BTG2-deficient mast cells remodel the tumor and tumor-draining lymph node microenvironment leading to chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer.

Background: Breast cancer is currently the most frequently diagnosed malignancy worldwide, with chemotherapy resistance being a major contributor to breast cancer-related mortality and distant metastasis. The role of lymph nodes as the initial site of immune defense remains controversial, particularly regarding whether complete dissection or preservation is necessary during breast cancer surgery.

Methods: We performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on cells derived from metastatic tumor draining lymph nodes and tumor tissue of four breast cancer patients exhibiting either sensitivity or resistance to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC).

Perchlorate-tolerant bacterial strains isolated from the Mars-analog Qaidam Basin soils exposed to Earth's near space.

Earth's lower near space of 20-40 km above sea level with polyextreme conditions serves as a unique Mars analog for astrobiological research to investigate the limits of life on Earth and planetary protection considerations for Mars exploration. In this study, we exposed Mars-like desert regolith to near space at a float altitude of ~35 km and isolated four bacterial strains after exposure. In addition to stress tolerance to extreme environmental stressors, these strains represent a remarkable tolerance to perchlorate that is widespread in present-day Martian soils.

Incidence and management of pyrotinib-associated diarrhea in HER2-positive advanced breast cancer patients.

Background: The PHOEBE study showed that pyrotinib is an alternative treatment option for patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive advanced breast cancer after trastuzumab and chemotherapy. Diarrhea was a common adverse event that could compromise or modify treatment administration.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of HER2-positive advanced breast cancer patients receiving a pyrotinib-based regimen between August 2018 and January 2021.

Physicians' attitudes towards reproduction in young patients with early breast cancer in China.

Background: As more young patients with breast cancer undergo treatments and obtain good prognoses, the issue of postoperative reproduction in breast cancer patients has attracted more attention.

Methods: We conducted a prospective, cross-sectional survey of 2000 breast cancer-associated physicians using a 24-items questionnaire adapted from prior guides. Then we used a multivariable linear regression model to confirm independent associations between the propensity of physicians' attitudes toward reproduction and physicians' specific demographic characteristics.