Contribution of sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase acid-like 3B to the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ovarian cancer cells

Background

Cancer has the highest mortality rate among gynecological cancers and poses a serious threat to women's lives. However, the treatment options for ovarian cancer are still limited, and exploring effective targeted biomarkers is particularly important for predicting and treating ovarian cancer. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the molecular mechanisms of the occurrence and development of ovarian cancer.

Methods

This investigation encompassed the analysis of gene expression profiles, measurement of transcription levels of potential target genes in peripheral blood samples from ovarian cancer patients and characterization of the ovarian cancer-related secretory protein sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase acid-like 3B (SMPDL3B). Through bioinformatics analysis, potential target genes were identified, and their association with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) in ovarian cancer patients was assessed utilizing relevant databases. Subsequently, differences in target gene expression in ovarian cancer tissue samples were validated through protein blotting and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-qPCR). Cell proliferation assays using the cell count kit-8 (CCK-8) method, as well as transwell chamber assay and pre coated matrix gel chamber assay were employed to elucidate the role of SMPDL3B in ovarian cancer cell migration and invasion.

Results

This study revealed a substantial upregulation of SMPDL3B in the serum of ovarian cancer patients, correlating with an unfavorable prognosis. High SMPDL3B expression was linked not only to increased proliferation of ovarian cancer cells, but also enhanced migration and invasion. Remarkably, the knockdown the human alkaline ceramidase 2 (ACER2) gene in cancer cells with heightened SMPDL3B expression significantly inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion induced by SMPDL3B activation (P<0.05), highlighting the functional interplay between ACER2 and SMPDL3B in ovarian cancer.

Conclusions

In summary, this study proposes SMPDL3B as a prognostic marker for ovarian cancer, with implications for potential therapeutic intervention targeting the ACER2-SMPDL3B axis.

The value of MRI in predicting hepatocellular carcinoma with cytokeratin 19 expression: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To evaluate the overall diagnostic performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), different image features, and different image analysis methods in predicting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with cytokeratin 19 (CK19) expression.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed to identify studies using MRI to predict HCC with CK19 expression between 2012 and 2023. Data were extracted to calculate the pooled sensitivity and specificity. Overall diagnostic performance was assessed using areas under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Subgroup analyses were conducted for specific image features and according to image analysis methods (traditional image feature, radiomics, and combined methods). Z-test statistics was used to analyse the differences in diagnostic performance between combined and individual methods.

RESULTS

Eleven studies with 14 datasets (1,278 lesions from 1,264 patients) were included. The overall pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC with corresponding 95% confidence intervals were estimated to be 0.72 (0.55, 0.85), 0.88 (0.80, 0.93), and 0.89 (0.86, 0.91) for MRI in predicting HCC with CK19 expression. Combined methods had higher sensitivity than image feature methods (0.86 versus 0.54, p=0.001), with no difference in specificity (0.85 versus 0.87, p=0.641). There were no significant differences between radiomics and combined methods regarding sensitivity (p=0.796) and specificity (p=0.535), respectively.

CONCLUSION

MRI shows moderate sensitivity and high specificity in identifying HCC with CK19 expression. The application of radiomics can improve the sensitivity of MRI in identifying HCC with CK19 expression.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Postpartum Depression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

We aimed to investigate the intervention effect of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in patients with postpartum depression.

Methods

The method of computer and manual keyword retrieval was used to search PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library. Literature included in the study was assessed for quality and meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

Twelve articles were finally included in the study and the meta-analysis showed that 6 articles used the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to compare MBIs with conventional therapy, and the statistical heterogeneity between the combined results was low (P=0.18, I2=32%). The level of depression in postpartum depression patients was lower in the MBIs group than in the conventional group [MD=3.13, 95%CI (2.57, 3.70), P<0.00001]. Based on the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the comparison between MBIs and conventional therapy had low statistical heterogeneity between the combined results (P=0.56, I2=0%). The level of depression in patients with postpartum depression who received MBIs was significantly lower than in the conventional care group [MD=5.89, 95%CI (4.88, 6.91), P<0.00001]. Subgroup analysis showed that the best intervention duration for MBIs for postpartum depression was within 4 weeks (SMD=-1.785), each session ≦60 minutes (SMD=-1.435), and participants had to complete the best three times per week (SMD=-2.185).

Conclusion

MBIs can alleviate depression in women, thereby facilitating their adjustment to new life. It is recommended to practice mindfulness meditation for 30 minutes per day.

Correlation between Lymph Node Regression Grading and Tumor Regression Grading after Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

This study aimed to determine the relationship between tumor regression grading (TRG) and lymph node regression grading (LRG) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).

MATERIALS/METHODS

The study was a retrospective analysis of the clinical data of LARC patients who underwent preoperative nCRT at one institution. A total of 101 rectal cancer patients who received nCRT and underwent total rectal mesenteric excision (TME) were included. Pathologists independently assessed the pathological response of the primary tumor and lymph nodes (LN) to nCRT using TRG and LRG, respectively. The highest LRG score for each patient was defined as LRGmax, and LRGsum was the overall tumor burden of all LNs in the specimen.

RESULTS

The study included 101 LARC patients who underwent nCRT and TME. The patient population consisted of 65 males and 36 females with an average age of 54.86 years (range 20-81 years), of which 68 were aged 60 years or younger and 33 were older than 60. The radiotherapy treatment plan consisted of 1.8-2Gy per dose, administered 5 times per week for a total dose of 45-50.4Gy, along with oral capecitabine chemotherapy (825 mg/m2, bid) on the day of radiation therapy. The chemotherapy treatment plan included XELOX, mFOLFOX6, and FOLFOX4. The cTNM stage of the tumor before surgery was cT2 in 2 cases, cT3 in 63 cases, and cT4 in 36 cases. Eight cases were cN0 and 93 were cN+. After surgery, the ypTNM stage was T0 in 19 cases, T1 in 4 cases, T2 in 27 cases, T3 in 45 cases, and T4 in 6 cases. The N stage was N0 in 76 cases, N1 in 20 cases, and N2 in 5 cases. TRG was 0 in 17 cases (16.8%), 1 in 15 cases (14.9%), 2 in 61 cases (60.4%), and 3 in 8 cases (7.9%). LRGmax scores were 0 in 66 cases (65.3%), 1 in 17 cases (16.8%), 2 in 5 cases (5.0%), 3 in 3 cases (3.0%), 4 in 5 cases (5.0%), and 5 in 5 cases (5.0%). LRGsum scores were ≤3 in 85 cases (84.2%), 4-9 in 11 cases (10.9%), and ≥10 in 5 cases (5.0%). Correlation analysis showed that LRGmax was significantly correlated with TRG, ypT, and ypN (P = 0.038, P = 0.015, P < 0.01), with correlation coefficients of 0.184, 0.212, and 0.626, respectively. There was no significant correlation between LRGmax and cT and cN+. Similarly, LRGsum was significantly correlated with TRG, ypT, and ypN (P = 0.022, P = 0.002, P < 0.01) with correlation coefficients of 0.212, 0.276, and 0.707, respectively. There was no significant correlation between LRGsum and cT and cN. The results of our study indicate a significant correlation between LRG and TRG (P = 0.022). Additionally, LRG was found to be positively correlated with the ypT and ypN stages of the primary tumor and lymph nodes post-surgery, with correlation coefficients of 0.276 and 0.707, respectively (P = 0.002 and P<0.01). No significant correlations were observed between LRG and cT and cN+ stages.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate a significant association between LRG and TRG, as well as a positive correlation between LRG and the ypT and ypN stages of the primary tumor and lymph nodes following surgery.

Evaluating the Effects of Bone Marrow Sparing Radiotherapy on Acute Hematologic Toxicity for Patients with Locoregionally Advanced Cervical Cancer: A Prospective Phase II Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Bone marrow sparing intensity modulated radiotherapy (BMS-IMRT) can reduce the incidence of acute hematologic toxicity (HT) for locoregionally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) patients receiving concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), but the norm has been controversial. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of bone marrow (BM) V40 <25% on decreasing the incidence of acute HT in a prospective clinical trial.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A total of 242 LACC patients were recruited from May 2021 to May 2022, who were evenly randomized into BMS-IMRT group and standard IMRT group according to a computer-generated random number list. All patients received pelvic irradiation with concurrent cisplatin (40 mg/m2 weekly), followed by brachytherapy. For patients in BMS-IMRT group, the outer contour of pelvic bone, lumbar spine and left and right femur heads were additionally delineated as a surrogate for BM, and V40 <25% was prescribed. Blood counts were tested weekly, of which nadirs during external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) were graded to assess acute HT as primary observation index. Second observation index were dosimetric parameters of EBRT plan from the dose volume histograms (DVHs). Binary logistic regression model and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used for predictive value analysis.

RESULTS

Baseline demographic, disease and treatment characteristics were all balanced between BMS-IMRT group and standard IMRT group. BMS-IMRT was associated with a lower incidence of grade ≥2 and grade ≥3 acute HT, leukopenia and neutropenia (72.70% vs 90.90%, P <0.001*; 16.50% vs 65.30%, P <0.001*; 66.10% vs 85.10%, P = 0.001*; 13.20% vs 54.50%, P <0.001*; 37.20% vs 66.10%, P <0.001*; 10.70% vs 43.80%, P <0.001*). Plan target volume (PTV) for all patients satisfied the clinical requirement of V(100%) ≥95%, and conformity and homogeneity were both comparable between 2 groups. BMS also decreased dose delivered to the organs at risk (OARs) including rectum, bladder and left and right femur head. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that BM V40 was an independent risk factor for grade ≥3 acute HT (odds ratio [OR] = 2.734, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.959-3.815, P <0.001*). Cutoff value was 25.036% and area under the curve (AUC) was 0.786. The nomogram was constructed, which was rigorously evaluated and internally cross-validated, showing good predictive performance.

CONCLUSION

BM V40 <25% can reduce the risks of acute HT for LACC patients receiving CCRT while the dose delivery of target volume and other normal tissues were not compromised. With great practicality and applicability, BM V40 <25% is a promising strategy, making BMS-IMRT widespread especially in the area where application of image guided radiotherapy (IGRT) such as 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18FDG-PET)/CT is not popularized. Chinese clinical trial registry (ChiCTR2200066485).

[Prevalence and trends of anemia among pregnant women in eight provinces of China from 2016 to 2020]

This study analyzed the anemia status and change trend of 219 835 pregnant women in eight provinces from 2016 to 2020 in the Maternal and Newborn Health Monitoring Program(MNHMP). The results showed that from 2016 to 2020, the anemia rate of pregnant women in eight provinces was 41.27%, and the rates of mild, moderate and severe anemia were 28.56%, 12.59% and 0.12% respectively; the anemia rates in eastern, central and western regions were 41.87%, 36.09% and 44.63% respectively, and the anemia rates in urban and rural areas were 39.87% and 42.23%. From 2016 to 2020, the anemia rate of pregnant women decreased from 44.93% to 38.22%, with an average annual decline of 3.86% (95%CI:-5.84%, -1.85%). The anemia rate among pregnant women of the eastern region (AAPC=-6.16%, 95%CI:-9.79%, -2.38%) fell faster than that among pregnant women of the central region (AAPC=0.71%, 95%CI:-6.59%, 8.57%) and western region (AAPC=-1.53%, 95%CI:-5.19%, 2.28%). From 2016 to 2020, the moderate anemia rate in pregnant women decreased from 14.98% to 10.74%, with an average annual decline of 8.72% (95%CI:-12.90%, -4.34%), with a statistically significant difference (P<0.05); AAPC for mild and severe anemia in pregnant women was 1.56% (95%CI: 3.44%, 0.36%) and 18.86% (95%CI: 39.88%, 9.52%), respectively, without statistically significant difference (P>0.05).

[Expert consensus on late stage of critical care management]

We wished to establish an expert consensus on late stage of critical care (CC) management. The panel comprised 13 experts in CC medicine. Each statement was assessed based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) principle. Then, the Delphi method was adopted by 17 experts to reassess the following 28 statements. (1) ESCAPE has evolved from a strategy of delirium management to a strategy of late stage of CC management. (2) The new version of ESCAPE is a strategy for optimizing treatment and comprehensive care of critically ill patients (CIPs) after the rescue period, including early mobilization, early rehabilitation, nutritional support, sleep management, mental assessment, cognitive-function training, emotional support, and optimizing sedation and analgesia. (3) Disease assessment to determine the starting point of early mobilization, early rehabilitation, and early enteral nutrition. (4) Early mobilization has synergistic effects upon the recovery of organ function. (5) Early functional exercise and rehabilitation are important means to promote CIP recovery, and gives them a sense of future prospects. (6) Timely start of enteral nutrition is conducive to early mobilization and early rehabilitation. (7) The spontaneous breathing test should be started as soon as possible, and a weaning plan should be selected step-by-step. (8) The waking process of CIPs should be realized in a planned and purposeful way. (9) Establishment of a sleep-wake rhythm is the key to sleep management in post-CC management. (10) The spontaneous awakening trial, spontaneous breathing trial, and sleep management should be carried out together. (11) The depth of sedation should be adjusted dynamically in the late stage of CC period. (12) Standardized sedation assessment is the premise of rational sedation. (13) Appropriate sedative drugs should be selected according to the objectives of sedation and drug characteristics. (14) A goal-directed minimization strategy for sedation should be implemented. (15) The principle of analgesia must be mastered first. (16) Subjective assessment is preferred for analgesia assessment. (17) Opioid-based analgesic strategies should be selected step-by-step according to the characteristics of different drugs. (18) There must be rational use of non-opioid analgesics and non-drug-based analgesic measures. (19) Pay attention to evaluation of the psychological status of CIPs. (20) Cognitive function in CIPs cannot be ignored. (21) Delirium management should be based on non-drug-based measures and rational use of drugs. (22) Reset treatment can be considered for severe delirium. (23) Psychological assessment should be conducted as early as possible to screen-out high-risk groups with post-traumatic stress disorder. (24) Emotional support, flexible visiting, and environment management are important components of humanistic management in the intensive care unit (ICU). (25) Emotional support from medical teams and families should be promoted through"ICU diaries"and other forms. (26) Environmental management should be carried out by enriching environmental content, limiting environmental interference, and optimizing the environmental atmosphere. (27) Reasonable promotion of flexible visitation should be done on the basis of prevention of nosocomial infection. (28) ESCAPE is an excellent project for late stage of CC management.

[Evaluation of clinical safety and diagnostic efficacy of domestic liver-specific magnetic resonance contrast agent (gadoxetate disodium)]

Objective: To evaluate the clinical safety and diagnostic efficacy of domestic gadoxetate disodium (GdEOBDTPA). Methods: The imaging data from patients with space-occupying liver lesions who underwent GdEOBDTPA enhanced magnetic resonance examination at West China Hospital of Sichuan University between January 2020 and September 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical indicators were evaluated by the incidental condition of transient severe respiratory motion artifacts (TSM) in the arterial phase to assess the safety profile.The differences in quantitative and qualitative indicators for the risk factors of TSM in the arterial phase between the TSM group and the non-TSM group were compared by t-test and χ2 test. Observational indicators of the accuracy of diagnostic procedures: The 2018 version of the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) was used to evaluate the main signs, auxiliary signs, and LR grades of lesions. Postoperative pathological findings were used as the gold standard for evaluating and diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Simultaneously, the relative enhancement degree of the liver, the contrast between the lesion and the liver, and the cholangiography in the hepatobiliary phase were evaluated. The McNemar test was used to compare the differences in the diagnostic efficiency of physician 1 and physician 2 in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma according to the 2018 version of LI-RADS. Results: A total of 114 cases were included in this study. The incidence rate of TSM was 9.6% (11/114). Age [(53.8 ± 11.3) years vs. (55.4 ± 15.4) years, t = 0.465, P = 0.497], body weight [(65.8 ± 11.1) kg vs. (60.8 ± 7.6) kg, t = 1.468, P = 0.228], body mass index [(23.9 ± 3.1) kg/m(2) vs. (23.4 ± 3.0) kg/m(2), t = 0.171, P = 0.680], liver cirrhosis ratio (39 cases vs. 4 cases, χ (2) =1.776, P = 0.183), proportion of mild to moderate pleural effusion (32 cases vs. 4 cases, χ (2) = 0.000, P = 0.986), and proportion of mild to moderate ascites (47 cases vs. 5 cases χ (2) = 0.000, P = 0.991) had no statistically significant difference between the groups of non-TSM and TSM patients. According to the 2018 version of LI-RADS for the LR5 category, there was no statistically significant difference between the two physicians' HCC diagnoses in terms of sensitivity (91.4% vs.86.4%, χ (2) = 1.500, P = 0.219), specificity (72.7 % vs. 69.7%, χ (2) = 0.000, P = 1.000), positive predictive value (89.2% vs. 87.5%, χ (2) = 2.250, P = 0.125), negative predictive value (77.4% vs. 67.6%, χ (2) = 2.250, P = 0.125), and accuracy (86.0% vs. 81.6%, χ (2) = 0.131, P = 0.125). According to physicians 1 and 2 film review results, 91.2% (104/114) and 89.5% (102/114) of the contrast agent were discharged into the common bile duct or duodenum, respectively. In addition, 86.0% (98/114) of the patients had good liver enhancement, and 91.2% (104/114) of the lesions showed low signals relative to the liver background. Conclusion: Domestic gadoxetate disodium has a good clinical safety profile and diagnostic efficacy.

Circular RNA 0000157 depletion protects human bronchial epithelioid cells from cigarette smoke extract-induced human bronchial epithelioid cell injury through the microRNA-149-5p/bromodomain containing 4 pathway

BACKGROUND

Circular RNA (circRNA) has been reported to regulate respiratory diseases. In the study, we aimed to elucidate the role of circ_0000157 in smoke-related chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the inner mechanism.

METHODS

COPD-like cell injury was induced by treating human bronchial epithelioid cells (16HBE) with cigarette smoke extract (CSE). The expression of circ_0000157, miR-149-5p, bromodomain containing 4 (BRD4), BCL2-associated x protein (Bax) and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) was analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or Western blotting. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to detect interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels. Malondialdehyde (MDA) production was detected by a lipid peroxidation MDA assay kit. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was analyzed by a SOD activity assay kit.

RESULTS

Circ_0000157 and BRD4 expression were upregulated, while miR-149-5p expression was downregulated in the blood of smokers with COPD and CSE-induced 16HBE cells compared with control groups. CSE treatment inhibited 16HBE cell proliferation and induced cell apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress; however, these effects were remitted when circ_0000157 expression was decreased. In addition, circ_0000157 acted as a miR-149-5p sponge and regulated CSE-caused 16HBE cell damage by targeting miR-149-5p. The overexpression of BRD4, a target gene of miR-149-5p, attenuated the inhibitory effects of miR-149-5p introduction on CSE-induced cell damage. Further, circ_0000157 modulated BRD4 expression by associating with miR-149-5p in CSE-treated 16HBE cells.

CONCLUSION

Circ_0000157 knockdown ameliorated CSE-caused 16HBE cell damage by targeting the miR-149-5p/BRD4 pathway, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for clinic intervention in COPD.

[The prevalence of atrial cardiomyopathy in patients with different types of acute ischemic stroke and its relationship with cryptogenic stroke]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of atrial cardiomyopathy in patients with different types of acute ischemic stroke and its relationship with cryptogenic stroke. Methods: Patients with acute ischemic stroke within 7 days of onset who were admitted to the Department of Neurology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January to September 2019 were prospectively and consecutively enrolled. All included patients were classified according to TOAST classification of ischemic stroke. Chi-square test was used to compare the prevalence of atrial cardiomyopathy among patients with different TOAST classifications. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the related factors of cryptogenic stroke. Results: A total of 1 098 patients with acute ischemic stroke were enrolled in the study, including 661 males and 437 females, with a median age [M(Q₁,Q₃)] of 61 (53, 68) years. The prevalence of atrial cardiomyopathy in patients with cryptogenic stroke[53.5% (46/86)] was higher than that in patients with large artery atherosclerosis [38.0%(63/166), P=0.018] and small vessel occlusion [19.4%(37/191), P<0.001], but was lower than that of patients in the cardioembolic group [97.3% (72/74), P<0.001]. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that atrial cardiomyopathy was an associated factor for cryptogenic stroke (OR=2.945, 95%CI: 1.766-4.911, P<0.001). Conclusions: Atrial cardiomyopathy is associated with cryptogenic stroke. The prevalence of atrial cardiomyopathy in patients with cryptogenic stroke is higher than that in patients with large artery atherosclerosis and small vessel occlusion, but lower than that in patients with cardiac embolism.

How sulfur species can accelerate the biological immobilization of the toxic selenium oxyanions and promote stable hexagonal Se0 formation

Toxic selenium oxyanions and sulfur species are often jointly present in contaminated waters and soils. This study investigated the effect on kinetics and resulting products for bio-reduction of selenium oxyanions in the presence of biologically produced sulfur resulting from bio-oxidation of sulfide in (bio)gas-desulfurization (bio-S⁰) and of sulfate. Selenite and selenate (~2 mmol L^-1) bio-reduction was studied in batch up to 28 days at 30 ^oC and pH 7 using lactic acid and a sulfate-reducing sludge, 'Emmtec'. Bio-S⁰ addition increased the selenite removal rate, but initially slightly decreased selenate reduction rates. Selenite reacted with biologically generated sulfide resulting in selenium-sulfur, which upon further bio-reduction creates a sulfur bio-reduction cycle. Sulfate addition increased the bio-reduction rate for both selenite and sulfate. Bio-S⁰ or sulfate promoted hexagonal selenium formation, whereas without these, mostly amorphous Se⁰ resulted. With another inoculum, 'Eerbeek', bio-S⁰ accelerated the selenite reduction rate less than for 'Emmtec' because of lower sulfur and higher selenite bio-reduction rates. Bio-S⁰ addition increased the selenate reduction rate slightly and accelerated hexagonal selenium formation. Hexagonal selenium formation is advantageous because it facilitates separation and recovery and is less mobile and toxic than amorphous Se⁰. Insights into the interaction between selenium and sulfur bio-reduction are valuable for understanding environmental pathways and considerations regarding remediation and recovery.

ML323 suppresses the progression of ovarian cancer via regulating USP1-mediated cell cycle

Background: Ubiquitin specific protease 1 (USP1) tightly correlates with poor prognosis of multiple cancers. However, whether USP1 underlies ovarian cancer (OV) progression remains unclarified.

Methods: First, GSEA strategy and WGCNA analysis were used to screen for anti-ovarian cancer drugs and furthern optimal module, respectively. In addition, functional enrichments of module genes were realized by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis. Kaplan-Meier was then employed to analyze the prognostic impact of USP1 expression on OV patients. Cell proliferation and cell cycle assays were used to confirm biological functions of USP1 in the final.

Results: Through the forementioned methods, we obtained five candidate drugs against OV from 353 anticancer drugs, and proposed ML323 as a novel anti-OV drug. As our hypothesized, ML323 significantly inhibited the proliferation of OV cells. Combined with WGCNA and KEGG analysis, the turquoise module was related to ML323, together with cell cycle. USP1 was subsequently identified as a target of ML323 and according to the TCGA database, USP1 negatively correlated with prognosis in OV, and its reduction and ML323-treatment both inhibited the proliferation of OV cells, blocking the S phase of cell cycle in vitro.

Conclusion: Taken together, ML323 exerts its inhibitory effect on the proliferation of OV cells by targeting USP1-regulated cell cycle, providing a therapeutical strategy and potential target against OV.

The Practical Haplotype Graph, a platform for storing and using pangenomes for imputation

MOTIVATION

Pangenomes provide novel insights for population and quantitative genetics, genomics, and breeding not available from studying a single reference genome. Instead, a species is better represented by a pangenome or collection of genomes. Unfortunately, managing and using pangenomes for genomically diverse species is computationally and practically challenging. We developed a trellis graph representation anchored to the reference genome that represents most pangenomes well and can be used to impute complete genomes from low density sequence or variant data.

RESULTS

The Practical Haplotype Graph (PHG) is a pangenome pipeline, database (PostGRES & SQLite), data model (Java, Kotlin, or R), and Breeding API (BrAPI) web service. The PHG has already been able to accurately represent diversity in four major crops including maize, one of the most genomically diverse species, with up to 1000-fold data compression. Using simulated data, we show that, at even 0.1X coverage, with appropriate reads and sequence alignment, imputation results in extremely accurate haplotype reconstruction. The PHG is a platform and environment for the understanding and application of genomic diversity.

AVAILABILITY

All resources listed here are freely available. The PHG Docker used to generate the simulation results is https://hub.docker.com/ as maizegenetics/phg:0.0.27. PHG source code is at https://bitbucket.org/bucklerlab/practicalhaplotypegraph/src/master/. The code used for the analysis of simulated data is at https://bitbucket.org/bucklerlab/phg-manuscript/src/master/. The PHG database of NAM parent haplotypes is in the CyVerse data store (https://de.cyverse.org/de/) and named /iplant/home/shared/panzea/panGenome/PHG_db_maize/phg_v5Assemblies_20200608.db.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

Autophagy-Sirtuin1(SIRT1) Alleviated the Coronary Atherosclerosis (AS)in Mice through Regulating the Proliferation and Migration of Endothelial Progenitor Cells (EPCs) via wnt/β-catenin/GSK3β Signaling Pathway

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

SIRT1 was associated with AS risk and EPCs were reported to participate in the endothelial repair in Coronary Atherosclerosis (CAS). In this study, we explored the role of SIRT1 in AS mice and also its modulation in EPCs.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

ApoE-/-mice were fed on high-fat and high-glucose diet to establish the AS animal model with the normally-raised C57BL/6 mice as a control group. SIRT1 activator, SRT 2104 was injected intravenously into 5 ApoE-/-mice and its inhibitor Nicotinamide was injected in tail in another 5 ApoE-/-mice. Weight changes were recorded. Blood samples were taken from posterior orbital venous plexus and were detected by automatic biochemical analyzer. HE staining displayed the pathological conditions while Immunohistochemistry (IHC) evaluated the CD34+/VEGFR2+ relative density in the aorta tissues. EPCs were isolated from bone marrow and verified using immunofluorescence staining (IFS). The modulatory mechanism of SIRT1 in EPCs were studied by using RT-PCR, MTT, Western Blot and colony formation, scratch methods.

RESULTS

SIRT1 activator negatively regulated the weight and TC, TG and LDL levels, alleviated the lesion conditions and decreased the CD34+/VEGFR2+ density compared to the AS control. In vitro, SIRT1 activator promoted the proliferation and migration of EPCs and activated wnt/β-catenin/GSK3β signaling pathway. SIRT1 activator also inhibited the autophagy biomarkers ATG1 and LC3II. Furthermore, inhibitor of autophagy promoted SIRT1 expression and induced EPC proliferation, migration and activated wnt/β-catenin/GSK3β pathway. The suppression of the wnt/β-catenin/GSK3β pathway inhibited SIRT1 expression in EPCs, attenuated the proliferation and migration and promoted autophagy of EPCs.

CONCLUSION

SIRT1 activation might be protective in AS mice through autophagy inhibition in EPCs via wnt/β-catenin/GSK3β signaling pathway.

Concordance Study of a 520-Gene Next-Generation Sequencing-Based Genomic Profiling Assay of Tissue and Plasma Samples

INTRODUCTION

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) enables simultaneous detection of actionable somatic variants and estimation of genomic signatures such as tumor mutational burden (TMB) or microsatellite instability (MSI) status, which empowers therapeutic decisions in clinical oncology.

OBJECTIVE

Our retrospective study investigated the clinical performance of somatic variant detection in paired tissue and blood samples using a large targeted gene panel, the OncoScreen Plus, which interrogates 520 cancer-related genes.

METHODS

We analyzed sequencing data derived from paired tissue and blood samples of 3005 patients spanning 20 solid tumor types, including lung (n = 1971), gastrointestinal (n = 625), breast (n = 120) and gynecological (n = 110), genitourinary (n = 38), and other cancers (n = 141).

RESULTS

Across tumor types, the OncoScreen Plus panel achieved a high tissue detection rate, with an average of 97.9%. The average plasma detection rate was 72.2%, with an average tissue concordance rate of 36.6%. Considering all variant types, the plasma assay yielded an average sensitivity/true positive rate of 45.7%, with a positive predictive value of 64.7% relative to tissue assay. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a strong correlation in TMB estimated from blood and tissue samples (correlation coefficient 0.845, R² = 0.756). MSI-high status was identified in five tumor types, including endometrial cancer (28.6%), colorectal cancer (2.5%), ovarian cancer (2.0%), gastric cancer (1.5%), and lung adenocarcinoma (0.2%).

CONCLUSION

Paired tumor and blood samples from a large cohort of patients spanning 20 tumor types demonstrated that the OncoScreen Plus is a reliable pan-cancer panel for the accurate detection of somatic variants and genomic signatures that could guide individualized treatment strategies to improve the care of patients with advanced cancer.

LncRNA DCST1-AS1 regulated cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis in gastric cancer by targeting miR-605-3p

The article "LncRNA DCST1-AS1 regulated cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis in gastric cancer by targeting miR-605-3p", by Y.-Z. Su, M.-F. Cui, J. Du, B. Song, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2020; 24 (3): 1158-1167-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202002_20167-PMID: 32096164, has been retracted by the authors since some experiment reagent in this article might be questionable (that may influence the accuracy of the final results). The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/20167.

[Cognition and related factors on the use of HIV non-occupational post-exposure prevention among men who have sex with men]

Objective: To understand the cognition and related factors on the use of HIV non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis (nPEP) among men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods: The snowballing method was applied to recruit research subjects who were ≥18 years old, had sex with men in the past three months, and were aware of nPEP in MSM groups in Beijing, Shenzhen, and Kunming from March 15 to April 14, 2019. Data on social demographics, behavioral characteristics, basic knowledge of nPEP, consultation, and using nPEP were collected through "i guardian Platform". The logistic regression model was used to analyze the related factors affecting the use of nPEP. Results: Among 1 809 investigated, 39.8% (720 persons) were aware of the basic knowledge of nPEP, 33.4% (605 persons) had consulted nPEP, and 15.0% (271 persons) had used nPEP. In addition, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that factors as whether to have sex with men infected with HIV in the last three months (OR=2.58, 95%CI: 1.64-4.07), the frequency of HIV testing in the past year (OR=2.47, 95%CI: 1.28-5.11), nPEP knowledge awareness (OR=0.70, 95%CI: 0.49-0.99), whether to consult nPEP (OR=70.98, 95%CI: 40.51-136.83) were related to the use of nPEP. Conclusions: MSM still have poor cognition of nPEP. It is necessary to strengthen the publicity and education of nPEP in MSM and promote the use of nPEP after HIV exposure as soon as possible.

[Analysis of the reported data of National Cervical Cancer Screening Program in Rural Areas in China from 2009 to 2018]

Objective: To analyze the effectiveness of the National Cervical Cancer Screening Program in Rural Areas (NCCSPRA) in China. Methods: Data were collected in the form of quarterly statistical tables reported by NCCSPRA counties in 30 provinces (Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan province of China were not included into the NCCSPRA, and Tibet Autonomous Region carried out the program but did not reported the data) from 2009 to 2018. The women aged 35-64 years with sexual behavior and the identity (Hukou) of rural area in these project counties were included into the NCCSPRA, and women receiving hysterectomy for non-cervical cancer or non-cervical lesions were excluded. The following indicators were analyzed: the positive rates of different screening methods, the abnormality rates of colposcopy and histopathology, the detection rate of precancerous lesions, the detection rate of cervical cancer and the rate of early diagnosis. Results: A total of 85 041 490 women aged 35-64 in rural areas received free cervical cancer screening and diagnosis if necessary. On the whole, the abnormality rate of cytology, HPV testing, VIA/VILI, colposcopy and histopathology was 3.71%(2 567 610), 9.91%(331 158), 10.10%(1 167 930), 28.85%(1 420 847), and 21.20%(303 068) respectively. The detection rate of cervical precancerous lesions was 153.88/100 000, and increased from 106.85/100 000 in 2012 to 223.89/100 000 in 2018 (P<0.001). Regionally, the east (207.37/100 000) reached higher rate than the middle (177.65/100 000), and the middle higher than the west (108.65/100 000) (P<0.001). The detection rate of invasive cervical cancer was 21.58/100 000, and increased from 18.02/100 000 in 2012 to 26.54/100 000 in 2018 (P<0.001). Regionally, the middle of China (25.46/100 000) reached the higher rate than the east (19.62/100 000) and the west (19.30/100 000) (P<0.001). The rate of early detection was 91.24%(136 140), which increased from 89.60% (11 883)in 2012 to 92.80%(26 962) in 2018 (P<0.001). Regionally, the east of China (94.02%, 37 600) reached the higher rate than the middle(91.06%, 56 488), and the middle higher than the west (89.12%, 42 052) (P<0.001). Conclusions: There are obvious difference in terms of the detection rate of cervical precancerous lesions and the rate of early diagnosis reflecting cervical cancer screening capacity among the eastern, middle and western regions,which showed service inequity among different areas indirectly. The middle and western regions, especially the western regions, are still the focus of future works.

[Relationship between insulin resistance, serum VCAM-1, FGF19, IGF-1 and colorectal polyps]

Objective: To explore the relationship between insulin resistance, glucose and lipid metabolism related molecules and colorectal polyps. Methods: A total of 262 healthy people who underwent colonoscopy in Shandong cancer hospital from June 2019 to September 2020 were selected. The levels of serum vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19), insulin like growth factor (IGF-1), fasting blood glucose and fasting blood insulin were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated, and the influencing factors of occurrence, pathological type, size and number of polyps were analyzed. Results: Among 262 cases, 116 cases were polyp free, 113 cases were adenomatous polyp and 33 cases were inflammatory polyp. HOMA-IR, VCAM-1 and FGF19 in polyp group were 2.904±1.754, (334.415±139.573) ng/ml and (135.865±98.470) pg/ml, respectively, which were higher than 2.369±1.306, (302.480±99.946) ng/ml and(110.694±76.044) ng/ml in non-polyp group, respectively (P<0.05). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the gender (OR=4.269, 95%CI: 1.963-9.405) and FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=2.385, 95%CI: 1.155-4.926) were independent factors of colorectal polyps. The gender (OR=3.799, 95%CI: 1.650-8.748) and FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=2.290, 95%CI: 1.072-4.891) were independent factors of colorectal adenomatous polyps. The gender(OR=6.725, 95%CI: 1.853-24.410) and fasting plasma glucose (≥6.5 mmol/L: OR=0.047, 95%CI: 0.009-0.245) were independent factors of colorectal inflammatory polyps. The gender (OR=3.539, 95% CI: 1.293-9.689) was an independent factor for the occurrence of single polyp. The gender (OR=5.063, 95% CI: 2.048-12.515), FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=2.502, 95%CI: 1.102-5.681), fasting plasma glucose (≥6.5 mmol/L: OR=0.282, 95%CI: 0.095-0.839) were independent factors of multiple polyps. The gender (OR=3.416, 95% CI: 1.134-10.289) and fasting insulin (≥9.4 μU/ml: OR=9.480, 95% CI: 1.485-60.521) were independent risk factors for colorectal polyps<0.5 cm. The gender (OR=3.151, 95%CI: 1.244-7.984) and fasting plasma glucose (≥6.5 mmol/L: OR=0.310, 95%CI: 0.102-0.941) were independent risk factors for colorectal polyps with the size of 0.5-0.9 cm. The gender (OR=22.649, 95%CI: 4.154-123.485), age (55 to 64 years old: OR=4.473, 95%CI: 1.070-18.704; ≥65 years old: OR=5.815, 95%CI: 1.300-26.009), BMI (≥28 kg/m(2): OR=5.310, 95%CI: 1.224-23.032) and FGF19 (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=7.474, 95%CI: 1.903-29.351) were independent factors for colorectal polyps with size ≥ 1.0 cm. Gender stratification analysis showed that FGF19 was an independent factor for the occurrence of male polyps (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=6.109, 95%CI: 1.688-22.104) and adenomas (77.0-131.4 pg/ml: OR=6.401, 95%CI: 1.717-23.864). The age (55 to 64 years old: OR=3.783, 95%CI: 1.052-13.611) and VCAM-1 (≥352.8 ng/ml: OR=4.341, 95%CI: 1.142-16.493) were independent risk factors of female polyps. The age (55 to 64 years old: OR=5.743, 95%CI: 1.205-27.362, ≥65 years old: OR=6.885, 95%CI: 1.143-41.467), VCAM-1 (≥352.8 ng/ml: OR=6.313, 95%CI: 1.415-28.159) and IGF-1 (≥7.6 ng/ml: OR=5.621, 95%CI: 1.069-29.543) were independent factors of female adenoma. Conclusions: The occurrences of colorectal polyps and adenomatous polyps are related to insulin resistance and glucose and lipid metabolism. Serum FGF19 is an independent influencing factor for the occurrence of colorectal polyps and adenomatous polyps, and is a potential serological diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for colorectal polyps and adenomatous polyps.

[Breast ultrasound optimization process analysis based on breast cancer screening for 1 501 753 rural women in China]

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and quality of ultrasound-based (BUS) process optimization in breast cancer screening. Methods: The program collected the first to fourth quarterly breast cancer screening statistic data and case report data from 30 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities in 2015 by the online report system of national key service program of women and children's public health. The call rate, mammography (MG) subsequent screen rate, biopsy rate, detection rate, early diagnosis rate, carcinoma in situ rate, missing detection rate, false positive rate and positive predictive value (PPV) of breast cancer were calculated. Results: A total of 1 501 753 rural women attended the BUS process optimization screening. The nationwide recall rate was 3.01%(45 156/1 501 753), and in the eastern and central area were 3.41%(17 173/503 130) and 3.56%(14 499/407 739), respectively, higher than 2.28% (13 484/590 884) of western area (P<0.05). The nationwide MG subsequent screen rate was 2.78%(41 694/1 501 753), and in the eastern and central area were 3.19%(16 036/503 130) and 3.29% (13 421/407 739), respectively, higher than 2.07%(12 237/590 884) of western area (P<0.05). The nationwide biopsy rate was 0.23%(3 462/1 501 753), and in the central area were 0.26%(1 078/407 739), respectively, higher than 0.21%(1 247/590 884) of western area and 0.23% (1 137/503 130) of eastern area (P<0.05). The nationwide biopsy PPV was 37.00%(1 281/3 462). The biopsy PPV of eastern area was (34.30%, 390/1 137), lower than 39.33% (424/1 078) of central area (P<0.05). A total of 1 281 cases of breast cancer were detected, the detection rate was 0.85‰(1 281/1 501 753), and the detection rates of central area was 1.04‰ (424/407 739), higher than 0.79‰(467/590 884) of western area and 0.78‰(390/503 130) of eastern area (P<0.05). The BUS initiate screening positive rate from detected breast cancer cases was 96.96%(1 242/1 281), the MG subsequent screening positive rate was 2.42%(31/1 281). The nationwide early diagnosis rate was 85.25%(1 092/1 281), and in the eastern and central areas were 87.95%(343/390) and 88.21%(374/424), higher than 80.30%(375/467) of western area (P<0.05). The screening rate of on or above stage Ⅱ breast cancer in eastern area was 55.64%(217/390), lower than 64.62%(374/424) of central area and 62.31%(291/467) of western area. The missing detection rate was 0.62%(8/1 281) and false positive rate was 1.20%(17 528/1 464 149). Conclusions: The BUS process optimization of breast cancer screening scheme is reasonable and applicable to China rural women. The effectiveness and quality of eastern area are superior to those of central and western area.

High-rate biological selenate reduction in a sequencing batch reactor for recovery of hexagonal selenium

Recovery of selenium (Se) from wastewater provides a solution for both securing Se supply and preventing Se pollution. Here, we developed a high-rate process for biological selenate reduction to elemental selenium. Distinctive from other studies, we aimed for a process with selenate as the main biological electron sink, with minimal formation of methane or sulfide. A sequencing batch reactor, fed with an influent containing 120 mgSe L^-1 selenate and ethanol as electron donor and carbon source, was operated for 495 days. The high rates (419 ± 17 mgSe L^-1 day^-1) were recorded between day 446 and day 495 for a hydraulic retention time of 6 h. The maximum conversion efficiency of selenate amounted to 96% with a volumetric conversion rate of 444 mgSe L^-1 day^-1, which is 6 times higher than the rates reported in the literature thus far. At the end of the experiment, a highly enriched selenate reducing biomass had developed, with a specific activity of 856 ± 26 mgSe^-1day^-1g_biomass^-1, which was nearly 1000-fold higher than that of the inoculum. No evidence was found for the formation of methane, sulfide, or volatile reduced selenium compounds like dimethyl-selenide or H₂Se, revealing a high selectivity. Ethanol was incompletely oxidized to acetate. The produced elemental selenium partially accumulated in the reactor as pure (≥80% Se of the total mixture of biomass sludge flocs and flaky aggregates, and ~100% of the specific flaky aggregates) selenium black hexagonal needles, with cluster sizes between 20 and 200 µm. The new process may serve as the basis for a high-rate technology to remove and recover pure selenium from wastewater or process streams with high selectivity.

LncRNA DCST1-AS1 regulated cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis in gastric cancer by targeting miR-605-3p

OBJECTIVE

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers in the world, with a high incidence and a poor prognosis. A large number of lncRNAs have been demonstrated to play multiple important roles in cancer development and progression. LncRNA is usually used as ceRNA and forms a regulatory network with miRNA in gastric cancer. However, the function and regulatory network of lncRNA in gastric cancer have not been fully elucidated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The qRT-PCR assay was used to detect DCST1-AS1 and miR-605-3p expression. Western blot was applied to measure the protein expression of CDK4, cyclin D1, MMP-2, MMP-9, cleaved caspase 3, Bcl-2, Bax and β-actin. MTT assay and flow cytometry were performed to assess cell proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Transwell migration and invasion assay were used to determine cell migration capacity and invasion ability. Luciferase reporter assay was applied to determine the relationship of DCST-AS1 and miR-605-3p in GC.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that DCST1-AS1 was highly expressed while miR-605-3p was low expressed in GC tissues and cells. Moreover, DCST1-AS1 expression negatively regulated miR-605-3p expression in GC. Functionally test demonstrated that knockdown of DCST1 inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion as well as promoted cell apoptosis in GC cells. Interestingly, miR-605-3p has been verified to be a target miRNA of DCST1-AS1 with luciferase reporter assay. More than that, the reverse experiment determined that the inhibition of miR-605-3p could alleviate the suppressive effects of low DCST1-AS1 expression on cell growth in GC.

CONCLUSIONS

We proved the regulatory network of lncRNA DCST1-AS1 for the first time, and also explored and found that lncRNA DCST1-AS1 regulated cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis by regulation of miR-605-3p, providing a new therapeutic target for gastric cancer treatment.

Effect of seasonal changes on the innate immunity of wild pseudois nayaur: potential reason for its endangerment

It has been widely concerned that seasonal climate change may impose stress on mammal's immune system, but this has never been connected to wildlife endangerment reasons. This study focuses on pseudois nayaur, a rare Chinese sheep facing a severe situation of disappearing. Wild pseudois nayaurs in Sichuan, China were observed in this research by an integrated method including habitat environment, foraging rules, and breeding activities investigation in ecology filed, accompanied with immunity research by PB (peripheral blood), including erythrocyte, neutrophils, NK(natural kill) cells, and macrophages immunity by means of erythrocyte rosette, phagocytosis, LDH (lactatedehydrogenase) release and ANAE (acid α-naphthyl acetate esterase) method, respectively. The results show that pseudois nayaurs's innate and red blood cell immune functions were in degradation in autumn and winter, which were speculated to be the results of energy reallocation between reproduction and the immune system. In addition, the environment pressure found in Zhu Balong, Sichuan, China including food reduction, human disturbance, low temperature, and severe drought still existed, which may prevent the pseudois nayaur from normally immunity enhancement before winter. In conclusion, the innate immunosuppression found in this study especially at their breeding season in autumn and winter may be the ignored cause of wild pseudois nayaur endangerment and should be considered in their protection strategy.