Disease progression and clinical outcomes in latent osteoarthritis phenotypes: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative

The prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) is widespread and the heterogeneous patient factors and clinical symptoms in OA patients impede developing personalized treatments for OA patients. In this study, we used unsupervised and supervised machine learning to organize the heterogeneity in knee OA patients and predict disease progression in individuals from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) dataset. We identified four distinct knee OA phenotypes using unsupervised learning that were defined by nutrition, disability, stiffness, and pain (knee and back) and were strongly related to disease fate. Interestingly, the absence of supplemental vitamins from an individual's diet was protective from disease progression. Moreover, we established a phenotyping tool and prognostic model from 5 variables (WOMAC disability score of the right knee, WOMAC total score of the right knee, WOMAC total score of the left knee, supplemental vitamins and minerals frequency, and antioxidant combination multivitamins frequency) that can be utilized in clinical practice to determine the risk of knee OA progression in individual patients. We also developed a prognostic model to estimate the risk for total knee replacement and provide suggestions for modifiable variables to improve long-term knee health. This combination of unsupervised and supervised data-driven tools provides a framework to identify knee OA phenotype in a clinical scenario and personalize treatment strategies.

Production of transgenic periclinal chimeras in pumpkin - a tool for revealing cell fates of L1 meristem

Genetic engineering is commonly used to improve the agronomic traits of crops. However, genetic transformation in pumpkin remains a challenge. Conducting transformation trials, we accidentally created transgenic L1 periclinal chimeras in pumpkins. Using our modified Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, we generated transgenic L1 periclinal chimeras which have high value in research on development of the meristem. Fluorescence observations of transformed L1 cells enabled us to reveal cell fates. These L1 cells can develop into stomata, epidermal hairs, seed coat, and epidermis of the root, stem, leaf, flower, and fruit. These periclinal chimeras can be propagated vegetatively with minimal risk of transgene flow. This study offers new perspectives on development of the meristem and a promising technique for creating transgenic periclinal chimeras in plants.

Health state utility values for children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the most burdensome chronic diseases in the world. Health utility values are an important tool for quantifying this disease burden and conducting cost-utility analyses. This review aimed to derive a reference set of health utility values for children and adolescents with T1DM.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and Embase from inception to March 2023 for health utility values of T1DM children and adolescents (aged ≤18 years) measured using direct and indirect preference elicitation approaches. Utility estimates were pooled by meta-analyses with subgroup analyses to evaluate differences by populations and elicitation approaches.

RESULTS

Six studies involving 1276 participants were included in this study. Meta-analysis showed the overall utility value of children and adolescents with T1DM was 0.91 (95% CI 0.89-0.93). The utility value of T1DM children and adolescents with complications was 0.90 (95% CI 0.88-0.92), which was lower than those without complications (0.96, 95% CI 0.95-0.97). The utility value of children (aged <13 years) was higher than adolescents (aged 13-18 years) (0.90 vs. 0.85). The utility value measured by the EQ-5D-3L (0.91) was higher than the HUI3 (0.89), the SF-6Dv1 (0.83), and the time trade-off (0.81). The parent proxy-reported was similar to the patient self-reported (0.91 vs. 0.91).

CONCLUSIONS

This study developed a reference set of pooled utility estimates for children and adolescents with T1DM, which is helpful for understanding the overall health status of T1DM and conducting economic evaluations. Further studies are needed to explore the utilities of T1DM with different types of complications.

CCL2 promotes lymphatic metastasis via activating RhoA and Rac1 pathway and predict prognosis to some extent in tongue cancer

BACKGROUND

Oral tongue cancer is an extremely malignant tumor with high rate of lymphatic metastasis. Little is known about its invasion and metastasis mechanisms so far.

METHODS

To clarify the main role of CCL2 in tongue cancer progression, we performed Transwell migration assay to confirm the effects of different concentrations of CCL2 on the migration and invasion of tongue cancer cells. Next, by siRNA interference of RhoA and Rac1 in LNMTca8113 cells, we are able to observe that these two molecules block the effect of CCL2 on cell migration and cytoskeleton reorganization by laser confocal microscopy. Moreover, the AKT phosphorylation level of PI3K downstream molecule under the action of CCL2 also be detected by qRT-PCR and western blot, so as to determine whether CCL2 affects the proliferation of LNMTca8113 cells through PI3K/AKT pathway. Finally, we analyzed the relationship between plasma CCL2 level and various clinicopathological parameters in patients with tongue cancer. Results: We found that tongue cancer cells treated with CCL2 migrate faster at first. CCL2 may enhance the invasion and migration of LNMTca8113 cells by activating RhoA and Rac1 to promote cytoskeleton reorganization. Promotion of LNMTca8113 migration induced by CCL2 was inhibited by silence of RhoA and Rac1. CCL2 could increase the phosphorylation of downstream Akt/PI3K signal and promoted the proliferation. Plasma concentration confirmed that the CCL2 level was closely related to the clinical stage of tongue cancer. Patients with lower CCL2 levels had a relatively longer progression-free survival and total survival time.

RESULTS

After adding CCL2, the number of proliferation and migration of tongue cancer cells increased and the expression of RhoA and Rac1 rose up in LNMTca8113 cell line. The cytoskeleton reorganization was notable. Patients with higher serum levels of CCL2 had shorter progression-free survival than those with lower levels of CCL2 (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

CCL2 promotes the invasion and metastasis of tongue cancer by PI3K/Akt pathway. The plasma level of CCL2 may predict prognosis of tongue cancer patients. CCL2 can serve as a potential therapeutic target for tongue cancer treatment.

Disease progression and clinical outcomes in latent osteoarthritis phenotypes: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative

The prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) is widespread and the heterogeneous patient factors and clinical symptoms in OA patients impede developing personalized treatments for OA patients. In this study, we used unsupervised and supervised machine learning to organize the heterogeneity in knee OA patients and predict disease progression in individuals from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) dataset. We identified four distinct knee OA phenotypes using unsupervised learning that were defined by nutrition, disability, stiffness, and pain (knee and back) and were strongly related to disease fate. Interestingly, the absence of supplemental vitamins from an individual's diet was protective from disease progression. Moreover, we established a phenotyping tool and prognostic model from 5 variables (WOMAC disability score of the right knee, WOMAC total score of the right knee, WOMAC total score of the left knee, supplemental vitamins and minerals frequency, and antioxidant combination multivitamins frequency) that can be utilized in clinical practice to determine the risk of knee OA progression in individual patients. We also developed a prognostic model to estimate the risk for total knee replacement and provide suggestions for modifiable variables to improve long-term knee health. This combination of unsupervised and supervised data-driven tools provides a framework to identify knee OA phenotype in a clinical scenario and personalize treatment strategies.

[Analysis on epidemiological characteristics of central obesity/pre-central obesity and influencing factors in Jilin Province]

Objective: To understand the epidemiological characteristics of central obesity and pre-central obesity and influencing factors in residents in Jilin Province, and provide reference for the prevention and control of central obesity and pre-central obesity. Methods: Based on the results of early screening and comprehensive intervention program in high-risk groups of cardiovascular disease in Jilin dyring 2017-2018, a total of 11 903 participants aged 35-75 years in 6 project areas in Jilin were included as the survey subjects for physical examination, laboratory test and questionnaire survey. The prevalence of central obesity and pre-central obesity in populations with different characteristic and health status were analyzed by χ2 test, trend χ2 test, F-test. Multivariate logistic regression model was used for influencing factor analysis. Results: The central obesity rate was 33.35% (3 970/11 903), the standardized rate was 31.73%, the pre-central obesity rate was 28.79% (3 427/11 903), the standardized rate was 28.86%. Multifactor analysis results showed that being rural resident (OR=1.99, 95%CI: 1.78-2.23), being woman (OR=1.76, 95%CI: 1.57-1.97), 65-75 years old (OR=1.21, 95%CI: 1.03-1.45), senior high school and technical secondary school education level (OR=1.38, 95%CI: 1.17-1.63), annual family income >100 000 yuan (OR=1.65, 95%CI: 1.20-2.26), overweight (OR=9.27, 95%CI: 8.26-10.41), obesity (OR=82.82, 95%CI: 62.63-109.52), normal high blood pressure (OR=1.49, 95%CI: 1.27-1.74), hypertension (OR=1.70, 95%CI: 1.42-2.04), diabetes (OR=2.30, 95%CI: 1.94-2.73), dyslipidemia (OR=1.33, 95%CI: 1.18-1.50) were positively related to the risk for central obesity and pre central obesity. Conclusions: The prevalence rates of central obesity and pre central obesity in residents in Jilin were at high levels, being rural resident, being woman, older age, senior high school and technical secondary school education level, high income, overweight and obesity, normal high blood pressure and hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia were risk factors for central obesity and pre-central obesity in Jilin.

Accelerating multielectron reduction at CuxO nanograins interfaces with controlled local electric field

Regulating electron transport rate and ion concentrations in the local microenvironment of active site can overcome the slow kinetics and unfavorable thermodynamics of CO2 electroreduction. However, simultaneous optimization of both kinetics and thermodynamics is hindered by synthetic constraints and poor mechanistic understanding. Here we leverage laser-assisted manufacturing for synthesizing CuxO bipyramids with controlled tip angles and abundant nanograins, and elucidate the mechanism of the relationship between electron transport/ion concentrations and electrocatalytic performance. Potassium/OH- adsorption tests and finite element simulations corroborate the contributions from strong electric field at the sharp tip. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry unveil the dynamic evolution of critical *CO/*OCCOH intermediates and product profiles, complemented with theoretical calculations that elucidate the thermodynamic contributions from improved coupling at the Cu+/Cu2+ interfaces. Through modulating the electron transport and ion concentrations, we achieve high Faradaic efficiency of 81% at ~900 mA cm-2 for C2+ products via CO2RR. Similar enhancement is also observed for nitrate reduction reaction (NITRR), achieving 81.83 mg h-1 ammonia yield rate per milligram catalyst. Coupling the CO2RR and NITRR systems demonstrates the potential for valorizing flue gases and nitrate wastes, which suggests a practical approach for carbon-nitrogen cycling.

Measurements of Groomed-Jet Substructure of Charm Jets Tagged by D^{0} Mesons in Proton-Proton Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

Understanding the role of parton mass and Casimir color factors in the quantum chromodynamics parton shower represents an important step in characterizing the emission properties of heavy quarks. Recent experimental advances in jet substructure techniques have provided the opportunity to isolate and characterize gluon emissions from heavy quarks. In this Letter, the first direct experimental constraint on the charm-quark splitting function is presented, obtained via the measurement of the groomed shared momentum fraction of the first splitting in charm jets, tagged by a reconstructed D^{0} meson. The measurement is made in proton-proton collisions at sqrt[s]=13  TeV, in the low jet transverse-momentum interval of 15≤p_{T}^{jet ch}<30  GeV/c where the emission properties are sensitive to parton mass effects. In addition, the opening angle of the first perturbative emission of the charm quark, as well as the number of perturbative emissions it undergoes, is reported. Comparisons to measurements of an inclusive-jet sample show a steeper splitting function for charm quarks compared with gluons and light quarks. Charm quarks also undergo fewer perturbative emissions in the parton shower, with a reduced probability of large-angle emissions.

Precipitation pattern alters the effects of nitrogen deposition on the growth of alien species Robinia pseudoacacia

Aims

Nitrogen (N) supply and precipitation pattern (amount and frequency) both affect plant growth. However, N deposition is increasing and precipitation regimes are changing in the context of global change. An experiment was conducted to access how the growth of Robinia pseudoacacia, a widely distributed and cultivated N2-fixing alien species, is affected by both the pattern of precipitation and N supplies.

Methods

Seedlings were grown in a glasshouse at four different N levels combined with different precipitation regimes, including three precipitation amounts, and two precipitation frequencies. After treatment for 75 days, plant height, biomass allocation, leaf and soil nutrient concentrations were measured.

Results

Plants under high precipitation frequency had greater biomass compared with plants lower precipitation frequency, despite receiving the same amount of precipitation. Higher N supply reduced biomass allocation to nodules. Under low precipitation level, nodule growth and N2 fixation of R. pseudoacacia was more inhibited by high N deposition compared with plants under higher precipitation level. Even slightly N deposition under higher precipitation inhibited N2 fixation but it was insufficient to meet the N needs of the plants.

Conclusions

Even at low levels, N deposition might inhibit N2 fixation of plants but low N in soil cannot meet the N requirements of plants, and caused N2 fixation limitation in plants during seedling stage. There was likely a transition from N2 fixation to acquisition of N from soil directly with root when N supply was increased.

Personalized 3D-Printed Scaffolds with Multiple Bioactivities for Bioroot Regeneration

Recent advances in 3D printing offer a prospective avenue for producing transplantable human tissues with complex geometries; however, the appropriate 3D-printed scaffolds possessing the biological compatibility for tooth regeneration remain unidentified. This study proposes a personalized scaffold of multiple bioactivities, including induction of stem cell proliferation and differentiation, biomimetic mineralization, and angiogenesis. A brand-new bioink system comprising a biocompatible and biodegradable polymer is developed and reinforced with extracellular matrix generated from dentin tissue (treated dentin matrix, TDM). Adding TDM optimizes physical properties including microstructure, hydrophilicity, and mechanical strength of the scaffolds. Proteomics analysis reveals that the released proteins of the 3D-printed TDM scaffolds relate to multiple biological processes and interact closely with each other. Additionally, 3D-printed TDM scaffolds establish a favorable microenvironment for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation in vitro. The 3D-printed TDM scaffolds are proangiogenic and facilitate whole-thickness vascularization of the graft in a subcutaneous model. Notably, the personalized TDM scaffold combined with dental follicle cells mimics the anatomy and physiology of the native tooth root three months after in situ transplantation in beagles. The remarkable in vitro and in vivo outcomes suggest that the 3D-printed TDM scaffolds have multiple bioactivities and immense clinical potential for tooth-loss therapy.

Comparison of the measurement properties of the EQ-5D-5L and SF-6Dv2 among overweight and obesity populations in China

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate and compare the measurement properties of the EQ-5D-5L and SF-6Dv2 among Chinese overweight and obesity populations.

METHODS

A representative sample of Chinese overweight and obesity populations was recruited stratified by age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and area of residence. Social-demographic characteristics and self-reported EQ-5D-5L and SF-6Dv2 responses were collected through the online survey. The agreement was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). Convergent validity and known-group validity were examined using Spearman's rank correlation and effect sizes, respectively. The test-retest reliability was assessed using among a subgroup of the total sample. Sensitivity was compared using relative efficiency and receiver operating characteristic.

RESULTS

A total of 1000 respondents (52.0% male, mean age 51.7 years, 67.7% overweight, 32.3% obesity) were included in this study. A higher ceiling effect was observed in EQ-5D-5L than in SF-6Dv2 (30.6% vs. 2.1%). The mean (SD) utility was 0.851 (0.195) for EQ-5D-5L and 0.734 (0.164) for SF-6Dv2, with the ICC of the total sample was 0.639 (p < 0.001). The Spearman's rank correlation (range: 0.186-0.739) indicated an acceptable convergent validity between the dimensions of EQ-5D-5L and SF-6Dv2. The EQ-5D-5L showed basically equivalent discriminative capacities with the SF-6Dv2 (ES: 0.517-1.885 vs. 0.383-2.329). The ICC between the two tests were 0.939 for EQ-5D-5L and 0.972 for SF-6Dv2 among the subgroup (N = 150). The SF-6Dv2 had 3.7-170.1% higher efficiency than the EQ-5D-5L at detecting differences in self-reported health status, while the EQ-5D-5L was found to be 16.4% more efficient at distinguishing between respondents with diabetes and non-diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the EQ-5D-5L and SF-6Dv2 showed comparable reliability, validity, and sensitivity when used in Chinese overweight and obesity populations. The two measures may not be interchangeable given the systematic difference in utility values between the EQ-5D-5L and SF-6Dv2. More research is needed to compare the responsiveness.

An HA/PEEK scaffold with modified crystallinity via 3D-bioprinting for multiple applications in hard tissue engineering

Hard tissues, especially teeth and bones, are highly mineralized and the large-scale defect or total loss of them is irreversible. There is still no ideal strategy for the reconstruction of various hard tissue defects that can achieve the balance between biological and mechanical properties. Polyether ether ketone (PEEK) has the potential to substitute for natural hard tissue in defect areas but is limited by its biological inertness. The addition of hydroxyapatite (HA) can significantly improve the osteogenic properties and osteointegration of PEEK materials. But the mechanical properties of HA/PEEK scaffolds are far from satisfaction making scaffolds easy to fracture. We put forward a strategy to balance the mechanical and biological properties of HA/PEEK scaffolds via the regulation of the inner crystallinity and HA mixing ratio and we systematically evaluated the modified HA/PEEK scaffolds through material characterization,in vitroandin vivoexperiments. And we found that the 20%HA/PEEK scaffolds with low crystallinity achieved the required strength and elasticity, and exhibited the characteristics of promoting the proliferation, migration and osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. The results of the implantation of beagles' teeth, mandible and rib showed that the 20%HA/PEEK scaffold with low crystallinity could well withstand the local complex force in the defect area and combine well with natural bone tissue, which made it a candidate for a practical versatile hard tissue engineering scaffold.

Pembrolizumab plus vorinostat induces responses in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma refractory to prior PD-1 blockade

This phase 1 study evaluated the addition of vorinostat to pembrolizumab in patients with relapsed/refractory (RR) classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma. We report the results in cases of cHL. Adult patients with RR cHL who had received ≥1 prior lines of therapy and were ineligible for transplantation were treated in a dose-escalation cohort with 2 dose levels (DLs) and then on an expansion cohort at the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) in 21-day cycles. Vorinostat 100 mg twice a day (DL1) and 200 mg twice a day (DL2) was administered orally from days 1 to 5 and 8 to 12; all patients received pembrolizumab 200 mg IV every 3 weeks. The primary end point was safety and determination of RP2D. In total, 32 patients with cHL were enrolled, including 30 at DL2 (RP2D); 78% had received prior anti-programmed cell death 1 (anti-PD-1) therapy, and 56% were PD-1 refractory. Grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs) included hypertension (9%), neutropenia (9%), hypophosphatemia (9%), thrombocytopenia (6%), and lymphopenia (6%). Immune-related AEs included grade 1 or 2 thyroiditis (13%), grade 1 rash (6%), and grade 3 esophagitis/duodenitis (3%). The overall response rate (ORR) was 72% and complete response (CR) rate was 34%. Patients refractory to prior PD-1 blockade (n = 18) had ORR and CR rates of 56% and 11%, respectively. Pembrolizumab and vorinostat was well tolerated with a high ORR rate in RR cHL including in anti-PD-1-refractory disease. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03150329.

Peritumoral Immune-suppressive Mechanisms Impede Intratumoral Lymphocyte Infiltration into Colorectal Cancer Liver versus Lung Metastases

Patients with microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancer with liver metastases are resistant to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy, while about one-third of patients with colorectal cancer without liver metastases, particularly those with lung-only metastases, respond to ICI. We analyzed primary colorectal cancer tumors and major metastatic sites (liver, lung, peritoneal) using multiplex immunofluorescence and whole-slide spatial analyses to identify variations in immune contexture and regional localization within the tumor microenvironment. While levels of T and B cells within peritumoral regions were similar, their levels were significantly lower within the tumor core of liver and peritoneal metastases compared with lung metastases. In contrast, antigen-presenting cells (APC) and APC-T cell interactions were more abundant in all regions of lung metastases. We also identified an abundance of lymphoid aggregates throughout lung metastases, but these were present only within peritumoral regions of liver and peritoneal metastases. Larger lymphoid aggregates consistent with features of tertiary lymphoid structures were observed within or adjacent to primary tumors, but not metastatic lesions. Our findings were validated using NanoString GeoMx DSP, which further showed that liver metastases had higher expression of immune-suppressive markers, while lung metastases showed higher proinflammatory activity and T-cell activation markers. Peritoneal metastases demonstrated higher expression of cancer-associated fibroblast-related proteins and upregulated PD-1/PD-L1 signaling molecules. Our results demonstrate that functional status and spatial distribution of immune cells vary significantly across different metastatic sites. These findings suggest that metastatic site-dependent immune contexture may underlie discordant responses to ICI therapy in patients with MSS colorectal cancer.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our results demonstrate that functional status and spatial distribution of immune cells vary significantly across different metastatic sites in MSS colorectal cancer. These findings suggest that metastatic site-dependent immune contexture may underlie discordant responses to ICI therapy in patients with MSS colorectal cancer.

Powerful Synergy of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Aggregation-Induced Emission-Active Photosensitizer in Photodynamic Therapy

Breast cancer (BC) remains a significant global health challenge for women despite advancements in early detection and treatment. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a compound derived from traditional Chinese medicine, has shown potential as an anti-BC therapy, but its low bioavailability and poor water solubility restrict its effectiveness. In this study, we created theranostic nanoparticles consisting of ISL and a near-infrared (NIR) photosensitizer, TBPI, which displays aggregation-induced emission (AIE), with the goal of providing combined chemo- and photodynamic therapies (PDT) for BC. Initially, we designed an asymmetric organic molecule, TBPI, featuring a rotorlike triphenylamine as the donor and 1-methylpyridinium iodide as the acceptor, which led to the production of reactive oxygen species in mitochondria. We then combined TBPI with ISL and encapsulated them in DSPE-PEG-RGD nanoparticles to produce IT-PEG-RGD nanoparticles, which showed high affinity for BC, better intersystem crossing (ISC) efficiency, and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between TBPI and ISL. In both 4T1 BC cell line and a 4T1 tumor-bearing BC mouse model, the IT-PEG-RGD nanoparticles demonstrated excellent drug delivery, synergistic antitumor effects, enhanced tumor-killing efficacy, and reduced drug dosage and side effects. Furthermore, we exploited the optical properties of TBPI with ISL to reveal the release process and distribution of nanoparticles in cells. This study provides a valuable basis for further exploration of IT-PEG-RGD nanoparticles and their anticancer mechanisms, highlighting the potential of theranostic nanoparticles in BC treatment.

Fibulin-1 Regulates Initiation of Successional Dental Lamina

In humans, teeth are replaced only once, and the successional dental lamina (SDL) of the permanent tooth is maintained in a quiescent state until adolescence. Recently, we showed that biomechanical stress generated by the rapid growth of the deciduous tooth inhibits SDL development via integrin β1-RUNX2 signaling at embryonic day 60 (E60) in miniature pigs. However, the mechanism by which RUNX2 regulates SDL initiation within the SDL stem cell niche remains unclear. In the current study, we transcriptionally profiled single cells from SDL and surrounding mesenchyme at E60 and identified the landscape of cellular heterogeneity. We then identified a specific fibroblast subtype in the dental follicle mesenchyme between the deciduous tooth and the SDL of the permanent tooth (DFDP), which constitutes the inner part of the niche (deciduous tooth side). Compared with traditional dental follicle cells, the specific expression profile of DFDP was identified and found to be related to biomechanical stress. Subsequently, we found that RUNX2 could bind to the enhancer regions of Fbln1 (gene of fibulin-1), one of the marker genes for DFDP. Through gain- and loss-of-function experiments, we proved that the biomechanical stress-mediated RUNX2-fibulin-1 axis inhibits the initiation of SDL by maintaining SDL niche homeostasis.

Versatile octave-spanning soliton crystals with high conversion efficiency in a Si3N4 microresonator

Microresonator-based soliton crystals are a key recent advancement in the study of the rich nonlinear dynamics of soliton states. The soliton crystals are self-organized temporal pulses filling the microresonator cavity and have strong comb lines with wide spacing making them of great interest in many potential applications such as communication and meteorology. However, achieving a broad spectrum, tunable repetition rates, and high conversion efficiency are still a challenge. Here, we report the deterministic generation of versatile octave-spanning soliton crystals with various repetition rates via avoided mode crossings. In addition, we investigate the conversion efficiency of the obtained soliton crystals and achieved above ∼50% in one of the devices with a suitable coupling. Our results pave the way for accessing coherent broad and tunable on-chip soliton crystals, thus requiring a rigorous and viable microcavity design to engineer the desired mode coupling position.

CDC42-mediated Wnt signaling facilitates odontogenic differentiation of DPCs during tooth root elongation

BACKGROUND

CDC42 is a member of Rho GTPase family, acting as a molecular switch to regulate cytoskeleton organization and junction maturation of epithelium in organ development. Tooth root pattern is a highly complicated and dynamic process that dependens on interaction of epithelium and mesenchyme. However, there is a lack of understanding of the role of CDC42 during tooth root elongation.

METHODS

The dynamic expression of CDC42 was traced during tooth development through immunofluorescence staining. Then we constructed a model of lentivirus or inhibitor mediated Cdc42 knockdown in Herwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS) cells and dental papilla cells (DPCs), respectively. Long-term influence of CDC42 abnormality was assessed via renal capsule transplantation and in situ injection of alveolar socket.

RESULTS

CDC42 displayed a dynamic spatiotemporal pattern, with abundant expression in HERS cells and apical DPCs in developing root. Lentivirus-mediated Cdc42 knockdown in HERS cells didn't disrupt cell junctions as well as epithelium-mesenchyme transition. However, inhibition of CDC42 in DPCs undermined cell proliferation, migration and odontogenic differentiation. Wnt/β-catenin signaling as the downstream target of CDC42 modulated DPCs' odontogenic differentiation. The transplantation and in situ injection experiments verified that loss of CDC42 impeded root extension via inhibiting the proliferation and differentiation of DPCs.

CONCLUSIONS

We innovatively revealed that CDC42 was responsible for guiding root elongation in a mesenchyme-specific manner. Furthermore, CDC42-mediated canonical Wnt signaling regulated odontogenic differentiation of DPCs during root formation.

Combination of RUNX1 inhibitor and gemcitabine mitigates chemo-resistance in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by modulating BiP/PERK/eIF2α-axis-mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress

BACKGROUND

Gemcitabine (GEM)-based chemotherapy is the first-line option for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the development of drug resistance limits its efficacy, and the specific mechanisms remain largely unknown. RUNX1, a key transcription factor in hematopoiesis, also involved in the malignant progression of PDAC, but was unclear in the chemoresistance of PDAC.

METHODS

Comparative analysis was performed to screen GEM-resistance related genes using our single-cell RNA sequencing(scRNA-seq) data and two public RNA-sequencing datasets (GSE223463, GSE183795) for PDAC. The expression of RUNX1 in PDAC tissues was detected by qRT-PCR, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blot. The clinical significance of RUNX1 in PDAC was determined by single-or multivariate analysis and survival analysis. We constructed the stably expressing cell lines with shRUNX1 and RUNX1, and successfully established GEM-resistant cell line. The role of RUNX1 in GEM resistance was determined by CCK8 assay, plate colony formation assay and apoptosis analysis in vitro and in vivo. To explore the mechanism, we performed bioinformatic analysis using the scRNA-seq data to screen for the endoplasm reticulum (ER) stress signaling that was indispensable for RUNX1 in GEM resistance. We observed the cell morphology in ER stress by transmission electron microscopy and validated RUNX1 in gemcitabine resistance depended on the BiP/PERK/eIF2α pathway by in vitro and in vivo oncogenic experiments, using ER stress inhibitor(4-PBA) and PERK inhibitor (GSK2606414). The correlation between RUNX1 and BiP expression was assessed using the scRNA-seq data and TCGA dataset, and validated by RT-PCR, immunostaining and western blot. The mechanism of RUNX1 regulation of BiP was confirmed by ChIP-PCR and dual luciferase assay. Finally, the effect of RUNX1 inhibitor on PDAC was conducted in vivo mouse models, including subcutaneous xenograft and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models.

RESULTS

RUNX1 was aberrant high expressed in PDAC and closely associated with GEM resistance. Silencing of RUNX1 could attenuate resistance in GEM-resistant cell line, and its inhibitor Ro5-3335 displayed an enhanced effect in inhibiting tumor growth, combined with GEM treatment, in PDX mouse models and GEM-resistant xenografts. In detail, forced expression of RUNX1 in PDAC cells suppressed apoptosis induced by GEM exposure, which was reversed by the ER stress inhibitor 4-PBA and PERK phosphorylation inhibitor GSK2606414. RUNX1 modulation of ER stress signaling mediated GEM resistance was supported by the analysis of scRNA-seq data. Consistently, silencing of RUNX1 strongly inhibited the GEM-induced activation of BiP and PERK/eIF2α signaling, one of the major pathways involved in ER stress. It was identified that RUNX1 directly bound to the promoter region of BiP, a primary ER stress sensor, and stimulated BiP expression to enhance the reserve capacity for cell adaptation, which in turn facilitated GEM resistance in PDAC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

This study identifies RUNX1 as a predictive biomarker for response to GEM-based chemotherapy. RUNX1 inhibition may represent an effective strategy for overcoming GEM resistance in PDAC cells.

Measurement of the Lifetime and Λ Separation Energy of _{Λ}^{3}H

The most precise measurements to date of the _{Λ}^{3}H lifetime τ and Λ separation energy B_{Λ} are obtained using the data sample of Pb-Pb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5.02  TeV collected by ALICE at the LHC. The _{Λ}^{3}H is reconstructed via its charged two-body mesonic decay channel (_{Λ}^{3}H→^{3}He+π^{-} and the charge-conjugate process). The measured values τ=[253±11(stat)±6(syst)]  ps and B_{Λ}=[102±63(stat)±67(syst)]  keV are compatible with predictions from effective field theories and confirm that the _{Λ}^{3}H structure is consistent with a weakly bound system.

Effects of Yi Jin Jing on juvenile cervical spondylopathy in China: A parallel, randomized, assessor-blinded clinical trial

Background

Cervical spondylopathy is a common musculo-articular disorder, multiple exercises are recommended. Chinese fitness exercises are prevalent and used to treat various diseases.

Aim

To explore the efficacy of Chinese fitness exercise Yi Jin Jing exercise in intervening the cervical spondylopathy in adolescents.

Patients and Methods

The study was conducted in 60 adolescent patients with cervical spondylopathy, with 30 patients in each group.

Methods

The study was conducted in 60 adolescent patients with cervical spondylopathy, with 30 patients in each group. The observation group was required to take Yi Jin Jing exercise, and the control group took the brisk walking exercise. The first week was the preparatory period for the patients, and then the participants were required to do exercises three times a week for at least 30 minutes in the later 3 weeks. Before and after treatment, Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores, pain visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and cervical curvature in both groups were observed, and the incidence of adverse events in both groups was recorded during the trial.

Results

The NDI and VAS scores in both groups statistically decreased after intervention and mildly increased at follow-up, while the reduction in scores of the Yi Jin Jing group was more significant. Cervical curvature in both groups improved on day 28 compared to day 0. There were no adverse reactions during the evaluation period.

Conclusion

The Chinese health-care qigong Yi Jin Jing exercise is more effective than brisk walking in improving the cervical range of motion and relieving pain in adolescents with cervical spondylopathy. Trial registration/Protocol registration: Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000030723).

Immunogenicity and efficacy of pembrolizumab and doxorubicin in a phase I trial for patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer

Currently there is a limited understanding for the optimal combination of immune checkpoint inhibitor and chemotherapy for patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC). Here we evaluate the safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity of a phase I trial for patients with mTNBC treated with pembrolizumab plus doxorubicin. Patients without prior anthracycline use and 0-2 lines of prior systemic chemotherapies received pembrolizumab and doxorubicin every 3 weeks for 6 cycles followed by pembrolizumab maintenance until disease progression or intolerance. The primary objectives were safety and objective response rate per RECIST 1.1. Best responses included one complete response (CR), five partial responses (PR), two stable disease (SD), and one progression of disease (PD). Overall response rate was 67% (95% CI 13.7%, 78.8%) and clinical benefit rate at 6 months was 56% (95% CI 21.2%, 86.3%). Median PFS was 5.2 months (95% CI 4.7, NA); median OS was 15.6 months (95% CI 13.3, NA). Grade 3-4 AEs per CTCAE 4.0 were neutropenia n = 4/10 (40%), leukopenia n = 2/10 (20%), lymphopenia n = 2/10 (20%), fatigue n = 2/10 (20%), and oral mucositis n = 1/10 (10%). Immune correlates showed increased frequencies of circulating CD3 + T cells (p = 0.03) from pre-treatment to cycle 2 day 1 (C2D1). An expansion of a proliferative exhausted-like PD-1 + CD8 + T cell population was identified in 8/9 patients, and exhausted CD8 + T cells were significantly expanded from pre-treatment to C2D1 in the patient with CR (p = 0.01). In summary, anthracycline-naïve patients with mTNBC treated with the combination of pembrolizumab and doxorubicin showed an encouraging response rate and robust T cell response dynamics.Trial registration: NCT02648477.

The combined effect of fire and nitrogen addition on biodiversity and herbaceous aboveground productivity in a coastal shrubland

Introduction

Fire and nitrogen (N) deposition each impact biodiversity and ecosystem productivity. However, the effect of N deposition on ecosystem recovery after fire is still far from understood, especially in coastal wetlands.

Methods

We selected a typical coastal shrubland to simulate three N deposition levels (0, 10, and 20 g N m-2 year-1) under two different burned conditions (unburned and burned) in the Yellow River Delta of North China. Soil properties, soil microbial biodiversity, shrub growth parameters, herbaceous biodiversity, and aboveground productivity were determined after experimental treatments for 1 year.

Results

We found that fire had a stronger influence on the ecosystem than N addition. One year after the fire, shrub growth had significantly decreased, while soil pH, soil electrical conductivity, herbaceous biodiversity, soil microbial biodiversity, and herbaceous aboveground productivity significantly increased. Conversely, a single year of N addition only slightly increased herbaceous aboveground productivity. The combined effect of fire and N addition was only significant for fungus biodiversity and otherwise had minimal influence. Interestingly, we found that herbaceous aboveground productivity was positively associated with fungal community diversity under unburned conditions but not in burned shrublands. Fire showed a great impact on soil parameters and biodiversity in the coastal wetland ecosystem even after a full year of recovery.

Discussion

Fire may also diminish the influence of several belowground factors on herbaceous aboveground productivity, which ultimately reduces recovery and stability. Appropriate N addition may be an effective way to improve the ecosystem productivity in a wetland dominated by shrub species.

Dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging features and apparent diffusion coefficient value of HER2-positive/HR-negative breast carcinoma

Background

According to hormone receptor (HR) status, human epidermal growth factor 2 positive (HER2+) breast carcinoma can be divided into HR- and HR+, with different treatment and prognosis. We analyzed the dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) findings, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value and the combination of DCE-MRI and ADC value of HER2+/HR- breast carcinoma.

Methods

Totally 259 cases (96 HR-, 163 HR+) of pathologically verified HER2+ breast carcinoma were collected. Patients underwent DCE-MRI and diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). The morphological characteristics, internal enhancement characteristics, early enhancement rate (EER), and time-signal intensity curves (TIC) were recorded, and ADC values were measured. The relationship between each feature and HER2+/HR- breast cancer was analyzed. Area under the cures (AUC) was used to compare diagnostic performance of DCE-MRI, ADC value and the combination of DCE-MRI and ADC value.

Results

HER2+/HR- breast cancer presented as non-mass enhancement (NME), mass with NME, whereas HER2+/HR+ breast cancer presented as mass (P<0.001). HR- cases showed a round or oval shape with circumscribed margins, whereas HR+ cases showed an irregular mass with irregular or spiculated margins (P=0.001, P=0.028). The size of the mass, the internal enhancement characteristics, EER, and TIC did not differ significantly between the two HER2+ breast carcinomas. The ADC values for HR- and HR+ breast cancers were [1.2 (1.14, 1.33)] ×10-3 mm2/s and [1.0 (0.89, 1.11)] ×10-3 mm2/s, respectively, which were statistically significant (Z=-9.119, P<0.001). The ADC value can be used for diagnosing HER2+/HR- breast carcinoma, with the threshold value of 1.095×10-3 mm2/s [negative predictive value (NPV) of 89.8%, sensitivity of 86.5% and specificity of 70.6%]. The AUCs of ADC value, DCE-MRI, and DCE-MRI combined with ADC value were 0.839, 0.689 and 0.860, respectively. AUC of the DCE-MRI combined with ADC value was significantly higher than DCE-MRI alone (P<0.0001).

Conclusions

The diagnostic performance of the DCE-MRI combined with ADC value was good in diagnosing HER2+/HR- breast cancers. MRI is an effective tool in diagnosing HER2+/HR- breast carcinoma, which will help select the clinical treatment plan and determine the prognosis.

99mTc-MDP bone scintigraphy-based growth evaluation and prediction of epiphysis around the knee: a study of paediatric limb salvage for malignant bone tumours

AIM

To investigate the feasibility of bone scintigraphy in the assessment and prediction of bone growth potential after limb-salvage surgery in children with bone tumours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-five skeletally immature patients with primary bone malignancies in distal femur was enrolled. Thirty-two patients received epiphysis minimally invasive endoprosthesis (EMIE) reconstruction, seven received hemiarthroplasty, and 16 received adult-type rotation-hinged endoprosthesis (ATRHE) reconstruction. All enrolled patients underwent radiographic examination at regular intervals and followed-up for >12 months. The actual limb length discrepancy (LLDa) of the tibia was measured on the radiography image. The expected LLD of tibia (LLDp) was calculated according to multiplier method. The uptake ratio of the ipsilateral epiphysis to the contralateral epiphysis (Ri/c) was calculated at bone scintigraphy. The Ri/c value was accommodated in the formula of multiplier method for a modification. The difference and correlation between the modified expected LLD (LLDm), LLDp and LLDa were analysed.

RESULTS

The growth potential of ipsilateral epiphysis was reserved in all patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty and one fourth of EMIE reconstruction. The Ri/c values in the hemiarthroplasty endoprosthesis group were significantly higher than the EMIE and ATRHE groups. There was no significant difference in Ri/c values between the EMIE and ATRHE group. Data from the 26 patients who reached bone maturation showed that there was a significant difference between LLDp and LLDa. LLDm showed a higher correlation with LLDa than LLDp.

CONCLUSION

Bone scintigraphy is helpful to evaluate the growth potential of epiphysis after surgery. The multiplier method modified by Ri/c value improves prediction accuracy of bone growth.