Guidelines for the clinical application of the Xihuang pill for the prevention and treatment of breast hyperplasia diseases

CONTEXT

The Xihuang pill (XHP) is a traditional Chinese medicine formulation that has been historically used in the prevention and treatment of proliferative breast diseases. However, there is a lack of guidelines that offer recommendations for its clinical use.

OBJECTIVE

The task force from the Chinese Guangdong Pharmaceutical Association aims to develop evidence-based guidelines for XHP to prevent and treat proliferative breast diseases.

METHODS

We searched six Chinese and English electronic databases, including the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, the Chinese Scientific Journal Database, the Wanfang Medical Database, PubMed, and Embase, up to November 1, 2022. Publications (case reports, clinical observation, clinical trials, reviews) on using XHP to treat proliferative breast diseases were manually searched. The search terms were Xihuang pill, hyperplasia of the mammary gland, breast lump, and mastalgia. The writing team developed recommendations based on the best available evidence.

RESULTS

Treatment should be customized based on syndrome identification. We recommend using XHP for the prevention and treatment of breast hyperplasia disease when a patient presents the following syndromes: concurrent blood stasis syndrome, concurrent phlegm-stasis syndrome, and concurrent liver fire syndrome. Safety indicators, including blood analysis and liver and kidney function monitoring, should be performed regularly during treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Current clinical evidence suggests that XHP can be used as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other medications to prevent and manage breast hyperplasia diseases. More randomized controlled studies are warranted to establish high-quality evidence of its use.

Fungal communities are more sensitive to mildew than bacterial communities during tobacco storage processes

Mildew poses a significant threat to tobacco production; however, there is limited information on the structure of the abundant and rare microbial subcommunities in moldy tobacco leaves. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing technology to discern the disparities in the composition, diversity, and co-occurrence patterns of abundant and rare fungal and bacterial subcommunities between moldy and normal tobacco leaves collected from Guizhou, Shanghai, and Jilin provinces, China. Furthermore, we explored the correlation between microorganisms and metabolites by integrating the metabolic profiles of moldy and normal tobacco leaves. The results showed that the fungi are more sensitive to mildew than bacteria, and that the fungal abundant taxa exhibit greater resistance and environmental adaptability than the rare taxa. The loss of rare taxa results in irreversible changes in the diversity, richness, and composition of the fungal community. Moreover, rare fungal taxa and abundant bacterial taxa played crucial roles in maintaining the stability and functionality of the tobacco microecosystem. In moldy tobacco, however, the disappearance of rare taxa as key nodes resulted in reduced connectivity and stability within the fungal network. In addition, metabolomic analysis showed that the contents of indoles, pyridines, polyketones, phenols, and peptides were significantly enriched in the moldy tobacco leaves, while the contents of amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids, and other compounds were significantly reduced in these leaves. Most metabolites showed negative correlations with Dothideomycetes, Alphaproteobacteria, and Gammaproteobacteria, but showed positive correlations with Eurotiales and Bacilli. This study has demonstrated that abundant fungal taxa are the predominant biological agents responsible for tobacco mildew, while bacteria may indirectly contribute to this process through the production and degradation of metabolites. KEY POINTS: • Fungi exhibited greater sensitivity to mildew of tobacco leaf compared to bacteria • Rare fungal taxa underwent significant damage during the mildew process • Mildew may damage the defense system of the tobacco leaf microecosystem.

The safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of heterologous boosting with a SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine (SYS6006) in Chinese participants aged 18 years or more: a randomized, open-label, active-controlled phase 3 trial

Continuous emergence of new variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), enhanced transmissibility, significant immune escape, and waning immunity call for booster vaccination. We evaluated the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of heterologous booster with a SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine SYS6006 versus an active control vaccine in a randomized, open-label, active-controlled phase 3 trial in healthy adults aged 18 years or more who had received two or three doses of SARS-CoV-2 inactivated vaccine in China. The trial started in December 2022 and lasted for 6 months. The participants were randomized (overall ratio: 3:1) to receive one dose of SYS6006 (N = 2999) or an ancestral receptor binding region-based, alum-adjuvanted recombinant protein SARS-CoV-2 vaccine (N = 1000), including 520 participants in an immunogenicity subgroup. SYS6006 boosting showed good safety profiles with most AEs being grade 1 or 2, and induced robust wild-type and Omicron BA.5 neutralizing antibody response on Days 14 and 28, demonstrating immunogenicity superiority versus the control vaccine and meeting the primary objective. The relative vaccine efficacy against COVID-19 of any severity was 51.6% (95% CI, 35.5-63.7) for any variant, 66.8% (48.6-78.5) for BA.5, and 37.7% (2.4-60.3) for XBB, from Day 7 through Month 6. In the vaccinated and infected hybrid immune participants, the relative vaccine efficacy was 68.4% (31.1-85.5) against COVID-19 of any severity caused by a second infection. All COVID-19 cases were mild. SYS6006 heterologous boosting demonstrated good safety, superior immunogenicity and high efficacy against BA.5-associated COVID-19, and protected against XBB-associated COVID-19, particularly in the hybrid immune population.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2200066941.

Perceptions of abused Chinese women on community-based participatory approach programme in addressing their needs

BACKGROUND

The community-based participatory approach (CBPA) has gained increasing recognition worldwide for enhancing the effectiveness of intervention. It is relatively new in Chinese societies and participants' perceptions are underexplored. This study aims to explore abused Chinese women's perceptions on the CBPA programme in addressing their needs.

METHODS

A total of 11 abused Chinese women were recruited for a focus group and individual interviews. A semi-structured interview guide was used. All interviews were audio-recorded and data were transcribed verbatim. Conventional content analysis was used for analysis.

RESULTS

Four themes were identified regarding the women's perceptions and experiences of the community-based participatory approach programme: (1) Women's perceived acceptability of the CBPA programme; (2) Women's perceived usefulness of the CBPA programme; (3) Women's perceived feasibility of the CBPA programme; and (4) Empowering the women through participating in CBPA.

CONCLUSIONS

Abused Chinese women had high perceived acceptance and positive experiences towards the community-based participatory approach. Women benefited from their robust participation throughout the process. The findings confirm the potential of using the community-based participatory approach in designing interventions for future programme planning and intervention to address the needs of abused Chinese women.

Whole genome resequencing-based analysis of plateau adaptation in Meiren yak (Bos grunniens)

The Meiren yak is an important genetic resource in Gansu Province, China. In this study, we aimed to explore the evolutionary history and population structure of the genetic resource of Meiren yak and to mine the characteristic genes of Meiren yak. We analysed a total of 93 yaks of eight yak breeds based on whole genome resequencing combined with population genomics and used θπ ratio and Fst method to screen the selected sites in the genome region. The results proved that Meiren yak can be used as a potential genetic resource in Gansu Province. The genes in Meiren yak with positive selection in selection signal analysis were subjected to the Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional enrichment analyses, which indicated that the genes were related to the adaptability to high altitude and hypoxic environment. By analysing the genetic variation of Meiren yak at the genome-wide level, this study provided a theoretical basis for genetic improvement of Meiren yak and for the development of high-quality yak resources.

Analysis of genetic diversity and structure of endangered Dengchuan cattle population using a single-nucleotide polymorphism chip

This study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity and structure within the Dengchuan cattle population and effectively protect and utilize their germplasm resources. Herein, the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of 100 Dengchuan cattle (46 bulls and 54 cows) were determined using the GGP Bovine 100K SNP Beadchip. The results showed that among the Dengchuan cattle, a total of 101,220 SNPs were detected, and there were 83,534 SNPs that passed quality control, of which 85.7% were polymorphic. The average genetic distance based on identity-by-state (IBS) within the conservation population of Dengchuan cattle was 0.26 ± 0.02. A total of 3,999 genome-length runs of homozygosity (ROHs) were detected in the Dengchuan cattle, with ROH lengths primarily concentrated in the range of 1-5 Mb, accounting for 87.02% of the total. The average inbreeding coefficient based on ROHs was 4.6%, within the conservation population of Dengchuan cattle, whereas it was 4.9% for bulls, and the Wright inbreeding coefficient (FIS) value was 2.4%, demonstrating a low level of inbreeding within the Dengchuan cattle population. Based on neighbor-joining tree analysis, the Dengchuan cattle could be divided into 16 families. In summary, the conservation population of Dengchuan cattle displays relatively abundant diversity and a moderate genetic relationship. Inbreeding was observed among a few individuals, but the overall inbreeding level of the population remained low. It is important to maintain this low level of inbreeding when introducing purebred bloodlines to expand the core group. This approach will ensure the long-term conservation of Dengchuan cattle germplasm resources and prevent loss of genetic diversity.

Study on quality control methods and pharmacodynamic material basis of different specifications of Corydalis Rhizoma produced in Zhejiang Province

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The quality control methods of different specifications of Corydalis Rhizoma in Zhejiang China (ZJ CR) are the same, so the quality of each specification couldnot be guaranteed. To clarify the quality control methods and pharmacodynamic material basis of ZJ CR with different specifications could provide reference for the quality control of ZJ CR.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to establish a quality control method for ZJ CR with different specifications and to screen out the pharmacodynamic material basis of ZJ CR with different specifications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Firstly, according to the existing grading standards, the medicinal materials were divided into specifications, and the character indexes of ZJ CR with different specifications were established. The quality indexes were established by HPLC, network pharmacology and literature retrieval. The correlation between the trait indexes and quality indexes of ZJ CR with different specifications was analyzed, and the best quality control method was established. Further combined with the pharmacodynamic indexes of ZJ CR with different specifications, the pharmacodynamic material basis of ZJ CR with different specifications was screened out by spectrum-effect analysis. The correlation between trait indexes and pharmacodynamic indexes was analyzed to verify the rationality of grade standard.

RESULTS

The three specifications of ZJ CR were CR (Diameter ≥1.1 cm), CR (Diameter <1.1 cm), and CR (No size distinction). Diameter, width, thickness, grain weight, volume and 50 g grain number could be used as the trait indexes of ZJ CR. Protopine (CR1), palmatine hydrochloride (CR2), berberine hydrochloride (CR3), dehydrocorydaline (CR4), tetrahydropalmatine (CR5), tetrahydroberberine (CR6), corydaline (CR7), stylopine (CR8) and isoimperatorin (CR9) were identified. Total components, core components (CR5, CR6, CR7 and CR8), alcohol-soluble extracts (ASE) could be used as quality indexes. The best quality control methods of the three specifications respectively were: the larger the diameter and grain weight, the smaller the number of 50 g grains; The larger the diameter, the smaller the volume, thickness, width and number of 50 g particles; The larger the grain weight and volume, the smaller the number of 50 g grains. The main analgesic components of the three specifications respectively were: CR1, CR2 and core components; CR2, CR4; CR8, CR9. The larger the diameter and the less the number of 50 g grains, the better the analgesic effect of ZJ CR, and the grade standard was reasonable.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that the quality control methods and pharmacodynamic material basis of ZJ CR with different specifications were different, which may be caused by the differences in traits and the contribution of main active ingredients. This study constructed an evaluation model combining external traits, internal quality and overall efficacy, and provided theoretical support for the rationality of ZJ CR grade standard.

Source apportionment and specific-source-site risk of quinolone antibiotics for effluent-receiving urban rivers and groundwater in a city, China

There is a large surface-groundwater exchange downstream of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), and antibiotics upstream may influence sites downstream of rivers. Thus, samples from 9 effluent-receiving urban rivers (ERURs) and 12 groundwater sites were collected in Shijiazhuang City in December 2020 and April 2021. For ERURs, 8 out of 13 target quinolone antibiotics (QNs) were detected, and the total concentration of QNs in December and April were 100.6-4,398 ng/L and 8.02-2,476 ng/L, respectively. For groundwater, all target QNs were detected, and the total QNs concentration was 1.09-23.03 ng/L for December and 4.54-170.3 ng/L for April. The distribution of QNs was dissimilar between ERURs and groundwater. Most QN concentrations were weakly correlated with land use types in the system. The results of a positive matrix factorization model (PMF) indicated four potential sources of QNs in both ERURs and groundwater, and WWTP effluents were the main source of QNs. From December to April, the contribution of WWTP effluents and agricultural emissions increased, while livestock activities decreased. Singular value decomposition (SVD) results showed that the spatial variation of most QNs was mainly contributed by sites downstream (7.09%-88.86%) of ERURs. Then, a new method that combined the results of SVD and PMF was developed for a specific-source-site risk quotient (SRQ), and the SRQ for QNs was at high level, especially for the sites downstream of WWTPs. Regarding temporal variation, the SRQ for WWTP effluents, aquaculture, and agricultural emissions increased. Therefore, in order to control the antibiotic pollution, more attention should be paid to WWTP effluents, aquaculture, and agricultural emission sources for the benefit of sites downstream of WWTPs.

Proficiency testing for event-specific quantification of genetically modified maize MON87427: Performance assessment based on the metrologically traceable reference values as assigned values

The Asia Pacific Metrology Program and the Accreditation Cooperation joint Proficiency Testing (PT) program for the quantification of genetically modified maize MON87427 was organized by the National Institute of Metrology, China, to enhance the measurement accuracy and metrological traceability in the region. Certified reference materials were employed as test samples; metrologically traceable certified reference values served as PT reference values (PTRVs) for evaluating the participants results. The consensus values obtained from the participants were higher than the assigned values, potentially due to the systematic effects of DNA extraction process. The participants' relatively poor overall performance by the ζ-score compared with z-score demonstrates their need to thoroughly investigate quantification bias to elevate the measurement capability of genetically modified (GM) content and deepen their understanding of uncertainty estimation. This program confirmed the importance of using metrologically traceable reference values instead of consensus values as PTRV for reliable performance assessment.

Isolation and evaluation of probiotics from traditional Chinese foods for aflatoxin B1 detoxification: Geotrichum candidum XG1 (yeast) and mechanistic insights

Identifying aflatoxin-detoxifying probiotics remains a significant challenge in mitigating the risks associated with aflatoxin contamination in crops. Biological detoxification is a popular technique that reduces mycotoxin hazards and garners consumer acceptance. Through multiple rounds of screening and validation tests, Geotrichum candidum XG1 demonstrated the ability to degrade aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) by 99-100%, exceeding the capabilities of mere adsorption mechanisms. Notably, the degradation efficiency was demonstrably influenced by the presence of copper and iron ions in the liquid medium, suggesting a potential role for proteases in the degradation process. Subsequent validation experiments with red pepper revealed an 83% reduction in AFB1 levels following fermentation with G. candidum XG1. Furthermore, mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the disruption of the AFB1 furan ring structure, leading to a subsequent reduction in its toxicity. Collectively, these findings establish G. candidum XG1 as a promising candidate for effective aflatoxin degradation, with potential applications within the food industry.

The potential up-regulation risk of 3' UTR SNP (rs10787760 G > A) for the VAX1 gene is associated with NSCLP in the northwest Chinese population

AIMS

To investigate the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 3'UTR region of VAX1, SYT14 and PAX7 genes and the risk of non-syndromic cleft palate (NSCLP) in a northwest Chinese population.

MAIN METHODS

A case-control study was conducted in 406 normal controls and 399 NSCLP patients. Using iMLDRTM genotyping technology, eight SNPs of three genes ((rs10787760, rs7086344 at VAX1), (rs1010113, rs851114, and rs485874 at PAX7), and (rs61820397, rs4609425, rs12133399 at SYT14)) were genotyped to investigate the differences in alleles and genotype distribution frequencies between NSCLP patients and healthy controls. RNA Folding Form software was used to predict RNA secondary structure and expression vectors were constructed to explore the function of the relevant SNP. The effect of SNP polymorphism of gene transcription and translation was assessed using qPCR and Western blot analysis.

KEY FINDINGS

Among the eight SNPs of three genes, rs10787760 of VAX1 gene was found to be associated with an increased risk of NSCLP (OR = 1.341, CI = 1.004-1.790) and the GA genotype of rs10787760 increased the risk of cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) about 1.42 times (p < 0.05), and carrying the A allele might increase the risk of NSCL/P in male (OR = 1.356, 95 % CI = 1.010-1.823). But there was no association observed with cleft palate only (CPO). Cell function experiments revealed that the G to A mutation in rs10787760 up-regulated GFP-VAX1 transcriptional level by 2.39 and 3.13 times in two cell lines respectively, and enhance the protein expression of the VAX1 gene further. RNA secondary structure study showed that the rs10787760 (G > A) had two different secondary structures in 3'UTR region.

SIGNIFICANCE

The rs10787760 variant in the 3'UTR region of VAX1 gene is associated with CL/P in northwest Chinese population. We hypothesize that the machanism of it might be caused by the RNA differenct fold in the 3'UTR region caused by the polymorphism of the gene.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Original Reports.

Improving photochemical indicators for attributing ozone sensitivities in source apportionment analysis

Comprehensive Air Quality Model with extensions (CAMx)-Decoupled Direct Method (DDM) simulations of first-order ozone (O3) sensitivity to nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions were performed and combined with modelled [Formula: see text] ratios to obtain a range of thresholds for determining O3-sensitivity regimes for different areas of China. Utilising the new threshold ranges for photochemical indicators, the method for determining O3 formation in the Ozone Source Apportionment Technology (OSAT) module within CAMx was improved by a dynamically varied threshold of [Formula: see text] ratio. The O3 concentration contributions in the newly added transition regime were apportioned to NOx and VOCs emissions in proportion to the relationship between the [Formula: see text] ratio and first-order O3 sensitivity. The source contributions of O3 concentrations from different emission sectors from June to September 2019 were compared using the original and improved CAMx-OSAT. The results showed that the O3 concentration contributions changed significantly in the NOx-limited regime, with a maximum decrease of 21.89%, while the contributions increased by up to 7.57% in the VOC-limited regime, and were within 15 µg/m3 in the transition regime. The modified OSAT module enabled a more sophisticated attribution of O3 to precursor emissions and may have far-reaching implications for informing O3 pollution control policy.

Pollution characteristics and source apportionment of heavy metal(loid)s in soil and groundwater of a retired industrial park

Heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) pollution has become a common and complex problem in industrial parks due to rapid industrialization and urbanization. Here, soil and groundwater were sampled from a retired industrial park to investigate the pollution characteristics of HMs. Results show that Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cd, and Cu were the typical HMs in the soil. Source analysis with the positive matrix factorization model indicates that HMs in the topsoil stemmed from industrial activities, traffic emission, and natural source, and the groundwater HMs originated from industrial activities, groundwater-soil interaction, groundwater-rock interaction, and atmosphere deposition. The sequential extraction of soil HMs reveals that As and Hg were mainly distributed in the residue fraction, while Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn, Cd, and Cu mainly existed in the mobile fraction. Most HMs either in the total concentration or in the bioavailable fraction preferred to retain in soil as indicated by their high soil-water partitioning coefficients (Kd), and the Kd values were correlated with soil pH, groundwater redox potential, and dissolved oxygen. The relative stable soil-groundwater circumstance and the low active fraction contents limited the vertical migration of soil HMs and their release to groundwater. These findings increase our knowledge about HMs pollution characteristics of traditional industrial parks and provide a protocol for HMs pollution scrutinizing in large zones.

Diversity and ecological assembly process of aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria in a low irradiation area, Three Gorges Reservoir

Aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria (AAPB) are significant bacterial groups in aquatic ecosystems, known for their rapid growth and photoheterotrophic characteristics. However, the distribution and ecological assembly process of AAPB in low irradiation freshwater basins remain unclear, warranting further investigation. In this study, we present the diversity, abundance, spatial variations, ecological process, and community interaction of AAPB in sediment of Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) under low irradiation. Our findings demonstrate the dominant genera of AAPB community that exist in the TGR area also are appeared in different waters, with some regional preference. Moreover, the concentration of pufM gene, an indicator for AAPB, maintains a consistently high numerical level ranging from (2.21 ± 0.44) × 104 to (9.98 ± 0.30) × 107 gene copies/g. Although solar irradiation is suggested as the major factor affecting AAPB, it remains unclear whether and how AAPB differ between regions due to varying solar irradiation levels. Our results show spatial differences between total bacteria and AAPB communities, with significant differences observed only in AAPB. Geographical and environmental factor contributed less than 10% to the spatial difference of community, with sediment type and environmental factors being the key factors influencing microbial community structure. The stochastic process plays a dominant role in the aggregation and replacement of AAPB communities, among which the most contribution is dispersal limitation. For AAPB network, Yoonia and Gemmobacter are the hubs for modules. Those results valuable insights into the AAPB communities in TGR with low irradiation.

Integrative metagenomics, volatilomics and chemometrics for deciphering the microbial structure and core metabolic network during Chinese rice wine (Huangjiu) fermentation in different regions

Huangjiu is a spontaneously fermented alcoholic beverage, that undergoes intricate microbial compositional changes. This study aimed to unravel the flavor and quality formation mechanisms based on the microbial metabolism of Huangjiu. Here, metagenome techniques, chemometrics analysis, and headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) metabolomics combined with microbial metabolic network were employed to investigate the distinctions and relationship between the microbial profiles and the quality characteristics, flavor metabolites, functional metabolic patterns of Huangjiu across three regions. Significant variations (P < 0.05) were observed in metabolic rate of physicochemical parameters and biogenic amine concentration among three regions. 8 aroma compounds (phenethyl acetate, phenylethyl alcohol, isobutyl alcohol, ethyl octanoate, ethyl acetate, ethyl hexanoate, isoamyl alcohol, and diethyl succinate) out of 448 volatile compounds were identified as the regional chemical markers. 25 dominant microbial genera were observed through metagenomic analysis, and 13 species were confirmed as microbial markers in three regions. A metabolic network analysis revealed that Saccharomycetales (Saccharomyces), Lactobacillales (Lactobacillus, Weissella, and Leuconostoc), and Eurotiales (Aspergillus) were the predominant populations responsible for substrate, flavor (mainly esters and phenylethyl alcohol) metabolism, Lactobacillales and Enterobacterales were closely linked with biogenic amine. These findings provide scientific evidence for regional microbial contributions to geographical characteristics of Huangjiu, and perspectives for optimizing microbial function to promote Huangjiu quality.

Impact of rice variety, cooking equipment and pretreatment method on the quality of lightly milled rice

Lightly milled rice is a healthier choice compared to refined white rice. In this study, the effects of variety, cooking equipment and pretreatment method on the quality of six varieties of lightly milled rice from China after cooking was investigated through physics, chemistry and instrumental analysis method. Nanjing-No.5055 has the best eating quality, Xiadao-No.1 has higher appearance score, and Fengliangyouxiang-No.1 has the lowest glycemic index. Compared with microwave oven and electric cooker, steamer has a more significant positive impact on component retention, eating quality and sensory quality, but the former has lower cooking time and higher glycemic index. Soaking can effectively improve the water absorption rate, thus reducing hardness. Cleaning affects component retention but is beneficial for sensory quality. The most obvious variation in organizational structure can be observed in the steamer and soaking processes. These findings could serve as a valuable reference for the processing of lightly milled rice.

Geographical traceability of flavor compounds in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis): Implications for quality differentiation, authenticity assessment, and mechanism research

Geographical traceability plays a crucial role in ensuring quality assurance, brand establishment, and the sustainable development of the crab industry. In this study, we examined the possibility of using gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry with multivariate statistical authenticity analysis to identify the origin of crabs from five sites downstream of the Yangtze River. Significant variations were observed in the levels of alcoholic flavor compounds in the hepatopancreas and muscles of crabs from different geographical locations, and a support vector machine exhibited discriminant ability with 100% accuracy. These flavor variations exhibited significant correlations with the types and concentrations of elements within the crabs, as well as with free amino acids. This study offers a practical approach for determining the geographical traceability of Chinese mitten crabs and elucidates the role of elements in flavor modulation, thereby providing innovative strategies to enhance the efficiency of crab farming.

Bioactive metabolite profiles and quality of Rosa rugosa during its growing and flower-drying process

Rosa rugosa is extensively cultivated in China for its remarkable fragrance and flavor, however, the metabolic changes in roses during growth and drying remain unclear. Our results revealed significant variations in phenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant capacity in roses (Rosa rugosa f. plena (Regel) Byhouwer) under different conditions. Phenol contents were positively correlated with antioxidant capacity, with phytochemicals being most prominent in unfolded petals. The highest antioxidant capacity and phenol and flavonoid contents were observed in April. Considering their greater consumption value, whole flowers were more suitable than petals alone. Furthermore, considerable sensory and nutritional differences were observed in dried roses. Different drying methods increased their total phenol content of roses by 4.2-5.4 times and the antioxidant capacity by 2.9 times. Metabolomics revealed the altered contents of flavonoids, anthocyanins, lipids, amino acids, and saccharides. This study provides baseline data for the potential of roses as a natural source of antioxidants in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Insights into the panorama of multiple DNA viruses in municipal wastewater and recycled sludge in Tianjin, China

Environmental viruses in wastewater and sludge are widely recognized for their roles in waterborne diseases. However, previous studies mainly focused on RNA viruses, and little is known about the diversity of DNA viral communities and their driving factors in municipal wastewater treatment environments. Herein, we conducted a pilot study to explore DNA virus profiles in municipal wastewater and recycled sludge by metagenomics method, and track their temporal changes in northern China. Results showed that 467 viral species were co-shared among all the samples. We identified six families of human viruses with a prevalence of 0.1%, which were rare but relatively stable in wastewater and sludge for six months. Adenoviridae, Parvoviridae, and Herpersviridae were the most dominant human viral families in municipal wastewater and recycled sludge. A time series of samples revealed that the dynamic changes of human DNA viruses were stable based on qPCR results, particularly for high-risk fecal-oral transmission viruses of adenovirus, bocavirus, polyomavirus, human gamma herpesvirus, human papillomavirus, and hepatitis B virus. Concentrations of Adenovirus (5.39-7.48 log10 copies/L) and bocavirus (4.36-7.48 log10 copies/L) were observed to be the highest in these samples compared to other viruses. Our findings demonstrated the DNA viruses' high prevalence and persistence in municipal wastewater treatment environments, highlighting the value of enhancing public health responses based on wastewater-based epidemiology.

Linking microbial community coalescence to ecological diversity, community assembly and species coexistence in a typical subhumid river catchment in northern China

Community coalescence denotes the amalgamation of biotic and abiotic factors across multiple intact ecological communities. Despite the growing attention given to the phenomenon of coalescence, there remains limited investigation into community coalescence in single and multiple source habitats and its impact on microbial community assemblages in sinks. This study focused on a major river catchment in northern China. We investigated microbial community coalescence across different habitats (i.e., water, sediment, biofilm, and riparian soil) and seasons (i.e., summer and winter). Using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequence variants, we examined the relationship between community coalescence and microbial diversity, assembly processes, and species coexistence. The results showed that the intensity of microbial community coalescence was higher in the same habitat pairs compared to disparate habitat pairs in both summer and winter. During the occurrence of microbial community coalescence, the assembly processes regulated the intensity of coalescence. When the microbial community exhibited strong heterogeneous selection (heterogeneous environmental conditions leading to more dissimilar community structures), the intensity of community coalescence was low. With the assembly process shifted towards stochasticity, coalescence intensity increased gradually. However, when homogeneous selection (homogeneous environmental conditions leading to more similar community structures) predominantly shaped microbial communities, coalescence intensity exceeded the threshold of 0.25-0.30. Moreover, the enhanced intensity of community coalescence could increase the complexity of microbial networks, thereby enhancing species coexistence. Furthermore, the assembly processes mediated the relationship between community coalescence and species coexistence, underscoring the pivotal role of intermediate intensity of community coalescence in maintaining efficient species coexistence. In conclusion, this study highlights the crucial role of community coalescence originating from single and multiple source habitats in shaping microbial communities in sinks, thus emphasizing its central importance in watershed ecosystems.

Revealing quality chemicals of Tetrastigma hemsleyanum roots in different geographical origins using untargeted metabolomics and random-forest based spectrum-effect analysis

Tetrastigma hemsleyanum root is a popular functional food in China, and the price varies based on the origin of the product. The link between the origin, metabolic profile, and bioactivity of T. hemsleyanum must be investigated. This study compares the metabolic profiles of 254 samples collected from eight different areas with 49 potential key chemical markers using plant metabolomics. The metabolic pathways of the five critical flavonoid metabolites were annotated and enriched using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway. Moreover, a random forest model aiding the spectrum-effect relationship analysis was developed for the first time indicating catechin and darendoside B as potential quality markers of antioxidant activity. The findings of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the chemical composition and bioactive compounds of T. hemsleyanum as well as valuable information on the evaluation of the quality of various samples and products in the market.

Carbon budget of diversified cropping systems in southwestern China: Revealing key crop categories and influencing factors under different classifications

Cropping systems are considered the largest source of agricultural GHG emissions. Identifying key categories and factors affecting cropping systems is essential for reducing these emissions. Most studies have focused on the carbon budget of cropping systems from the perspective of a single crop or crop category. Comprehensive studies quantifying the carbon budget of diversified cropping systems, including farmland and garden crops, are still limited. This study aims to fill this gap by quantifying the carbon budget of diversified cropping systems, clarifying their carbon attributes, and identifying key crop categories and influencing factors within different classifications of the system. This study analyzed the carbon budget of a diversified cropping system consisting of 19 crops in Yunnan Province, southwestern China, using a crop-based net greenhouse gas balance methodology based on the "cradle-to-farm" life cycle idea. Crops were categorized into three levels of categories to assess the potential impact of categorization within the cropping system on its carbon balance. Results showed that Yunnan's diversified cropping system is a significant carbon sink, with net sequestration of 33.1 Mt CO2 eq, total emissions of 37.4 Mt CO2 eq, and total sequestration of 70.5 Mt CO2 eq. Cereals, vegetables, and hobby crops were the main contributors to carbon emissions, accounting for 41.61%, 21.87%, and 15.37%, respectively. Cereal crops also made the largest contribution to carbon sequestration at 53.18%. Bananas had the highest emissions per unit area (11.45 t CO2 eq ha-1), while walnuts had the highest sequestration (20.64 t CO2 eq ha-1). In addition, this study highlights effective strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, such as reducing nitrogen fertilizer use, minimizing reactive nitrogen losses, and controlling methane emissions from rice fields. By elucidating the impact of carbon dynamics and crop categories, this study provides insights for sustainable agricultural practices and policies.

Inventorization and ecological risk assessment of tetrabromobisphenol A and hexabromocyclododecane in sediments from Guangdong coastal area of South China Sea

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) exhibit excellent flame retardant properties and are widely used in various industries. Among the common BFRs, tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDs) pose substantial ecological and human health risks due to their extensive application and long-range transport. This study established 131 sample collection sites along the coast of the South China Sea (SCS) in Guangdong Province to assess the concentration, distribution, inventory, and ecological risk of TBBPA and HBCDs in surface sediments. The concentrations of TBBPA in SCS sediments ranged from < limit of detection (LOD) to 80 μg/kg dry weight (dw), and those of HBCDs from < LOD to 18 μg/kg dw. The diastereoisomers of HBCDs (α-, β-, and γ-HBCD) in the sediment samples accounted for 36 %, 13 %, and 51 %, respectively. Human activities, particularly those associated with nearby electronic waste disassembly and textile and garment industries, considerably influenced the dispersion of TBBPA and HBCDs. The inventories of TBBPA and HBCDs in Guangdong Province's SCS were estimated to be 3.2 × 105 kg and 7.2 × 104 kg, respectively. The average risk quotient values ranged from <0.01 to 0.016, indicating a low to negligible environmental risk. This study provides deeper insights into the distribution and scientific significance of HBCDs and TBBPA in SCS sediment samples, elucidates the current state of BFR contamination, and offers recommendations for future research on environmental safety and human health in the region.

Limestone water mixing process and hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope fractionation response under mining action

North China type coalfield are gradually mining deep, and the mixing of groundwater is intensified. Hydrogen and oxygen isotopes are important elements for tracing groundwater movement. The fractionation response mechanism under mining conditions is not clear. In this paper, combined with numerical simulation, MixSIAR isotope mixing model and other methods, according to the δD, δ18O and hydrochemical information of various water bodies, the impact of coal mining on hydrogen and oxygen isotope fractionation is analyzed from multiple perspectives. The results show that summer soil water is the main source of recharge for limestone water, accounting for 30.7%-41.5%, and the Zhan River is the main source of recharge for limestone water. Before groundwater recharge, evaporation leads to the increase of δ18O in surface water by 0.31‰-5.58‰, water loss by 1.81%-28.00%, the increase of δ18O in soil water by 0.47‰-6.33‰, and water loss by 2.74%-35.80%. Compared with the coal mining layer, the degree of hydrogen and oxygen isotope drift and water-rock interaction in the coal mine stopping layer are significantly improved. The results of numerical simulation show that the pumping activity reduces the 18O concentration in the mining layer. The ion ratio is used as a new variable to eliminate the influence of water-rock interaction when calculating the mixing ratio. The results show that the limestone water is in a state of receiving external recharge, and mixing effect increases the δ18O in limestone water by 0.86‰ on average, and the δD increases by 0.72‰ on average. The research results explain the controlled process of hydrogen and oxygen isotope fractionation under mining conditions, which is of great significance to coal mine safety production.

Different drought recovery strategy between Larix spp. and Quercus mongolica in temperate forests

Forests are experiencing increasingly severe drought stress worldwide. Although most studies have quantified how tree growth was affected by extreme droughts, how trees recover from different drought intensities are still poorly understood for different species. We used a network of tree-ring data comprising 731 Quercus mongolica trees across 29 sites, 312 Larix olgensis Henry trees from 13 sites, and 818 Larix principis-rupprechtii trees from 34 sites, covering most of their distribution range in northern China, to compare the influences of drought intensity on post-drought recovery. The results showed that summer droughts had strong negative influences on tree growth. Post-drought growth varied with drought intensity for the three species. Larix species exhibited strong legacy effects after severe droughts, which is related to the lack of compensatory growth. In contrast, the compensatory growth of Q. mongolica reduced drought legacy effect. However, the compensatory growth of Q. mongolica gradually weaken with increasing drought intensity and disappeared during severe drought. Our findings indicated that influence of drought on Q. mongolica growth mainly shown in drought years, but Larix species suffered from long-term drought legacy effects, implying Q. mongolica rapidly recovered from droughts but Larix species need several years to recover from droughts, thus the two genera have different recovery strategy.