Transcriptome Profiling of a Soybean Mutant with Salt Tolerance Induced by Gamma-ray Irradiation.

Salt stress is a significant abiotic stress that reduces crop yield and quality globally. In this study, we utilized RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in response to salt stress induced by gamma-ray irradiation in a salt-tolerant soybean mutant. The total RNA library samples were obtained from the salt-sensitive soybean cultivar Kwangan and the salt-tolerant mutant KA-1285. Samples were taken at three time points (0, 24, and 72 h) from two tissues (leaves and roots) under 200 mM NaCl. A total of 967,719,358 clean reads were generated using the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform, and 94.48% of these reads were mapped to 56,044 gene models of the soybean reference genome (Glycine_max_Wm82.a2.v1). The DEGs with expression values were compared at each time point within each tissue between the two soybeans. As a result, 296 DEGs were identified in the leaves, while 170 DEGs were identified in the roots. In the case of the leaves, eight DEGs were related to the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway; however, in the roots, Glyma.03G171700 within GmSalt3, a major QTL associated with salt tolerance in soybean plants, was differentially expressed. Overall, these differences may explain the mechanisms through which mutants exhibit enhanced tolerance to salt stress, and they may provide a basic understanding of salt tolerance in soybean plants.

Morpho-physiological and genetic characteristics of a salt-tolerant mutant line in soybean (Glycine max L.).

KEY MESSAGE: One major quantitative trait loci and candidate gene for salt tolerance were identified on chromosome 3 from a new soybean mutant derived from gamma-ray irradiation, which will provide a new genetic resource for improving soybean salt tolerance. Soil salinity is a worldwide problem that reduces crop yields, but the development of salt-tolerant crops can help overcome this challenge. This study was conducted with the purpose of evaluating the morpho-physiological and genetic characteristics of a new salt-tolerant mutant KA-1285 developed using gamma-ray irradiation in soybean (Glycine max L.). The morphological and physiological responses of KA-1285 were compared with salt-sensitive and salt-tolerant genotypes after treatment with 150 mM NaCl for two weeks. In addition, a major salt tolerance quantitative trait locus (QTL) was identified on chromosome 3 in this study using the Daepung X KA-1285 169 F2:3 population, and a specific deletion was identified in Glyma03g171600 (Wm82.a2.v1) near the QTL region based on re-sequencing analysis. A kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) marker was developed based on the deletion of Glyma03g171600 which distinguished the wild-type and mutant alleles. Through the analysis of gene expression patterns, it was confirmed that Glyma03g171700 (Wm82.a2.v1) is a major gene that controls salt tolerance functions in Glyma03g32900 (Wm82.a1.v1). These results suggest that the gamma-ray-induced mutant KA-1285 has the potential to be employed for the development of a salt-tolerant cultivar and provide useful information for genetic research related to salt tolerance in soybeans.

A Genome-Wide Association Study of Protein, Oil, and Amino Acid Content in Wild Soybean (Glycine soja).

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is a globally important source of plant proteins, oils, and amino acids for both humans and livestock. Wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. and Zucc.), the ancestor of cultivated soybean, could be a useful genetic source for increasing these components in soybean crops. In this study, 96,432 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across 203 wild soybean accessions from the 180K Axiom® Soya SNP array were investigated using an association analysis. Protein and oil content exhibited a highly significant negative correlation, while the 17 amino acids exhibited a highly significant positive correlation with each other. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted on the protein, oil, and amino acid content using the 203 wild soybean accessions. A total of 44 significant SNPs were associated with protein, oil, and amino acid content. Glyma.11g015500 and Glyma.20g050300, which contained SNPs detected from the GWAS, were selected as novel candidate genes for the protein and oil content, respectively. In addition, Glyma.01g053200 and Glyma.03g239700 were selected as novel candidate genes for nine of the amino acids (Ala, Asp, Glu, Gly, Leu, Lys, Pro, Ser, and Thr). The identification of the SNP markers related to protein, oil, and amino acid content reported in the present study is expected to help improve the quality of selective breeding programs for soybeans.

Transcriptome Analysis of Differentially Expressed Genes Associated with Salt Stress in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) during the Early Vegetative Stage.

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.), 2n = 22) is a tropical crop grown in arid and semiarid regions that is tolerant to abiotic stresses such as heat and drought. However, in these regions, salt in the soil is generally not eluted by rainwater, leading to salt stress for a variety of plant species. This study was conducted to identify genes related to salt stress using the comparative transcriptome analysis of cowpea germplasms with contrasting salt tolerance. Using the Illumina Novaseq 6000 platform, 1.1 billion high-quality short reads, with a total length of over 98.6 billion bp, were obtained from four cowpea germplasms. Of the differentially expressed genes identified for each salt tolerance type following RNA sequencing, 27 were shown to exhibit significant expression levels. These candidate genes were subsequently narrowed down using reference-sequencing analysis, and two salt stress-related genes (Vigun_02G076100 and Vigun_08G125100) with single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variation were selected. Of the five SNPs identified in Vigun_02G076100, one that caused significant amino acid variation was identified, while all nucleotide variations in Vigun_08G125100 was classified as missing in the salt-resistant germplasms. The candidate genes and their variation, identified in this study provide, useful information for the development of molecular markers for cowpea breeding programs.

Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) Analysis of Seed Protein and Oil Content in Wild Soybean (Glycine soja).

Soybean seeds consist of approximately 40% protein and 20% oil, making them one of the world's most important cultivated legumes. However, the levels of these compounds are negatively correlated with each other and regulated by quantitative trait loci (QTL) that are controlled by several genes. In this study, a total of 190 F2 and 90 BC1F2 plants derived from a cross of Daepung (Glycine max) with GWS-1887 (G. soja, a source of high protein), were used for the QTL analysis of protein and oil content. In the F2:3 populations, the average protein and oil content was 45.52% and 11.59%, respectively. A QTL associated with protein levels was detected at Gm20_29512680 on chr. 20 with a likelihood of odds (LOD) of 9.57 and an R2 of 17.2%. A QTL associated with oil levels was also detected at Gm15_3621773 on chr. 15 (LOD: 5.80; R2: 12.2%). In the BC1F2:3 populations, the average protein and oil content was 44.25% and 12.14%, respectively. A QTL associated with both protein and oil content was detected at Gm20_27578013 on chr. 20 (LOD: 3.77 and 3.06; R2 15.8% and 10.7%, respectively). The crossover to the protein content of BC1F3:4 population was identified by SNP marker Gm20_32603292. Based on these results, two genes, Glyma.20g088000 (S-adenosyl-l-methionine-dependent methyltransferases) and Glyma.20g088400 (oxidoreductase, 2-oxoglutarate-Fe(II) oxygenase family protein), in which the amino acid sequence had changed and a stop codon was generated due to an InDel in the exon region, were identified.

Effect of changes in cerebral oximeter values during cardiac surgery on the incidence of postoperative neurocognitive deficits (POND): A retrospective study based on propensity score-matched analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The occurrence of postoperative neurocognitive deficits(POND)after major cardiac surgery is associated with an increase in perioperative mortality and morbidity. Oxidative stress caused by oxygen can affect neuronal damage, which can lead to POND. Whether the intraoperative rSO2 value reflects oxidative stress and the associated incidence of POND is unknown. METHODS: Among 3482 patients undergoing cardiac surgery, 976 patients were allocated for this retrospective study. Of these, 230 patients (32.5%) were observed to have postoperative neurologic symptoms. After propensity score 1:2 ratio matching, a total of 690 patients were included in the analysis. Recorded data on the occurrence of POND from the postoperative period to predischarge were collected from the electronic records. RESULTS: The mean baseline rSO2 value was higher in the POND (-) group than in the POND (+) group. The mean overall minimum rSO2 value was lower in the POND (+) group (52.2 ± 8.3 vs 48.3 ± 10.5, P < 0.001). The mean overall maximum rSO2 values were not significantly different between the two groups (72.7 ± 8.3 vs 73.2 ± 9.2, P = 0.526). However, there was a greater increase in the overall maximum rSO2 values as compared with baseline in the POND (+) group (10.9 ± 8.2 vs 17.9 ± 10.2, P < 0.001). The degree of increase in the maximum rSO2 value was a risk factor affecting the occurrence of POND (adjusted odds ratio, 1.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-1.11; P < 0.001). The areas under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for delta values of minimal and maximal compared with baseline values were 0.60 and 0.71, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Increased cerebral oximeter levels during cardiac surgery may also be a risk factor for POND. This is considered to reflect the possibility of oxidative neuronal damage, and further studies are needed in the future.

Comparison between anteroposterior and oblique "Scotty dog" approach during S1 transforaminal epidural steroid injection: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Traditionally, S1 transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) has been performed using an anteroposterior (AP) fluoroscopic view. In 2007, the oblique "Scotty dog" (OS) approach was introduced as an alternative technique. We compared passage time of the needle into S1 foramen (Tf) between the anteroposterior (AP) and oblique "Scotty dog" (OS) approach during S1 TFESI. METHODS: In this prospective randomized controlled trial, seventy patients scheduled S1 TFESI were randomly allocated into AP or OS groups. In the AP group, a slight cephalad-caudad tilt was used. In the OS group, the C-arm was rotated ipsilateral oblique degrees to view the S1 Scotty dog. Both groups received injection of steroid mixed with local anesthetics. We measured the passage time of the needle into S1 foramen (Tf), primary outcome, and total procedure time (Tt) between the groups. We also recorded presence of intravascular injection, patients-assessed pain relief for one month and complications. RESULTS: The Tf and Tt were shorter in the OS than in the AP group (24.4 ±â€Š24.0 s vs 47. 8 ±â€Š53.2seconds; 93.3 ±â€Š35.0 seconds vs 160.0 ±â€Š98.7 seconds, P < .001, both). Incidence of intravascular injection (AP, 8 [22.8%]; OS, 4 [11.4%], P = .205), pain score, and complication rates were not statistically different between the two groups. In logistic regression analysis, the body mass index (BMI) was a risk factor for longer Tt (odds ratio [OR] = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.02-1.58, P = .030). CONCLUSION: The passage time of the needle into S1 foramen was shorter in OS approach and the OS approach reduced the procedure time compared with the AP approach during S1 TFESI. The practitioners should note that procedure time can be prolonged in obese patients.

The effect of benzydamine hydrochloride on preventing postoperative sore throat after total thyroidectomy: a randomized-controlled trial.

PURPOSE: We compared the effects of benzydamine hydrochloride (BH), 10% lidocaine, and normal saline spray on preventing postoperative sore throat (POST) in patients who underwent total thyroidectomy (TT). METHODS: In this prospective, randomized, parallel-group, double-blind study, the incidence of POST at six hours after tracheal extubation was compared among three groups as a primary outcome. American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II patients undergoing elective TT under general anesthesia were enrolled. Patients were randomly stratified into group C (n = 33, normal saline), group L (n = 33, 10% lidocaine), or group B (n = 33, 0.3% BH). The participants, caregiver, and investigator were blinded to group assignment. Each study drug was sprayed three times on the endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff ten seconds before intubation. Incidence and severity of POST were recorded within 24 hr postoperatively (during postanesthesia care unit stay, and at six, 12, and 24 hr after extubation). P values were adjusted for multiple comparisons. RESULTS: Ninety-nine patients were enrolled. Eighty-seven patients completed the study. The incidence of POST at six hours after tracheal extubation was similar among the three groups (group C: 31 [93.9%], group L: 29 [87.9%], and group B: 27 [81.8%]; P = 0.38). Nevertheless, the incidence of POST was significantly different among the three groups at 12 and 24 hr after TT (12 hr: P = 0.002, 24 hr: P = 0.01). The severity of POST after tracheal extubation was statistically different among the study groups (6 hr: P = 0.04, 12 hr: P = 0.01). No adverse effects were observed. CONCLUSION: Application of BH spray on the ETT cuff reduced the incidence and severity of POST at 12 hr after TT. We suggest this method to be a non-invasive and effective management option for POST without serious side effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0002627); registered 24 November, 2017.

RéSUMé: OBJECTIF: Nous avons comparé les effets de la vaporisation de chlorhydrate de benzydamine (CB), de lidocaïne 10 %, ou de solution saline sur la prévention des maux de gorge postopératoires chez les patients subissant une thyroïdectomie totale (TT). MéTHODE: Dans cette étude prospective, randomisée, en parallèle et à double insu, l'incidence des maux de gorge postopératoires six heures après l'extubation trachéale a été comparée dans trois groupes pour répondre à notre critère d'évaluation principal. Des patients de statut physique I-II selon l'American Society of Anesthesiologists et subissant une TT non urgente sous anesthésie générale ont été recrutés. Les patients ont été aléatoirement alloués au groupe C (n = 33, solution saline), au groupe L (n = 33, lidocaïne 10 %), ou au groupe B (n = 33, CB 0,3 %). Les participants, anesthésistes et chercheurs ne connaissaient pas l'allocation de groupe. Chaque médicament étudié était vaporisé trois fois sur le ballonnet du tube endotrachéal (TET) dix secondes avant l'intubation. L'incidence et la gravité des maux de gorge postopératoires ont été enregistrées dans les 24 heures postopératoires (pendant le séjour en salle de réveil, et à six, 12 et 24 h après l'extubation). Les valeurs P ont été ajustées pour tenir compte des comparaisons multiples. RéSULTATS: Quatre-vingt-dix-neuf patients ont été recrutés. Quatre-vingt-sept patients ont terminé l'étude. L'incidence des maux de gorge postopératoires à six heures après l'extubation trachéale était semblable dans les trois groupes (groupe C : 31 [93,9 %], groupe L : 29 [87,9 %], et groupe B : 27 [81,8 %]; P = 0,38). Toutefois, l'incidence de maux de gorge postopératoires était significativement différente entre les trois groupes à 12 et 24 h après la TT (12 h : P = 0,002, 24 h : P = 0,01). La gravité des maux de gorge postopératoires après l'extubation trachéale était différente d'un point de vue statistique entre les groupes à l'étude (6 h : P = 0,04, 12 h : P = 0,01). Aucun effet secondaire indésirable n'a été observé. CONCLUSION: Le recours à une vaporisation de chlorhydrate de benzydamine sur le ballonnet du tube endotrachéal a réduit l'incidence et la gravité des maux de gorge postopératoires à 12 h après une thyroïdectomie totale. Selon nos résultats, cette méthode constitue une option de prise en charge non invasive et efficace des maux de gorge postopératoires sans effets secondaires importants. ENREGISTREMENT DE L'éTUDE: Clinical Research Information Service (KCT0002627); enregistrée le 24 novembre 2017.

Long-Term Follow-Up Results of Photoselective Vaporization of the Prostate with the 120 W Greenlight HPS Laser for Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.

PURPOSE: With the use of 12 months of follow-up data, this study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) with the 120 W Greenlight high performance system (HPS) laser for the treatment of symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected from 104 patients who were diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia and who underwent PVP with the 120 W Greenlight HPS Laser. Postoperative parameters, including International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL) score, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), and postvoid residual volume (PVR), were assessed and compared with preoperative baseline values. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 71.1±7.7. The baseline mean prostate-specific antigen level was 3.8±2.7 ng/ml, the mean prostate size was 43.9±20.6 g, the mean preoperative IPSS was 18.4±8.5, the mean QoL score was 4.1±1.0, the mean Qmax was 9.9±5.5 ml/sec, and the mean PVR was 89.6±207.1 ml. During surgery, the mean operation time was 21.8±11.3 minutes, the mean lasing time was 16.9±10.5 minutes, and the mean total applied energy was 170,068±63,181 J. At 1 month, significant improvements were observed in total IPSS (11.5±6.7, p<0.05), voiding symptom score (6.1±5.4, p<0.05), and QoL score (2.2±1.5, p<0.05); however, there were no significant improvements in storage symptom score (4.8±3.8, p=0.06), Qmax (12.6±10.2, p=0.06), and PVR (40.1±30.5, p=0.41). However, 3 months after surgery, all postoperative follow-up parameters showed significant improvements, and the 6- and 12-month data showed sustained improvement of postoperative follow-up parameters. CONCLUSIONS: Significant improvements were observed in subjective and objective voiding parameters, which were evident at 3 months after PVP and were sustained throughout a period of 12 months after PVP.