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Abstract The soil-borne fungus Verticillium dahliae, the most notorious plant pathogen of the Verticillium genus, causes vascular wilts in a wide variety of economically important crops. The molecular mechanism of V. dahliae pathogenesis remains largely elusive. Here, we identify a small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO)-specific protease (VdUlpB) from V. dahliae, and find that VdUlpB facilitates V. dahliae virulence by deconjugating SUMO from V. dahliae enolase (VdEno). We identify five lysine residues (K96, K254, K259, K313 and K434) that mediate VdEno SUMOylation, and SUMOylated VdEno preferentially localized in nucleus where it functions as a transcription repressor to inhibit the expression of an effector VdSCP8. Importantly, VdUlpB mediates deSUMOylation of VdEno facilitates its cytoplasmic distribution, which allows it to function as a glycolytic enzyme. Our study reveals a sophisticated pathogenic mechanism of VdUlpB-mediated enolase deSUMOylation, which fortifies glycolytic pathway for growth and contributes to V. dahliae virulence through derepressing the expression of an effector.

Wolfberry, also known as goji berry or Lycium barbarum, is a highly valued fruit with significant health benefits and nutritional value. For more efficient and comprehensive usage of published L. barbarum genomic data, we established the Wolfberry database. The utility of the Wolfberry Genome Database (WGDB) is highlighted through the Genome browser, which enables the user to explore the L. barbarum genome, browse specific chromosomes, and access gene sequences. Gene annotation features provide comprehensive information about gene functions, locations, expression profiles, pathway involvement, protein domains, and regulatory transcription factors. The transcriptome feature allows the user to explore gene expression patterns using transcripts per kilobase million (TPM) and fragments per kilobase per million mapped reads (FPKM) metrics. The Metabolism pathway page provides insights into metabolic pathways and the involvement of the selected genes. In addition to the database content, we also introduce six analysis tools developed for the WGDB. These tools offer functionalities for gene function prediction, nucleotide and amino acid BLAST analysis, protein domain analysis, GO annotation, and gene expression pattern analysis. The WGDB is freely accessible at https://cosbi7.ee.ncku.edu.tw/Wolfberry/. Overall, WGDB serves as a valuable resource for researchers interested in the genomics and transcriptomics of L. barbarum. Its user-friendly web interface and comprehensive data facilitate the exploration of gene functions, regulatory mechanisms, and metabolic pathways, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of wolfberry and its potential applications in agronomy and nutrition.

Ultralight Mg–14Li–1Al alloy sheets were subjected to conventional friction stir welding (FSW) and rapid cooling FSW (RCFSW) for comparative study. Compared with decreasing the rotation rate, the use of coolant significantly improved the thermal cycle and inhibited the grain coarsening. The RCFSW600 joint had an ultrafine grain structure with its average grain size of 2.1 μm. The yield strength was mainly determined by the synergic influences of grain boundaries, dislocations, and nanoscale MgLiAl2 precipitations. The ultimate tensile strength was 181 MPa and the welding efficiency reached 94.3%. A relatively good fracture elongation of 9.6% was also obtained. Finally, the improved strength-ductility synergy was regarded as the interaction among dislocations, deformation twins, and stacking faults.

The soil-borne necrotrophic fungus Rhizoctonia solani is one of destructive fungi causing severe yield losses in various important crops. However, the host defense mechanisms against the invasion of this pathogen are poorly understood. In this study, we employed an iTRAQ-based quantitative proteomic approach to investigate host proteins responsive to R. solani using the resistant rice cultivar YSBR1. As a whole, we identified 319 differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) after inoculation of rice plants with R. solani. Functional categorization analysis indicates that these DAPs cover a broad range of functions. Notably, a substantial portion of the DAPs are involved in cell redox homeostasis, carbohydrate metabolism, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, or belong to pathogenesis-related proteins, indicating that these processes/proteins play important roles in host defense against R. solani. Interestingly, all of the DAPs involved in photosynthesis and chlorophyll biosynthetic processes, and part of the DAPs involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, show reduced accumulation after R. solani infection, suggesting that R. solani probably inhibits host photosynthetic system and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis to facilitate infection and colonization. In conclusion, our results provide both valuable resources and new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying rice and R. solani interaction.

Genetic linkage maps are important for quantitative trait locus (QTL) and marker-assisted selection breeding. The wolfberry (Lycium spp.) is an important food and traditional medicine in China. However, few construction genetic linkage maps have been reported because of the lack of genomic and genetic resources. In this study, a population of 89 F1 seedings was derived from a cross between two heterozygous parents, L. chinense var. potaninii ‘BF-01’ (female) and L. barbarum var. auranticarpum ‘NH-01’ (male), in order to construct a genetic linkage map using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers based on the double pseudo-test cross mapping strategy. The resulting genetic map consisted of 165 markers (74 AFLPs and 91 SSRs) distributed across 12 linkage groups and spanned a total length of 557.6 cM with an average distance of 3.38 cM between adjacent markers. The 12 linkage groups contained 3 to 21 markers and ranged in length from 8.6 to 58.3 cM. Twenty-nine segregated markers distributed in the map were mainly located on LG4 and LG9 linkage groups at P

The failure mode of cement-augmented pedicle screw (CAPS) was different from common pedicle screw. No biomechanical study of this failure mode named as “reversed windshield-wiper effect” was reported. To investigate the mechanisms underlying this failure mode, a series of finite element models of CAPS and PS were modified on L4 osseous model. Nine models were created according to the cement volume at 0.5 mL interval (range: 1–5 mL). Pullout load and cranio-caudal loads were applied on the screws. Stress and instantaneous rotation center (IRC) of the vertebra were observed. Under cranio-caudal load, the stress concentrated on the screw tip and pedicle region. The maximal stress (MS) at the screw tip region was +2.143 MPa higher than pedicle region. With cement volume increasing, the maximal stress (MS) at the screw tip region decreased dramatically, while MS at pedicle region was not obviously affected. As dose increased to 1.5 mL, the MS at pedicle region became higher than screw tip region and the maximal stress difference was observed at 3.5 mL. IRC of the vertebra located at the facet joint region in PS model. While IRC in CAPS models shifted anteriorly closer to the vertebral body with the increasing of cement volume. Under axial pull-out load, the maximal stress (MS) of cancellous bone in CAPS models was 29.53–50.04% lower than that 2.228 MPa in PS model. MS in the screw-bone interface did not change significantly with cement volume increasing. Therefore, the possible mechanism is that anterior shift of IRC and the negative difference value of MS between screw tip and pedicle region due to cement augmentation, leading to the screw rotate around the cement-screw complex as the fulcrum point.

Cao, Li, et al. sequence 13 perennial woody plant species of Lycium, and specifically provide a draft assembly of L. ruthenicum and a chromosome-level assembly of L. barbarum, the wolfberry or Goji berry. From a phylogenetic tree the authors identify an ancient hexaploidization event, and report the evolution of gene families including fruit ripening, fruit coloration, polysaccharide synthesis and self-incompatibility within Solanaceae and the general biogeography of L. barbarum.

Abstract Background Brucellosis is a major public health issue in China, while its temporal and spatial distribution have not been studied in depth. This study aims to better understand the epidemiology of brucellosis in the mainland of China, by investigating the human, temporal and spatial distribution and clustering characteristics of the disease. Methods Human brucellosis data from the mainland of China between 2012 and 2016 were obtained from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention. The spatial autocorrelation analysis of ArcGIS10.6 and the spatial-temporal scanning analysis of SaTScan software were used to identify potential changes in the spatial and temporal distribution of human brucellosis in the mainland of China during the study period. Results A total of 244 348 human brucellosis cases were reported during the study period of 2012–2016. The average incidence of human brucellosis was higher in the 40–65 age group. The temporal clustering analysis showed that the high incidence of brucellosis occurred between March and July. The spatial clustering analysis showed that the location of brucellosis clustering in the mainland of China remained relatively fixed, mainly concentrated in most parts of northern China. The results of the spatial-temporal clustering analysis showed that Heilongjiang represents a primary clustering area, and the Tibet, Shanxi and Hubei provinces represent three secondary clustering areas. Conclusions Human brucellosis remains a widespread challenge, particularly in northern China. The clustering analysis highlights potential high-risk human groups, time frames and areas, which may require special plans and resources to monitor and control the disease.

Abstract Background Cannulated pedicle screw (CPS) augmented by polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) can achieve satisfactory clinical efficacy in the treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis with osteoporosis. However, accurate application of CPSs will help to avoid the difficulty of screw revision and reduce the incidence of PMMA-related complications. This study aimed to investigate the mid-term efficacy of CPS compared to unilateral and bilateral applications in this common lumbar degenerative disease. Methods May 2011 and May 2018, 50 patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis with osteoporosis who underwent posterior fixation and fusion using traditional pedicle screws or CPSs were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups based on the application: the unilateral PMMA-augmented CPS group (UC, n = 29) and the bilateral PMMA-augmented CPS group (BC, n = 21). Operation time, blood loss, average hospitalization time, PMMA leakage, and other complications were recorded. The visual analog scale (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) scores were used to evaluate symptom recovery. Radiographic results were compared for intervertebral fusion and screw loosening. Results There were no significant differences in the baseline data of the two groups. The VAS and ODI scores improved significantly after surgery (P < 0.05), with no significant differences between the groups (P > 0.05). The operation time and blood loss in the UC group were significantly lower than those in the BC group (P < 0.05). However, the loss of intervertebral disk height and Taillard index did not differ significantly between the groups. The rates of PMMA leakage in the UC and BC groups were 7.0% and 11.9%, respectively (P < 0.05). Bony fusion was achieved in all groups without screw loosening at the last follow-up. Only one patient experienced superficial infection in both groups, while cerebrospinal fluid leakage was observed in two patients in the BC group. Conclusions Unilateral application of PMMA-augmented CPS may provide adequate clinical safety and effectiveness in the surgical treatment of lumbar spondylolisthesis with osteoporosis.

Bidirectional trans-kingdom RNA silencing [or RNA interference (RNAi)] plays a key role in plant-pathogen interactions. It has been shown that plant hosts export specific endogenous miRNAs into pathogens to inhibit their virulence, whereas pathogens deliver small RNAs (sRNAs) into plant cells to disturb host immunity. Here, we report a trans-kingdom fungal sRNA retarding host plant floral transition by targeting a miRNA precursor. From Arabidopsis plants infected with Verticillium dahliae, a soil-borne hemibiotrophic pathogenic fungus that causes wilt diseases in a wide range of plant hosts, we obtained a number of possible trans-kingdom V. dahliae sRNAs (VdsRNAs) by sequencing AGO1-immunoprecipitated sRNAs. Among these, a 24-nt VdsRNA derived from V. dahliae rRNA, VdrsR-1, was shown to be an actual trans-kingdom VdsRNA that targets the miR157d precursor MIR157d, resulting in increased rather than reduced miR157d accumulation in V. dahliae-infected plants. Consistent with the miR157 family in the regulation of vegetative and floral transitions by targeting SPL genes in several plant species, we detected two SPL genes, SPL13A/B, that were notably reduced in V. dahliae-infected and VdrsR-1-expressing plants compared with control plants. Furthermore, V. dahliae-infected and VdrsR-1-expressing plants also displayed delayed vegetative phase change and floral transition compared to control plants. Taken together, we disclosed a novel mode of action for a trans-kingdom fungal sRNA, VdrsR-1, which was secreted into host cells to modulate plant floral transition by employing the miR157d/SPL13A/B regulatory module, leading to prolonged host vegetative growth that would undoubtedly benefit fungal propagation.

Abstract Background Salmonella bongori infect mainly cold-blooded hosts, but infections by S. bongori in warm-blooded hosts have been reported. We hypothesized that S. bongori might have diverged into distinct phylogenetic lineages, with some being able to infect warm-blooded hosts. Results To inspect the divergence status of S. bongori, we first completely sequenced the parakeet isolate RKS3044 and compared it with other sequenced S. bongori strains. We found that RKS3044 contained a novel T6SS encoded in a pathogenicity island-like structure, in addition to a T6SS encoded in SPI-22, which is common to all S. bongori strains so far reported. This novel T6SS resembled the SPI-19 T6SS of the warm-blooded host infecting Salmonella Subgroup I lineages. Genomic sequence comparisons revealed different genomic sequence amelioration events among the S. bongori strains, including a unique CTAG tetranucleotide degeneration pattern in RKS3044, suggesting non-overlapping gene pools between RKS3044 and other S. bongori lineages/strains leading to their independent accumulation of genomic variations. We further proved the existence of a clear-cut genetic boundary between RKS3044 and the other S. bongori lineages/strains analyzed in this study. Conclusions The warm-blooded host-infecting S. bongori strain RKS3044 has diverged with distinct genomic features from other S. bongori strains, including a novel T6SS encoded in a previously not reported pathogenicity island-like structure and a unique genomic sequence degeneration pattern. These findings alert cautions about the emergence of new pathogens originating from non-pathogenic ancestors by acquiring specific pathogenic traits.

Abstract Control of various factors, including mineral components, primary productivity and redox level, on the total organic carbon (TOC) in the lower Cambrian black shale from southeastern margin of Upper Yangtze (Taozichong, Longbizui and Yanbei areas) is discussed in detail in this article. Mineral components in the study strata are dominated by quartz and clay minerals. Quartz in the Niutitang Formation is mainly of biogenic origin, and the content is in positive correlation with TOC, while the content of clay minerals is negatively correlated with TOC. Primary productivity, represented by the content of Mobio (biogenic molybdenum), Babio (biogenic barium) and phosphorus, is positively correlated with TOC. The main alkanes in studied samples are nC18–nC25, and odd–even priority values are closed to 1 (0.73–1.13), which suggest the organic matter source was marine plankton. Element content ratios of U/Th and Ni/Co and compound ratio Pr/Ph indicate dysoxic–anoxic bottom water, with weak positive relative with TOC. In total, three main points can be drawn to explain the relationship between data and the factors affecting organic accumulation: (1) quartz-rich and clay-mineral-poor deep shelf–slope–basin environment was favorable for living organisms; (2) high productivity provided the material foundation for organic generation; (3) the redox conditions impact slightly on the content of organic matter under high productivity and dysoxic–anoxic condition.

Small RNAs (sRNAs, including small interfering RNAs [siRNAs] and micro RNAs [miRNAs]) are key mediators of RNA silencing (or RNA interference), which play important roles in plant development and response to biotic and abiotic stimulation. Verticillium wilt is a plant vascular disease caused by the soil-borne fungal pathogens, such as Verticillium dahliae. We previously reported that V. dahliae infection increased two plant endogenous miRNAs that were exported to fungal cell to silence virulence genes. To investigate plant sRNAs in genome-wide response to V. dahliae infection, in this study, we constructed two sRNA libraries from Arabidopsis roots with and without V. dahliae infection, respectively. In total, 31 conserved miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed during the early stage of infection with V. dahliae using sRNA sequencing. Among these, the expression levels of miR160, miR164, miR166, miR167, miR390 and miR156h were confirmed by northern blot. Reverse transcription quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction results showed that the induction of miRNAs (miR160, miR164, miR166 and miR167) upon V. dahliae infection downregulated the expression of their targeted genes (ARF10, NAC1, PHV and ARF6), respectively. In addition, we identified specific phased siRNAs generated from distinct regions of two libraries. Profiling of these miRNAs and sRNAs lay the foundation for further understanding and utilising the host-induced gene silencing strategy to control plant vascular pathogens.

We studied gas-exchange, chlorophyll pigments, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzymes, and biomass partitioning responses in seedlings of four wolfberry species (Lycium chinense Mill. var. potaninii (Pojark.) A. M. Lu, Lycium chinense Mill., Lycium barbarum L., and Lycium yunnanense Kuang & A. M. Lu) under four water supply regimes. In all four species, drought affected seedlings in terms of chlorophyll content, net photosynthesis rate (Pn), transpiration rate (E), and lipid peroxidation. Drought also increased some antioxidant enzyme activities, such as peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). Significant changes in dry biomass partitioning also occurred in response to water stress. In particular, dry biomass of leaves and fruits decreased significantly. L. chinense Mill. and L. barbarum L. possessed greater drought tolerance and exhibited superior antioxidant processing ability and other related physiological traits compared to the other two species. L. chinense Mill. was the most tolerant to all levels of drought. In contrast, L. yunnanense Kuang & A. M. Lu was more affected by water supply and had the lowest resistance to drought stress. These findings would provide some important information regarding genetic resources for future forest tree improvement in relation to drought tolerance.

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA)-related inflammation (CAA-RI) is a rare CAA variant characterized by acute or subacute encephalopathy, headache, epilepsy, or focal neurological deficits. Radiologically, CAA-RI presents with widespread white matter lesions on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in addition to the hemorrhagic imaging features of CAA. Previous studies have found that the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) ε4 allele and ε4/ε4 genotype were over-represented in CAA-RI. The role of the ApoE ε2 allele in CAA-RI, however, is largely unknown, partly due to the rarity of the ε2/ε2 genotype in the general population. The authors report the first case of CAA-RI with the rare ApoE ε2/ε2 genotype. The patient presented with mild clinical symptoms but striking neuroimaging abnormalities. The response to small-dose glucocorticoids was satisfactory. Because ApoE ε2 promotes amyloid β accumulation and fibrinoid necrosis in the cerebral vasculature, the ε2/ε2 genotype, similar to ε4/ε4, may also be a precipitating factor for CAA-RI. To clarify the role of ApoE ε2 in CAA-RI, studies with large sample sizes investigating whether ε2 is more common in patients with CAA-RI than in those with CAA only are warranted.

The microRNA family, miR-30, plays diverse roles in regulating key aspects of neoplastic transformation, metastasis, and clinical outcomes in different types of tumors. Accumulating evidence proves that miR-30 family is pivotal in the breast cancer development by controlling critical signaling pathways and relevant oncogenes. Here, we review the roles of miR-30 family members in the tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance of breast cancer, and their application to predict the prognosis of breast cancer patients. We think miR-30 family members would be promising biomarkers for breast cancer and may bring a novel insight in molecular targeted therapy of breast cancer.

Reactive stromal changes in prostate cancer (PCa) are likely involved in the emergence of castration-resistant PCa (CRPC). This study was designed to investigate stromal changes in patients with clinically advanced PCa and analyze their prognostic significance. Prostate needle biopsies obtained from 148 patients before castration therapy were analyzed by Masson trichrome staining and immunohistochemical analysis of vimentin and desmin. Reactive stroma grading was inversely correlated with Gleason score. Stroma grade (Masson stain 82.8% vs 45.6%, P < 0.001) and vimentin expression (P = 0.005) were significantly higher, and desmin expression (P = 0.004) significantly lower, in reactive stroma of tumors with a Gleason score of 6-7 than in adjacent peritumoral tissue. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a significant association between reactive stroma grade in tumors and the occurrence of CRPC in patients with a Gleason score of 6-7 (P = 0.009). Furthermore, patients with higher vimentin or lower desmin expression had a shorter disease-free period. In multivariate analysis, only vimentin expression was a significant predictor of tumor relapse (hazard ratio 1.78, 95% confidence interval 1.12-10.26, P = 0.012). These findings indicate that the intensity of reactive stroma is associated with castration responsiveness, especially in patients with a lower Gleason score where the abundant stroma component is most frequently found. High expression of vimentin in tumor stroma was independently associated with poor outcomes in patients with Gleason scores of 6-7, and may serve as a new prognostic marker in daily practice.

Using a transient plant system, it was previously found that the suppression of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) 2b protein relies on its double-strand (ds) RNA binding capacity, but it is independent of its interaction with ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins. Thus, the biological meaning of the 2b-AGO interaction in the context of virus infection remains elusive. In this study, we created infectious clones of CMV mutants that expressed the 2b functional domains of dsRNA or AGO binding and tested the effect of these CMV mutants on viral pathogenicity. We found that the mutant CMV2b(1-76) expressing the 2b dsRNA-binding domain exhibited the same virulence as wild-type CMV in infection with either wild-type Arabidopsis or rdr1/6 plants with RDR1- and RDR6-deficient mutations. However, remarkably reduced viral RNA levels and increased virus (v)siRNAs were detected in CMV2b(1-76)-infected Arabidopsis in comparison to CMV infection, which demonstrated that the 2b(1-76) deleted AGO-binding domain failed to suppress the RDR1/RDR6-dependent degradation of viral RNAs. The mutant CMV2b(8-111) expressing mutant 2b, in which the N-terminal 7 amino acid (aa) was deleted, exhibited slightly reduced virulence, but not viral RNA levels, in both wild-type and rdr1/6 plants, which indicated that 2b retained the AGO-binding activity acquired the counter-RDRs degradation of viral RNAs. The deletion of the N-terminal 7 aa of 2b affected virulence due to the reduced affinity for long dsRNA. The mutant CMV2b(18-111) expressing mutant 2b lacked the N-terminal 17 aa but retained its AGO-binding activity greatly reduced virulence and viral RNA level. Together with the instability of both 2b(18-111)-EGFP and RFP-AGO4 proteins when co-expressed in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves, our data demonstrates that the effect of 2b-AGO interaction on counter-RDRs antiviral defense required the presence of 2b dsRNA-binding activity. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the dsRNA-binding activity of the 2b was essential for virulence, whereas the 2b-AGO interaction was necessary for interference with RDR1/6-dependent antiviral silencing in Arabidopsis.

RNA silencing (or RNA interference, RNAi) plays direct roles in plant host defenses against viruses. Viruses encode suppressors of RNAi (VSRs) to counteract host antiviral defenses. The generation of transgenic plants expressing VSRs facilitates the understanding of the mechanisms of VSR-mediated interference with the endogenous silencing pathway. However, studying VSRs independent of other viral components simplifies the complex roles of VSRs during natural viral infection. While suppression of transgene silencing by the VSR 2b protein encoded by cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) requires 2b-small RNA (sRNA) binding activity, suppression of host antiviral defenses requires the binding activity of both sRNAs and AGOs proteins. This study, aimed to understand the functions of 2b in the context of CMV infection; thus, we performed genome-wide analyses of differential DNA methylation regions among wild-type CMV-infected, CMVΔ2b-infected, and 2b-transgenic Arabidopsis plants. These analyses, together with transcriptome sequencing and RT-qPCR analyses, show that while the majority of induced genes in 2b-transgenic plants were involved in extensive metabolic pathways, CMV-infection 2b-dependent induced genes were enriched in plant immunity pathways, including salicylic acid (SA) signaling. Together with infection with CMV mutants that expressed the 2b functional domains of sRNA or AGO binding, our data demonstrate that CMV-accelerated SA signaling depends on 2b-sRNA binding activity which is also responsible for virulence.

Chemo-resistance is the leading cause of failure in cancer therapy, however, much remains to be understood about the intrinsic mechanisms. In the present study, we discovered the novel miR-4443 that regulated malignancy of breast cancer both in vitro and in vivo.We examined the expression of miR-4443 in MDA-MB-231/S and MDA-MB-231 Epirubicin-resistant cell lines with 76 breast cancer formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues by real-time PCR. Also, we investigated the loss- and gain-functions of miR-4443 by MTT assay and flow cytometry. Furthermore, we detected miR-4443 mediated tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 expression in cells by TargetScan, RT-qPCR and western blot.We identified the up-regulated expression of miR-4443 in Epi-resistant cell lines versus MDA-MB-231/S cell(Epi versus S) and in post-chemotherapy FFPE tissues, along with statistically differential expressions in PR(partial response) versus SD(stable disease)/PD(progressive disease) patients. Overexpression of miR-4443 increased the IC50 value of Epi for the target cells transfected, while inhibition of miR-4443 could restored sensitivity of the target cells to Epi. Besides, down-regulation of endogenous miR-4443 by miRNA-inhibitors significantly enhanced Epi-induced apoptosis while up-regulation of miR-4443 by miRNA-mimics lead to less Epi-induced apoptotic cells. Consequently, changes in TIMP2 mRNA and protein expression revealed that miR-4443 mimics suppressed expression of TIMP2 and induced migration in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, TIMP2 expression associated with better prognosis(HR = 0.721, 95%CI: 0.529-0.983).We revealed that miR-4443 induced malignancy of breast cancer mainly in chemo-resistance aspect for the very first time, providing a novel biomarker in breast cancer diagnosis and therapy.

Satellite RNAs (satRNAs) are small noncoding subviral RNA pathogens in plants that depend on helper viruses for replication and spread. Despite many decades of research, the origin of satRNAs remains unknown. In this study we show that a β-glucuronidase (GUS) transgene fused with a Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) Y satellite RNA (Y-Sat) sequence (35S-GUS:Sat) was transcriptionally repressed in N. tabacum in comparison to a 35S-GUS transgene that did not contain the Y-Sat sequence. This repression was not due to DNA methylation at the 35S promoter, but was associated with specific DNA methylation at the Y-Sat sequence. Both northern blot hybridization and small RNA deep sequencing detected 24-nt siRNAs in wild-type Nicotiana plants with sequence homology to Y-Sat, suggesting that the N. tabacum genome contains Y-Sat-like sequences that give rise to 24-nt sRNAs capable of guiding RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) to the Y-Sat sequence in the 35S-GUS:Sat transgene. Consistent with this, Southern blot hybridization detected multiple DNA bands in Nicotiana plants that had sequence homology to Y-Sat, suggesting that Y-Sat-like sequences exist in the Nicotiana genome as repetitive DNA, a DNA feature associated with 24-nt sRNAs. Our results point to a host genome origin for CMV satRNAs, and suggest novel approach of using small RNA sequences for finding the origin of other satRNAs.

Yield and nutrient acquisition advantages are frequently found in intercropping systems. However, there are few published reports on soil fertility in intercropping relative to monocultures. A field experiment was therefore established in 2009 in Gansu province, northwest China. The treatments comprised maize/faba bean, maize/soybean, maize/chickpea and maize/turnip intercropping, and their correspoding monocropping. In 2011 (the 3rd year) and 2012 (the 4th year) the yields and some soil chemical properties and enzyme activities were examined after all crop species were harvested or at later growth stages. Both grain yields and nutrient acquisition were significantly greater in all four intercropping systems than corresponding monocropping over two years. Generally, soil organic matter (OM) did not differ significantly from monocropping but did increase in maize/chickpea in 2012 and maize/turnip in both years. Soil total N (TN) did not differ between intercropping and monocropping in either year with the sole exception of maize/faba bean intercropping receiving 80 kg P ha-1 in 2011. Intercropping significantly reduced soil Olsen-P only in 2012, soil exchangeable K in both years, soil cation exchangeable capacity (CEC) in 2012, and soil pH in 2012. In the majority of cases soil enzyme activities did not differ across all the cropping systems at different P application rates compared to monocrops, with the exception of soil acid phosphatase activity which was higher in maize/legume intercropping than in the corresponding monocrops at 40 kg ha-1 P in 2011. P fertilization can alleviate the decline in soil Olsen-P and in soil CEC to some extent. In summary, intercropping enhanced productivity and maintained the majority of soil fertility properties for at least three to four years, especially at suitable P application rates. The results indicate that maize-based intercropping may be an efficient cropping system for sustainable agriculture with carefully managed fertilizer inputs.

Adriamycin and docetaxel are two agents commonly used in treatment of breast cancer, but their efficacy is often limited by the emergence of chemoresistance. Recent studies indicate that exosomes act as vehicles for exchange of genetic cargo between heterogeneous populations of tumor cells, engendering a transmitted drug resistance for cancer development and progression. However, the specific contribution of breast cancer-derived exosomes is poorly understood. Here we reinforced other's report that human breast cancer cell line MCF-7/S could acquire increased survival potential from its resistant variants MCF-7/Adr and MCF-7/Doc. Additionally, exosomes of the latter, A/exo and D/exo, significantly modulated the cell cycle distribution and drug-induced apoptosis with respect to S/exo. Exosomes pre-treated with RNase were unable to regulate cell cycle and apoptosis resistance, suggesting an RNA-dependent manner. Microarray and polymerase chain reaction for the miRNA expression profiles of A/exo, D/exo, and S/exo demonstrated that they loaded selective miRNA patterns. Following A/exo and D/exo transfer to recipient MCF-7/S, the same miRNAs were significantly increased in acquired cells. Target gene prediction and pathway analysis showed the involvement of miR-100, miR-222, and miR-30a in pathways implicated in cancer pathogenesis, membrane vesiculation and therapy failure. Furthermore, D/exo co-culture assays and miRNA mimics transfection experiments indicated that miR-222-rich D/exo could alter target gene expression in MCF-7/S. Our results suggest that drug-resistant breast cancer cells may spread resistance capacity to sensitive ones by releasing exosomes and that such effects could be partly attributed to the intercellular transfer of specific miRNAs.

The term RNA silencing (RNA interference, RNAi) describes a set of mechanisms that regulate gene expression in eukaryotes. Small interfering RNAs (siRNA) and microRNAs (miRNAs) are two major types of RNAi-associated small RNAs (smRNAs) found in most eukaryotic organisms. Despite the presence of a plethora of non-coding RNAs longer than 50-nucleotide (nt) in length in various species of Archaea, little is known about smRNAs in archaea that resemble the 20-24-nt long smRNAs found in eukaryotes, which have been implicated in the post-transcriptional control of gene expression. Here, we report the finding of a large number of smRNAs approximatelly 20-nt in length, including phased smRNAs and potential miRNAs, from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus p2 (Ssp2) based on deep sequencing. The expression of some of the miRNA candidates in Ssp2 was confirmed. Consistent with the Ssp2 hyperthermophilic properties, we found that higher temperatures more efficiently induced the production of the miRNA candidates in an in vitro system using the putative foldback precursor transcripts incubated with Ssp2 extract. Although we initially predicted putative target genes of some miRNA candidates, further analysis mapped the cleavage sites downstream of the miRNA candidate complementary regions, similar to those involved in plant miRNA-mediated TAS transcript cleavage. We also identified smRNAs from clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeat (CRISPR) loci, which play important roles in prokaryotic microbial defense systems. Archaea represent a unique life form next to Bacteria and Eukarya, and our results may provide a useful resource for further in-depth study on the regulation and evolution of smRNAs in this special organism.

The properties of the magnetic mold in magnetic mold casting directly determine the quality of the final cast parts. In this study, the magnetic mold properties in magnetic mold casting, were studied utilizing a coupled electromagnetic-structural method through numerical simulation. This study investigated key factors including equivalent stress, the distribution of tensile and compressive stresses, and the area ratio of tensile stress. It compared molds made entirely of magnetic materials with those made partially of magnetic materials. Simulation results indicate that as current increases from 4 A to 8 A, both the initial magnetic mold and the material-replaced magnetic mold initially show an increasing trend in equivalent stress, tensile-compressive stress, and the area ratio of tensile stress, peaking at 6 A before declining. After material replacement, the area ratio of tensile stress at 6 A decreases to 19.84%, representing a reduction of 29.72%. Magnetic molds comprising a combination of magnetic and non-magnetic materials exhibit sufficient strength and a reduced area ratio of tensile stress compared to those made entirely from magnetic materials. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing magnetic mold casting processes and offers practical guidance for advancing the application of magnetic molds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ordovician-Silurian Wufeng and Longmaxi Shale in the Sichuan Basin were studied to understand the genesis and diagenetic evolution of carbonate minerals and their effects on reservoir quality. The results of geochemical and petrological analyses show that calcite grains have a negative Ce anomaly indicating they formed in the oxidizing environment of seawater. The high carbonate mineral contents in the margin of basin indicate that calcite grains and cores of dolomite grains appear largely to be of detrital origin. The rhombic rims of dolomite grains and dolomite concretions with the δ13C of –15.46‰ and the enrichment of middle rare earth elements were formed during the sulfate-driven anaerobic oxidation of methane. The calcite in radiolarian were related to the microbial sulfate reduction for the abundant anhedral pyrites and δ13C value of –11.34‰. Calcite veins precipitated in the deep burial stage with homogenization temperature of the inclusions ranging from 146.70 °C to 182.90 °C. The pores in shale are mainly organic matter pores with pore size mainly in the range of 1–20 nm in diameter. Carbonate minerals influence the development of pores through offering storage space for organic matter. When calcite contents ranging from 10% to 20%, calcite grains and cement as rigid framework can preserve primary pores. Subsequently, the thermal cracking of liquid petroleum in primary pores will form organic matter pores. The radiolarian were mostly partially filled with calcite, which combining with microcrystalline quartz preserved a high storage capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Double-pass friction stir processing (2P-FSP) was performed on a 6-mm thick AZ31B magnesium alloy plate. Compared to single-pass FSP, the 2P-FSP led to more severe thermal deformation, causing the average grain size in the stir zone to increase, but the dynamic recrystallisation process was more complete. Tensile test results revealed that the yield strength of the 2P-FSP stir zone was improved. Schmid factor analysis showed that the basal slip of 2P-FSP was more difficult to activate. The extension twins formed during the tensile process interacted with the original dislocations, resulting in a better match of strength and ductility. In addition, the physical and mathematical models were established based on the dynamic recrystallisation mechanisms and mechanical property enhancement mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]