Phase I study of trifluridine/tipiracil (TAS-102) plus irinotecan in combination with bevacizumab as a second-line therapy for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.

PURPOSE: This phase I trial is to determine the recommended dose of the TAS-102, irinotecan plus bevacizumab regimen and assess its safety and efficacy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer refractory to fluoropyrimidine and oxaliplatin treatment. METHODS: A 3 + 3 designed dose escalation was performed. Patients were administered TAS-102 (30-35 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1-5) and irinotecan (150-165 mg/m2 on day 1) combined with a fixed dose of bevacizumab (5 mg/kg on day 1) every two weeks. The primary endpoint was the determination of the recommended phase II dose. RESULTS: Eighteen patients were enrolled: 6 at the Level 1 (TAS-102 30 mg/m2 twice daily, irinotecan 150 mg/m2 plus bevacizumab 5 mg/kg), six at the Level 2 (TAS-102 35 mg/m2 twice daily, irinotecan 150 mg/m2 plus bevacizumab 5 mg/kg), and six at the Level 3 (TAS-102 30 mg/m2 twice daily, irinotecan 165 mg/m2 plus bevacizumab 5 mg/kg). Five dose-limiting toxicities occurred: one observed at Level 1 (thrombocytopenia), two at Level 2 (neutropenia and diarrhea), and two at Level 3 (fatigue and neutropenia). The RP2D was established as TAS-102 30 mg/m2 twice daily and irinotecan 150 mg/m2 plus bevacizumab 5 mg/kg. The most frequent grade 3/4 treatment-related adverse events were neutropenia (33.3%), diarrhea (16.7%), and thrombocytopenia (11.1%). No treatment-related death occurred. Two patients (11.1%) experienced partial responses and 14 (77.8%) had stable disease. CONCLUSION: The regimen of TAS-102, irinotecan, and bevacizumab is tolerable with antitumor activity for metastatic colorectal cancer patients refractory to first-line fluoropyrimidines and oxaliplatin treatment.

Investigating the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Carthamus tinctorius L.-derived nanovesicles in atherosclerosis treatment.

BACKGROUND: Carthamus tinctorius L., a traditional herbal medicine used for atherosclerosis (AS), lacks a clear understanding of its therapeutic mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of Carthamus tinctorius L.-derived nanovesicles (CDNVs) in AS treatment. METHODS: CDNVs were isolated and characterized using improved isolation methods. Transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and protein analysis confirmed their morphology, size, and protein composition. Small RNA sequencing was performed to identify the miRNA profile of CDNVs, and bioinformatics analysis was used to determine their potential biological roles. In vivo biodistribution and toxicity studies were conducted in mice to assess the stability and safety of orally administered CDNVs. The anti-atherosclerotic effects of CDNVs were evaluated in ApoE-/- mice through plaque burden analysis. The protective effects of CDNVs on ox-LDL-treated endothelial cells were assessed through proliferation, apoptosis, reactive oxygen species activation, and monocyte adhesion assays. miRNA and mRNA sequencing of CDNV-treated endothelial cells were performed to explore their regulatory effects and potential target genes. RESULTS: CDNVs were successfully isolated and purified from Carthamus tinctorius L. tissue lysates. They exhibited a saucer-shaped or cup-shaped morphology, with an average particle size of 142.6 ± 0.7 nm, and expressed EV markers CD63 and TSG101. CDNVs contained proteins, small RNAs, and metabolites, including the therapeutic compound HSYA. Small RNA sequencing identified 95 miRNAs, with 10 common miRNAs accounting for 72.63% of the total miRNAs. These miRNAs targeted genes involved in cell adhesion, apoptosis, and cell proliferation, suggesting their relevance in cardiovascular disease. Orally administered CDNVs were stable in the gastrointestinal tract, absorbed into the bloodstream, and accumulated in the liver, lungs, heart, and aorta. They significantly reduced the burden of atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE-/- mice and exhibited superior effects compared to HSYA. In vitro studies demonstrated that CDNVs were taken up by HUVECs, promoted proliferation, attenuated ox-LDL-induced apoptosis and ROS activation, and reduced monocyte adhesion. CDNV treatment resulted in significant changes in miRNA and mRNA expression profiles of HUVECs, with enrichment in inflammation-related genes. CXCL12 was identified as a potential direct target of miR166a-3p. CONCLUSION: CDNVs isolated from Carthamus tinctorius L. tissue lysates represent a promising oral therapeutic option for cardiovascular diseases. The delivery of miRNAs by CDNVs regulates inflammation-related genes, including CXCL12, in HUVECs, suggesting their potential role in modulating endothelial inflammation. These findings provide valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of CDNVs and their miRNAs in cardiovascular disease.

Dietary niacin Intake and its association with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates in individuals with metabolic syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Individuals with metabolic syndrome face elevated cardiovascular and mortality risks, and there is ongoing debate regarding the cardiovascular effects of niacin and its impact on the prognosis of metabolic syndrome. EXPOSURE: Levels of dietary niacin intake based on 24-hour dietary recall. METHODS: Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to compare survival status among quartiles of dietary niacin intake. Weighted Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic splines were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality associated with the exposure. RESULTS: This cohort study included 8,744 participants, and during a median follow-up period of 106 months, 1,552 (17.7%) deaths were recorded, with 511 attributed to cardiovascular disease. Kaplan-Meier curves comparing quartiles of dietary niacin intake showed significant differences in both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates (log-rank p < 0.001). In the fully adjusted model, the highest quartile of dietary niacin intake was associated with HRs of 0.68 (95% CI: 0.54, 0.87, P = 0.002) for all-cause mortality and 0.63 (95% CI: 0.39, 0.78, P < 0.001) for cardiovascular mortality. CONCLUSION: The results of this cohort study suggest that higher dietary niacin intake is associated with reduced cardiovascular and all-cause mortality risks in the metabolic syndrome population. Furthermore, there appears to be a dose-response relationship between dietary niacin intake and the risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

LINC00963 Represses Osteogenic Differentiation of hBMSCs via the miR-10b-5p/RAP2A/AKT Axis.

Osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) is important for human bone formation. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical regulators in osteogenic differentiation. This study aimed to explore the function and mechanisms of long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 963 (LINC00963) in affecting osteogenesis. Cell differentiation was assessed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity detection and ALP staining assay. Meanwhile, levels of osteogenic marker genes, including RUNX family transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), osteocalcin (OCN), and osteopontin (OPN), were detected by RT-qPCR and western blot. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured using CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry analysis. RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA pull-down and luciferase reporter assays were used to investigate the interaction between genes. LINC00963 expression was down-regulated in hBMSCs treated with osteogenic induction. LINC00963 overexpression inhibited hBMSCs differentiation, proliferation, and elevated apoptosis. LINC00963 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to interact with miR-10b-5p and thereby regulated the expression level of Ras-related protein Rap-2a (RAP2A). LINC00963 regulated RAP2A to inhibit the level of phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT). LINC00963 inhibited hBMSCs differentiation, proliferation, and elevated apoptosis via the miR-10b-5p/RAP2A/AKT signaling, which might help improve the treatment of osteoporosis.

RHOJ as a novel mechanosensitive modulator of endothelial inflammation.

Physiological high shear stress (HSS), a frictional force generated by flowing blood, is essential for endothelial homeostasis under normal physiological conditions. HSS suppresses atherosclerosis by inhibiting endothelial inflammation. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this process have not been fully elucidated. Here, we report that HSS downregulated the mRNA and protein levels of ras homolog family member J (RHOJ) in endothelial cells (ECs). Silencing endogenous RHOJ expression decreased the mRNA and protein levels of proinflammatory vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular cell adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) in ECs, leading to a reduction in monocyte adhesion to ECs. Conversely, the overexpression of RHOJ had the opposite effect. RNA-sequencing analysis uncovered several differentially expressed genes (such as yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1),heme oxygenase-1 (HO1), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP1)) and pathways (such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, and cell adhesion pathways) as RHOJ targets. Additionally, HSS was observed to alleviate endothelial inflammation by inhibiting RHOJ expression. Finally, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) illustrated that fluid shear stress regulates RHOJ expression in an N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-dependent manner. Mechanistically, the RNA m6A writer, methyltransferase 3 (METTL3), and the RNA m6A readers, YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA-binding protein F 3 (YTHDF3) and YTH N6-methyladenosine RNA-binding protein C 1/2 (YTHDC1/2), are involved in this process. Taken together, our data demonstrate that HSS-induced downregulation of RHOJ contributes to endothelial homeostasis by suppressing endothelial inflammation and that RHOJ inhibition in ECs is a promising therapeutic strategy for endothelial dysfunction.

N6-Methyladenosine Demethylase FTO (Fat Mass and Obesity-Associated Protein) as a Novel Mediator of Statin Effects in Human Endothelial Cells.

BACKGROUND: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays a critical role in various biological processes. However, no study has addressed the role of m6A modification in the statin-induced protection of endothelial cells (ECs). METHODS: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting analyses were used to study the expression of m6A regulatory genes in atorvastatin-treated ECs. Gain- and loss-of-function assays, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation analysis, and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to clarify the function of FTO (fat mass and obesity-associated protein) in ECs. RESULTS: Atorvastatin decreased FTO protein expression in ECs. The knockdown of FTO enhanced the mRNA and protein expression of KLF2 (Kruppel-like factor 2) and eNOS (endothelial NO synthase) but attenuated TNFα (tumor necrosis factor alpha)-induced VCAM-1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule 1) and ICAM-1 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1) expression, as well as the adhesion of monocytes to ECs. Conversely, FTO overexpression significantly upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, downregulated those of KLF2 and eNOS, and strongly attenuated the atorvastatin-mediated induction of KLF2 and eNOS expression. Subsequent investigations demonstrated that KLF2 and eNOS are functionally critical targets of FTO. Mechanistically, FTO interacted with KLF2 and eNOS transcripts and regulated their expression in an m6A-dependent manner. After FTO silencing, KLF2 and eNOS transcripts with higher levels of m6A modification in their 3' untranslated regions were captured by YTHDF3 (YT521-B homology m6A RNA-binding protein 3), resulting in mRNA stabilization and the induction of KLF2 and eNOS protein expression. CONCLUSIONS: FTO might serve as a novel molecular target to modulate endothelial function in vascular diseases.

Identification of Three Cuproptosis-specific Expressed Genes as Diagnostic Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets for Atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic, inflammatory disease characterized by a lipid-driven infiltration of inflammatory cells in large and medium arteries and is considered to be a major underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases. Cuproptosis, a novel form of cell death, is highly linked to mitochondrial metabolism and mediated by protein lipoylation. However, the clinical implication of cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) in atherosclerosis remains unclear. In this study, genes collected from the GEO database intersected with CRGs were identified in atherosclerosis. GSEA, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed for functional annotation. Through the random forest algorithm and the construction of a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, eight selected genes (LOXL2, SLC31A1, ATP7A, SLC31A2, COA6, UBE2D1, CP and SOD1) and a vital cuproptosis-related gene FDX1 were then further validated. Two independent datasets (GSE28829 (N = 29), GSE100927 (N = 104)) were collected to construct the signature of CRGs for validation in atherosclerosis. Consistently, the atherosclerosis plaques showed significantly higher expression of SLC31A1, SLC31A2 and lower expression of SOD1 than the normal intimae. The area under the curve (AUC) of SLC31A1, SLC31A2 and SOD1 performed well for the diagnostic validation in the two datasets. In conclusion, the cuproptosis-related gene signature could serve as a potential diagnostic biomarker for atherosclerosis and may offer novel insights into the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Based on the hub genes, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA and a transcription factor regulation network were ultimately constructed to explore the possible regulatory mechanism in atherosclerosis.

Correction to: Systemic microvascular rarefaction is correlated with dysfunction of late endothelial progenitor cells in mild hypertension: a substudy of EXCAVATION-CHN1.

Upon publication of the original article [1], it was noticed that Jun Tao's affiliation information is not complete. The full affiliation information for Jun Tao can be found below and in the complete affiliation list of this Correction article.

Ampelopsin inhibits high glucose-induced extracellular matrix accumulation and oxidative stress in mesangial cells through activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Oxidative stress plays an important role in diabetic nephropathy (DN), which is a diabetic complication. Ampelopsin (AMP) is a natural flavonoid that has been found to possess antidiabetic and antioxidative activities. However, the effect of AMP on DN remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effect of AMP on glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) exposed to high glucose (HG). We found that AMP improved HG-caused cell viability reduction in MCs. AMP significantly suppressed the intracellular ROS production and expression levels of ROS producing enzymes NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and NOX4. Increased of NOX activity in HG-stimulated MCs was suppressed by AMP. Pretreatment with AMP inhibited extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in HG-stimulated MCs with decreased expression levels of fibronectin (FN) and collagen type IV (Col IV). Furthermore, AMP elevated the expression levels of nuclear Nrf2 and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), as well as increased the mRNA levels of Nrf2-driven genes NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone-1 (NQO-1) and HO-1 in HG-treated MCs. Knockdown of Nrf2 reversed the protective effects of AMP against HG-induced oxidative stress and EMC accumulation in MCs. In conclusion, these findings indicated that AMP protected MCs from HG-induced oxidative damage and ECM accumulation, which might be mediated by Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.

Systemic microvascular rarefaction is correlated with dysfunction of late endothelial progenitor cells in mild hypertension: a substudy of EXCAVATION-CHN1.

BACKGROUND: Hypertension often presents with microvascular rarefaction (MVR), which is closely associated with impaired angiogenesis. Early detection of MVR is essential for systemic assessment in patient with hypertension. We aimed to determine the systemic MVR through both optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and intravital capillaroscopy, and to investigate their respective efficacies and related mechanisms associated with late endothelial progenitor cells (LEPCs) dysfunction. METHODS: Seventy-one hypertensive and sixty-nine age-match normotensive subjects were included in this study. All subjects received intravital capillaroscopy for skin capillary density (SCD) and OCTA for retinal capillary density (RCD) and non-perfused areas (R-NPA). Subsequently, correlation of LEPCs activities and microvascular rarefaction were examined. RESULTS: Compared with normotensive subjects, hypertensive patients had significantly lower RCD [(52.9 ± 2.9)% vs. (57.8 ± 1.6)%, P < 0.01] and higher R-NPA [(0.12 ± 0.07) mm2 vs. (0.053 ± 0.020) mm2, P < 0.01]. SCD correlated positively with RCD but negatively with R-NPA [(RCD: OR = 0.40, 95% CI 0.25-0.67, P < 0.01); (R-NPA: OR = 0.39, 95% CI - 0.0029 to 0.0011, P < 0.01)]. The discriminative powers of RCD performed best (AUC 0.79 versus SCD AUC 0.59, P < 0.001) followed by R-NPA (AUC 0.73 versus SCD AUC 0.59, P < 0.001) for systolic blood pressure. Similar pattern is also found for diastolic blood pressure (RCD AUC 0.80 versus SCD AUC 0.54, P < 0.001; R-NPA AUC 0.77 versus SCD AUC 0.54, P < 0.001). Furthermore, LEPCs tube formation was impaired in hypertensive patients (36.8 ± 2.3 vs. 28 ± 3.7, P < 0.01). After multivariate adjustments, positive correlation existed between RCD or R-NPA with LEPCs tube formation (RCD: ß = 0.64, 95% CI 0.34-0.91, P < 0.01; R-NPA: ß = - 24.67, 95% CI - 43.14 to - 4.63, P < 0.05) but not with SCD (ß = 0.082, 95% CI 0.01-0.18, P = 0.085). CONCLUSION: Compared to intravital capillaroscopy, OCTA is a more precise technique for early detection of hypertensive microvascular rarefaction, which is associated with the fall in LEPC-mediated angiogenesis. Both of OCTA and LEPCs function can help identify hypertension-related capillary abnormality. Trail Registration The trial is a substudy of EXCAVATION-CHN1, registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02817204 (June 26, 2016).

Shear-sensitive microRNA-34a modulates flow-dependent regulation of endothelial inflammation.

Although many studies have described the roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the modulation of the endothelial response to shear stress, the mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Here, we demonstrate that miR-34a expression in endothelial cells was downregulated by atheroprotective physiological high shear stress (HSS), whereas it was upregulated by atheroprone oscillatory shear stress (OSS). Blockade of endogenous miR-34a dramatically decreased basal vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) protein expression levels. Conversely, miR-34a overexpression increased the protein levels of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1, consequently promoting monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. Furthermore, miR-34a overexpression attenuated HSS-mediated suppression of VCAM-1 protein expression on endothelial cells, but promoted HSS-induced ICAM-1 expression. In addition, the OSS induction of endothelial cell VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 was suppressed by using an miR-34a inhibitor, which led to a reduction of monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. Mechanistically, sirtuin 1 overexpression partially prevented miR-34a-induced VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 expression. Subsequent investigation demonstrated that miR-34a increased nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) p65 subunit (also known as RelA) acetylation (on residue Lys310), and silencing NF-κB signaling reduced miR-34a-induced VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 protein expression. These results demonstrate that miR-34a is involved in the flow-dependent regulation of endothelial inflammation.

Cardiovascular risk factors in noise-exposed workers in china: Small area study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether there are changes in cardiovascular risk factors among noise-exposed workers and to explore the possible mechanisms of a long-term noise exposure leading to cardiovascular disease and the sex differences of cardiovascular risk factors in this population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two hundred workers engaged in noise-related work, and a control group of 200 nonnoise-exposed workers hospitalized for occupational health examination were assigned into the study. All workers underwent a medical examination, electrocardiogram recording, blood pressure test, other blood tests, and audiometry. The collected blood was used to detect homocysteine (HCY), renin, angiotensin II, and other markers of cardiovascular risk factors. RESULTS: Our study suggests that the type of work with long-term exposure to noise might pose a cardiovascular risk, as evidenced by associated increases in plasma HCY levels, incidence of type 2 diabetes, and incidence of hypertension. DISCUSSION: Our research also reveals that among male workers, the levels of triglycerides, uric acid, HCY, renin activity, and the incidence of hypertension are higher than female, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol is lower than female workers had. Additionally, the study emphasizes again the importance of weight control for reducing cardiovascular risk. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that noise is a cardiovascular risk factor. Interventions in the work environment could be a preventable and controllable manner for reducing the incidence of cardiovascular disease.

Development of Albumin Coupled, Cholesterol Stabilized, Lipid Nanoemulsion of Methotrexate, and TNF-α Inhibitor for Improved In Vivo Efficacy Against Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Methotrexate (MTX; an anti-folate) and etanercept (ET; a TNF-α inhibitor) are used against arthritis; however, limitations like short biological half-life, low cutaneous absorption, and acidic instability limit their clinical relevance. Therefore, the aim of the investigation was to develop albumin coupled lipid nanoemulsion of MTX and ET for improved efficacy by virtue of their controlled release and specificity at the arthritic site. This emulsion was prepared by high-speed homogenization and stabilized using cholesterol. Lipid nanoemulsion of MTX and ET (MTX+ET-LNE) was coupled with albumin (MTX+ET-ALNE). MTX+ET-ALNE was characterized on the basis of particle size (410 ± 25.4 nm), PDI (0.160), and zeta potential (+38.6 ± 5.6 mV) and evaluated for pH (6.15), drug content (97.7 ± 2.17%), entrapment efficiency (76 ± 4.6%), in vitro release, and in vitro cytotoxicity. About 82.6 ± 9.60% release of MTX+ET was observed in 24 h from the developed MTX+ET-ALNE which may help maintain therapeutic level of drugs in blood at least for one day. No toxicity was observed when Raw 264.7 cells were treated with MTX+ET-ALNE, and no causalities of mice were observed at experimental in vivo dose (10 mg/kg BW) of MTX+ET in MTX+ET-ALNE-treated group. MTX+ET-ALNE treatment has alleviated arthritic scores and inflammatory cytokines level in a very significant manner when compared with MTX+ET-LNE and MTX+ET solutions. MTX+ET-ALNE-treated group restored histological alterations (cartilage/bone erosion, inflammatory cell infiltration, synovial hyperplasia, and narrower joint space) as observed in diseased treated groups. In conclusion, MTX+ET-ALNE can be opted as efficacious and clinically pertinent option to the current medication systems of arthritis.

Islet-1 overexpression in human mesenchymal stem cells promotes vascularization through monocyte chemoattractant protein-3.

The LIM-homeobox transcription factor islet-1 (ISL1) has been proposed to mark a cardiovascular progenitor cell lineage that gives rise to cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells. The aim of this study was to investigate whether forced expression of ISL1 in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) influenced the differentiation capacity and angiogenic properties of hMSCs. The lentiviral vector, EF1α-ISL1, was constructed using the Multisite Gateway System and used to transduce hMSCs. We found that ISL1 overexpression did not alter the proliferation, migration, or survival of hMSCs or affect their ability to differentiate into osteoblasts, adipocytes, cardiomyocytes, or endotheliocytes. However, ISL1-hMSCs differentiated into smooth muscle cells more efficiently than control hMSCs. Furthermore, conditioned medium from ISL1-hMSCs greatly enhanced the survival, migration, and tube-formation ability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro. In vivo angiogenesis assays also showed much more vascular-like structures in the group cotransplanted with ISL1-hMSCs and HUVECs than in the group cotransplanted with control hMSCs and HUVECs. Quantitative RT-PCR and antibody arrays detected monocyte chemoattractant protein-3 (MCP3) at a higher level in conditioned medium from ISL1-hMSCs cultures than in conditioned medium from control hMSCs. Neutralization assays showed that addition of an anti-MCP3 antibody to ISL1-hMSCs-conditioned medium efficiently abolished the angiogenesis-promoting effect of ISL1-hMSCs. Our data suggest that overexpression of ISL1 in hMSCs promotes angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo through increasing secretion of paracrine factors, smooth muscle differentiation ability, and enhancing the survival of HUVECs.

Regulation of microRNA-155 in endothelial inflammation by targeting nuclear factor (NF)-κB P65.

Increasing evidences have illuminated the fundamental role of inflammation in mediating all stages of atherosclerosis. miR-155, a typical multi-functional miRNA, has recently emerged as a novel component of inflammatory signal transduction in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. However, little is known about whether endothelial highly expressed miR-155 can regulate endothelial inflammation-related transcription factors and the predicted role of miR-155 as a negative feedback regulator in endothelial inflammation involved in atherosclerosis. Bioinformatics analysis showed that RELA (nuclear factor-κB p65) is a potential target gene of miR-155 and this was confirmed by a luciferase reporter assay. Our results show that microRNA-155 mediate endothelial inflammation and decrease NFкB p65 and adhesion molecule expression in TNFα-stimulated endothelial cells. Transfection with miR-155 significantly inhibited TNFα-induced monocyte adhesion to endothelium. Inhibition of miR-155 enhanced p65 level and endothelial inflammatory response which was counteracted through the depletion of P65 by Si-P65. On the other hand, knockdown of eNOS, another target of miR-155, while transfecting with miR-155 inhibitor resulted in more significant inflammatory response. miR-155 is highly expressed in TNFα treated HUVECs, deprived of endogenous p65 could reverse TNFα-induced upregulation of miR-155. Thus, TNFα induced miR-155 may serve as a negative feedback regulator in endothelial inflammation involved in atherosclerosis by targeting nuclear transcription factor P65. These results provide a rationale for intervention of intracellular microRNA as possible anti-atherosclerotic targets.

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes mortality burden: Predictions for 2030 based on Bayesian age-period-cohort analysis of China and global mortality burden from 1990 to 2019.

AIMS: This study assessed diabetes (type 1 and type 2) mortality in China and globally from 1990 to 2019, predicting the next decade's trends. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data came from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database. The annual percentage change (AAPC) in age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR) for diabetes (type 1 and type 2) during 1990-2019 was calculated. A Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model predicted diabetes (type 1 and type 2) mortality from 2020 to 2030. RESULTS: In China, type 1 diabetes deaths declined from 6,005 to 4,504 cases (AAPC -2.827), while type 2 diabetes deaths rose from 64,084 to 168,388 cases (AAPC -0.763) from 1990 to 2019. Globally, type 1 diabetes deaths increased from 55,417 to 78,236 cases (AAPC 0.223), and type 2 diabetes deaths increased from 606,407 to 1,472,934 cases (AAPC 0.365). Both China and global trends showed declining type 1 diabetes ASMR. However, female type 2 diabetes ASMR in China initially increased and then decreased, while males had a rebound trend. Peak type 1 diabetes deaths were in the 40-44 age group, and type 2 diabetes peaked in those over 70. BAPC predicted declining diabetes (type 1 and type 2) mortality burden in China and globally over the next 10 years. CONCLUSIONS: Type 2 diabetes mortality remained high in China and globally despite decreasing type 1 diabetes mortality over 30 years. Predictions suggest a gradual decrease in diabetes mortality over the next decade, highlighting the need for continued focus on type 2 diabetes prevention and treatment.

Case report: Immunotherapy in rare high TMB pancreatic acinar carcinoma.

This case report details a patient with Pancreatic Acinar Cell Carcinoma (PACC), a rare malignancy with distinctive biological and imaging features. In the absence of standardized treatment protocols for PACC, we embarked on a diagnostic journey that led to the adoption of an innovative therapeutic regimen in our institution. A 45-year-old female patient presented with a pancreatic mass, which was histologically confirmed as PACC following a biopsy. Subsequent genomic profiling revealed a high tumor mutational burden (21.4/Mb), prompting the initiation of combined immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Notably, the patient experienced a unique adverse reaction to the immunotherapy-recurrent subcutaneous soft tissue nodules, particularly in the gluteal and lower limb regions, accompanied by pain, yet resolving spontaneously. Following six cycles of the dual therapy, radiological evaluations indicated a decrease in tumor size, leading to a successful surgical excision. Over a 20-month post-surgical follow-up, the patient showed no signs of disease recurrence. This narrative adds to the existing knowledge on PACC and highlights the potential efficacy of immunotherapy in managing this challenging condition, emphasizing the importance of close monitoring for any adverse reactions.

Shear-Sensitive circRNA-LONP2 Promotes Endothelial Inflammation and Atherosclerosis by Targeting NRF2/HO1 Signaling.

Hemodynamic shear stress is a frictional force that acts on vascular endothelial cells and is essential for endothelial homeostasis. Physiological laminar shear stress (LSS) suppresses endothelial inflammation and protects arteries from atherosclerosis. Herein, we screened differentially expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) that were significantly altered in LSS-stimulated endothelial cells and found that circRNA-LONP2 was involved in modulating the flow-dependent inflammatory response. Furthermore, endothelial circRNA-LONP2 overexpression promoted endothelial inflammation and atherosclerosis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circRNA-LONP2 competitively sponged miR-200a-3p and subsequently promoted Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1, Yes-associated protein 1, and enhancer of zeste homolog 2 expression, thereby inactivating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 signaling, promoting oxidative stress and endothelial inflammation, and accelerating atherosclerosis. LSS-induced down-regulation of circRNA-LONP2 suppresses endothelial inflammation, at least in part, by activating the miR-200a-3p-mediated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 signaling pathway. CircRNA-LONP2 may serve as a new therapeutic target for atherosclerosis.

Enhanced external counterpulsation improves sleep quality in chronic insomnia: A pilot randomized controlled study.

PURPOSE: To investigate the short-term efficacy of enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) on chronic insomnia. METHODS: This is a pilot randomized, participant-blind, and sham-controlled study. Forty-six participants with chronic insomnia were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive EECP or sham EECP intervention (total of 35 sessions with 45 min each). The primary outcome was Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The secondary outcomes included sleep diary, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Short-Form Health Survey (SF12), flow mediated dilation (FMD), serum biomarkers of melatonin, cortisol, interleukin-6, and high sensitivity C-reactive protein. Outcomes were assessed after treatment and at 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: The PSQI was significantly decreased in both EECP and sham groups after 35-session intervention (13.74 to 6.96 in EECP and 13.04 to 9.48 in sham), and EECP decreased PSQI more than sham EECP (p = 0.009). PSQI in two groups kept improved at 3-month follow-up. After treatment, the total sleep time, sleep efficiency, FMD value and SF12 mental component of EECP group were significantly improved, and group differences were found for these outcomes. At follow-up, total sleep time, sleep efficiency and SF12 mental component of EECP group remained improved, and group difference for SF12 mental component was found. Post-treatment and follow-up HADS-A significantly decreased in both groups, with no differences between groups. Post-treatment serum biomarkers showed no differences within and between groups. LIMITATION: Lack of objective sleep measurement. CONCLUSION: EECP could improve sleep quality and mental quality of life in chronic insomnia and the therapeutic effect maintained for 3 months.

A numerical study on the siphonic effect of enhanced external counterpulsation at lower extremities with a coupled 0D-1D closed-loop personalized hemodynamics model.

Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) is a treatment and rehabilitation approach for ischemic diseases, including coronary artery disease. Its therapeutic benefits are primarily attributed to the improved blood circulation achieved through sequential mechanical compression of the lower extremities. However, despite the crucial role that hemodynamic effects in the lower extremity arteries play in determining the effectiveness of EECP treatment, most studies have focused on the diastole phase and ignored the systolic phase. In the present study, a novel siphon model (SM) was developed to investigate the interdependence of several hemodynamic parameters, including pulse wave velocity, femoral flow rate, the operation pressure of cuffs, and the mean blood flow changes in the femoral artery throughout EECP therapy. To verify the accuracy of the SM, we coupled the predicted afterload in the lower extremity arteries during deflation using SM with the 0D-1D patient-specific model. Finally, the simulation results were compared with clinical measurements obtained during EECP therapy to verify the applicability and accuracy of the SM, as well as the coupling method. The precision and reliability of the previously developed personalized approach were further affirmed in this study. The average waveform similarity coefficient between the simulation results and the clinical measurements during the rest state exceeded 90%. This work has the potential to enhance our understanding of the hemodynamic mechanisms involved in EECP treatment and provide valuable insights for clinical decision-making.