A CTL - Lys immune function maintains insect metamorphosis by preventing gut bacterial dysbiosis and limiting opportunistic infections

BACKGROUND

Gut bacteria are beneficial to the host, many of which must be passed on to host offspring. During metamorphosis, the midgut of holometabolous insects undergoes histolysis and remodeling, and thus risks losing gut bacteria. Strategies employed by holometabolous insects to minimize this risk are obscure. How gut bacteria affect host insects after entering the hemocoel and causing opportunistic infections remains largely elusive.

RESULTS

We used holometabolous Helicoverpa armigera as a model and found low Lactobacillus load, high level of a C-type lectin (CTL) gene CD209 antigen-like protein 2 (CD209) and its downstream lysozyme 1 (Lys1) in the midgut of the wandering stage. CD209 or Lys1 depletion increased the load of midgut Lactobacillus, which further translocate to the hemocoel. In particular, CD209 or Lys1 depletion, injection of Lactobacillus plantarum, or translocation of midgut L. plantarum into the hemocoel suppressed 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) signaling and delayed pupariation. Injection of L. plantarum decreased triacylglycerol and cholesterol storage, which may result in insufficient energy and 20E available for pupariation. Further, Lysine-type peptidoglycan, the major component of gram-positive bacterial cell wall, contributed to delayed pupariation and decreased levels of triacylglycerols, cholesterols, and 20E, in both H. armigera and Drosophila melanogaster.

CONCLUSIONS

A mechanism by which (Lactobacillus-induced) opportunistic infections delay insect metamorphosis was found, namely by disturbing the homeostasis of lipid metabolism and reducing 20E production. Moreover, the immune function of CTL - Lys was characterized for insect metamorphosis by maintaining gut homeostasis and limiting the opportunistic infections.

Functional enrichment analysis reveals the involvement of DARS2 in multiple biological pathways and its potential as a therapeutic target in esophageal carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

The enzyme Aspartyl tRNA synthetase 2 (DARS2) is a crucial enzyme in the mitochondrial tRNA synthesis pathway, playing a critical role in maintaining normal mitochondrial function and protein synthesis. However, the role of DARS2 in ESCA is unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Transcriptional data of pan-cancer and ESCA were downloaded from UCSC XENA, TCGA, and GEO databases to analyze the differential expression of DARS2 between tumor samples and normal samples, and its correlation with clinicopathological features of ESCA patients. R was used for GO, KEGG, and GSEA functional enrichment analysis of DARS2 co-expression and to analyze the connection of DARS2 with glycolysis and m6A-related genes. In vitro experiments were performed to assess the effects of interfering with DARS2 expression on ESCA cells. TarBase v.8, mirDIP, miRTarBase, ENCORI, and miRNet databases were used to analyze and construct a ceRNA network containing DARS2.

RESULTS

DARS2 was overexpressed in various types of tumors. In vitro experiments confirmed that interfering with DARS2 expression significantly affected the proliferation, migration, apoptosis, cell cycle, and glycolysis of ESCA cells. DARS2 may be involved in multiple biological pathways related to tumor development. Furthermore, correlation and differential analysis revealed that DARS2 may regulate ESCA m6A modification through its interaction with METTL3 and YTHDF1. A ceRNA network containing DARS2, DLEU2/has-miR-30a-5p/DARS2, was successfully predicted and constructed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal the upregulation of DARS2 in ESCA and its association with clinical features, glycolysis pathway, m6A modification, and ceRNA network. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying ESCA.

TRIP6 a potential diagnostic marker for colorectal cancer with glycolysis and immune infiltration association

Thyroid hormone receptor interactor 6 (TRIP6) it is an adaptor protein belonging to the zyxin family of LIM proteins, participating in signaling events through interactions with various molecules. Despite this, TRIP6's role in colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly its correlation with glucose metabolism and immune cell infiltration, remains unclear. Through the TCGA and GEO databases, we obtained RNA sequencing data to facilitate our in-depth study and analysis of TRIP6 expression. To investigate the prognostic value of TRIP6 in CRC, we also used univariate Cox regression analysis. In addition, this study also covered a series of analyses, including clinicopathological analysis, functional enrichment analysis, glycolysis correlation analysis, immunoinfiltration analysis, immune checkpoint analysis, and angiogenesis correlation analysis, to gain a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of this biological phenomenon. It has been found that TRIP6 expression is significantly upregulated in CRC and correlates with the stage of the disease. Its overexpression portends a worse survival time. Functional enrichment analysis reveals that TRIP6 is associated with focal adhesion and glycolysis. Mechanistically, TRIP6 appears to exert its tumorigenic effect by regulating the glycolysis-related gene GPI. A higher level of expression of TRIP6 is associated with an increase in the number of iDC immune cells and a decrease in the number of Th1 immune cells. Also, TRIP6 may promote angiogenesis in tumor cells by promoting the expression of JAG2. Our study uncovers the upregulation of TRIP6 in CRC, illuminating its prognostic and diagnostic value within this context. Furthermore, we examine the relationship between TRIP6 expression levels, glycolysis, angiogenesis and immune cell infiltration. This underscores its potential as a biomarker for CRC treatment and as a therapeutic target.

Therapeutic potential for renal fibrosis by targeting Smad3-dependent noncoding RNAs

Renal fibrosis is a characteristic hallmark of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that ultimately results in renal failure, leaving patients with few therapeutic options. TGF-β is a master regulator of renal fibrosis and mediates progressive renal fibrosis via both canonical and noncanonical signaling pathways. In the canonical Smad signaling, Smad3 is a key mediator in tissue fibrosis and mediates renal fibrosis via a number of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). In this regard, targeting Smad3-dependent ncRNAs may offer a specific therapy for renal fibrosis. This review highlights the significance and innovation of TGF-β/Smad3-associated ncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in renal fibrogenesis. In addition, the underlying mechanisms of these ncRNAs and their future perspectives in the treatment of renal fibrosis are discussed.

SFXN1 as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of LUAD is associated with 18F-FDG metabolic parameters

BACKGROUND

Sideroflexin 1 (SFXN1) has been discovered as a novel tumor marker for lung adenocarcinoma, but data on its importance in the development of lung adenocarcinoma is still limited. This study evaluated the correlation between SFXN1 and parameters related to 18F-flurodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), and further explored the role of SFXN1 in the value-added and glycolytic processes of LUAD.

METHOD

The expression and prognostic value of SFXN1 mRNA in LUAD were analyzed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data base. Retrospective analysis of 18F-FDG PET imaging and metabolic parameters in 42 patients to explore the relationship between the expression of SFXN1 and glucose metabolism levels in lung adenocarcinoma and its clinical significance. H1975 cells were selected as the in vitro research object, and the biological effects of SFXN1 on LUAD were further elucidated through Edu proliferation assay, CCK8 activity assay, wound healing experiment, and cell flow cytometry.

RESULT

SFXN1 is highly expressed in various tumors, including LUAD, and its high expression can serve as an independent predictor of overall survival in lung adenocarcinoma. In addition, the expression of SFXN1 in LUAD was significantly correlated with 18F-FDG PET/CT parameters: maximum and average standardized uptake values (SUVmax and SUVmean), as well as total lesion glycolysis (TLG) (rho = 0.574, 0.589, and 0.338, p < 0.05), which can predict the expression of SFXN1 with an accuracy of 0.934. In vitro functional experiments have shown that knocking down SFXN1 inhibits the proliferation and migration of LUAD cells, promotes cell apoptosis, and may inhibit tumor activity by regulating the expression of glycolytic related genes SLC2A1, HK2, GPI, ALDOA, GAPDH, ENO1, PKM, and LDHA.

CONCLUSION

The overexpression of SFXN1 is closely related to FDG uptake, and SFXN1, as a promising prognostic biomarker, may mediate the development of LUAD through the glycolytic pathway.

Uterine Burkitt Lymphoma with Rare Extranodal Deposits in the Bone, Breast, and Sacral Canal: A Case Report

Burkitt lymphoma is a highly invasive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Sporadic Burkitt's lymphoma is commonly found in the abdomen. However, Burkitt lymphoma infiltrating the uterus is uncommon in occurrence. We report the results of 18F-FDG PET/CT examination of a 36-year-old woman. The report indicates that in addition to the strong uptake of FDG imaging agent in the uterus, bilateral cervical and abdominal lymph nodes also have strong activity. At the same time, it was also found that bilateral small breast nodules, sacral canal and multiple bones in the whole body showed a radiation uptake pattern similar to that of the uterus. 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging can help determine the extent of the disease and the affected body area, which is helpful to guide the treatment decision. This case report shows the application of 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging in the diagnosis, staging and post-treatment evaluation of Burkitt lymphoma of the uterus. It provides very useful information for clinicians and helps to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment effect.

SPC25 as a novel therapeutic and prognostic biomarker and its association with glycolysis, ferroptosis and ceRNA in lung adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVE

Spindle pole body component 25 (SPC25) is an important cyclin involved in chromosome segregation and spindle dynamics regulation during mitosis. However, the role of SPC25 in lung adenocarcinoma (LAUD) is unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The differential expression of SPC25 in tumor samples and normal samples was analyzed using TIMER, TCGA, GEO databases, and the correlation between its expression and clinicopathological features and prognosis in LUAD patients. Biological pathways that may be enriched by SPC25 were analyzed using GSEA. In vitro cell experiments were used to evaluate the effect of knocking down SPC25 expression on LUAD cells. Correlation analysis and differential analysis were used to assess the association of SPC25 expression with genes related to cell cycle, glycolysis, and ferroptosis. A ceRNA network involving SPC25 was constructed using multiple database analyses.

RESULTS

SPC25 was highly expressed in LUAD, and its expression level could guide staging and predict prognosis. GSEA found that high expression of SPC25 involved multiple cell cycles and glycolytic pathways. Knocking down SPC25 expression significantly affected the proliferation, migration and apoptosis of LUAD cells. Abnormal SPC25 expression levels can affect cell cycle progression, glycolytic ability and ferroptosis regulation. A ceRNA network containing SPC25, SNHG15/hsa-miR-451a/SPC25, was successfully predicted and constructed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings reveal the association of up-regulation of SPC25 in LUAD and its expression with clinical features, prognosis prediction, proliferation migration, cell cycle, glycolysis, ferroptosis, and ceRNA networks. Our results indicate that SPC25 can be used as a biomarker in LUAD therapy and a target for therapeutic intervention.

Lipid parameters, adipose tissue distribution and prognosis prediction in chronic kidney Disease patients

BACKGROUND

Lipid management in clinic is critical to the prevention and treatment of Chronic kidney disease (CKD), while the manifestations of lipid indicators vary in types and have flexible association with CKD prognosis.

PURPOSE

Explore the associations between the widely used indicators of lipid metabolism and their distribution in clinic and CKD prognosis; provide a reference for lipid management and inform treatment decisions for patients with non-dialysis CKD stage 3-5.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study utilizing the Self-Management Program for Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Cohort (SMP-CKD) database of 794 individuals with CKD stages 3-5. It covers demographic data, clinical diagnosis and medical history collection, laboratory results, circulating lipid profiles and lipid distribution assessments. Primary endpoint was defined as a composite outcome(the initiation of chronic dialysis or renal transplantation, sustained decline of 40% or more in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), doubled of serum creatinine (SCr) from the baseline, eGFR less than 5 mL/min/1.73m2, or all-cause mortality). Exposure variables were circulating lipid profiles and lipid distribution measurements. Association were assessed using Relative risks (RRs) (95% confidence intervals (CIs)) computed by multivariate Poisson models combined with least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression according to categories of lipid manifestations. The best model was selected via akaike information criterion (AIC), area under curve (AUC), receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and net reclassification index (NRI). Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed to assess the interaction effects and robustness..

RESULTS

255 individuals reached the composite outcome. Median follow-up duration was 2.03 [1.06, 3.19] years. Median age was 58.8 [48.7, 67.2] years with a median eGFR of 33.7 [17.6, 47.8] ml/min/1.73 m2. Five dataset were built after multiple imputation and five category-based Possion models were constructed for each dataset. Model 5 across five datasets had the best fitness with smallest AIC and largest AUC. The pooled results of Model 5 showed that total cholesterol (TC) (RR (95%CI) (per mmol/L) :1.143[1.023,1.278], P = 0.018) and percentage of body fat (PBF) (RR (95%CI) (per percentage):0.976[0.961,0.992], P = 0.003) were significant factors of composite outcome. The results indicated that comprehensive consideration of lipid metabolism and fat distribution is more critical in the prediction of CKD prognosis..

CONCLUSION

Comprehensive consideration of lipid manifestations is optimal in predicting the prognosis of individuals with non-dialysis CKD stages 3-5.

DARS2 overexpression is associated with PET/CT metabolic parameters and affects glycolytic activity in lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the correlation between the expression of DARS2 and metabolic parameters of 18F-FDG PET/CT, and explored the potential mechanisms of DARS2 affecting the proliferation and glycolysis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cells.

METHODS

This study used genomics and proteomics to analyze the difference in DARS2 expression between LUAD samples and control samples. An analysis of 62 patients with LUAD who underwent 18F-FDG PET/CT examinations before surgery was conducted retrospectively. The correlation between DARS2 expression and PET/CT metabolic parameters, including SUVmax, SUVmean, MTV, and TLG, was examined by Spearman correlation analysis. In addition, the molecular mechanism of interfering with DARS2 expression in inhibiting LUAD cell proliferation and glycolysis was analyzed through in vitro cell experiments.

RESULTS

DARS2 expression was significantly higher in LUAD samples than in control samples (p < 0.001). DARS2 has high specificity (98.4%) and sensitivity (95.2%) in the diagnosis of LUAD. DARS2 expression was positively correlated with SUVmax, SUVmean, and TLG (p < 0.001). At the same time, the sensitivity and specificity of SUVmax in predicting DARS2 overexpression in LUAD were 88.9% and 65.9%, respectively. In vitro cell experiments have shown that interfering with DARS2 expression can inhibit the proliferation and migration of LUAD cells, promote cell apoptosis, and inhibit the glycolytic activity of tumor cells by inhibiting the expression of glycolytic related genes SLC2A1, GPI, ALDOA, and PGAM1.

CONCLUSIONS

Overexpression of DARS2 is associated with metabolic parameters on 18F-FDG PET/CT, which can improve LUAD diagnosis accuracy. DARS2 may be a useful biomarker to diagnose, prognosis, and target treatment of LUAD patients.

An entomopathogenic fungus exploits its host humoral antibacterial immunity to minimize bacterial competition in the hemolymph

BACKGROUND

The insect hemolymph (blood-equivalent fluid), composed of a large number of hemocytes (blood cells) and a variety of soluble immune effectors, is hostile for pathogens including fungi. In order to survive in the insect hemocoel (body cavity), the entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) has evolved two classical coping strategies, namely evasion and suppression of the host immune reactions. However, it remains unclear whether EPF has other ways of coping with host immunity.

RESULTS

In this study, we demonstrated that Metarhizium rileyi (an EPF) infection by injection of blastospores into the hemocoel enhanced the plasma antibacterial activity of cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera), which was partially due to the enhanced expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). The early stage of M. rileyi infection induced the translocation of gut bacteria into the hemocoel, where they were subsequently cleared due to the enhanced plasma antibacterial activity. Further, we showed that the enhanced plasma antibacterial activity and AMP expression were attributable to M. rileyi but not the invasive gut bacteria (opportunistic bacteria). Elevated ecdysone (major steroid hormone in insects) levels in the hemolymph at 48 h post-M. rileyi infection might contribute to the enhanced expression of AMPs. The fungus-elicited AMPs, such as cecropin 3 or lebocin, exhibited potent inhibitory activity against the opportunistic bacteria but not against hyphal bodies. In addition, the opportunistic bacteria competed with hyphal bodies for amino acid nutrients.

CONCLUSIONS

M. rileyi infection induced the translocation of gut bacteria, and then the fungi activated and exploited its host humoral antibacterial immunity to eliminate opportunistic bacteria, preventing them from competing for nutrients in the hemolymph. Unlike the classical strategies, EPF utilizes to evade or suppress host immunity, our findings reveal a novel strategy of interaction between EPF and host immunity. Video Abstract.

[HIV self-testing and related factors in men who have sex with men in Shijiazhuang]

Objective: To understand HIV self-testing and related factors in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shijiazhuang. Methods: From August to September 2020, convenient sampling was used to recruit MSM in Shijiazhuang. Online questionnaires were used to collect information about their demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors and HIV self-testing. logistic regression model was used to analyze the related factors associated with HIV self-testing. Results: In the 304 MSM respondents, 52.3% (159/304) had HIV self-testing in the past 6 months, and 95.0% (151/159) used fingertip blood HIV detection reagent. Self-purchase was the main way to obtain HIV testing reagents (45.9%, 73/159), followed by supply from MSM social organization (44.7%, 71/159). The reasons for having HIV self-testing were non-specific testing time (67.9%, 108/159) and privacy protection (62.9%,100/159), the reasons for having no HIV self-testing included inability of using (32.4%, 47/145), being unaware of HIV self-testing reagent (24.1%, 35/145), and worry about inaccurate self-testing results (19.3%, 28/145). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that being 18-29 years old (aOR=2.68, 95%CI: 1.20-5.94), obtaining free HIV self-testing kits in recent 6 months (aOR=8.61, 95%CI: 4.09-18.11) and making friends through Internet and social software (aOR=2.68, 95%CI: 1.48-4.88) were positive factors for having HIV self-testing. Conclusion: HIV self-testing is a more flexible and convenient way to detect HIV in MSM, and the promotion of HIV self-testing in MSM should be strengthened to further increase the HIV detection rate in this population.

An investigation of low-protein diets' qualification rates and an analysis of their short-term effects for patients with CKD stages 3-5: a single-center retrospective cohort study from China

BACKGROUND

The feasibility and efficacy of low-protein diets (LPD) treatment in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is controversial. Based on the characteristics of the Chinese diet, we observe the qualification rates and short-term clinical effects of LPD for CKD patients in our center.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study. CKD stages 3-5 patients who were regularly followed up 5 times (over 2 years) and treated with LPD were included. We collected clinical data to observe the changes in LPD qualification rates and divided patients into LPD and non-LPD group according to the average dietary protein intake (DPI) of 5 follow-up time points and compared the changes in primary and secondary outcome measures between the two groups.

RESULTS

We analyzed data from 161 eligible CKD stages 3-5 patients. From baseline to the 5th follow-up time point, the LPD qualification rates of all patients were 11.80%, 35.40%, 47.82%, 53.43% and 54.04%, respectively. For primary outcome measures, the urine protein/creatinine ratio (UPCR) decreased more in the LPD group than in the non-LPD group [Median (interquartile range, IQR) of the difference between the 5th follow-up time point and baseline: 0.19 (- 0.01-0.73) vs. 0.10 (- 0.08-0.27), P < 0.001]. We constructed three classes of mixed linear models (model I, II, III). The UPCR slopes were all negative in the LPD group and positive in the non-LPD group (P < 0.001). Meanwhile, in model I, the estimate glomerular filtration rate(eGFR) decline slope in the LPD group was lower than that in the non-LPD group [slope (standard error): - 1.32 (0.37) vs. - 2.35 (0.33), P = 0.036]. For secondary outcome measures, body mass index (BMI) triglycerides (TG), body weight, and fat free mass (FFM) showed stable statistical differences in the comparison of LPD and non-LPD groups, with greater declines in the former.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that LPD treatment can reduce UPCR in patients with CKD stages 3-5, and may also delay the decline in eGFR. Meanwhile, it also reduces BMI, TG, body weight, and FFM, thus the need to prevent malnutrition in clinical implementation.

Identification and analysis of C-type lectins from Helicoverpa armigera in response to the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium rileyi infection

C-type lectins (CTLs) function as pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and play an important role in the innate immunity of insects. To investigate the role of CTLs in the antifungal responses, we analyzed expression profiles of 36 CTLs of Helicoverpa armigera in the tissues (hemocytes, fat bodies, and midgut) after the infection by entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium rileyi. The expression levels of many HaCTLs were found to be up-regulated after the infection. Four recombinant HaCTLs (rHaCTL11, rHaCTL12, rHaCTL27, and rHaCTL45) were expressed and purified. Analysis of the purified rHaCTLs revealed that rHaCTLs were able to bind to conidia and hyphal bodies of M. rileyi, and the affinity of rHaCTL11 and rHaCTL27 for hyphal bodies was weaker than for conidia. All these rHaCTLs agglutinate conidia and hyphal bodies in a calcium (Ca²⁺) dependent manner. Sugar specificity assays showed that d-trehalose, mannan, β-1,3-glucan, d-galactose, glucose, d-raffinose, lipopolysaccharide, and d-xylose can inhibit the binding of HaCTLs to M. rileyi. Additionally, survival assays showed that pretreatment of fungal conidia with rHaCTL11 significantly reduced the rate of host death, and knockdown of HaCTL11 significantly increased H. armigera sensitivity to fungal infection. These results suggest that HaCTLs play significant role as PRRs in the defense of H. armigera against M. rileyi infection.

DARS2 is a prognostic biomarker and correlated with immune infiltrates and cuproptosis in lung adenocarcinoma

Overexpression of DARS2 may enhance the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there are few extensive reports on DARS2 function in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The differential expression of DARS2 was detected by genomics and in vitro experiments, and the effect of DARS2 expression on LUAD cell activity was analyzed. Functional enrichment analysis was performed to explore possible signal pathways involved in the biological functions of DARS2 and its co-expressed genes. Utilizing TIMER and GEPIA datasets, the association between DARS2 expression and immunological infiltrating cells was analyzed. At the same time, the association between DARS2 expression pattern and LUAD m6A modification and cuproptosis was examined utilizing TCGA and GEO datasets. The level of DARS2 in LUAD increased, and inhibition of DARS2 expression could significantly inhibit the proliferation of LUAD cells. ROC curves showed that DARS2 overexpression could accurately diagnose LUAD and lead to a significant decline in the survival rates of OS, DSS, and PFI in LUAD. Enrichment analysis showed that DARS2 and its co-expressed genes were closely associated with chromosome segregation and the cell cycle. TIMER and GEPIA database analysis demonstrated that the DARS2 expression pattern was adversely correlated with the infiltration of B cells and Tfh cells. TCGA and GEO dataset examination revealed that DARS2 expression was significantly linked to four m6A-related genes and one cuproptosis-related gene. DARS2 expression is increased in LUAD patients and is closely associated with LUAD immune cell infiltration, modification of m6A, and cuproptosis. DARS2 is a potential reliable prognostic biomarker of LUAD.

Magnetic resonance imaging and 18F-fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography findings of retroperitoneal clear cell carcinoma with an unknown primary site: A case report

Herein, we report a case of retroperitoneal clear cell carcinoma (RCCC) with an unknown primary site that was confirmed via pathology. A 46-year-old man presented with low-grade fever, hyperhidrosis, and nightly fatigue that had occurred for the last 20 days. His weight had decreased significantly within the past 2 months (approximately 12 kg). On abdominal ultrasound, a mass was observed near the left renal hilum. In addition, enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the abdomen revealed a retroperitoneal nodular mass; however, no abnormalities in either kidney or adrenal glands were observed. 18F-fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) demonstrated an intensely FDG-avid retroperitoneal mass, the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was 19.6. On March 8, 2021, left retroperitoneal lesion resection, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection, and double kidney exploration were performed under general anesthesia. A post-operative pathological examination revealed Poorly differentiated clear cell carcinoma (left retroperitoneal) and metastatic lymph nodes. Immunohistochemical findings showed that the tumor originated from the kidney. At 6-month follow-up, reexamination of the patient revealed retroperitoneal lesion recurrence; however, no abnormalities were observable via enhanced computed tomography (CT) of both kidneys. To our knowledge, there have been no previous reports of RCCC of unknown origin.

High expression of HNRNPR in ESCA combined with 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters are novel biomarkers for preoperative diagnosis of ESCA

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the expression and function of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein R (HNRNPR) in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA), the correlation between its expression and ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (¹⁸F-FDG) positron emission tomography/computerized tomography scan (PET/CT)-related parameters. We also investigated whether ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT can be used to predict the expression of HNRNPR in ESCA.

Methods

We analyzed patients with ESCA who underwent ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT before surgery, and their tissues were stained with HNRNPR IHC. The associated parameters were derived using the ¹⁸F-FDG PET imaging data, and the correlation with the IHC score was evaluated. The Oncomine, TCGA, and GEO datasets were used to investigate HNRNPR expression in the pan- and esophageal cancers, as well as its relationship with N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and glycolysis. The R software, LinkedOmics, GeneMANIA, and StringOnline tools were used to perform GO/KEGG, GGI, and PPI analyses on the HNRNPR.

Results

HNRNPR is highly expressed in the majority of pan-cancers, including ESCA, and is associated with BMI, weight, and history of reflux in patients with ESCA. HNRNPR is somewhat accurate in predicting the clinical prognosis of ESCA. HNRNPR expression was positively correlated with SUV_max, SUV_mean, and TLG in ESCA (p < 0.05). The combination of these three variables provides a strong predictive value for HNRNPR expression in ESCA. GO/KEGG analysis showed that HNRNPR played a role in the regulation of cell cycle, DNA replication, and the Fannie anemia pathway. The analysis of the TCGA and GEO data sets revealed a significant correlation between HNRNPR expression and m6A and glycolysis-related genes. GSEA analysis revealed that HNRNPR was involved in various m6A and glycolysis related-pathways.

Conclusion

HNRNPR overexpression correlates with ¹⁸F-FDG uptake in ESCA and may be involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, m6A modification, and cell glycolysis. ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT-related parameters can predict the diagnostic accuracy of HNRNPR expression in ESCA.

Nucleophosmin 1 is a prognostic marker of gastrointestinal cancer and is associated with m6A and cuproptosis

Background: NPM1 is highly expressed in a variety of solid tumors and promotes tumor development. However, there are few comprehensive studies on NPM1 analysis in gastrointestinal cancer.

Methods: We used bioinformatics tools to study the expression difference of NPM1 between gastrointestinal cancer and control group, and analyzed the relationship between its expression level and the diagnosis, prognosis, functional signaling pathway, immune infiltration, m6A and cuproptosis related genes of gastrointestinal cancer. At the same time, the expression difference of NPM1 between esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) samples and control samples was verified by in vitro experiments.

Results: NPM1 was overexpressed in gastrointestinal cancer. In vitro experiments confirmed that the expression of NPM1 in ESCA samples was higher than that in normal samples. The expression of NPM1 has high accuracy in predicting the outcome of gastrointestinal cancer. The expression of NPM1 is closely related to the prognosis of multiple gastrointestinal cancers. Go and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that NPM1 co-expressed genes involved in a variety of biological functions. NPM1 expression is potentially associated with a variety of immune cell infiltration, m6A and cuproptosis related genes in gastrointestinal cancers.

Conclusion: NPM1 can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic marker of gastrointestinal cancer, which is related to the immune cell infiltration and the regulation of m6A and cuproptosis.

Protective effect of quercetin on kidney diseases: From chemistry to herbal medicines

Kidney injuries may trigger renal fibrosis and lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD), but effective therapeutic strategies are still limited. Quercetin is a natural flavonoid widely distributed in herbal medicines. A large number of studies have demonstrated that quercetin may protect kidneys by alleviating renal toxicity, apoptosis, fibrosis and inflammation in a variety of kidney diseases. Therefore, quercetin could be one of the promising drugs in the treatment of renal disorders. In the present study, we review the latest progress and highlight the beneficial role of quercetin in kidney diseases and its underlying mechanisms. The pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of quercetin and its proportion in herbal medicine will also be discussed.

Comprehensive Analysis of SLC17A9 and Its Prognostic Value in Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background

Solute carrier family 17 member 9 (SLC17A9) encodes a member of a family of transmembrane proteins that are involved in the transport of small molecules. SLC17A9 is involved in the occurrence and development of various cancers, but its biological role in liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is unclear.

Methods

The expression level of SLC17A9 was assessed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and immunohistochemistry of tumor tissues and adjacent normal liver tissues. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and R software package performed diagnosis and prognosis. Gene Ontology/Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes functional enrichment and co-expression of SLC17A9, gene–gene interaction (GGI), and protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were performed using R, GeneMANIA, and STRING. Western blot, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), immunofluorescence, colony formation, wound scratch assay, ATP production assays, and high connotation were applied to determine the effect of SLC17A9 knockdown on HEPG2 (hepatocellular liver carcinoma) cells. TIMER, GEPIA, and TCGA analyzed the relationship between SLC17A9 expression and immune cells, m6A modification, and ferroptosis.

Results

SLC17A9 expression in LIHC tissues was higher than in normal liver tissues (p < 0.001), and SLC17A9 was related to sex, DSS (disease-specific survival), and PFI (progression-free interval) (p = 0.015, 0.006, and 0.023). SLC17A9 expression has diagnostic (AUC: 0.812; CI: 0.770–0.854) and prognostic potential (p = 0.015) in LIHC. Gene Ontology/Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (GO/KEGG) functional enrichment analysis showed that SLC17A9 was closely related to neuronal cell body, presynapse, axonogenesis, PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. GGI showed that SLC17A9 was closely related to MYO5A. PPI showed that SLC17A9 was closely related to SLC18A3. SLC17A9 silencing inhibited HepG2 cells proliferation, migration, colony formation, and reduced their ATP level. SLC17A9 expression level was related to immune cells: B cells (r = 0.094, P = 8.06E-02), CD4⁺ T cells (r = 0.184, P = 5.95E-04), and macrophages (r = 0.137, P = 1.15E-02); m6A modification: HNRNPC (r = 0.220, p < 0.001), METTL3 (r = 0.180, p < 0.001), and WTAP (r = 0.130, p = 0.009); and ferroptosis: HSPA5 (r = 0.240, p < 0.001), SLC7A11 (r = 0.180, p < 0.001), and FANCD2 (r = 0.280, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our data show that SLC17A9 may influence LIHC progression. SLC17A9 expression correlates with tumor immune infiltration, m6A modification, and ferroptosis in LIHC and may have diagnostic and prognostic value in LIHC.

Infection of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium rileyi suppresses cellular immunity and activates humoral antibacterial immunity of the host Spodoptera frugiperda

BACKGROUND

Metarhizium rileyi is an entomopathogenic fungus with promising potential for controlling agricultural pests, including Spodoptera frugiperda. Following penetration of the host through the cuticle, M. rileyi cells transform into in vivo blastospores or hyphal bodies, propagating within the hemocoel. However, the strategies and molecular mechanisms by which M. rileyi survives upon exposure to the powerful insect immune system remain unclear.

RESULTS

We determined the pathogenicity of M. rileyi and found that either conidial immersion or blastospore injection significantly decreased S. frugiperda survival in a dose-dependent manner. Injection of M. rileyi blastospores decreased the number of S. frugiperda hemocytes and impaired host cellular reactions such as nodulation, encapsulation and phagocytosis. Blastospore injection led to increased antibacterial activity in plasma at 48 h post-injection (hpi). RNA-sequencing analyses identified a large number of antimicrobial peptide genes upregulated in the fat body of M. rileyi-infected larvae at 48 hpi, which may be attributable to the activation of Toll and IMD signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that the compromised cellular immunity of the insect host is due to the marked decrease in hemocytes and impaired cellular cytoskeletons, which may facilitate early infection by M. rileyi. Late in the course of infection, the enhanced antibacterial activity of plasma, which may be in response to intestinal evading bacteria, cannot inhibit hyphal growth in hemolymph. Our data provide a comprehensive resource for exploring the molecular mechanism employed by M. rileyi to overcome S. frugiperda immunity. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Calcium and integrin-binding protein 1-like interacting with an integrin α-cytoplasmic domain facilitates cellular immunity in Helicoverpa armigera

Integrins are transmembrane receptor heterodimers composed of α and β subunits. They are known to mediate extracellular signals to promote cell adhesion and spreading, and are therefore essential for cellular immunity. However, proteins that bind to integrin cytoplasmic domains and mediate intracellular signaling to promote cell adhesion require identification. Calcium and integrin-binding protein 1 (CIB1) that binds to the integrin α-cytoplasmic domain has rarely been examined in insects. In this study, we found that 20-hydroxyecdysone promoted cell phagocytosis and spreading in Helicoverpa armigera. Transcriptomic analyses of hemocytes identified an integrin α gene (HaINTα-PS1) whose expression could be induced by either 20-hydroxyecdysone injection or bead challenge. Isothermal titration calorimetry assays showed that H. armigera CIB1-like (HaCIB1-like) weakly bound to the cytoplasmic domain of HaINTα-PS1 in the presence of calcium. HaINTα-PS1 or HaCIB1-like knockdown inhibited hemocytic encapsulation and phagocytosis, and plasmatocyte spreading. Moreover, HaCIB1-like overexpression in a H. armigera epidermal cell line overexpanded cells and impaired cell phagocytosis. Thus, insect CIB1-like potentially interacted with integrin α-cytoplasmic domain and facilitated cell adhesion. This study enriches our understanding of the molecular mechanism underlying integrin-mediated cellular immunity in insects.

Situs Inversus Totalis on 18F-FDG PET/CT: A Case Report and a Literature Review

A 62-year-old female patient with pathologically confirmed left lung small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. The patient was referred to our positron emission tomography (PET)/CT center to look for possible metastatic diseases. After fasting for 8 h, the fasting blood glucose level of the patient was 7.1 mmol/L. The patient was intravenously injected with a 6.42 mCi (238 MBq) ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) imaging agent. After the patient rested for 1 h, we scanned the patient with SIEMENS Biograph mCT 64 PET/CT camera. In addition to lung tumors and lymph node diseases, abnormal tracer uptake in the patient's thyroid was also found. PET/CT also showed situs inversus totalis of the patient, including the dextrocardia, liver on the left side, stomach, and spleen on the right side of the patient's body. The identification of anatomical variations and abnormalities by PET/CT imaging is very important to develop the best treatment for lung cancer.

SLC2A1 is a Diagnostic Biomarker Involved in Immune Infiltration of Colorectal Cancer and Associated With m6A Modification and ceRNA

Background: Overexpression of solute carrier family 2 member 1 (SLC2A1) promotes glycolysis and proliferation and migration of various tumors. However, there are few comprehensive studies on SLC2A1 in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods: Oncomine, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases were used to analyze the expression of SLC2A1 in pan-cancer and CRC and analyzed the correlation between SLC2A1 expression and clinical characteristics of TCGA CRC samples. The expression level of SLC2A1 in CRC was certified by cell experiments and immunohistochemical staining analysis. The Genome Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) analyses of SLC2A1 relative genes were completed by bioinformatics analysis. The correlation between SLC2A1 expression level and CRC immune infiltration cell was analyzed by Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER), Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), and TCGA database. The correlation between SLC2A1 expression level and ferroptosis and m6A modification of CRC was analyzed by utilizing TCGA and GEO cohort. Finally, the possible competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks involved in SLC2A1 in CRC are predicted and constructed through various databases.

Results: SLC2A1 is highly expressed not only in CRC but also in many other tumors. ROC curve indicated that SLC2A1 had high predictive accuracy for the outcomes of tumor. The SLC2A1 expression in CRC was closely correlated with tumor stage and progression free interval (PFI). GO, KEGG, and GSEA analysis indicated that SLC2A1 relative genes were involved in multiple biological functions. The analysis of TIMER, GEPIA, and TCGA database indicated that the SLC2A1 mRNA expression was mainly positively associated with neutrophils. By the analysis of the TCGA and GEO cohort, we identified that the expression of SLC2A1 is closely associated to an m6A modification relative gene Insulin Like Growth Factor 2 MRNA Binding Protein 3 (IGF2BP3) and a ferroptosis relative gene Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4).

Conclusion: SLC2A1 can be used as a biomarker of CRC, which is associated to immune infiltration, m6A modification, ferroptosis, and ceRNA regulatory network of CRC.

Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) and Bioactive Compound Tanshinone IIA Alleviates Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Through Regulating PXR/NF-κB Signaling

Objective: The present study aims to provide evidence on the potential protective role of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) and its bioactive compound Tanshinone IIA (TanIIA) in AKI and to reveal the specific regulatory function of PXR/NF-κB signaling in AKI-induced renal inflammation. Methods: A network pharmacological analysis was used to study target genes and regulatory networks in the treatment of Salvia miltiorrhiza on AKI. Further experiments with in vivo AKI mouse model and in vitro studies were applied to investigate the renal protective effect of TanIIA in AKI. The mechanisms of TanIIA regulating PXR/NF-κB signaling in renal inflammation were also studied. Results: Network pharmacology had suggested the nuclear receptor family as new therapeutic targets of Salvia miltiorrhiza in AKI treatment. The in vivo studies had demonstrated that TanIIA improved renal function and inflammation by reducing necrosis and promoting the proliferation of tubular epithelial cells. Improved renal arterial perfusion in AKI mice with TanIIA treatment was also recorded by ultrasonography. In vitro studies had shown that TanIIA ameliorated renal inflammation by activating the PXR while inhibiting PXR-mediated NF-κB signaling. The results had suggested a role of PXR activation against AKI-induced renal inflammation. Conclusion: Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) may protect the kidneys against AKI by regulating nuclear receptors. TanIIA improved cell necrosis proliferation and reduced renal inflammation by upregulating the expression of the PXR and inhibiting NF-κB signaling in a PXR-dependent manner. The PXR may be a potential therapeutic target for AKI treatment.

Comprehensive Analysis of YTHDF1 Immune Infiltrates and ceRNA in Human Esophageal Carcinoma

Background: YTHDF1 is highly expressed in multiple tumors and affects tumor progression. However, there are only a few comprehensive studies on the analysis of YTHDF1 in esophageal cancer.

Methods: We analyzed YTHDF1 expression in pan-cancer by comparing both the GEPIA and TCGA cohorts, and further verified the differences in YTHDF1 expression between the ESCA and normal groups by the GEO ESCA cohort and in vitro experiments. The correlation of YTHDF1 expression and the clinical characteristics of ESCA patients was analyzed using the TCGA ESCA clinical data. The GO and KEGG enrichment analyses of the YTHDF1 coexpressed genes were completed by bioinformatics analysis, and the GGI and PPI were constructed for the YTHDF1, respectively. The relationship between YTHDF1 expression and the infiltration of ESCA immune cells was analyzed by using the TIMER database and the TCGA ESCA cohort. The relationships between YTHDF1 expression levels and glycolysis and ferroptosis-related genes were analyzed using the TCGA and GEPIA ESCA cohorts. Finally, the ceRNA network that may be involved in YTHDF1 in ESCA was predicted and constructed through a variety of databases.

Results: YTHDF1 was overexpressed in various cancers, and in vitro experiments confirmed that YTHDF1 expression was higher in ESCA samples than in normal samples. The expression of YTHDF1 has some accuracy in predicting the tumor outcome. Expression of YTHDF1 was significantly associated with multiple clinical features in ESCA patients. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that YTHDF1 coexpressed genes involved multiple biological functions. There is a potential association between YTHDF1 expression and multiple immune cell infiltration, glycolysis, and ferroptosis-related genes in ESCA. YTHDF1 may be involved in multiple ceRNA regulatory networks in ESCA, including PAXIP1-AS1/hsa-miR-376c-3p/YTHDF1 axis, THUMPD3-AS1/hsa-miR-655-3p/YTHDF1 axis, and SNHG20/hsa-miR-655-3p/YTHDF1 axis, respectively.

Conclusion: YTHDF1 can serve as a biomarker of ESCA, related to the immune cell infiltration of ESCA, regulation of glycolysis and ferroptosis, and the ceRNA regulatory network.

Theoretical studies on the g factors, optical absorption, and their concentration variations for Mo5+ in 40PbO-(10 - x)Y2 O3 -50P2 O5 :xMoO3 glass

On the basis of the higher order perturbation formulas of g factors for a 4d¹ group in tetragonally compressed octahedra, the g factors, optical absorption, local structure, and their concentration dependences of pentavalent molybdenum in 40PbO-(10 - x)Y₂ O₃ -50P₂ O₅ :xMoO₃ (1 ≤ x ≤ 5 mol%) glass are uniformly investigated. The experimental optical absorption spectra and g factors for Mo⁵⁺ at various concentrations x are reasonably regenerated by using the reasonable exponential concentration functions of the cubic field parameter D_q , covalent factor N, and relative tetragonal compression ratio ρ. The tetragonal compression ratio ρ due to the Jahn-Teller effect was found in the range of 3.8% to 4.2%. The decreasing trend of D_q and N and the increasing trend of ρ with concentration can be interpreted as the fact that the variations of MoO₃ and Y₂ O₃ concentrations lead to the modulations of local structure and electron cloud distribution around Mo⁵⁺ , associated with the adjustment of the glass network. The concentration dependence of optical basicity is also analyzed for the above glass systems.

[Research advances on the promotive healing effect of hydrogel dressing for diabetic foot wound]

In recent years, the number of diabetic patients has gradually increased, and the number of patients with diabetic foot has also increased. Diabetic foot has a high rate of disability and death, seriously affects the patients' quality of life, shortens life expectancy, and brings heavy social burden. The current treatment methods for diabetic foot are insufficient. The concepts and methods of tissue engineering provide new thoughts and means for the treatment of diabetic foot. This article introduces the pathogenesis of diabetic foot wounds, the factors leading to non-healing of diabetic foot, the applications of functional hydrogel dressings in the treatment of diabetic foot and their technical methods of functional hydrogel dressings for treating skin wounds in diabetic animals, and the future development direction of functional hydrogel dressing for treating diabetic foot wounds is prospected.

ECE2 is a prognostic biomarker associated with m6A modification and involved in immune infiltration of lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

The targeted therapy for lung cancer relies on prognostic genes and requires further research. No research has been conducted to determine the effect of endothelin-converting enzyme 2 (ECE2) in lung cancer.

METHODS

We analyzed the expression of ECE2 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and normal adjacent tissues and its relationship with clinicopathological characteristics from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO). Immunohistochemical staining was used to further validate the findings. GO/KEGG enrichment analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of ECE2 co-expression were performed using R software. Data from TIMER, the GEPIA database, and TCGA were analyzed to determine the relationship between ECE2 expression and LUAD immune infiltration. To investigate the relationship between ECE2 expression levels and LUAD m6A modification, TCGA data and GEO data were analyzed.

RESULTS

ECE2 is highly expressed in various cancers including LUAD. ECE2 showed high accuracy in distinguishing tumor and normal sample results. The expression level of ECE2 in LUAD was significantly correlated with tumor stage and prognosis. GO/KEGG enrichment analysis showed that ECE2 was closely related to mitochondrial gene expression, ATPase activity and cell cycle. GSEA analysis showed that ECE2-related differential gene enrichment pathways were related to mitotic cell cycle, MYC pathway, PLK1 pathway, DNA methylation pathway, HIF1A pathway and Oxidative stress-induced cellular senescence. Analysis of the TIMER, GEPIA database, and TCGA datasets showed that ECE2 expression levels were significantly negatively correlated with B cells, CD4+ cells, M2 macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells. TCGA and GEO datasets showed that ECE2 was significantly associated with m6A modification-related genes HNRNPC, IGF2BP1, IGF2BP3 and RBM1.

CONCLUSION

ECE2 is associated with m6A modification and immune infiltration and is a prognostic biomarker in LUAD.

Comprehensive Analysis of Hexokinase 2 Immune Infiltrates and m6A Related Genes in Human Esophageal Carcinoma

Background: Hexokinase 2 not only plays a role in physiological function of human normal tissues and organs, but also plays a vital role in the process of glycolysis of tumor cells. However, there are few comprehensive studies on HK2 in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) needs further study.

Methods: Oncomine, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER), The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were used to analyze the expression differences of HK2 in Pan-cancer and ESCA cohort, and to analyze the correlation between HK2 expression level and clinicopathological features of TCGA ESCA samples. GO/KEGG, GGI, and PPI analysis of HK2 was performed using R software, LinkedOmics, GeneMANIA and STRING online tools. The correlation between HK2 and ESCA immune infiltration was analyzed TIMER and TCGA ESCA cohort. The correlation between HK2 expression level and m6A modification of ESCA was analyzed by utilizing TCGA ESCA cohort.

Results: HK2 is highly expressed in a variety of tumors, and its high expression level in ESCA is closely related to the weight, cancer stages, tumor histology and tumor grade of ESCA. The analysis results of GO/KEGG showed that HK2 was closely related to cell adhesion molecule binding, cell-cell junction, ameboidal-type cell migration, insulin signaling pathway, hif-1 signaling pathway, and insulin resistance. GGI showed that HK2 associated genes were mainly involved in the glycolytic pathway. PPI showed that HK2 was closely related to HK1, GPI, and HK3, all of which played an important role in tumor proliferation. The analysis results of TIMER and TCGA ESCA cohort indicated that the HK2 expression level was related to the infiltration of various immune cells. TCGA ESCA cohort analyze indicated that the HK2 expression level was correlated with m6A modification genes.

Conclusion: HK2 is associated with tumor immune infiltration and m6A modification of ESCA, and can be used as a potential biological target for diagnosis and therapy of ESCA.

[Epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 outbreak in Gaocheng district of Shijiazhuan]

Objective: To describe the epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 outbreak in Gaocheng district of Shijiazhuan. Methods: Data and epidemiological survey reports of COVID-19 cases in the outbreak were collected from China's Infectious Disease Information System, Shijazhuang Municipal Center for Diseases Prevention and Control and official information published by the National Health Commission of China. The data were analyzed, using the descriptive epidemiological method. Results: From January 2^nd to February 14^th, 2021, a total of 1 033 laboratory confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported in Shijiazhuang. The attack rate was 9.36/100 000. The cases were distributed in 14 counties, and most cases (859/1 033, 83.16%) were reported in Gaocheng, and the disease spread to 5 provinces. The cases in Xiaoguo village (299 cases), Liujiazhuo village (107 cases) and Nanqiaozhai village (162 cases) of Zengcun township in Gaocheng accounted for 54.99% of the total cases in Shijiazhuang. The attack rates in the villages mentioned above were 7 412.00/100 000, 10 348.16/100 000 and 6 612.24/100 000, respectively. The ratio of urban cases to rural cases was 1∶15.53. The male to female ratio of the cases was 1∶1.34. The average age of the cases was 40.49 years. The incidence peaks occurred on January 3^rd (9.97%, 103 cases) and on January 9^th (9.10%, 94 cases). A total of 307 clusters occurred, in which 228(74.27%) occurred in households and 48 (15.64%) occurred in schools or child care settings. But the clusters related with church ceremony had the highest case numbers (82.67 cases/time), followed by wedding feast or feast celebrating the first month of newborn (28.29 cases/time). About 33.02% (313/948) of symptomatic cases only visited the village doctors or private clinics and had no medical care seeking history before the outbreak. Conclusions: The COVID-19 epidemic in Gaocheng of Shijiazhuang was a typical one in rural area. The rapid and hiding transmission of the outbreak was mainly due to the poor health service seeking of the rural residents and the frequent mass gathering.

Steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone promotes CTL1-mediated cellular immunity in Helicoverpa armigera

Mermithid nematodes, such as Ovomermis sinensis, are used as biological control agents against many insect pests, including cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera). However, given the host's robust immune system, the infection rate of O. sinensis is low, thus restricting its widespread use. To understand the host defense mechanisms against mermithid nematodes, we identified and characterized a protein involved in the recognition of O. sinensis, the potential O. sinensis-binding protein C-type lectin 1 (HaCTL1a and/or HaCTL1b), which was eluted from the surface of O. sinensis after incubation with H. armigera plasma. HaCTL1b is homologous to the previously reported HaCTL1a protein. HaCTL1 was predominantly expressed in hemocytes and was induced by the steroid hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone through ecdysone receptor (HaEcR) or ultraspiracle (HaUSP), or both. Binding assays confirmed the interactions of the HaCTL1 proteins with O. sinensis but not with Romanomermis wuchangensis, a parasitic nematode of mosquito. Moreover, the HaCTL1 proteins were secreted into the hemocoel and promoted hemocyte-mediated encapsulation and phagocytosis. A knockdown of HaEcR and/or HaUSP resulted in compromised encapsulation and phagocytosis. Thus, HaCTL1 appears to modulate cellular immunity in the defense against parasitic nematodes, and the 20-hydroxyecdysone-HaEcR-HaUSP complex is involved in regulating the process.

Corrigendum: NPM1 Is a Prognostic Biomarker Involved in Immune Infiltration of Lung Adenocarcinoma and Associated With m6A Modification and Glycolysis

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.724741.].

18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters correlate with EIF2S2 expression status in colorectal cancer

Background: We sought to investigate whether the expression of the gene EIF2S2 is related to ¹⁸F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Materials and methods: The expression of EIF2S2 in CRC and its relationship with clinicopathological features were obtained through the ONCOMINE, UALCAN and GEPIA databases. EIF2S2 and GLUT1 expression were examined by immunohistochemistry in 42 CRC patients undergoing preoperative PET-CT examination. Spearman correlation analysis was used to assess the relationship between EIF2S2 and GLUT1 levels and clinical parameters. Correlation analysis between EIF2S2 and Reactome-Glycolysis signatures was performed using GEPIA2. We describe the effect of EIF2S2 knockdown on lactate production and the mRNA levels of glycolysis-related genes in human colon cancer SW480 cells.

Results: Immunohistochemistry revealed an upregulation of EIF2S2 protein expression in tumor tissues of colorectal cancer patients, which is consistent with the significant upregulation of EIF2S2 transcript levels in the database. These colorectal cancer patients included 24 cases of colon cancer and 18 cases of rectal cancer, ranging in age from 31 to 78 years. The transcription was significantly related to histological subtypes and TP53 mutations (P <0.05). The value of SUVmax in CRC significantly correlated with the expression of EIF2S2 (rho = 0.462, P <0.01). Although SUVmax and SUVmean was not correlate with the expression of GLUT1 (P <0.05), a significant correlation was observed between the expression of GLUT1 and the volumetric PET parameters, such as MTV and TLG (P < 0.01). GLUT1 expression in CRC was positively correlated with EIF2S2 status (rho = 0.470, P <0.01). In SW480 cells, RNAi-mediated depletion of EIF2S2 inhibited lactic acid production (P <0.05) and SLC2A1, SLC2A3, SLC2A10, HK2, PKM2, LDHA mRNA level (P <0.01).

Conclusions: Primary CRC FDG uptake is strongly associated with the overexpression of EIF2S2, and EIF2S2 may promote glycolysis in CRC by mediating GLUT1.

Differentiated activities of decorin and biglycan in the progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To delineate the activities of decorin and biglycan in the progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA).

DESIGN

Three-month-old inducible biglycan (BgniKO) and decorin/biglycan compound (Dcn/BgniKO) knockout mice were subjected to the destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) surgery to induce PTOA. The OA phenotype was evaluated by assessing joint structure and sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) staining via histology, surface collagen fibril nanostructure and calcium content via scanning electron microscopy, tissue modulus via atomic force microscopy-nanoindentation, as well as subchondral bone structure and meniscus ossification via micro-computed tomography. Outcomes were compared with previous findings in the inducible decorin (DcniKO) knockout mice.

RESULTS

In the DMM model, BgniKO mice developed similar degree of OA as the control (0.44 [-0.18 1.05] difference in modified Mankin score), different from the more severe OA phenotype observed in DcniKO mice (1.38 [0.91 1.85] difference). Dcn/BgniKO mice exhibited similar histological OA phenotype as DcniKO mice (1.51 [0.97 2.04] difference vs control), including aggravated loss of sGAGs, salient surface fibrillation and formation of osteophyte. Meanwhile, Dcn/BgniKO mice showed further cartilage thinning than DcniKO mice, resulting in the exposure of underlying calcified tissues and aberrantly high surface modulus. BgniKO and Dcn/BgniKO mice developed altered subchondral trabecular bone structure in both Sham and DMM groups, while DcniKO and control mice did not.

CONCLUSION

In PTOA, decorin plays a more crucial role than biglycan in regulating cartilage degeneration, while biglycan is more important in regulating subchondral bone structure. The two have distinct activities and modest synergy in the pathogenesis of PTOA.

NPM1 Is a Prognostic Biomarker Involved in Immune Infiltration of Lung Adenocarcinoma and Associated With m6A Modification and Glycolysis

Background

Overexpression of NPM1 can promote the growth and proliferation of various tumor cells. However, there are few studies on the comprehensive analysis of NPM1 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

TCGA and GEO data sets were used to analyze the expression of NPM1 in LUAD and clinicopathological analysis. The GO/KEGG enrichment analysis of NPM1 co-expression and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed using R software package. The relationship between NPM1 expression and LUAD immune infiltration was analyzed using TIMER, GEPIA database and TCGA data sets, and the relationship between NPM1 expression level and LUAD m6A modification and glycolysis was analyzed using TCGA and GEO data sets.

Results

NPM1 was overexpressed in a variety of tumors including LUAD, and the ROC curve showed that NPM1 had a certain accuracy in predicting the outcome of tumors and normal samples. The expression level of NPM1 in LUAD is significantly related to tumor stage and prognosis. The GO/KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that NPM1 was closely related to translational initiation, ribosome, structural constituent of ribosome, ribosome, Parkinson disease, and RNA transport. GSEA showed that the main enrichment pathway of NPM1-related differential genes was mainly related to mTORC1 mediated signaling, p53 hypoxia pathway, signaling by EGFR in cancer, antigen activates B cell receptor BCR leading to generation of second messengers, aerobic glycolysis and methylation pathways. The analysis of TIMER, GEPIA database and TCGA data sets showed that the expression level of NPM1 was negatively correlated with B cells and NK cells. The TCGA and GEO data sets analysis indicated that the NPM1 expression was significantly correlated with one m6A modifier related gene (HNRNPC) and five glycolysis related genes (ENO1, HK2, LDHA, LDHB and SLC2A1).

Conclusion

NPM1 is a prognostic biomarker involved in immune infiltration of LUAD and associated with m6A modification and glycolysis. NPM1 can be used as an effective target for diagnosis and treatment of LUAD.

Comprehensive Analysis of GLUT1 Immune Infiltrates and ceRNA Network in Human Esophageal Carcinoma

Background

Glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) is encoded by the solute carrier family 2A1 (SLC2A1) gene and is one of the glucose transporters with the greatest affinity for glucose. Abnormal expression of GLUT1 is associated with a variety of cancers. However, the biological role of GLUT1 in esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) remains to be determined.

Methods

We analyzed the expression of GLUT1 in pan-cancer and ESCA as well as clinicopathological analysis through multiple databases. Use R and STRING to perform GO/KEGG function enrichment and PPI analysis for GLUT1 co-expression. TIMER and CIBERSORT were used to analyze the relationship between GLUT1 expression and immune infiltration in ESCA. The TCGA ESCA cohort was used to analyze the relationship between GLUT1 expression and m6A modification in ESCA, and to construct a regulatory network in line with the ceRNA hypothesis.

Results

GLUT1 is highly expressed in a variety of tumors including ESCA, and is closely related to histological types and histological grade. GO/KEGG functional enrichment analysis revealed that GLUT1 is closely related to structural constituent of cytoskeleton, intermediate filament binding, cell-cell adheres junction, epidermis development, and P53 signaling pathway. PPI shows that GLUT1 is closely related to TP53, GIPC1 and INS, and these three proteins all play an important role in tumor proliferation. CIBERSORT analysis showed that GLUT1 expression is related to the infiltration of multiple immune cells. When GLUT1 is highly expressed, the number of memory B cells decreases. ESCA cohort analysis found that GLUT1 expression was related to 7 m6A modifier genes. Six possible crRNA networks in ESCA were constructed by correlation analysis, and all these ceRNA networks contained GLUT1.

Conclusion

GLUT1 can be used as a biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of ESCA, and is related to tumor immune infiltration, m6A modification and ceRNA network.

Transforming Growth Factor-β and Long Non-coding RNA in Renal Inflammation and Fibrosis

Renal fibrosis is one of the most characterized pathological features in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Progressive fibrosis eventually leads to renal failure, leaving dialysis or allograft transplantation the only clinical option for CKD patients. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is the key mediator in renal fibrosis and is an essential regulator for renal inflammation. Therefore, the general blockade of the pro-fibrotic TGF-β may reduce fibrosis but may risk promoting renal inflammation and other side effects due to the diverse role of TGF-β in kidney diseases. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are RNA transcripts with more than 200 nucleotides and have been regarded as promising therapeutic targets for many diseases. This review focuses on the importance of TGF-β and lncRNAs in renal inflammation, fibrogenesis, and the potential applications of TGF-β and lncRNAs as the therapeutic targets and biomarkers in renal fibrosis and CKD are highlighted.

[Willingness on acceptance of peer-referral strategies for promoting HIV testing in men who have sex with men in Shijiazhuang]

Objective: To understand the willingness to accept peer-referral strategies for promoting HIV testing and related factors in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shijiazhuang. Methods: A total of 544 MSM were recruited using convenient sampling and sharing two-dimensional code of online questionnaire througth MSM social organizations in Shijiazhuang from August to September in 2018. The anonymous online survey were taken by login through the website "jinshuju.com" (https://im.jinshuju.com/users/sign_in). The information collected included: the demographic and behavioral characteristics, the attitude to HIV testing for partners, and the willingness to accept peer-referral strategies for promoting HIV testing. The socio-demographic characteristics were analyzed by χ² test. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the related factors associated with willingness. The SAS 9.4 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 521 MSM completed the survey. Among them 59.50% (310/521) were willing to advise their partners to receive HIV testing, and 90.02% (469/521) were willing to accept the partners' advice of HIV testing. Higher HIV testing frequency for once a year (aOR=2.72,95%CI:1.42-5.20); for once a half year (aOR=5.72, 95%CI:2.97-11.02); for ≥1 time a quarter (aOR=8.76,95%CI:4.56-16.83), enquiring their partners' HIV status (aOR=1.94, 95%CI: 1.15-3.28) and STD history of their partners (aOR=1.83, 95%CI:1.06-3.14) before having sex were the factors positively associated with the willingness to advise partners to receive HIV testing. Discussing HIV testing with partners (aOR=4.43,95%CI:1.87-10.54) was the factor positively associated with the desire to accept the advice of HIV testing from partners, but feeling emotional hurt by the suggestion of HIV testing (aOR=0.35,95%CI:0.15-0.82) was the factor negatively associated with the willingness to accept the advice of HIV testing from partners. Conclusion: To improve the willingess of MSM to advise their partners to receive HIV testing and strengthen self-protection awareness and equal communication skills are essential for the success of peer-referral strategies for promoting HIV testing among MSM.

Expression of a phenoloxidase cascade inhibitor enhances the virulence of the fungus Beauveria bassiana against the insect Helicoverpa armigera

Entomopathogenic fungi have high potential for controlling insect pests, although the slow killing speed has blocked their widespread application. To increase the virulence of entomopathogenic fungi, genetic modification can be employed. Egf1.0 is an immunosuppressive protein encoded by polydnavirus, carried by parasitoid wasp Microplitis demolitor, which blocks the prophenoloxidase (PPO) activation response of host insects. In this study, we explored the feasibility of genetically modifying entomopathogenic fungi with increased virulence by expressing Egf1.0. In comparison with the wild-type parents, the median lethal concentration (LC₅₀) of Beauveria bassiana expressing Egf1.0 against Helicoverpa armigera was reduced by 2.7-fold, and the median lethal time (LT₅₀) was reduced by 22.8%. In vitro assay showed that recombinant Egf1.0 was able to inhibit the PPO activation response of H. armigera. In vivo assay revealed that the expression of Egf1.0 in B. bassiana caused a higher degree of suppression to PPO activation response of H. armigera. These assays suggested that the increased virulence of the transgenic fungi is due to the increased ability to suppress the host insect's immune response. Moreover, colony growth, conidia yield, and germination assays revealed that the expression of Egf1.0 in B. bassiana had no effect on its growth and development. In conclusion, the expression of Egf1.0 can significantly enhance the pathogenicity of B. bassiana against host insects.

Studies on the local structure and spin Hamiltonian parameters for V4+ in Na2 O-PbO-Bi2 O3 -SiO2 glass ceramics

The local structure, d-d transition band, and spin Hamiltonian parameters (SHPs) are theoretically studied for the V⁴⁺ probe in Na₂ O-PbO-Bi₂ O₃ -SiO₂ (NPBS) glass ceramics containing V₂ O₅ dopant with various concentration x (0 ≤ x ≤ 5 mol%) by using the perturbation formulas of the SHPs for tetragonally compressed octahedral 3d¹ clusters. The first decreasing (or increasing) and then increasing (or decreasing) d-d transition band (= 10 D_q ) and hyperfine structure constants A_// and A_⊥ (or g factors g_// and g_⊥ ) with x can be suitably simulated with the similarly varying Fourier type concentration functions of cubic field parameter D_q , covalence factor N, core polarization constant κ, and reduction factor H (or relative tetragonal compression ratio ρ), with the minima (or maxima) at the middle concentration x = 3 mol%, respectively. The above concentration variations of SHPs and the related quantities may originate from the modifications of local crystal field strength, tetragonal compression, and electron cloud distribution near the impurity V⁴⁺ with x, corresponding to the highest [V⁴⁺ ]/[V⁵⁺ ] ratio at 3 mol%. Present studies would be helpful to explore novel sodium lead bismuth silicate glass ceramics by modifying the concentration of V₂ O₅ dopant.

Mechanism of Metarhizium rileyi evading cellular immune responses in Helicoverpa armigera

Upon entry into the hemocoel of host insects, entomopathogenic fungi switch to yeast-like hyphal bodies that are not recognized by host hemocytes and replicate extensively in the hemolymph. The mechanism by which hyphal bodies evade host cellular immunity is not well understood. This study compares Metarhizium rileyi conidia and hyphal bodies with respect to elicitation of the immune response of Helicoverpa armigera and recognition by host pattern recognition receptors (PRRs). We found that the ability of host hemocytes to phagocytize and nodulate hyphal bodies was weaker than those responses against conidia, suggesting that hyphal bodies are more able to evade host cellular immunity. Additionally, we found that the binding affinity of H. armigera β-1,3-glucan recognition proteins was much lower for hyphal bodies than for conidia. We observed no agglutination response of H. armigera C-type lectin 3 (HaCTL3) against hyphal bodies, and HaCTL3 bound significantly less to hyphal bodies than to conidia, indicating that host PRRs have a lower affinity for hyphal bodies than for conidia. This study provides direct evidence that the mechanism whereby entomopathogenic fungi escape host cellular immunity involves the inability of host PRRs to sufficiently recognize hyphal bodies to elicit the cellular immune response.

Efficacy and safety of Shenyankangfu Tablet, a Chinese patent medicine, for primary glomerulonephritis: A multicenter randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Shenyankangfu Tablet (SYKFT) is a Chinese patent medicine that has been used widely to decrease proteinuria and the progression of chronic kidney disease.

OBJECTIVE

This trial compared the efficacy and safety of SYKFT, for the control of proteinuria in primary glomerulonephritis patients, against the standard drug, losartan potassium.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTION

This was a multicenter, double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Primary glomerulonephritis patients, aged 18-70 years, with blood pressure ≤ 140/90 mmHg, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 45 mL/min per 1.73 m², and 24-hour proteinuria level of 0.5-3.0 g, were recruited in 41 hospitals across 19 provinces in China and were randomly divided into five groups: SYKFT, losartan potassium 50 mg or 100 mg, SYKFT plus losartan potassium 50 mg or 100 mg.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome was change in the 24-hour proteinuria level, after 48 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 735 participants were enrolled. The percent decline of urine protein quantification in the SYKFT group after 48 weeks was 8.78% ± 2.56% (P = 0.006) more than that in the losartan 50 mg group, which was 0.51% ± 2.54% (P = 1.000) less than that in the losartan 100 mg group. Compared with the losartan potassium 50 mg group, the SYKFT plus losartan potassium 50 mg group had a 13.39% ± 2.49% (P < 0.001) greater reduction in urine protein level. Compared with the losartan potassium 100 mg group, the SYKFT plus losartan potassium 100 mg group had a 9.77% ± 2.52% (P = 0.001) greater reduction in urine protein. With a superiority threshold of 15%, neither was statistically significant. eGFR, serum creatinine and serum albumin from the baseline did not change statistically significant. The average change in TCM syndrome score between the patients who took SYKFT (-3.00 [-6.00, -2.00]) and who did not take SYKFT (-2.00 [-5.00, 0]) was statistically significant (P = 0.003). No obvious adverse reactions were observed in any group.

CONCLUSION

SYKFT decreased the proteinuria and improved the TCM syndrome scores of primary glomerulonephritis patients, with no change in the rate of decrease in the eGFR. SYKFT plus losartan potassium therapy decreased proteinuria more than losartan potassium therapy alone.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02063100 on ClinicalTrials.gov.

Comprehensive Analysis of Prognostic and Immune Infiltrates for E2F Transcription Factors in Human Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma

Background

E2F transcription factors (E2Fs) are a group of genes encoding a family of transcription factors in higher eukaryotes. They are involved in a variety of cellular functions and are up-regulated in many tissues and organs. However, the expression level, genetic variation, molecular mechanism, and biological function of different E2Fs in PAAD and its relationship with the prognosis and immune infiltration in patients with PAAD have not been fully elucidated.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the mRNA expression level, genetic variation, prognostic value and gene–gene interaction network of E2Fs in PAAD using the Oncomine, GEPIA, Kaplan Meier plotter, cBioPortal, GeneMANIA, STRING and Metascape database. Then, the relationship between E2Fs expression and tumor immune invasion was studied by using the TIMER database. Finally, we confirmed the expression of E2Fs in PAAD by IHC.

Results

The transcription levels of E2F1/3/5/8 are obviously up-regulated in PAAD and the high expression of E2F2/3/6/8 was apparently associated with the tumor stage of patients with PAAD. The abnormal expression of E2F1/2/3/4/5/7/8 in PAAD patients is related to the clinical outcome of PAAD patients. We also found that PAAD tissues have higher expression levels of E2F1/3/5/8 compared with adjacent normal tissues. The function of E2Fs and its neighboring genes is mainly related to the transcription initiation of the RNA polymerase II promoter. The functions of E2Fs and its neighboring proteins are mainly related to cell cycle, virus carcinogenesis, FoxO signaling pathway, TGF-β signaling pathway, transcriptional disorders in cancer and Wnt signaling pathway. We also found that the expression of E2Fs was significantly correlated with immune infiltrates, including B cells, CD8+ T cells, CD4+T cells, neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells.

Conclusions

Our study may provide new insights into the choice of immunotherapy targets and prognostic biomarkers in PAAD patients.

Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Diabetic Kidney Disease

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the most common diabetic complication and is a leading cause of end-stage kidney disease. Increasing evidence shows that DKD is regulated not only by many classical signaling pathways but also by epigenetic mechanisms involving chromatin histone modifications, DNA methylation, and non-coding RNA (ncRNAs). In this review, we focus on our current understanding of the role and mechanisms of ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathogenesis of DKD. Of them, the regulatory role of TGF-β/Smad3-dependent miRNAs and lncRNAs in DKD is highlighted. Importantly, miRNAs and lncRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for DKD are also described, and the perspective of ncRNAs as a novel therapeutic approach for combating diabetic nephropathy is also discussed.

Quercetin as a potential treatment for COVID-19-induced acute kidney injury: Based on network pharmacology and molecular docking study

Kidneys are one of the targets for SARS-CoV-2, it is reported that up to 36% of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection would develop into acute kidney injury (AKI). AKI is associated with high mortality in the clinical setting and contributes to the transition of AKI to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Up to date, the underlying mechanisms are obscure and there is no effective and specific treatment for COVID-19-induced AKI. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms and interactions between Quercetin and SARS-CoV-2 targets proteins by using network pharmacology and molecular docking. The renal protective effects of Quercetin on COVID-19-induced AKI may be associated with the blockade of the activation of inflammatory, cell apoptosis-related signaling pathways. Quercetin may also serve as SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor by binding with the active sites of SARS-CoV-2 main protease 3CL and ACE2, therefore suppressing the functions of the proteins to cut the viral life cycle. In conclusion, Quercetin may be a novel therapeutic agent for COVID-19-induced AKI. Inhibition of inflammatory, cell apoptosis-related signaling pathways may be the critical mechanisms by which Quercetin protects kidney from SARS-CoV-2 injury.

[Analysis of pregnancy outcome after fertility-preserving treatment among women with atypical endometrial hyperplasia or endometrial carcinoma]

Objective: To analyze the pregnancy outcome, influencing factors and recurrence of fertility-preserving therapy for women with atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) or endometrial carcinoma (EC). Methods: The multi-center retrospective study included 107 women with AEH or EC for fertility-preserving therapy in 10 hospitals from January 1st, 2009 to December 31st, 2018. The clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate and recurrence of 66 patients with urgent child-bearing requirements after fertility-preserving treatment were analyzed. Results: (1) Among the 66 AEH and EC women with urgent child bearing requirements, 24 women chose spontaneous pregnancy, the clinical pregnancy rate was 54.2% (13/24) and the live birth rate was 41.7% (10/24), the median time from fertility-preserving therapy withdrawal to clinical pregnancy was 5.5 months. Forty-two women chose assisted reproductive technology (ART), the clinical pregnancy rate was 59.5% (25/42) and the live birth rate was 35.7% (15/42), the median time from fertility-preserving therapy withdrawal to clinical pregnancy was 19.5 months. The time from fertility-preserving therapy withdrawal to pregnancy in women receiving ART was significantly longer than that in women with spontaneous pregnancy (P=0.048). (2) Age and intrauterine adhesions were independent factors affecting the clinical pregnancy rate (P<0.05). (3) Among 107 patients with AEH or EC, the recurrence rate was 27.1% (29/107). Among the 42 cases who chose ART, 9 of them recurred before ART treatment, who received the fertility-preserving therapy again and then ART treatment, 8 women got clinical pregnancy,5 of them delivered at least a live birth. Conclusions: Women with AEH or EC could achieved satisfactory clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate after fertility-preserving therapy. Age and intrauterine adhesions are independent factors affecting clinical pregnancy rate. The women with recurrent AEH or EC could be treated with fertility-preserving therapy again and get a satisfactory pregnancy outcome.

Is E-Version Transition of the Medication Adherence Scale Feasible for CKD Management? A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

To transfer a paper-version Chinese and Western medication adherence scale for CKD into an electronic scale, and evaluate its validity, internal consistency and clinical implementation, and assess whether the transition is feasible in clinic.

METHODS

We built an e-version Chinese and Western medication adherence scale based on the Wen-JuanXing platform. CKD subjects' responses were applied to test the scale's validity and internal consistency. We retested some of the participants two weeks later randomly. We also tested the clinical application.

RESULTS

Of the 434 recruited patients, 228 responded. In exploratory factor analysis (EFA), the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure of sampling adequacy = 0.8 and Bartlett's approx. Chi-Square = 1340.0 (df = 105, p < 0.001). We extracted four common factors which could explain 61.47% of the variance. However, Item 15 "Have you changed a traditional Chinese medicine prescription yourself within the past month?" had factor loading = 0.3 and measure of sampling adequacy (MSA) = 0.5, meaning we could not enter it into the factor analysis. The internal consistency reliability for medication adherence was 0.9, with a Guttman split-half coefficient = 0.5 and a Spearman-Brown coefficient = 0.6. Cronbach's α was 0.9, 0.4 and 0.5 for the knowledge, belief and behavior domains, respectively. The correlation coefficient r of the test-retest reliability was -0.8 and was -0.8, 0.4, -0.3 in the knowledge, belief and behavior domains, respectively. Patients with comorbidities were more likely to respond. We detected no other significant differences in the clinical profiles between respondents and non-respondents.

CONCLUSION

The e-version Chinese and Western medication adherence scales have undesirable construct validity and internal consistency. Thus, caution is needed in transitioning the paper-version scale into an e-version.

Ferromagnetic frustration in ternary nitride ZnFe3N

As a new antiperovskite nitride, ZnFe3N was synthesized and characterized by almost completely substituting iron atoms at corner positions of γ'-Fe4N. The magnetic interactions of the system with the space group Pm3[combining macron]m are fully investigated. The critical behavior was investigated based on the measured magnetic data around the ferromagnetic phase transition temperature. In this work, the values of critical exponents (β, γ and δ) were obtained systematically using the Kouvel-Fisher method in the critical region. The Widom scaling law (δ = 1 + γβ-1) and the scaling equation (m = f±(h)) were used to reveal the reliability of these values. The values of the critical exponents (β = 0.325, γ = 1.228, and δ = 4.778) are different from those predicted by the three-dimensional (3D) Heisenberg model and mean-field model, and are very close to those of the 3D-Ising model. Combined with ESR analysis, the spin clusters induced by changes in chemical bonds are considered to be the cause for the existence of an anisotropic short-range ordered state in this ferromagnetic system.

Validity, reliability, and application of the electronic version of a chronic kidney disease patient awareness questionnaire: a pilot study

OBJECTIVES

A questionnaire which provides desirable reliability and validity has been previously developed to assess the disease awareness of diagnosed chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. However, conventional paper questionnaires often have disadvantages, including recall bias. To substantially improve this, we therefore aimed to explore the feasibility of developing a smartphone-based electronic version (e-version) based upon its original paper version and subsequently tested its validity, reliability, and applicability.

METHODS

A pilot study was conducted at Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine in Guangzhou, China, during August 2019. The e-version had identical content to the paper version and was adapted in terms of layout and assisted functions via the Wechat-incorporated Wen-Juan-Xing platform. Eligible patients with diagnosed CKD were invited to participate and were assigned the e-version. Randomly selected respondents received a test-retest of the same e-version 2 weeks after their first completion. In some instances, psychometric properties, including validity and reliability of the e-version, were examined. In others, its clinical application was also tested, which included comparisons among the clinical profiles of patients who had/had not responded to the questionnaire as well as patients with above or below average questionnaire scores.

RESULTS

Of the 225 patients screened, 217 were enrolled to participate, with a response rate of 52.5%. Desirable reliability (Cronbachα = 0.962, ICC for total scores = 0.948), while good convergent validity (Cronbachα = 0.962) and low discriminant validity (one extracted component), of the e-version were detected. Performing inter-group comparisons highlighted statistical differences in terms of higher education level (z = -2.436, P = 0.015) and earlier CKD stages (z = -1.978, P = 0.048), with these patients often preferring to respond. No significant differences were detected in the clinical profiles between respondents who obtained an above or below average questionnaire score.

CONCLUSION

The e-version is reliable but was not shown to be a valid approach. Audiences with higher education levels and less advanced disease condition may prefer to respond to the e-version. Adaptation of this e-questionnaire, from its original paper version, may not be a direct transition and meticulous modifications may be required during the transition process.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR1900024633).