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ObjectiveTo explore the independent risk factors that affect the overall survival (OS) of elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC, ≥60 years old) and build a nomogram prediction model. MethodsClinical data of all elderly patients with HCC from the SEER database from 2005 to 2020 were downloaded from SEER database. In accordance with the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the screened patients were randomly assigned to a training group (70%) and a validation group (30%). The independent risk factors of elderly patients with HCC were determined by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses and further validated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. On the basis of the determined variables, nomograms were developed and verified to predict the OS of elderly patients with HCC at 6, 12, and 24 months. The consistency index (C index), calibration curve, receiver’s operating characteristic (ROC) curve, and area under curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the prediction efficiency and discrimination ability of the prediction model, and decision curve analysis (DCA) was used to evaluate the potential clinical application value of the nomogram. ResultsA total of 1134 elderly patients with HCC were included, with 793 in the training group and 341 in the validation group. Seven variables, including age, clinical grade, clinical stage, M stage, tumor size classification, and radiotherapy, were identified as independent prognostic factors of this population. The constructed nomogram shows excellent prediction performance, with C indices of 0.745 in the training group and 0.704 in the validation group. The AUC values of the training group at 6, 12, and 24 months were 0.785, 0.788, and 0.798, respectively, and those of the validation group were 0.780, 0.725, and 0.607, respectively. The calibration curve shows good consistency from the predicted survival probability to the actual probability. The ROC curve and DCA show that the nomogram proposed in this study has good prediction ability. ConclusionAge, clinical grade, clinical stage, M stage, tumor size classification, and radiotherapy are important influencing factors for the survival of elderly patients with HCC. The prediction model of prognosis nomogram constructed in this study has good predictive value, and it can be used to predict the OS of elderly patients with HCC, which could be helpful for individualized survival assessment and clinical management of these patients.

Abstract Background Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the deadliest malignant tumors with unknown pathogenesis. Due to its treatment resistance, high recurrence rate, and lack of reliable early detection techniques, a majority of patients have a poor prognosis. Therefore, identifying new tumor biomarkers and therapeutic targets is essential. This review aims to provide fresh insights into enhancing the prognosis of patients with GC by summarizing the processes through which microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate the tumor microenvironment (TME) and highlighting their critical role in the TME. Main text A comprehensive literature review was conducted by focusing on the interactions among tumor cells, extracellular matrix, blood vessels, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and immune cells within the GC TME. The role of noncoding RNAs, known as miRNAs, in modulating the TME through various signaling pathways, cytokines, growth factors, and exosomes was specifically examined. Tumor formation, metastasis, and therapy in GC are significantly influenced by interactions within the TME. miRNAs regulate tumor progression by modulating these interactions through multiple signaling pathways, cytokines, growth factors, and exosomes. Dysregulation of miRNAs affects critical cellular processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and treatment resistance, contributing to the pathogenesis of GC. Conclusions miRNAs play a crucial role in the regulation of the GC TME, influencing tumor progression and patient prognosis. By understanding the mechanisms through which miRNAs control the TME, potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets can be identified to improve the prognosis of patients with GC.

Abstract Background High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) is considered an end-stage acute mountain sickness (AMS) that typically occurs in people after rapid ascent to 2500 m or more. While hypoxia is a fundamental feature of the pathophysiological mechanism of HACE, emerging evidence suggests that inflammation serves as a key risk factor in the occurrence and development of this disease. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism underlying their crosstalk. Methods A mouse HACE model was established by combination treatment with hypobaric hypoxia exposure and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulation. Lactylated-proteomic analysis of microglia was performed to reveal the global profile of protein lactylation. Molecular modeling was applied to evaluate the 3-D modeling structures. A combination of experimental approaches, including western blotting, quantitative real-time reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), confocal microscopy and RNA interference, were used to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Results We found that hypoxia exposure increased the lactate concentration and lactylation in mouse HACE model. Moreover, hypoxia aggravated the microglial neuroinflammatory response in a lactate-dependent manner. Global profiling of protein lactylation has shown that a large quantity of lysine-lactylated proteins are induced by hypoxia and preferentially occur in protein complexes, such as the NuRD complex, ribosome biogenesis complex, spliceosome complex, and DNA replication complex. The molecular modeling data indicated that lactylation could affect the 3-D theoretical structure and increase the solvent accessible surface area of HDAC1, MTA1 and Gatad2b, the core members of the NuRD complex. Further analysis by knockdown or selectively inhibition indicated that the NuRD complex is involved in hypoxia-mediated aggravation of inflammation. Conclusions These results revealed a comprehensive profile of protein lactylation in microglia and suggested that protein lysine lactylation plays an important role in the regulation of protein function and subsequently contributes to the neuroinflammatory response under hypoxic conditions.

ObjectiveTo investigate the number of cells in D3-stage embryos of high-quality blastocysts as a contributing factor, to evaluate the clinical pregnancy outcomes in frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles, and to determine the impact of D3-stage cell count on pregnancy outcomes.MethodsPatients under 38 years old who underwent frozen-thawed single high-quality blastocyst transfer at our center were selected. Based on the cell count of D3 cleavage-stage embryos forming blastocysts, patients were divided into three groups: ≤6 cells, 7-9 cells, and ≥10 cells. A multivariate regression analysis was used to establish the prediction model, analyzing the impact of different D3 cleavage-stage cell counts on clinical pregnancy outcomes to guide clinical laboratories in selecting blastocysts with the best pregnancy outcomes for transfer.ResultsThis study identified a significant association between D3 cell count, blastocyst development stage, and embryo age. Embryos with a higher D3 cell count (≥10) were more likely to reach advanced blastocyst stages and form blastocysts by D5, whereas embryos with fewer D3 cells (≤6) were more likely to form blastocysts on D6. While D3 cell count significantly influenced blastocyst stage and timing of embryo development, no significant differences were observed between groups regarding clinical pregnancy, implantation, or live birth rates. Notably, embryos with fewer D3 cells exhibited a significantly lower miscarriage rate than other groups. Multivariate regression analysis showed a significant correlation between blastocyst stage, embryo age, and D3 cell count, particularly in D5 embryos and more advanced blastocysts. The increased miscarriage rate may be related to lower D3 cell count, and inadequate endometrial preparation was associated with poorer pregnancy outcomes. The type of infertility was also linked to D3 cell count, with secondary infertility patients showing more significant influencing factors.ConclusionD3 cell count and related factors play a critical role in pregnancy outcomes during frozen-thawed high-quality blastocyst transfer cycles. Optimizing embryo age, selecting blastocysts at different stages, and refining endometrial preparation protocols are likely to enhance clinical pregnancy and live birth rates.

The non-uniform suspended sediment flowing into the Yangtze River Estuary (YRE) has a substantial impact on riverbed evolution and the ecological environment. Conducting a numerical simulation can provide missing measurement data and act as an important support for river management. In this study, we developed a formula for determining the non-uniform suspended sediment-carrying capacity (SCC) based on the statistical theory of sediment transport. The formula was applied to a river network model domaining the tidal section of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River (LYR) to simulate the non-uniform suspended sediment flowing into the YRE. The verification results showed that the model accurately simulated fine-grained sediments with a high measurement accuracy. The simulation results for coarse-grained sediments were consistent with riverbed evolution that manifests as erosion. Owing to the sediment transport complexity in natural rivers, we propose a method for optimizing calculations of the SCC that provides more accurate modeling results and can be adapted when the observational measurement accuracy is improved in the future. These findings provide support for simulations and measurements of non-uniform suspended sediment transported in the LYR.

Background: Although anaplastic lymphoma kinase tyrosine kinase inhibitors (ALK-TKIs) have improved the survival rates of lung cancer patients with ALK fusion mutations, their effectiveness varies significantly across different subtypes. We report a case of small intestine metastasis in a lung adenocarcinoma patient with co-occurring echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4 (EML4)-ALK fusion variant 3 (V3) and tumor protein 53 (TP53) mutations after distinct responses to ALK-TKIs. Case presentation: A 45-year-old woman was diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma with brain metastasis. Next-generation sequencing revealed EML4-ALK V3 and TP53 co-mutations. After the initial treatment with ensartinib, the patient experienced intracranial disease progression. Radiation therapy (RT) was then administered. Despite good response to RT for the intracranial disease, the primary tumor enlarged. Thus, the patient was treated with oral ensartinib concurrent with chemotherapy, with a partial response in both the primary tumor and intracranial metastases. However, after three cycles of treatment, the patient discontinued chemotherapy because of acute kidney injury. Subsequent thoracic RT resulted in a partial response of the primary tumor; however, new brain and bone metastases were detected, prompting a switch to lorlatinib. The patient developed symptoms of intestinal obstruction 14 months after the initial diagnosis. Surgical intervention revealed a poorly differentiated metastatic lung adenocarcinoma of the upper jejunum. Genetic testing confirmed EML4-ALK V3 and TP53 co-mutations and high expression of programmed cell death-ligand 1. Despite pembrolizumab treatment, the patient's condition deteriorated, and she passed away. Conclusion: We reported a rare case of small intestinal metastasis in a lung adenocarcinoma patient with concurrent EML4-ALK V3/TP53 mutations after distinct responses to ALK-TKIs in different lesions. Our findings revealed heterogeneity in ALK mutations and responses to ALK-TKIs, necessitating the close monitoring of genetic subtypes and associated mutations for tailored treatment strategies. Maintaining a heightened awareness of potential intestinal metastasis and vigilance in monitoring intestinal symptoms and abdominal metastases are pivotal for managing advanced lung adenocarcinoma.

Abstract. Liver metastases (LMs) are common in lung cancer. Despite substantial advances in diagnosis and treatment, the survival rate of patients with LM remains low as the immune-suppressive microenvironment of the liver allows tumor cells to evade the immune system. The impact of LMs on the outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with solid tumors has been the main focus of recent translational and clinical research. Growing evidence indicates that the hepatic microenvironment delivers paracrine and autocrine signals from non-parenchymal and parenchymal cells. Overall, these microenvironments create pre- and post-metastatic conditions for the progression of LMs. Herein, we reviewed the epidemiology, physiology, pathology and immunology, of LMs associated with non-small cell lung cancer and the role and potential targets of the liver microenvironment in LM in each phase of metastasis. Additionally, we reviewed the current treatment strategies and challenges that should be overcome in preclinical and clinical investigations. These approaches target liver elements as the basis for future clinical trials, including combinatorial interventions reported to resolve hepatic immune suppression, such as immunotherapy plus chemotherapy, immunotherapy plus radiotherapy, immunotherapy plus anti-angiogenesis therapy, and surgical resection.

Abstract Background Severe aplastic anemia (SAA) is a syndrome of bone marrow failure which is life-threatening. Recent studies have demonstrated that CD4 + T cell subsets, including T regulatory (Treg) and T helper 17 (Th17) cells, play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of SAA. Formononetin (FMN) is a natural compound extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Huangqi, which has the ability to regulate the imbalance of Treg/Th17 cells in some inflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, the therapeutic effect of FMN in SAA has yet to be definitively established. Therefore, the objective of this research was to investigate the effect of FMN on SAA and elucidate its underlying mechanism. Methods In vivo experiments, the mice were divided into the following five groups: control, model, low-dose FMN, high-dose FMN, and positive control cyclosporine A group. The immune-mediated bone marrow failure (BMF) mouse model was established by the total body X-ray radiation and lymphocyte infusion. After 10 days of continuous administration of FMN, the numbers of Treg/Th17 cells in the bone marrow and spleen were assessed by flow cytometry. The protein expressions of PI3K/Akt pathway in the bone marrow and spleen was assessed by immunohistochemistry and western blotting. In vitro, the impact of FMN on the differentiation of naive CD4 + T cells into Treg cells was investigated by flow cytometry and ELISA. Results In comparison with the control group, the model group showed a reduction in bone marrow nucleated cells, a significant decrease in peripheral blood cells, and an altered CD8 + /CD4 + T cell ratio. These findings indicate the successful establishment of a mouse model of immune-mediated BMF. After FMN treatment, there were the increased levels of red blood cells and hemoglobin. In addition, FMN mitigated the bone marrow destruction and restored the CD8 + /CD4 + T cell ratio. Furthermore, in comparison with the control group, the model group showed the decreased levels of Treg cells and the increased levels of Th17 cells. After FMN treatment, there was a significantly increased number of Treg cells and a decreased number of Th17 cells. Additionally, FMN remarkably down-regulated the expression levels of PI3K and Akt proteins in immune-mediated BMF mice. Conclusions FMN alleviates immune-mediated BMF by modulating the balance of Treg/Th17 cells through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.

Abstract Channel-forming discharge (D cf) is an important parameter in river management and reservoir flood regulation. Applying the methods for calculating D cf to reaches downstream reservoirs characterized by drastic changes in water and sediment conditions and long-term scouring status is difficult. Based on the riverbed-shaping principle of sediment-laden water flow, while simultaneously considering the active action of water flow and response of the riverbed, this study proposes a new method for calculating D cf by identifying the extreme value of the suspended sediment-carrying capacity index. The application of this method to the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River showed that after the impoundment of the Three Gorges Reservoir, D cf in this section was reduced by an amplitude between 2500 and 4700 m3/s. The results can be used to guide the operation of the Three Gorges Reservoir and the management of the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, thus providing reference for other river channels downstream of the reservoir.

Lipids are components of cytomembranes that are involved in various biochemical processes. High-altitude hypoxic environments not only affect the body’s energy metabolism, but these environments can also cause abnormal lipid metabolism involved in the hypoxia-induced cognitive impairment. Thus, comprehensive lipidomic profiling of the brain tissue is an essential step toward understanding the mechanism of cognitive impairment induced by hypoxic exposure. In the present study, mice showed reduced new-object recognition and spatial memory when exposed to hypobaric hypoxia for 1 day. Histomorphological staining revealed significant morphological and structural damage to the hippocampal tissue, along with prolonged exposure to hypobaric hypoxia. Dynamic lipidomics of the mouse hippocampus showed a significant shift in both the type and distribution of phospholipids, as verified by spatial lipid mapping. Collectively, a diverse and dynamic lipid composition in mice hippocampus was uncovered, which deepens our understanding of biochemical changes during sustained hypoxic exposure and could provide new insights into the cognitive decline induced by high-altitude hypoxia exposure.

PurposeAddressing the challenges of unclear tumor boundaries and the confusion between cysts and tumors in liver tumor segmentation, this study aims to develop an auto-segmentation method utilizing Gaussian filter with the nnUNet architecture to effectively distinguish between tumors and cysts, enhancing the accuracy of liver tumor auto-segmentation.MethodsFirstly, 130 cases of liver tumorsegmentation challenge 2017 (LiTS2017) were used for training and validating nnU-Net-based auto-segmentation model. Then, 14 cases of 3D-IRCADb dataset and 25 liver cancer cases retrospectively collected in our hospital were used for testing. The dice similarity coefficient (DSC) was used to evaluate the accuracy of auto-segmentation model by comparing with manual contours. ResultsThe nnU-Net achieved an average DSC value of 0.86 for validation set (20 LiTS cases) and 0.82 for public testing set (14 3D-IRCADb cases). For clinical testing set, the standalone nnU-Net model achieved an average DSC value of 0.75, which increased to 0.81 after post-processing with the Gaussian filter (P

Abstract. As one of the most malignant tumors worldwide, lung cancer, fueled by metastasis, has shown rising mortality rates. However, effective clinical strategies aimed at preventing metastasis are lacking owing to its dynamic multi-step, complicated, and progressive nature. Immunotherapy has shown promise in treating cancer metastasis by reversing the immunosuppressive network of the tumor microenvironment. However, drug resistance inevitably develops due to inadequate delivery of immunostimulants and an uncontrolled immune response. Consequently, adverse effects occur, such as autoimmunity, from the non-specific immune activation and non-specific inflammation in off-target organs. Nanocarriers that improve drug solubility, permeability, stability, bioavailability, as well as sustained, controlled, and targeted delivery can effectively overcome drug resistance and enhance the therapeutic effect while reducing adverse effects. In particular, nanomedicine-based immunotherapy can be utilized to target tumor metastasis, presenting a promising therapeutic strategy for lung cancer. Nanotechnology strategies that boost the immunotherapy effect are classified based on the metastatic cascade related to the tumor immune microenvironment; the breaking away of primary tumors, circulating tumor cell dissemination, and premetastatic niche formation cause distant secondary site colonization. In this review, we focus on the opportunities and challenges of integrating immunotherapy with nanoparticle formulation to establish nanotechnology-based immunotherapy by modulating the tumor microenvironment for preclinical and clinical applications in the management of patients with metastatic lung cancer. We also discuss prospects for the emerging field and the clinical translation potential of these techniques.

Abstract Aim To explore factors promoting and hindering resilience in youth with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) based on Kumpfer's resilience framework. Design A descriptive qualitative study design with an interpretative approach was used. Methods Participants consisted of 10 youths with IBD from a tertiary hospital in Beijing (China) recruited using the purposive sampling method. Data were collected by semi‐structured interviews from December 2020 to March 2021. The directed content analysis was performed for data analysis. Results Both promoting factors and hindering factors could be divided into personal factors and environmental factors. Thirteen themes were identified. The promoting factors included acceptance of illness, strict self‐management, previous treatment experience, life goals, family support, medical support and peer encouragement. Stigma, lack of communication, negative cognition, societal incomprehension, economic pressure and academic and employment pressure were hindering factors. Conclusion Health care professionals need to develop greater awareness of factors, stemming from both the individual and the outside world, that hinder or promote resilience in order to aid young patients with IBD. Building targeted nursing measures to excavate the internal positive quality of patients, provide external support and promote the development of resilience.

In recent years, the accelerated penetration of renewable energy hinders the flexible adjustment of power systems. Customer directrix load (CDL)-based demand response (DR) unlocks the potential flexibilities of inverter air conditioning in industrial or commercial parks and promotes the integration of renewable energy. Although there have been extended researches regarding the inverter air conditioning, most of the them belongs to the offline method, which does not consider the time-varying nature of the air conditioning model parameters. Therefore, this paper proposes the CDL-based DR scheme for the cluster of inverter air conditionings through the online virtual energy storage modeling. First, we propose the online virtual energy storage modeling method leveraging the outputs of online identification of the second-order equivalent thermal parameters (ETP) model. Then, the virtual energy storage characteristics of inverter air conditioners were analyzed by the time decoupling charge and discharge control method. Furthermore, we propose an intraday rolling DR optimization model for the cluster of inverter air conditionings, which overcomes the adversarial factors caused by temporal variability of ETP parameters. We utilize variable frequency air conditioning cluster to participate in the park DR based on customer directrix load (CDL). The case study corroborates the effectiveness of the proposed online virtual energy storage modeling.

Lung cancer is the malignant tumor with the highest morbidity and mortality in China. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the main pathological subtype of lung cancer. On April 13, 2023, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) released the third edition of the 2023 NCCN Oncology Clinical Practice Guidelines: Non-small Cell Lung Cancer, which reflects the latest advances in international lung cancer research. This article will interpret the main updated contents of the new edition of the guidelines, and compare it with the third edition of the NCCN guidelines in 2022, so as to provide references about the diagnosis and treatment of NSCLC for clinical medical personnel in China.

Metastasis is the leading cause of cancer-related death. Despite extensive treatment, the prognosis for patients with metastatic cancer remains poor. In addition to conventional surgical resection, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, various nanobiomaterials have attracted attention for their enhanced antitumor performance and low off-target effects. However, nanomedicines exhibit certain limitations in clinical applications, such as rapid clearance from the body, low biological stability, and poor targeting ability. Biomimetic methods utilize the natural biomembrane to mimic or hybridize nanoparticles and circumvent some of these limitations. Considering the involvement of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment of the metastatic cascade, biomimetic methods using immune cell membranes have been proposed with unique tumor-homing ability and high biocompatibility. In this review, we explore the impact of immune cells on various processes of tumor metastasis. Furthermore, we summarize the synthesis and applications of immune cell membrane-based nanocarriers increasing therapeutic efficacy against cancer metastases via immune evasion, prolonged circulation, enhanced tumor accumulation, and immunosuppression of the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, we describe the prospects and existing challenges in clinical translation.

Abstract Hypoxic environments like those present at high altitudes may negatively affect brain function. Varying levels of hypoxia, whether acute or chronic, are previously shown to impair cognitive function in humans. Assessment and prevention of such cognitive impairment require detection of cognitive changes and impairment using specific cognitive function assessment tools. This paper summarizes the findings of previous research, outlines the methods for cognitive function assessment used at a high altitude, elaborates the need to develop standardized and systematic cognitive function assessment tools for high‐altitude hypoxia environments.

Environmental copper (Cu) contamination is a complex worldwide public health problem. However, information on the effects of Cu pollution on human reproduction is limited. Although our previous studies have indicated that Cu exposure disrupts ovarian folliculogenesis, the underlying mechanism needs to be further explored. In this study, human luteinized ovarian granulosa cells and a rat animal model were used to investigate whether Cu exposure affects ovarian follicle development by inducing apoptosis and to elucidate the possible mechanisms. The results showed that Cu exposure from weaning to sexual maturity significantly decreased the proportion of preantral follicles but increased the proportion of atretic follicles (P

BackgroundThere are various methods for teaching surgery to undergraduate students. Lecture-based learning (LBL) is a teacher-centered approach that comprehensively, accurately, and systematically conveys knowledge. Team-based, case-based, and problem-based learning methods are student-centered approaches that increase student enthusiasm and subject-related motivation. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted conventional methods for teaching surgery to undergraduate students and its impact continues even today. This research investigates a variety of surgical teaching strategies and suggests optimal strategies for undergraduate students, especially within the context of the COVID-19 crisis.MethodsVarious teaching methods in undergraduate medical education that have emerged over the last 5 years are reviewed and analyzed, specifically those used for surgical training during the COVID-19 pandemic.ResultsTraditional in-person teaching methods have been replaced by novel approaches that increase efficiency, including social media adoption, simulation-based training, flipped-classroom concepts, and “Hand as Foot” teaching. However, traditional and novel approaches can be combined to teach students the fundamentals of science and basic surgical skills, which include incision, suturing and drainage, and chest tube insertion. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages under certain circumstances.ConclusionSeveral alternative teaching strategies and a combination of methods can complement traditional face-to-face learning, promoting the successful dissemination of academic knowledge and the improvement of clinical surgical skills in terms of objectivity, time-efficiency, and feasibility. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the learning context can provide a reference for future teaching in response to unavoidable emergencies.

Human activities have severely altered the Yangtze River (Changjiang) Estuary’s pattern, beach-trough shape, and delta in recent decades. Existing research has studied the sediment “source–sink” relationship between the Yangtze River mainstream and estuary using gauged suspended sediment data. This method overestimated the decline in the suspended sediment concentration in the estuary, as riverbed scouring or deposition have not filtered out amounts related to sand mining or waterway dredging. This study took the Yangtze River Basin as the research subject and used spot observed runoff, sediment, and riverbed topography data gathered between 1980 and 2020 to analyze the sediment trapping effect of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) and study the “source-sink” relationship of suspended sediment transport in the middle-lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The Yangtze Estuary Delta is dominated by scouring, which shows an increasing trend. During the operation of the TGR (2003–2020), the suspended sediment load entering the Yangtze Estuary from the Yangtze River mainstream decreased by 68% compared to the amount prior to operation commencing (1960–2002). However, studies have found that there are still large amounts of bottom sand with riverbed load movement characteristics after the operation of the Three Gorges Project and that riverbed souring of the downstream dam has increased the degree of deposition recharge. The amount of sediment in the Yangtze Estuary decreased between 2003 and 2018 compared with the period 1981 to 2002, with an annual decrease of 16.9%. The cumulative deposition of the Yichang–Datong and Datong–Xuliujing reaches from 1981–2002 was 3.13×108 m3 and 1.60×108 m3, respectively, and cumulative scouring from 2002–2018 was 28.52×108 m3 and 16.01×108 m3. This study concluded that even if the suspended sediment load entering the estuary decreased significantly after the operation of the TGR, the riverbed in the middle-lower reaches of the Yangtze River has gradually transformed from the “sink” of sediment deposition to the “source” of sediment supply.

IntroductionThe number of overweight patients with gastric cancer (GC) is increasing, and no previous study has compared laparoscopic gastrectomy (LG) and robotic gastrectomy (RG) in obese patients with GC. To investigate the perioperative and oncologic outcomes of RG and LG in obese GC patients, we performed a meta-analysis of propensity matched scores and retrospective studies to compare the perioperative parameters, oncologic findings, and short-term postoperative outcomes between the two groups.MethodsThis study was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. A search was performed on PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register to identify eligible propensity matched scores and retrospective studies conducted and published before December 2022. Data on perioperative and oncological outcomes were included in the meta-analysis.ResultsOverall, we identified 1 propensity score match study and 5 randomized control trials of RG and LG, enrolling a total of 718 patients (197 and 521 patients received RG and LG, respectively). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of complications, bleeding, or lymph node dissection. Of note, RG had a longer procedure time (P = 0.03), earlier oral intake (P = 0.0010), shorter hospital stay (P = 0.0002), and shorter time to defecation (P < 0.00001).ConclusionsThis meta-analysis concluded that patients in the RG group had shorter hospital stays, earlier postoperative feeding, and earlier postoperative ventilation; however, no differences were found in blood loss, number of lymph nodes removed, or overall complications. RG is an effective, safe, and promising treatment for obese patients with GC, compensating for the shortcomings of laparoscopy and allowing for less trauma and faster recovery.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022298967.

Cholangiocarcinoma is characterized by a poor prognosis with limited treatment and management options. Chemotherapy using gemcitabine with cisplatin is the only available first-line therapy for patients with advanced cholangiocarcinoma, although it offers only palliation and yields a median survival of < 1 year. Recently there has been a resurgence of immunotherapy studies focusing on the ability of immunotherapy to inhibit cancer growth by impacting the tumor microenvironment. Based on the TOPAZ-1 trial, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved the combination of durvalumab and gemcitabine with cisplatin as the first-line treatment of cholangiocarcinoma. However, immunotherapy, like immune checkpoint blockade, is less effective in cholangiocarcinoma than in other types of cancer. Although several factors such as the exuberant desmoplastic reaction are responsible for cholangiocarcinoma treatment resistance, existing literature on cholangiocarcinoma cites the inflammatory and immunosuppressive environment as the most common factor. However, mechanisms activating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment contributing to cholangiocarcinoma drug resistance are complicated. Therefore, gaining insight into the interplay between immune cells and cholangiocarcinoma cells, as well as the natural development and evolution of the immune tumor microenvironment, would provide targets for therapeutic intervention and improve therapeutic efficacy by developing multimodal and multiagent immunotherapeutic approaches of cholangiocarcinoma to overcome the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this review, we discuss the role of the inflammatory microenvironment-cholangiocarcinoma crosstalk and reinforce the importance of inflammatory cells in the tumor microenvironment, thereby highlighting the explanatory and therapeutic shortcomings of immunotherapy monotherapy and proposing potentially promising combinational immunotherapeutic strategies.

Anti-drug antibody (ADA) positivity is correlated with disease relapse risk when treated with monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapeutics. ADA evaluation can assist with interpreting pharmacokinetic, pharmacological, and toxicology results. Here, we established an ADA assay based on two steps of acid dissociation combined with a bridging immunoassay to provide a comprehensive validation strategy. The three-tiered sample analysis process included screening, confirmation, and titration assays using therapeutic HLX26 (targeting lymphocyte activation gene-3 [LAG-3]) as an example. The cut points were determined by testing 50 individual normal human serum samples, including screening cut point (SCP) (SNR: 1.08), confirmatory cut point (CCP) (% inhibition: 12.65), and titration cut point (TCP) (sample-to-noise ratio [SNR]: 1.17). The assay sensitivity, low positive control (LPC), and high positive control (HPC) titer acceptable range were also set up as 33.0 ng/mL, 41.0 ng/mL, and 320–1280, respectively. After full validation, both the intra-assay and inter-assay precision testing passed with coefficient of variations (CVs)

Abstract Supplementation with estradiol (E2) is routinely used in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles and embryo age plays an important role in conceiving. This study was to compare the effects of serum E2 levels on pregnancy outcomes between cleavage- and blastocyst-stage FET cycles using hormone replacement therapy. A total of 776 FET cycles (669 couples) performed from January 2016 to December 2019 were included in the present retrospective cohort study. Regarding cleavage-stage embryo transfers, E2 levels on progesterone initiation day were significantly lower in the ongoing pregnancy/live birth (OP/LB) group than in the non-OP/LB group (214.75 ± 173.47 vs. 253.20 ± 203.30 pg/ml; P = 0.023). In addition, there were downward trends in implantation, clinical pregnancy and OP/LB rates with increasing E2 levels. However, in blastocyst-stage embryo transfers, such trends were not observed, and E2 levels were not significant difference between the OP/LB group and the non-OP/LB group (201.66 ± 182.14 vs. 197.89 ± 212.83 pg/ml; P = 0.884). The results suggests that elevated progesterone-initiation-day E2 levels may negatively affect pregnancy outcomes during artificial cleavage-stage embryo transfers. However, it is not necessary to monitor E2 levels when transferring blastocysts in artificial FET cycles.

The p53 tumor suppressor gene is frequently mutated in liver cancer. Here the authors show that restoration of p53 expression with a mRNA nanoparticle platform elicits anti-tumor immune responses and promotes response to immune checkpoint blockade in preclinical models of p53-null hepatocellular carcinoma.

IntroductionMastitis is one of the most serious diseases affecting dairy farming, causing huge economic losses worldwide. Streptococcus agalactiae is the main pathogenic bacterium of contagious mastitis and can deliver a devastating blow to a farm's economy. Rapid detection is the key to disease control.MethodsIn this study, a rapid detection method for S. agalactiae was established. This method combines filter paper extraction, multienzyme isothermal rapid amplification (MIRA), and lateral flow dipsticks (LFD). To simplify the extraction procedure, we designed a disposable extraction device (DED). First, DED performance was evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and then the lysis formula and extraction time were optimized. Second, this study compared the extraction performance of a filter paper and an automatic nucleic acid extraction instrument. After screening primers, MIRA for S. agalactiae was established and combined with LFD. Specificity and sensitivity were evaluated after optimizing the reaction conditions.ResultsThe results showed that the lowest extraction line for DED was 0.01–0.001 ng/μl. In the specificity study, 12 different bacteria were tested, and only S. agalactiae was found to be positive. In the sensitivity study, seven dilution gradients were established, and the lowest detection line was 3.52 × 102 CFU/ml.DiscussionIn summary, the method established in this study does not require laboratory equipment and is suitable for on-site detection. The entire method takes only 15 min, is low in cost, has high precision and low technical requirements for operators, which is in contrast with the high cost and cumbersome operation of traditional methods, and is suitable for on-site testing in areas with limited facilities.

When ascending to high altitude, it is a rigorous challenge to people who living in the low altitude area to acclimatize to hypoxic environment. Hypoxia exposure can cause dramatic disturbances of metabolism. This longitudinal cohort study was conducted to delineate the plasma metabolomics profile following exposure to altitude environments and explore potential metabolic changes after return to low altitude area. 25 healthy volunteers living in the low altitude area (Nor; 40m) were transported to high altitude (HA; 3,650m) for a 7-day sojourn before transported back to the low altitude area (HAP; 40m). Plasma samples were collected on the day before ascending to HA, the third day on HA(day 3) and the fourteenth day after returning to low altitude(14 day) and analyzed using UHPLC-MS/MS tools and then the data were subjected to multivariate statistical analyses. There were 737 metabolites were obtained in plasma samples with 133 significantly changed metabolites. We screened 13 differential metabolites that were significantly changed under hypoxia exposure; enriched metabolic pathways under hypoxia exposure including tryptophan metabolism, purine metabolism, regulation of lipolysis in adipocytes; We verified and relatively quantified eight targeted candidate metabolites including adenosine, guanosine, inosine, xanthurenic acid, 5-oxo-ETE, raffinose, indole-3-acetic acid and biotin for the Nor and HA group. Most of the metabolites recovered when returning to the low altitude area, however, there were still 6 metabolites that were affected by hypoxia exposure. It is apparent that high-altitude exposure alters the metabolic characteristics and two weeks after returning to the low altitude area a small portion of metabolites was still affected by high-altitude exposure, which indicated that high-altitude exposure had a long-term impact on metabolism. This present longitudinal cohort study demonstrated that metabolomics can be a useful tool to monitor metabolic changes exposed to high altitude, providing new insight in the attendant health problem that occur in response to high altitude.

Abstract Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide. A comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms of this disorder is critical for the therapy of MDD. In this study, it is observed that deubiquitinase Mysm1 is induced in the brain tissues from patients with major depression and from mice with depressive behaviors. The genetic silencing of astrocytic Mysm1 induced an antidepressant‐like effect and alleviated the osteoporosis of depressive mice. Furthermore, it is found that Mysm1 knockdown led to increased ATP production and the activation of p53 and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). Pifithrin α (PFT α) and Compound C, antagonists of p53 and AMPK, respectively, repressed ATP production and reversed the antidepressant effect of Mysm1 knockdown. Moreover, the pharmacological inhibition of astrocytic Mysm1 by aspirin relieved depressive‐like behaviors in mice. The study reveals, for the first time, the important function of Mysm1 in the brain, highlighting astrocytic Mysm1 as a potential risk factor for depression and as a valuable target for drug discovery to treat depression.

Abstract The use of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) using antibodies against programmed death receptor (PD)-1, PD ligand (PD-L)-1, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) has redefined the therapeutic landscape in solid tumors, including skin, lung, bladder, liver, renal, and breast tumors. However, overall response rates to ICB therapy remain limited in PD-L1-negative patients. Thus, rational and effective combination therapies will be needed to address ICB treatment resistance in these patients, as well as in PD-L1-positive patients who have progressed under ICB treatment. DNA damage repair inhibitors (DDRis) may activate T-cell responses and trigger inflammatory cytokines release and eventually immunogenic cancer cell death by amplifying DNA damage and generating immunogenic neoantigens, especially in DDR-defective tumors. DDRi may also lead to adaptive PD-L1 upregulation, providing a rationale for PD-L1/PD-1 blockade. Thus, based on preclinical evidence of efficacy and no significant overlapping toxicity, some ICB/DDRi combinations have rapidly progressed to clinical testing in breast and ovarian cancers. Here, we summarize the available clinical data on the combination of ICB with DDRi agents for treating breast and ovarian cancers and discuss the mechanisms of action and other lessons learned from translational studies conducted to date. We also review potential biomarkers to select patients most likely to respond to ICB/DDRi combination therapy.

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most malignant lung cancer with the highest mortality. At present, the first-line standard treatment is still based on Etoposide and Platinum chemotherapy. However, for SCLC that progresses after first-line therapy, the treatment options are still very limited. Since the molecular mechanism of first-line drug resistance of SCLC is still unclear, and the precision medicine strategy after first-line drug resistance is still in the pre-clinical stage. The proportion of secondary biopsy and genetic testing is very low after the progress of first-line treatment of SCLC. In this study, we report a case of a middle-aged woman who was first diagnosed with SCLC. Adenocarcinoma with sensitive gene mutations and repeated changes of small cell carcinoma were detected by multiple biopsies during the course of the disease, suggesting that the patient may be a special subtype of SCLC - mixed SCLC (M-SCLC). In this case, the patient has been treated with radiotherapy and chemotherapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy successively, and the survival time has reached 2 years and 8 months. Through the case report and literature review retrospectively, this study aimed to explore the part patients may start to present hybrid histopathologic types or tissue type change after treatment of SCLC. Biopsy pathologic histology and genetic testing is necessary after disease progression to look for potential therapeutic targets, so as to give precise treatment based on molecular markers detection results and provide the patient with the benefit of survival for as long as possible.

Abstract Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive, degenerative, and terminal disease without cure. There is an urgent need for a new strategy to treat AD. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of intermittent hypoxic treatment (IHT) on cognitive functions in a mouse model of AD and unravel the mechanism of action of IHT. Methods Six-month-old APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) male mice were exposed to hypoxic environment (14.3% O2) 4 h/day for 14 days or 28 days. Cognitive functions were measured by Morris water maze test after either 14 days or 42 days of interval. Thereafter the distribution of amyloid plaque and microglial activation were determined by mouse brain immunohistochemistry, while the amyloid beta (Aβ) and inflammatory cytokines were measured by ELISA and Western Blot. Microarray was used for studying gene expressions in the hippocampus. Results IHT for 14 days or 28 days significantly improved the spatial memory ability of the 6-month-old APP/PS1 mice. The memory improvement by 14 days IHT lasted to 14 days, but not to 42 days. The level of Aβ plaques and neurofilament accumulations was reduced markedly after the IHT exposure. IHT reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 levels, and β-secretase cleavage of APP processing which implies reduced Aβ production. Microarray analysis revealed a large number of genes in the hippocampus were significantly altered which are known to be metabolism-regulated genes. Conclusions This study provides evidence of the beneficial effect of IHT on the progression of AD by alleviating memory impairment, reducing Aβ accumulation and inflammation in the brain. IHT can be developed as a novel measure to relieve the progression of AD by targeting multiple pathways in the AD pathogenesis.

Neuroinflammation is a common pathogenetic sign of depression and is closely linked to the development of depression. Many clinical anti-inflammatory drugs act as antidepressants by reducing the neuroinflammatory response. Previous research found that gypenosides and their bioactive compound gypenoside-14 (GP-14) had neuroprotective effects against hypoxia-induced injury and reduced neuroinflammation-related high-altitude cerebral edema. Here we investigated the effects of GP-14 on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced depression-like behavior model. LPS (0.5 mg/kg) was injected into mice intraperitoneally for 7 consecutive days to induce depression-like behavior, which is considered a model for the exacerbation of depression. GP-14 in the amount of 100 mg/kg was simultaneously administered by gavage for 7 days. In the LPS-induced depression model, GP-14 not only attenuated depression-like behavior but also improved the anxiety-like behavior of the mice. Additionally, GP-14 treatment mitigated learning and cognitive decline in depressed mice. ELISA and immunofluorescence staining results revealed that GP-14 inhibited the upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and suppressed the activation of astrocytes induced with LPS, indicating its potent anti-inflammatory effect. GP-14 pretreatment in C8 cells and primary astrocytes can inhibit the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and downregulate the levels of pro-inflammatory factors. In summary, our findings showed that GP-14 had significant anti-inflammation and anti-depression properties; thus, GP-14 could be a promising lead compound for treating depression.

Abstract Several immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs) capable of overcoming the immunosuppressive roles of the tumor immune microenvironment have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as front-line treatments of various tumor types. However, due to the considerable heterogeneity of solid tumor cells, inhibiting one target will only influence a portion of the tumor cells. One way to enhance the tumor-killing efficiency is to develop a multiagent therapeutic strategy targeting different aspects of tumor biology and the microenvironment to provide the maximal clinical benefit for patients with late-stage disease. One such strategy is the administration of anti-PD1, an ICB, in combination with the humanized monoclonal antibody bevacizumab, an anti-angiogenic therapy, to patients with recurrent/metastatic malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma, metastatic renal cell carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and uterine cancer. Radiotherapy (RT), a critical component of solid cancer management, has the capacity to prime the immune system for an adaptive antitumor response. Here, we present an overview of the most recent published data in preclinical and clinical studies elucidating that RT could further potentiate the antitumor effects of immune checkpoint and angiogenesis dual blockade. In addition, we explore opportunities of triple combinational treatment, as well as discuss the challenges of validating biomarkers and the management of associated toxicity.

In recent years, the operation of cascade reservoirs in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River led by the Three Gorges Reservoir has significantly changed the low water level of Dongting Lake, which has had an adverse impact on the water resources and ecological security in the lake area. As a result, the low water level situation of Dongting Lake is drawing more and more attention. Based on the abundant and long-term daily observation data of Dongting Lake and main stream of the Yangtze River, the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics of low water level in the Dongting Lake area since the 1950s were analyzed in this study, especially during the storage period of the Three Gorges Reservoir. In addition, the influence of the jacking effect of the Yangtze River on Dongting Lake was also discussed to analyze the impact of the Three Gorges Reservoir. The results show that the annual minimum water level in the Dongting Lake area over the years generally occurs from January to February and December. Since it is not within the storage period of the Three Gorges Reservoir, it is not affected by the Three Gorges Reservoir. However, the average water level in September and October during the main storage period of the Three Gorges Reservoir has significantly reduced, and the closer it is to the main stream of the Yangtze River, the greater the influence is. In recent years, affected by the advance of the impounding period, the average water level has decreased further in September. In addition, the low water level of Dongting Lake is obviously affected by the jacking effect of the main stream of the Yangtze River. After the impoundment of the Three Gorges Reservoir, the water surface slope of the Dongting Lake area has decreased, while that of the main stream of the Yangtze River has increased. This has strengthened the jacking effect of the main stream. The research results can provide reference for the solution of water resource and ecological crises in the Dongting Lake area.

Gastric cancer (GC) is a common malignant tumor, and patients with GC have a low survival rate due to limited effective treatment methods. Angiogenesis and immune evasion are two key processes in GC progression, and they act synergistically to promote tumor progression. Tumor vascular normalization has been shown to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, which in turn may be improved through enhanced immune stimulation. Therefore, it may be interesting to identify synergies between immunomodulatory agents and anti-angiogenic therapies in GC. This strategy aims to normalize the tumor microenvironment through the action of the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor while stimulating the immune response through immunotherapy and prolonging the survival of GC patients.

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy represents a major breakthrough in cancer treatment, and it has achieved unprecedented success in hematological malignancies, especially in relapsed/refractory (R/R) B cell malignancies. At present, CD19 and BCMA are the most common targets in CAR-T cell therapy, and numerous novel therapeutic targets are being explored. However, the adverse events related to CAR-T cell therapy might be serious or even life-threatening, such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS), CAR-T-cell-related encephalopathy syndrome (CRES), infections, cytopenia, and CRS-related coagulopathy. In addition, due to antigen escape, the limited CAR-T cell persistence, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, a considerable proportion of patients relapse after CAR-T cell therapy. Thus, in this review, we focus on the progress and challenges of CAR-T cell therapy in hematological malignancies, such as attractive therapeutic targets, CAR-T related toxicities, and resistance to CAR-T cell therapy, and provide some practical recommendations.

The main flow migration in the middle Yangtze River occurs in most river sections and is affected by factors such as incoming water and sediment, riverbed boundaries, and channel shapes, leading to a complex riverbed evolution. Revealing the controlling factors and analyzing the developmental trends are important for addressing the adverse ecological impacts caused by these changes. Based on a large amount of observational data since the impoundment of the Three Gorges Reservoir, the characteristics of the main flow migration in the middle Yangtze River under different flow conditions were analyzed, and its correlation with the nodes and bars at the inlet, the plane shape of the river, and riverbed morphology were determined to identify the key controlling factors. The results showed that it is characterized by the displacement of the main flow zone during the middle-flow period. The key factors controlling the main flow migration include the deflecting action of the nodes and sidebars at the inlet, relaxation of the channel plane shape, and resistance difference caused by the riverbed morphology between the branches. The trend analysis suggests that the main flow migration in the middle Yangtze River may become more frequent after the operation of the cascade reservoirs in the future and may threaten the ecological environment.

Purkinje cells (PCs), as a unique type of neurons output from the cerebellar cortex, are essential for the development and physiological function of the cerebellum. However, the intricate mechanisms underlying the maintenance of Purkinje cells are unclear. The O-GlcNAcylation (O-GlcNAc) of proteins is an emerging regulator of brain function that maintains normal development and neuronal circuity. In this study, we demonstrate that the O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) in PCs maintains the survival of PCs. Furthermore, a loss of OGT in PCs induces severe ataxia, extensor rigidity and posture abnormalities in mice. Mechanistically, OGT regulates the survival of PCs by inhibiting the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). These data reveal a critical role of O-GlcNAc signaling in the survival and maintenance of cerebellar PCs.

Abstract Background and aim Human milk has potential protective effects against bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). However, studies on the association between the dose of human milk and BPD in China are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the dose-dependent effects of human milk on BPD and other neonatal morbidities in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Methods This retrospective cohort study of preterm infants was conducted on preterm infants of gestational age ≤ 34 weeks and birth weight

In this study, the CAR-like multivalent aptamer nanoparticles (X-polymers) were assembled with the dimer of murine CD28 RNA aptamer (CD28Apt7), the tetramer of CTLA-4 (cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4) RNA aptamer (Del60), and a folic acid labeled ssDNA fragment in a stable nucleic acid three-way junction scaffold (3WJ). Results showed that the X-polymers could recognize both the mCD28 and mCTLA-4 molecules. Confocal imaging and flow cytometry assays showed that the X-polymers could target both T cells and B16 cells in vitro. With the first costimulatory signals provided by the CD3 antibodies, the X-polymers could increase T cell proliferation and reverse the inhibitory effect of interleukin-2 (IL-2) secreting caused by exogenous B7.1 molecules on T cells in vitro. Results of our study also showed that X-polymers could inhibit mouse melanoma B16 cell growth both in vitro and in vivo. Our study demonstrated for the first time that the multivalent aptamer nanoparticle-activated T cells could fulfill the function of CAR-T, which promised a novel approach to developing a multi-functional design of aptamer drugs with potential CAR-like characteristics to enhance the safety of CAR-T cell immunotherapy.

Context Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound extracted from the rhizome of the tropical plant Curcuma longa L. (Zingiberaceae), has been considered as a cancer chemopreventive drug by American National Cancer Institute. Objective To examine the effect of curcumin on acute monocytic leukaemia SHI-1 cells in vivo. Materials and methods The SHI-1 cells (1 × 106 cells in 0.1 mL PBS) were injected subcutaneously into the right flanks of the female SCID mice. Curcumin dissolved in olive oil (15 and 30 mg/kg) was administered (i.p.) to mice once a day for 15 days while the control group received olive oil injection. Tumour proliferation and apoptosis were examined by PCNA, TUNEL and cleaved caspase-3 staining. The expression of MAPK, NF-κB, MMP9, MMP2 and vimentin were confirmed by RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry or western blotting. Results Administration of curcumin significantly inhibited tumour growth, as the tumour weight decreased from 0.67 g (control) to 0.47 g (15 mg/kg) and 0.35 g (30 mg/kg). Curcumin inhibited the expression of PCNA and increased the degree of TUNEL and cleaved caspase-3 staining in tumour tissue. The results of western blotting showed that curcumin treatment inhibited NF-κB and ERK signalling while activating p38 and JNK. Moreover, curcumin attenuated the mRNA transcription and protein expression of MMP2 and MMP9. Curcumin also suppressed the level of vimentin. Discussion and conclusions Our study demonstrates that curcumin can inhibit the growth and invasion of human monocytic leukaemia in vivo, suggesting the possible use of curcumin for anti-metastasis in leukaemia and the value of determining its unique target.

Human activities and climate change have profoundly changed the hydrological and geomorphological evolutionary processes and trends of rivers and lakes, which, in turn, has affected the utilization of their waterway depth. This study chose the Dongting Lake–Jingjiang confluence of the Changjiang River (Yangtze Rvier), since the operation of the Three Gorges Project, the split ratio of water and the sediment distribution of the three outlets of Dongting Lake—that is, Songzikou, Taipigkou, and Ouchikou—have continued to decrease. Along with the decreasing flow of Dongting Lake, the relative increase in the runoff of the Jingjiang reach and the increase in riverbed erosion intensity have increased the relative height difference between Jingjiang and Dongting Lake, intensifying the reduction of the split ratio of water and the sediment distribution of the three outlets. The riverbed erosion of the Jingjiang reach has created a promising foundation for an increase in the waterway dimensions. However, the length of the reach not meeting the requirements of 4.5× 200 m (water depth × width) is 18.4 km, of which the length in the river-lake confluence is 12.6 km, accounting for 68.35% of the total length of obstructed navigation. Furthermore, at the reach (Zhicheng–Dabujie reach) affected by the first outlet (Songzikou), a 4.5-m flume has been formed, but its width is less than 200 m. Moreover, the “steep slope and rapid current” phenomenon is clear, and it affects the safety of ships. At the reach (Taipingkou reach) affected by the second outlet, the shrinkage of the bottomland, and the intersecting braided river channels make the low-flow routes unstable, the water depth being less than 4.5 m. At the reach (Tianxingzhou–Ouchikou reach) affected by the third outlet, the shoreline of the reach has collapsed and retreated significantly. Additionally, beach erosion and the downstream movement of cut banks have caused the downstream waterway width at the reach to be reduced to less than 200 m or formed shoals with a water depth of less than 4.5 m. Owing to the jacking effect of the lake’s outflow backwater, the flow rate of the reach (Xiongjiazhou–Chenglingji reach) affected by the confluence of Dongting Lake decreased, creating a shoal with a water depth of less than 4.5 m in the navigation waterway. The results of this study have guiding significance for understanding the changes of channel conditions and the improvement of channel scale in the intersection area of rivers and lakes.

The histological transformation from lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) to lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and p. N771delinsGF mutations in EGFR exon 20 (ex20) are exceedingly rare in non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). EGFR ex20 mutations are insensitive to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in NSCLC. Here, we present a 76-year-old male smoker harboring LUAD with a novel p. N771delinsGF deletion/insertion mutation in EGFR ex20 transdifferentiating from advanced LUSC after chemoradiotherapy. The patient presented reduced hydrothorax and relieved tightness with the treatment of nivolumab plus docetaxel and carboplatin after the failure of second-line chemotherapy. The case highlights the importance of rebiopsy and molecular retesting after the progression of lung cancer and supports the idea that the combination of immune checkpoint blockade and chemotherapy may be an attractive option for patients with EGFR ex20 mutations associated with LUSC–LUAD transformation.

Over the years, there has been a high demand for developing new safe and effective drug carriers for cancer therapy. Emerging studies have indicated that exosomes can serve as potent therapeutic carriers since they offer low immunogenicity, high stability, innate and acquired targetability, and the stimulation of anti-cancer immune responses. Yet, the development of exosome-based drug delivery systems remains challenging due to their heterogeneity, low yield, and limited drug loading efficiency. Herein, we summarized the current application of exosomes derived from different cells as drug carriers in anti-cancer therapy in vitro and in vivo. We also discussed the challenges and prospects of exosome-based drug delivery systems in cancer therapy.

In order to compare the microscopic ultrastructure of eutopic endometrium and normal endometrium in patients with endometriosis, to study the specific pathogenesis of endometriosis. In this paper, on the basis of using B-ultrasound technology, several patients with endometriosis were subjected to B-ultrasound to observe the ultrastructure of the eutopic uterine endometrium and compared with the pictures of normal endometrium to carry out the specific analysis between the two ultrastructural comparisons. This study is based on the analysis of B-ultrasound images of patients with endometriosis, compares the difference between their ultrastructure and normal human body, and conducts specific pathological diagnosis and analysis to find out the impact of the endometrium in place. The specific factors of the occurrence of lesions and the corresponding treatment methods are proposed. The experimental results show that the ultrastructure of endometriosis eutopic endometrium is different from that of normal endometrium. The microvilli of secretory cells and the cilia of ciliated cells of the former are abnormally increased and lengthened, and they are superior to B-ultrasound technology. The success rate of the examination is 93.75%, which can play an important role in the specific examination process of patients with endometriosis, as one of the actual indicators of detection. Under the electron microscope, microvilli are tiny finger-like protrusions extending from the cell membrane and the cytoplasm on the free surface of the cell, surrounded by the cell membrane and perpendicular to the cell membrane surface.

Given combined efforts of neuroscience and immunology, increasing evidence has revealed the critical roles of the immune system in regulating homeostasis and disorders of the central nervous system (CNS). Microglia have long been considered as the only immune cell type in parenchyma, while at the interface between CNS and the peripheral (meninges, choroid plexus, and perivascular space), embryonically originated border-associated macrophages (BAMs) and multiple surveilling leukocytes capable of migrating into and out of the brain have been identified to function in the healthy brain. Hypoxia-induced neuroinflammation is the key pathological procedure that can be detected in healthy people at high altitude or in various neurodegenerative diseases, during which a very thin line between a beneficial response of the peripheral immune system in maintaining brain homeostasis and a pathological role in exacerbating neuroinflammation has been revealed. Here, we are going to focus on the role of the peripheral immune system and its crosstalk with CNS in the healthy brain and especially in hypobaric or ischemic hypoxia-associated neuroinflammation.

BackgroundPrimary pulmonary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) is a rare type of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Currently, anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1)/programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) has become an important treatment for NSCLC. Anti-human PD-1 monoclonal antibodies, such as nivolumab, significantly prolong the survival time of patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma and lung squamous cell carcinoma. However, there are few reports on the therapeutic effect, drug resistance mechanism, and strategies to overcome resistance to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 treatment in advanced pulmonary LELC. We report the case of a patient with advanced pulmonary LELC harboring fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR)3 gene amplification that showed resistance to nivolumab. After treatment with anlotinib, a multi-targeted small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor, the patient’s resistance to nivolumab was reversed. She achieved long-term disease remission with a combination of anlotinib and nivolumab treatment.Case PresentationA 68-year-old woman was diagnosed with stage IVA pulmonary LELC. After multiple-line chemotherapy, her disease progressed. Since the PD-L1 expression rate of the patient was 90%, nivolumab was administered. However, the therapeutic effect of nivolumab was not ideal; the disease continued to progress, and a new cervical lymph node metastasis appeared. FGFR3 gene amplification was detected in lymph node metastasis. Based on this gene abnormality, we added anlotinib to the treatment. After two cycles of anlotinib and nivolumab, the metastatic focus of the patient was significantly reduced. The patient continued to receive this combined treatment and achieved remission for more than 15 months.ConclusionPulmonary LELC with FGFR3 gene amplification may not respond well to nivolumab monotherapy. The combination of anlotinib and nivolumab can reverse the resistance to nivolumab in pulmonary LELC with FGFR3 gene amplification.

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to prospectively investigate the value of real-time ultrasound elastography (RTE) for the diagnosis of liver fibrosis (LF) in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), to correlate the elastography findings with the histologic stage of LF and to compare RTE findings with those from noninvasive tests of LF calculated using laboratory blood parameters. Methods Liver biopsies, laboratory blood testing, and RTE were performed in 91 patients with CHB. The LF index (LFI) was calculated using a multiple linear regression equation involving 11 parameters, which represented the degree of LF. The higher the LFI is, the greater the degree of LF. Results The mean aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) and the mean fibrosis index based on four factors (FIB-4) were significantly different for the 5 stages of LF, respectively. The APRI (r = 0.43, P = 0.006), FIB-4 (r = 0.51, P = 0.012) and LFI (r = 0.562, P = 0.004) were correlated with the stages of LF. For discriminating stage F0 from F1, only the LFI had significant power (P = 0.026) for predicting stage F1. For discriminating stage F4 from F3, only the LFI had statistically significant power (P = 0.024) in predicting stage F4. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of the LFI for diagnosing significant, advanced LF and liver cirrhosis were significantly higher than those of the APRI and FIB-4, and the LFI had better sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions The LFI calculated by RTE is reliable for the assessment of LF in patients with CHB and has better discrimination power than the APRI and FIB-4.