07% colchicine and 0.1% DMSO at V2 stage is highly effective for acquiring doubled haploid plants in sub-tropical adapted maize with high survival rate of 52.7%. However, increasing the colchicine concentration from 0.07 to 0.1% led to high mortality rate.ConclusionAccording to the findings, the haploid induction rate, survival rate and overall success rate varied depending upon the genotype of the inducer and the source population along with the concentrations of chemical used. The optimized protocol developed using CIMMYT haploid inducer CIM2GTAIL P2 for efficient doubled haploid production will not only fasten the breeding programme but will also reduce the production cost of doubled haploid with great efficiency in sub-tropical maize.

Identification of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lactucae Race 1 as the Causal Agent of Lettuce Fusarium Wilt in Greece, Commercial Cultivars' Susceptibility, and Temporal Expression of Defense-Related Genes.

Fusarium wilt of lettuce is found throughout the world, causing significant yield losses. Lettuce is the most-cultivated leafy vegetable in Greece, affected by a large number of foliar and soil-borne pathogens. In this study, 84 isolates of Fusarium oxysporum, obtained from soil-grown lettuce plants exhibiting wilt symptoms, were characterized as belonging to race 1 of F. oxysporum f. sp. lactucae based on sequence analysis of the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α) gene and the rDNA intergenic spacer (rDNA-IGS) region. The isolates were also assigned to one single race through PCR assays with specific primers targeting race 1 and race 4 of the pathogen. In addition, four representative isolates were confirmed to be associated with race 1 based on the pathogenicity tests with a set of differential lettuce cultivars. Artificial inoculations on the most commonly cultivated lettuce cultivars in Greece revealed that the tested cultivars varied regarding their susceptibility to F. oxysporum f. sp. lactucae race 1. Cultivars (cvs.) "Cencibel" and "Lugano" were found to be highly susceptible, while cvs. "Sandalina" and "Starfighter" were the most resistant ones. Expression analysis of 10 defense-related genes (PRB1, HPL1, LTC1, SOD, ERF1, PAL1, LOX, MPK, BG, and GST) was carried out on artificially inoculated lettuce plants of the four above cultivars at different time points after inoculation. In resistant cultivars, a higher induction rate was observed for all the tested genes in comparison with the susceptible ones. Moreover, in resistant cultivars, all genes except LTC1, MPK, and GST showed their highest induction levels in their earliest stages of infection. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the implementation of an integrated management program to control Fusarium wilt of lettuce, based mainly on the use of resistant cultivars.

Use of Induction of Labour and Emergency Cesarean Section and Perinatal Outcomes in English Maternity Services: A National Hospital-Level Study

ABSTRACT Care provided by maternity services requires a fine balance between support for the physiological process of birth and clinical intervention when needed. Yet, clinical guidelines for maternity care vary widely within and between countries. For singleton babies born at term in 149 hospitals of the National Health Service (NHS) in the United Kingdom alone, the rate of induction of labor varied from 16% to 44%, and the overall rate of cesarean delivery (CD) varied from 17% to 35% between April 2016 and March 2017. This suggests a lack of consensus around the indications for interventions, such as induction of labor and emergency CD. The debate often focuses on either the safety of childbirth or the women's experience to deliver good maternity care. The aim of this study was to examine the association between the rates of induction of labor and emergency CD with the risks of stillbirth, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and need for mechanical ventilation in neonates born at term. This was a national study using data collected from electronic maternity records between 2015 and 2017. Included were singleton pregnancies delivered in NHS hospitals providing maternity care. The primary outcomes were stillbirth, NICU admission, and mechanical ventilation. The entire cohort included 1,131,719 term, singleton births in 131 hospitals. The risks of stillbirth, NICU admission, and need for mechanical ventilation in the baby were 0.15%, 5.4%, and 0.54%, respectively. Between hospitals, the rate of induction of labor ranged from 17.5% to 40.7% (interquartile range, 24.6%–32.1%), and the rate of emergency CD ranged from 5.6% to 17.1% (interquartile range, 9.4%–11.8%). In hospitals with higher induction rates, the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes was lower, but the association was statistically significant only between the rate of induction and rates of stillbirth (P = 0.002) and mechanical ventilation (P = 0.001). For each 5%-point increase in the rate of induction at a hospital, there was a 9% decrease in the risk of stillbirth (odds ratio [OR], 0.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3%–15%) and a 14% decrease in the risk of mechanical ventilation (OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 6%–21%). There was no association between the rate of emergency CD and the primary outcomes (all P &gt; 0.05). In the United Kingdom, the rates of induction of labor and emergency CD varied considerably between hospitals. Those hospitals with higher rates of induction had lower risks of adverse perinatal outcomes, but not for emergency CD.

Pattern of weight gain in pregnant women and effect on maternal and neonatal outcome in Abuja, Nigeria: A longitudinal multicentre study

Background: Normal pregnancy is usually associated with weight gain. Abnormal weight gain in pregnancy could result in adverse neonatal and maternal outcome. Studies related to this in Nigeria are limited.Objective: The aim was to evaluate the pattern of weight gain in pregnancy and the feto-maternal outcome among women with different body mass indices attending antenatal clinic in the Federal capital territory (FCT).Study design: This was a longitudinal, multicentre study.Materials and Methods: Two hundred and twenty participants were recruited from 6 general hospitals in the FCT. Their body mass indices were calculated and they were categorized as underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese accordingly. They were followed up till 2 weeks postpartum. Maternal outcome sought included gestational hypertension, gestational diabetes and mode of delivery, postpartum haemorrhage, retained placenta and perineal injury. Neonatal outcomes included macrosomia, low birth weight, neonatal hypoglycaemia, shoulder dystocia, stillbirth and admission into special care baby unit (SCBU).Result: The mean age of participants was 28.8 years ±4.7 with parities ranging from 0-8. The majority of them (39%) were overweight. While most of the women (118, 56.2%) had normal weight gain (NWG) in pregnancy, 15(7.1%) had low weight gain (LWG) and 77(36.6%) had high weight gain (HWG). Most (95%) of the HWG was among the overweight and obese women. There was a higher induction rate and postpartum haemorrhage among HWG women and postdate among the obese group. There was no difference in neonatal outcome among the groups.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that HWG and LWG have more adverse pregnancy outcomes than NWG. Younger women (20-24years) with normal BMI at booking tend to gain suboptimal weight in pregnancy. HWG in pregnancy was commoner among overweight and obese women with increased induction of labour and postpartum haemorrhage among them. Post-date pregnancy was higher among the obese group. There was no difference in neonatal outcomes among the groups.