Ba-Qi-Rougan formula alleviates hepatic fibrosis by suppressing hepatic stellate cell activation via the MSMP/CCR2/PI3K pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Ba-Qi-Rougan formula (BQRGF) is a traditional and effective compound prescription from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) utilized in treating hepatic fibrosis (HF).

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of BQRGF on HF and explore the underlying mechanisms of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technology was employed to identify the material basis of BQRGF. Mice with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced HF received BQRGF at three doses (3.87, 7.74, and 15.48 g/kg per day). We examined serum and liver biochemical indicators and liver histology to assess the therapeutic impact. Primary mouse cells were isolated and utilized for experimental analysis. MSMP expression levels were examined in vitro and in vivo experimental models, including human and mouse tissue. Furthermore, lentivirus and small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfections were employed to manipulate microseminoprotein (MSMP) expression in LO2 cells (human normal liver cells). These manipulated LO2 cells were then co-cultured with LX2 human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Through the modulation of MSMP expression in co-cultured cells, administering recombinant MSMP (rMSMP) with or without BQRGF-medicated serum, and using specific pathway inhibitors or agonists in LX2 cells, we elucidated the underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS

A total of 48 compounds were identified from BQRGF, with 12 compounds being absorbed into the bloodstream and 9 compounds being absorbed into the liver. Four weeks of BQRGF treatment in the HF mouse model led to significant improvements in biochemical and molecular assays and histopathology, particularly in the medium and high-dose groups. These improvements included a reduction in the level of liver injury and fibrosis-related factors. MSMP levels were elevated in human and mouse fibrotic liver tissues, and this increase was mitigated in HF mice treated with BQRGF. Moreover, primary cells and co-culture studies revealed that BQRGF reduced MSMP expression, decreased the expression of the hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation markers, and suppressed critical phosphorylated protein levels in the CCR2/PI3K/AKT pathway. These findings were further validated using CCR2/PI3K/AKT signaling inhibitors and agonists in MSMP-activated LX2 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, our results suggest that BQRGF combats HF by diminishing MSMP levels and inhibiting MSMP-induced HSC activation through the CCR2/PI3K/AKT pathway.

In-situ photo-crosslinkable elastomer based on polyalphaolefin/halloysite nanohybrid

In this research, new injectable and in situ photocurable elastomeric nanohybrids have been fabricated from polyalphaolefin (PAO) resins and halloysite nanofiller. In this regard, the co-oligomerization of long α-olefin monomers (C6, C8 and C10) with alkenol counterparts was carried out via a simple cationic route to provide OH-functionalized PAOs. The newly formed PAO type copolymer resins as well as halloysite nanoclay were then equipped with photocurable CC bonds containing an acrylate moiety. After the characterization of the final chemical substances and also of the intermediate structures, experimentally and computationally by means of Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, the neat treated PAO and PAO/halloysite nanohybrids were subjected to a curing process by visible light irradiation (λ ∼ 475 nm, blue light). The crosslinking efficiency of the neat resins and the formed nanohybrid was evaluated using shrinkage strain-time curves and equilibrium swelling method. The suggested nanohybrid is not only biocompatible (96 % in the MTT assay), and hydrophilic (with a water contact angle of 61°), but also exhibits an easy, fast and robust curing process with great potential for coating and sealing technologies for medical devices.

Metastatic clear cell sarcoma of the pancreas: A rare case report

BACKGROUND

Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is a rare soft-tissue sarcoma. The most common metastatic sites for CCS are the lungs, bones and brain. CCS is highly invasive and mainly metastasizes to the lung, followed by the bone and brain; however, pancreatic metastasis is relatively rare.

CASE SUMMARY

We report on a rare case of CCS with pancreatic metastasis in a 47-year-old man. The patient had a relevant medical history 3 years ago, with abdominal pain as the main clinical manifestation. No abnormalities were observed on physical examination and the tumor was found on abdominal computed tomography. Based on the medical history and postoperative pathology, the patient was diagnosed with CCS with pancreatic metastasis. The patient was successfully treated with surgical interventions, including distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy.

CONCLUSION

This report summarizes the available treatment modalities for CCS and the importance of regular postoperative follow-up for patients with CCS.

Association Between Pretreatment Blood 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Level and Survival Outcomes in Patients With Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer: An Updated Meta-Analysis

Studies on the prognostic value of the blood 25-hydroxyvitamin D level have yielded controversial results in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. This updated meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between pretreatment 25-hydroxyvitamin D level with survival outcomes among patients with clinically localized PCa. PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched to identify studies evaluating the association of pretreatment 25-hydroxyvitamin D level with PCSM and all-cause mortality among clinically localized PCa patients. Ten cohort studies with 10,394 patients were identified. The meta-analysis revealed that PCa patients with the lowest 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels had an increased risk of PCSM (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.52; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-1.83; p < 0.001) and all-cause mortality (adjusted HR 1.31; 95% CI 1.00-1.90; p = 0.047) compared to those with higher reference 25-hydroxyvitamin D level. Subgroup analyses based on different sample sizes, follow-up duration, and adjusted times of blood draw also exhibited a significant association of vitamin D deficiency with the risk of PCSM. Lower pretreatment level of 25-hydroxyvitamin D may be an independent predictor of reduced survival in patients with clinically localized PCa. Measuring the pretreatment blood 25-hydroxyvitamin D level can provide valuable information for risk stratification of survival outcomes in these patients.

Pretreatment prostate-specific antigen density as a predictor of biochemical recurrence in patients with prostate cancer: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

A consensus has not been reached on the value of prostate-specific antigen density (PSAD) as a predictor of biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between PSAD and biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer after primary treatment.

METHODS

Two authors systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases (up to August September 10, 2023) to identify studies that assessed the value of pretreatment PSAD in predicting biochemical recurrence after primary treatment (radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy) of prostate cancer. A random effect model was used to pool adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for biochemical recurrence.

RESULTS

Nine studies with 4963 patients were eligible for the meta-analysis. The reported prevalence of biochemical recurrence ranged from 4 to 55.1%. For patients with higher PSAD compared to those with low PSAD, the pooled HR of biochemical recurrence was 1.59 (95% CI 1.21-2.10). Subgroup analysis showed that the pooled HR of biochemical recurrence was 1.80 (95% CI 1.34-2.42) for patients who received radical prostatectomy, and 0.98 (95% CI 0.66-1.45) for patients who received radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated pretreatment PSAD may be an independent predictor for biochemical recurrence of prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy. Determining PSAD could potentially improve the prediction of biochemical recurrence in patients with prostate cancer.

Light, Heat, and Force-Responsive Polyolefins

Stimuli-responsive polymers have found applications as shape-memory materials, optical switches, and sensors, but the installation of these responsive properties in non-polar and inert polyolefins is challenging. In this contribution, a series of spiropyran (SP)-based comonomers are synthesized and copolymerized with ethylene or ethylene/cyclic monomers. In addition to great mechanical and surface properties, these functionalized polyolefins responded to light, heat, and force, which induced changes in the polymer structure to transmit color or mechanical signals. These interesting responsive properties are also installed in a series of commercial polyolefin materials through reactive extrusion, making the scalable production of these materials possible.

Association between Charlson comorbidity index and survival outcomes in patients with prostate cancer: A meta-analysis

Objective

This meta-analysis aimed to assess the influence of comorbidity, as assessed by the Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), on survival outcomes in patients with prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases to identify studies that examined the association between CCI-defined comorbidity and survival outcomes in PCa patients. We employed a random effect model to merge adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) for survival outcomes.

Results

Sixteen studies reporting on 17 articles, which collectively included 457,256 patients. For the presence (CCI score ≥1) versus absence (CCI score of 0) of comorbidity, the pooled HR was 1.59 (95 % CI 1.43-1.77) for all-cause mortality, 0.98 (95 % CI 0.90-1.08) for PCa-specific mortality, and 1.88 (95 % CI 1.61-2.21) for other-cause mortality. When compared to a CCI score of 0, the pooled HR of all-cause mortality was 1.30 (95 % CI 1.18-1.44) for a CCI score of 1, 1.65 (95 % CI 1.37-2.00) for a CCI score ≥2, and 1.75 (95 % CI 1.57-1.95) for a CCI score ≥3. Additionally, the pooled HR of other cause mortality was 1.53 (95 % CI 1.41-1.67) for a CCI score of 1, 1.93 (95 % CI 1.74-2.75) for a CCI score ≥2, and 3.95 (95 % CI 2.13-7.34) for a CCI score ≥3.

Conclusions

Increased comorbidity, as assessed by the CCI, significantly predicts all-cause and other-cause mortality in patients with PCa, but not PCa-specific mortality. The risk of all-cause and other-cause mortality increases with the burden of comorbidity.

Integrated analysis of single-cell RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq unravels the molecular feature of M2 macrophages of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

The connection between head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) and M2 tumour-associated macrophages is not yet fully understood. We gathered gene expression profiles and clinical data from HNSC patients in the TCGA database. Using Consensus Clustering, we categorized these patients into M2 macrophage-related clusters. We developed a M2 macrophage-related signature (MRS) through statistical analyses. Additionally, we assessed gene expression in HNSC cells using single-cell sequencing data (GSE139324). We identified three distinct M2 macrophage-related clusters in HNSC, each with different prognostic outcomes and immune characteristics. Patients with different MRS profiles exhibited variations in immune infiltration, genetic mutations and prognosis. FCGR2A may play a role in creating an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment and could potentially serve as a therapeutic target for HNSC. Our study demonstrated that M2 macrophage-related genes significantly impact the development and progression of HNSC. The M2 macrophage-related model offered a more comprehensive assessment of HNSC patient prognosis, genetic mutations and immune features. FCGR2A was implicated in immunosuppressive microenvironments and may hold promise for the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for HNSC.

Bright and Stable Red Perovskite LEDs under High Current Densities

Perovskite LEDs (PeLEDs) have emerged as a next-generation light-emitting technology. Recent breakthroughs were made in achieving highly stable near-infrared and green PeLEDs. However, the operational lifetimes (T50) of visible PeLEDs under high current densities (>10 mA cm-2) remain unsatisfactory (normally <100 h), limiting the possibilities in solid-state lighting and AR/VR applications. This problem becomes more pronounced for mixed-halide (e.g., red and blue) perovskite emitters in which critical challenges such as halide segregation and spectral instability are present. Here, we demonstrate bright and stable red PeLEDs based on mixed-halide perovskites, showing measured T50 lifetimes of up to ∼357 h at currents of ≥25 mA cm-2, a record for the operational stability of visible PeLEDs under high current densities. The devices produce intense and stable emission with a maximum luminance of 28,870 cd m-2 (radiance: 1584 W sr-1 m-2), which is record-high for red PeLEDs. Key to this demonstration is the introduction of sulfonamide, a dipolar molecular stabilizer that effectively interacts with the ionic species in the perovskite emitters. It suppresses halide segregation and migration into the charge-transport layers, resulting in enhanced stability and brightness of the mixed-halide PeLEDs. These results represent a substantial step toward bright and stable PeLEDs for emerging applications.

Suppression of wavelength-dependent polarization fading using hybrid-polarization scheme in OFDR

What we believe to be a new hybrid-polarization diversity scheme which can eliminate the polarization state variation caused by wavelength tuning of laser in optical frequency domain reflectometry is proposed in the paper. In the scheme, a 45° polarizer is used to maintain the polarization of signals. It decreases the polarization angle fluctuation to 2.81° and realizes a -145 dB test sensitivity with a 32 dB Rayleigh scattering signal-to-noise ratio in a 10 m fiber single test. The polarization fading suppression is achieved for tests with a large wavelength tuning range from 1480 nm to 1640 nm. Meanwhile, a 6 µm spatial resolution is also achieved. The proposed scheme can be applied to the structure measurement of high-precision optical fiber devices with high spatial resolution and sensitivity.

The expression of UNC5D is abnormal in the early stage of colorectal tumors associated with its proliferation and migration

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal adenomas are an important precancerous lesion of colorectal adenoma with a high incidence. This study aims to explore new prognostic targets for colorectal adenomas through bioinformatics techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, data from 29 colonic adenomas and 38 normal colonic mucosa in GSE37364 were analyzed to screen for differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Then, batch survival analysis, construction of risk model, mutation analysis, Cox regression analysis and expression analysis were performed on DEGs to determine the hub genes of this study. Finally, immune correlation analysis and cell experiments were carried out on the hub gene to explore its potential mechanism.

RESULTS

In our study, a total of 431 up-regulated and 809 down-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified. Among these, Unc-5 Netrin Receptor D (UNC5D) emerged as a pivotal gene associated with colorectal adenoma. Notably, UNC5D expression levels were found to be significantly higher in normal tissues compared to colorectal adenoma tissues. Furthermore, our analysis demonstrated that UNC5D showed promising diagnostic potential for patients with colon adenocarcinoma. In vitro experiments revealed that the overexpression of UNC5D had a profound impact on the behavior of colorectal tumor cells. Specifically, it led to a substantial reduction in the proliferation, motility, and invasion of these tumor cells. Additionally, UNC5D was shown to exert control over STAT1/STAT3 phosphorylation, which in turn regulated the expression of PD-L1 in response to interferon (IFN) stimulation. These findings highlight the significant role of UNC5D in modulating immune responses and the development of colorectal adenoma. UNC5D emerges as a potential diagnostic biomarker and an attractive immunotherapeutic target in the context of colorectal malignancies. These results call for further exploration of UNC5D-based strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal adenoma and adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to having the potential to be used as a diagnostic biomarker and an immunotherapeutic target in colorectal malignancies, UNC5D is necessary for the growth of colorectal adenomas. Additionally, UNC5D controlled STAT1/STAT3 phosphorylation to suppress the growth of colorectal cancers by regulating IFN-induced PD-L1 expression.

Inhibitory effects of the nanoscale lysate derived from xenogenic dental pulp stem cells in lung cancer models

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is a highly prevalent malignancy and has the highest mortality rate among all tumors due to lymph node metastasis. Bone marrow and umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have demonstrated tumor-suppressive effects on lung cancer. This study investigated the effects of DPSC lysate on proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of cancer cells were studied in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

The proliferation, apoptosis, and migration/metastasis were evaluated by cell counting kit-8 assay, Annexin-V and propidium iodide staining, and the transwell assay, respectively. The expression levels of apoptosis-, cell cycle-, migration-, and adhesion-related mRNA and proteins were measured by qRT-PCR and western blot. The level and mRNA expression of tumor markers carcino embryonic antigen (CEA), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) were measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and qRT-PCR. Finally, a tumor-bearing mouse model was constructed to observe the tumor-suppressive effect of DPSC lysate after intraperitoneal injection.

RESULTS

DPSC lysate decreased the viability of A549 cells and induced apoptosis in lung cancer cells. Western blot confirmed that levels of Caspase-3, Bax, and Bad were increased, and Bcl-2 protein levels were decreased in A549 cells treated with DPSC lysate. In addition, DPSC lysate inhibited the migration and invasion of A549 cells; downregulated key genes of the cell cycle, migration, and adhesion; and significantly suppressed tumor markers. Xenograft results showed that DPSC lysate inhibited tumor growth and reduced tumor weight.

CONCLUSIONS

DPSC lysate inhibited proliferation, invasion, and metastasis; promoted apoptosis in lung cancer cells; and suppressed tumor growth- potentially providing a cell-based alternative therapy for lung cancer treatment.

Circ-ILF2 in oral squamous cell carcinoma promotes cisplatin resistance and induces M2 polarization of macrophages

Cisplatin (CDDP) chemoresistance is one of the predominant factors in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) treatment failure. Uncovering the mechanisms underlying CDDP resistance is of great importance in OSCC therapy. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a newly discovered class of noncoding RNAs, which are reported to participate in the progression of various diseases, including cancer. However, the function of circRNAs in CDDP resistance in OSCC remains unclear. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR was used to search for different circRNAs between OSCC cell lines and CDDP-resistant cell lines. The results showed that circ-ILF2 expression was higher in CDDP-resistant OSCC cell lines. The stability of circ-ILF2 was also confirmed using RNase R and actinomycin D assays. Functional experiments, including cytotoxicity, apoptosis and growth rate assays, showed that upregulation of circ-ILF2 contributes to CDDP resistance. Luciferase reporter-gene, RNA pull-down and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) assays showed that circ-ILF2 functions as a microRNA sponge for miR-1252. Luciferase reporter assays, RNA pull-down, RT-qPCR and Western blotting showed that miR-1252 directly targeted and regulated the expression of KLF8. Circ-ILF2 plays an important role in CDDP resistance in OSCC. Circ-ILF2 exerts its function through the miR-1252/KLF8 pathway. In addition, tumour-associated macrophages (TAM) play important roles in cancer progressions, our results showed that circ-ILF2 in OSCC cells induced the M2 polarization of macrophages which provided new thoughts on immunotherapy. Our results suggest that circ-ILF2 may represent a potential therapeutic target in CDDP-resistant OSCC.

Traditional Banxia Xiexin decoction inhibits invasion, metastasis, and epithelial mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer by reducing lncRNA TUC338 expression

Background

Banxia Xiexin decoction (BXD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula clinically used to treat chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, gastric cancer, and many other gastrointestinal diseases. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play an important role in maintaining the malignant phenotype of tumors. However, no relevant studies have shown whether Banxia Xiexin decoction regulates and controls lncRNA TUC338, and the effect of TUC338 on the regulation of gastric cancer invasion and metastasis remains unclear.

Purpose

To investigate the ability of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) Banxia Xiexin decoction (BXD) to inhibit the migration and invasion of human gastric cancer AGS cells by regulating the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) TUC338.

Methods

UHPLC‒MS/MS was used to analyze the chemical components of BXD. MTT was performed to determine the effects of BXD on the proliferation of AGS cells. qRT‒PCR was used to determine the expression of lncRNA TUC338 in gastric cancer tissues, paracarcinoma tissues, AGS human gastric cancer cells and GES-1 normal gastric mucosa cells and to evaluate the effects of BXD on the expression of lncRNA TUC338 in AGS cells. Lentiviral transfection was used to establish human gastric cancer AGS cells with knocked down lncRNA TUC338 expression. The effects of lncRNA TUC338 knockdown on the migration and invasion of AGS cells were observed by a scratch assay and Transwell migration assay, respectively. Western blotting was performed to analyze the effects of lncRNA TUC338 knockdown on epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in AGS cells. We performed quality control on three batches of BXD. We used UHPLC‒MS/MS to control the quality of three random batches of BXD used throughout the study.

Results

Ninety-five chemical components were identified from the water extract of BXD, some of which have anticancer effects. The expression of TUC.338 in gastric cancer tissues was higher than that in para-carcinoma tissues. BXD inhibited the invasion and migration of gastric cancer cells by inhibiting the expression of lncRNA TUC338, which reduced EMT. After knockdown of lncRNA TUC338, the migration and invasion of AGS cells were reduced; the expression of the EMT-related protein E-cadherin was increased, and the expression of N-cadherin and vimentin was reduced.

Conclusions

The present results suggest that BXD has potential as an effective treatment for gastric cancer through the inhibition of lncRNA TUC338 expression.

Efficacy and safety of postoperative single-dose anticoagulant treatment in preventing venous thromboembolism after revision hip arthroplasty: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study is to determine the efficacy and safety of postoperative single-dose anticoagulant treatment in preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) after revision THA, in comparison with a multiple-dose chemoprophylaxis protocol.

METHODS

We retrospectively compared 295 patients undergoing revision THA who received multiple-dose chemoprophylaxis protocol (40 mg low-molecular-weight heparin once and oral rivaroxaban for 10 days) or single-dose chemoprophylaxis protocol (40 mg low-molecular-weight heparin once) for VTE. The patients in both groups performed active lower limb exercises. Each group was further stratified into subgroups based on the aetiology of revision. The incidence of VTE, wound complications within three months, hidden blood loss (HBL), transfusion rate, and surgical drainage duration were recorded.

RESULTS

The incidence rates of VTE (P = 0.870) did not differ between the two prophylaxis protocols. However, significant differences were observed in wound complications within three months (P = 0.002), HBL (P = 0.015), transfusion rate (P = 0.028). Surgical drainage duration was also shorter in the single-dose chemoprophylaxis group (P = 0.0023). In the subgroup analysis, the use of single-dose chemoprophylaxis protocol cannot significantly reduce HBL and transfusion rate after septic revision THA. The use of multiple-dose chemoprophylaxis protocol (OR = 2.89, P = 0.002) and high BMI (OR = 1.09, P = 0.037) were independent risk factors of wound complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-dose chemoprophylaxis protocol effectively and safely prevented VTE after revision THA compared with multiple-dose chemoprophylaxis protocol. The effect in reducing HBL and postoperative transfusion rate was limited in septic revision.

Carbon emission reduction effect of innovative city pilot policies in China: based on the staggered difference-in-difference model

Environmental economics theory suggests that the technological effects of increased innovation capacity can drive stable economic growth and act as a major means to mitigate regional environmental pollution levels. Therefore, science and technology innovation is the key to achieving low-carbon and green development. This study examined the influence of China's Pilot Policy for Innovative Cities on greenhouse gas emissions and its operational mechanism. By employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches, we successfully examined the impact of the policy on the nation's carbon emissions peaks. The findings indicated that adopting an urban pilot policy can effectively decelerate the increase of carbon emissions in cities. Additionally, the policy had a more pronounced impact on emission reduction in major urban areas and provinces. A mechanism test revealed that the policy could help reduce urban carbon emissions by implementing various technological innovations and spatial intensification. The results of this research offer significant theoretical support for adopting urban pilot policies and encourage the advancement of eco-friendly growth in Chinese urban areas.

The Potential Mechanism of Curcumin in Treating Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Based on Integrated Bioinformatic Analysis

Aims

This study explores the effects of curcumin as a therapeutic agent against oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

We acquired the targets of curcumin from three digital databases, including the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database, Search Tool for Interactions of Chemicals, and SwissTargetPrediction. Then, we identified the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the weighted gene coexpression network analysis-based key modules using the expression profiles of GSE23558 to acquire the OSCC-related genes. Additionally, the GeneCards and Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man databases were also used to identify the OSCC-related genes. Finally, curcumin-OSCC interaction genes were obtained by overlapping curcumin targets and OSCC-related genes. The enrichment analysis was performed by the ClusterProfiler algorithm and Metascape, respectively. Then, a protein-protein interaction network was created, and the maximal clique centrality algorithm was used to identify the top 10 hub genes. Besides, we examined the expression levels of hub genes in OSCC using The Cancer Genome Atlas database.

Results

927 DEGs were identified, including 308 upregulated ones and 619 downregulated ones. The cluster one-step network construction function of the WGCNA algorithm recognized a soft-thresholding power of 6, and 9083 genes were acquired. 2591 OSCC-related genes were obtained by overlapping the GSE23558-identified genes and the OSCC-related genes from disease target bases. Finally, we identified 70 candidate drug-disease interaction genes by overlapping the disease-related genes with the curcumin target. The enrichment analysis suggested that response to oxidative stress, epithelial cell proliferation, and AGE/RAGE pathway might involve in the effect of curcumin on OSCC. The topologic study identified the ten hub genes, including VEGFA, AKT1, TNF, HIF1A, EGFR, JUN, STAT3, MMP9, EGF, and MAPK3. A significant difference was observed in VEGFA, AKT1, TNF, HIF1A, EGFR, MMP9, EGF, and MAPK3 expression levels between head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and the normal controls. However, no significant difference was observed in JUN (P = 0.14) and STAT3 (P = 0.054).

Conclusion

This study provided an overview and basis for the potential mechanism of curcumin against OSCC. The following experiments should be performed to further understand the effectiveness and safety of curcumin in treating OSCC.

Identifying Gene-Treatment Interactions and Targetable Radiation Vulnerabilities in Glioblastoma through Coupling of In Vivo CRISPR Perturbation and Single Cell Transcriptomics

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an incurable brain tumor comprised of dynamic malignant cell states and microenvironment components that underlie treatment resistance. Here we use genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 functional genomics to define biological drivers and therapeutic vulnerabilities across human and mouse GBM models. To interrogate these mechanisms in the context of the tumor microenvironment and in vivo physiology, we established in vivo Perturb-seq intracranially, a technique coupling functional genomics with single cell transcriptomics, where each cell is an individual experiment.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Orthotopic intracranial tumor models were established using human (GBM6, GBM43) or mouse (GL261, SB28) GBM cells stably expressing CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) machinery. Perturb-seq target selection for phenotyping of gene-treatment interactions was performed using genome-wide CRISPRi screens ± radiotherapy in cell cultures. Dual sgRNA lentivirus libraries were transduced either ex vivo prior to intracranial GBM cell transplantation or in vivo using intratumor convection enhanced delivery (CED). Transcriptional phenotyping was performed using single-cell RNA-seq with CRISPR direct capture following focal brain radiotherapy (2 Gy x 5) or mock treatment. GBM cell states were validated using single-nucleus RNA-seq data from 86 primary-recurrent patient-matched GBMs. Mechanistic and functional validation was performed using small molecule inhibitors, immunohistochemistry, clonogenic assays, and in vivo survival experiments.

RESULTS

In vivo Perturb-seq ± radiotherapy of 48 genes underlying GBM radiotherapy responses, which were enriched for DNA damage response and metabolic pathways, was performed in > 425,000 single cells. Radiotherapy induced 16 distinct GBM cell states, and genetic perturbations reprogrammed these cell states in a treatment-dependent fashion. Quantitative modeling of gene/radiotherapy interactions using high dimensional manifolds revealed in vivo-specific genetic dependencies. We revealed a critical role for Prkdc, the catalytic subunit of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), as a radiotherapy sensitizer through regulation of cell intrinsic growth and oxidative stress pathways, and cell extrinsic interferon and signaling pathways that altered cell-cell interactions in vivo. These pathways were also disrupted in single-nucleus RNA-seq analysis of post-radiotherapy human GBM tumors. Inhibition of Prkdc using a Food and Drug Administration approved small molecule sensitized GBM cells to radiotherapy and extended survival in mice harboring human intracranial xenografts.

CONCLUSION

We establish in vivo Perturb-seq in orthotopic GBM models as a platform for simultaneous functional genomic discovery and characterization of therapeutic targets, revealing an underappreciated role for Prkdc in GBM tumors in vivo that is targetable using small molecules. These tools are adaptable for a wide range of disease models and treatment modalities.

An intelligent adverse delivery outcomes prediction model based on the fusion of multiple obstetric clinical data

Adverse delivery outcomes is a major re-productive health problem that affects the physical and mental health of pregnant women. Obviously, obstetric clinical data has periodically time series characteristics. This paper proposed a three stage adverse delivery outcomes prediction model via the fusion of multiple time series clinical data. The first stage is data aggregation, in which the data set is collected from the obstetric clinical data and divided based on time series features. In the second stage, a multi-channel gated cycle unit is used to solve the calculation error caused by irregular sampling of time series data. The hidden layer feature vector is connected with the fully connected layer, reshaped into a new one-dimensional feature, and fused with the non-time series data into a new data set. The third stage is the prediction stage of adverse delivery outcomes. By connecting the multi-channel gated cycle unit with the extreme gradient lift, the data transmitted in the corresponding channel is used in the feature extraction stage, in which the weighted entropy-based feature extraction is adopted. With the help of the extracted features, a hybrid artificial neural network architecture (MGRU-XGB) was developed to predict adverse delivery outcomes. The experimental results showed that the hybrid model had the best prediction performance for adverse delivery outcomes compared with other single models in terms of sensitivity, specificity, AUC and other evaluation indexes.

SP2-induced circPUM1 modulates chemoresistance and nature killer cell toxicity in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a type of tumour found in the cavity that is characterized by differentiation and metastasis to the lymph nodes. Although diagnosis strategy and clinical treatment have recently improved, the outcomes for OSCC patients remain unsatisfactory. This study verified the characteristics of circPUM1 in OSCC cells, subsequently generating dysregulated circPUM1 cell models, showing that circPUM1 promoted chemoresistance and natural killer (NK) cell toxicity. Furthermore, the transcription factor SP2 regulated the expression of circPUM1 in OSCC cells, circPUM1 acted as a molecular sponge for miR-770-5p. Moreover, Nucleosome Assembly Protein 1 Like 1 (NAP1L1) is a downstream target for miR-770-5p and essential for circPUM1-mediated cisplatin resistance and NK cell cytotoxicity in OSCC cells. The network composed of SP2, circPUM1, miR-770-5p and NAP1L1 in OSCC appears to be a promising avenue for the development of novel targets for diagnosing or treating OSCC.

Integrated models of blood protein and metabolite enhance the diagnostic accuracy for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

For early screening and diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), a robust model based on plasma proteomics and metabolomics is required for accurate and accessible non-invasive detection. Here we aim to combine TMT-LC-MS/MS and machine-learning algorithms to establish models with high specificity and sensitivity, and summarize a generalized model building scheme.

METHODS

TMT-LC-MS/MS was used to discover the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the plasma of NSCLC patients. Plasma proteomics-guided metabolites were selected for clinical evaluation in 110 NSCLC patients who were going to receive therapies, 108 benign pulmonary diseases (BPD) patients, and 100 healthy controls (HC). The data were randomly split into training set and test set in a ratio of 80:20. Three supervised learning algorithms were applied to the training set for models fitting. The best performance models were evaluated with the test data set.

RESULTS

Differential plasma proteomics and metabolic pathways analyses revealed that the majority of DEPs in NSCLC were enriched in the pathways of complement and coagulation cascades, cholesterol and bile acids metabolism. Moreover, 10 DEPs, 14 amino acids, 15 bile acids, as well as 6 classic tumor biomarkers in blood were quantified using clinically validated assays. Finally, we obtained a high-performance screening model using logistic regression algorithm with AUC of 0.96, sensitivity of 92%, and specificity of 89%, and a diagnostic model with AUC of 0.871, sensitivity of 86%, and specificity of 78%. In the test set, the screening model achieved accuracy of 90%, sensitivity of 91%, and specificity of 90%, and the diagnostic model achieved accuracy of 82%, sensitivity of 77%, and specificity of 86%.

CONCLUSIONS

Integrated analysis of DEPs, amino acid, and bile acid features based on plasma proteomics-guided metabolite profiling, together with classical tumor biomarkers, provided a much more accurate detection model for screening and differential diagnosis of NSCLC. In addition, this new mathematical modeling based on plasma proteomics-guided metabolite profiling will be used for evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and long-term recurrence prediction of NSCLC.

Effect of LSD1 on osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells in periodontitis

OBJECTIVE

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation of periodontal tissues. This study is expected to assess the effect of LSD1 on the osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in periodontitis.

METHODS

hPDLSCs were separated, cultivated, and identified, and then treated by LPS to induce inflammatory microenvironment and subjected to osteogenic differentiation. Subsequently, LSD1 expression was determined, and then silenced to assess its effect on hPDLSCs. Next, the binding relation between LSD1 and miR-590-3p was analyzed. miR-590-3p expression was detected and then overexpressed to evaluate its role in hPDLSCs in periodontitis. Afterward, the relation between LSD1 and OSX was analyzed. H3K4me2 level and OSX transcription were measured, and the role of H3K4me2 was determined. Additionally, the role of OSX in hPDLSCs was verified.

RESULTS

LSD1 was poorly expressed after osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs while it was rescued upon LPS induction. The osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSC in periodontitis was strengthened upon LSD1 downregulation. Besides, miR-590-3p targeted LSD1 transcription, and LSD1 inhibited OSX transcription via H3K4me2 demethylation. miR-590-3p overexpression improved osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in periodontitis. But this improvement was annulled by OSX inhibition.

CONCLUSION

miR-590-3p targeted LSD1 transcription and upregulated H3K4me2 methylation to promote OSX transcription, thereby encouraging osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs in periodontitis.

Efficient Near-Infrared Electroluminescence from Lanthanide-Doped Perovskite Quantum Cutters

Perovskite nanocrystals (PeNCs) deliver size and composition-tunable luminescence of high efficiency and color purity in the visible. However, attaining efficient electroluminescence (EL) in the near-infrared (NIR) region from PeNCs is challenging, limiting their potential applications. Here we demonstrate a highly efficient NIR light emitting diode (LED) by doping ytterbium ions into the PeNCs host (Yb3+:PeNCs), extending the EL wavelengths toward 1000 nm, which is achieved through a direct sensitization of Yb3+ ions by the PeNC host. Efficient quantum cutting processes enable high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs) of up to 126% from the Yb3+:PeNCs. Through halide-composition engineering and surface passivation strategy to improve both PLQY and charge transport balance, we demonstrate an efficient NIR LED with a peak EQE of 7.7% at a central wavelength of 990 nm, representing the most efficient perovskite-based LEDs with emission wavelengths beyond 850 nm.

Amine-Imine Nickel Catalysts with Pendant O-Donor Groups for Ethylene (Co)Polymerization

The introduction of a secondary interaction is an efficient strategy to modulate transition-metal-catalyzed ethylene (co)polymerization. In this contribution, O-donor groups were suspended on amine-imine ligands to synthesize a series of nickel complexes. By adjusting the interaction between the nickel metal center and the O-donor group on the ligands, these nickel complexes exhibited high activities for ethylene polymerization (up to 3.48 × 10⁶ g_PE·mol_Ni^-1·h^-1) with high molecular weight up to 5.59 × 10⁵ g·mol^-1 and produced good polyethylene elastomers (strain recovery (SR) = 69-81%). In addition, these nickel complexes can catalyze the copolymerization of ethylene with vinyl acetic acid, 6-chloro-1-hexene, 10-undecylenic, 10-undecenoic acid, and 10-undecylenic alcohol to prepare the functionalized polyolefins.

A co-anchoring strategy for the synthesis of polar bimodal polyethylene

Since polar groups can poison the metal centers in catalysts, the incorporation of polar comonomers usually comes at the expense of catalytic activity and polymer molecular weight. In this contribution, we demonstrate polar bimodal polyethylene as a potential solution to this trade-off. The more-polar/more-branched low-molecular-weight fraction provides polarity and processability, while the less-polar/less-branched high-molecular-weight fraction provides mechanical and melt properties. To achieve high miscibility between these two fractions, three synthetic routes are investigated: mixtures of homogeneous catalysts, separately supported heterogeneous catalysts, and a co-anchoring strategy (CAS) to heterogenize different homogeneous catalysts on one solid support. The CAS route is the only viable strategy for the synthesis of polar bimodal polyethylene with good molecular level entanglement and minimal phase separation. This produces polyolefin materials with excellent mechanical properties, surface/dyeing properties, gas barrier properties, as well as extrudability and 3D-printability.

Hepatitis C virus nonstructural protein 4B induces lipogenesis via the Hippo pathway

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes abnormal lipid metabolism in hepatocytes, which leads to hepatic steatosis and even hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV nonstructural protein 4B (NS4B) has been reported to induce lipogenesis, but the underlying mechanism is unclear. In this study, western blots were performed to investigate the effect of NS4B protein levels on key effectors of the Hippo and AKT signaling pathways. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein (Merlin) are effectors of the Hippo pathway. NS4B downregulated Merlin and phosphorylated YAP (p-YAP) protein expression while increasing the expression of the key AKT pathway proteins p-AKT and NF-κB. By observing the levels of AKT pathway proteins when Merlin was overexpressed or silenced, it was determined that Merlin mediates the AKT pathway. We suggest that HCV NS4B may mediate the AKT signaling pathway by inhibiting the Hippo pathway. Lipid droplets were observed in Huh7.5 cells overexpressing NS4B, and they increased significantly in number when Merlin was silenced. Overexpression of NS4B and Merlin silencing enhanced the expression of sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs), which have been demonstrated to be key regulatory factors controlling fatty acid synthesis. NS4B and Merlin silencing also enhanced the in vitro proliferative capacity of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In conclusion, NS4B induces lipogenesis via the effect of the Hippo-YAP pathway on the AKT signaling pathway and thereby plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of HCV-associated diseases.

More extreme duplication in FDA Adverse Event Reporting System detected by literature reference normalization and fuzzy string matching

PURPOSE

Literature reports of adverse drug events can be replicated across multiple companies, resulting in extreme duplication (defined as a majority of reports being duplicates) in the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database because they can escape legacy duplicate detection algorithms routinely deployed on that data source. Literature reference field, added to in 2014, could potentially be utilized to identify replicated reports. FAERS does not enforce adherence to the Vancouver referencing convention, thus the same article may be referenced differently leading to duplication. The objective of this analysis is to determine if variations of the same literature references observed in FAERS can be resolved with text normalization and fuzzy string matching.

METHODS

We normalized the literature references recorded in the FAERS database through the first quarter of 2021 with a rule-based algorithm so that they better conform to the Vancouver convention. Levenshtein distance was then utilized to merge sufficiently similar normalized literature references together.

RESULTS

Normalization of literature references increases the percentage that can be parsed into author, title, and journal from 61.74% to 93.93%. We observe that about 98% of pairs within groups do have a Levenshtein similarity of the title above the threshold. The extreme duplication ranged from 66% to 87% with a median of 72% of reports being duplicates and often involved addictovigilance scenarios.

CONCLUSIONS

We have shown that these normalized references can be merged via fuzzy string matching to improve enumeration of all the individual case safety reports that refer to the same article. Inclusion of the PubMed ID and adherence to the Vancouver convention could facilitate identification of duplicates in the FAERS dataset. Awareness of this phenomenon may improve disproportionality analysis, especially in areas such as addictovigilance.

Palladium-Catalyzed synthesis of oil-based functionalized polyolefin

The fabrication of functionalized polyolefin materials from renewable biomasses is of great importance for sustainable development. In this study, we achieved direct copolymerization of plant oil-based copolymer monomers with ethylene...

Retraction notice to "PINK1 deficiency in gastric cancer compromises mitophagy, promotes the Warburg effect, and facilitates M2 polarization of macrophages" [Cancer Lett. 529 (2022) 19-36]

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor-in-Chief and authors. Following the publication of the above article, the Editor was notified by a concerned reader that the authors supplied duplicated images. Specifically, that in Fig. 5 A, both FACS panels are identical and in Fig 5E, two different proteins (HK2 and PDK1) have the same western blot. After checking the data in relation with Fig. 5A and E, the authors have confirmed that the two pictures indeed have the problems of duplication. The authors reported that this problem came from the authors' unintentional behavior, which may be due to a copy and paste error in the manner of image processing. The authors sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused to our Editors and readers. Due to this duplication error, the authors and Editor have made the decision to retract this paper.

Beyond a 107 range-resolution-1 product in an OFDR based on a periodic phase noise estimation method

We present and demonstrate a method based on a periodic phase noise estimation in an optical frequency domain reflectometry (OFDR) capable of a beyond 10⁷ range-resolution^-1 product (RRP) for the first time, which corresponds to 2.5 × improvement compared with the state-of-the-art. The moving average filter is employed to suppress the amplification of noise in the derivation process. Further, with the help of a third-order Taylor expansion, this method provides a highly precise estimation of periodic phase noise, which is the main factor impacting the performance of OFDR systems with medium-to-long measurement range combined with a submillimeter spatial resolution. A spatial resolution within 535 μm over the measurement range of 8 km is obtained. The proposed method offers a promising technique for fiber network monitoring and sensing applications.

Stabilized Low-Dimensional Species for Deep-Blue Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes with EQE Approaching 3.4

Despite recent encouraging developments, achieving efficient blue perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) have been widely considered a critical challenge. The efficiency breakthrough only occurred in the sky-blue region, and the device performance of pure-blue and deep-blue PeLEDs lags far behind those of their sky-blue counterparts. To avoid the negative effects associated with dimensionality reduction and excess chloride typically needed to achieve deep-blue emission, here we demonstrate guanidine (GA⁺)-induced deep-blue (∼457 nm) perovskite emitters enabling spectrally stable PeLEDs with a record external quantum efficiency (EQE) over 3.41% through a combination of quasi-2D perovskites and halide engineering. Owing to the presence of GA⁺, even a small inclusion of chloride ions is sufficient for generating deep-blue electroluminescence (EL), in clear contrast to the previously reported deep-blue PeLEDs with significant chloride inclusion that negatively affects spectral stability. Based on the carrier dynamics analysis and theoretical calculation, GA⁺ is found to stabilize the low-dimensional species during annealing, retarding the cascade energy transfer and facilitating the deep-blue EL. Our findings open a potential third route to achieve deep-blue PeLEDs beyond the conventional methods of dimensionality reduction and excessive chloride incorporation.

Phase noise elimination in frequency sweeping interferometry based on a common-path interferometer

We propose a common-path interferometer (CPI) method to suppress the ambient and laser phase noise in frequency sweeping interferometry. The CPI realizes the multiplexing of the main and auxiliary interferometer to ensure the common-mode characteristic of the interference phase noise, which can be eliminated by signal mixing. In experiments, we obtain a dynamic range of up to 110 dB. Compared with the compensation method using a separated auxiliary interferometer, the CPI method improves the dynamic range by 10 dB and is immune to ambient noise. The proposed method enables high-precision distributed polarization measurements of optical fibers and devices.

Ultrahigh Stability of Perovskite Nanocrystals by Using Semiconducting Molecular Species for Displays

The instability of perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) to moisture, heat, and blue light severely hinders their commercial applications in quantum dot displays. Here, organic semiconducting molecules are introduced onto CsPbBr₃ NCs, and the as-obtained CsPbBr₃ NCs have a high photoluminescent quantum yield (PLQY) of 82% and extremely high stability in harsh commercial accelerated operational stability tests (such as high temperature (85 °C) and high humidity (85%)). The products can survive and maintain more than 80% of the initial PL intensity value under high temperature, high humidity, and long-term blue light irradiation for hundreds to thousands of hours. They are among the most stable perovskite NCs and even superior to those encapsulated by inert shells and commercial green-emissive CdSe@ZnS quantum dots (QDs). The mechanism of the exceptional stability has been proposed, mainly including the strong interaction and moderate photocarrier transfer between the quasi type II heterostructure formed by the molecule and CsPbBr₃. By using these stable CsPbBr₃ NCs, a QD-enhanced liquid crystal display prototype has been successfully fabricated with a wide color gamut. This work provides understandings on the functionality of ligands in perovskite fields and a promising prospect in perovskite-based display technologies.

Cationic P,O-Coordinated Nickel(II) Catalysts for Carbonylative Polymerization of Ethylene: Unexpected Productivity via Subtle Electronic Variation

Transition-metal-catalyzed copolymerization of ethylene with carbon monoxide affords polyketones materials with excellent mechanical strength, photodegradability, surface and barrier properties. Unlike the widely used and rather expensive Pd catalysts, Ni-catalyzed carbonylative polymerization is very difficult since the strong binding affinity of CO to Ni deactivates the highly electrophilic metal center easily. In this study, various cationic P,O-coordinated Ni complexes were synthesized using the electronic modulation strategy, and the catalyst with strong electron-donating substituents exhibits an excellent productivity of 10⁴  g polymer (g Ni)^-1 , which represents a rare discovery that a Ni complex could operate with such exceptional efficiency in comparison with Pd catalysts. Notably, those Ni catalysts were also efficient for terpolymerization of ethylene, propylene with CO for producing commercial polyketone materials with low melting temperatures and easy processibility.

Treatment of long-term endophthalmitis developing after intraocular lens implantation in children: a retrospective study

Background

To discussed the risk factor and the management of vitrectomy for long-term endophthalmitis developing after intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in children.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated the clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of long-term endophthalmitis developing after IOL implantation in children.

Results

Four eyes of four children were included in the study. The mean time to endophthalmitis development after IOL implantation was 3.0 ± 0.8 years. The corneal or scleral sutures may have been caused the infection. All 4 patients underwent vitrectomy and received intravitreal antibiotics with or without IOL removal. At the last follow-up, the outcomes were satisfactory; the fundus was clear, the retina remained attached, the visual acuity improved, and there were no severe complications.

Conclusions

The use of scleral sutures and the exposure of conceal sutures may induce the onset of long-term endophthalmitis after IOL implantation. Complete vitrectomy and appropriate use of antibiotics are effective in the treatment of long-term endophthalmitis developing after IOL implantation in children.

Predictive Value of Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index in Patients With Lower Extremity Peripheral Artery Disease: A Meta-Analysis

Background

Conflicting results have been reported on the value of the Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI) in predicting adverse outcomes in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the association of GNRI with adverse outcomes in patients with lower extremity PAD.

Methods

Relevant studies were comprehensively searched in PubMed and Embase databases until December 31, 2021. Eligible studies should evaluate the value of GNRI in predicting major adverse cardiovascular and leg events (MACLEs), all-cause mortality, and amputation in patients with lower extremity PAD.

Results

Eight studies reporting on 9 articles involving 5,541 patients were included. A fixed-effect model meta-analysis showed that patients with PAD with low GNRI had an increased risk of MACLEs [adjusted risk ratio (RR) 2.26; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.54–3.31] and all-cause mortality (RR 2.38; 95% CI 1.71–3.31) compared with those with high GNRI. When analysis of GNRI is by continuous data, 10 units of GNRI decrease was associated with 36% and 44% higher risk of MACLEs and all-cause mortality, respectively. However, per 10 units GNRI score decrease was not significantly associated with a higher risk of amputation (p = 0.051).

Conclusion

Low GNRI may be an independent predictor of adverse outcomes in patients with lower extremity PAD. Routine screening of nutritional status using the GNRI may provide important prognostic information in patients with PAD.

Differences in Vitreous Protein Profiles in Patients With Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy Before and After Ranibizumab Treatment

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) accounts for severe impact on vision, its mechanism is still poorly understood. To compare the differences of vitreous protein profiles in PDR patients before and after a complete anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) loading dose with ranibizumab treatment. Twelve vitreous humor (VH) samples were collected from six PDR patients before (set as pre group) and after (set as post group) intravitreal injection of ranibizumab (IVR) treatment. LC-MS/MS and bioinformatics analysis were performed to identify differentially expressed proteins. Proteins were validated with targeted proteomics using parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) in a validation set consisting of samples from the above patients. A total of 2680 vitreous proteins were identified. Differentially expressed proteins were filtrated with fold change ≥2.0 (post group/ pre group protein abundance ratio ≥2 or ≤ 0.5) and p-value <0.05. 11 proteins were up-regulated and 17 proteins were down-regulated, while consistent presence/absence expression profile group contains one elevated protein and nine reduced proteins, among which seven proteins were identified as potential biomarkers for IVR treatment through PRM assays. Bioinformatics analysis indicated the up-regulated proteins were significantly enriched in "GnRH secretion" and "Circadian rhythm" signaling pathway. This report represents the first description of combined label-free quantitative proteomics and PRM analysis of targeted proteins for discovery of different proteins before and after IVR treatment in the same patient. IVR treatment may protect against PDR by promoting SPP1 expression through "GnRH secretion" and "Circadian rhythm" signaling pathway.

AM1241-Loaded Poly(ethylene glycol)–Dithiothreitol Hydrogel Repairs Cranial Bone Defects by Promoting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and COL-1 Expression

Objective: To explore the repair effect of the prepared drug-loaded AM1241 poly(ethylene glycol)–dithiothreitol (PEG-DTT) hydrogel on cranial bone defects in SD rats.

Methods: The PEG-DTT hydrogel under borax catalysis was quickly prepared, and the characterization of the material was observed by a scanning electron microscope. The effect of AM1241 on cell activity and bone tissue differentiation was tested. The SD rat model of cranial bone defect was established, and the defect was repaired by injecting the prepared hydrogel into the defect. The defect was divided into four groups, namely, sham group, blank group, PEG-DTT group, and PEG-DTT + AM1241 group. The rats were euthanized, and whole cranial bone was taken out for micro-CT and histological observation.

Results: The prepared hydrogel is porous; it is liquid when heated to 80°C and a hydrogel when cooled to 25°C. 5–10 μM AM1241 increased osteoblast activity. A moderate amount of AM1241 can promote osteogenic differentiation. Both the PEG-DTT group and PEG-DTT + AM1241 group showed obvious new bone tissue formation, but the PEG-DTT + AM1241 group had a better effect. In addition, the new bone tissue in the PEG-DTT + AM1241 group was significantly more than that in the other groups.

Conclusion: The prepared AM1241-loaded PEG-DTT hydrogel showed a good repair effect on SD rats with cranial bone defects. It can be used as materials for cranial bone repair in SD rats with cranial bone defects, but the repair effect is weaker than that of normal bone. These results provide a theoretical and practical basis for its further clinical application.

Circular GOLPH3 RNA exerts oncogenic effects in vitro by regulating the miRNA-1299/LIF axis in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Circular RNAs, which are a novel subclass of noncoding RNAs, are reported to be involved in various biological processes. Aberrant expression of circular RNAs may promote cancer progression. The function of circular GOLPH3 RNA (circGOLPH3) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is unclear. In this study, the circGOLPH3 levels in OSCC cell lines were determined using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Gain-of-function and loss-of-function experiments were performed to evaluate the roles of circGOLPH3 in OSCC. Cell counting kit 8, migration, and invasion assays were performed to determine the functions of circGOLPH3. The mechanism of circGOLPH3 in OSCC was investigated using qRT-PCR, western blotting, luciferase activity, and RNA pull-down analyses. Furthermore, the function of circGOLPH3 in vivo was evaluated. circGOLPH3 derived from GOLPH3 was mainly localized to the cytoplasm and exhibited high stability. The expression of circGOLPH3 was upregulated in OSCC cells. circGOLPH3 promoted the growth of OSCC in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, circGOLPH3 upregulated OSCC cell migration and invasion. Mechanistically, circGOLPH3 functioned as a microRNA sponge and downregulated miR-1299 expression. miR-1299 downregulated the expression of LIF by targeting its 3’-untranslated region. Inhibition of the circGOLPH3/miR-1299/LIF axis suppressed the growth, migration, and invasion of OSCC cells. These findings indicate that the circGOLPH3/miR-1299/LIF axis promotes OSCC cell growth, migration, and invasion and that this axis is a potential therapeutic target for OSCC.

A general strategy for heterogenizing olefin polymerization catalysts and the synthesis of polyolefins and composites

The heterogenization of homogeneous metal complexes on solid supports presents an efficient strategy for bridging homogeneous catalysts with industrially-preferred heterogeneous catalysts; however, a series of drawbacks restrict their implementation in olefin polymerization, particularly for copolymerization with polar comonomers. In this contribution, we report an ionic anchoring strategy that is highly versatile, generally applicable to different systems, and enables strong catalyst-support interactions while tolerating various polar functional groups. In addition to greatly enhanced polymerization properties, the supported catalysts achieved higher comonomer incorporation than their unsupported counterparts. This strategy enabled efficient polymerization at high temperatures at large scale and great control over product morphology, and the facile synthesis of polyolefin composites. More importantly, the dispersion of different fillers in the polyolefin matrix produced great material properties even at low composite loadings. It is expected that this strategy will find applications in different catalytic systems and the synthesis of advanced engineering materials.

RETRACTED: PINK1 deficiency in gastric cancer compromises mitophagy, promotes the Warburg effect, and facilitates M2 polarization of macrophages

This article has been retracted: please see Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal (http://www.elsevier.com/locate/withdrawalpolicy). This article has been retracted at the request of the Editor-in-Chief and authors. Following the publication of the above article, the Editor was notified by a concerned reader that the authors supplied duplicated images. Specifically, that in Fig. 5A, both FACS panels are identical and in Fig. 5E, two different proteins (HK2 and PDK1) have the same western blot. After checking the data in relation with Fig. 5A and Fig. 5E, the authors have confirmed that the two pictures indeed have the problems of duplication. The authors reported that this problem came from the authors’ unintentional behavior, which may be due to a copy and paste error in the manner of image processing. The authors sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused to our Editors and readers. Due to this duplication error, the authors and Editor have made the decision to retract this paper.

Long non-coding RNA LINC00472 inhibits oral squamous cell carcinoma via miR-4311/GNG7 axis

Emerging studies indicate that long non-coding RNAs play important roles in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, the function of the majority of long non-coding RNAs is still unclear. Recently, LINC00472 has been reported to play crucial roles in multiple cancers. However, the role of LINC00472 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is still not clear. This study found that LncRNA LINC00472 was significantly down-regulated in several squamous cell carcinoma cancer tissues and OSCC cell lines. Over-expression of LINC00472 in OSCC cells inhibited OSCC progression and alleviated OSCC immune responses. Additionally, we confirmed that LINC00472 functioned as an hsa-miR-4311 sponge and regulated the expression of GNG7 (guanine nucleotide-binding protein, gamma 7). Also, we found that LINC00472 over-expression could suppress xenograft tumor growth in vivo. Our study provides evidence that LINC00472 plays an essential role in inhibiting oral squamous cell carcinoma progression and affecting immune responses by directly binding to hsa-miR-4311 to regulate the expression of GNG7 positively.