Genome-wide identification of HMT gene family explores BpHMT2 enhancing selenium accumulation and tolerance in Broussonetia papyrifera.

Broussonetia papyrifera, a valuable feed resource, is known for its fast growth, wide adaptability, high protein content and strong selenium enrichment capacity. Selenomethionine (SeMet), the main selenium form in selenium fortification B. papyrifera, is safe for animals and this enhances its nutritional value as a feed resource. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying SeMet synthesis remain unclear. This study identified three homocysteine S-methyltransferase genes from the B. papyrifera genome. The phylogenetic tree demonstrated that BpHMTs were divided into two classes, and BpHMT2 in the Class 2-D subfamily evolved earlier and possesses more fundamental functions. On the basis of the correlation between gene expression levels and selenium content, BpHMT2 was identified as a key candidate gene associated with selenium tolerance. Subcellular localization experiments confirmed the targeting of BpHMT2 in nucleus, cell membrane and chloroplasts. Moreover, three BpHMT2 overexpression Arabidopsis thaliana lines were confirmed to enhance plant selenium tolerance and SeMet accumulation. Overall, our finding provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of selenium metabolism in B. papyrifera, highlighting the potential role of BpHMT2 in SeMet synthesis. This research contributes to our understanding of selenium-enriched feed resources, with increased SeMet content contributing to the improved nutritional value of B. papyrifera as a feed resource.

Diode Laser Enucleation vs. Bipolar Transurethral Enucleation of Prostate for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Retrospective Comparative Study with Three-Year Follow Up.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the clinical outcome of 1470 nm diode laser enucleation of the prostate (DiLEP) vs. bipolar transurethral enucleation of prostate (TUEP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). METHODS: One hundred and fifty-seven patients were retrospectively involved in this study. Eighty-two patients underwent DiLEP while 75 underwent bipolar TUEP. Seventy-three patients in DiLEP and sixty-nine in bipolar TUEP completed the 3-year follow-up, respectively. The baseline properties, perioperative data, and postsurgical outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences were found between DiLEP and bipolar TUEP in preoperative parameters. Significantly shorter operating time was noted in DiLEP group (p = 0.000). No patient suffered dangerous complications, and none in either group required a blood transfusion. No statistically significant differences were found between DiLEP and bipolar TUEP in the decrease in hemoglobin or sodium. During the 3-year postoperative follow-up, ongoing and significant improvements were found in both groups without any difference. CONCLUSIONS: Both DiLEP and bipolar TUEP can improve low urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to BPH in a comparable way with high efficacy. Compared with bipolar TUEP, DiLEP with a morcellator required a shorter operative time.

Predicting the comprehensive geospatial pattern of two ephedrine-type alkaloids for Ephedra sinica in Inner Mongolia.

Ephedra sinica Stapf. is a shrubby plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine due to its high level of medicinal value, thus, it is in high demand. Ephedrine (E) and pseudoephedrine (PE) are key medicinal components and quality indicators for E. sinica. These two ephedrine-type alkaloids are basic elements that exert the medicinal effect of E. sinica. Recently, indiscriminate destruction and grassland desertification have caused the quantity and quality of these pharmacological plants to degenerate. Predicting potentially suitable habitat for high-quality E. sinica is essential for its future conservation and domestication. In this study, MaxEnt software was utilized to map suitable habitats for E. sinica in Inner Mongolia based on occurrence data and a set of variables related to climate, soil, topography and human impact. The model parametrization was optimized by evaluating alternative combinations of feature classes and values of the regularization multiplier. Second, a geospatial quality model was fitted to relate E and PE contents to the same environmental variables and to predict their spatial patterns across the study area. Outputs from the two models were finally coupled to map areas predicted to have both suitable conditions for E. sinica and high alkaloid content. Our results indicate that E. sinica with high-quality E content was mainly distributed in the Horqin, Ulan Butong and Wulanchabu grasslands. E. sinica with high-quality PE content was primarily found in the Ordos, Wulanchabu and Ulan Butong grasslands. This study provides scientific information for the protection and sustainable utilization of E. sinica. It can also help to control and prevent desertification in Inner Mongolia.