FE-Net: Feature enhancement segmentation network

Semantic segmentation is one of the directions in image research. It aims to obtain the contours of objects of interest, facilitating subsequent engineering tasks such as measurement and feature selection. However, existing segmentation methods still lack precision in class edge, particularly in multi-class mixed region. To this end, we present the Feature Enhancement Network (FE-Net), a novel approach that leverages edge label and pixel-wise weights to enhance segmentation performance in complex backgrounds. Firstly, we propose a Smart Edge Head (SE-Head) to process shallow-level information from the backbone network. It is combined with the FCN-Head and SepASPP-Head, located at deeper layers, to form a transitional structure where the loss weights gradually transition from edge labels to semantic labels and a mixed loss is also designed to support this structure. Additionally, we propose a pixel-wise weight evaluation method, a pixel-wise weight block, and a feature enhancement loss to improve training effectiveness in multi-class regions. FE-Net achieves significant performance improvements over baselines on publicly datasets Pascal VOC2012, SBD, and ATR, with best mIoU enhancements of 15.19%, 1.42% and 3.51%, respectively. Furthermore, experiments conducted on Pole&Hole match dataset from our laboratory environment demonstrate the superior effectiveness of FE-Net in segmenting defined key pixels.

Improving image quality of triple-low-protocol renal artery CT angiography with deep-learning image reconstruction: a comparative study with standard-dose single-energy and dual-energy CT with adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction

AIM

To investigate the improvement in image quality of triple-low-protocol (low radiation, low contrast medium dose, low injection speed) renal artery computed tomography (CT) angiography (RACTA) using deep-learning image reconstruction (DLIR), in comparison with standard-dose single- and dual-energy CT (DECT) using adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction-Veo (ASIR-V) algorithm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety patients for RACTA were divided into different groups: standard-dose single-energy CT (S group) using ASIR-V at 60% strength (60%ASIR-V), DECT (DE group) with 60%ASIR-V including virtual monochromatic images at 40 keV (DE40 group) and 70 keV (DE70 group), and the triple-low protocol single-energy CT (L group) with DLIR at high level (DLIR-H). The effective dose (ED), contrast medium dose, injection speed, standard deviation (SD), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of abdominal aorta (AA), and left/right renal artery (LRA, RRA), and subjective scores were compared among the different groups.

RESULTS

The L group significantly reduced ED by 37.6% and 31.2%, contrast medium dose by 33.9% and 30.5%, and injection speed by 30% and 30%, respectively, compared to the S and DE groups. The L group had the lowest SD values for all arteries compared to the other groups (p<0.001). The SNR of RRA and LRA in the L group, and the CNR of all arteries in the DE40 group had highest value compared to others (p<0.05). The L group had the best comprehensive score with good consistency (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The triple-low protocol RACTA with DLIR-H significantly reduces the ED, contrast medium doses, and injection speed, while providing good comprehensive image quality.

Coronary microvascular dysfunction: prevalence and aetiology in patients with suspected myocardial ischaemia

AIM

To evaluate the prevalence, aetiology, and corresponding morbidity of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) in patients with suspected myocardial ischaemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present study included 115 patients with suspected myocardial ischaemia who underwent stress perfusion cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. CMD was assessed visually based on the myocardial perfusion results. The CMR-derived myocardial perfusion reserve index (MPRI) and left ventricular (LV) strain parameters obtained using the post-processing software CVI42 were employed to evaluate LV myocardial perfusion and deformation. LV strain parameters included global longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain (GLS, GCS, and GRS), global systolic/diastolic longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strain rates (SLSR, SCSR, SRSR, DLSR, DCSR, and DRSR).

RESULTS

Of the 115 patients, 12 patients were excluded and 103 patients were finally included in the study. CMD was observed in 79 % (81 patients, aged 53 ± 12 years) of patients. Regarding aetiology, 91 (88 %) patients had non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), eight (8 %) had obstructive CAD, and four (4 %) had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The incidence of CMD was highest (100 %) in patients with HCM, followed by those with non-obstructive CAD (up to 79 %). There were no statistical differences between CMD and non-CMD groups in GCS, GRS, GLS, SRSR, SCSR, SLSR, DCSR, DRSR and DLSR.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of CMD was higher in patients with signs and symptoms of ischaemia. CMD occurred with non-obstructive CAD, obstructive CAD, and HCM, with the highest prevalence of CMD in HCM.

Systematic profiling of Taxol resistance and sensitivity to tubulin missence mutations at molecular and cellular levels

Taxol (paclitaxel) is the first approved microtubule-stabilizing agent (MSA) by binding stoichiometrically to tubulin, which is considered to be one of the most significant advances in first-line chemotherapy against diverse tumors. However, a large number of residue missence mutations harboring in the tubulin have been observed to cause acquired drug resistance, largely limiting the clinical application of Taxol and its analogs in chemotherapy. A systematic investigation of the intermolecular interactions between the Taxol and various tubulin mutants would help to establish a comprehensive picture of drug response to tubulin mutations in clinical treatment of cancer, and to design new MSA agents with high potency and selectivity to overcome drug resistance. In this study, we described an integration of in silico analysis and in vitro assay (iSiV) to profile Taxol against a panel of 149 clinically observed, cancer-associated missence mutations in β-tubulin at molecular and cellular levels, aiming to a systematic understanding of molecular mechanism and biological implication underlying drug resistance and sensitivity conferring from tubulin mutations. It is revealed that the Taxol-resistant mutations can be classified into three types: (I) nonbonded interaction broken due to mutation, (II) steric hindrance caused by mutation, and (III) conformational change upon mutation. In addition, we identified three new Taxol-resistant mutations (C239Y, T274I, and R320P) that can largely reduce the binding affinity of Taxol to tubulin at molecular level, in which the T274I and R320P were observed to considerably impair the antitumor activity of Taxol at cellular level. Moreover, a novel drug-susceptible mutation (M363T) was also identified, which improves Taxol affinity by 2.6-fold and decreases Taxol antitumor EC50 values from 29.4 to 18.7 μM.

The complete chloroplast genome sequence of an invasive plant, Tragopogon dubius Scopoli (asteraceae)

Tragopogon dubius Scopoli is native to Europe and western Asia and is considered an invasive plant in China. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome of T. dubius was obtained using high-throughput next-generation sequencing technology. The whole chloroplast genome was 153,017 bp long with a GC content of 38% and comprised 130 genes (86 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes). Phylogenetic analysis based on the concatenated chloroplast protein-coding sequences showed that T. dubius is most closely related to Tragopogon pratensis. This study provides valuable genetic data for further phylogenetic analysis and molecular identification of species in the genus Tragopogon.

CRISPR-Cas9-mediated chicken prmt5 gene knockout and its critical role in interferon regulation

Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5), a type II arginine methyltransferase, controls arginine dimethylation of a variety of substrates. While many papers have reported the function of mammalian PRMT5, it remains unclear how PRMT5 functions in chicken cells. In this study, we found that chicken (ch) PRMT5 is widely expressed in a variety of chicken tissues and is distributed in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Ectopic expression of chPRMT5 significantly suppresses chIFN-β activation induced by chMDA5. In addition, a prmt5 gene-deficient DF-1 cell line was constructed using CRISPR/Cas9. In comparison with the wild-type cells, the prmt5-/- DF-1 cells displays normal morphology and maintain proliferative capacity. Luciferase reporter assay and overexpression showed that prmt5-/- DF-1 cells had increased IFN-β production. With identified chicken PRMT5 and CRISPR/Cas9 knockout performed in DF-1 cells, we uncovered a functional link of chPRMT5 in suppression of IFN-β production and interferon-stimulated gene expression.

Synthesis and Properties of Bright Red-to-NIR BODIPY Dyes for Targeting Fluorescence Imaging and Near-Infrared Photothermal Conversion

An efficient synthesis of 3-pyrrolylBODIPY dyes has been developed from a rational mixture of various aromatic aldehydes and pyrrole in a straightforward condensation reaction, followed by in situ successively oxidative nucleophilic substitution using a one-pot strategy. These resultant 3-pyrrolylBODIPYs without blocking substituents not only exhibit the finely tunable photophysical properties induced by the flexible meso-aryl substituents but also serve as a valuable synthetic framework for further selective functionalization. As a proof of such potential, one 3-pyrrolylBODIPY dye (581/603 nm) through the installation of the morpholine group is applicable for lysosome-targeting imaging. Furthermore, an ethene-bridged 3,3'-dipyrrolylBODIPY dimer was constructed, which displayed a near-infrared (NIR) emission extended to 1200 nm with a large fluorescence brightness (2840 M-1 cm-1). The corresponding dimer nanoparticles (NPs) afforded a high photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE) value of 72.5%, eventually resulting in favorable photocytotoxicity (IC50 = 9.4 μM) and efficient in vitro eradication of HeLa cells under 808 nm laser irradiation, highlighting their potential application for photothermal therapy in the NIR window.

[Quantitative analysis of risk assessment indicators for re-introduction of imported malaria in China]

OBJECTIVE

To quantitatively analyze the risk indicators of re-introduction of imported malaria in China and their weighting coefficients, so as to investigate the difference in the contribution of risk indicators included in the current risk assessment framework for re-introduction of imported malaria in China to the risk assessment of re-introduction of imported malaria.

METHODS

Publications pertaining to the risk assessment framework for re-introduction of imported malaria in China that reported the risk indicators and their weighting coefficients were retrieved in PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang Data, and VIP with terms of "malaria", "re-introduction/re-transmission/re-establishment", "risk assessment/risk evaluation/risk prediction" from the inception of the database through 3 August 2023, and literature search was performed in Google Scholar to ensure the comprehensiveness of the retrieval. Basic characteristics of included studies were extracted using pre-designed information extraction forms by two investigators, and data pertaining to risk indicators of re-introduction of imported malaria were cross-checked by these two investigators. The risk indicators included in the risk assessment framework for re-introduction of imported malaria in China and their weighting coefficients were visualized with the Nightingale's rose diagrams using the software R 4.2.1, and the importance of risk indictors was evaluated with the frequency of risk indicators included in the risk assessment framework and the ranking of weighting coefficients of risk indicators. In addition, the capability of risk indicators screened by different weighting methods was compared by calculating the ratio of the maximum to the minimum of the weighting coefficients of the risk indicators screened by different weighting methods.

RESULTS

A total of 2 138 publications were retrieved, and following removal of duplications and screening, a total of 8 publications were included in the final analysis. In these 8 studies, 8 risk assessment frameworks for re-introduction of imported malaria in China and 52 risk indicators of re-introduction of imported malaria were reported, in which number of imported malaria cases (n = 8) and species of malaria vectors were more frequently included in the risk assessment frameworks (n = 8), followed by species of imported malaria parasites (n = 6) and population density of local malaria vectors (n = 6), and species of local malaria vectors (n = 6), number of imported malaria cases (n = 5) and species of imported malaria parasites had the three highest weighting coefficients (n = 4). The weighting methods included expert scoring method, combination of expert scoring method and analytic hierarchy process, and combination of expert scoring method and entropy weight method in these 8 studies, and the ratios of the maximum to the minimum of the weighting coefficients of the risk indicators screened by the expert scoring method were 1.143 to 2.241, while the ratios of the maximum to the minimum of the weighting coefficients of the risk indicators screened by combination of the expert scoring method and analytic hierarchy process were 34.970 to 162.000.

CONCLUSIONS

Number of imported malaria cases, species of imported malaria parasites, species of local malaria vectors and population density of local malaria vectors are core indicators in the current risk assessment framework for re-introduction of imported malaria in China. Combination of the expert scoring method and analytic hierarchy process is superior to the expert scoring method alone for weighting the risk indicators.

SB431542 partially inhibits high glucose-induced EMT by restoring mitochondrial homeostasis in RPE cells

BACKGROUND

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells participated in the development of retinal fibrosis. SB431542 is a small molecule inhibitor with inhibitory effects on the ALK4, ALK5 and ALK7. Our study aimed to explore the effect of SB431542 on the EMT of RPE cells and to provide new ideas for the treatment of retinal fibrosis.

METHODS

We performed fundus fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography and hematoxylin-eosin staining in vivo to observe the effect of SB431542 on choroidal neovascularization (CNV)-induced retinopathy. The proliferation, migration, cytoskeleton, adhesion, reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial morphology and membrane potential of RPE cells were observed in vitro through fluorescein diacetate staining, Cell Counting Kit-8 experiment, wound healing assay, phalloidin staining, immunofluorescence, MitoSOX, DCFH-DA, MitoTracker and JC-10 staining. Western blot, reverse transcription quantitative and immunofluorescence were used to detect the expression of EMT-related markers, pERK1/2, pGSK3β and β-catenin.

RESULTS

SB431542 significantly alleviated retinopathy in the CNV model. The proliferation, migration and adhesion in RPE cells decreased to a certain extent in SB431542 treatment. SB431542 partially normalized the structure of RPE cells. The expression levels of E-cadherin increased, while the expression levels of laminin and N-cadherin decreased with SB431542 treatment. SB431542 reduced the production of total ROS, mitochondrial SOX and recovered the mitochondrial membrane potential to a certain degree. In addition, our study showed that SB431542 downregulated the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, GSK3β and the expression of β-catenin.

CONCLUSION

SB431542 improved EMT in RPE cells by maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis via the ERK1/2 and GSK3β/β-catenin pathways. Video Abstract SB431542 inhibits EMT in RPE cells under high glucose conditions.

Genetic, haplotype and phylogenetic analysis of Ligula intestinalis by using mt-CO1 gene marker: ecological implications, climate change and eco-genetic diversity

Abstract Ligula intestinalis is a cestode parasite that affects freshwater fish in different countries of the world. The current study aims to reveal the phylogenetic, genetic and haplotype diversity of mt-CO1 gene sequences sent to the NCBI database from different countries by using in-silico analysis. The 105 mt-CO1 (371 bp) gene sequences of L. intestinalis obtained from NCBI were used for bioinformatics analyses. Sequences were subjected to phylogenetic and haplotype analysis. As a result of the haplotype analysis of L. intestinalis, 38 haplotypes were obtained from 13 different countries. Hap24 constituted 44.76% of the obtained haplotype network. Changes in nucleotides between haplotypes occurred at 1-84 different points. China and Turkey have highest fixation index (Fst) values of 0.59761, while the lowest (-0.10526) was found between Russia and Turkey. This study provides a baseline for future studies on extensive scale on the epidemiology, ecological aspects, distribution pattern, transmission dynamics and population dispersion of L. intestinalis worldwide.

The origin of bi-dimensionality in plant root traits

Plant roots show extraordinary diversity in form and function in heterogeneous environments. Mounting evidence has shown global bi-dimensionality in root traits, the root economics spectrum (RES), and an orthogonal dimension describing mycorrhizal collaboration; however, the origin of the bi-dimensionality remains unresolved. Here, we propose that bi-dimensionality arises from the cylindrical geometry of roots, allometry between root cortex and stele, and independence between root cell wall thickness and cell number. Root geometry and mycorrhizal collaboration may both underlie the bi-dimensionality. Further, we emphasize why plant roots should be cylindrical rather than flat. Finally, we highlight the need to integrate organ-, cellular-, and molecular-level processes driving the bi-dimensionality in plant roots to fully understand plant diversity and functions.

[Analysis of the prevalence of dyslipidemia and correlative factors in Tajik population in Pamir Plateau of Xinjiang]

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of dyslipidemia and the level of blood lipids among Tajik people in Pamir Plateau, Xinjiang, and explore the related factors of dyslipidemia. Methods: It is a retrospective cross-sectional study. A multi-stage cluster random sampling survey was conducted among 5 635 Tajiks over 18 years old in Tashkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Xinjiang Province from May to October 2021. Data were collected through questionnaire survey (general information, medical history, and personal history), physical examination (height, weight, waist, and blood pressure) and blood test (total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density cholesterol (HDL-C)) to analyze the dyslipidemia and its risk factors among Tajiks. Results: The age of Tajik participants was (41.9±15.0) years, including 2 726 males (48.4%). The prevalence of borderline high TC, high LDL-C and high TG levels were 17.2%, 14.7% and 8.9%, respectively. The prevalence of high TC, high LDL-C, high TG and low HDL-C were 4.1%, 4.9%, 9.4% and 32.4%, respectively, and the prevalence of dyslipidemia was 37.0%. There is a positive correlation between male,higher education level, higher body mass index (BMI) value,waist circumference, living in town, smoking and dyslipidemia. Conclusions: The low prevalence of high TC, high LDL-C, high TG and high prevalence of low HDL-C was a major characteristic of Tajik people in Pamir Plateau of Xinjiang. The lower rates of overweight and obesity may be one of the reasons for the lower prevalence of dyslipidemia among Tajik.

The impact of vascular endothelial glycocalyx on the pathogenesis and treatment of disseminated intravascular coagulation

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a complex disorder characterized by widespread activation of blood clotting mechanisms throughout the body. Understanding the role of vascular endothelial glycocalyx in the pathogenesis and treatment of DIC is crucial for advancing our knowledge in this field. The vascular endothelial glycocalyx is a gel-like layer that coats the inner surface of blood vessels. It plays a significant role in maintaining vascular integrity, regulating fluid balance, and preventing excessive clotting. In the pathogenesis of DIC, the disruption of the vascular endothelial glycocalyx is a key factor. Pathological conditions trigger the activation of enzymes, including heparanase, hyaluronase, and matrix metalloproteinase. This activation leads to glycocalyx degradation, subsequently exposing endothelial cells to procoagulant stimuli. Additionally, the ANGPTs/Tie-2 signaling pathway plays a role in the imbalance between the synthesis and degradation of VEG, exacerbating endothelial dysfunction and DIC. Understanding the mechanisms behind glycocalyx degradation and its impact on DIC can provide valuable insights for the development of targeted therapies. Preservation of the glycocalyx integrity may help prevent the initiation and propagation of DIC. Strategies such as administration of exogenous glycocalyx components, anticoagulant agents, or Tie-2 antibody agents have shown promising results in experimental models. In conclusion, the vascular endothelial glycocalyx plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and treatment of DIC. Further research in this field is warranted to unravel the complex interactions between the glycocalyx and DIC, ultimately leading to the development of novel therapies.

MST4 kinase regulates immune thrombocytopenia by phosphorylating STAT1-mediated M1 polarization of macrophages

Primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune hemorrhagic disorder in which macrophages play a critical role. Mammalian sterile-20-like kinase 4 (MST4), a member of the germinal-center kinase STE20 family, has been demonstrated to be a regulator of inflammation. Whether MST4 participates in the macrophage-dependent inflammation of ITP remains elusive. The expression and function of MST4 in macrophages of ITP patients and THP-1 cells, and of a macrophage-specific Mst4-/- (Mst4ΔM/ΔM) ITP mouse model were determined. Macrophage phagocytic assays, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis, immunofluorescence analysis, coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP), mass spectrometry (MS), bioinformatics analysis, and phosphoproteomics analysis were performed to reveal the underlying mechanisms. The expression levels of the MST4 gene were elevated in the expanded M1-like macrophages of ITP patients, and this elevated expression of MST4 was restored to basal levels in patients with remission after high-dose dexamethasone treatment. The expression of the MST4 gene was significantly elevated in THP-1-derived M1 macrophages. Silencing of MST4 decreased the expression of M1 macrophage markers and cytokines, and impaired phagocytosis, which could be increased by overexpression of MST4. In a passive ITP mouse model, macrophage-specific depletion of Mst4 reduced the numbers of M1 macrophages in the spleen and peritoneal lavage fluid, attenuated the expression of M1 cytokines, and promoted the predominance of FcγRIIb in splenic macrophages, which resulted in amelioration of thrombocytopenia. Downregulation of MST4 directly inhibited STAT1 phosphorylation, which is essential for M1 polarization of macrophages. Our study elucidates a critical role for MST4 kinase in the pathology of ITP and identifies MST4 kinase as a potential therapeutic target for refractory ITP.

Anticentromere antibody positive patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome have distinctive clinical and immunological characteristics

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the clinical manifestations, immunological characteristics, circulating lymphocyte subsets and risk factors of anticentromere antibody (ACA) positive patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS).

METHODS

Data of 333 patients with newly diagnosed pSS were collected and analysed retrospectively. The demographic features, glandular dysfunction, extraglandular manifestations, laboratory data, peripheral blood lymphocyte profiles and serum cytokines were compared between ACA-positive and ACA-negative pSS patients. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between ACA and pSS characteristics.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ACA among pSS patients was 13.5%. ACA-positive pSS patients were older at diagnosis and had longer disease duration. Xerostomia, xerophthalmia, parotid enlargement, Raynaud's phenomenon (RP), lung and digestive system involvement were more common in ACA-positive group, whereas haematological involvement such as leukopenia was more common in the ACA-negative group. Less frequency of rheumatoid factor, hypergammaglobulinaemia, anti-SSA and anti-SSB positivity, as well as higher positivity rate of ANA were observed in ACA-positive pSS patients, who exhibited a lower ESSDAI. In addition, decreased B cells and elevated NK cells were found in ACA-positive patients. Multivariate analysis identified that disease duration longer than 5 years, parotid enlargement, normal immunoglobulin and the absence of anti-SSA antibody were risk factors of ACA-positive pSS.

CONCLUSIONS

ACA positive pSS patients have distinctive clinical manifestations and less severe immunological features, present a lower disease activity and lower activation of the humoral immune system. Physicians should pay attention to RP, lung and liver involvement in this subset of pSS.

Adjuvant effect of allogeneic blood in vaccines against edwardsiellosis in ginbuna crucian carp Carassius auratus langsdorfii

Edwardsiella tarda (E. tarda), an intracellular pathogen, has caused severe economic losses in aquaculture. Effective vaccine development for E. tarda prevention is urgently needed. A previous study indicates that cell-mediated immunity (CMI) might play an important role in E. tarda infection. We believe that the involvement of allograft rejection and CMI has now been well documented in mammals and some fishes. However, there is still little research on the application of blood allograft rejection in vaccine development. In the current study, we investigate the immune response and vaccine effect in fish vaccinated with allogeneic blood + formalin-killed cells vaccine (FKC), allogeneic blood + phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), PBS + FKC and PBS + PBS. In the challenge test, the relative percentage survival (RPS) of the allogeneic + FKC, the allogeneic blood + PBS and the PBS + FKC group was 61.46, 35.41, and 30.63 % respectively. The up-regulated expression of Th1-related genes IFN-γ 1, IFN-γ 1rel2, IL-12p35 and T-bet suggests the protection is via CMI induction. Only in the allogeneic + FKC group, gene expression of IFN-γ 1, IL-12p35 and T-bet is significantly higher, indicating synergy between the two substances. Furthermore, among the fish injected with the allogeneic blood cells, syngeneic blood cells and PBS group, only in the fish of the allogenic blood cells injection group, did expression of IFN-γ 1, IFN-γ 2 and IFN-γ rel2 gene expression significantly increased. The results indicate that the rejection was induced by allogeneic components. Thus, our findings might provide essential information and insights into vaccine development in aquaculture.

Chimeric antigen receptor T cells to target CD79b in B-cell lymphomas

BACKGROUND

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting CD19 mediate potent and durable effects in B-cell malignancies. However, antigen loss or downregulation is a frequent cause of resistance. Here, we report development of a novel CAR T-cell therapy product to target CD79b, a pan B-cell antigen, widely expressed in most B-cell lymphomas.

METHODS

We generated a novel anti-CD79b monoclonal antibody by hybridoma method. The specificity of the antibody was determined by testing against isogenic cell lines with human CD79b knock-in or knock-out. A single-chain variable fragment derived from the monoclonal antibody was used to make a panel of CD79b-targeting CAR molecules containing various hinge, transmembrane, and co-stimulatory domains. These were lentivirally transduced into primary T cells and tested for antitumor activity in in vitro and in vivo B-cell lymphoma models.

RESULTS

We found that the novel anti-CD79b monoclonal antibody was highly specific and bound only to human CD79b and no other cell surface protein. In testing the various CD79b-targeting CAR molecules, superior antitumor efficacy in vitro and in vivo was found for a CAR consisting CD8α hinge and transmembrane domains, an OX40 co-stimulatory domain, and a CD3ζ signaling domain. This CD79b CAR specifically recognized human CD79b-expressing lymphoma cell lines but not CD79b knock-out cell lines. CD79b CAR T cells, generated from T cells from either healthy donors or patients with lymphoma, proliferated, produced cytokines, degranulated, and exhibited robust cytotoxic activity in vitro against CD19+ and CD19- lymphoma cell lines and patient-derived lymphoma tumors relapsing after prior CD19 CAR T-cell therapy. Furthermore, CD79b CAR T cells were highly efficient at eradicating pre-established lymphoma tumors in vivo in three aggressive lymphoma xenograft models, including two cell line-derived xenografts and one patient-derived xenograft. Notably, these CAR T cells did not demonstrate any significant tonic signaling activity or markers of exhaustion.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that this novel CD79b CAR T-cell therapy product has robust antitumor activity against B-cell lymphomas. These results supported initiation of a phase 1 clinical trial to evaluate this product in patients with relapsed or refractory B-cell lymphomas.

Genetics of longitudinal kidney function in children and adults with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVES

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified loci associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Few LN risk loci have been identified to date. We tested the association of SLE and eGFR polygenic risk scores (PRS) with repeated eGFR measures from children and adults with SLE.

METHODS

Patients from two tertiary care lupus clinics that met ≥4 ACR and/or SLICC criteria for SLE were genotyped on the Illumina MEGA or Omni1-Quad arrays. PRSs were calculated for SLE and eGFR, using published weighted GWA-significant alleles. eGFR was calculated using the CKD-EPI and Schwartz equations. We tested the effect of eGFR- and SLE-PRSs on eGFR mean and variance, adjusting for age at diagnosis, sex, ancestry, follow-up time, and clinical event flags.

RESULTS

We included 1158 SLE patients (37% biopsy-confirmed LN) with 36 733 eGFR measures over a median of 7.6 years (IQR: 3.9-15.3). LN was associated with lower within-person mean eGFR [LN: 93.8 (s.d. 26.4) vs non-LN: 101.6 (s.d. 17.7) mL/min per 1.73 m2; P < 0.0001] and higher variance [LN median: 157.0 (IQR: 89.5, 268.9) vs non-LN median: 84.9 (IQR: 46.9, 138.2) (mL/min per 1.73 m2)2; P < 0.0001]. Increasing SLE-PRSs were associated with lower mean eGFR and greater variance, while increasing eGFR-PRS was associated with increased eGFR mean and variance.

CONCLUSION

We observed significant associations between SLE and eGFR PRSs and repeated eGFR measurements, in a large cohort of children and adults with SLE. Longitudinal eGFR may serve as a powerful alternative outcome to LN categories for discovery of LN risk loci.

High Curvature PEDOT:PSS Transport Layer Toward Enhanced Perovskite Light-Emitting Diodes

The rapidly developed metal halide perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are considered as a promising candidate for next-generation display and illumination, but the unbalanced charge transport is still a hard-treat case to restrict its efficiency and operational stability. Here, a high curvature PEDOT:PSS transport layer is demonstrated via the self-assembly island-like structures by the incorporation of alkali metal salts. Benefiting from the dielectric confinement effect of the high curvature surface, the modified CsPbBr3 -based PeLEDs present a 2.1 times peak external quantum efficiency (EQE) from 6.75% to 14.23% and a 3.3 times half lifetime (T50 ) from 3.96 to 13.01 h. Besides, the PeLEDs show high luminance up to 44834 cd m-2 . Evidently, this work may provide a deep insight into the structure-activity relationship between the micro-structures at the PEDOT:PSS/perovskite interface and the performance of PeLEDs, and crack the codes for ameliorating the performance of PeLEDs via interfacial micro-structured regulation.

Multivariate analysis of milk metabolite measures shows potential for deriving new resilience phenotypes

In a context of growing interest in breeding more resilient animals, a noninvasive indicator of resilience would be very valuable. We hypothesized that the time-course of concentrations of several milk metabolites through a short-term underfeeding challenge could reflect the variation of resilience mechanisms to such a challenge. We submitted 138 one-year-old primiparous goats, selected for extreme functional longevity (i.e., productive longevity corrected for milk yield [60 low longevity line goats and 78 high longevity line goats]), to a 2-d underfeeding challenge during early lactation. We measured the concentration of 13 milk metabolites and the activity of 1 enzyme during prechallenge, challenge, and recovery periods. Functional principal component analysis summarized the trends of milk metabolite concentration over time efficiently without preliminary assumptions concerning the shapes of the curves. We first ran a supervised prediction of the longevity line of the goats based on the milk metabolite curves. The partial least square analysis could not predict the longevity line accurately. We thus decided to explore the large overall variability of milk metabolite curves with an unsupervised clustering. The large year × facility effect on the metabolite concentrations was precorrected for. This resulted in 3 clusters of goats defined by different metabolic responses to underfeeding. The cluster that showed higher β-hydroxybutyrate, cholesterol, and triacylglycerols increase during the underfeeding challenge was associated with poorer survival compared with the other 2 clusters. These results suggest that multivariate analysis of noninvasive milk measures show potential for deriving new resilience phenotypes.

Phase I dose escalation and expansion study of golidocitinib, a highly selective JAK1 inhibitor, in relapsed or refractory peripheral T-cell lymphomas

BACKGROUND

Relapsed or refractory peripheral T-cell lymphomas (r/r PTCLs) are a group of rare and aggressive diseases that lack effective therapies. Constitutive activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway is reported to be associated with PTCLs. Golidocitinib is an oral, potent JAK1 selective inhibitor evaluated in a phase I/II multinational study in patients with r/r PTCLs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with r/r PTCLs were eligible. The primary objectives were to assess safety and tolerability of golidocitinib and to define its recommended phase II dose (RP2D). The secondary objectives were to evaluate its antitumor activity and pharmacokinetics (PK).

RESULTS

A total of 51 patients were enrolled and received golidocitinib treatment at 150 or 250 mg once daily (QD). The median prior lines of therapies were 2 (range: 1-8). Golidocitinib was tolerated at both doses tested, while a higher incidence of serious adverse events and dose modifications at 250 mg were observed. The most common grade ≥3 drug-related treatment-emergent adverse events were neutropenia (27.5%) and thrombocytopenia (11.8%). An objective response rate of 39.2% and a complete response rate of 21.6% were observed. With median follow-up time of 14.7 and 15.9 months, the median duration of response (DoR) and progression-free survival were 8.0 and 3.3 months, respectively. Based on these data, 150 mg QD was defined as the RP2D. Golidocitinib demonstrated a favorable PK profile as an oral agent. Biomarker analysis suggested a potential correlation between JAK/STAT pathway aberrations and clinical activity of golidocitinib.

CONCLUSIONS

In this phase I study, golidocitinib demonstrated an acceptable safety profile and encouraging antitumor efficacy in heavily pretreated patients with r/r PTCLs. These results support the initiation of the multinational pivotal study in patients with r/r PTCLs.

The matrix protein of respiratory syncytial virus suppresses interferon signaling via RACK1 association

IMPORTANCE

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) matrix (M) protein is indispensable for virion assembly and release. It is localized to the nucleus during early infection to perturb host transcription. However, the function of RSV M protein in other cellular activities remains poorly understood. In this study, several interferon response-associated host factors, including RACK1, were identified by proteomic analysis as RSV M interactors. Knockdown of RACK1 attenuates RSV-restricted IFN signaling leading to enhanced host defense against RSV infection, unraveling a role of M protein in antagonizing IFN response via association with RACK1. Our study uncovers a previously unrecognized mechanism of immune evasion by RSV M protein and identifies RACK1 as a novel host factor recruited by RSV, highlighting RACK1 as a potential new target for RSV therapeutics development.

Development and validation of a screening method for difficult tracheal intubation based on geometric simulation and computer technology

BACKGROUND

The anatomical characteristics of difficult airways can be analysed geometrically. This study aims to develop and validate a geometry-assisted difficult airway screening method (GADAS method) for difficult tracheal intubation.

METHODS

In the GADAS method, a geometric simulated model was established based on computer graphics. According to the law of deformation of the upper airway on laryngoscopy, the expected visibility of the glottis was calculated to simulate the real visibility on laryngoscopy. Validation of the new method: Approved by the Ethics Committee of Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College. Adult patients who needed tracheal intubation under general anaesthesia for elective surgery were enrolled. The data of patients were input into the computer software to calculate the expected visibility of the glottis. The results of tracheal intubation were recorded by anaesthesiologists. The primary observation outcome was the screening performance of the expected visibility of the glottis for difficult tracheal intubation.

RESULTS

The geometric model and software of the GADAS method were successfully developed and are available for use. We successfully observed 2068 patients, of whom 56 patients had difficult intubation. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of low expected glottis visibility for predicting difficult laryngoscopy was 0.96 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.95-0.96). The sensitivity and specificity were 89.3% (95% CI: 78.1-96.0%) and 94.3% (95% CI: 93.2%-95.3), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

It is feasible to screen difficult-airway patients by applying computer techniques to simulate geometric changes in the upper airway.

Propyrisulfuron plus cyhalofop butyl as one-shot herbicides provide high weed control efficiency and net economic performance in mechanically transplanted rice

Propyrisulfuron is a novel pyrimidinylsulfonylurea herbicide with good activity for controlling annual weed in rice fields. To evaluate the economic performance of propyrisulfuron, a field study was conducted in 2021 and 2022 on a farm of the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China. Eight different herbicide treatments were employed, including CB (cyhalofop butyl), Py (propyrisulfuron), CBPy (cyhalofop butyl plus propyrisulfuron), PrBe 3, PrBe 10, and PrBe 3+PrBe 10 (pretilachlor plus bensulfuron applied at different times [at 3 (PrBe 3) and 10 (PrBe 10) d] or sequentially, respectively), 2PrBe+PeCBBz (pretilachlor plus bensulfuron [applied sequentially] followed by penoxsulam plus cyhalofop butyl plus bentazone), 2PrBe+MeCBBz (pretilachlor plus bensulfuron [applied sequentially] followed by metamifop plus cyhalofop butyl plus bentazone), along with weed-free and nontreated weedy check treatments. Herbicide treatments did not cause visual phytotoxicity to rice, and bending and leaf rolling were not observed. Only the two propyrisulfuron treatments had temporary negative effects on rice height, but rice recovered quickly. Compared with the weed-free treatment, CBPy did not affect rice tiller number or dry matter accumulation. Compared with the nontreated weedy check, herbicide treatments reduced total weed density by 29.4% to 99.1% and dry biomass by 32.2% to 98.7%. The CBPy treatment provided the best weed control, reducing weed density and biomass by 96.7% and 95.9% in 2021 and 97.4% and 95.6% in 2022, respectively. Rice grain yield was not significantly different between CBPy and the weed-free treatment in either year. Economic analysis showed that CBPy provided the highest net profit, followed by that in 2PrBe+PeCBBz and 2PrBe+MeCBBz, with the lowest net profit in the nontreated weedy check. Thus, CBPy provides good weed control and could be promoted in mechanically transplanted rice fields in China.

[Observation of liver indexes in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma treated with CAR-T-cells based on BCMA]

Objective: To observe the characteristics of the evolution of liver indexes in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) treated with CAR-T-cells based on BCMA. Methods: Retrospective analysis was performed of patients with RRMM who received an infusion of anti-BCMA CAR-T-cells and anti-BCMA combined with anti-CD19 CAR-T-cells at our center between June 1, 2019, and February 28, 2023. Clinical data were collected to observe the characteristics of changes in liver indexes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL), and direct bilirubin (DBIL) in patients, and its relationship with cytokine-release syndrome (CRS) . Results: Ninety-two patients were included in the analysis, including 41 patients (44.6%) in the group receiving a single infusion of anti-BCMA CAR-T-cells, and 51 patients (55.4%) in the group receiving an infusion of anti-BCMA combined with anti-CD19 CAR-T-cells. After infusing CAR-T-cells, 31 patients (33.7%) experienced changes in liver indexes at or above grade 2, which included 20 patients (21.7%) with changes in one index, five patients (5.4%) with changes in two indexes, and six patients (6.5%) with changes in three or more indexes. The median time of peak values of ALT and AST were d17 and d14, respectively, and the median duration of exceeding grade 2 was 5.0 and 3.5 days, respectively. The median time of peak values of TBIL and DBIL was on d19 and d21, respectively, and the median duration of exceeding grade 2 was 4.0 days, respectively. The median time of onset of CRS was d8, and the peak time of fever was d9. The ALT, AST, and TBIL of patients with CRS were higher than those of patients without CRS (P=0.011, 0.002, and 0.015, respectively). CRS is an independent factor that affects ALT and TBIL levels (OR=19.668, 95% CI 18.959-20.173, P=0.001). The evolution of liver indexes can be reversed through anti-CRS and liver-protection treatments, and no patient died of liver injury. Conclusions: In BCMA-based CAR-T-cell therapy for RRMM, CRS is an important factor causing the evolution of liver indexes. The evolution of liver indexes after CAR-T-cell infusion is transient and reversible after treatment.

Reduction-responsive nucleic acid nanocarrier-mediated miR-22 inhibition of PI3K/AKT pathway for the treatment of patient-derived tumor xenograft osteosarcoma

miRNAs are important regulators of gene expression and play key roles in the development of cancer, including osteosarcoma. During the development of osteosarcoma, the expression of miR-22 is significantly downregulated, making miR-22 as a promising therapeutic target against osteosarcoma. To design and fabricate efficient delivery carriers of miR-22 into osteosarcoma cells, a hydroxyl-rich reduction-responsive cationic polymeric nanoparticle, TGIC-CA (TC), was developed in this work, which also enhanced the therapeutic effects of Volasertib on osteosarcoma. TC was prepared by the ring-opening reaction between amino and epoxy groups by one-pot method, which had the good complexing ability with nucleic acids, reduction-responsive degradability and gene transfection performance. TC/miR-22 combined with volasertib could inhibit proliferation, migration and promote apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells in vitro. The anti-tumor mechanisms were revealed as TC/miR-22 and volasertib could inhibit the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway synergistically. Furthermore, this strategy showed outstanding tumor suppression performance in animal models of orthotopic osteosarcoma, especially in patient-derived chemo-resistant and chemo-intolerant patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, which reduced the risk of tumor lung metastasis and overcame drug resistance. Therefore, it has great potential for efficient treatment of metastasis and drug resistance of osteosarcoma by the strategy of localized, sustained delivery of miR-22 using the cationic nanocarriers combined with non-traditional chemotherapy drugs.

Nrf2--a hidden bridge linking cancer stem cells to ferroptosis

Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small population of stem cells existing in cancer cells, are considered as the "culprits" of tumor recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. Ferroptosis is a promising new lead in anti-cancer therapy. Because of unique metabolic characteristics, CSCs' growth is more dependent on the iron and lipid than ordinary cancer cells. When the metabolism of iron/lipid is disordered, that is, imbalanced redox homeostasis, CSCs are more susceptible to ferroptosis. The expression of Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a molecule playing a major regulatory role in redox homeostasis, determines whether the cells are under oxidative stress and ferroptosis occurs. Nrf2 expression level is higher in CSCs, indicating stronger dependence on Nrf2. Here we expound the unique biological and metabolic characteristics of CSCs, explore the mechanism of inducing ferroptosis by targeting Nrf2, thus providing promising new targets for eliminating aggressive tumors and achieving the goal of curing tumors.

30 Gy vs. 45 Gy Consolidative Thoracic Radiation (cTRT) for Extensive Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer (ES-SCLC): A Multicenter, Randomized, Phase 3 Trial

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Consolidative thoracic radiotherapy (cTRT) showed potential benefit to extensive stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). However, the optimum dose of cTRT is unknown. The purpose of this randomized trial was to compare the effect of 45 Gy in 15 fractions with 30 Gy in 10 fractions cTRT in ES-SCLC.

MATERIALS/METHODS

This phase III, randomized trial was conducted in 12 public hospitals in China. Eligible patients with pathologically confirmed ES-SCLC who responded to 4-6 cycles of etoposide plus cisplatin (EP) or carboplatin (EC) chemotherapy were randomized 1:1 to receive either 30 Gy in 10 fractions or 45 Gy in 15 fractions cTRT. The primary outcome was 2-year overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes included 2-year progression-free survival (PFS), 2-year local control (LC) and radiation treatment related toxicity. The primary objective was to detect an OS improvement in 45 Gy cTRT group at 2 years from 13% to 26% assuming a two-sided a = 0.05 and power of 85%, with a planned sample size of 186 patients. This trial was registered with Clinical Trials.gov, number NCT02675088.

RESULTS

Between January 15, 2016, and September 20, 2022, 90 patients were randomly assigned either 30 Gy in 10 fractions (n = 50) or 45 Gy in 15 fractions (n = 40) cTRT group. Recruitment to the trial closed early due to slow accrual since first-line chemoimmunotherapy has become the new standard of care for ES-SCLC. The median age of patients was 58 years, 87.8% were male, 76.7% had a smoking history, 95.6% received IMRT, and 58.9% received prophylactic cranial irradiation. At a median follow-up of 39.9 months (IQR 27.2-59.2), there was no significant difference in the 2-year OS between the 45 Gy group and the 30 Gy group, at 43.4% (95% CI 29.3%-64.3%) and 40.0% (95% CI 27.9%-59.1%), respectively (log-rank p = 0.62; HR 1.13 [95% CI 0.69-1.84]). The 2-year PFS was 12.1% (95% CI 4.3%-33.8%) in the 45 Gy group and 9.0% (95% CI 3.2%-25.2%) in the 30 Gy group (log-rank p = 0.25, HR 0.76(95% CI [0.478-1.22]). There were also no significant differences in locoregional recurrence free survival (log-rank p = 0.75; HR 0.888 [95% CI 0.423-1.863]) and distant metastasis free survival (log-rank p = 0.95; HR 1.015 [95% CI 0.624-1.651]) between two groups. No grade 5 toxicity was observed in both groups. Patients treated with higher cTRT dose presented with increased incidence of grade 3+ radiation pneumonitis (10% vs 2%) and hematological toxicity (20% vs 12.5%).

CONCLUSION

This randomized trial did not find a higher probability of survival improvement in patients with ES-SCLC receiving cTRT of 45 Gy in 15 fractions compared with 30 Gy in 10 fractions. In contrast, there was an increase in toxicity, especially radiation pneumonitis. Additional randomized studies investigating the role of cTRT in ES-SCLC after a response to chemoimmunotherapy are warranted.

Degradation of NLRP3 by p62-dependent-autophagy improves cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease by maintaining the phagocytic function of microglia

BACKGROUND

Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome promotes microglia to secrete inflammatory cytokines and induce pyroptosis, leading to impaired phagocytic and clearance functions of microglia in Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study found that the autophagy-associated protein p62 interacts with NLRP3, which is the rate-limiting protein of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Thus, we aimed to prove that the degradation of NLRP3 occurs through the autophagy-lysosome pathway (ALP) and also demonstrate its effects on the function of microglia and pathological changes in AD.

METHODS

The 5XFAD/NLRP3-KO mouse model was established to study the effect of NLRP3 reduction on AD. Behavioral experiments were conducted to assess the cognitive function of the mice. In addition, immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the deposition of Aβ plaques and morphological changes in microglia. BV2 cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) followed by Aβ1-42 oligomers were used as in vitro AD inflammation models and transfected with lentivirus to regulate the expression of the target protein. The pro-inflammatory status and function of BV2 cells were detected by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence (IF). Co-immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometry, IF, Western blot (WB), quantitative real-time PCR, and RNA-seq analysis were used to elucidate the mechanisms of molecular regulation.

RESULTS

Cognitive function was improved in the 5XFAD/NLRP3-KO mouse model by reducing the pro-inflammatory response of microglia and maintaining the phagocytic and clearance function of microglia to the deposited Aβ plaque. The pro-inflammatory function and pyroptosis of microglia were regulated by NLRP3 expression. Ubiquitinated NLRP3 can be recognized by p62 and degraded by ALP, slowing down the proinflammatory function and pyroptosis of microglia. The expression of autophagy pathway-related proteins such as LC3B/A, p62 was increased in the AD model in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

P62 recognizes and binds to ubiquitin-modified NLRP3. It plays a vital role in regulating the inflammatory response by participating in ALP-associated NLRP3 protein degradation, which improves cognitive function in AD by reducing the pro-inflammatory status and pyroptosis of microglia, thus maintaining its phagocytic function.

Ceruloplasmin regulating fibrosis in orbital fibroblasts provides a novel therapeutic target for Graves' orbitopathy

PURPOSE

In diagnosing the pathogenesis of Graves' orbitopathy (GO), there is a growing interest in fibrosis generated by orbital fibroblasts (OFs); nevertheless, the involvement of ceruloplasmin (CP) in OFs remains unknown.

METHODS

Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified through bioinformatic analysis. OFs were isolated from orbital tissue and identified with immunofluorescent staining. The levels of DEGs were validated in GO tissue samples and TGF-β-challenged OFs, and CP was selected for the following laboratory investigations. CP overexpression or knockdown was achieved, and cell viability and fibrosis-associated proteins were investigated to assess the cell phenotype and function. Signaling pathways were subsequently investigated to explore the mechanism of CP function in OFs.

RESULTS

CP and cathepsin C (CTSC) are two overlapped DEGs in GSE58331 and GSE105149. OFs were isolated and identified through fibrotic biomarkers. CP and CTSC were downregulated in GO tissue samples and TGF-β-challenged OFs. CP overexpression or knockdown was achieved in OFs by transducing a CP overexpression vector or small interfering RNA against CP (si1-CP or si2-CP) and verified using a qRT-PCR. CP overexpression inhibited cell viability and reduced the levels of α-SMA, vimentin, fibronectin, and collagen I, whereas CP knockdown exerted opposite effects on OFs. CP overexpression inhibited the phosphorylation of Smad3, Erk1/2, p38, JNK, and AKT; conversely, CP knockdown exerted opposite effects on the phosphorylation of factors mentioned above.

CONCLUSION

CP was downregulated in GO and suppressed the expression of fibrosis-associated proteins in both GO and normal OFs. CP might serve as a promising therapeutic agent in the treatment regimens for GO.

BPDE-DNA adduct formation and alterations of mRNA, protein, and DNA methylation of CYP1A1, GSTP1, and GSTM1 induced by benzo[a]pyrene and the intervention of aspirin in mice

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), one typical environmental pollutant, the toxicity mechanisms, and potential prevention remain perplexing. Available evidence suggests cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) and glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) metabolize B[a]P, resulting in metabolic activation and detoxification of B[a]P. This study aimed to reveal the impact of B[a]P exposure on trans-7,8-diol-anti-9,10-epoxide DNA (BPDE-DNA) adduct formation, level of CYP1A1, glutathione S-transferase pi (GSTP1) and glutathione S-transferase mu1 (GSTM1) mRNA, protein and DNA methylation in mice, and the potential prevention of aspirin (ASP). This study firstly determined the BPDE-DNA adduct formation in an acute toxicity test of a large dose in mice induced by B[a]P, which subsequently detected CYP1A1, GSTP1, and GSTM1 at levels of mRNA, protein, and DNA methylation in the organs of mice in a subacute toxicity test at appropriate doses and the potential prevention of ASP, using the methods of real-time quantitative PCR (QPCR), western blotting, and real-time methylation-specific PCR (MSP), respectively. The results verified that B[a]P induced the formation of BPDE-DNA adduct in all the organs of mice in an acute toxicity test, and the order of concentration of which was lung > kidney > liver > brain. In a subacute toxicity test, following B[a]P treatment, mice showed a dose-dependent slowdown in body weight gain and abnormalities in behavioral and cognitive function and which were alleviated by ASP co-treatment. Compared to the controls, following B[a]P treatment, CYP1A1 was significantly induced in all organs in mice at mRNA level (P < 0.05), was suppressed in the lung and cerebrum of mice at protein level, and inhibited at DNA methylation level in the liver, lung, and cerebrum, whereas GSTP1 and GSTM1 at mRNA, protein, and DNA methylation levels showed organ-specific changes in mice following B[a]P treatment, which was generally alleviated by ASP intervention. In conclusion, B[a]P induced BPDE-DNA adduct formation in all organs in mice and altered the mRNA, protein, and DNA methylation levels in CYP1A1, GSTP1, and GSTM1 in an organ-dependent pattern, which could be related to the organ toxicity and mechanism of B[a]P. ASP intervention may be an effective measure to prevent B[a]P toxicity. The findings provide scientific evidence for further study on the organ toxicity and mechanisms of B[a]P.

Intercellular Mechanisms of Therapeutic Resistance at the Tumor-Stromal Interface Using Ultra High-Plex Single-Cell Spatial Transcriptomics and Genetically-Engineered Tumoroids

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

There is a major gap in knowledge regarding how intercellular interactions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) mediate therapeutic resistance. Achievement of this goal has been limited by a lack of (1) spatial context in dissociated single-cell methods; (2) single-cell resolution in spatial profiling approaches; (3) high quality data and yield with FFPE patient specimens; and (4) computational methods for ligand-receptor analyses that consider both gene expression and spatial coordinates.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We developed an innovative spatial biology paradigm that combines cutting-edge experimental and computational methods to enable high-resolution, spatially-guided discovery of critical mediators of therapeutic resistance. We applied this approach to dissect the single-cell spatial transcriptomic landscape of untreated vs. chemoradiotherapy-treated primary human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC; n = 21) using ultra-high plex spatial molecular imaging (SMI) optimized for high-sensitivity, subcellular detection of up to 6000 gene transcripts in FFPE sections-an order of magnitude greater than contemporary methods.

RESULTS

We recovered over 1,000,000 high-quality single cells in situ representing more than 20 distinct cell types, including epithelial, immune, endothelial, endocrine, and diverse stromal cells. We developed an optimal transport-based computational method to infer cell-cell communication at the cancer-stromal interface. Treatment with chemoradiotherapy was associated with the largest increase in fibroblast-malignant interactions. Comparing the SMI data with orthogonal single-nucleus RNA-sequencing and digital spatial profiling data, we identified CLCF1-CNTFR as the fibroblast-malignant interaction most associated with resistance to chemoradiotherapy in PDAC. CLCF1 is a gp130-family cytokine that activates Jak-STAT signaling and acts as a potent neurotrophic factor. Notably, the CLCF1-CNTRF (fibroblast-malignant) interaction has prominent pro-oncogenic effects in lung adenocarcinoma and an engineered CNTFR decoy receptor with therapeutic potential has been developed. To functionally validate the role of the CLCF1-CNTFR (fibroblast-malignant) interaction in mediating resistance to cytotoxic therapy, we created CRISPR-engineered cancer-fibroblast tumoroids and modulated expression of this ligand-receptor pair. Pancreatic cancer cell viability in the presence of 5-fluorouracil was better maintained with increased CLCF1-CNTFR signaling.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we integrated ultra high-plex single-cell spatial transcriptomics, optimal transport ligand-receptor predictions, and genetically-engineered stromal tumoroids to identify and validate CLCF1-CNTFR as an important intercellular mechanism of resistance to chemoradiotherapy in PDAC-pioneering a paradigm for translating single-cell spatial biology to clinical oncology.

Heat stress combined with lipopolysaccharide induces pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell glycocalyx inflammatory damage in vitro

Heat stroke is a life-threatening disease with high mortality and complications. Endothelial glycocalyx (EGCX) is essential for maintaining endothelial cell structure and function as well as preventing the adhesion of inflammatory cells. Potential relationship that underlies the imbalance in inflammation and coagulation remains elusive. Moreover, the role of EGCX in heat stroke-induced organ injury remained unclear. Therefore, the current study aimed to illustrate if EGCX aggravates apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative damage in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMEC). Heat stress and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were employed to construct in vitro models to study the changes of glycocalyx structure and function, as well as levels of heparansulfate proteoglycan (HSPG), syndecan-1 (SDC-1), heparansulfate (HS), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, Von Willebrand factor (vWF), endothelin-1 (ET-1), occludin, E-selectin, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Here, we showed that heat stress and LPS devastated EGCX structure, activated EGCX degradation, and triggered oxidative damage and apoptosis in HPMEC. Stimulation of heat stress and LPS decreased expression of HSPG, increased levels of SDC-1 and HS in culture supernatant, promoted the production and release of proinflammation cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6,) and coagulative factors (vWF and ET-1) in HPMEC. Furthermore, Expressions of E-selection, VCAM-1, and ROS were upregulated, while that of occludin was downregulated. These changes could be deteriorated by heparanase, whereas they meliorated by unfractionated heparin. This study indicated that EGCX may contribute to apoptosis and heat stroke-induced coagulopathy, and these effects may have been due to the decrease in the shedding of EGCX.

Genetics of osteonecrosis in children and adults with systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVES

Genetics plays an important role in SLE risk, as well as osteonecrosis (ON), a significant and often debilitating complication of SLE. We aimed to identify genetic risk loci for ON in people with childhood-onset (cSLE) and adult-onset (aSLE) SLE.

METHODS

We enrolled participants from two tertiary care centres who met classification criteria for SLE. Participants had prospectively collected clinical data and were genotyped on a multiethnic array. Un-genotyped single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were imputed, and ancestry was inferred using principal components (PCs). Our outcome was symptomatic ON confirmed by imaging. We completed time-to-ON and logistic regression of ON genome-wide association studies (GWASs) with covariates for sex, age of SLE diagnosis, five PCs for ancestry, corticosteroid use and selected SLE manifestations. We conducted separate analyses for cSLE and aSLE and meta-analysed results using inverse-variance weighting. Genome-wide significance was P < 5 × 10-8.

RESULTS

The study included 940 participants with SLE, 87% female and 56% with cSLE. ON was present in 7.6% (n = 71). Median age of SLE diagnosis was 16.9 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 13.5, 29.3), with median follow-up of 8.0 years (IQR: 4.2, 15.7). Meta-GWAS of cSLE and aSLE time-to-ON of 4 431 911 SNPs identified a significant Chr.2 SNP, rs34118383 (minor allele frequency = 0.18), intronic to WIPF1 (hazard ratio = 3.2 [95% CI: 2.2, 4.8]; P = 1.0 × 10-8).

CONCLUSION

We identified an intronic WIPF1 variant associated with a 3.2 times increased hazard for ON (95% CI: 2.2, 4.8; P = 1.0 × 10-8) during SLE follow-up, independent of corticosteroid exposure. The effect of the SNP on time-to-ON was similar in cSLE and aSLE. This novel discovery represents a potential ON risk locus. Our results warrant replication.

Molecular oxygen-assisted in defect-rich ZnO for catalytic depolymerization of polyethylene terephthalate

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the most produced polyester plastic; its waste has a disruptive impact on the environment and ecosystem. Here, we report a catalytic depolymerization of PET into bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) using molecule oxygen (O2)-assisted in defect-rich ZnO. At air, the PET conversion rate, the BHET yield, and the space-time yield are 3.5, 10.6, and 10.6 times higher than those in nitrogen, respectively. Combining structural characterization with the results of DFT calculations, we conclude that the (100) facet of defect-rich ZnO nanosheets conducive to the formation of reactive oxygen species (∗O2-) and Zn defect, promotes the PET breakage of the ester bond and thus complete the depolymerization processed. This approach demonstrates a sustainable route for PET depolymerization by molecule-assisted defect engineering.

Use of peripheral blood eosinophils to guide post-operative glucocorticoid therapy in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: a randomised, controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the utility of the eosinophil percentage in peripheral blood for guiding post-operative glucocorticoid therapy in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

METHODS

Forty-four patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps underwent functional endoscopic sinus surgery and were randomly divided into two groups. Patients in the standard treatment group used oral and nasal spray glucocorticoids. In the biomarker treatment group, patients with peripheral blood eosinophil percentage values less than 3.05 per cent did not receive glucocorticoid treatment, whereas patients with values 3.05 per cent or above were part of the standard treatment group. Visual Analogue Scale, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 scores, endoscopic Lund-Kennedy scores, eosinophils, interleukin-5 and eosinophil cationic protein in peripheral blood, and nasal secretions were measured.

RESULTS

After functional endoscopic sinus surgery, the Visual Analogue Scale, Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-22 and Lund-Kennedy scores were significantly reduced in both groups; there were no significant differences in those indicators between the groups during the three follow-up visits.

CONCLUSION

Peripheral blood eosinophil percentage offers a potential biomarker to guide post-operative glucocorticoid therapy in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

Common Risk Variants in AHI1 Are Associated With Childhood Steroid Sensitive Nephrotic Syndrome

Introduction

Steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) is the most common form of kidney disease in children worldwide. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have demonstrated the association of SSNS with genetic variation at HLA-DQ/DR and have identified several non-HLA loci that aid in further understanding of disease pathophysiology. We sought to identify additional genetic loci associated with SSNS in children of Sri Lankan and European ancestry.

Methods

We conducted a GWAS in a cohort of Sri Lankan individuals comprising 420 pediatric patients with SSNS and 2339 genetic ancestry matched controls obtained from the UK Biobank. We then performed a transethnic meta-analysis with a previously reported European cohort of 422 pediatric patients and 5642 controls.

Results

Our GWAS confirmed the previously reported association of SSNS with HLA-DR/DQ (rs9271602, P = 1.12 × 10-27, odds ratio [OR] = 2.75). Transethnic meta-analysis replicated these findings and identified a novel association at AHI1 (rs2746432, P = 2.79 × 10-8, OR = 1.37), which was also replicated in an independent South Asian cohort. AHI1 is implicated in ciliary protein transport and immune dysregulation, with rare variation in this gene contributing to Joubert syndrome type 3.

Conclusions

Common variation in AHI1 confers risk of the development of SSNS in both Sri Lankan and European populations. The association with common variation in AHI1 further supports the role of immune dysregulation in the pathogenesis of SSNS and demonstrates that variation across the allele frequency spectrum in a gene can contribute to disparate monogenic and polygenic diseases.

[Risk predictive models of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province based on the machine learning]

OBJECTIVE

To create risk predictive models of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province based on machine learning algorithms, so as to provide insights into early identification of imported malaria cases in Jiangsu Province.

METHODS

Case investigation, first symptoms and time of initial diagnosis of imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province in 2019 were captured from Infectious Disease Report Information Management System and Parasitic Disease Prevention and Control Information Management System of Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The risk predictive models of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients were created with the back propagation (BP) neural network model, logistic regression model, random forest model and Bayesian model using thirteen factors as independent variables, including occupation, species of malaria parasite, main clinical manifestations, presence of complications, severity of disease, age, duration of residing abroad, frequency of malaria parasite infections abroad, incubation period, level of institution at initial diagnosis, country of origin, number of individuals travelling with patients and way to go abroad, and time of healthcare-seeking delay as a dependent variable. Logistic regression model was visualized using a nomogram, and the nomogram was evaluated using calibration curves. In addition, the efficiency of the four models for prediction of risk of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients was evaluated using the area under curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). The importance of each characteristic was quantified and attributed by using SHAP to examine the positive and negative effects of the value of each characteristic on the predictive efficiency.

RESULTS

A total of 244 imported malaria patients were enrolled, including 100 cases (40.98%) with the duration from onset of first symptoms to time of initial diagnosis that exceeded 24 hours. Logistic regression analysis identified a history of malaria parasite infection [odds ratio (OR) = 3.075, 95% confidential interval (CI): (1.597, 5.923)], long incubation period [OR = 1.010, 95% CI: (1.001, 1.018)] and seeking healthcare in provincial or municipal medical facilities [OR = 12.550, 95% CI: (1.158, 135.963)] as risk factors for delay in seeking healthcare among imported malaria cases. BP neural network modeling showed that duration of residing abroad, incubation period and age posed great impacts on delay in healthcare-seek among imported malaria patients. Random forest modeling showed that the top five factors with the greatest impact on healthcare-seeking delay included main clinical manifestations, the way to go abroad, incubation period, duration of residing abroad and age among imported malaria patients, and Bayesian modeling revealed that the top five factors affecting healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients included level of institutions at initial diagnosis, age, country of origin, history of malaria parasite infection and individuals travelling with imported malaria patients. ROC curve analysis showed higher overall performance of the BP neural network model and the logistic regression model for prediction of the risk of healthcare-seeking delay among imported malaria patients (Z = 2.700 to 4.641, all P values < 0.01), with no statistically significant difference in the AUC among four models (Z = 1.209, P > 0.05). The sensitivity (71.00%) and Youden index (43.92%) of the logistic regression model was higher than those of the BP neural network (63.00% and 36.61%, respectively), and the specificity of the BP neural network model (73.61%) was higher than that of the logistic regression model (72.92%).

CONCLUSIONS

Imported malaria cases with long duration of residing abroad, a history of malaria parasite infection, long incubation period, advanced age and seeking healthcare in provincial or municipal medical institutions have a high likelihood of delay in healthcare-seeking in Jiangsu Province. The models created based on the logistic regression and BP neural network show a high efficiency for prediction of the risk of healthcare-seeking among imported malaria patients in Jiangsu Province, which may provide insights into health management of imported malaria patients.

[Prevalence and genotyping of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia lamblia in dogs and cats from a pet hospital in Shanghai Municipality]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence and genotypes of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia lamblia in dogs and cats from a pet hospital in Shanghai Municipality.

METHODS

A total of 145 fresh fecal samples were collected from pet dogs and cats in a pet hospital in Shanghai Municipality during the period from November 2021 to June 2022, including 99 dog fecal samples and 46 cat fecal samples. The small subunit ribosomal ribonucleic acid (SSU rRNA) gene of Cryptosporidium and the triose phosphate isomerase (TPI) gene of G. lamblia were amplified using nested PCR assay, and the positive amplification products were sequenced from both directions. The sequence assembly was performed using the software Clustal X 2.1, and sequence alignment was conducted using BLAST. A phylogenetic tree was created with the Neighbor-Joining method using MEGA 11.0 to identify parasite species or genotype.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium and G. lamblia was 20.00% (29/145) in 145 pet dog and cat fecal samples, with the prevalence of 0.69% (1/145) and 19.31% (28/145) in Cryptosporidium and G. lamblia, respectively. G. lamblia was only detected in dog fecal samples, with prevalence of 18.18% (18/99), while the detection rates of Cryptosporidium and G. lamblia were 2.17% (1/46) and 21.74% (10/46) in cat fecal samples. Nucleotide sequence analysis showed that one Cryptosporidium positive sample was characterized as C. felis, and 28 G. lamblia positive samples were all characterized as Giardia assemblage A, which showed 100% sequence homology with human isolates of Giardia. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the sequences obtained in this study belonged to the same branch with the reported Giardia assemblage A.

CONCLUSIONS

Cryptosporidium and G. lamblia infection was prevalent in pet dogs and cats from the study pet hospital in Shanghai Municipality, and there is a zoonotic risk for the species and genotype. Intensified surveillance of Cryptosporidium and Giardia infection is recommended in pets and their owners, and improved management of pet keeping is required.

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors as A Threat to Reproductive Function: A Systematic Review

In recent years, the indications for immunotherapy in cancer treatment have been expanding. The increased risk of cancer in young people, coupled with the fact that many women or men choose to delay childbearing, has made an increasing number of patients of childbearing age eligible for immunotherapy. Furthermore, with the improvements of various treatments, more young people and children are able to survive cancer. As a result, long-term sequelae of cancer treatments, such as reproductive dysfunction, are increasingly important for survivors. While many anti-cancer drugs are known to cause reproduction dysfunction, the effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) on reproduction function remain largely unknown. Through a retrospective analysis of previous reports and literature, this article aims to elucidate the causes of reproductive dysfunction induced by ICIs and focus on their specific mechanisms, in order to providing some guidance to clinicians and patients.

[Three-dimensional printed 316L stainless steel cardiovascular stent's electrolytic polishing and its mechanical properties]

The interventional therapy of vascular stent implantation is a popular treatment method for cardiovascular stenosis and blockage. However, traditional stent manufacturing methods such as laser cutting are complex and cannot easily manufacture complex structures such as bifurcated stents, while three-dimensional (3D) printing technology provides a new method for manufacturing stents with complex structure and personalized designs. In this paper, a cardiovascular stent was designed, and printed using selective laser melting technology and 316L stainless steel powder of 0-10 µm size. Electrolytic polishing was performed to improve the surface quality of the printed vascular stent, and the expansion behavior of the polished stent was assessed by balloon inflation. The results showed that the newly designed cardiovascular stent could be manufactured by 3D printing technology. Electrolytic polishing removed the attached powder and reduced the surface roughness Ra from 1.36 µm to 0.82 µm. The axial shortening rate of the polished bracket was 4.23% when the outside diameter was expanded from 2.42 mm to 3.63 mm under the pressure of the balloon, and the radial rebound rate was 2.48% after unloading. The radial force of polished stent was 8.32 N. The 3D printed vascular stent can remove the surface powder through electrolytic polishing to improve the surface quality, and show good dilatation performance and radial support performance, which provides a reference for the practical application of 3D printed vascular stent.

Aspirin ameliorates the neurotoxicity of benzo[a]pyrene in mice and HT22 cells: Possible role of miRNA-mRNA network

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) is neurotoxic, however, the mechanism and potential prevention are yet not clear. This study explored the miRNA-mRNA network in the B[a]P-induced neurotoxicity in mice and HT22 cells and the intervention of aspirin (ASP). HT22 cells were treated for 48 h with DMSO, B[a]P (20 μM), or both B[a]P (20 μM) and ASP (4 μM). Following B[a]P treatment, compared to the DMSO controls, HT22 cells showed injured cell morphology, reduced cell viability and neurotrophic factor concentrations, and increased LDH leakage, Aβ_1-42, and inflammatory factor concentrations, which were improved by ASP. RNA sequencing and qPCR verified the significant differences of miRNA and mRNA profiles following B[a]P treatment, which were rescued by ASP. Bioinformatics analysis suggested the miRNA-mRNA network could be involved in the neurotoxicity of B[a]P and the intervention of ASP. The neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation were induced in mice's brains by B[a]P, and the target miRNA and mRNA were proved to be consistent with in vitro, which were ameliorated by ASP. The findings demonstrate a possible role of miRNA-mRNA network in the B[a]P-induced neurotoxicity. If this is confirmed by additional experiments, it will provide a promising pathway of intervention against B[a]P, using ASP or other agents with fewer toxic effects.

Shared genetic risk across different presentations of gene test-negative idiopathic nephrotic syndrome

BACKGROUND

Idiop athic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is classified in children according to response to initial corticosteroid therapy into steroid-sensitive (SSNS) and steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS), and in adults according to histology into minimal change disease (MCD) and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). However, there is well-recognised phenotypic overlap between these entities. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have shown a strong association between SSNS and variation at HLA, suggesting an underlying immunological basis. We sought to determine whether a risk score generated from genetic variants associated with SSNS could be used to gain insight into the pathophysiology of INS presenting in other ways.

METHODS

We developed an SSNS genetic risk score (SSNS-GRS) from the five variants independently associated with childhood SSNS in a previous European GWAS. We quantified SSNS-GRS in independent cohorts of European individuals with childhood SSNS, non-monogenic SRNS, MCD, and FSGS, and contrasted them with SSNS-GRS quantified in individuals with monogenic SRNS, membranous nephropathy (a different immune-mediated disease-causing nephrotic syndrome), and healthy controls.

RESULTS

The SSNS-GRS was significantly elevated in cohorts with SSNS, non-monogenic SRNS, MCD, and FSGS compared to healthy participants and those with membranous nephropathy. The SSNS-GRS in all cohorts with non-monogenic INS were also significantly elevated compared to those with monogenic SRNS.

CONCLUSIONS

The shared genetic risk factors among patients with different presentations of INS strongly suggests a shared autoimmune pathogenesis when monogenic causes are excluded. Use of the SSNS-GRS, in addition to testing for monogenic causes, may help to classify patients presenting with INS. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.

PULMONARY VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GLYCOCALYX DEGRADATION CONTRIBUTES TO ACUTE LUNG INJURY IN EXPERIENCING HEATSTROKE

ABSTRACT

Objectives: This study investigated the role and potential involvement of pulmonary vascular glycocalyx degradation in acute lung injury in rats with severe heatstroke (HS). Methods: Rats in an established HS model were exposed to a heated environment for 60 min in an incubator (temperature, 40°C ± 2°C; humidity, 65% ± 5%). Following pretreatment with heparanase III (HPSE III) or heparin, pathological lung injury, arterial blood gas, alveolar barrier disruption, and hemodynamic changes were evaluated. The vascular endothelial structures of the lungs were examined using electron microscopy. The concentration of Evans blue dye in the lungs and arterial blood gas were assessed. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to quantify the plasma concentration of heparan sulfate proteoglycan. The expression of glypican-1 and syndecan-1 in pulmonary vessels was measured using immunofluorescence. Western blots were used to detect the expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and vascular endothelial biomarkers in the rat lungs. Pulmonary apoptosis was assessed using a TUNEL (terminal dUTP nick end labeling) assay, and the concentrations of malondialdehyde were measured. Results: Glycocalyx shedding aggravated lung injuries. Severe histopathological damage was observed, and indexes of lung function deviated from abnormal ranges. In addition, pulmonary vascular endothelial cells were disrupted. Compared with the HS group, the plasma concentration of heparan sulfate proteoglycan significantly increased in the HPSE group ( P < 0.05). The expression of glypican-1 and syndecan-1 decreased, and the extravasation of Evans blue dye increased ( P < 0.01). Endothelial biomarker expression increased in the lung tissue, whereas occludin expression decreased. Moreover, TNF-α and IL-6 were overexpressed following heat stress. Furthermore, apoptosis of pulmonary tissues and the concentration of malondialdehyde in rat lungs increased in the HS and HPSE groups. Conclusions : Heatstroke induced pulmonary glycocalyx degradation, which increased vascular permeability and aggravated vascular endothelial dysfunction, contributing to apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidation in the pulmonary tissues.

Improved Measurement of the Evolution of the Reactor Antineutrino Flux and Spectrum at Daya Bay

Reactor neutrino experiments play a crucial role in advancing our knowledge of neutrinos. In this Letter, the evolution of the flux and spectrum as a function of the reactor isotopic content is reported in terms of the inverse-beta-decay yield at Daya Bay with 1958 days of data and improved systematic uncertainties. These measurements are compared with two signature model predictions: the Huber-Mueller model based on the conversion method and the SM2018 model based on the summation method. The measured average flux and spectrum, as well as the flux evolution with the ^{239}Pu isotopic fraction, are inconsistent with the predictions of the Huber-Mueller model. In contrast, the SM2018 model is shown to agree with the average flux and its evolution but fails to describe the energy spectrum. Altering the predicted inverse-beta-decay spectrum from ^{239}Pu fission does not improve the agreement with the measurement for either model. The models can be brought into better agreement with the measurements if either the predicted spectrum due to ^{235}U fission is changed or the predicted ^{235}U, ^{238}U, ^{239}Pu, and ^{241}Pu spectra are changed in equal measure.

[Activation of GABAergic neurons in the zona incerta accelerates anesthesia induction with sevoflurane and propofol without affecting anesthesia maintenance or awakening in mice]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the regulatory effects of GABAergic neurons in the zona incerta (ZI) on sevoflurane and propofol anesthesia.

METHODS

Forty-eight male C57BL/6J mice divided into 8 groups (n=6) were used in this study. In the study of sevoflurane anesthesia, chemogenetic experiment was performed in 2 groups of mice with injection of either adeno-associated virus carrying hM3Dq (hM3Dq group) or a virus carrying only mCherry (mCherry group). The optogenetic experiment was performed in another two groups of mice injected with an adeno-associated virus carrying ChR2 (ChR2 group) or GFP only (GFP group). The same experiments were also performed in mice for studying propofol anesthesia. Chemogenetics or optogenetics were used to induce the activation of GABAergic neurons in the ZI, and their regulatory effects on anesthesia induction and arousal with sevoflurane and propofol were observed; EEG monitoring was used to observe the changes in sevoflurane anesthesia maintenance after activation of the GABAergic neurons.

RESULTS

In sevoflurane anesthesia, the induction time of anesthesia was significantly shorter in hM3Dq group than in mCherry group (P < 0.05), and also shorter in ChR2 group than in GFP group (P < 0.01), but no significant difference was found in the awakening time between the two groups in either chemogenetic or optogenetic tests. Similar results were observed in chemogenetic and optogenetic experiments with propofol (P < 0.05 or 0.01). Photogenetic activation of the GABAergic neurons in the ZI did not cause significant changes in EEG spectrum during sevoflurane anesthesia maintenance.

CONCLUSION

Activation of the GABAergic neurons in the ZI promotes anesthesia induction of sevoflurane and propofol but does not affect anesthesia maintenance or awakening.