Tumor biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and targeted therapy

Tumor biomarkers, the substances which are produced by tumors or the body's responses to tumors during tumorigenesis and progression, have been demonstrated to possess critical and encouraging value in screening and early diagnosis, prognosis prediction, recurrence detection, and therapeutic efficacy monitoring of cancers. Over the past decades, continuous progress has been made in exploring and discovering novel, sensitive, specific, and accurate tumor biomarkers, which has significantly promoted personalized medicine and improved the outcomes of cancer patients, especially advances in molecular biology technologies developed for the detection of tumor biomarkers. Herein, we summarize the discovery and development of tumor biomarkers, including the history of tumor biomarkers, the conventional and innovative technologies used for biomarker discovery and detection, the classification of tumor biomarkers based on tissue origins, and the application of tumor biomarkers in clinical cancer management. In particular, we highlight the recent advancements in biomarker-based anticancer-targeted therapies which are emerging as breakthroughs and promising cancer therapeutic strategies. We also discuss limitations and challenges that need to be addressed and provide insights and perspectives to turn challenges into opportunities in this field. Collectively, the discovery and application of multiple tumor biomarkers emphasized in this review may provide guidance on improved precision medicine, broaden horizons in future research directions, and expedite the clinical classification of cancer patients according to their molecular biomarkers rather than organs of origin.

Influence of Cation-Size Effects of Alkaline Earth (Ae) Metals on Dimensionality and Optical Anisotropy Regulation in K4AeP2S8 Thiophosphates

Cationic substitution demonstrates significant potential for regulating structural dimensionality and physicochemical performance owing to the cation-size effect. Leveraging this characteristic, this study synthesized a new family of K4AeP2S8 (Ae = alkaline earth elements: Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba) thiophosphates, involving the substitution of Ae2+ cations. The synthesized compounds crystallized in distinct space groups, monoclinic P2/c (Ae = Mg) versus orthorhombic Ibam (Ae = Ca, Sr, and Ba), exhibiting intriguing dimensionality transformations from zero-dimensional (0D) [Mg2P4S16]8- clusters in K4MgP2S8 to 1D ∞[AeP2S8]4- chains in other K4AeP2S8 thiophosphates owing to the varying ionic radii of Ae2+ cations, Ae-S bond lengths, and coordination numbers of AeSn (Mg: n = 6 versus other: n = 8). Experimental investigations revealed that K4AeP2S8 thiophosphates featured wide optical bandgaps (3.37-3.64 eV), and their optical absorptions were predominantly influenced by the S 3p and P 3s orbitals, with negligible contributions from the K and Ae cations. Notably, within the K4AeP2S8 series, birefringence (Δn) increased from K4MgP2S8 (Δn = 0.034) to other K4AeP2S8 (Δn = 0.050-0.079) compounds, suggesting that infinite 1D chains more significantly influence Δn origins than 0D clusters, thus offering a feasible approach for enhancing optical anisotropy and exploring potential new birefringent materials.

[Identification of key genes in Wilms tumor based on high-throughput RNA sequencing and their impacts on prognosis and immune responses]

OBJECTIVE

To identify the key genes differentially expressed in Wilms tumor and analyze their potential impacts on prognosis and immune responses of the patients.

METHODS

High-throughput RNA sequencing was used to identify the differentially expressed mRNAs in clinical samples of Wilms tumor and paired normal tissues, and their biological functions were analyzed using GO, KEGG and GSEA enrichment analyses. The hub genes were identified using STRING database, based on which a prognostic model was constructed using LASSO regression. The mutations of the key hub genes were analyzed and their impacts on immunotherapy efficacy was predicted using the cBioPortal platform. RT-qPCR was used to verify the differential expressions of the key hub genes in Wilms tumor.

RESULTS

Of the 1612 differentially expressed genes identified in Wilms tumor, 1030 were up-regulated and 582 were down-regulated, involving mainly cell cycle processes and immune responses. Ten hub genes were identified, among which 4 genes (TP53, MED1, CCNB1 and EGF) were closely related to the survival of children with Wilms tumor. A 3-gene prognostic signature was constructed through LASSO regression analysis, and the patients stratified into with high- and low-risk groups based on this signature had significantly different survival outcomes (HR=1.814, log-rank P=0.002). The AUCs of the 3-, 5- and 7-year survival ROC curves of this model were all greater than 0.7. The overall mutations in the key hub genes or the individual mutations in TP53/CCNB1 were strongly correlated with a lower survival rates, and a high TP53 expression was correlated with a poor immunotherapy efficacy. RT-qPCR confirmed that the key hub genes had significant differential expressions in Wilms tumor tissues and cells.

CONCLUSION

TP53 gene plays an important role in the Wilms tumor and may potentially serve as a new immunotherapeutic biomarker as well as a therapeutic target.

Coin-sized, fully integrated, and minimally invasive continuous glucose monitoring system based on organic electrochemical transistors

Continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs) are critical toward closed-loop diabetes management. The field's progress urges next-generation CGMs with enhanced antinoise ability, reliability, and wearability. Here, we propose a coin-sized, fully integrated, and wearable CGM, achieved by holistically synergizing state-of-the-art interdisciplinary technologies of biosensors, minimally invasive tools, and hydrogels. The proposed CGM consists of three major parts: (i) an emerging biochemical signal amplifier, the organic electrochemical transistor (OECT), improving the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) beyond traditional electrochemical sensors; (ii) a microneedle array to facilitate subcutaneous glucose sampling with minimized pain; and (iii) a soft hydrogel to stabilize the skin-device interface. Compared to conventional CGMs, the OECT-CGM offers a high antinoise ability, tunable sensitivity and resolution, and comfort wearability, enabling personalized glucose sensing for future precision diabetes health care. Last, we discuss how OECT technology can help push the limit of detection of current wearable electrochemical biosensors, especially when operating in complicated conditions.

A real-time constellation image classification method of wireless communication signals based on the lightweight network MobileViT

Automatic modulation classification (AMC) is a challenging topic in the development of cognitive radio, which can sense and learn surrounding electromagnetic environments and help to make corresponding decisions. In this paper, we propose to complete the real-time AMC through constructing a lightweight neural network MobileViT driven by the clustered constellation images. Firstly, the clustered constellation images are transformed from I/Q sequences to help extract robust and discriminative features. Then the lightweight neural network called MobileViT is developed for the real-time constellation image classification. Experimental results on the public dataset RadioML 2016.10a with edge computing platform demonstrate the superiority and efficiency of MobileViT. Furthermore, the extensive ablation tests prove the robustness of the proposed method to the learning rate and batch size. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to deploy the deep learning model to complete the real-time classification of modulation schemes of received signals at the edge.

CircUSP1 as a novel marker promotes gastric cancer progression via stabilizing HuR to upregulate USP1 and Vimentin

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating various tumors. However, their biological functions and mechanisms in gastric cancer (GC) have not been well understood. Here, we discovered a stable cytoplasmic circRNA named circUSP1 (hsa_circ_000613) in GC. CircUSP1 upregulation in GC tissues was correlated with tumor size and differentiation. We observed that circUSP1 promoted GC growth and metastasis. Mechanistically, circUSP1 mainly interacted with the RRM1 domain of an RNA-binding protein (RBP) called HuR, stabilizing its protein level by inhibiting β-TrCP-mediated ubiquitination degradation. The oncogenic properties of HuR mediated promotive effects of circUSP1 in GC progression. Moreover, we identified USP1 and Vimentin as downstream targets of HuR in post-transcriptional regulation, mediating the effects of circUSP1. The parent gene USP1 also enhanced the viability and mobility of GC cells. Additionally, tissue-derived circUSP1 could serve as an independent prognostic factor for GC, while plasma-derived circUSP1 showed promise as a diagnostic biomarker, outperforming conventional markers including serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen 199 (CA19-9). Our study highlights that circUSP1 promotes GC progression by binding to and stabilizing oncogenic HuR, thereby facilitating the upregulation of USP1 and Vimentin at the post-transcriptional level. These findings suggest that circUSP1 could be a potential therapeutic target and a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for GC.

[A sampling survey of intraoperative facial nerve monitoring in China]

Objective: This study aims to investigate the current application and the level of knowledge of intraoperative facial nerve monitoring among medical staff in China. Methods: A comprehensive online questionnaire was conducted among medical professionals across different regions in China from October 2022 to February 2023. The survey exclusively targeted departments specializing in otolaryngology, head and neck surgery, neurosurgery, and oral and maxillofacial surgery. The questionnaire covered various aspects including general information, intraoperative facial nerve monitoring practices, training history, indications for monitoring, parameters used during monitoring procedures, as well as factors influencing its implementation. Results: A total of 417 participants from 31 provincial, municipal, and autonomous regions were included. Intraoperative facial nerve monitoring was found to be implemented in 227 (54.4%,227/417) repondents of 53 institutions (24.9%, 53/213). The top three indications for implementing this technique were acoustic neuroma, parotid gland surgery, and modified middle ear surgery (mastoidectomy). Herein 81.1%(184/227) medical staff involved in intraoperative facial nerve monitoring had received relevant training, 57.3%(130/227)-92.1%(209/227) reported a lack of clear description regarding recording thresholds, stimulation currents/frequencies/wave widths. Conclusion: The majority of the institutions surveyed have not yet adopted intraoperative facial nerve monitoring. Furthermore, significant gaps concerning the procedure exist. It is imperative to establish standards or guidelines to promote its better development and application.

cGAS-STING pathway agonists are promising vaccine adjuvants

Adjuvants are of critical value in vaccine development as they act on enhancing immunogenicity of antigen and inducing long-lasting immunity. However, there are only a few adjuvants that have been approved for clinical use, which highlights the need for exploring and developing new adjuvants to meet the growing demand for vaccination. Recently, emerging evidence demonstrates that the cGAS-STING pathway orchestrates innate and adaptive immunity by generating type I interferon responses. Many cGAS-STING pathway agonists have been developed and tested in preclinical research for the treatment of cancer or infectious diseases with promising results. As adjuvants, cGAS-STING agonists have demonstrated their potential to activate robust defense immunity in various diseases, including COVID-19 infection. This review summarized the current developments in the field of cGAS-STING agonists with a special focus on the latest applications of cGAS-STING agonists as adjuvants in vaccination. Potential challenges were also discussed in the hope of sparking future research interests to further the development of cGAS-STING as vaccine adjuvants.

Optimizing image quality and minimizing radiation dose in pediatric abdominal multiphase contrast-enhanced computed tomography: a study on CARE kV and CARE Dose 4D

Background

Multiphase contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is a commonly used modality in pediatric computed tomography (CT) scans. However, the purposes and focus of each phase, such as CT angiography (CTA), and parenchymal phase, are different. In routine practice, the same scanning parameters are used for all phases, resulting in unnecessary radiation exposure for children. Accurately and rapidly adjusting the scanning parameters for each phase of CECT is challenging in clinical settings. This retrospective cross-sectional study was designed to investigate the feasibility of using both CARE kV and CARE Dose 4D to reduce the radiation dose while maintaining diagnostic quality in multiphase CECT scans of children.

Methods

Overall, 57 children (33 males and 24 females) who underwent multiphase abdominal CECT in Xinjiang Hospital of Beijing Children's Hospital with an average age of 6.52±4.30 years (range, 0.1-15 years), were enrolled. The tube voltage was automatically modulated using CARE kV. The tube current was automatically modulated using CARE Dose 4D. Different dose saving optimization indices (DI) were used for the three phases: a DI value of 3 was used for the unenhanced CT phase, a DI value of 12 was used for the CTA phase, and a DI value of 7 was used for the parenchymal phase. The tube voltage and volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) were recorded for each phase. Two reviewers subjectively evaluated the overall image quality and noise level of the three phases using a 5-point Likert scale (1-2 points: unqualified, 3 points: qualified, 4 points: better, 5 points: best). The CT and noise values of the descending aorta, liver, and back muscle were measured objectively. The voltage distribution and the image quality and CTDIvol in each phase were compared.

Results

The most selected tube voltage in the unenhanced CT, CTA, and parenchymal phases was 100 kV (49/57, 85.96%), 70 kV (36/57, 63.16%), and 80 kV (32/57, 56.14%), respectively. The differences between the three phases were statistically significant (P<0.001). The CTDIvol values of the three phases were 3.99±1.99, 2.02±1.71, and 3.18±2.10 mGy, respectively, with a significant difference between the three phases (P<0.001). The CTDIvol decreased linearly as the DI value increased. All images met the diagnostic requirements. The overall quality scores for the three phases were 4.24±0.42, 4.41±0.49, and 4.50±0.45, respectively, with no significant linear relationship with the change in the DI.

Conclusions

The combined use of CARE Dose 4D and CARE kV could effectively reduce the radiation dose in children during multiphase abdominal CECT without compromising the diagnostic image quality.

Noncentrosymmetric Na6Pb3P4S16 and Centrosymmetric K2MIIP2S6 (MII = Mg and Zn) Displaying Multiple Membered-Ring Configurations and Strong Optical Anisotropy

Three thiophosphates including noncentrosymmetric Na6Pb3P4S16 and centrosymmetric K2MIIP2S6 (MII = Mg and Zn) were successfully synthesized in vacuum-sealed silica tubes. Note that interesting multiple six membered-rings (6-MRs) including 6-NaS6-MRs and 6-KSn-MRs (n = 6 and 7) formed by A+-centered polyhedra were discovered in the structures of title thiophosphates and these MR-composed three-dimensional (3D) tunnels show great possibility to facilitate the filling of various structural blocks (such as zero-dimensional (0D) Pb3S10 trimers or one-dimensional (1D) (MIISn)n chains). Na6Pb3P4S16 exhibits the strongest nonlinear optical (NLO) response (5.4 × AgGaS2) with phase-matching (PM) behavior among the known Pb-based PM NLO sulfides, which is much larger than that of Pb3P2S8 (3.5 × AgGaS2); it was verified that such large second harmonic generation (SHG) response in Na6Pb3P4S16 can be attributed to the huge contribution of stereochemically active PbS4 units based on the SHG-density and dipole-moment calculations. Moreover, title thiophosphates show large birefringences (Δn = 0.102-0.21), which indicates that incorporation of [P2S6] dimers or polarized PbS4 units into structures provides positive benefits for the onset of strong optical anisotropy.

Potential Immunoregulatory Mechanism of Plant Saponins: A Review

Saponins are extracted from different parts of plants such as seeds, roots, stems, and leaves and have a variety of biological activities including immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory effects, and hypoglycemic properties. They demonstrate inherent low immunogenicity and possess the capacity to effectively regulate both the innate and adaptive immune responses. Plant saponins can promote the growth and development of the body's immune organs through a variety of signaling pathways, regulate the activity of a variety of immune cells, and increase the secretion of immune-related cytokines and antigen-specific antibodies, thereby exerting the role of immune activity. However, the chemical structure of plant saponins determines its certain hemolytic and cytotoxicity. With the development of science and technology, these disadvantages can be avoided or reduced by certain technical means. In recent years, there has been a significant surge in interest surrounding the investigation of plant saponins as immunomodulators. Consequently, the objective of this review is to thoroughly examine the immunomodulatory properties of plant saponins and elucidate their potential mechanisms, with the intention of offering a valuable point of reference for subsequent research and advancement within this domain.

Effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum on oxidative stress, mitophagy, and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in broiler breast meat

Poultry meat has a high polyunsaturated fatty acids content, making it vulnerable to oxidative stress. Mitophagy participates in the regulation of oxidative stress and the nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor family as well as pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P8 (P8) is a probiotic strain with an antioxidant capacity. In the present study, we investigated the effects of P8 on oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, mitophagy, and NLRP3 inflammasome in the breast meat of oxidatively stressed broilers. Four hundred 1-day-old male broilers were assigned to a 2 × 2 factorial design with 2 P8 levels (0 or 1 × 108 cfu/g), either with or without dexamethasone (DEX) injection, for a 21-day experimental period. DEX was injected intraperitoneally once daily from d 16 to 21. The breast meat was collected on d 21. The results showed that P8 supplementation decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and activated the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway in DEX-injected broilers. Moreover, P8 supplementation downregulated mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and increased the expressions of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1α (PGC-1α), silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), mitochondrial fusion protein 1 (Mfn1), and optic atrophy protein 1 (OPA1) in DEX-treated broilers. In addition, the decreased mitophagy level in DEX-treated broilers was elevated with P8 supplementation, as reflected by the increased gene expression of autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5), Bcl-2-interacting protein (Becline-1), Parkin, PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1), light chain 3 II (LC3II)/LC31, and the protein expression of Parkin as well as decreased p62 expression. In addition, P8 supplementation inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation by decreasing the transcription of NLRP3, IL-18, cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteinase-1 (Caspase-1), and the expression of NLRP3 and IL-18 in DEX-treated broilers. In conclusion, dietary P8 supplementation alleviates oxidative stress, improves mitophagy, and inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the breast meat of oxidatively stressed broilers.

Tumor microenvironment, histone modifications, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are important components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which drive the tumor immune escape by inducing immunosuppression. The expansion and function of MDSCs are tightly associated with signaling pathways induced by molecules from tumor cells, stromal cells, and activated immune cells in the TME. Although these pathways have been well-characterized, the understanding of the epigenetic regulators involved is incomplete. Since histone modifications are the most studied epigenetic changes in MDSCs, we summarize current knowledge on the role of histone modifications in MDSCs within this review. We first discuss the influence of the TME on histone modifications in MDSCs, with an emphasis on histone modifications and modifiers that direct MDSC differentiation and function. Furthermore, we highlight current epigenetic interventions that can reverse MDSC-induced immunosuppression by modulating histone modifications and discuss future research directions to fully appreciate the role of histone modifications in MDSCs.

Immunoglobulin superfamily 6 is a molecule involved in the anti-tumor activity of macrophages in lung adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Immunoglobulin superfamily 6 (IGSF6) is a novel member of the immunoglobulin superfamily and has been implicated in various diseases. However, the specific role of IGSF6 in the anti-tumor immunity within lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains unclear.

METHODS

We analyzed the IGSF6 expression in LUAD using data from TCGA, and we performed qRT-PCR and western blotting to validate these findings using tissue samples obtained from LUAD patients. Images of IHC staining were obtained from HPA. To assess the clinical relevance of IGSF6 expression, we utilized UALCAN and SPSS to analyze its association with major clinical features of LUAD. Additionally, we employed ROC curves and survival analysis to evaluate the potential diagnostic and prognostic value of IGSF6 in LUAD. To gain insights into the functional implications of IGSF6, we performed enrichment analysis using the R software clusterProfiler package. Moreover, we utilized TIMER2.0 and TISIDB to investigate the relationship between IGSF6 and immune infiltrates in LUAD. The proportion of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in LUAD was assessed using FCM, and their correlation with IGSF6 expression in tumor tissues was analyzed. The localization of IGSF6 protein on macrophages was confirmed using the HPA and FCM. To determine the regulatory role of IGSF6 on macrophage activity in LUAD, we employed ELISA, FCM, and tumor-bearing models.

RESULTS

We discovered that both IGSF6 mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased in LUAD. Additionally, we observed a negative correlation between IGSF6 expression and TNM stages as well as pathologic stages in LUAD. Notably, IGSF6 exhibited high sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing LUAD, and was positively associated with the survival rate of LUAD patients. Furthermore, IGSF6 expression was closely linked to gene sets involved in immune response. IGSF6 expression showed a positive correlation with immune infiltrates exhibiting anti-tumor activity, particularly M1 macrophages. We confirmed the predominant localization of the IGSF6 protein on the membrane of M1 macrophages. Importantly, the knockdown of IGSF6 resulted in a reduction in the anti-tumor activity of M1 macrophages, thereby promoting tumor progression.

CONCLUSION

IGSF6 is a molecule that is essential for the anti-tumor activity of macrophages in LUAD.

In Vitro Biological Activity and Primary Structure of Polysaccharide Extracted from Flower of Panax Ginseng C.A. Meyer

This study investigates how three different extraction methods impact the biological activity and structure characteristics of polysaccharides from the flower of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer. The three polysaccharides were named AHEP, DWEP and ANEP that extracted by acid solvent (HCL 0.01 mol/L), distilled water and alkali solvent (NaOH 0.01 mol/L) respectively. The results showed that the yield of ANEP was highest compared to the others, as well as the capacity of antioxidant, cholate-binding and inhibition to α-glucosidase were better than AHEP and DWEP (P<0.05). Moreover, the activity retention rate in vitro with simulated digestion demonstrated that ANEP were superior to AHEP and DWEP. The large components, nominated ANEP-1 and ANEP-2, were eluted from the ANEP by DEAE-52-cellulose. UV-Vis and FT-IR analysis demonstrated that ANEP-1 and ANEP-2 had typical characteristic absorption of proteoglycan, but SEM results showed that the surface shapes of ANEP-1 and ANEP-2 were quite different. It can be concluded that ANEP has great potential as an effective strategy for obtaining polysaccharides from ginseng flower.

A Combination of B- and N-Doped π-Systems Enabling Systematic Tuning of Electronic Structures and Properties

Doping heteroatoms into polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) may alter their structures and thereby physical properties. This study reports the construction of B/N-codoped PAHs via combining the B- and N-doped π-systems. Two π-extended B/N-codoped PAHs were synthesized through the Mallory photoreaction. Both feature a C48 BN2 π-skeleton, which is assembled by linearly fusing three substructures including B-doped and sp2 -hybridized N-doped π-moieties and one pyrene unit. In comparison to the pristine B-doped analog, their intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) states are distinctly modulated by the fused N-doped π-system and the further incorporated cyano group, leading to their tunable optical properties, as revealed by detailed theoretical and experimental analysis. Furthermore, these three molecules have sufficient Lewis acidity and can coordinate with Lewis base to form Lewis acid-base adducts, and notably, such intermolecular complexation can further dynamically modulate their ICT transitions and thereby photophysical properties, such as producing blue, green and red fluorescence.

Repression of LSD1 potentiates homologous recombination-proficient ovarian cancer to PARP inhibitors through down-regulation of BRCA1/2 and RAD51

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) are selectively active in ovarian cancer (OC) with homologous recombination (HR) deficiency (HRD) caused by mutations in BRCA1/2 and other DNA repair pathway members. We sought molecular targeted therapy that induce HRD in HR-proficient cells to induce synthetic lethality with PARPi and extend the utility of PARPi. Here, we demonstrate that lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) is an important regulator for OC. Importantly, genetic depletion or pharmacological inhibition of LSD1 induces HRD and sensitizes HR-proficient OC cells to PARPi in vitro and in multiple in vivo models. Mechanistically, LSD1 inhibition directly impairs transcription of BRCA1/2 and RAD51, three genes essential for HR, dependently of its canonical demethylase function. Collectively, our work indicates combination with LSD1 inhibitor could greatly expand the utility of PARPi to patients with HR-proficient tumor, warranting assessment in human clinical trials.

Diradicaloid Boron-Doped Molecular Carbons Achieved by Pentagon-Fusion

Molecular carbons (MCs) are molecular cutouts of carbon materials. Doping with heteroatoms and constructing open-shell structures are two powerful approaches to achieve unexpected and unique properties of MCs. Herein, we disclose a new strategy to design open-shell boron-doped MCs (BMCs), namely by pentagon-fusion of an organoborane π-system. We synthesized two diradicaloid BMC molecules that feature C24 B and C38 B π-skeletons containing a pentagonal ring. A thorough investigation reveals that such pentagon-fusion not only leads to their local antiaromaticity, but also incorporates an internal quinoidal substructure and thereby induces open-shell singlet diradical states. Moreover, their fully fused structures enable efficient π conjugation, which is expanded over the whole frameworks. Consequently, some intriguing physical properties are achieved, such as narrow energy gaps, very broad light absorptions, and superior photothermal capability, along with excellent photostability. Notably, the solid of the C38 B molecule exhibits absorption that covers the range of 300-1200 nm and an efficiency of 93.5 % for solar-driven water evaporation, thus demonstrating the potential of diradicaloid BMCs as high-performance organic photothermal materials.

Deep learning assisted sparse array ultrasound imaging

This study aims to restore grating lobe artifacts and improve the image resolution of sparse array ultrasonography via a deep learning predictive model. A deep learning assisted sparse array was developed using only 64 or 16 channels out of the 128 channels in which the pitch is two or eight times the original array. The deep learning assisted sparse array imaging system was demonstrated on ex vivo porcine teeth. 64- and 16-channel sparse array images were used as the input and corresponding 128-channel dense array images were used as the ground truth. The structural similarity index measure, mean squared error, and peak signal-to-noise ratio of predicted images improved significantly (p < 0.0001). The resolution of predicted images presented close values to ground truth images (0.18 mm and 0.15 mm versus 0.15 mm). The gingival thickness measurement showed a high level of agreement between the predicted sparse array images and the ground truth images, as indicated with a bias of -0.01 mm and 0.02 mm for the 64- and 16-channel predicted images, respectively, and a Pearson's r = 0.99 (p < 0.0001) for both. The gingival thickness bias measured by deep learning assisted sparse array imaging and clinical probing needle was found to be <0.05 mm. Additionally, the deep learning model showed capability of generalization. To conclude, the deep learning assisted sparse array can reconstruct high-resolution ultrasound image using only 16 channels of 128 channels. The deep learning model performed generalization capability for the 64-channel array, while the 16-channel array generalization would require further optimization.

[Bioinformatics analysis of the RNA binding protein DDX39 of Toxoplasma gondii]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the RNA binding protein of Toxoplasma gondii (TgDDX39) using bioinformatics technology, and to evaluate the immunogenicity of TgDDX39, so as to provide insights into development of toxoplasmosis vaccines.

METHODS

The amino acid sequences of TgDDX39 were retrieved from the ToxoDB database, and the physicochemical properties, transmembrane structure domain, signal peptide sites, post-translational modification sites, coils, secondary and tertiary structures, hydrophobicity, and antigenic epitopes of the TgDDX39 protein were predicted using online bioinformatics tools, incluiding ProtParam, TMHMM 2.0, SignalP 5.0, NetPhos 3.1, COILS, SOPMA, Phyre2, ProtScale, ABCpred, SYFPEITHI and DNA-STAR.

RESULTS

TgDDX39 protein was predicted to be an unstable hydrophilic protein with the molecular formula of C2173H3458N598O661S18, which contained 434 amino acids and had an estimated molecular weight of 49.1 kDa and a theoretical isoelectric point of 5.55. The protein was predicted to have an extremely low possibility of signal peptides, without transmembrane regions, and contain 27 phosphorylation sites. The β turn and random coils accounted for 39.63% of the secondary structure of the TgDDX39 protein, and a coiled helix tended to produce in one site. In addition, the TgDDX39 protein contained multiple B and T cell antigenic epitopes.

CONCLUSIONS

Bioinformatics analyses predict that TgDDX39 protein has high immunogenicity and contains multiple antigenic epitopes. TgDDX39 protein is a potential candidate antigen for vaccine development.

Efficacy and Safety of Local Radiotherapy Combined with Chemotherapy ± Bevacizumab in the Treatment of Patients with Advanced and Recurrent Metastatic Cervical Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To observe the efficacy and safety of local radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy ± bevacizumab in the treatment of patients with advanced or recurrent metastatic cervical cancer.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A total of 53 patients with advanced and recurrent metastatic cervical cancer who had received local radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy ± bevacizumab in Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Guizhou Medical University from July 2018 to October 2021 were collected. The recurrence types included 21 patients of pelvic recurrence, 7 patients of distant metastasis, 14 patients of complex pelvic recurrence and distant metastasis, and 11 patients of advanced stage (initial diagnosis stage IVB). The primary endpoints were objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR). The secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and incidence of adverse reactions.

RESULTS

(1) Complete response (CR) was achieved in 4 patients (7.5%), partial response (PR) in 34 patients (64.2%), stable disease (SD) in 12 patients (22.6%), and disease progression (PD) in 3 patients (5.7%), ORR was 71.7%, DCR was 94.3%. (2) The follow-up time was 5.3 to 45.7 months, the median OS was 29.3 months, the median PFS was 15.7 months, the one-year and two-year OS were 83.0% and 59.2%, and the 1-year and two-year PFS were 62.2% and 34.4%. (3) Recurrence type, tumor size at the time of recurrence, and efficacy after radiotherapy were significant factors for PFS and OS rates in multivariate analysis. (4) The main adverse reactions were myelosuppression, gastrointestinal reaction and urinary reaction. Grade IV leukopenia occurred at 13.2%, grade IV neutropenia at 11.3%, grade IV thrombocytopenia at 15.1%, and grade IV anemia at 5.7%, all of which were tolerable. The gastrointestinal and urinary reactions were mainly grade I-II, and the incidence of vesical or rectovaginal fistulas was about 7.5% (2 patients had rectovaginal fistulas and 2 patients had vesto-vaginal fistulas).

CONCLUSION

Local radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy ± bevacizumab can improve the efficacy and survival of patients with advanced and recurrent metastatic cervical cancer. Adverse reactions are tolerable and may provide survival benefits in these patients.

Acute aerobic exercise regulation of myocardial calcium homeostasis involves CASQ1, CASQ2, and TRDN

Exercise maintains cardiac calcium homeostasis and promotes cardiovascular health. This study explored temporal changes of calcium-related myocardial transcriptome changes during the recovery phase following a single bout of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise. Healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with sodium pentobarbital after moderate-intensity aerobic exercise at four time points (0, 12, 24, and 72 h postexercise). The hearts were removed and RNA-seq and bioinformatics analyses were used to examine temporal transcriptional changes in the myocardium. Casq1, Casq2, and Trdn were identified as key genes in the regulation of calcium homeostasis during myocardial recovery. The highest expression of Casq1, Casq2, and Trdn genes and the proteins they encode occurred 24 h after exercise. An in vitro calcium overload heart model using the Langendorff heart perfusion method was used to examine myocardial calcium buffering capacity. Calcium overload caused the least changes in left ventricular developed pressure, infarct area, Lactate dehydrogenase release, and extent of morphological damage to myocardial cells, with the highest protein expressions of CASQ1, CASQ2, and TRDN at 24 h after acute exercise. This study indicates that maximal myocardial Ca2+ buffering capacity occurs 24 h postexercise in rats. Our study provides insights into exercise-mediated improvements in cardiovascular function and exercise preconditioning.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Acute aerobic exercise upregulates myocardial Casq1, Casq2, and Trdn genes and the proteins they encode in rats. Higher protein levels of CASQ1, CASQ2, and TRDN conferred an improved ability of the myocardium to resist calcium overload. Furthermore, 24 h postexercise is the time point with optimal myocardial calcium buffer capacity.

Effect of Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy on Regulatory T Cells,CD8/Treg Ratio,PD1 and CTLA-4 in Patients with Cervical Cancer

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To investigate the significance of chemoradiotherapy on regulatory T (Treg) cells, CD8 / Treg ratio, squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC), PD1, and CTLA-4 in the peripheral blood of cervical cancer (CC)patients.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A retrospective study was performed 56 cervical cancer patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy from September 06, 2019 to April 19, 2021 were selected, in patients who underwent surgery. Flow cytometry was used to determine the levels of regulatory T cells, CD8 / Treg ratio, squamous cell carcinoma antigen, PD1, and CTLA-4 in the peripheral blood of patients before and after concurrent therapy, Differences in relative level values before and after treatment were calculated using statistical protocols such as the paired samples t-test.

RESULTS

The proportion of CD4+CD25+CD127low Treg in CD4+T cells was (15.96±4.29) % in cervical cancer patients and (9.76±4.21) % in healthy controls, and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). In different age groups, Treg, CD8 levels, CD4/CD8 ratio and CD8/Treg ratio before and after radiotherapy and chemotherapy had no significant relationship with age and pathological types (P > 0.05), but CD8/Treg ratio was higher in patients with adenocarcinoma than in patients with squamous cell carcinoma after radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and the difference was statistically significant (Z = -2.076 P = 0.038). For postoperative patients, CD8 levels were lower before and after chemoradiotherapy than after chemoradiotherapy (T = -2.320 P = 0.020). In terms of PD1, regardless of age, pathological type, the level of PD1 after radiotherapy and chemotherapy was higher than that before chemotherapy, and the difference was statistically significant. The level of adenocarcinoma (53.50±10.16) % was significantly higher than that of squamous carcinoma (43.72±11.89) % (T = -2.609 P = 0.011). The PD1 level of patients with cervical cancer radical resection (41.64±13.29) % was lower than that of patients without cervical cancer radical resection (46.84±10.61) %, the difference was statistically significant (T = 2.187 P = 0.031). The PD1 level of patients without pelvic lymph node metastasis (48.84±10.04) was significantly higher than that of patients with pelvic lymph node metastasis (42.96±10.85), and the difference was statistically significant (T = -2.019 P = 0.049), There were no significant differences in vascular positivity, invasion depth, stump positivity, pelvic lymph node positivity and Treg level, CD8 level, CTLA4 level, SCC, CD4/CD8 ratio, CD8/Treg ratio (ALL P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The level of Treg cells in patients with cervical cancer is significantly higher than that in healthy people, and it does not decrease immediately after radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Peripheral blood Treg, PD1, CD8 and CD8/Treg can reflect the immune function of the body, which may provide a certain reference for immunotherapy.

Stretchable ultrasonic arrays for the three-dimensional mapping of the modulus of deep tissue

Serial assessment of the biomechanical properties of tissues can be used to aid the early detection and management of pathophysiological conditions, to track the evolution of lesions and to evaluate the progress of rehabilitation. However, current methods are invasive, can be used only for short-term measurements, or have insufficient penetration depth or spatial resolution. Here we describe a stretchable ultrasonic array for performing serial non-invasive elastographic measurements of tissues up to 4 cm beneath the skin at a spatial resolution of 0.5 mm. The array conforms to human skin and acoustically couples with it, allowing for accurate elastographic imaging, which we validated via magnetic resonance elastography. We used the device to map three-dimensional distributions of the Young's modulus of tissues ex vivo, to detect microstructural damage in the muscles of volunteers before the onset of soreness and to monitor the dynamic recovery process of muscle injuries during physiotherapies. The technology may facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting tissue biomechanics.

Long-Term Outcome of Rectal Cancer Patients Treated by High-Dose Radiotherapy and Concurrent Chemotherapy

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To explore the therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects of high-dose radiotherapy concurrently with chemotherapy in treating patients with non-metastatic rectal cancer.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Patients were enrolled if they were diagnosed with stage I-III rectal adenocarcinoma, refused surgery and received high-dose pelvic radiotherapy and concurrent chemotherapy instead. Their clinical data were retrospectively analyzed for calculating local control and survival rates. Treatment related toxicities was evaluated according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 5.0).

RESULTS

Between April 2006 and February 2021, a total of 93 patients in our medical center were eligible for this study, with a median age of 61 (range, 21-84) years. Of those, 86 (92.5%) patients had tumors located within 5 cm of the anal verge. There were 8 (8.6%), 30 (32.3%) and 55 (59.1%) patients diagnosed with stage I, II and III, respectively. All patients received fluorouracil-based chemotherapy (single-agent fluorouracil or FOLFOX regimen). The irradiation techniques included three-dimensional conformal and intensity-modulated radiation therapy. The median total radiation dose for gross tumor volume (GTV) was 80 (range, 60-90) Gy. The 15 (16.1%) patients refusing surgery before treatment received one course of radiation (60-70 Gy/30-35 Fr). And a 2-course radiation (Course 1, 45-50 Gy/25 Fr; Course 2: 24-40 Gy/12-20 Fr) were given to the 78 (83.9%) patients who failed to achieve clinical complete remission (cCR) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy but still refused surgery, with a median interval of 79 (range, 35-195) days. The median follow-up duration was 66 (range, 10-161) months. The 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) rates for all patients were 90.5% and 72.7%, respectively. The clinical complete remission rate at the end of chemoradiotherapy was 69.9%. Colostomy was performed in the 14 patients whose rectal tumor did not attain cCR or progressed. There was no grade 4/5 severe acute toxicity. No patient suffered from intestinal perforation. Only one patient developed anal stenosis. Because of rectal bleeding, blood transfusion was performed in 7 patients, and one patient underwent an enterostomy.

CONCLUSION

High-dose radiotherapy concurrent with chemotherapy brought encouraging survival outcomes, satisfactory organ preservation and acceptable short- and long-term side effects. It might be a safe and non-invasive alternative to abdominoperineal resection in rectal cancer patients refusing or unsuitable for surgery, especially for those with a low-position tumor.

Silva Classification System for HPV-Related EAC of Stage I ∼ IIIc1p Cervical Adenocarcinoma and Its Effect on Prognosis and Survival

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

The proportion of adenocarcinoma in cervical cancer gradually increased and presented a younger trend. The previous pathological classification of cervical adenocarcinoma is difficult to provide reference for clinical treatment. In recent years, Silva classification, a new pathologic system for cervical adenocarcinoma, has been confirmed to be suitable for HPV-associated adenocarcinoma (HPVA), and has shown certain clinical application value in subsequent studies. Therefore, this study will retrospectively analyze the distribution of Silva typing system in patients with HPVA under standard treatment mode and its relationship with prognosis and survival.

MATERIALS/METHODS

From January 2010 to September 2021, 124 cervical adenocarcinoma patients with HPVA were retrospectively included, who underwent radical resection of cervical cancer. The HE staining sections of the patients were divided into SilvaA, SilvaB, and SilvaC types according to the Silva typing system. Kaplan-Meier calculation was used for single-factor analysis, and COX stepwise regression model was used for multi-factor analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 124 patients with HPVA who could be graded according to the Silva system, 16 (12.9%, 16/124) were SilvaA, 27 (21.7%, 27/124) SilvaB, and 81 (65.4%, 81/124) SilvaC. In Silva classification, FIGO staging of Silva A and B was stage I. And FIGO staging of Silva C was more significantly later than the staging of Silva A and B. All lymph node metastases and paruterine infiltrates were found only in Silva C. In addition, the patients with Silva C large mass accounted for a higher proportion (41.7%). SilvaA type cervical adenocarcinoma patients were in a survival state by the end of follow-up. Among Silva B, 3 patients died due to tumor, and the 5-year OS rate were 91.3%. Among SilvaC, 15 patients died due to tumor, and the 5-year OS rate were 76.5%. FIGO stage and lymph node invasion were the influencing factors for survival and prognosis of Silva classification (P <0.05). FIGO stage, tumor size, lymph node invasion, and paralegal invasion were the influencing factors for survival and prognosis of SilvaC patients (P <0.05).

CONCLUSION

Silva model classification system combined with clinicopathological features has certain clinical value for the prognostic guidance of HPVA patients. Among Silva classification, SilvaC had the worst prognosis. Late FIGO stage, lymph node metastasis, and paralegal infiltration are the influencing factors for survival and prognosis of SilvaC type.

Small molecule activators of TAK1 promotes its activity-dependent ubiquitination and TRAIL-mediated tumor cell death

TAK1 is a key modulator of both NF-κB signaling and RIPK1. In TNF signaling pathway, activation of TAK1 directly mediates the phosphorylation of IKK complex and RIPK1. In a search for small molecule activators of RIPK1-mediated necroptosis, we found R406/R788, two small molecule analogs that could promote sustained activation of TAK1. Treatment with R406 sensitized cells to TNF-mediated necroptosis and RIPK1-dependent apoptosis by promoting sustained RIPK1 activation. Using click chemistry and multiple biochemical binding assays, we showed that treatment with R406 promotes the activation of TAK1 by directly binding to TAK1, independent of its original target Syk kinase. Treatment with R406 promoted the ubiquitination of TAK1 and the interaction of activated TAK1 with ubiquitinated RIPK1. Finally, we showed that R406/R788 could promote the cancer-killing activities of TRAIL in vitro and in mouse models. Our studies demonstrate the possibility of developing small molecule TAK1 activators to potentiate the effect of TRAIL as anticancer therapies.

Identification and validation of novel biomarkers associated with immune infiltration for the diagnosis of osteosarcoma based on machine learning

Objectives: Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant tumor in children and adolescents, and the 5-year survival of osteosarcoma patients gained no substantial improvement over the past decades. Effective biomarkers in diagnosing osteosarcoma are warranted to be developed. This study aims to explore novel biomarkers correlated with immune cell infiltration in the development and diagnosis of osteosarcoma. Methods: Three datasets (GSE19276, GSE36001, GSE126209) comprising osteosarcoma samples were extracted from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and merged to obtain the gene expression. Then, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by limma and potential biological functions and downstream pathways enrichment analysis of DEGs was performed. The machine learning algorithms LASSO regression model and SVM-RFE (support vector machine-recursive feature elimination) analysis were employed to identify candidate hub genes for diagnosing patients with osteosarcoma. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were developed to evaluate the discriminatory abilities of these candidates in both training and test sets. Furthermore, the characteristics of immune cell infiltration in osteosarcoma, and the correlations between these potential genes and immune cell abundance were illustrated using CIBERSORT. qRT-PCR and western blots were conducted to validate the expression of diagnostic candidates. Results: GEO datasets were divided into the training (merged GSE19276, GSE36001) and test (GSE126209) groups. A total of 71 DEGs were screened out in the training set, including 10 upregulated genes and 61 downregulated genes. These DEGs were primarily enriched in immune-related biological functions and signaling pathways. After machine learning by SVM-RFE and LASSO regression model, four biomarkers were chosen for the diagnostic nomogram for osteosarcoma, including ASNS, CD70, SRGN, and TRIB3. These diagnostic biomarkers all possessed high diagnostic values (AUC ranging from 0.900 to 0.955). Furthermore, these genes were significantly correlated with the infiltration of several immune cells, such as monocytes, macrophages M0, and neutrophils. Conclusion: Four immune-related candidate hub genes (ASNS, CD70, SRGN, TRIB3) with high diagnostic value were confirmed for osteosarcoma patients. These diagnostic genes were significantly connected with the immune cell abundance, suggesting their critical roles in the osteosarcoma tumor immune microenvironment. Our study provides highlights on novel diagnostic candidate genes with high accuracy for diagnosing osteosarcoma patients.

KDM2B regulates inflammation and oxidative stress of sepsis via targeting NF-κB and AP-1 pathways

BACKGROUNDS

The kidney is an easily affected organ with sepsis which is a main underlying cause of acute kidney injury (AKI). Histone-modifying lysine-specific demethylase 2B (KDM2B) is involved in numerous pathological processes, such as cell senescence and tumor development. However, the role of KDM2B in sepsis-induced AKI is unclear.

OBJECTS

To investigate the role of KDM2B on cell viability, inflammation and oxidative stress of sepsis-associated AKI, and the involved signaling pathways.

METHODS

An AKI model in vitro was established through lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induction in HK-2 cells. Western blots were performed to evaluate the expression of KDM2B, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), p65, c-Jun and c-Fos, as well as p65 phosphorylation. Cell viability was measured using CCK-8 kit. ELISA was performed to analyze the production of layered double hydroxide (LDH), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and H2 O2 . The qPCR was used to evaluate the transcription level of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, and VCAM-1.

RESULTS

KDM2B knockdown alleviated LPS-induced cytotoxicity, decreased LDH release, and improved cell viability. KDM2B knockdown reduced concentration of inflammation-related molecules including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, and VCAM-1, and inhibited their transcription. Moreover, KDM2B knockdown promoted the quantity of SOD and GSH, while declined the production of MDA, H2 O2 , COX2, and iNOS. Further, KDM2B played a role in LPS-induced HK-2 cell injury by activating nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1) pathways.

CONCLUSION

KDM2B knockdown reduced cytotoxicity, inflammation and oxidative stress in LPS-induced AKI via inhibiting NF-κB and AP-1 pathways, indicating KDM2B may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of sepsis-associated AKI.

Hepatic Proteomics Analysis Reveals Attenuated Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Lactiplantibacillus plantarum-Treated Oxidatively Stressed Broilers

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress plays important roles in oxidative stress (OS), contributing to liver injury. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum P8 (P8) was reported to regulate broiler OS and the gut microbiota in broilers, but its roles in hepatic ER stress remain unclear. In the present study, the role of P8 in liver OS and ER stress was evaluated, and proteomics was performed to determine the mechanism. Results revealed that P8 treatment decreased liver OS and ER stress in dexamethasone (DEX)-induced oxidatively stressed broilers. Proteomics showed that differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) induced by DEX cover the "cellular response to unfold protein" term. Moreover, the DEPs (GGT5, TXNDC12, and SRM) between DEX- and DEX + P8-treated broilers were related to OS and ER stress and enriched in the glutathione metabolism pathway. RT-qPCR further confirmed the results of proteomics. In conclusion, P8 attenuates hepatic OS and ER stress by regulating GGT5, TXNDC12, SRM, and glutathione metabolism in broilers.

[An improved 4-vessel intermittent occlusion method for establishing rat models of global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury]

OBJECTIVE

To improve the classical 4-vessel occlusion (4VO) model established by Pulsinelli and Brierley.

METHODS

Thirty-two male SD rats were randomized into sham operation group, I4VO-Con10 group, I4VO-Int10 group and I4VO-Int15 group. The sham surgery group underwent exposure of the bilateral vertebral arteries and carotid arteries without occlusion to block blood flow. The I4VO-Con10 group experienced continuous ischemia by occluding the bilateral vertebral arteries and carotid arteries for 10 minutes followed by reperfusion for 24 hours. The I4VO-Int10 and I4VO-Int15 groups were subjected to intermittent ischemia. The I4VO- Int10 group underwent 5 minutes of ischemia, followed by 5 minutes of reperfusion and another 5 minutes of ischemia, and then reperfusion for 24 hours. The I4VO-Int15 group experienced 5 minutes of ischemia followed by two cycles of 5 minutes of reperfusion and 5 minutes of ischemia, and then reperfusion for 24 hours. The regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) was monitored with laser Doppler scanning, and survival of the rats was observed. HE staining was used to observe hippocampal pathologies to determine the optimal method for modeling. Another 48 rats were randomized into 6 groups, including a sham operation group and 5 model groups established using the optimal method. The 5 I4VO model groups were further divided based on the reperfusion time points (1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 days) into I4VO-D1, I4VO-D3, I4VO-D7, I4VO- D14, and I4VO- D28 groups. Body weight changes and survival of the rats were recorded. HE staining was used to observe morphological changes in the hippocampal, retinal and optic tract tissues. The Y-maze test and light/dark box test were used to evaluate cognitive and visual functions of the rats in I4VO-D28 group.

RESULTS

Occlusion for 5 min for 3 times at the interval of 5 min was the optimal method for 4VO modeling. In the latter 48 rats, the body weight was significantly lower than that of the sham-operated rats at 1, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days after modeling without significant difference in survival rate among the groups. The rats with intermittent vessel occlusion exhibited progressive deterioration of hippocampal neuronal injury and neuronal loss. Cognitive impairment was observed in the rats in I4VO-D28 group, but no obvious ischemic injury of the retina or the optic tract was detected.

CONCLUSION

The improved 4VO model can successfully mimic the main pathological processes of global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury without causing visual impairment in rats.

Construction of Optimal Frequency Hopping Sequence Set with Low-Hit-Zone

In quasi-synchronous frequency-hopping multiple access (QS-FHMA) systems, low-hit-zone (LHZ) frequency-hopping sequence (FHS) sets have been well-applied to reduce mutual interference (MI). In this paper, we propose three constructions of LHZ FHS sets with new parameters via interleaving techniques. The obtained sequences can be verified that they are optimal with respect to the Peng-Fan-Lee bound.

[Identification and verification of α-11 giardin-interacting protein]

OBJECTIVE

To identify and verify the interacting protein of α-11 giardin, so as provide the experimental evidence for studies on the α-11 giardin function.

METHODS

The yeast two-hybrid cDNA library of the Giardia lambia C2 strain and the bait plasmid of α-11 giardin were constructed. All proteins interacting with α-11 giardin were screened using the yeast two-hybrid system. α-11 giardin and all screened potential interacting protein genes were constructed into pBiFc-Vc-155 and pBiFc-Vn-173 plasmids, and co-transfected into the breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. The interactions between α-11 giardin and interacting proteins were verified using bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC).

RESULTS

The yeast two-hybrid G. lambia cDNA library which was quantified at 2.715 × 10⁷ colony-forming units (CFU) and the bait plasmid containing α-11 giardin gene without an autoactivation activity were constructed. Following two-round positive screening with the yeast two-hybrid system, two potential proteins interacting with α-11 giardin were screened, including eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5A (EIF5A), calmodulin-dependent protein kinase (CAMKL) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-specific glutamate dehydrogenase (NADP-GDH), hypothetical protein 1 (GL50803_95880), hypothetical protein 2 (GL50803_87261) and a protein from Giardia canis virus. The α-11 giardin and EIF5A genes were transfected into the pBiFc-Vc-155 and pBiFc-Vn-173 plasmids using BiFC, and the recombinant plasmids pBiFc-Vc-155-α-11 and pBiFc-Vn-173-EIF5A were co-tranfected into MDA-MB-231 cells, which displayed green fluorescence under a microscope, indicating the interaction between α-11 giardin and EIF5A protein in cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The yeast two-hybrid cDNA library of the G. lambia C2 strain has been successfully constructed, and six potential protein interacting with α-11 giardin have been identified, including EIF5A that interacts with α-11 giardin in cells.

Recent Advances in Bioinspired Hydrogels: Materials, Devices, and Biosignal Computing

The remarkable ability of biological systems to sense and adapt to complex environmental conditions has inspired new materials and novel designs for next-generation wearable devices. Hydrogels are being intensively investigated for their versatile functions in wearable devices due to their superior softness, biocompatibility, and rapid stimulus response. This review focuses on recent strategies for developing bioinspired hydrogel wearable devices that can accommodate mechanical strain and integrate seamlessly with biological systems. We will provide an overview of different types of bioinspired hydrogels tailored for wearable devices. Next, we will discuss the recent progress of bioinspired hydrogel wearable devices such as electronic skin and smart contact lenses. Also, we will comprehensively summarize biosignal readout methods for hydrogel wearable devices as well as advances in powering and wireless data transmission technologies. Finally, current challenges facing these wearable devices are discussed, and future directions are proposed.

CircRNA CDR1as：a novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Circular RNA (circRNA) CDR1as is emerging as a vital tumor regulator. This study aimed to investigate its diagnostic and prognostic value and molecular mechanisms for gastric cancer (GC).

METHODS

CDR1as expression in GC and adjacent normal tissues (n = 82), paired plasma (n = 65) and plasma exosome samples (n = 68) from GC patients and healthy controls were determined by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Correlations between CDR1as level and clinicopathological factors of GC patients were analyzed. Its diagnostic and prognostic value was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and Cox regression analysis combined with Kaplan-Meier plots. CDR1as-regulated proteins and signaling pathways were identified by quantitative proteomics and bioinformatic analysis.

RESULTS

CDR1as was downregulated in GC tissues and associated with tumor size and neural invasion. Plasma- and exosome-derived CDR1as was upregulated in GC patients while plasma-derived CDR1as level was related to lymphatic metastasis. Area under ROC curve (AUC) of tissue-, plasma- and exosome-derived CDR1as was 0.782, 0.641, 0.536 while combination of plasma CDR1as, serum CEA and CA19-9 increased AUC to 0.786. Distal metastasis, TNM stage and tissue-derived CDR1as level were independent predictors for overall survival (OS) of patients. MiRNA signaling networks and glycine, serine and threonine metabolism were regulated by CDR1as and HSPE1 might be a key protein.

CONCLUSIONS

CDR1as is a crucial regulator and promising biomarker for GC diagnosis and prognosis.Clinical significanceCDR1as level in tumor tissues and plasma of GC patients was associated with tumor progression. The findings indicate that CDR1as is involved in GC progression and is a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.

Diradical B/N-Doped Polycyclic Hydrocarbons

Heterocyclic diradicaloids with atom-precise control over open-shell nature are promising materials for organic electronics and spintronics. Herein, we disclose quinoidal π-extension of a B/N-heterocycle for generating B/N-type organic diradicaloids. Two quinoidal π-extended B/N-doped polycyclic hydrocarbons that feature fusion of the B/N-heterocycle motif with the antiaromatic s-indacene or dicyclopenta[b,g]naphthalene core were synthesized. This quinoidal π-extension and B/N-heterocycle leads to their open-shell electronic nature, which stands in contrast to the multiple-resonance effect of conventional B/N-type emitters. These B/N-type diradicaloids have modulated (anti)aromaticity and enhanced diradical characters comparing with the all-carbon analogues, as well as intriguing properties, such as magnetic activities, narrow energy gaps and highly red-shifted absorptions. This study thus opens the new space for both of B/N-doped polycyclic π-systems and heterocyclic diradicaloids.

A quasi-two-dimensional fluid experimental apparatus based on tank-in-tank configuration

The fluid tank is an essential facility for experimental research on fluid mechanics. However, owing to the hydrostatic fluid pressure, a fine uniformity of the narrow channel is difficult to be maintained in a tall narrow-channel tank. To address this issue, we proposed a quasi-two-dimensional fluid experimental apparatus based on a "tank-in-tank" configuration and built with an outer tank and an inner tank. The outer tank was cuboid-shaped and used to load the fluid medium, while the inner tank, consisting of two parallel glass plates, was embedded into the outer tank and served as the experimental channel. The hydrostatic pressure acting on the channel was balanced so that a high level of uniformity was maintained over the whole channel. The available height and width of the channel were 2800 and 1500 mm, respectively, while its gap distance could be adaptive from 0 to 120 mm. Experimental research on motion characteristics of circular disks falling in the quasi-2D channel was implemented to investigate the effects of the falling environment and disk geometry. Four distinct falling types were observed, and the wake flow fields of the falling disks were visualized. The Reynolds numbers of falling disks ranged from 400 to 63 000 presently. Chaotic motion and regular motion were demarcated at Re ≈ 30 000. An analytical model was established to predict the final average falling velocity and Reynolds number. Finally, potential directions for future research and improvements to the apparatus were suggested.

Genetic polymorphisms in MIR1208 and MIR5708 are associated with susceptibility to COPD in the Chinese population

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a complex disease characterized by limited airflow and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of gene polymorphisms in MIR5708 and MIR1208 on COPD risk.

METHODS

Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MIR5708 (rs6473227 and rs16907751) and MIR1208 (rs2608029 and rs13280095) were selected and genotyped among 315 COPD patients and 314 healthy controls using the Agena MassARRAY platform. SPSS 18.0 was used for statistical analysis and data processing. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the association between genetic variants of MIR1208 and MIR5708 and COPD risk.

RESULTS

The results suggested that rs16907751 variants in MIR5708 contributed to an increased susceptibility to COPD in the allelic (P = 0.001), co-dominant (homozygous) (P = 0.001), dominant (P = 0.017), recessive (P = 0.002), and additive (P = 0.002) models. The effects of MIR5708 and MIR1208 gene polymorphisms on the risk of COPD were age-, sex-, smoking status-, and BMI-related. Furthermore, the C-A and G-A haplotypes of rs2608029 and rs13280095 in MIR1208 were identified as risk factors for COPD in the population over 70 years (P = 0.029) and in women (P = 0.049), respectively. Finally, significant associations between rs16907751genotypes with pulse rate and forced expiratory volume in 1 s were found among COPD patients.

CONCLUSION

Genetic polymorphisms in MIR5708 and MIR1208 are associated with increased risk of COPD in China.