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Electrochemical water splitting offers an advancing approach to producing highly pure hydrogen and oxygen, motivated by the prevalence of a low‐carbon economy and the goal of a sustainable future. The customized modulation of electronic structures enables the electrocatalyst to directionally promote hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), which is a promising shortcut to overall water splitting (OWS). Herein, 3D homologous WSeS/CoSeS heterojunction nanoarrays (WSeS/CoSeS NAs) and W‐doped CoSeS nanoarrays (W‐CoSeS NAs) are investigated. Abundant heterointerfaces within WSeS/CoSeS NAs facilitate HER kinetics, boosting mass diffusivity, and increasing carrier separation and transfer process. High‐valence W6+ doping into CoSeS prevents phase separation and stabilizes Co sites by charge offset effect, leading to enhanced OER. Consequently, the WSeS/CoSeS NAs and W‐CoSeS NAs reach 10 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of 43.8 and 233.3 mV in 1.0 m KOH electrolyte for HER and OER, respectively. Moreover, when asymmetrically engaged as an electrolyzer, this configuration exhibits extraordinary electrocatalytic performances (cell voltage of 1.51 V at 10 mA cm−2) with satisfying stability and mechanical robustness (over 1000 h at 1000 mA cm−2). The modulation and manufacture of reaction‐property‐oriented materials are experimentally and theoretically validated potential, illuminating the light of inspiration for multiple applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A non‐precious metal‐based catalyst for water electrolysis provides great promise for cost‐effective and highly efficient sustainable hydrogen production. It herein rationally synthesizes uniform superminiature CoNi nanoparticles (2.6 nm) embedded in 3D N‐doped randomly oriented and erected porous carbon nanosheets (CoNi@N‐PCNS). Taking advantage of the large specific surface area, expedited intermediate transport, and effectively exposed active sites of the hierarchical architecture, located CoNi nanoparticles yield a high atom utilization efficiency. Density functional theory calculations indicate that synergetic and cooperative interactions inside CoNi alloy modulate the d‐band center, leading to a moderate adsorption and desorption energy of reaction intermediates, further accelerating both hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) kinetics. Accordingly, the as‐synthesized CoNi@N‐PCNS catalyst establishes superb catalytic activities for HER and OER, revealing overpotentials of 71.2 and 263.8 mV at 10 mA cm−2, respectively. Remarkably, when assembled as a two‐electrode electrolyzer, a satisfying cell voltage of 1.59 V at 10 mA cm−2, and superior stability are demonstrated, highlighting great promise toward water electrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthracnose of poplar caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is a leaf disease that seriously affects poplar growth. The pathogen invades the host in the form of adherent cells, which generate turgor pressure through the metabolism of intracellular substances prior to penetrating the epidermis of poplar leaves. In this study, the expansion-related pressure of the mature appressorium of the wild-type C. gloeosporioides was approximately 13.02 ± 1.54 MPa at 12 h, whereas it was 7.34 ± 1.23 MPa and 9.34 ± 2.22 MPa in the melanin synthesis-related gene knockout mutants ΔCgCmr1 and ΔCgPks1, respectively. The CgCmr1 and CgPks1 genes were highly expressed at 12 h in the wild-type control, implying that the DHN melanin biosynthesis pathway may play an important role in the mature appressorium stage. The transcriptome sequencing analysis indicated that the upregulated melanin biosynthesis genes in C. gloeosporioides, such as CgScd1, CgAyg1, CgThr1, CgThr2, and CgLac1, are involved in specific KEGG pathways (i.e., fatty acid biosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and biotin metabolism). Therefore, we speculate that the melanin synthesis-related genes and fatty acid metabolism pathway genes contribute to the regulation of the turgor pressure in the mature C. gloeosporioides appressorium, ultimately leading to the formation of infection pegs that enter plant tissues. These observations may reflect the co-evolution of C. gloeosporioides and its host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen (H 2), nitrogen (N 2) and carbon dioxide (CO 2) solubilities were measured at the temperature (313 to 363) K and the pressure (0.809 to 6.194) MPa. The reliability of the experimental system was verified by measuring the solubilities of N 2 in dodecane and CO 2 in decane at 344 K. The experimental data were fitted by empirical correlation x = (a T 2 + b T + c) (d p 2 + e p + f) , and the relative deviations between the experimental value and the literature value for the solubilities at given pressure and temperature were less than ±5 %. Under the same temperature and pressure conditions, the solubilities of the three gases in DPM is CO 2 > N 2 ≈ H 2. Krichevsky- Kasarnovsky (K-K) equation was used to fit the experimental data. The absolute average relative deviation (AAD) between the experimental data of H 2 +DPM, N 2 +DPM and CO 2 +DPM systems and the calculated values of K-K equation are 1.21 %, 1.86 % and 0.88 %, respectively. In addition, the Henry constants of three gases dissolved in DPM were calculated, and the solution enthalpy, solution entropy, solution Gibbs free energy and solution specific heat capacity were calculated. H 2 and N 2 solubilities showed to be endothermic, while CO 2 showed the opposite trend. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceftazidime/avibactam comprises the broad-spectrum cephalosporin ceftazidime and the non-β-lactam β-lactamase inhibitor avibactam. This phase 3, randomised, double-blind study (NCT01726023) assessed the efficacy and safety of ceftazidime/avibactam plus metronidazole compared with meropenem in patients with complicated intra-abdominal infection (cIAI) in Asian countries. Subjects aged 18–90 years and hospitalised with cIAI requiring surgical intervention were randomised 1:1 to receive every 8 h either: ceftazidime/avibactam (2000/500 mg, 2-h infusion) followed by metronidazole (500 mg, 60-min infusion); or meropenem (1000 mg, 30-min infusion). Non-inferiority of ceftazidime/avibactam plus metronidazole to meropenem was concluded if the lower limit of the 95% confidence interval (CI) for the between-group difference in clinical cure rate was greater than −12.5% at the test-of-cure (TOC) visit (28–35 days after randomisation) in the clinically evaluable (CE) population. Safety was also evaluated. Of 441 subjects randomised, 432 received at least one dose of study medication (ceftazidime/avibactam plus metronidazole, n  = 215; meropenem, n  = 217). In the CE population at the TOC visit, non-inferiority of ceftazidime/avibactam plus metronidazole to meropenem was demonstrated, with clinical cure reported for 93.8% (166/177) and 94.0% (173/184) of subjects, respectively (between-group difference, −0.2, 95% CI −5.53 to 4.97). The clinical cure rate with ceftazidime/avibactam plus metronidazole was comparable in subjects with ceftazidime-non-susceptible and ceftazidime-susceptible isolates (95.7% vs. 92.1%, respectively). Adverse events were similar between the study groups. Ceftazidime/avibactam plus metronidazole was non-inferior to meropenem in the treatment of cIAIs in Asian populations and was effective against ceftazidime-non-susceptible pathogens. No new safety concerns were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simultaneous integration of electronic regulation and architectural engineering in one electrocatalyst represents a powerful leverage to concurrently boost the electrocatalytic performance towards overall water splitting. We herein rationally fabricate Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P "stalk"-"cap"-typed nanoarrays (Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P SCNAs) with abundant heterointerfaces and elaborately implanted "caps". The nanoarrayed structure can substantially enlarge the exposure of active sites and promote the mass/electron transport, thus accelerating the reaction kinetics. Moreover, the purposely grafted "caps" are beneficial to increase the hydrophilicity/aerophobicity, which facilitate the water affinity and release of generated gas bubbles. Accordingly, the obtained Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P SCNAs deliver exceptional electrocatalytic performances towards the HER and OER, as reflected by the overpotentials of 45.4 and 280.4 mV at 10 mA cm−2, respectively. More impressively, the two-electrode electrolyzer assembled by freestanding Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P SCNAs requires a cell voltage of 1.56 V at 10 mA cm−2 and exhibits superior stability and full reversibility, holding great potential in practical water electrolysis. [Display omitted] • Heterostructured Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P SCNAs ("stalk"-"cap"-typed nanoarrays) are fabricated. • Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P SCNAs possess regulated electronic structure and increased active sites. • The hydrophilicity/aerophobicity of Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P SCNAs benefit gas-releasing reactions. • Sn 4 P 3 /Co 2 P SCNAs exhibit robust electrocatalytic performance and full reversibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by dopaminergic neurodegeneration and an abnormal accumulation of α-synuclein aggregates. A number of genetic factors have been shown to increase the risk of PD. Exploring the underlying molecular mechanisms that mediate PD's transcriptomic diversity can help us understand neurodegenerative pathogenesis. In this study, we identified 9897 A-to-I RNA editing events associated with 6286 genes across 372 PD patients. Of them, 72 RNA editing events altered miRNA binding sites and this may directly affect miRNA regulations of their host genes. However, RNA editing effects on the miRNA regulation of genes are more complex. They can (1) abolish existing miRNA binding sites, which allows miRNAs to regulate other genes; (2) create new miRNA binding sites that may sequester miRNAs from regulating other genes; or (3) occur in the miRNA seed regions and change their targets. The first two processes are also referred to as miRNA competitive binding. In our study, we found 8 RNA editing events that may alter the expression of 1146 other genes via miRNA competition. We also found one RNA editing event that modified a miRNA seed region, which was predicted to disturb the regulation of four genes. Considering the PD-related functions of the affected genes, 25 A-to-I RNA editing biomarkers for PD are proposed, including the 3 editing events in the EIF2AK2, APOL6, and miR-4477b seed regions. These biomarkers may alter the miRNA regulation of 133 PD-related genes. All these analyses reveal the potential mechanisms and regulations of RNA editing in PD pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vicinal oxygen chelate (VOC) proteins are members of an enzyme superfamily with dioxygenase or non‐dioxygenase activities. However, the biological functions of VOC proteins in plants are poorly understood. Here, we show that a VOC in Nicotiana benthamiana (NbVOC1) facilitates viral infection. NbVOC1 was significantly induced by infection by beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV). Transient overexpression of NbVOC1 or its homolog from Beta vulgaris (BvVOC1) enhanced BNYVV infection in N. benthamiana, which required the nuclear localization of VOC1. Consistent with this result, overexpressing NbVOC1 facilitated BNYVV infection, whereas, knockdown and knockout of NbVOC1 inhibited BNYVV infection in transgenic N. benthamiana plants. NbVOC1 interacts with the basic leucine zipper transcription factors bZIP17/28, which enhances their self‐interaction and DNA binding to the promoters of unfolded protein response (UPR)‐related genes. We propose that bZIP17/28 directly binds to the NbVOC1 promoter and induces its transcription, forming a positive feedback loop to induce the UPR and facilitating BNYVV infection. Collectively, our results demonstrate that NbVOC1 positively regulates the UPR that enhances viral infection in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel sprout-shaped Mo-doped CoP (CP) is prepared via template-assisted method. • CP exhibits excellent catalytic performance and long-term durability. • CP possesses maximized hydrophilicity and efficient gas bubble release. The electrochemical water splitting reaction offers an attractive approach to generate hydrogen fuels as green and renewable energy, in helping ease the global warming and energy crisis, working as a clean energy carrier. In this study, we present the sprout-shaped Mo-doped CoP (denoted CP) as a catalyst for efficient water splitting electrode under alkaline environment. The electrode possesses a unique nanoarray type 'pillar' and microscale 'tip' structure, which promotes high hydrophilicity and effective gas bubble release, hence achieving a future goal of highly efficient water splitting device for practical use. For both hydrogen and oxygen evolution reaction (HER and OER), the electrode shows remarkable catalytic activity together with reliable stability in alkaline solution, which makes CP a promising electrocatalyst to date. By investigating the gas releasing efficiency regarding various nano/microstructured electrodes, as-prepared CP surpasses the compared samples, indicating maximized nano/microstructures specialized for gas evolution electrode. When the CP performed as an overall water splitting electrode, only 1.49 V of overpotential is needed to achieve the current density of 10 mA·cm−2 and maintained 10 and 200 mA·cm−2 for over 35 h with little degradation of catalytic activity. This work would give inspiration to many investigators who work on optimizing structures of transition metal-based nanomaterials, promoting their applications in other renewable energy options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthetic method of Pt nanocluster-anchored hollow Ag-Au nanostructures and measurements of their electrocatalytic properties for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) are reported here. In this synthesis, uniform Ag nanospheres were prepared by reduction of silver nitrate (AgNO3) with sodium borohydride (NaBH4) and then hollow Ag-Au nanostructures were synthesized via galvanic replacement of the as-prepared Ag nanospheres with Au3+. Finally, the reduction of potassium tetrachloroplatinate (II) (K2PtCl4) with ascorbic acid was performed to deposit Pt nanoclusters on the surface of hollow Ag-Au nanostructures. The hollow interior of Pt nanocluster-anchored Ag-Au nanostructures and change in the size of Pt nanoclusters by varying the injected molar ratio of Pt/Au were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Moreover, other morphological, compositional, and optical information of the obtained nanoscale materials were analyzed by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis). The electrocatalytic ability of the obtained Pt nanocluster-anchored hollow Ag-Au nanostructures toward MOR was confirmed by the results of cyclic voltametric (CV) measurements. The ease of three-step synthetic strategy and good electrocatalytic performance of the Pt nanocluster-anchored hollow Ag-Au nanostructures displayed their promising potential in the use of electrochemical oxidation of methanol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The liver is the most common anatomical site for hematogenous metastases of colorectal cancer, and colorectal liver metastases is one of the most difficult and challenging points in the treatment of colorectal cancer. To improve the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment in China, the Guidelines have been edited and revised several times since 2008, including the overall evaluation, personalized treatment goals and comprehensive treatments, to prevent the occurrence of liver metastases, improve the resection rate of liver metastases and survival. The revised Guideline includes the diagnosis and follow-up, prevention, MDT effect, surgery and local ablative treatment, neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy, and comprehensive treatment, and with advanced experience, latest results, detailed content, and strong operability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The immune landscapes of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are still unclear. We aimed to explore the immune status of GISTs with different recurrence risks and sought potential immunotherapeutic targets. Methods: Immune cell infiltration and the expression of 93 tumor markers of 65 GISTs with different recurrence risks from public datasets were analyzed via bioinformatic methods. Infiltrating immune cell and OX40L expression of 417 patients from the Zhongshan cohort were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. The clinicopathological data of the patients were collected and the prognostic factors were analyzed by univariate and multivariate methods. Results: Macrophages, T cells and NK cells were the most abundant immune cells in tumor microenvironment. OX40L was the only differentially expressed marker in high- and low-risk patients, as well as in patients with primary and recurrent GIST. The positive rate of OX40L in GIST was 54%. OX40L was highly expressed in patients with no metastasis, low mitotic index and relapse risk. The amount of CD68 + macrophages was the independent factor of OX40L expression. The OX40L expression was positively correlated with M2 and resting mast cells. OX40L co-located with CD4 + T cells, M2 and activated mast cells. Patients with high OX40L levels experienced more prolonged relapse-free survival (RFS). Conclusions: We first reported that GIST cells could express OX40L, patients with high OX40L experienced longer RFS. The colocalization of OX40L with immune cells indicates that OX40L could be a promising potential target for immunotherapy in GIST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IMPROVE Bleeding Risk Score (BRS) is known to be validated and widely accepted in medical patients. However, its relevance in surgical patients has so far not been explored. External validation of the IMPROVE BRS on bleeding in surgical patients can hopefully improve clinical practice (for surgical patients). Data from 6986 surgical patients were collected from the DissolVE-2 cohort. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to assess the incidences of major bleeding and any bleeding among surgical patients within 14 days of admission. A cut-off value of BRS ≥7 indicated a higher risk of bleeding. Risk factors associated with major and any bleeding were analysed by the Cox regression method. Model discrimination was evaluated by area under the receiver operator characteristic curves (AUC). Calibration curves and Hosmer-Lemeshow χ2 statistics were used to measure the difference between predicted and observed bleeding risks. A total of 6399 surgical patients were included in the final validation cohort. The cumulative incidence rate of any bleeding was 3.9 % (95 % confidence interval [CI], 3.4–4.5), of which the incidence rate of major bleeding was 1.2 % (95 % CI, 0.9–1.6). Among patients with a BRS of ≥7, 16.3 % reported any bleeding, and 26.3 % reported major bleeding. The IMPROVE BRS had a better discriminative power (AUC = 0.69) and excellent goodness of fit (Hosmer-Lemeshow test, P = 0.208) for the prediction of major bleeding events as compared with any bleeding (AUC = 0.55; Hosmer-Lemeshow test, P = 0.004). The calibration plot suggested a more accurate prediction for major bleeding events. Moreover, the IMPROVE BRS had a higher AUC value of 0.83 and better goodness of fit (P = 0.2616) for major bleeding in patients undergoing abdominal surgery than other surgery types. The IMPROVE BRS is a simple and practical technique that can help in predicting the risk of major bleeding in surgical patients, improving functional and safety outcomes of hospitalized patients with surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC), an aggressive and mostly lethal malignancy, is known to be resistant to a number of apoptotic stimuli. Here, we report for the first time the pro-apoptosis role of arsenic trioxide (As2O3) in gallbladder carcinoma and identify the contribution of Bcl-2 in the As2O3-induced apoptosis. The treatment of As2O3 in gallbladder carcinoma cells could induce apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner and downregulate the expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 at mRNA level. Moreover, Bcl-2 overexpression could protect gallbladder carcinoma cells from As2O3-induced apoptosis, indicating the contribution of Bcl-2 in As2O3-induced apoptosis. Taken together, these results suggest that arsenic trioxide induces gallbladder carcinoma cell apoptosis via downregulation of Bcl-2, which may have important therapeutic implications in gallbladder carcinoma patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a type of pervasive genes that regulates various biological processes, are differentially expressed in different types of malignant tumors. The role of lncRNAs in the carcinogenesis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role of the lncRNA DKFZp434J0226 in PDAC. Methods: Aberrantly expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs among six PDAC and paired non-tumorous tissues were profiled using microarray analysis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate DKFZp434J0226 expression in PDAC tissues. CCK-8 assay, wound-healing assay, soft agar colony formation assay, and transwell assay were performed to assess the invasiveness and proliferation of PDAC cells. Furthermore, RNA pull-down, immunofluorescence, RNA immunoprecipitation, and western blotting assays were performed to investigate the association between DKFZp434J0226 and SF3B6. Tumor xenografts in mice were used to test for tumor formation in vivo. Results: In our study, 222 mRNAs and 128 lncRNAs were aberrantly expressed (≥ twofold change). Of these, 66 mRNAs and 53 lncRNAs were upregulated, while 75 lncRNAs and 156 mRNAs were downregulated. KEGG pathway analysis and the Gene ontology category indicated that these genes were associated with the regulation of mRNA alternative splicing and metabolic balance. Clinical analyses revealed that overexpression of DKFZp434J0226 was associated with worse tumor grading, frequent perineural invasion, advanced tumor-node-metastasis stage, and decreased overall survival and time to progression. Functional assays demonstrated that DKFZp434J0226 promoted PDAC cell migration, invasion, and growth in vitro and accelerated tumor proliferation in vivo. Mechanistically, DKFZp434J0226 interacted with the splicing factor SF3B6 and promoted its phosphorylation, which further regulated the alternative splicing of pre-mRNA. Conclusions: This study indicates that DKFZp434J0226 regulates alternative splicing through phosphorylation of SF3B6 in PDAC and leads to an oncogenic phenotype in PDAC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To characterize the immune cell profile and expression of PD-1, PD-L1, and IDO in PDGFRA-mutant gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Methods: The clinicopathological data of PDGFRA-mutant GIST patients who received surgical resection in Zhongshan Hospital between January 2013 and August 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. The specimens of tissue chips were detected for immune cell infiltration and the expression of PD-1, PD-L1, and IDO by immunohistochemical staining. Results: CD3+, CD8+, and CD68+ cells were the main infiltrating immune cells in the 42 patients included in this study. In addition, CD4+, CD56+, Foxp3+, and CD20+ cells were also observed. A higher CD8+ T cell count was associated with smaller tumor size and PDGFRA D842V mutation (P = 0.047, P = 0.005). A higher CD3+ and CD68+ cell count was associated with a higher mitotic index (P = 0.022, P = 0.006). CD4+ and CD20+ cell count was associated with tumor morphology (P = 0.002, P = 0.045). PD-1 expression was present in 37 (88%) samples. Eighteen samples were positive for PD-L1 expression, and it was higher in small vs. large tumors (P = 0.012) and epithelioid and mixed cell type vs. spindle cell type GISTs (P = 0.046). IDO expression was positive in all 42 patients. The number of CD4+ cells was significantly greater in the specimens with high IDO expression (P = 0.012). Conclusion: There were abundant infiltrating immune cells in PDGFRA-mutant GISTs. PD-L1 expression was negatively associated with tumor size. The immunotherapy targeting PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint and IDO may be valuable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A review of solid salt powder assisted nanostructured materials------ synthetic method, properties and electrochemical performance in various electrochemical energy storage devices. • This work reviews salt powder assisted preparation of nanostructured materials. • The synthetic methods to prepare various nanostructures are summarized. • The applications for electrochemical energy storage devices are presented. • The potential of the method for real applications is also discussed. Electrochemical energy-storage devices are essential in our daily life to supply electricity in order to support electric vehicles, portable electronic devices and back-up power. Innovative researches on new versatile electrode materials are the foundation for the development of neoteric high-performance electrochemical energy-storage devices. Electrode materials with nanoscale size as well as unique morphologies often provide higher theoretical specific capacities than bulk materials. To date, salt powder assisted synthetic methods have been continuously investigated. This review reinforces our understanding of solid salt assisted synthetic methods to make them more sufficient and systematic, which promotes their widespread development and application, especially in the synthesis of nanostructured materials for electrochemical energy storage devices. This work reviews recent scientific advances involving solid salts as functional assistant for the preparations of nanostructured materials with high porosity, as well as their applications in electrochemical energy storage devices. Furthermore, this review highlights that the optimization of the precursors as well as careful choice of salt is needed to fabricate such nanomaterials successfully. Finally, we present a vision for the future development of optimal electrochemical energy storage devices with excellent performances derived from their unique nanostructures with the assistance of solid salts which possess infinite possibilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety of endoscopic surgery, the clinicopathological features, and prognoses of small gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).Methods: Small gastric GIST patients (diameter: 0.10-2.00 cm) resected endoscopically in Zhongshan Hospital were retrospectively identified and clinicopathological features and outcomes were collected. The relationship between clinicopathological characteristics and tumor recurrence was analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the optimal tumor diameter for predicting malignant potential.Results: All lesions were completely removed by endoscopy and En bloc resection was 98.5%. The most frequent location was the gastric fundus (60.3%) and the average diameter of all lesions was 1.20 cm (range: 0.10-2.00 cm). Mitoses were calculated as more than 5/50 HPF in 44 (6.8%) patients and nuclear atypia was moderate in 243 (37.5%) patients, severe in 1 (0.2%). Necrosis, mucosal infiltration, and vascular infiltration were detected in 8 (1.2%), 5 (0.7%), and 3 (0.5%) patients, respectively. Tumor size was positively correlated with mitotic index (P < 0.001) and nuclear atypia (P < 0.001). After a median follow-up of 54 months, four patients were confirmed local recurrence. ROC curve analysis identified 1.45 cm as the best cut-off value to predict malignant potential (95% CI: 0·694-0·774). Survival analysis showed that patients with tumor diameters larger than 1.45 cm were associated with more local recurrences after resection (P = 0.011).Conclusions: Endoscopic surgery is feasible and safe for small gastric GISTs, especially those in favorable locations. Small gastric GISTs bear a good prognosis as a whole but those with diameters larger than 1.45 cm should receive more intensive surveillance or undergo endoscopic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, glassy carbon electrode was modified by Nafion coated gold nanoparticle-graphene quantum dots (Au-GQDs-Nafion) nanocomposite and used for voltammetric determination of trace dopamine. The properties of the as-prepared material were characterized by UV–vis spectrometry, fluorescence spectrometry and TEM. The Au-GQDs-Nafion composite showed the excellent synergistic effect for the electrochemical detection of dopamine (DA). Under optimum conditions, the differential voltammetric (DPV) peak current and the concentration of DA displayed a linear range of 2 μM to 50 μM with the detection limit of 0.84 μM. Furthermore, the as-prepared electrode also showed selectivity toward DA detection in the existence of uric acid (UA) and ascorbic acid (AA). The interference experiment showed, that most of the ions did not show obvious influence on the detection of DA. The modified electrode presented reasonable stability and reproducibility in the voltammetric determination of DA, and also the nanocomposite was applied for the real sample analysis in human urine. Unlabelled Image • Nafion coated Au nanoparticle-graphene quantum dot nanocomposite are modified on glassy carbon electrode. • The composite maintains its selectivity in the existence of uric acid and ascorbic acid. • The modified electrode can be applied for the real sample analysis in human urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Limited data exist on VTE risk and prophylaxis in Chinese inpatients. The Identification of Chinese Hospitalized Patients' Risk Profile for Venous Thromboembolism-2 (DissolVE-2), a nationwide, multicenter, cross-sectional study, was therefore designed to investigate prevalence of VTE risks and evaluate VTE prophylaxis implementation compliant with the latest prophylaxis guidelines (American College of Chest Physicians [CHEST], 9th edition).Methods: Adults admitted (≥ 72 h) to 60 urban, tertiary Chinese hospitals due to acute medical conditions or surgery from March to September 2016 were assessed for VTE risk. Risk assessments were made by using the Padua Prediction Scoring or Caprini Risk Assessment model, risk factors, and prophylaxis based on the CHEST guidelines, 9th edition.Results: A total of 13,609 patients (6,986 surgical and 6,623 medical) were analyzed. VTE risk in surgical inpatients was categorized as low (13.9%; 95% CI, 13.1-14.7), moderate (32.7%; 95% CI, 31.6-33.8), and high (53.4%; 95% CI, 52.2-54.6); risk in medical patients was categorized as low (63.4%; 95% CI, 62.2-64.6) and high (36.6%; 95% CI, 35.4-37.8). Major risk factors in surgical and medical patients were major open surgery (52.6%) and acute infection (42.2%), respectively. Overall rate of any prophylaxis and appropriate prophylactic method was 14.3% (19.0% vs 9.3%) and 10.3% (11.8% vs 6.0%) in surgical and medical patients.Conclusions: A large proportion of hospitalized patients reported VTE risk and low rate of CHEST-recommended prophylaxis. The data highlight the insufficient management of VTE risk and show the great potential for improving physicians' awareness and current practices across China.Trial Registry: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry; No.: ChiCTR-OOC-16010187; URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=17077. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of esomeprazole in preventing upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in critically ill Chinese patients, using cimetidine as an active comparator.Methods: A pre-specified non-inferiority limit (5%) was used to compare rates of significant upper GI bleeding in this randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, phase 3 study across 27 intensive care units in China. Secondary endpoints included safety and tolerability measures. Patients required mechanical ventilation and had at least one additional risk factor for stress ulcer bleeding. Patients were randomized to receive either active esomeprazole 40 mg, as a 30-min intravenous (IV) infusion twice daily, and an IV placebo cimetidine infusion or active cimetidine 50 mg/h, as a continuous infusion following an initial bolus of 300 mg, and placebo esomeprazole injections, given up to 14 days. Patients were blinded using this double-dummy technique.Results: Of 274 patients, 2.7% with esomeprazole and 4.6% with cimetidine had significant upper GI bleeding (bright red blood in the gastric tube not clearing after lavage or persistent Gastroccult-positive "coffee grounds" material). Non-inferiority of esomeprazole to cimetidine was demonstrated. The safety profiles of both drugs were similar and as expected in critically ill patients.Conclusions: Esomeprazole is effective in preventing upper GI bleeding in critically ill Chinese patients, as demonstrated by the non-inferiority analysis using cimetidine as an active control.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02157376. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As promising candidates of power resources, electrochemical energy storage (EES) devices have drawn more and more attention due to their ease of use, environmental friendliness, and high transformation efficiency. The performances of EES devices, such as lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, and supercapacitors, depend largely on the inherent properties of electrode materials. On account of the outstanding properties of graphene, a lot of studies have been carried out on two-dimensional (2D) materials. Over the past few years, a new exfoliation method has been utilized to successfully prepare a new family of 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides, termed MXene, from layered precursors. Moreover, some unique EES properties of MXene have been discovered. With rapid research progress on this field, a timely account about the applications of MXene in the EES fields is highly necessary. In this article, the research progress on the preparation, electrochemical performance, and mechanism analysis of MXene is summarized and discussed. We also propose some personal prospects for the further development of this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated factor 2 (TRAF2) is a key effector in the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB). Nevertheless, the role of TRAF2 in gastric tumorigenesis remains little defined. Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to find the relationship between TRAF2 expression and clinicopathological characteristics of gastric cancer patients, and nomogram was applied to predict the overall survival of patients. Besides, we performed transwell assays to detect the function of TRAF2 in promoting metastasis and explored the correlations between TRAF2, NF‐κB, and interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) in vitro. In addition, we examined the correlation between TRAF2 and tumor microenvironment by immunohistochemistry staining. Results: In our study, we found that TRAF2 expression was markedly increased in gastric cancer tissues. High intratumoral TRAF2 staining, which was associated with tumor invasion and metastasis, was also an independent poor prognosticator for gastric cancer patients. In vitro studies revealed that TRAF2 enhanced NF‐κB activation and subsequent IL‐8 expression in gastric cancer cells. Inhibition of NF‐κB or IL‐8 signaling attenuated TRAF2‐induced migration and invasion abilities. High TRAF2 expression was confirmed to be associated with both high intratumoral and serum levels of IL‐8. In addition, TRAF2 expression was positively correlated with neutrophil and macrophage infiltration as well as microvessels formation in gastric cancer samples. Conclusions: These results suggest that TRAF2 functions as an important modulator in tumor metastasis and tumor microenvironment formation and is a novel independent prognostic factor of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prognosis for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains extremely poor. Recent studies have focused on the role of lymphocytes in the PDAC microenvironment. Using immunohistochemistry, our study explored the clinical significance of intratumoral or peritumoral CD4Foxp3 regulatory T cells (Tregs) and CD8 T cells in the tumor microenvironment and analyzed their relation to the prognosis of PDAC in a consecutive series of 92 patients after resection. CD8 T cells were more frequently seen within peritumoral sites, while CD4Foxp3 Tregs were more frequent within intratumoral areas. Neither exhibited any relationship with other clinicopathologic factors. Patients with low levels of intratumoral Tregs had longer disease-free survival than those with higher levels (DFS 22.2 vs. 11.2 months, p < 0.001), and patients with higher levels of peritumoral CD8 T cells had longer overall survival than those with lower levels (OS 31.0 vs. 14.2 months, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that intratumoral Tregs (hazard ratio, HR 3.39, p = 0.010) and peritumoral CD8 T cells (HR 0.10, p < 0.001) are related to DFS and OS, respectively. These results indicate that intratumoral Tregs are a negative predictor of DFS, while peritumoral CD8 T cells are a positive predictor of OS for PDAC patients with pancreatectomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) integrates evidence-based interventions to reduce surgical stress and accelerate rehabilitation. Our study was to compare the short-term quality of life (QOL) in patients undergoing open colonic surgery using ERAS program or conventional management.Methods: A prospective study of 57 patients using ERAS program and 60 patients using conventional management was conducted. The clinical characteristics of all patients were recorded. QOL was evaluated longitudinally using the questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CR29) pre- and postoperatively. Generalized estimating equation was used to do the analysis in order to determine the effective impact of correlative factors on the postoperative QOL, including age, sex, BMI, ASA grade, tumor location, tumor size, pTNM stage, recovery program and length of time after surgery.Results: The morbidity in ERAS and control group was 17.5 versus 26.7 % (p = 0.235). The patients in ERAS group had much faster rehabilitation and less hospital stay. In the primary statistical analysis, the scores of global QOL (on POD3, POD6, POD10, POD14, POD21), physical functioning (on POD3, POD6, POD10, POD14, POD21), role functioning (on POD6, POD10, POD14, POD21), emotional functioning (on POD3, POD6, POD10, POD14, POD21), cognitive functioning (on POD3, POD6) and social functioning (on POD3, POD6, POD10, POD14, POD21, POD28) were higher in ERAS group than in control group, which suggested that the patients in ERAS group had a better life status. However, the scores of pain (on POD10, POD14, POD21), appetite loss (on POD3, POD6), constipation (on POD3, POD6, POD10), diarrhea (on POD3, POD10), financial difficulties (on POD10, POD14, POD21), perspective of future health (on POD6, POD10, POD14), gastrointestinal tract problems (on POD3, POD6, POD10) and defecation problems (on POD6, POD10, POD14) were lower in ERAS group than in control group, which revealed that the patients in ERAS group suffered less symptoms. In the further generalized estimating equation analysis, the result showed that recovery program and length of time after surgery had independently positive impact on the patient's postoperative QOL.Conclusion: Short-term QOL in patients undergoing colonic cancer using ERAS program was better than that using conventional management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: CXC chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) has been reported to play an important role in the proliferation and invasion of gastric cancer cells. The present study aims to investigate the impact of CXCR2 expression on the overall survival (OS) of gastric cancer patients after radical resection.Methods: Intratumoral CXCR2 expression was evaluated with immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays containing tumor samples of 357 gastric cancer patients from a single center. CXCR2 expression levels were correlated to clinicopathological variables and OS.Results: CXCR2 expression was mainly located in the cytoplasm of gastric carcinoma cells. High CXCR2 expression was associated with poor tumor differentiation (p = 0.021), increased tumor depth (p < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001), advanced TNM stage (p < 0.001) and short OS (p = 0.001). CXCR2 expression was an independent prognostic factor for OS (p = 0.001) in multivariate analysis, and could be combined with TNM stage to generate a predictive nomogram for clinical outcome in patients with gastric cancer.Conclusion: Intratumoral CXCR2 expression is a novel independent predictor for survival in gastric cancer patients. CXCR2 might be a promising therapeutic target of postoperative adjuvant treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The optimal timing of resection for synchronous colorectal liver metastases is still controversial. Retrospective cohort studies always had baseline imbalances in comparing simultaneous resection with staged strategy. Significantly more patients with mild conditions received simultaneous resections. Previous published meta-analyses based on these studies did not correct these biases, resulting in low reliability. Our meta-analysis was conducted to compensate for this deficiency and find candidates for each surgical strategy. Methods: A systemic search for major databases and relevant journals from January 2000 to April 2013 was performed. The primary outcomes were postoperative mortality, morbidity, overall survival and disease-free survival. Other outcomes such as number of patients need blood transfusion and length of hospital stay were also assessed. Baseline analyses were conducted to find and correct potential confounding factors. Results: 22 studies with a total of 4494 patients were finally included. After correction of baseline imbalance, simultaneous and staged resections were similar in postoperative mortality (RR = 1.14, P = 0.52), morbidity (RR = 1.02, P = 0.85), overall survival (HR = 0.96, P = 0.50) and disease-free survival (HR = 0.97, P = 0.87). Only in pulmonary complications, simultaneous resection took a significant advantage (RR = 0.23, P = 0.003). The number of liver metastases was the major factor interfering with selecting surgical strategies. With >3 metastases, simultaneous and staged strategies were almost the same in morbidity (49.4% vs. 50.9%). With ≤3 metastases, staged resection caused lower morbidity (13.8% vs. 17.2%), not statistically significant. Conclusions: The number of liver metastases was the major confounding factor for postoperative morbidity, especially in staged resections. Without baseline imbalances, simultaneous took no statistical significant advantage in safety and efficacy. Considering the inherent limitations of this meta-analysis, the results should be interpret and applied prudently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] MSC s exert beneficial paracrine actions on the injured islets is proposed. [•] The beneficial actions rely on the increasing number of beta cells. [•] Both beta cell replication and islet stem cell differentiation contribute to beta cell regeneration. [•] PI3K/Akt signal pathway plays a critical role in beta cell proliferation after MSCs transplantation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Inhibitors of nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway have shown potential anti-tumor activities. However, it is not fully elucidated in gastric cancer.Methods: Firstly, we screened the inhibitory effect of pharmacologic NF-κB inhibitors on cell viability of human gastric cancer cells via CCK-8 assay. Next, cell apoptosis, cell cycle distribution, and mitochondrial membrane potential after BAY 11-7082 treatment were detected by annexin V staining, propidium iodide staining, TUNEL, and JC-1 assays in human gastric cancer HGC-27 cells. Expression of regulatory factors for apoptosis and cell cycle were measured by western blot. Finally, human gastric cancer xenograft model was established to verify the anti-tumor effects of BAY 11-7082 in vivo. Cellular apoptosis and growth inhibition in subcutaneous tumor section were detected by TUNEL and immunohistochemistry assays.Results: BAY 11-7082 exhibited rapid and potent anti-tumor effects on gastric cancer cells in vitro within a panel of NF-κB inhibitors. BAY 11-7082 induced rapid apoptosis in HGC-27 cells through activating the mitochondrial pathway, as well as down-regulation of Bcl-2 and up-regulation of Bax. BAY 11-7082 also induced S phase arrest through suppressing Cyclin A and CDK-2 expression. Xenograft model confirmed the anti-tumor effects of BAY 11-7082 on apoptosis induction and growth inhibition in vivo.Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that BAY 11-7082 presented the most rapid and potent anti-tumor effects within a panel of NF-κB inhibitors, and could induce cellular apoptosis and block cell cycle progression both in vitro and in vivo, thus providing basis for clinical application of BAY 11-7082 in gastric cancer cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inhibitors of nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway have shown potential anti-tumor activities. However, it is not fully elucidated in gastric cancer. Methods: Firstly, we screened the inhibitory effect of pharmacologic NF-κB inhibitors on cell viability of human gastric cancer cells via CCK-8 assay. Next, cell apoptosis, cell cycle distribution, and mitochondrial membrane potential after BAY 11-7082 treatment were detected by annexin V staining, propidium iodide staining, TUNEL, and JC-1 assays in human gastric cancer HGC-27 cells. Expression of regulatory factors for apoptosis and cell cycle were measured by western blot. Finally, human gastric cancer xenograft model was established to verify the anti-tumor effects of BAY 11-7082 in vivo. Cellular apoptosis and growth inhibition in subcutaneous tumor section were detected by TUNEL and immunohistochemistry assays. Results: BAY 11-7082 exhibited rapid and potent anti-tumor effects on gastric cancer cells in vitro within a panel of NF-κB inhibitors. BAY 11-7082 induced rapid apoptosis in HGC-27 cells through activating the mitochondrial pathway, as well as down-regulation of Bcl-2 and up-regulation of Bax. BAY 11-7082 also induced S phase arrest through suppressing Cyclin A and CDK-2 expression. Xenograft model confirmed the anti-tumor effects of BAY 11-7082 on apoptosis induction and growth inhibition in vivo. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that BAY 11-7082 presented the most rapid and potent anti-tumor effects within a panel of NF-κB inhibitors, and could induce cellular apoptosis and block cell cycle progression both in vitro and in vivo, thus providing basis for clinical application of BAY 11-7082 in gastric cancer cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Whether patients with resectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) receive survival benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy remains controversial. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 466 patients with resectable CRLM between 2000 and 2010. Patient characteristics and survival data were recorded. Results: The patients were divided into one group with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (group NC, n = 121) and another without (group WN, n = 345). There was no difference in 5-year survival (52% vs. 48%) between the two groups. No significant differences were identified between the two groups in terms of 30-day mortality (1.7% vs. 1.2%) or morbidity (33.9% vs. 25.8%). A primary tumor at stage T4, ≥4 liver metastases, the largest liver metastasis ≥5 cm in diameter, and a serum CEA level ≥5 ng/ml were independent prognostic factors. By assigning one point to each, the patients were divided into a low-risk group (0–2) and a high-risk (3–4). The patients in the low-risk group received no survival benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy, whereas those in the high-risk group received survival benefit (5-year survival, 39% vs. 33%, P = 0.028). Conclusions: Preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy did not increase mortality or complications. Not all resectable patients, only those with >2 independent risk factors, received survival benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: There are currently no accurate predictive markers of metachronous liver metastasis (MLM) from colorectal cancer. Methods: Magnetic bead–based fractionation coupled with mass spectrometry analysis was used to compare serum samples from 64 patients with MLM and 64 without recurrence or metastasis for at least 3 y after radical colorectal surgery (NM). A total of 40 MLM and 40 NM serum samples were randomly selected to build a decision tree, and the remainder were tested as blinded samples. Selected peptides were identified. Results: The patients in the two groups were matched for gender, age, tumor location, TNM staging, and histologic differentiation grade. Preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen retained no independent power to predict MLM. The decision tree model with eight proteomic features (m/z 3315, 6637, 1207, 1466, 4167, 4210, 2660, and 4186) correctly classified 33 of 40 NM sera (82.5%) and 32 of 40 MLM sera (80%) in the training set and 19 of 24 NM sera (79.2%) and 17 of 24 MLM sera (70.8%) in the test set. The peptides were identified as fragments of alpha-fetoprotein, complement C4-A, fibrinogen alpha, eukaryotic peptide chain release factor GTP-binding subunit ERF3B, and angiotensinogen. Conclusions: In patients matched for gender, age, tumor location, TNM staging, and histologic differentiation grade, preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen retained no independent power to predict MLM. The decision tree model of eight proteomic features demonstrated promising value for predicting MLM in patients who underwent radical resection of colorectal cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The objectives of this study were to assess the toxicity and immunological response induced by the intra-dermal (i.d.) administration of MUC1-peptide-pulsed dendritic cells (DCs) in advanced pancreatic cancer patients. Patients with recurrent lesions or metastasis after surgery, and immunohistochemistry positive for MUC1 were treated in cohorts that received 3-6 × 10 DCs i.d. for three or four vaccines. Each vaccine was composed of autologus DCs pulsed with MUC1-peptide. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) that harvested 2 weeks after the second immunization were compared with PBMCs obtained before treatment for immunological response. Serial ELISPOT assays of PBMCs for antitumor reactivity were performed. Three patients received all four vaccines, and four patients received three vaccines. These patients were evaluable for toxicity and immunological monitoring. There were no grade 3 or 4 toxicities associated with the vaccines or major evidence of autoimmunity. Interferon-γ and granzyme B ELISPOT assay reactivity increased significantly in 2 of 7 patients ( P < 0.05). The administration of MUC1-peptide-pulsed DCs is non-toxic and capable of inducing immunological response to tumor antigen MUC1 in advanced pancreatic cancer patients. Additional studies are necessary to improve tumor rejection responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this trial was to compare the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) program with conventional perioperative management in patients who underwent radical resection for colorectal cancer. Methods: A combination of evidence-based and consensus methodology was used to develop the ERAS protocol. Five hundred ninety-seven consecutive patients who underwent elective colorectal resection were randomized to either the ERAS ( n = 299) or the control group ( n = 298). Outcomes relating to nutrition and metabolism index, stress index, and recovery index were measured and recorded. Results: Demographic and operative data were similar between the two groups. Patients in the ERAS group showed improved nutritional status when compared with those of the control group. On postoperative day (POD) 1, the HOMA-IR (insulin resistance index) of the ERAS group was lower than that of the control group ( p < 0.001). The cortisol level of the control group was elevated on both POD 1 ( p = 0.007) and POD 5 ( p = 0.002) compared to the preoperative level. However, the cortisol level of the ERAS group was not increased until POD 5 ( p = 0.001). Reduced levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IFN-γ in the ERAS group indicated less postoperative stress responses. In addition, ERAS was associated with accelerated recovery of gastrointestinal function. The postoperative length of stay ( p < 0.001) and expense ( p < 0.001) for the ERAS group were reduced in comparison to the controls. Twenty-eight cases in the control group and twenty-nine in the ERAS group suffered complications, which was not significantly different. Conclusion: The ERAS protocol attenuates the surgical stress response and accelerates postoperative recovery without compromising patient safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Purpose: The aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship between SLC22A18 expression and clinicopathologic features while investigate the prognostic value of SLC22A18 expression in breast cancer after surgery. Specimens and methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to examine SLC22A18 protein expression in the breast tumors. Prognostic value of SLC22A18 protein and other clinicopathologic factors were evaluated. The Kaplan–Meier method and the Cox proportional hazards model were used to predict factors with a significant independent prognostic value. Digital image analysis was employed to quantify immunostaining. Results: SLC22A18 expression was correlated with tumor size, lymph node metastasis, clinical stage, and extensive lyphovascular invasion. The results of Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated that SLC22A18 expression was associated with relapse-free survival (RFS) of breast cancer. The survival of higher expression SLC22A18 group had longer cum survival compared to the group with low expression. The difference was significant (p =0.003, log-rank test). Cox''s regression analysis showed that tumor size, lymph nodes metastasis, nuclear stage, extensive lymphovascular invasion, and SLC22A18 expression might be used as prognostic factor for RFS. Nuclear stage and SLC22A18 expression were the most meaningful histopathologic parameter in predicting tumor recurrence. Compared with the group of higher SLC22A18 expression, the lower expression group was more likely to relapse. The HR is 2.624 (p =0.035). Conclusion: Low expression of SLC22A18 was associated with tumor progression, recurrence and poor survival after breast surgery. Testing expression of SLC22A18 will be helpful for predicting prognosis in breast cancer. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Optimization of copper-based electrocatalyst is explored via structure and composition modulation. • Urchin-shaped CuFeMOFs are obtained in aqueous medium via rapid microwave-assisted synthesis. • The urchin-shaped CuFeMOF derived CuFeN/CNT catalyst shows greatly enhanced catalytic property. • The all-microwave-assisted preparation process minimizes use of toxic solvent and excessive energy. Most reported non-precious-metal catalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are composed of iron, cobalt, or nickel. Copper, on the other hand, is relatively neglected despite its versatility. In this paper, we describe a series of steps to enhance the OER efficiency of copper-based catalyst, including metal organic framework (MOF)-guided structure control, secondary metal doping, and nitridation. In particular, the effect of growth solvent on coordination kinetics and morphology of the precursor MOFs was studied in detail. The optimal MOF structure was further engineered with Fe doping followed by rapid microwave-assisted nitridation, resulting in CuFeN/CNT composite. Experimental results showed that all three engineering steps have significant impact on the enhanced OER efficiency. CuFeN/CNT composite with optimal Fe doping derived from urchin-shaped CuFeMOF exhibited a greatly enhanced OER performance comparable to that of precious metal catalyst, affording a current density as high as 236.3 mA at an overpotential of 420 mV (RuO 2, 215.3 mA). Furthermore, excellent stability in alkaline media was observed during 1000 cycles and chronopotentiometric analysis for over 20 hours. We highlight that the entire synthesis protocol is environmentally benign and sustainable by employing microwave to enable rapid formation and conversion of the precursors with minimal energy consumption. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The transplantation of bone marrow (BM) derived cells to initiate pancreatic regeneration is an attractive but as-yet unrealized strategy. Presently, BM derived cells from green fluorescent protein transgenic mice were transplanted into diabetic mice. Repair of diabetic islets was evidenced by reduction of hyperglycemia, increase in number of islets, and altered pancreatic histology. Cells in the pancreata of recipient mice co-expressed BrdU and insulin. Double staining revealed β cells were in the process of proliferation. BrdU+ insulin− PDX-1+ cells, Ngn3+ cells and insulin+ glucagon+ cells, which showed stem cells, were also found during β-cell regeneration. The majority of transplanted cells were mobilized to the islet and ductal regions. In recipient pancreas, transplanted cells simultaneously expressed CD34 but did not express insulin, PDX-1, Ngn3, Nkx2.2, Nkx6.1, Pax4, Pax6, and CD45. It is concluded that BM derived cells especially CD34+ cells can promote repair of pancreatic islets. Moreover, both proliferation of β cells and differentiation of pancreatic stem cells contribute to the regeneration of β cells. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Gallbladder carcinoma (GBC), an aggressive and mostly lethal malignancy, is known to be resistant to a number of drug stimuli. Here, we demonstrated that arsenic trioxide inhibited the proliferation of gallbladder carcinoma in vivo and in vitro as well as the transcription of cell cycle-related protein Cyclin D1. And, Cyclin D1 overexpression inhibited the negative role of arsenic trioxide in cell cycle progression. We further explored the mechanisms by which arsenic trioxide affected Cyclin D1 transcription and found that the Sp1 transcription factor was down-regulated by arsenic trioxide, with a corresponding decrease in Cyclin D1 promoter activity. Taken together, these results suggested that arsenic trioxide inhibited gallbladder carcinoma cell proliferation via down-regulation of Cyclin D1 transcription in a Sp1-dependent manner, which provided a new mechanism of arsenic trioxide-involved cell proliferation and may have important therapeutic implications in gallbladder carcinoma patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Aberrant chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor CXCR4 expressions in malignant tissues have been reported, but its role in gastric cancer prognosis remains unknown. Our studies were designed to investigate the expression and prognostic significance of CXCR4 in patients with gastric cancer. CXCR4 expression was retrospectively analyzed by immunohistochemistry in 97 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma from China. Results were assessed for association with clinical features and overall survival by using Kaplan-Meier analysis. Prognostic values of CXCR4 expression and clinical outcomes were evaluated by Cox regression analysis. A molecular prognostic stratification scheme incorporating CXCR4 expression was determined by using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The results show that CXCR4 predominantly localized in the cell membranes and cytoplasm. The protein level of CXCR4 was upregulation in gastric cancer tissues and upregulated expression of CXCR4 was only significantly associated with Lauren classification (P<0.001). Increased CXCR4 expression in gastric cancer tissues was positively correlated with poor overall survival of gastric cancer patients (P<0.001). Further multivariate Cox regression analysis suggested that intratumoral CXCR4 expression was an independent prognostic indicator for the disease. Applying the prognostic value of intratumoral CXCR4 density to TNM stage system showed a better prognostic value in patients with gastric cancer. In conclusion, intratumoral CXCR4 expression was recognized as an independent prognostic marker for the overall survival of patients with gastric cancer. On the basis of TNM stage, detection of CXCR4 expression will be helpful for predicting prognosis for patients with gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pancreatic cancer is a common, highly lethal disease with a rising incidence. MUC1 is a tumor-associated antigen that is over-expressed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Active immunotherapy that targets MUC1 could have great treatment value. Here we investigated the preventive and therapeutic effect of a MUC1 DNA vaccine on the pancreatic cancer.Methods: MUC1-various tandem repeat units(VNTR) DNA vaccine was produced by cloning one repeat of VNTR and inserting the cloned gene into the pcDNA3.1. In the preventive group, female C57BL/6 mice were immunized with the vaccine, pcDNA3.1 or PBS; and challenged with panc02-MUC1 or panc02 cell. In the therapeutic group the mice were challenged with panc02-MUC1 or panc02 cell, and then immunized with the vaccine, pcDNA3.1 or PBS. The tumor size and the survival time of the animals were compared between these groups.Results: The DNA vaccine pcDNA3.1-VNTR could raise cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity specific for MUC1. In the preventive experiment, the mice survival time was significantly longer in the vaccine group than in the control groups (P < 0.05). In the therapeutic experiment, the DNA vaccine prolonged the survival time of the panc02-MUC1-bearing mice (P < 0.05). In both the preventive and therapeutic experiments, the tumor size was significantly less in the vaccine group than in the control groups (P < 0.05). This pcDNA3.1-VNTR vaccine, however, could not prevent the mice attacked by panc02 cells and had no therapeutic effect on the mice attacked by panc02 cells.Conclusion: The MUC1 DNA vaccine pcDNA3.1-VNTR could induce a significant MUC1-specific CTL response; and had both prophylactic and therapeutic effect on panc02-MUC1 tumors. This vaccine might be used as a new adjuvant strategy against pancreatic cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]