Enhancing Colonoscopy Preparation in Elderly Constipation Patients: A Personalized Approach with PEG and Exercise - A Case Study.

This study aimed to optimize bowel preparation efficacy for colonoscopy in elderly constipation patients. A 71-year-old patient with chronic constipation and a history of poor bowel preparation. To address these challenges, we implemented a personalized strategy combining of PEG administration and walking exercise. The PEG was administered according to a protocol, with intermittent exercise breaks of 10 minute. Bowel cleanliness was assessed using the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS). Adverse reactions and tolerance were closely monitored throughout the intervention. The patient's BBPS score improved from 3 to 8 post-intervention. The exercise intervention was well-tolerated (rating I), and mild nausea was observed only after the first PEG dose. No severe adverse reactions occurred. Subsequent Follow-up revealed symptom relief. The personalized approach combining (PEG and exercise intervention) successfully improved bowel preparation quality in the elderly constipation patient undergoing colonoscopy. This approach considers age-related changes in gastrointestinal function and activity level, offering an effective strategy to improve patient tolerance and reduce adverse reactions during bowel preparation. The findings underscore the importance of tailoring interventions for elderly constipation patients to optimize the colonoscopy experience.

A 15-Inflammation-Related Gene Signature Predicts the Prognosis of Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma.

Chronic inflammation promotes the development of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and PDAC-related inflammatory tumor microenvironment facilitates tumor growth and metastasis. Thus, we aimed to study the association between inflammatory response and prognosis in patients with PDAC. We conducted the whole transcriptomic sequencing using tissue samples collected from patients diagnosed with PDAC (n = 106) recruited from Shandong Cancer Hospital. We first constructed a prognostic signature using 15 inflammation-related genes in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort (n = 177) and further validated it in an independent International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) cohort (n = 90) and our in-house cohort. PDAC patients with a higher risk score had poorer overall survival (OS) (P < 0.001; HR, 3.02; 95% CI, 1.94-4.70). The association between the prognostic signature and OS remained significant in the multivariable Cox regression adjusting for age, sex, alcohol exposure, diabetes, and stage (P < 0.001; HR, 2.91; 95% CI, 1.73-4.89). This gene signature also robustly predicted prognosis in the ICGC cohort (P = 0.01; HR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.14-3.30) and our cohort (P < 0.001; HR, 2.40; 95% CI, 1.45-3.97). Immune subtype C3 (inflammatory) was enriched and CD8+ T cells were higher in patients with a lower risk score (P < 0.05). Furthermore, PDAC patients with higher risk scores were more sensitive to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and PARP inhibitors (P < 0.05). In sum, we identified a novel gene signature that was associated with inflammatory response for risk stratification, prognosis prediction, and therapy guidance in PDAC patients. Future studies are warranted to validate the clinical utility of the signature.

Achieving long-lived white circularly polarized luminescence from carbonized polymer dots via phosphorescence resonance energy transfer.

Achieving white-light emission, especially long-lived white circularly polarized luminescence, is challenging. Herein, chiral phosphorescent carbonized polymer dots (CPDs) have been prepared by using chiral polymer sodium alginate and chiral small molecule L-lysine as precursors. Benefiting from the efficient triplet-to-singlet phosphorescence resonance energy transfer (PRET), CPD-based long-lived warm white CPL has been achieved for the first time. This study provides a universal strategy for the convenient and efficient preparation of CPD-based long-lived white CPL materials.

Mismatch repair protein deficiency and its implications on distant metastasis in colorectal cancer: A comprehensive analysis.

BACKGROUND: While previous studies have indicated variability in distant metastatic potential among different mismatch repair (MMR) states in colorectal cancer (CRC), their findings remain inconclusive, especially considering potential differences across various ethnic backgrounds. Furthermore, the gene regulatory networks and the underlying mechanisms responsible for these variances in metastatic potential across MMR states have yet to be elucidated. METHODS: We collected 2058 consecutive primary CRC samples from the South West of China and assessed the expression of MMR proteins (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2) using immunohistochemistry. To explore the inconsistencies between different MMR statuses and recurrence, we performed a meta-analysis. To delve deeper, we employed Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), ClueGo, and iRegulon, pinpointing gene expression networks and key regulatory molecules linked to metastasis and recurrence in CRC. Lastly, both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were applied to determine the impact of core regulatory molecules on metastasis. RESULTS: Of the samples, 8.2% displayed deficient MMR (dMMR), with losses of MLH1 and PSM2 observed in 40.8% and 63.9%, respectively. A unique 24.3% isolated loss of PMS2 without concurrent metastasis was identified, a result that diverges from established literature. Additionally, our meta-analysis further solidifies the reduced recurrence likelihood in dMMR CRC samples compared to proficient MMR (pMMR). Two gene expression networks tied to distant metastasis and recurrence were identified, with a majority of metastasis-related genes located on chromosomes 8 and 18. An IRF1 positive feedback loop was discerned in the metastasis-related network, and IRF1 was identified as a predictive marker for both recurrence-free and distant metastasis-free survival across multiple datasets. CONCLUSION: Geographical and ethnic factors might influence peculiarities in MMR protein loss. Our findings also highlight new gene expression networks and crucial regulatory molecules in CRC metastasis, enhancing our comprehension of the mechanisms driving distant metastasis.

Renin imprinted Poly(methyldopa) for biomarker detection and disease therapy.

Conventional molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) perform their functions principally depended on their three dimensional (3D) imprinted cavities (recognition sites) of templates. Here, retaining the function of recognition sites resulted from the imprinting of template molecules, the role of functional monomers is explored and expanded. Briefly, a class of dual-functional renin imprinted poly(methyldopa) (RMIP) is prepared, consisting of a drug-type function monomer (methyldopa, clinical high blood pressure drug) and a corresponding disease biomarker (renin, biomarker for high blood pressure disease). To boost target-to-receptor binding ratio and sensitivity, the microstructure of recognition sites is beforehand calculated and designed by Density Functional Theory calculations, and the whole interfacial structure, property and thickness of RMIP film is regulated by adjusting the polymerization techniques. The dual-functional applications of RMIP for biomarker detection and disease therapy in vivo is explored. Such RMIP-based biosensors achieves highly sensitive biomarker detection, where the LODs reaches down to 1.31 × 10-6 and 1.26 × 10-6 ng mL-1 for electrochemical and chemical polymers, respectively, and the application for disease therapy in vivo has been verified where displays the obviously decreased blood pressure values of mice. No acute and long-term toxicity is found from the pathological slices, declaring the promising clinical application potential of such engineered RMIP nanostructure.

RNA m6A dynamic modification mediated by nucleus-localized FTO is involved in follicular reserve.

In eukaryotic organisms, the most common internal modification of messenger RNA (mRNA) is N6-methyladenosine (m6A). This modification can be dynamically and reversibly controlled by specific enzymes known as m6A writers and erasers. The fat-mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) catalyzes RNA demethylation and plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes. Our research identified dynamic alterations in both m6A and FTO during the assembly of primordial follicles, with an inverse relationship observed for m6A levels and nuclear-localized FTO expression. Application of Fto small interfering RNA (siRNA) altered the expression of genes related to cell proliferation, hormone regulation, and cell chemotaxis, and affected RNA alternative splicing. Overexpression of the full-length Fto gene led to changes in m6A levels, alternative splicing of Cdk5, cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and proportion of primordial follicles. Conversely, overexpression of Fto lacking a nuclear localization signal (NLS) did not significantly alter m6A levels or primordial follicle assembly. These findings suggest that FTO, localized in the nucleus but not in the cytoplasm, regulates RNA m6A demethylation and plays a role in cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and primordial follicle assembly. These results highlight the potential of m6A and its eraser FTO as possible biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Understanding the molecular mechanism responsible for developing therapeutic radiation-induced radioresistance of rectal cancer and improving the clinical outcomes of radiotherapy - A review.

Rectal cancer accounts for the second highest cancer-related mortality, which is predominant in Western civilizations. The treatment for rectal cancers includes surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Radiotherapy, specifically external beam radiation therapy, is the most common way to treat rectal cancer because radiation not only limits cancer progression but also significantly reduces the risk of local recurrence. However, therapeutic radiation-induced radioresistance to rectal cancer cells and toxicity to normal tissues are major drawbacks. Therefore, understanding the mechanistic basis of developing radioresistance during and after radiation therapy would provide crucial insight to improve clinical outcomes of radiation therapy for rectal cancer patients. Studies by various groups have shown that radiotherapy-mediated changes in the tumor microenvironment play a crucial role in developing radioresistance. Therapeutic radiation-induced hypoxia and functional alterations in the stromal cells, specifically tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF), play a crucial role in developing radioresistance. In addition, signaling pathways, such as - the PI3K/AKT pathway, Wnt/ß-catenin signaling, and the hippo pathway, modulate the radiation responsiveness of cancer cells. Different radiosensitizers, such as small molecules, microRNA, nanomaterials, and natural and chemical sensitizers, are being used to increase the effectiveness of radiotherapy. This review highlights the mechanism responsible for developing radioresistance of rectal cancer following radiotherapy and potential strategies to enhance the effectiveness of radiotherapy for better management of rectal cancer.

A Review on Emerging Techniques for Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer.

Common detection methods in practice for diagnosing colorectal cancer (CRC) are painful and invasive leading to less participation of individuals for CRC diagnosis. Whereas, improved or enhanced imaging systems and other minimally invasive techniques with shorter detection times deliver greater detail and less discomfort in individuals. Thus, this review is a summary of the diagnostic tests, ranging from the simple potential use in developing a flexible CRC treatment to the patient's potential benefits in receiving less invasive procedures and the advanced treatments that might provide a better assessment for the diagnosis of CRC and reduce the mortality related to CRC.

A modified CEUS risk stratification model for adnexal masses with solid components: prospective multicenter study and risk adjustment.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the additional advantages of integrating contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) into the Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) ultrasound (US) for the characterization of adnexal lesions with solid components. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective multicenter study recruited women suspected of having adnexal lesions with solid components between September 2021 and December 2022. All patients scheduled for surgery underwent preoperative CEUS and US examinations. The lesions were categorized according to the O-RADS US system, and quantitative CEUS indexes were recorded. Pathological results served as the reference standard. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to identify risk factors for malignancy in adnexal lesions with solid components. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was employed to assess diagnostic performance. RESULTS: A total of 180 lesions in 175 women were included in the study. Among these masses, 80 were malignant and 100 were benign. Multivariable analysis revealed that serum CA-125, the presence of acoustic shadowing, and peak intensity (PI) ratio (PImass/PIuterus) of solid components on CEUS were independently associated with adnexal malignancy. The modified CEUS risk stratification model demonstrated superior diagnostic value in assessing adnexal lesions with solid components compared to O-RADS US (AUC: 0.91 vs 0.78, p < 0.001) and exhibited comparable performance to the Assessment of Different NEoplasias in the adnexa (ADNEX) model (AUC 0.91 vs 0.86, p = 0.07). CONCLUSION: Our findings underscore the potential value of CEUS as an adjunctive tool for enhancing the precision of diagnostic evaluations of O-RADS US. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: The promising performance of the modified CEUS risk stratification model suggests its potential to mitigate unnecessary surgeries in the characterization of adnexal lesions with solid components. KEY POINTS: • The additional value of CEUS to O-RADS US in distinguishing between benign and malignant adnexal lesions with solid components requires further evaluation. • The modified CEUS risk stratification model displayed superior diagnostic value and specificity in characterizing adnexal lesions with solid components when compared to O-RADS US. • The inclusion of CEUS demonstrated potential in reducing the need for unnecessary surgeries in the characterization of adnexal lesions with solid components.

RhoB expression associated with chemotherapy response and prognosis in colorectal cancer.

PURPOSE: To examine the role of RhoB expression in relation to chemotherapy response, clinical outcomes and associated signaling pathways in colorectal cancer patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 5 colon cancer cell lines, zebrafish embryos and 260 colorectal cancer patients treated with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and oxaliplatin (OXL). The methods consisted of CRISPR/Cas9, reactive oxygen species (ROS), caspase-3 activity, autophagy flux, in-silico RNA sequencing and immunohistochemistry. Gene expression analysis and pathway analysis were conducted using RNA-seq data. RESULTS: All cancer lines tested, including SW480, SW480-KO13 (RhoB knockout), SW480-KO55 (RhoB knockout), HCT116 and HCT116-OE (RhoB overexpressed), exhibited cytotoxicity to 5-FU and OXL. RhoB knockout cell lines demonstrated significantly reduced migration compared to the control cell lines. Furthermore, RhoB played a role in caspase-3-dependent apoptosis, regulation of ROS production and autophagic flux. The mRNA sequencing data indicated lower expression levels of oncogenes in RhoB knockout cell lines. The zebrafish model bearing SW480-KO showed a light trend toward tumor regression. RhoB expression by immunohistochemistry in patients was increased from normal mucosa to tumor samples. In patients who received chemotherapy, high RhoB expression was related to worse survival compared to low RhoB expression. Furthermore, the molecular docking analysis revealed that OXL had a higher binding affinity for RhoB than 5-FU, with a binding affinity of -7.8 kcal/mol and HADDOCK predicted molecular interactions between RhoB and caspase 3 protein. Gene-set enrichment analysis supported these findings, showing that enrichment of DNA damage response pathway and p53 signaling in RhoB overexpression treatment group, while the RhoB knockout treatment group exhibited enrichment in the negative regulation pathway of cell migration. CONCLUSION: RhoB was negatively associated with chemotherapy response and survival in colorectal cancers. Therefore, RhoB inhibition may enhance chemotherapeutic responses and patient survival.

Chiral Aggregation-Induced Emission Carbon Dot-Based Multicolor and Near-Infrared Circularly Polarized Delayed Fluorescence via a Light-Harvesting System.

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) materials are the research frontier of chiral luminescence. As a kind of luminescent carbon material, carbon dots (CDs) are expected to become excellent candidates for the construction of CPL materials. However, the construction of CD-based circularly polarized afterglow emission, especially multicolor and near-infrared emission, remains a great challenge due to aggregation-caused quenching and the instability of triplet excitons. In this work, we synthesized chiral CDs with aggregation-induced emission using dithiosalicylic acid and l/d-arginine as precursors through a one-step solvothermal method. Notably, the CDs exhibit green delayed fluorescence (DF) in poly(vinyl alcohol) films. Furthermore, multicolor and near-infrared circularly polarized delayed fluorescence is successfully realized via engineering a chiral light-harvesting system in which the CDs with green DF emission act as energy donors and fluorescent dyes with emission colors ranging from yellow to the near infrared serve as energy acceptors.

Chiral Phosphorescent Carbonized Polymer Dots Relayed Light-Harvesting System for Color-Tunable Circularly Polarized Room Temperature Phosphorescence.

Carbonized polymer dots (CPDs) with a circularly polarized fluorescence property have received increasing attention in recent years. However, it is still a great challenge to construct circularly polarized room-temperature phosphorescence (CPRTP) CPDs. Herein, a simple approach to the synthesis of intrinsically CPRTP CPDs for the first time by utilizing sodium alginate and l-/d-arginine as precursors under relatively mild reaction conditions is presented. Notably, the CPDs exhibit both chirality and green RTP in solid states. Furthermore, color-tunable CPRTP is successfully achieved by engineering chiral light-harvesting systems based on circularly polarized phosphorescence resonance energy transfer (C-PRET) where the CPDs with green RTP function as an initiator of chirality and light absorbance, and commercially available fluorescent dyes with different emission colors ranging from yellow to red serve as the terminal acceptors. Through one-step or sequential C-PRET, the light-harvesting systems can simultaneously furnish energy transfer and chirality transmission/amplification. Given the multicolor long afterglow, lifetime-tunable, and CPRTP properties, their potential applications in multiple information encryption are demonstrated.

Experimental and theoretical revealing of piezo-photocatalyst Bi2O2CO3 for degradation of ciprofloxacin in water.

In this report, we have attempted to experimentally and theoretically reveal a new piezo-photocatalyst Bi2O2CO3 for efficient removal of ciprofloxacin (CIP) from water. Bi2O2CO3 nanoplates were synthesized to evaluate their photocatalytic (irradiation source: simulated-sunlight), piezocatalytic (irradiation source: ultrasonic) and piezo-photocatalytic (irradiation source: simulated-sunlight and ultrasonic) performances for CIP elimination. Under the condition CCIP = 10 mg/L and Ccatalyst = 1 g/L, the piezo-photodegradation rate constant is obtained as kapp = 0.07811 min-1, which surpasses that of photocatalysis (kapp = 0.04686 min-1) and piezocatalysis (kapp = 0.01233 min-1); this phenomenon manifests an obvious piezo-enhanced photocatalytic behavior in terms of the "1 + 1 > 2" principle. The ultrasonic-induced piezoelectric behavior in Bi2O2CO3 nanoplates and involved piezo-photocatalytic mechanism were theoretically elucidated by density functional theory (DFT) and finite-element method (FEM) studies. Additionally, the effects of various factors on the CIP degradation, decomposition mechanism of CIP and toxicity of the decomposition intermediates were also analyzed.

Revolutionizing Fallopian Tube Evaluation in Infertility: Transvaginal Sonography Case Study.

Background: Transvaginal four-dimensional hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography (TVS 4D-HyCoSy) is a pivotal diagnostic tool in the assessment and management of infertility. Conventionally, a 20mL syringe is employed for contrast agent injection, either at a constant or pulsatile pressure. However, in cases of bilateral fallopian tube obstruction, continued injection can lead to discomfort and excessive pressure within the uterine cavity, necessitating discontinuation of the examination. Case Presentation: In this illuminating case study, a patient underwent TVS 4D-HyCoSy due to infertility concerns. Initial contrast agent injection failed to visualize both fallopian tubes, accompanied by acute pain. Bilateral tubal obstruction was diagnosed, prompting an innovative approach. A 2.5mL syringe was chosen for pulsed injection, leading to successful visualization of patency in one fallopian tube. Remarkably, the patient achieved natural pregnancy within three months of the examination. Conclusion: Pulsed injection using a small-volume syringe emerges as a promising technique in cases of fallopian tube obstruction during TVS 4D-HyCoSy. This method not only enhances patient comfort but also improves the likelihood of visualizing fallopian tube patency, contributing to accurate infertility assessments. As a supplementary technique, it addresses limitations associated with constant pressure injection and offers a novel approach to enhance diagnostic success.

Acoustic characterization for creep behaviors of marine sandy hydrate-bearing sediment.

Marine natural gas hydrate (NGH) is a promising substitutive low-carbon energy resource, whereas NGH-production induced geoengineering concerns remain challenging. Advanced forecast of possible geoengineering risks is the fundamental for eco-friendly NGH exploitation. Reservoir creep deformation is an early symptom of the geoengineering risks. However, whether the creep deformation behaviors of the NGH-bearing strata is predictable remains controversial. In this study, a series of multi-step loading creep test are conducted for sandy gas hydrate bearing sediment (GHBS) samples, during which the ultrasonic responses are recorded simultaneously. The acoustic velocity, compression-to-shear velocity ratio, Poission's ratio, main frequency, and main frequency amplitude are used to characterize creep failures of the GHBS for the first time. Combining analyses of the creep behaviors and acoustic responses yield the following conclusions. Firstly, the long-term strength derived from creeping test is 0.45-0.60 times of the shear strength derived from triaxial shearing. Ignoring the creep effect might underestimate the scale and intensity of possible geoengineering risks during long-term NGH exploitation. Secondly, the acoustic velocity increases gently and then decreases continuously during creeping. Once the accelerated creep appears, the acoustic velocity plummets significantly, together with a sudden decrease in the compression-to-shear velocity ratio, and fluctuations in the main frequency and its amplitude. Furthermore, the main frequency and its amplitude shall fluctuate abruptly prior to the emergence of the accelerated creep. Therefore, we anticipate that the combination of abnormal fluctuations of main frequency and its amplitude can be used as early-warning indicators for possible creep failure of the GHBS. The results might have great significance for in-situ detection and prediction of possible reservoir failure during long-term NGH exploitation.

A concise review on miRNAs as regulators of colon cancer stem cells and associated signalling pathways

Despite recent therapy advances and a better understanding of colon cancer biology, it remains one of the major causes of death. The cancer stem cells, associated with the progression, metastasis, and recurrence of colon cancer, play a major role in promoting the development of tumour and are found to be chemo resistant. The stroma of the tumour, which makes up the bulk of the tumour mass, is composed of the tumour microenvironment. With the advent of theranostic and the development of personalised medicine, miRNAs are becoming increasingly important in the context of colon malignancies. A holistic understanding of the regulatory roles of miRNAs in cancer cells and cancer stem cells will allow us to design effective strategies to regulate miRNAs, which could lead to improved clinical translation and creating a potent colon cancer treatment strategy. In this review paper, we briefly discuss the history of miRNA as well as the mechanisms of miRNA and cancer stem cells that contribute to the tumour growth, apoptosis, and advancement of colon cancer. The usefulness of miRNA in colorectal cancer theranostic is further concisely reviewed. We conclude by holding a stance in addressing the prospects and possibilities for miRNA by the disclosure of recent theranostic approaches aimed at eradicating cancer stem cells and enhancing overall cancer treatment outcomes (AU)

An Updated Review on Molecular Biomarkers in Diagnosis and Therapy of Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancer types worldwide. Since colorectal cancer takes time to develop, its incidence and mortality can be treated effectively if it is detected in its early stages. As a result, non-invasive or invasive biomarkers play an essential role in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer. Many experimental studies have been carried out to assess genetic, epigenetic, or protein markers in feces, serum, and tissue. It may be possible to find biomarkers that will help with the diagnosis of colorectal cancer by identifying the genes, RNAs, and/or proteins indicative of cancer growth. Recent advancements in the molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer, DNA methylation, microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, exosomes, and their involvement in colorectal cancer have led to the discovery of numerous new colorectal cancer biomarkers. In small-scale investigations, most biomarkers appear promising. However, large-scale clinical trials are required to validate their effectiveness before routine clinical implementation. Hence, this review focuses on small-scale investigations and results of big data analysis that may provide an overview of the biomarkers for the diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis of colorectal cancer.

SerpinA3 Promotes Myocardial Infarction in Rat and Cell-based Models.

This study aimed to examine the role and molecular mechanism of the nuclear factor κB (NFκB)/serine protease inhibitor A3 (SerpinA3) interaction in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. First, a rat model for myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury was established, using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride to measure the size of the myocardial infarction. Pathological variations in myocardial tissue were detected using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Flow cytometry and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining were used to measure cell death in the rat model. The SerpinA3 mRNA and protein expressions in the myocardium of IR-model rats were remarkably higher than those in the control group. Furthermore, the oxidative, inflammatory, and apoptotic activities of the myocardial tissue of SerpinA3-knockdown (KD) rats were significantly improved compared to those in the WT group. SerpinA3-KD also contributed to the recovery of cardiac function in IR-model rats. Additionally, silencing of SerpinA3 inhibited p65 phosphorylation in myocardial tissues and reduced H2O2-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in myocardial cells. The expression of SerpinA3 increased in myocardial tissue after IR stimulation. Knockdown of SerpinA3 can deactivate NF-κB and reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in vivo and in vitro, thereby lessening myocardial injury caused by IR. In conclusion, SerpinA3 promotes myocardial infarction in rat and cell-based models by activating NF-κB. However, the mechanism by which increased Serpina3 expression causes downstream NF-κB activation to mediate the proposed, pathological effects in myocardial IR injury remain untested and worthy of future investigations.

Wavelet scattering networks in deep learning for discovering protein markers in a cohort of Swedish rectal cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Cancer biomarkers play a pivotal role in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response prediction of the disease. In this study, we analyzed the expression levels of RhoB and DNp73 proteins in rectal cancer, as captured in immunohistochemical images, to predict the 5-year survival time of two patient groups: one with preoperative radiotherapy and one without. METHODS: The utilization of deep convolutional neural networks in medical research, particularly in clinical cancer studies, has been gaining substantial attention. This success primarily stems from their ability to extract intricate image features that prove invaluable in machine learning. Another innovative method for extracting features at multiple levels is the wavelet-scattering network. Our study combines the strengths of these two convolution-based approaches to robustly extract image features related to protein expression. RESULTS: The efficacy of our approach was evaluated across various tissue types, including tumor, biopsy, metastasis, and adjacent normal tissue. Statistical assessments demonstrated exceptional performance across a range of metrics, including prediction accuracy, classification accuracy, precision, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. CONCLUSION: These results underscore the potential of dual convolutional learning to assist clinical researchers in the timely validation and discovery of cancer biomarkers.

Measurement on a thin plate of stepped thickness using zero-group velocity effect of an S1 mode Lamb wave induced by a moving laser source.

The desired narrowband mode of a Lamb wave can be generated efficiently, as long as the laser's moving speed matches the mode's phase velocity, which is a typical characteristic of the moving continuous wave (CW) laser excitation method. In this paper, S 1 mode zero group velocity (ZGV) waves can be generated efficiently when the laser's moving speed matches the phase velocity of the S 1 mode at the ZGV point, while the two fundamental Lamb modes, i.e., A 0 and S 0 waves, can be avoided. Meanwhile, measurements on thin plates of stepped thickness were carried out by using the zero-group velocity effect of the S 1 mode. Those simulation results demonstrated that the S 1-Z G V resonance can be used to measure the thickness of thin plates by tracking the resonance peak as the sample was scanned, and good accuracy can be achieved, since the measurement was reduced to a simple frequency gauging of sample resonances in the ultrasonic domain, which provides a reliable method to measure a thin plate of varying thickness.