Modelling the significance of value-belief-norm framework to predict mass adoption potentials of internet of things-enabled wearable fitness devices.

Self-health monitoring technologies have become increasingly popular in averting unanticipated health complications. However, the adoption rate of such technologies in developing countries is surprisingly low. Furthermore, empirical studies on the application of the value-belief-norm (VBN) model to elucidate intention to use IoT-enabled wearable fitness devices (IoT-enabled WFDs) are scarce. This study aimed to expand the VBN model by integrating health values, health consciousness, health knowledge-seeking, and social norms as influencing constructs. The proposed holistic framework was empirically tested to examine these constructs on users' decision-making process of adopting IoT-enabled WFDs. A web-based survey involving 866 adults in China aged 18-30 years was conducted. The gathered data were analysed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling. The results revealed the significant influence of health consciousness and health knowledge-seeking on personal health beliefs, as well as the favourable impact of personal health beliefs on personal norms and awareness of consequences. The results further demonstrated the substantial influence of awareness of consequences and ascription of responsibilities on personal norms. Besides that, personal norms and societal norms were found to have strong influence on the intention to adopt IoT-enabled WFDs, which was revealed to have significant influence on the actual usage. This study's findings offer novel theoretical insights on the behavioural characteristics of adopting IoT-enabled WFDs and serve as a practical guideline for industry experts and marketers to establish appropriate marketing strategies to support the IoT-enabled wearable sector. The findings also benefit policymakers in their efforts of developing strategies that emphasise the unique benefits of self-healthcare monitoring to encourage active lifestyle and decrease obesity and overweight-related health risks.

Kisspeptin/KISS1R Signaling Modulates Human Airway Smooth Muscle Cell Migration.

Airway remodeling is a cardinal feature of asthma, associated with increased airway smooth muscle (ASM) cell mass and upregulation of extracellular matrix deposition. Exaggerated ASM cell migration contributes to excessive ASM mass. Previously, we demonstrated the alleviating role of Kp (kisspeptin) receptor (KISS1R) activation by Kp-10 in mitogen (PDGF [platelet-derived growth factor])-induced human ASM cell proliferation in vitro and airway remodeling in vivo in a mouse model of asthma. Here, we examined the mechanisms by which KISS1R activation regulates mitogen-induced ASM cell migration. KISS1R activation using Kp-10 significantly inhibited PDGF-induced ASM cell migration, further confirmed using KISS1R shRNA. Furthermore, KISS1R activation modulated F/G actin dynamics and the expression of promigration proteins like CDC42 (cell division control protein 42) and cofilin. Mechanistically, we observed reduced ASM RhoA-GTPAse with KISS1R activation. The antimigratory effect of KISS1R was abolished by PKA (protein kinase A)-inhibitory peptide. Conversely, KISS1R activation significantly increased cAMP and phosphorylation of CREB (cAMP-response element binding protein) in PDGF-exposed ASM cells. Overall, these results highlight the alleviating properties of Kp-10 in the context of airway remodeling.

Downregulation of protein phosphatase 2Aα in asthmatic airway smooth muscle.

Airway smooth muscle cell (ASM) is renowned for its involvement in airway hyperresponsiveness through impaired ASM relaxation and bronchoconstriction in asthma, which poses a significant challenge in the field. Recent studies have explored different targets in ASM to alleviate airway hyperresponsiveness, however, a sizeable portion of patients with asthma still experience poor control. In our study, we explored protein phosphatase 2 A (PP2A) in ASM as it has been reported to regulate cellular contractility by controlling intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i), ion channels, and respective regulatory proteins. We obtained human ASM cells and lung tissues from healthy and patients with asthma and evaluated PP2A expression using RNA-Seq data, immunofluorescence, and immunoblotting. We further investigated the functional importance of PP2A by determining its role in bronchoconstriction using mouse bronchus and human ASM cell [Ca2+]i regulation. We found robust expression of PP2A isoforms in human ASM cells with PP2Aα being highly expressed. Interestingly, PP2Aα was significantly downregulated in asthmatic tissue and human ASM cells exposed to proinflammatory cytokines. Functionally, FTY720 (PP2A agonist) inhibited acetylcholine- or methacholine-induced bronchial contraction in mouse bronchus and further potentiated isoproterenol-induced bronchial relaxation. Mechanistically, FTY720 inhibited histamine-evoked [Ca2+]i response and myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation in the presence of interleukin-13 (IL-13) in human ASM cells. To conclude, we for the first time established PP2A signaling in ASM, which can be further explored to develop novel therapeutics to alleviate airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This novel study deciphered the expression and function of protein phosphatase 2Aα (PP2Aα) in airway smooth muscle (ASM) during asthma and/or inflammation. We showed robust expression of PP2Aα in human ASM while its downregulation in asthmatic ASM. Similarly, we demonstrated reduced PP2Aα expression in ASM exposed to proinflammatory cytokines. PP2Aα activation inhibited bronchoconstriction of isolated mouse bronchi. In addition, we unveiled that PP2Aα activation inhibits the intracellular calcium release and myosin light chain phosphorylation in human ASM.

Modelling the mass consumption potential of Plant Based Meat: Evidence from an emerging economy.

The rising demand for plant-based meat (PBM) has the potential to minimize environmental degradation and save the lives of numerous animals. Furthermore, the intention to consume eco-friendly products triggers people to consume PBM. However, it is essential to understand the factors that influence consumer intentions and actual PBM consumption to enhance its adoption. By incorporating the Theory of Consumption Value, this study examines the impact of health consciousness, health motivation, personal innovativeness, perceived critical mass, perceived cost, and perceived product value on the intention to consume PBM. The impact of intention to consume PBM on actual consumption is also analyzed. Furthermore, the mediating role of the intention to consume PBM in the relationship between these factors and actual consumption behavior is investigated. Using a cross-sectional research design, 978 responses were obtained from Indonesia. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The results showed that health motivation, perceived critical mass perceived cost, and perceived product value were significant predictors of the intention to consume PBM. However, health motivation and personal innovation had insignificant effects on the intention to consume PBM. Moreover, the intention to consume PBM translated into actual consumption behavior. Furthermore, the intention to consume PBM significantly mediated the relationship between actual consumption behavior and factors other than health motivation, personal innovation, and perceived product value. The findings offer valuable insights for industry, policymakers, and producers interested in PBMA markets in developing focused marketing strategies, improving consumer perceptions, and addressing barriers, such as perceived costs to promote PBM consumption, particularly in emerging markets. Integrating the theory of consumption value and PLS-SEM provides a comprehensive understanding of the underlying dynamics and sheds light on the unique factors driving PBM consumption behavior.

Electrospun PVDF/aromatic HBP of 4th gen based flexible and self-powered TENG for wearable energy harvesting and health monitoring.

In recent times, high-performance wearable electronic devices that can transform mechanical force into electrical energy for biomedical monitoring applications are receiving an increasing amount of attention. In the present study, we focused on a flexible, self-powered and wearable triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) based on electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/aromatic hyperbranched polyester of 4th generation (Ar.HBP-G4, 0-40 wt.-% w.r.t. PVDF content) blend nanoweb as tribo-negative layer and melt-blown thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) as tribo-positive layer for energy harvesting and human health monitoring applications. Among the varying Ar.HBP-G4 content used, incorporation of Ar.HBP-G4 (10 wt.-%) in PVDF (P-Ar.HBP-G4-10) showed higher increase in the triboelectric output voltage when compared to pristine PVDF and other Ar.HBP-G4 weight ratios. The optimized P-Ar.HBP-G4-10/TPU based TENG exhibited a peak-to-peak voltage (Vp-p) of 124.4 V under an applied load of 9.8 N and frequency 1 Hz which is superior to many other TENGs reported elsewhere. Higher triboelectric performance of P-Ar.HBP-G4 blend based TENG compared to that of neat PVDF is attributed to the effect of Ar.HBP-G4-10 in enhancing the degree of crystallinity and polar ß-crystalline phase content (98.3%) in PVDF. The ability of the TENG to power up portable electronic devices is demonstrated when it is powered for 750 s while connected through a capacitor and a rectifier, and the TENG was able to operate 45 light-emitting diodes directly. Evaluation of the triboelectric output of the TENG device attached to different parts of the human body reveal significantly better output voltage and sensitivity for human health monitoring. The results of this work pave a new way to develop TENG based on P-Ar.HBP-G4 nanowebs for sustainable energy generation and wearable healthcare monitoring systems.

Electrospun Rubber Nanofiber Web-Based Dry Electrodes for Biopotential Monitoring.

This study aims to find base materials for dry electrode fabrication with high accuracy and without reducing electrode performance for long-term bioelectric potential monitoring after electroless silver plating. Most applications of dry electrodes that have been developed in the past few decades are restricted by low accuracy compared to commercial Ag/AgCl gel electrodes, as in our previous study of PVDF-based dry electrodes. In a recent study, however, nanoweb-based chlorinated polyisoprene (CPI) and poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) (SBS) rubber were selected as promising candidates due to their excellent elastic properties, as well as their nanofibril nature, which may improve electrode durability and skin contact. The electroless silver plating technique was employed to coat the nanofiber web with silver, and silver nanoweb(AgNW)-based dry electrodes were fabricated. The key electrode properties (contact impedance, step response, and noise characteristics) for AgNW dry electrodes were investigated thoroughly using agar phantoms. The dry electrodes were subsequently tested on human subjects to establish their realistic performance in terms of ECG, EMG monitoring, and electrical impedance tomography (EIT) measurements. The experimental results demonstrated that the AgNW dry electrodes, particularly the SBS-AgNW dry electrodes, performed similarly to commercial Ag/AgCl gel electrodes and were outperformed in terms of long-term stability.

Exploring the views of infection consultants in England on a novel delinked funding model for antimicrobials: the SMASH study.

Objectives: A novel 'subscription-type' funding model was launched in England in July 2022 for ceftazidime/avibactam and cefiderocol. We explored the views of infection consultants on important aspects of the delinked antimicrobial funding model. Methods: An online survey was sent to all infection consultants in NHS acute hospitals in England. Results: The response rate was 31.2% (235/753). Most consultants agreed the model is a welcome development (69.8%, 164/235), will improve treatment of drug-resistant infections (68.5%, 161/235) and will stimulate research and development of new antimicrobials (57.9%, 136/235). Consultants disagreed that the model would lead to reduced carbapenem use and reported increased use of cefiderocol post-implementation. The presence of an antimicrobial pharmacy team, requirement for preauthorization by infection specialists, antimicrobial stewardship ward rounds and education of infection specialists were considered the most effective antimicrobial stewardship interventions. Under the new model, 42.1% (99/235) of consultants would use these antimicrobials empirically, if risk factors for antimicrobial resistance were present (previous infection, colonization, treatment failure with carbapenems, ward outbreak, recent admission to a high-prevalence setting).Significantly higher insurance and diversity values were given to model antimicrobials compared with established treatments for carbapenem-resistant infections, while meropenem recorded the highest enablement value. Use of both 'subscription-type' model drugs for a wide range of infection sites was reported. Respondents prioritized ceftazidime/avibactam for infections by bacteria producing OXA-48 and KPC and cefiderocol for those producing MBLs and infections with Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Acinetobacter spp. and Burkholderia cepacia. Conclusions: The 'subscription-type' model was viewed favourably by infection consultants in England.

Green human resource management, competitive advantages, and green ambidexterity: using partial least squares structural equation modeling and necessary condition analysis.

This study investigates the effect of green human resource management practices on green competitive advantage and the mediating role of competitive advantage between the green human resource management practices and green ambidexterity. This study also examined the effect of green competitive advantage on green ambidexterity and the moderating effect of firm size on green competitive advantage and ambidexterity. The results reveal that green recruitment and green training and involvement are not sufficient, but they are necessary for any outcome level of green competitive advantage. The other three constructs (green performance management and compensation, green intellectual capital, and green transformational leadership) are sufficient and necessary; however, green performance management and compensation is necessary only at an outcome level of more than or equal to 60%. The findings revealed that the mediating effect of green competitive advantage is significant only between three constructs (green performance management and compensation, green intellectual capital, and green transformational leadership) and green ambidexterity. The results also indicate that a green competitive advantage has a significant positive effect on green ambidexterity. Exploring the necessary and sufficient factors using a combination of partial least squares structural equation modeling and necessary condition analysis provides valuable guidance for practitioners to optimize firm outcomes.

Pancreastatin deteriorates hepatic lipid metabolism via elevating fetuin B in ovariectomized rats.

Hepatic steatosis is an important mstetabolic complication in women encountering postmenopausal phase of life. Pancreastatin (PST), has previously been investigated in diabetic and insulin resistant rodents. The present study highlighted the role of PST in ovariectomized rats. Female SD rats were ovariectomized and subsequently fed high fructose diet for 12 weeks. PST inhibitor peptide was intraperitoneally administered for 14 days and further examined for insulin resistance, glucose intolerance development, body mass composition, lipid profile detection and hepatic fibrosis. Gut microbial alterations has also been investigated. Results showed development of glucose intolerance in high fructose fed ovariectomized rats with reduced level of reproductive hormones including estradiol and progesterone. Enhanced lipid production was detected in these rats as they showed increased triglycerides, lipid accumulation in liver tissue (determined by HE staining, Oil Red O staining, Nile Red staining). Sirius Red and Masson's trichome analysis depicted positive results for fibrosis development. We also found gut microbiota alterations in fecal samples of these rats. Furthermore, PST inhibition decreased the expression of hepatic Fetuin B and resumed gut microbial diversity. PST deregulates hepatic lipid metabolism which leads to altered expression of Fetuin B in liver and gut dysbiosis in postmenopausal rats.

Fabrication of CuO-NP-Doped PVDF Composites Based Electrospun Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Wearable and Biomedical Applications.

A flexible and portable triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) based on electrospun polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) doped with copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles (NPs, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt.-% w.r.t. PVDF content) was fabricated. The structural and crystalline properties of the as-prepared PVDF-CuO composite membranes were characterized using SEM, FTIR, and XRD. To fabricate the TENG device, the PVDF-CuO was considered a tribo-negative film and the polyurethane (PU) a counter-positive film. The output voltage of the TENG was analyzed using a custom-made dynamic pressure setup, under a constant load of 1.0 kgf and 1.0 Hz frequency. The neat PVDF/PU showed only 1.7 V, which further increased up to 7.5 V when increasing the CuO contents from 2 to 8 wt.-%. A decrease in output voltage to 3.9 V was observed for 10 wt.-% CuO. Based on the above results, further measurements were carried out using the optimal sample (8 wt.-% CuO). Its output voltage performance was evaluated as a function of varying load (1 to 3 kgf) and frequency (0.1 to 1.0 Hz) conditions. Finally, the optimized device was demonstrated in real-time wearable sensor applications, such as human motion and health-monitoring applications (respiration and heart rate).

A Comprehensive Review on Processing, Development and Applications of Organofunctional Silanes and Silane-Based Hyperbranched Polymers.

Since the last decade, hyperbranched polymers (HBPs) have gained wider theoretical interest and practical applications in sensor technology due to their ease of synthesis, highly branched structure but dimensions within nanoscale, a larger number of modified terminal groups and lowering of viscosity in polymer blends even at higher HBP concentrations. Many researchers have reported the synthesis of HBPs using different organic-based core-shell moieties. Interestingly, silanes, as organic-inorganic hybrid modifiers of HBP, are of great interest as they resulted in a tremendous improvement in HBP properties like increasing thermal, mechanical and electrical properties compared to that of organic-only moieties. This review focuses on the research progress in organofunctional silanes, silane-based HBPs and their applications since the last decade. The effect of silane type, its bi-functional nature, its influence on the final HBP structure and the resultant properties are covered in detail. Methods to enhance the HBP properties and challenges that need to be overcome in the near future are also discussed.

Polyvinylidene Fluoride/Aromatic Hyperbranched Polyester of Third-Generation-Based Electrospun Nanofiber as a Self-Powered Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Wearable Energy Harvesting and Health Monitoring Applications.

Flexible pressure sensors have played an increasingly important role in the Internet of Things and human-machine interaction systems. For a sensor device to be commercially viable, it is essential to fabricate a sensor with higher sensitivity and lower power consumption. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)-based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) prepared by electrospinning are widely used in self-powered electronics owing to their exceptional voltage generation performance and flexible nature. In the present study, aromatic hyperbranched polyester of the third generation (Ar.HBP-3) was added into PVDF as a filler (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 wt.% w.r.t. PVDF content) to prepare nanofibers by electrospinning. The triboelectric performances (open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current) of PVDF-Ar.HBP-3/polyurethane (PU)-based TENG shows better performance than a PVDF/PU pair. Among the various wt.% of Ar.HBP-3, a 10 wt.% sample shows maximum output performances of 107 V which is almost 10 times that of neat PVDF (12 V); whereas, the current slightly increases from 0.5 µA to 1.3 µA. The self-powered TENG is also effective in measuring human motion. Overall, we have reported a simpler technique for producing high-performance TENG using morphological alteration of PVDF, which has the potential for use as mechanical energy harvesters and as effective power sources for wearable and portable electronic devices.

Assessment of the Specimen Size Effect on the Fracture Energy of Macro-Synthetic-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete.

The most frequently used construction material in buildings is concrete exhibiting a brittle behaviour. Adding fibers to concrete can improve its ductility and mechanical properties. To this end, a laboratory study was conducted to present an experimental model for the specimens' size effect of on macro-synthetic fiber-reinforced concrete using variations in fracture energy. Composite concrete beams with different thicknesses and widths were made and tested under mode I to obtain (1) fracture toughness, (2) fracture energy, and (3) critical stress intensity factor values. Results indicated that by increasing the thickness and the width, fracture toughness and fracture energy were enhanced. Moreover, increasing the thickness and width of the beam led to critical stress intensity factors enhancement respectively by 35.01-41.43% and 7.77-8.09%.

Hesperidin inhibits NOX4 mediated oxidative stress and inflammation by upregulating SIRT1 in experimental diabetic neuropathy.

Hesperidin possesses myriads of pharmacological benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Herein, we speculated that the described pharmacological benefits of hesperidin might be due to its potentiating action on SIRT1; thereby, inhibition of NOX4. We developed diabetic neuropathy in Sprague-Dawley rats by feeding them a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. We checked the effect of hesperidin on the level of oxidative stress, inflammatory markers, NOX4, and SIRT1 by biochemical analysis, histopathology, immunoblotting, immunocytochemistry, and real-time qPCR in HFD-fed rats and Palmitate encountered rat glial C6 cells. Hesperidin administration improved mechanical, thermal allodynia, and glucose homeostasis. There was a decrease in oxidative stress and inflammation and an enhanced level of antioxidant enzymes. Besides, the expression of NOX4 was down-regulated, while SIRT1 was upregulated. Interestingly, hesperidin treatment protected them from oxidative and inflammatory damage by upregulating SIRT1 and inhibiting NOX4 expression.

Evaluation of mutagenic, cytotoxic, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptotic activity, and acute toxicity of ethanolic extract of Cissus quadrangularis.

Recent studies have focused on exploring the efficacy of Cissus quadrangularis extract (EECQ) against various metabolic disorders involving the liver as the prime target organ, suggesting a considerable threat of hepatotoxicity in the person encountering it. Consequently, the current study was aimed to unravel the mutagenic, cytotoxic, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptotic activity in HepG2 cells, and acute toxicity of EECQ. MTT, SRB, trypan blue dye exclusion, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay were performed in HepG2 cell lines to determine the cytotoxicity of the extract. The mutagenic potential was determined by the Ames test using various strains of Salmonella typhimurium. Acute toxicity was done at a dose of 2000 mg/kg in Sprague Dawley rats. MTT and SRB cytotoxicity assays demonstrated dose-dependent cytotoxicity of extract. The three highest noncytotoxic doses from the above assay, investigated by trypan blue dye exclusion and LDH assay, did not reveal cytotoxicity. Besides, mitochondrial dysfunction was determined by measuring cellular and mitochondrial ROS, ATP, NAD, mitochondrial membrane potential, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, mitochondrial and cytoplasmic cytochrome c, and apoptosis-inducing factor, were found to be equivalent in both extract exposed and unexposed cells. Moreover, the apoptotic cell morphology and the expression of pro-apoptotic mRNAs and proteins were equivalent in both the group. In acute toxicity, EECQ in rats did not cause any significant change in body weight, liver index, and liver function test. All-encompassing, the present study unraveled that EECQ is not mutagenic, cytotoxic, nor apoptotic in human hepatic cells, as well as neither acute toxicity.

Burkitt's Lymphoma with an Unusual Cardiac Involvement: A Case Report.

Burkitt's lymphoma (BL), a variety of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, is uncommon in India. Cardiac involvement in sporadic BL is rare. Cardiac involvement may be primary or a part of a systemic disease process. It affects the endocardium, myocardium, or pericardium. Cardiac symptoms may or may not be present in the early clinical stages. We are presenting a case of sporadic BL in a 13-year-old child with cardiac and systemic involvement.

Amino-functionalized cross-linked cellulosic fabric with antibacterial, UV protection, and coloring effects using folic acid.

The amino-functionalized cellulose with folic acid, via an esterification reaction between carboxylic acid of folic acid and hydroxyl groups of cellulose, can develop multifunctional products with new chemical and physical properties. Folic acid contains two carboxylic groups as well as an amine group that can be used as a coupling agent and provide suitable conditions for coupling hydroxyl-based compounds to cellulose. Also; the multi-functionalized cellulose with folic acid has no effects on the physical and mechanical properties and also has benefits such as antibacterial, UV protection, and wrinkle resistance. The FTIR-ATR and Raman analysis confirmed the amino functionalized-cellulosic fabric via an esterification reaction between cellulose and folic acid. The cell viability of L929 fibroblast (NCBI C161) and MCF-7 (NCBI C135) cancer cells indicated more effectiveness on MCF-7 cancer cells. Therefore; folic acid can be used as a biocompatible natural cross-linker to modify cellulose fabrics for apparel and medical applications.

Cissus quadrangularis extract mitigates diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting RAAS activation, inflammation and oxidative stress.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is an age-related disease, and its progression is accompanied by hyperglycaemia, cardiac dysfunction, and myocardial structural and functional abnormalities. Cissus quadrangularis, a traditional medicinal plant, contains polyphenols, flavonoids, phytosterols, carbohydrates and ascorbic acid. It is used to treat osteoporosis, asthma, haemorrhoids and menstrual disorders.Objective: In the current research, we have investigated the effect of ethanolic extract of C. quadrangularis (EECQ) against a high-fat diet (HFD)/streptozotocin-induced DCM by estimating cardiac biomarkers, inflammatory markers and Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Rats were fed with an HFD for 12 weeks, followed by single-shot low-dose streptozotocin (35 mg/kg; i.p.). The treatment was performed by EECQ (200 mg/kg/day, orally) for six weeks. RESULTS: The extract EECQ improves glucose, insulin tolerance tests and hypercholesteremia. DCM is characterized by cardiac dysfunction, cardiac biomarkers CKMB and LDH, which were attenuated by the EECQ treatment. The hypertrophic biomarker ANP, BNP expression and cardiomyocyte surface area were decreased by EECQ. Moreover, EECQ also alleviated the biomarkers Angiotensin II and renin level. EECQ also reduced oxidative stress, ROS production and cardiac inflammation. CONCLUSIONS: Thus, these findings suggested that EECQ could be used as a possible therapeutic regiment to treat DCM.

Cissus quadrangularis ameliorates hyperglycaemia, hyperinsulinemia and hyperlipidaemia.Cissus quadrangularis mitigates cardiac dysfunction.Cissus quadrangularis decreases RAAS activation, thereby down-regulates ANP, BNP expression.Cissus quadrangularis alleviates ROS propagated oxidative stress and apoptosis.

CONSTANS Polymorphism Modulates Flowering Time and Maturity in Soybean.

CONSTANS (CO) plays a critical role in the photoperiodic flowering pathway. However, the function of soybean CO orthologs and the molecular mechanisms in regulating flowering remain largely unknown. This study characterized the natural variations in CO family genes and their association with flowering time and maturity in soybeans. A total of 21 soybean CO family genes (GmCOLs) were cloned and sequenced in 128 varieties covering 14 known maturity groups (MG 0000-MG X from earliest to latest maturity). Regarding the whole genomic region involving these genes, GmCOL1, GmCOL3, GmCOL8, GmCOL9, GmCOL10, and GmCOL13 were conserved, and the remaining 15 genes showed genetic variation that was brought about by mutation, namely, all single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions-deletions (InDels). In addition, a few genes showed some strong linkage disequilibrium. Point mutations were found in 15 GmCOL genes, which can lead to changes in the potential protein structure. Early flowering and maturation were related to eight genes (GmCOL1/3/4/8/13/15/16/19). For flowering and maturation, 11 genes (GmCOL2/5/6/14/20/22/23/24/25/26/28) expressed divergent physiognomy. Haplotype analysis indicated that the haplotypes of GmCOL5-Hap2, GmCOL13-Hap2/3, and GmCOL28-Hap2 were associated with flowering dates and soybean maturity. This study helps address the role of GmCOL family genes in adapting to diverse environments, particularly when it is necessary to regulate soybean flowering dates and maturity.