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The conservation biology field underscores the importance of understanding genetic diversity and gene flow within plant populations and the factors that influence them. This study employs Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) molecular markers to investigate the genetic diversity of the endangered plant species Saussurea involucrata, offering a theoretical foundation for its conservation efforts. Utilizing sequencing results to screen SSR loci, we designed and scrutinized 18 polymorphic microsatellite primers across 112 samples from 11 populations in the Bayinbuluke region. Our findings reveal high genetic diversity (I = 0.837, He = 0.470) and substantial gene flow (Nm = 1.390) among S. involucrata populations (China, Xinjiang), potentially attributed to efficient pollen and seed dispersal mechanisms. Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) indicates a lack of distinct genetic structuring within the Bayinbuluke populations. The cluster analysis using STRUCTURE reflected the genetic structure of S. involucrata to a certain extent compared with PCoA. The results showed that all samples were divided into four groups. To safeguard this species, we advocate for the in situ conservation of all S. involucrata populations in the area. The SSR markers developed in this study provide a valuable resource for future genetic research on S. involucrata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The breeding system and pollination ecology of Tamarix taklamakanensis, an endangered shrub occurring in sand dunes in the Taklamakan Desert, were examined by seven pollination treatments and observational studies in natural populations in 2019. The results showed that T. taklamakanensis exhibits an outcrossed breeding system that is dominated by insect‐pollination. It is largely self‐incompatible, with infrequent occurrence of anemophily, but relies strictly on pollinators in outcrossing. The pollen vitality could last about six days versus the stigma receptivity last about one day. Two effective pollinators were detected, and the peaks of visitation were 10:30–13:30, 16:30–17:30 and 18:30–19:30 h. Seed set by artificial cross‐pollination was significantly higher than natural pollination rates, and seed set for a population with high insect visitation rates was significantly higher than a population with low visitation rate, suggesting that pollen limitation is an important constraint on seed production for this species. Adverse weather conditions and habitat fragmentation were speculated to be the primary factors affecting the insect visitation of T. taklamakanensis in the Taklimakan Desert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the genetics of local adaptation in all main deserts of northwest China, whole genomes of 169 individuals were resequenced, which covers 20 populations of Zygophyllum loczyi (Zygophyllales: Zygophylaceae). We describe more than 15 million single nucleotide polymorphisms and numerous InDels. The expected heterozygosity and PIC values associated with local adaptation varied significantly across biogeographic regions. Variation in environmental factors contributes largely to the population genetic structure of Z. loczyi. Bayesian analysis performed with STRUCTURE defined four genetic clusters, while the results of principle component analysis were similar. Our results shows that the Qaidam Desert group appears to be diverging into two branches characterized by significant geographic separation and gene flow with two neighboring deserts. Geological data assume that it is possible that the Taklamakan Desert was the original distribution site, and Z. loczyi could have migrated later on and expanded within other desert areas. The above findings provide insights into the processes involved in biogeography, phylogeny, and differentiation within the northwest deserts of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rare and vulnerable endemic plants represent different evolutionary units that occur at different times, and protecting these species is a key issue in biological protection. Understanding the impact of the history of endangered plant populations on their genetic diversity helps to reveal evolutionary history and is crucial for guiding conservation efforts. Saussurea involucrata, a perennial alpine species mainly distributed in the Tianshan Mountains, is famous for its medicinal value but has become endangered due to over-exploitation. In the present study, we employed both nuclear and chloroplast DNA sequences to investigate the genetic distribution pattern and evolutionary history of S. involucrata. A total of 270 individuals covering nine S. involucrata populations were sampled for the amplification and sequencing of nrDNA Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) and chloroplast trnL-trnF, matK and ndhF-rpl32 sequences. Via calculation, we identified 7 nuclear and 12 plastid haplotypes. Among the nine populations, GL and BA were characterized by high haplotype diversity, whereas BG revealed the lowest haplotype diversity. Molecular dating estimations suggest that divergence among S. involucrata populations occurred around 0.75 Ma, coinciding with the uplift of Tianshan Mountains. Our results reveal that both isolation-by-distance (IBD) and isolation-by-resistance (IBR) have promoted genetic differentiation among populations of S. involucrata. The results from the ecological niche modeling analyses show a more suitable habitat for S. involucrata in the past than at present, indicating a historical distribution contraction of the species. This study provides new insight into understanding the genetic differentiation of S. involucrata, as well as the theoretical basis for conserving this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The common walnut (Juglans regia L.), a species of significant economic and ecological importance, along with its variant, holds developmental value. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers are used as an effective method for material identification due to their co-dominant inheritance. In this work, a total of 357629 SSR loci were searched based on previously published walnut genome sequences, with a density of 662.28 (SSRs/Mb). The majority of all these loci were found to be single nucleotide A/T (58.49%), followed by the dinucleotide AT (19.48%). Based on the results of genome-wide SSR site design, 22 effective primer pairs were designed and screened to analyze the genetic diversity of 48 wild walnut samples from three countries. Each locus had an average of 5.17 effective alleles (Ne), with an average polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.71, average heterozygosity (He) of 0.52, and average genetic differentiation index (Fst) of 0.09. The analysis of 48 wild walnut samples from three countries (Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and China) using the unweighted pairwise clustering method and arithmetic mean (UPGMA) along with principal coordinate analysis revealed the division of all samples into three groups. In summary, these novel SSR markers serve as a reference for the identification of wild walnut germplasm in Central Asia and for the development and utilization of wild walnut seed resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Munake grape is a local variety of grape that is widely distributed in Xinjiang, China. This study aims to clarify the genetic structure of the Munake grape population, characterize genetic differentiation and gene flow among populations, gather germplasm, and establish the core germplasm collection. In total, 144 samples were collected from eight geographic populations. Twenty-two SSR markers were used to characterize the genetic diversity as well as the genetic structure of Munake grape germplasm and to establish the core germplasm collection. At each site, the average number of effective alleles (Ne) was 5.019. Overall, genetic diversity was high in the various geographic populations of Munake grapes. Polymorphic information content (PIC) ranged from 0.501 to 0.908, with an average of 0.728. Estimates of genetic differentiation and gene flow indicated that the Artux population had significant genetic differences from the other populations. Screening results indicated that a sampling proportion of 95% of the sample was required to achieve 100% allelic coverage, or a sampling proportion of 65% for 95% allelic coverage. This analysis was based on conventional genetic diversity indicators, with a core germplasm diversity index of 95% coverage. Characterization of the genetic diversity of germplasm from 144 Munake grapes not only provides valuable resources for future genetic mapping and functional genome research, but also facilitates the utilization of core germplasm and molecular breeding of Munake grapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammopiptanthus possesses ancestral traits and, as a tertiary relict, is one of the surviving remnants of the ancient Mediterranean retreat and climate drought. It is also the only genus of super xerophytic, evergreen, broad-leaved shrubs. Ammopiptanthus nanus, one of the two species in this genus, is predominantly found in extremely arid and frigid environments, and is increasingly threatened with extinction. Study of the species' genetic diversity is thus beneficial for its survival and the efficacy of ex situ conservation efforts. Based on transcriptome data, 15 pairs of effective EST-SSR were screened to evaluate A. nanus genetic diversity. In all, 87 samples from three populations were evaluated, the results of which show that ex situ conservation in the Wuqia region needs to be supplemented. Conservation and breeding of individual A. nanus offspring should be strengthened in the future to ensure their progeny continue to exhibit high genetic diversity and variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tamarix L. is of great ecological and economic significance in arid desert ecosystems. This study reports the complete chloroplast (cp) genomic sequences of T. arceuthoides Bunge and T. ramosissima Ledeb., which are currently unknown, by high-throughput sequencing. The cp genomes of T. arceuthoides 1852 and T. ramosissima 1829 were 156,198 and 156,172 bp in length, respectively, and contained a small single-copy region (SSC: 18,247 bp), a large single-copy region (LSC: 84,795 and 84,890 bp, respectively), and a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs: 26,565 and 26,470 bp, respectively). The two cp genomes possessed 123 genes arranged in the same order, including 79 protein-coding, 36 tRNA, and eight rRNA genes. Of these, 11 protein-coding genes and seven tRNA genes contained at least one intron. The present study found that Tamarix and Myricaria are sister groups with the closest genetic relationship. The obtained knowledge could provide useful information for future phylogenetic, taxonomic, and evolutionary studies on Tamaricaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deciphering the internal composition of large-scale fault zone is a prerequisite for constructing conceptual models of fault zone architecture and is essential for a proper understanding of the seismological, mechanical and hydrological properties of fault zones. To this end, we conducted fine detection and interpretation of a large-scale fault (F31 fault) in the first Chinese underground research laboratory (URL) construction site for high-level radioactive waste geological disposal repository to elucidate the fault zone architecture. The fault, located in the west of the URL site, is an approximately 5.5-km scale steeply dipping normal fault extending continuously in a straight line. In this study, geophysical prospecting techniques including high-density electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and reflection seismic tomography (RST) were employed to investigate and interpret the subsurface architecture of the fault zone along the strike of fault core and perpendicular to fault core, respectively. In addition, a 4-m long three-dimensional prospecting trench was excavated manually to observe the geological structure characteristics of the fault zone. Geophysical exploration results suggested that the shallow surface within the fault zone, which is mainly characterized by low conductivity and low wave velocity transmission medium, shows complex geological characteristics due to severe weathering, while the relatively complete bedrock lies beneath the overburden layer. Along the fault strike, the bedrock is buried shallowly at the south of the fault zone. In contrast, at the north, it is mainly characterized by a thick weathering layer overlying the bedrock. For the detection results of vertical fault core, both geophysical methods have deciphered the location of the fault core and the spatial distribution characteristics of F31 fault zone. However, compared with RST results, ERT also clearly diagnosed that there is another secondary fault zone with a certain scale at the hanging wall of F31 fault. In terms of the F31 fault core, ERT suggested that the fault dips about 70° NW and the width of the fault core is 2 – 5 m, which is consistent with the results of the 280° ∠ 75° discontinuities and the approximately 2.6-m long fault core revealed by the prospecting trench. These results provide an important basis for further understanding the internal structure of faults in this site and the avoidance design of the fault-affected range for the underground engineering layout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Care dependence has been scarcely investigated in coronary heart disease patients after percutaneous coronary intervention. This study aimed to investigate the association between frailty, self‐efficacy, combined effects of frailty and self‐efficacy, mental health, and care dependence in coronary heart disease patients after percutaneous coronary intervention. Design: Cross‐sectional study. Methods: Data from 400 patients after percutaneous coronary intervention were collected from 2017–2020. Logistic regression model and mediating analysis were used to identify the association between frailty, self‐efficacy, combined effects of frailty and self‐efficacy, and care dependence. Results: Patients with frailty and self‐efficacy tended to have severe care dependence symptoms. There was no correlation between frailty symptoms, self‐efficacy, and care dependence in patients without symptoms of anxiety or depression. But in patients with anxiety or depression symptoms, there is a strong correlation between frailty symptoms, lower self‐efficacy, and care dependence. Mental health played an inhibitory effect on frailty and care dependence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastasis, a major challenge during the treatment of lung cancer, causes deterioration in patient health outcomes. Thus, to address this problem, this study aimed to explore the role and contribution of Cholesterol 25-Hydroxylase (CH25H) as a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker in lung cancer. Online public databases were used to analyze the expression level, prognostic value, gene-pathway enrichment, and immune infiltration of CH25H in lung cancer patients. The Real-Time Quantitative Reverse Transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to analyze and detect the CH25H expression levels in leukocytes from lung cancer patients. The expression level of CH25H was significantly reduced in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), which is associated with a higher disease stage, but not in lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis indicated that LUAD patients with low CH25H expression had a worse prognosis. Mechanistically, our results showed that in LUAD, CH25H may be a regulatory factor affecting the immune cell infiltration level, and the resultant tumor development. Experimental data showed that low expression of CH25H in leukocytes was significantly associated with LUAD metastasis (P < 0.01). Our study suggests that CH25H may function as a prognostic and risk stratification biomarker for LUAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the prognostic potential of AK021443 in non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC), AK021443 levels in NSCLC specimens were determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The correlation between the AK021443 level and pathological factors in NSCLC patients was analyzed. Kaplan–Meier curves were plotted for assessing the prognostic value of AK021443 in NSCLC patients. Potential factors influencing NSCLC prognosis were analyzed by multivariable Cox regression test. AK021443 was upregulated in NSCLC specimens than normal ones. Its level was correlated to histological type, tumor differentiation, TNM staging, and lymphatic metastasis in NSCLC patients. AK021443 was the independent risk factor for the overall survival of NSCLC. AK021443 is highly expressed in NSCLC specimens, which is correlated to histological type, tumor differentiation, TNM staging, and lymphatic metastasis in NSCLC patients. It is the independent prognostic factor for NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fractures play an important role in controlling the hydraulic conductivity of rock masses, and the aperture significantly influences the magnitude of fracture seepage. In this study, field measurements and experiments were conducted at a well-exposed granite fracture site in the Beishan area, China. Several types of single natural fractures were selected to remove the weathered surface and expose the fresh fractures. Subsequently, measuring ruler dispersion-tangent middle axis (MRD-TMA) method was developed to measure the fracture aperture and capture fracture geometry. Then, electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) technique was employed to investigate the seepage properties of these fractures. The results reveal that MRD-TMA method achieved good flexibility and accuracy in the current measurement of fracture aperture, and ERT is a useful tool for detecting the seepage properties of fractures in hard rock masses. Combined with field observations, the filling form of fractures can be categorized according to the ERT inversion results, as follows: open-weak filling, open filling, loose filling, and fully cemented-closed form, whose seepage properties decrease as the filling density increases. Generally, the open-weak filling is the main water channel in a fracture network, while the fully cemented-closed type is a water-blocking fracture and typically exhibits a pseudo-fracture with a large surface opening. In summary, the method for obtaining the morphological characteristics of the aperture can provide a low-cost and time-efficient approach for fracture logging in the field, and ERT technique provides a reference for the detection of potential hazards caused by connected water-conducting fractures in rock engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Micropapillary adenocarcinoma is one of the most aggressive histologic subtypes of lung adenocarcinoma (LADC), and even a minor proportion of micropapillary component (MPC) within the LADC could contribute to poor prognosis. Comprehensive analysis of genetic and immunological features of LADC with different percentages of MPC would help better understand cancer biology of this LADC subtype and direct future treatments. Methods: We performed next-generation sequencing (NGS) for a discovery cohort of 43 LADC patients whose tumors were micro-dissected to separate MPC and non-MPC lesions and a reference cohort of 113 LADC patients. MPC-enriched genetic alterations that were detected in the discovery cohort were then confirmed using a validation cohort of 183 LADC patients. Immunological staining was also conducted on the MPC-containing samples in the discovery cohort. Results: Tumors with a higher percentage of MPC tended to harbor more tumor mutation burdens (TMBs) and chromosome instability (CIN). Some rare genetic events may serve as the genetic landscape to drive micropapillary tumor progression. Specifically, alterations in transcription termination factor 1 (TTF1), brain-specific angiogenesis inhibitor 3 (BAI3), mammalian target of rapamycin (MTOR), and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 2A (CDKN2A) were cross-validated to be enriched in MPC-contained LADC. Additionally, tumors with a higher percentage of MPC were associated with a higher percentage of CD4+, CD8+, and PD-L1+ staining, and some genetic changes that were enriched in MPC, including MET amplification and MTOR mutation, were correlated with increased PD-L1 expression. Conclusion: We identified multiple novel MPC-enriched genetic changes that could help us understand the nature of this aggressive cancer subtype. High MPC tumors tended to have elevated levels of TMBs, T cell infiltration, and immunosuppression than low MPC tumors, implying the potential link between MPC content and sensitivity to immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lots of studies have shown that cyclin disorders can promote tumor development. This study aims to investigate the biological function and molecular mechanism of CCNB2 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Methods: LUAD data were downloaded from GEO database and TCGA-LUAD database. Differential analysis was conducted to find the differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs, while targeted prediction was done for the access of potential target mRNAs. Gene expression level was detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot in human LUAD cell lines A-427, A549, Calu-3, PC-9 and human bronchial epithelial cell line BEAS-2B. MTT, colony formation, Transwell and flow cytometry assays were used to detect cell proliferation, metastasis, and cell cycle changes of PC-9 cell line. The dual-luciferase reporter gene was used to detect the targeted binding relationship of the target miRNA and mRNA. Results: CCNB2 was highly expressed and served as a biomarker indicating poor prognosis in LUAD patients. Cell function experiments confirmed the inhibitory effects of silencing CCNB2 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of LUAD cells and cell cycle was blocked in the G0/G1 phase. In addition, with regard to the regulatory mechanism, we demonstrated that miR-335-5p had binding sites with 3ʹ-UTR of CCNB2, indicating that miR-335-5p could target the regulation expression of CCNB2. In subsequent cell function tests, overexpression of miR-335-5p inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells, and the rescue experiments also verified that miR-335-5p could reverse the promotion of CCNB2 overexpression on the progress of cancer cells. Conclusion: In summary, our results revealed that miR-335-5p could target the down-regulation of CCNB2 to inhibit the occurrence and development of LUAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platinum-based chemotherapy is recommended as the first-line treatment regimen for patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Lobaplatin (LBP), a third-generation platinum anti-neoplastic agent, has shown an improved efficacy. This study is aimed to investigate the mechanisms of LBP-induced apoptosis in the A549 p53 wild-type cell line. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay (CCK-8), flow cytometry (FCM), Western blot, xenograft tumor models, terminal deoxynucleotide transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), and RNA interference were used in this study. Our results showed that the proliferation of A549 cells could be inhibited by LBP. At lower concentrations, LBP triggered cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase in A549 cells. LBP could also induce apoptosis of A549 cells. LBP also increased the expression of PARP and Bax and the cleavage of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 and reduced Bcl-2 expression. In vivo experiment confirmed that LBP could inhibit tumor growth in the A549 xenograft models and induce apoptosis. Apoptosis of A549 cells was decreased after transfected with p53 shRNA or treated with reactive oxygen species inhibitor NAC and p38MAPK inhibitor SB203580, suggesting that the p53/ROS/p38MAPK pathway appeared to mediate the LBP-induced apoptosis of A549 cells. Our data demonstrate that LBP could be a promising candidate for the treatment of NSCLC with wild-type p53. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the smooth blasting method, the blasting parameters of the Beishan exploration tunnel have been designed. According to the principle of blasting parameters design, three kinds of cutting methods have been laid out, which are straight parallel hole cutting, single-wedge cutting, and double-wedge cutting. The other parameters such as the borehole number, the detonator segment, and the charge amount of each hole are also designed. Then, the blasting tests under different cutting methods were carried out in the field. The results show that all the three cutting methods can achieve good utilization ratio of blasting holes. The blasting effect of straight parallel hole cutting is good. The rock slag size of single-wedge and double-wedge cutting is uniform, which is beneficial to slag extraction. Moreover, the blasting vibration velocity and blasting energy have been analyzed. It is found that the energy distribution of single-wedge and double-wedge cutting is more uniform, mainly concentrated in the high-frequency part, while the energy of straight parallel hole cutting is more concentrated in the low-frequency part. Among many factors affecting blasting vibration velocity, besides the explosive quantity, it would also be easily influenced by the cutting way. It should be noticed that the blasting method includes numerous blasting parameters, which interact with each other. Those blasting parameters obtained were just limited to the cutting method, and the result and the theoretical knowledge could be applied to the blasting and excavation of the deep geoengineering and the HLW geo-disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the slit charge technology, the blasting progress and the blasting theory have been studied in detail. Combined with the high-level radioactive waste geological disposal, in which the excavation damaged zone of the surrounding rock is required as small as possible, the testing of the Beishan exploration tunnel (BET) has been studied, and the blasting parameters have been designed using the slit charge technology. Theoretically, the rock failure criterion has been proposed, which adopted the dynamic mechanical parameters, such as the dynamic compress strength, dynamic tensile strength, dynamic modulus, dynamic passion ratio, dynamic fracture toughness, and dynamic stress intensity factor. Furthermore, the blasting test has been carried out under the same tunnel face with left and right sides simultaneously, and it can be found that the blasting effect with the slit charge technology is better than another side, which verified the useful and scientific meaning of this technology. It should be noticed that the blasting method includes numerous blasting parameters, which interact with each other. Those blasting parameters obtained just limited the slit charge, and the result and the theoretical knowledge could be applied to the blasting and excavation of the deep geoengineering and HLW geodisposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) has previously been demonstrated to contribute to the mortality of lymphoma with various aggressive features. The prognostic role of the biomarkers latent membrane protein (LMP) 1 and microRNA‑(miR)‑155 in DLBCL remain controversial. The present study primarily aimed to assess the effect of LMP1 and miR‑155 on the survival of DLBCL patients, and additionally evaluate the clinical features to observe their influence on outcomes, compared with previous studies. Formalin‑fixed and paraffin‑embedded samples were collected from our center between May 2010 and December 2011. Microarray analysis, immunohistochemical analysis and reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction were used to evaluate the expression of LMP1 and miR‑155. The association between biomarkers or clinical features and patient outcomes was assessed using the log‑rank statistical test, Cox proportional hazard model and Kaplan‑Meier method. SPSS software was used to statistically analyze the data. A total of 82 patients were included in the present study. The results demonstrated that high expression of LMP1 and miR‑155 may be associated with a poor progression‑free survival rate, while a high International Prognostic Index score and high expression of LMP1 may be associated with a poor overall survival rate. These results indicated that LMP1 and miR‑155 may be novel and reliable biomarkers for the prognostic prediction of lymphoma, and will potentially be analyzed in the future to evaluate patient prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have confirmed that IL-6/GP130 targets are closely associated with tumor growth, metastasis and drug resistance. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is the most common chemotherapeutic agent for colon cancer but is limited due to chemoresistance and high cytotoxicity. Bazedoxifene (BZA), a third-generation selective estrogen receptor modulator, was discovered by multiple ligand simultaneous docking and drug repositioning approaches to have a novel function as an IL-6/GP130 target inhibitor. Thus, we speculated that in colon cancer, the anti-tumor efficacy of 5-FU might be increased in combination with IL-6/GP130 inhibitors. CCK8 assay and colony formation assay were used to detect the cell proliferation and colony formation. We measured the IC50 value of 5-FU alone and in combination with BZA by cell viability inhibition. Cell migration and invasion ability were tested by scratch migration assays and transwell invasion assays. Flow cytometric analysis for cell apoptosis and cell cycle. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to detect Bad, Bcl-2 and Ki-67 mRNA expression and western blotting (WB) assay analyzed protein expression of Bad/Bcl-2 signaling pathway. Further mechanism study, WB analysis detected the key proteins level in IL-6/GP130 targets and JAK/STAT3, Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. A colon cancer xenograft model was used to further confirm the efficacy of 5-FU and BZA in vivo. The GP130, P-STAT3, P-AKT, and P-ERK expression levels were detected by immunohistochemistry in the xenograft tumor. BZA markedly potentiates the anti-tumor function of 5-FU in vitro and in vivo. Conversely, 5-FU activation is reduced following exogenous IL-6 treatment in cells. Further mechanistic studies determined that BZA treatment enhanced 5-FU anti-tumor activation by inhibiting the IL-6/GP130 signaling pathway and the phosphorylation status of the downstream effectors AKT, ERK and STAT3. In contrast, IL-6 can attenuate 5-FU function via activating IL-6R/GP130 signaling and the P-AKT, P-ERK and P-STAT3 levels. This study firstly verifies that targeting IL-6/GP130 signaling can increase the anti-tumor function of 5-FU; in addition, this strategy can sensitize cancer cell drug sensitivity, implying that blocking IL-6/GP130 targets can reverse chemoresistance. Therefore, combining 5-FU and IL-6/GP130 target inhibitors may be a promising approach for cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saussurea involucrata (Asteraceae) is a medicinal and second-degree national priority endangered plant that is mainly distributed in the high latitude region of the western Tianshan Mountains. The population is fragmented and isolated, and extensive human impact merits a suitable and specific conservation strategy, which can be compiled based on the genetic diversity, population structure, and demographic history. Phylogeographic studies were conducted on a total of five natural populations and 150 individuals were sampled. Data from three cpDNA intergenic spacer regions ( trnL-F, matK, and ndhF- rpl32) and nrDNA ITS sequences showed that twelve haplotypes in cpDNA and five haplotypes in nrDNA indicated high genetic diversity among populations sampled ( H = 0.820 and 0.756) and within populations sampled ( H = 0.792 and 0.721). Additionally, the high genetic diversity did not mirror genetic structure in either cpDNA ( F = 0.03153, G > N , p < 0.05) or nrDNA ( F = 0.03666, meaningless G and N ). Two groups (north and south) were determined for a SAMOVA analysis. Based on this analysis, the demographic history was conducted with a Bayesian Skyline Plot and Isolation with Migration analysis, which showed sustainable and stable extension without a marked bottleneck. Divergence time was indicated at c. 6.25 Mya (90%HPD: 15.30-0.22 Mya) in the Miocene, which is consistent with the formation of the Kelasu section of Tianshan. The southern populations in the Bayanbulak and Gonglu regions require additional attention and transplanting would be an effective way to restore rare cpDNA haplotypes, increase effective population size, and migration rate. Our results suggested that in situ conservation of S. involucrata in western Tianshan should be the main strategy for protection and recovery of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular RNAs (circ RNAs) are associated with cancer progression and metastasis, although little is known about their role in lung adenocarcinoma ( LAC). In the present study, microarrays were first used to screen for tumour-specific circ RNA candidates in LAC tissue. Thirty-nine circ RNAs were found to be up-regulated and 20 were down-regulated (fold change > 2.0). Among them, hsa_circ_0013958 was further confirmed to be up-regulated in all of the LAC tissues, cells and plasma. In addition, hsa_circ_0013958 levels were associated with TNM stage ( P = 0.009) and lymphatic metastasis ( P = 0.006). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.815 (95% confidence interval = 0.727-0.903; P < 0.001). In addition, to further illustrate the bioactivities of hsa_circ_0013958 in LAC, si RNA-mediated inhibition of hsa_circ_0013958 was performed in vitro. The results showed that hsa_circ_0013958 promoted cell proliferation and invasion and inhibited cell apoptosis in LAC. Moreover, hsa_circ_0013958 was identified as a sponge of miR-134, and thus it up-regulated oncogenic cyclin D1, which plays a pivotal role in the development of non-small cell lung cancer. In conclusion, our results suggested that hsa_circ_0013958 could be used as a potential non-invasive biomarker for the early detection and screening of LAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Alyssum consists of about 195 species native to Europe, Asia and northern Africa. All species were assigned to six sections. Previous molecular phylogeny studies indicate that Alyssum is polyphyletic. However, the divergence time and dispersal of the genus are not well studied. In this study, the phylogenetic relationships within the genus Alyssum were studied with nrDNA ITS sequences obtained from five sections. The divergence time was estimated by fossil calibration and the biogeography was examined by spread analysis. The phylogeny indicated two main lineages: lineage 1 includes the section of Alyssum, Gamosepalum and Psilonema; lineage 2 includes the section of Odontarrhena, Meniocus and Clypeola. The phylogenetic relationship was not congruent with the previous sectional classifications. The age of Alyssum was dated to the upper Miocene. Molecular data suggested the diversification of Alyssum in Mediterranean areas and wide-ranging distribution such as North Africa, eastward into Central Asia and immigration into North America. Climatic aridification and arid/semiarid areas established in the Pliocene/Pleistocene could have provided favourable conditions for the migration and diversification of Alyssum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas drilling has been widely used due to its advantages of effective formation protection, lost circulation prevention, and high penetration rate. However in the actual gas drilling process, well deviation control difficulty has restricted the development of the technology. To study the effect of tapered drillstring assembly on gas drilling well deviation, based on the stress analysis of tapered drillstring assembly in gas drilling, the finite element mechanics model during the gas drilling operation was established, and its correctness was verified through theoretical calculations. Combined with actual drilling data of a gas well in Western Sichuan, the deviation control effect was researched about tapered drillstring assembly, and the influencing factors of well deviation were analyzed, showing that its ability would change with inclination and drilling pressure, and tapered drillstring assembly with air hammer was better than that with cone bit in deviation prevention, which provided theoretical guidance for deviation control research and field operation of tapered drillstring assembly during gas drilling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to investigate the effect of a single-chain fragment variable antibody of connective tissue growth factor (anti-CTGF scFv) against the differentiation of fibroblast into myofibroblast. The scFv antibody was firstly expressed in Escherichia coli cells and was then purified by affinity chromatography. The yield scFv protein reached a purity over 95% after purification. Immunoreactivity assay demonstrated that scFv possessed a special affinity toward CTGF. RT-PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence experiments showed that increased expression of α-smooth muscle actin induced by TGF-β1 could be suppressed by this scFv antibody through inhibiting the phosphorylation of Akt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Songliao Basin, the largest oil-producing basin in China, was the centre of late Mesozoic rifting and lithospheric thinning in northeastern China. However, the rifts are still poorly revealed due to a thick cover of subsidence successions. By structural interpretation and sequential restoration of cross-sections based on new 2D seismic data and well data, this study presents the structural style, basin evolution, and horizontal crustal extension of the central Songliao Basin. We have developed a novel method to retrieve the regional extension principal strains. The results enable an assignment of rifting into two episodes. The earlier episode (ca. 157–130 Ma) was dominated by distributed faulting of numerous planar normal faults trending NNE–SSW, NNW–SSE, or near NS, probably reflecting pre-existing basement fabrics; in contrast, the later episode (ca. 130–102 Ma) was controlled by localized extension along several major listric faults. Horizontal crustal extension during rifting is estimated to have been 11–28 km (10.6%–25.5%), with the long-term average rate varying from 0.20 to 0.51 mm yr–1. Regional horizontal strains show a gradual evolution from biaxial extension at the beginning of rifting to WNW–ESE uniaxial stretching during the later rifting episode. Brittle crustal extension is interpreted to have been associated with vertical strain due to tectonic stretching, which is estimated to have contributed more in thinning the lower crust than the mantle lithosphere. Accordingly, a two-episode dynamic model is proposed to explain rifting in the Songliao Basin. We suggest that the earlier event was dominated by delamination of the thickened continental lithosphere, whereas the later event was probably controlled by regional crustal detachment due to slab subduction and stagnancy of the Izanagi lithospheric plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three-dimensional (3-D) radiation distribution model in plant canopy is pivotal for understanding and modelling plant eco-physiological processes. Diffuse and direct radiations penetrate into plant canopies in different ways and may present different intensity and wavelength composition. Sunfleck (the canopy surfaces where the direct radiation reaches) distribution in the plant canopy is usually regarded as an important index for crop development, especially under dense canopy conditions. Distributions of direct and diffuse components of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in maize (Zea maysL.) canopies were estimated respectively using a 3-D incident radiation model (3DIRM). The 3DIRM model was set up for computing incident radiation in crop canopies by applying a parallel-projection based submodel for direct solar radiation and a central-projection based submodel for incident diffuse radiation simulation in crop canopy. It was well assessed with a field experiment with multi-point PAR measurement in maize canopies with relative errors of 2.6, 4.5 and 2.6%, respectively, for sunfleck area ratio, diffuse PAR and total PAR. The results suggest that the 3DIRM model could be used to estimate the direct, diffuse and total PAR at any specific surface part in the 3-D canopy space. The exponential distinction model for direct, diffuse and total PAR along with leaf area index in different heights in maize canopies was also evaluated based on the 3DIRM simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to the drilling tools failure statistics, fatigue failure of drill collar thread often occurs under a large weight on bit in gas drilling. So, this paper uses the multiaxial fatigue strength theory to study the drill collar's fatigue life. Pro/E software is applied to build a three-dimensional solid model of API drill collar thread and based on the model calculation results, the stress distribution of the API drill collar thread is analyzed. Then, according to the theory of multiaxial fatigue life, it is predicted that the fatigue life of the drill collar thread in gas drilling is about 2×105 times. The results provide a theoretical reference for identifying the fast failure mechanism of API drill collar thread in gas drilling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Circular RNA (circRNA), as a covalently closed circular RNA molecule, is widely present, which is recognized as a competing endogenous RNA. A large number of differentially expressed circRNAs have been identified and are recognized as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of tumors. Main body: CircRNAs play an important role in the regulation of cell signaling pathways. The main biological functions of circRNAs include acting as miRNA sponges, regulating the transcription of the parental genes, and acting as adapters to regulate the interactions between proteins and encoding proteins. Compared with normal tissues, there are differentially expressed circRNAs in lung cancer tissue, and the expression levels of circRNAs are correlated with clinicopathological features of lung cancer. Their roles in pathway regulation are described, and the diagnostic and prognostic values are further evaluated. Conclusion: In lung cancer, circRNAs participate in the proliferation, migration, and invasion, acting as a competitive endogenous RNA. Differentially expressed circRNAs may serve as non-invasive diagnostic markers for lung cancers. Further investigation of the roles of circRNAs in the pathogenesis and regulatory pathways is conducive to the development of novel approaches for the diagnosis and accurate treatment of lung cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]