[The inhibition of 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid on thymic stromal lymphopoietin expression in the nasal mucosa of allergic rhinitis rats]

Objective: To explore the effect of 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid on thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) in nasal mucosa of allergic rhinitis (AR) rats. Methods: One hundred Wistar rats,half male and half female,were randomly divided into 5 groups by random number table method: control group, AR model group,budesonide group,18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid at dose of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg groups, with 20 rats in each group. AR animal models were established by ovalbumin (OVA) sensitization in the other four experimental groups. After successful modeling, budesonide and 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid were given in each group,and the detection time points were 2 weeks and 4 weeks. The distribution of TSLP in rat nasal mucosa was detected by immunohistochemistry,and the expression of TSLP in rat nasal mucosa was determined by Western blot at the protein level. The expression of TSLP-mRNA in rat nasal mucosa was detected and compared by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) at mRNA level. The concentrations of IL-4 and OVA-sIgE in rat serum were measured and compared by ELISA. One-way analysis of variance and the least significant difference method were used for the comparison among groups, LSD t test was used for the comparison between the two groups,and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Results: Immunohistochemistry confirmed existence of TSLP in rat nasal mucosa, especially in epithelial cells,endothelial cells and epithelial cilia. Western blot and RT-PCR suggested that the expression of TSLP and TSLP-mRNA in nasal mucosa of AR model group was significantly higher than that of control group (2 weeks TSLP: 1.795 9±0.131 4 vs 0.990 5±0.164 2, 4 weeks TSLP: 1.809 7±0.253 4 vs 0.870 3±0.124 4; 2 weeks TSLP-mRNA:4.582 9±0.697 7 vs 1.108 7±0.081 1, 4 weeks TSLP-mRNA:4.814 4±0.662 8 vs 1.001 0±0.155 3; all P<0.05). After 2 weeks and 4 weeks of drug intervention,the expression of TSLP and TSLP-mRNA was inhibited in nasal mucosa of budesonide group,18β-sodium sodium glycyrrhetinic acid at dose of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg group,which was significantly different from that of AR model group (2 weeks TSLP: (0.897 8±0.081 8)/(1.072 1±0.113 6)/(1.396 6±0.133 9) vs 1.795 9±0.131 4; 4 weeks TSLP: (1.191 0±0.161 3)/(1.141 0±0.152 3)/(1.200 5±0.189 6) vs 1.809 7±0.253 4; 2 weeks TSLP-mRNA: (1.175 6±0.100 9)/(1.254 4±0.078 2)/(2.037 2±0.559 2) vs 4.582 9±0.697 7; 4 weeks TSLP-mRNA: (1.158 3±0.104 3)/(1.224 0±0.034 0)/(1.275 2±0.099 6) vs 4.814 4±0.662 8; all P<0.05), and not significantly different from control group. With the inhibition of TSLP, the concentrations of IL-4 and OVA-sIgE in rat serum were also decreased. Conclusion: 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid has obvious inhibitory effect on TSLP in nasal mucosa of AR rats, which can control Th2 type immune inflammatory reaction.

[Effects of 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid on TNF-α expression in rats with allergic rhinitis]

Objective:To observe the effect of 18β-sodium glycyrrhetinic acid(18β-SGA) on the expression of TNF-α in nasal mucosa of rats with allergic rhinitis（AR）, and explore the intervention mechanism of 18β-SGA on AR. Method:One hundred and six SPF-level Wistar rats were randomly divided into control group, AR group, budesonide group, 18β-SGA low dose group and high dose group. After the AR rat model was constructed by ovalbumin, the rats were given drug intervention and sacrificed after 2 and 4 weeks of intervention. The nasal mucosa of the rats was taken for immunohistochemical staining, RT-qPCR and Western-blotting to localize and quantify the expression of TNF-α. Result:By immunohistochemistry, Western-blotting and RT-PCR, TNF-α was mainly found in the columnar epithelium, vascular endothelium, glandular and some inflammatory cytoplasm of nasal mucosa. And the expression of TNF-α in the nasal mucosa of AR rats was significantly increased than the normal group at the protein and mRNA levels (P<0.01). After intervention with different doses of 18β-SGA, the expression of TNF-α was significantly decreased (P<0.01), especially after 4 weeks of 18β-SGA low dose group(P<0.01). Conclusion:Different doses of 18β-SGA have therapeutic effects on AR, and its mechanism of action may be related to the inhibition of TNF-α expression.

[Effectiveness of P-Gemox chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy in newly diagnosed,stage ⅠE to ⅡE, extranodal nasal type natural killer/T-cell lymphoma]

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of pegaspargase, gemcitabine, and oxaliplatin(P-Gemox) chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy in the treatment of newly diagnosed, stage IE to IIE of Extranodal nasal type natural killer/T-cell lymphoma(ENKTL) patients.Method: P-Gemox chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy was used to analyze its clinical value and the factors affecting the prognosis in the treatment of 43 newly diagnosed ENKTL patients. In addition, toxicity related to chemotherapy was assessed. Result: The complete remission rate was 86.05% in 43 patients,the partial remission rate was 6.98%, and the total effective rate was 93.02%.Chi-square analysis showed tumor diameter, clinical stage and ECOG points were significant independent factors impacting on complete remission rate(P =0.025, 0.042, 0.037).The 1-year and 3-year overall survival rate and progression-free survival rate of 43 patients were 95.35% and 83.7%, 93.02% and 79.07%, respectively. Coxproportional analysis showed that tumor diameter and Ann Arbor stage were signifcant factors affecting overall survival(P =0.016,0.025).Adverse reactions caused by the P-Gemox chemotherapy regimen are mild and more common in grades I to II. Conclusion: The P-Gemox regimen combined with radiotherapy may be a promising option in the treatment of newly-diagnosed ENKTL due to its high efficacy yet low toxicity, and clinical stage has an important effect on CR and OS.

Generating Defect-Rich Bismuth for Enhancing the Rate of Nitrogen Electroreduction to Ammonia

The electrochemical N₂ fixation, which is far from practical application in aqueous solution under ambient conditions, is extremely challenging and requires a rational design of electrocatalytic centers. We observed that bismuth (Bi) might be a promising candidate for this task because of its weak binding with H adatoms, which increases the selectivity and production rate. Furthermore, we successfully synthesized defect-rich Bi nanoplates as an efficient noble-metal-free N₂ reduction electrocatalyst via a low-temperature plasma bombardment approach. When exclusively using ¹ H NMR measurements with N₂ gas as a quantitative testing method, the defect-rich Bi(110) nanoplates achieved a ¹⁵ NH₃ production rate of 5.453 μg mg_Bi ^-1  h^-1 and a Faradaic efficiency of 11.68 % at -0.6 V vs. RHE in aqueous solution at ambient conditions.

[NVP-BKM120 in combination with letrozole inhibit human breast cancer stem cells via PI3K/mTOR pathway]

Objective: Breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) have been suggested to have clinical implications for cancer therapeutics because of their proposed role in chemo-resistance. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of BCSC on endocrine therapy response by regulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Methods: We evaluated the susceptibility of BCSC to NVP-BKM120 (BKM120), a new generation of PI3K-specific inhibitor, when used individually or in combination with letrozole in vivo. For this, a stem-like cell population (SC) was enriched from breast cancer cell line MCF-7 after mammosphere cultures. We have constructed high aromatase expression BCSC (BCSC-CYP19) and non-stem cells (MCF-7-CYP19) subcloning. We demonstrate BKM120 inhibits growth, generation of drug-resistant derivatives and SC formation in BCSC-CYP19 and MCF-7-CYP19. Result: BKM120 could inhibit BCSC-CYP19 growth by dose-dependence, reduce migration and colony formation of BCSC-CYP19, and also significantly reduced expression of PI3K, Akt1 and S6. Combined BKM120 and letrozolecaninhibit BCSC-CYP19 growth and proliferation, make BCSC-CYP19 stayed in G0-G1 phase increasing significantly to induce early apoptosis, and down-regulate expression of PI3K, Akt1 and S6. Conclusion: PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway effects on letrozole resistance by regulating BCBSs characteristics. Combination of PI3K inhibitor BKM120 and letrozole could reduce letrozole resistance.

[Joint effect of smoking and diabetes on stroke]

Objective: To explore the interaction of smoking and diabetes on stroke. Methods: In this case-control study, a face to face questionnaire survey was conducted. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the relationship between smoking or diabetes and stroke. The indicators of interaction were calculated according to the Bootstrap method in this study. Results: A total of 918 cases and 918 healthy controls, who participated in the chronic disease risk factor survey in Xuzhou in 2013, were included in this study. Logistic regression analysis found that cigarette smoking was associated with stroke (OR=1.63, 95%CI: 1.33-2.00), and diabetes was also associated with stroke (OR=2.75, 95%CI: 2.03-3.73) after adjusting confounders. Compared with those without diabetes and smoking habit, the odds ratio of stroke in those with diabetes and smoking habits was 8.94 (95%CI:3.77-21.19). Diabetes and smoking combined interaction index was 3.65 (95%CI: 1.68-7.94), the relative excess risk was 5.77 (95%CI: 0.49-11.04), the attributable proportion was 0.65 (95%CI: 0.42-0.87). Conclusion: The results suggest that there are additive interactions between smoking and diabetes on stroke.

[Experiences of esophageal replacement with ileocolon graft: a series of 34 cases]

Objective: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of esophageal replacement with ileocolon graft. Methods: Totally 34 cases of esophageal replacement with ileocolon graft from July 2015 to November 2017 at Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University were analyzed retrospectively, including 24 male and 10 female, aging from 7 to 72 years old. Esophageal replacement with ileocolon graft by right and/or middle colic artery as a blood supply using retrosternal route except one subcutaneous route. The primary esophageal disease, postoperative complication rate and quality of life were analyzed. Results: The overall postoperative complication rate was 23.5% (8/34), cervical anastomotic leakage rate of 5.9% (2/34), necrosis of colon graft of 5.9% (2/34). There were 3 patients experienced re-operation including 2 patients with colon graft necrosis and 1 patient with intestinal obstruction after ERC. One patient with colon graft necrosis died of septic shock after reoperation. Six cases of cervical esophago-jejunal anastomosis stenosis and 1 case of diarrhea occurred in the later time. All patients were followed up for a median time of 9 months (range: 1 to 28 months), 32 cases survived but 1 patient died until last follow-up by the end of December 2017. Conclusion: Esophageal replacement with ileocolon graft by right and/or middle colic artery as a blood supply using retrosternal route was safe and effective.

[Adrenal androgen measurement for assessing the selectivity of adrenal venous sampling in primary aldosteronism]

Objective: To investigate the usefulness of adrenal androgens for assessing the selectivity of adrenal venous sampling (AVS). Methods: Between January 2010 and December 2016, 37 consecutive patients [with an average age of (47±14) years, 16 males and 21 females] with primary aldosteronism (PA) who underwent AVS were enrolled. AVS procedures were performed with the bilateral simultaneous technique without cosyntropin stimulation. Cortisol, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and DHEA sulfate (DHEAS) concentrations were measured in adrenal venous (AV) and peripheral venous (PV) samples, respectively. Results: The selectivity index (SI) based on androstenedione and DHEA was higher than that of cortisol (SI-left: 13.9, 13.1 vs 6.05, P=0.006, 0.035; SI-right: 30.4, 18.5 vs 11.6, P=0.028, 0.051). However, the SI based on DHEAS was lower than that of cortisol (SI-left: 1.3 vs 6.0, P=0.002; SI-right: 1.5 vs 11.6, P=0.038). Plasma androstenedione and DHEA concentrations were positively correlated with cortisol and aldosterone in AV samples (all P<0.001). Compared to cortisol, the variation ratio of AV androstenedione and DHEA was lower from t(-15) to t(0) (0.23, 0.43 vs 0.52, both P<0.05). Using the receiver operating characteristic curve, a SI ≥ 3.0 for androstenedione or DHEA provided optimal sensitivity(97.7%, 91.9%) and specificity (93.8%, 93.8%) in AVS. Conclusion: Given the greater AV/PV ratios and reduced variability compared to cortisol, the adrenal androgens androstenedione and DHEA are useful for assessing the selectivity of AVS without cosyntropin stimulation and may be superior analytes in conditions with marked variability of cortisol levels or with adrenocortical tumors co-secreting cortisol and aldosterone.

Primary vs myocutaneous flap closure of perineal defects following abdominoperineal resection for colorectal disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

Perineal wound complications after abdominoperineal resection (APR) have become a major clinical challenge. Myocutaneous flap closure has been proposed in place of primary closure to improve wound healing. We conducted this comprehensive meta-analysis to evaluate the current scientific evidence of primary closure vs myocutaneous flap closure of perineal defects following APR for colorectal disease.

METHODS

We systematically searched the MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases to identify all relevant studies. After data extraction from the included studies, meta-analysis was performed to compare perioperative outcomes of primary closure and myocutaneous flap closure.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies with a total of 17 913 patients (16 346 primary closure vs 1567 myocutaneous flap closure) were included. We found that primary closure was significantly associated with higher total perineal wound complications (P = 0.007), major perineal wound complications (P < 0.001) and perineal wound infection (P = 0.001). On the other hand, myocutaneous flap closure takes more operation time (P < 0.001) and increases the risk of perineal wound dehiscence (P = 0.01), deep surgical site infection (P < 0.001), enterocutaneous fistulas (P = 0.03) and return to the operating room (P = 0.0005). There were no significant differences between the two groups for other outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first systematic review with meta-analysis comparing primary closure with myocutaneous flap closure of perineal defects after APR for colorectal disease. Although taking more operation time and an increased risk of specific complications, the pooled results have validated the use of myocutaneous flaps for reducing total/major perineal wound complications. More investigations are needed to draw definitive conclusions on this dilemma.

N-Doped C@Zn3 B2 O6 as a Low Cost and Environmentally Friendly Anode Material for Na-Ion Batteries: High Performance and New Reaction Mechanism

Na-ion batteries (NIBs) are ideal candidates for solving the problem of large-scale energy storage, due to the worldwide sodium resource, but the efforts in exploring and synthesizing low-cost and eco-friendly anode materials with convenient technologies and low-cost raw materials are still insufficient. Herein, with the assistance of a simple calcination method and common raw materials, the environmentally friendly and nontoxic N-doped C@Zn₃ B₂ O₆ composite is directly synthesized and proved to be a potential anode material for NIBs. The composite demonstrates a high reversible charge capacity of 446.2 mAh g^-1 and a safe and suitable average voltage of 0.69 V, together with application potential in full cells (discharge capacity of 98.4 mAh g^-1 and long cycle performance of 300 cycles at 1000 mA g^-1 ). In addition, the sodium-ion storage mechanism of N-doped C@Zn₃ B₂ O₆ is subsequently studied through air-insulated ex situ characterizations of X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and is found to be rather different from previous reports on borate anode materials for NIBs and lithium-ion batteries. The reaction mechanism is deduced and proposed as: Zn₃ B₂ O₆ + 6Na⁺ + 6e^- ⇋ 3Zn + B₂ O₃ ∙ 3Na₂ O, which indicates that the generated boracic phase is electrochemically active and participates in the later discharge/charge progress.

[Microcystic, elongated and fragmented invasion pattern in endometrial carcinoma: the clinicopathology analysis]

Objective: To assess the clinical value for the clinicopathological features of microcystic elongated and fragmented (MELF) invasion in endometrial carcinoma (EEC) . Methods: The clinicopathological data of 108 cases of endometrial carcinoma with total hysterectomy, bilateral adnexectomy, and pelvic dissection were retrospectively analysis in Peking University People's Hospital from April 2015 to October 2016. Twenty-five patients with endometrial carcinoma showing MELF invasion pattern were collected. We analyzed retrospectively the association of MELF pattern invasion with clinical pathology data and prognosis of the patients, partial immunohistochemical staining was implemented. MELF invasion was a special invasion pattern and characterized by microcystic, elongated, fragmented (composed of cluster cells) gland in muscular layer. Results: The incidence rate was 23.1% (25/108). These patients mean age was (59.3±10.9) years old. Four cases were premenopausal, and 21 were postmenopausal. Abnormal vaginal bleeding was the main clinical presentation. The lesions tend to appear adjacent to the tumor body. Sometimes, it may be appears away from the tumor body in the deep muscle layer.Lymph node metastasis were present in 5 cases (20%, 5/25). Thirteen cases (52%, 13/25) of them demonstrated lymph vascular space involvement (LVSI). The immunohischemical expression of ER,PR, Ki-67 and galectin-3 showing MELF invasion pattern were weaker than no showing MELF invasion pattern endometrial carcinoma, cktokeratin (CK) was showed diffuse strong positive expression, E-cadherin was moderately positive expression. All 25 cases were followed up for (23.2±5.9) months (14-33 months) after the therapy with no recurrence on metastasis. Conclusions: MELF invasion pattern is a special invasion pattern in low-grade EEC. The incidence of LVSI and lymph node metastasis rate in endometrial carcinoma with MELF invasion are significantly increased. The prognosis of MELF invasion pattern may be poor.

[Value of 18F-FDG PET/CT and PET in diagnosing and staging extranodal nasal type natural killer/T-cell lymphoma:A Meta-analysis]

Objective:The aim of this study is to comprehensively evaluate the values of 18F-FDG PET/CT and PET in diagnosing extranodal nasal type natural killer/T cell lymphoma (ENKTL). Method:Studies about ENKTL diagnosed by 18F-FDG PET/CT and PET until June 2018 were searched in the databases such as PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, CNKI, CBM, VIP and Wanfang. Two reviewers independently screened literature and extracted data strictly according to included and excluded criterion, and assessed bias risk by 11 items using QUADAS-2 gulidline. Meta-analysis was performed by Revmann 5.3 and Stata 12.0 software. The pooled weighted Sentivity (Sen), Specificity (Spe), Diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated,summary receiver operator curve (SROC) and area under SROC curve (AUC) were also drawn. Result:Ten studies with 457 patients and 5 092 foci on 18F-FDG PET/CT and 4 studies with 169 patients and 384 foci on PET were finally included in our Meta-analysis.Our research showed that pooled Sen, Spe, DOR and AUC of 18F-FDG PET/CT diagnosing ENKTL were 0.97 (95%CI 0.93-0.99), 0.97(95%CI 0.88-0.99), 1 131.07(95%CI 167.77-7 625.28), 0.99(95%CI 0.98-1.00), and they were 0.81 (95%CI 0.70-0.89), 0.90(95%CI 0.66-0.98), 39.63(95%CI 6.41-244.85), 0.86(95%CI 0.82-0.89), respectively. Z test result reveled that 18F-FDG PET/CT had better diagnostic value in detecting ENKTL compared to PET: AUC=0.99(95%CI 0.98-1.00) vs AUC=0.86(95%CI 0.82-0.89), Z=2.95, P=0.003. Conclusion:In comparasion with PET, 18F-FDG PET/CT had excellent diagnostic value in detecting and staging ENKTL and may served as a non-invasive imaging in diagnosing and staging ENKTL.

Organic Carbonyl Compounds for Sodium-Ion Batteries: Recent Progress and Future Perspectives

Sodium-organic batteries, which use organic materials as the electrodes in sodium-ion batteries, are an attractive alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries for next-generation sustainable and versatile energy storage devices owing to the abundant sodium resources and environmental friendly features. However, organics used in sodium-ion batteries also encounter some issues such as low redox potential, high solubility in the electrolyte, and low conductivity. In response, altering the aromatic system/attaching electron-withdrawing groups, constructing polymers, and incorporating a conductive matrix are effective strategies. This review summarizes and briefly discusses recent organic carbonyl compounds for sodium-organic batteries from the viewpoint of function-oriented design, including function evolution from small-molecule compounds to polymers, then composites, and finally flexible electrodes. In particular, as a timely overview, carbonyl-based organic flexible electrodes for sodium-organic batteries are also highlighted for the first time.

[Clinical application of CT-guided radiofrequency ablation combined with biopsy synchronously to multiple small nodules of lung metastatic tumors]

Objective: To investigate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of CT-guided radiofrequency ablation(RFA)combined with biopsy synchronously to multiple small nodules of metastatic tumors in lung. Method: From January 2016 to December 2016, a total of 86 patients in the General Hospital of People's Liberation Army with 144 lesions were divide into two groups(all the lesions were less than 1 cm). Group A with 51 cases located in the lung periphery underwent biopsy prior to RFA.Group B with 35 cases located in the middle and inner side of lung adjacent to the vasculatures contrarily underwent RFA first.The changes of these lesions during the 1 to 12-month were followed up. Results: All the procedures were completed successfully.The intra operative CT scanning showed the ablation zones were completely covered by the indicative "halo sign" respectively.The P value was 0.818, 0.155 and 0.452 respectively, in the number of nodules, pathological results positive rate and complications in the rank and inspection for A, B two groups, which were all higher than 0.05.Though different strategies according to different location of the nodes, the two groups can achieve safe and effective treatments.All patients in two groups had high density ablation zones on their 1-month post operative CT without enhancement.3-and 6-post operative CT illustrated a decrease of lesions, 12-month post operative CT showed the lesions turned to fibrous stripes. Conclusion: The CT-guided RFA combined with biopsy synchronously to multiple small nodules of metastatic tumors in lung is safe and effective, for the lesions located in the middle or inner side of lung, RFA prior to the biopsy can avoid the massive hemoptysis.

In Situ CVD Derived Co-N-C Composite as Highly Efficient Cathode for Flexible Li-O2 Batteries

To promote the development of high energy Li-O₂ batteries, it is important to design and construct a suitable and effective oxygen-breathing cathode. Herein, activated cobalt-nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube/carbon nanofiber composites (Co-N-CNT/CNF) as the effective cathodes for Li-O₂ batteries are prepared by in situ chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The unique architecture of these electrodes facilitates the rapid oxygen diffusion and electrolyte penetration. Meanwhile, the nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube/carbon nanofiber (N-CNT/CNF) and Co/CoN_x serve as reaction sites to promote the formation/decomposition of discharge product. Li-O₂ batteries with Co-N-CNT/CNF cathodes exhibit superior electrochemical performance in terms of a positive discharge plateau (2.81 V) and a low charge overpotential (0.61 V). Besides, Li-O₂ batteries also present a high discharge capacity (11512.4 mAh g^-1 at 100 mA g^-1 ), and a long cycle life (130 cycles). Meanwhile, the Co-N-CNT/CNF cathode also has an excellent flexibility, thus the assembled flexible battery with Co-N-CNT/CNF can work normally and hold a wonderful capacity rate under various bending conditions.

Recent Advances toward the Rational Design of Efficient Bifunctional Air Electrodes for Rechargeable Zn-Air Batteries

Large-scale application of renewable energy and rapid development of electric vehicles have brought unprecedented demand for advanced energy-storage/conversion technologies and equipment. Rechargeable zinc (Zn)-air batteries represent one of the most promising candidates because of their high energy density, safety, environmental friendliness, and low cost. The air electrode plays a key role in managing the many complex physical and chemical processes occurring on it to achieve high performance of Zn-air batteries. Herein, recent advances of air electrodes from bifunctional catalysts to architectures are summarized, and their advantages and disadvantages are discussed to underline the importance of progress in the evolution of bifunctional air electrodes. Finally, some challenges and the direction of future research are provided for the optimized design of bifunctional air electrodes to achieve high performance of rechargeable Zn-air batteries.

[A multicenter retrospective study for the prognosis of T1b stage gallbladder carcinoma underwent different surgical procedure]

Objective: To explore the prognosis of patients with T1b stage gallbladder carcinoma underwent different surgical procedure. Methods: The clinicopathological data of 97 patients with T1b stage gallbladder carcinoma came from 8 clinical centers from January 2010 to December 2016 and 794 patients who were admitted to the SEER database of USA from January 1973 to December 2014 were analyzed.There were 891 patients including 254 males and 637 females (1.0∶2.5) with age of (69.5±12.0)years. There were 380 patients who were less than 70 years old, 511 patients who were more than 70 years old. And there were 213 patients with the diameter of tumor less than 20 mm, 270 patients with the diameter of tumor more than 20 mm, 408 patients were unclear. There were 196 patients with well differentiation, 407 patients with moderately differentiation, 173 patients with poorly differentiation, 8 patients with undifferentiated, 107 patients were unclear. In the 891 patients with T1b stage gallbladder carcinoma, there were 562 cases accepted the simple cholecystectomy, 231 cases with simple cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy, and 98 cases with radical cholecystectomy. The time of follow-up were until June 2017. χ(2) test was used to analyze the enumeration data, rank-sum test was used to analyze the measurement data, the analyses of prognostic factors were used Cox proportional hazards model, the survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier method. Results: The results of Cox proportional hazards model indicated, age, differentiation, surgical procedure were the risk factors of prognostic(1.929(1.594-2.336), P<0.01; 1.842(1.404-2.416), P<0.01; 1.216(0.962-1.538), P<0.01). The results of Kaplan Meier test indicated, the overall survival of T1b stage gallbladder carcinoma were (85.5±3.8)months, the overall survival of patients with simple cholecystectomy were (71.3±4.4)months, the overall survival of patients with cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy were(87.6±5.8)months, and the overall survival of patients with radical cholecystectomy were(101.7±9.3)months. The overall survival of patients with cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy and radical cholecystectomy were more than simple cholecystectomy(P<0.05). There were 329 patients with Lymph nodes examined in and after operations(231 patients with cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy, 98 patients with radical cholecystectomy). There were 265 patients with negative lymph node metastasis, the overall survival were(98.3±4.2)months. There were 64 patients with positive lymph node metastasis, the overall survival were(75.5±3.1)months. The overall survival of 38 patients with cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy were(62.7±2.6) months, and 26 patients with radical cholecystectomy were (82.2±3.7)months. The overall survival of patients with radical cholecystectomy were more than cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy(P<0.05). Conclusions: The T1b stage gallbladder carcinoma patients with cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy or radical cholecystectomy has improved the prognosis comparing with simple cholecystectomy, significantly. When lymph node metastasis occurs, radical cholecystectomy has improved the prognosis comparing with cholecystectomy plus lymphadenectomy.

Can algae-based technologies be an affordable green process for biofuel production and wastewater remediation?

Algae is a well-known organism that its characteristic is prominent for biofuel production and wastewater remediation. This critical review aims to present the applicability of algae with in-depth discussion regarding three key aspects: (i) characterization of algae for its applications; (ii) the technical approaches and their strengths and drawbacks; and (iii) future perspectives of algae-based technologies. The process optimization and combinations with other chemical and biological processes have generated efficiency, in which bio-oil yield is up to 41.1%. Through life cycle assessment, algae bio-energy achieves high energy return than fossil fuel. Thus, the algae-based technologies can reasonably be considered as green approaches. Although selling price of algae bio-oil is still high (about $2 L^-1) compared to fossil fuel's price of $1 L^-1, it is expected that the algae bio-oil's price will become acceptable in the next coming decades and potentially dominate 75% of the market.

Decorating carbon nanofibers with Mo2C nanoparticles towards hierarchically porous and highly catalytic cathode for high-performance Li-O2 batteries

A facile synthesis of the hierarchically porous cathode with Mo₂C nanoparticles through the electrospinning technique and heat treatment is proposed. The carbonization temperature of the precursors is the key factor for the formation of Mo₂C nanoparticles on the carbon nanofibers (MCNFs). Compared with the Mo₂N nanoparticles embedded into N-doped carbon nanofibers film (MNNFs) and N-doped carbon nanofibers film (NFs), the battery with MCNFs cathode is capable of operation with a high-capacity (10,509 mAh g^-1 at 100 mA g^-1), a much reduced discharge-charge voltage gap, and a long-term life (124 cycles at 200 mA g^-1 with a specific capacity limit of 500 mAh g^-1). These excellent performances are derived from the synergy of the following advantageous factors: (1) the hierarchically self-standing and binder-free structure of MCNFs could ensure the high diffusion flux of Li⁺ and O₂ as well as avoid clogging of the discharge product, bulk Li₂O₂; (2) the well dispersed Mo₂C nanoparticles not only afford rich active sites, but also facilitate the electronic transfer for catalysis.

Bioprocessing for elimination antibiotics and hormones from swine wastewater

Antibiotics and hormones in swine wastewater have become a critical concern worldwide due to the severe threats to human health and the eco-environment. Removal of most detectable antibiotics and hormones, such as sulfonamides (SAs), SMs, tetracyclines (TCs), macrolides, and estrogenic hormones from swine wastewater utilizing various biological processes were summarized and compared. In biological processes, biosorption and biodegradation are the two major removal mechanisms for antibiotics and hormones. The residuals in treated effluents and sludge of conventional activated sludge and anaerobic digestion processes can still pose risks to the surrounding environment, and the anaerobic processes' removal efficiencies were inferior to those of aerobic processes. In contrast, membrane bioreactors (MBRs), constructed wetlands (CWs) and modified processes performed better because of their higher biodegradation of toxicants. Process modification on activated sludge, anaerobic digestion and conventional MBRs could also enhance the performance (e.g. removing up to 98% SMs, 88.9% TCs, and 99.6% hormones from wastewater). The hybrid process combining MBRs with biological or physical technology also led to better removal efficiency. As such, modified conventional biological processes, advanced biological technologies and MBR hybrid systems are considered as a promising technology for removing toxicants from swine wastewater.

[Distribution Characteristics and Health Risk Assessment of Antibiotics in the Water Supply System in Tianjin]

Six groups of 10 antibiotics in the water plants and water supply network in Tianjin were sampled and analyzed by using solid phase extraction and high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The concentrations of 10 antibiotics were detected in the water treatment process units, and the distribution, migration, and health risk assessment in the water supply networks were studied. The results of antibiotic determination in the water plants showed that the antibiotic concentrations were 0.96-126.43 ng·L^-1, and the removal efficiency was -46.47%-45.10% in plant A using traditional treatment processes. The coagulation treatment process was effective for the antibiotic removal in plant A. In plant B with an advanced treatment process, roxithromycin was not detected, and the concentration of other antibiotics was ND-72.27 ng·L^-1. The removal efficiency of the antibiotics was 40.25%-70.33% in plant B, which was remarkably higher than that in plant A. The results indicated the process of UV combined with chlorine disinfection played a major role in removing antibiotics in plant B. In addition, the antibiotic distribution in the water pipes indicated that the detection rate of roxithromycin was 75.0% and that for other antibiotics was 100.0%. The concentration of 10 antibiotics was ND-348.99 ng·L^-1 and decreased gradually with the increase of the transmission distance, which followed the first order reaction kinetics model. Based on the Monte Carlo method, the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks of antibiotics in drinking water were assessed. The results displayed that both were at an acceptable level of risk.

Effects of C/N ratio on the performance of a hybrid sponge-assisted aerobic moving bed-anaerobic granular membrane bioreactor for municipal wastewater treatment

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of C/N ratio on the performance of a hybrid sponge-assisted aerobic moving bed-anaerobic granular membrane bioreactor (SAAMB-AnGMBR) in municipal wastewater treatment. The results showed that organic removal efficiencies were above 94% at all C/N conditions. Nutrient removal was over 91% at C/N ratio of 100/5 but was negatively affected when decreasing C/N ratio to 100/10. At lower C/N ratio (100/10), more noticeable membrane fouling was caused by aggravated cake formation and pore clogging, and accumulation of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in the mixed liquor and sludge cake as a result of deteriorated granular quality. Foulant analysis suggested significant difference existed in the foulant organic compositions under different C/N ratios, and humic substances were dominant when the fastest fouling rate was observed. The performance of the hybrid system was found to recover when gradually increasing C/N ratio from 100/10 to 100/5.

[Diagnostic value of magnetic resonance imaging for middle ear cholesteatoma: a Meta-analysis]

Objective:To evaluate the values of magnetic resonance (MR) in the diagnosis of middle ear cholesteatoma by meta-analysis. Method:The articles concerning the diagnosis of middle ear cholesteatoma by using MRI until September 2017 were searched in databases including The Cochrane Library, PubMed, CBM, VIP, Wan Fang Data and CNKI with the search term "cholesteatoma, MR, Magnetic Resonance". Two independent researchers screened literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of the bias of included studies with the inclusion and exclusion criteria using the QUADAS-2 tool. Then, meta-analysis was performed using Stata 12.0 software. The pooled weighted sensitivity and specificity were calculated, the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (SROC) was drawn and the area under the curve was calculated. Result:A total of 21 original studies were included. The results of meta-analysis showed that the pooled sensitivity, specificity, DOR and area under SROC curve of MR for diagnosing middle ear cholesteatoma were 0.88 (95%CI0.83 to 0.92), 0.91 (95%CI0.86 to 0.95), 10.13 (95%CI6.20 to 15.55), 0.13 (95%CI0.09 to 0.19), 79.23 (95%CI37.74 to 166.33), and 0.96 (95%CI0.93 to 0.97), respectively. The 1.5T MR has little differences with 1.5T MR in diagnosing middle ear cholesteatoma. In contrast to retrospective studies, prospective studies have further demonstrated that MR has a higher diagnostic value for middle ear cholesteatoma. Based on regions, the analysis showed that MR in Europe was more valuable in the diagnosis of middle ear cholesteatoma. Conclusion:In the diagnosis of middle ear cholesteatoma, MR has a high value.

Flexible Electrodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries: Recent Progress and Perspectives

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are considered as promising alternatives to lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) for large-scale electrical-energy-storage applications due to the wide availability and the low cost of Na resources. Along with the avenues of research on flexible LIBs, flexible SIBs are now being actively developed as one of the most promising power sources for the emerging field of flexible and wearable electronic devices. Here, the recent progress on flexible electrodes based on metal substrates, carbonaceous substrates (i.e., graphene, carbon cloth, and carbon nanofibers), and other materials, as well as their applications in flexible SIBs, are summarized. Also, some future research directions for constructing flexible SIBs are proposed, with the aim of providing inspiration to the further development of advanced flexible SIBs.

[Quantitative measurement of citric acid in urine using tandem liquid chromatography mass spectrometry]

Objective: To find a suitable method for the determination of citric acid in the urine of patients with stones, in order to provide a new method and basis for the prevention and treatment of stone. Methods: Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze the citric acid in urine directly. And the accuracy, stability, repeatability and other indicators of the results were detected. Results: The results showed a good linear relationship with the concentration of citric acid in urine. y=50.31x+ 0.002 6 (R(2)=0.994 21). The results were stable, reproducible [intra-day (Coefficient of Variance) CV ≈1% and inter-day CV<10%], and the accuracy of which was comparable with that of the enzyme method (n=20, R=0.97). Conclusion: Using the method of this study to detect the content of citric acid in urine has the advantages of simple operation, good repeatability, accurate results, and low price. So it is worth to be popularized and applied in clinical practice.

[Role of adrenal vein sampling in differential diagnosis of primary aldosteronism subtypes]

Objective: To investigate the role of adrenal vein sampling (AVS) in identifying the subtype of primary aldosteronism (PA). Methods: AVS was performed in 50 patients who were confirmed as PA between September 2010 and September 2016 in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. Clinical, biochemical and follow-up data were reviewed retrospectively. Bilaterally simultaneous catheterization without cosyntropin stimulation and contemporaneous cortisol measurement during AVS were used. Selectivity index (SI)≥1.5 suggested that the sample was from the adrenal vein.Lateralization index (LI) ≥2 suggested unilateral disease.Clinical data was further compared and the AVS findings were analyzed. Results: AVS was successful performed in 41 cases of 50 patients, and the success rate was 82%. According to the results of AVS and postoperative pathology, 41 cases were divided into aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA)/unilateral adrenal hyperplasia (UAH) group (24 cases) and idiopathic hyperaldosteronism (IHA) group (17 cases). Compared with IHA group, patients with APA/UAH showed longer duration of hypertension[10.0 (5.0, 13.0) y vs 4.0 (2.0, 8.0) y, P=0.046], higher proportion of hypokalemia (95.8% vs 64.7%, P=0.009). Furthermore, patients with APA/UAH demonstrated lower plasma renin activity (P=0.089), higher plasma aldosterone concentration and aldosterone to renin ratio (ARR) (both P<0.05). The diagnostic concordance between CT and adrenal vein sampling was only 48.8%(20/41). Conclusions: The application of bilaterally simultaneous catheterization and contemporaneous cortisol measurement improves success rate and diagnostic accuracy of AVS. AVS is useful in subtype diagnosis of PA with equivocal imaging findings.

[Quantitative measurement of oxalic acid in urine by liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry]

Objective: To find a suitable method for the determination of oxalic acid in the urine of patients with stones, in order to provide a new method and basis for the prevention and treatment of stone. Methods: Liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze oxalic acid in urine directly.The accuracy, stability, repeatability and other indicators of the results were tested. Results: The results showed a good linear relationship with the concentration of oxalic acid in urine. y=58.524x-15.246 (R(2)=0.979 02). The results were stable, reproducible (the intra-day and inter-day coefficient of variation was less than 10% and 15%, respectively), and the accuracy was comparable with that of the enzyme method (N=20, R=0.93). Conclusion: Using the method of this study to detect the content of oxalic acid in urine has the advantages of simple operation, good repeatability, accurate results, and low price. It is worth to be popularized and applied in clinical practice.

High-Performance Integrated Self-Package Flexible Li-O2 Battery Based on Stable Composite Anode and Flexible Gas Diffusion Layer

With the rising development of flexible and wearable electronics, corresponding flexible energy storage devices with high energy density are required to provide a sustainable energy supply. Theoretically, rechargeable flexible Li-O₂ batteries can provide high specific energy density; however, there are only a few reports on the construction of flexible Li-O₂ batteries. Conventional flexible Li-O₂ batteries possess a loose battery structure, which prevents flexibility and stability. The low mechanical strength of the gas diffusion layer and anode also lead to a flexible Li-O₂ battery with poor mechanical properties. All these attributes limit their practical applications. Herein, the authors develop an integrated flexible Li-O₂ battery based on a high-fatigue-resistance anode and a novel flexible stretchable gas diffusion layer. Owing to the synergistic effect of the stable electrocatalytic activity and hierarchical 3D interconnected network structure of the free-standing cathode, the obtained flexible Li-O₂ batteries exhibit superior electrochemical performance, including a high specific capacity, an excellent rate capability, and exceptional cycle stability. Furthermore, benefitting from the above advantages, the as-fabricated flexible batteries can realize excellent mechanical and electrochemical stability. Even after a thousand cycles of the bending process, the flexible Li-O₂ battery can still possess a stable open-circuit voltage, a high specific capacity, and a durable cycle performance.

Nanoengineered Ultralight and Robust All-Metal Cathode for High-Capacity, Stable Lithium-Oxygen Batteries

The successful development of Li-O₂ battery technology depends on resolving the issue of cathode corrosion by the discharge product (Li₂O₂) and/or by the intermediates (LiO₂) generated during cell cycling. As an important step toward this goal, we report for the first time the nanoporous Ni with a nanoengineered AuNi alloy surface directly attached to Ni foam as a new all-metal cathode system. Compared with other noncarbonaceous cathodes, the Li-O₂ cell with an all-metal cathode is capable of operation with ultrahigh specific capacity (22,551 mAh g^-1 at a current density of 1.0 A g^-1) and long-term life (286 cycles). Furthermore, compared with the popularly used carbon cathode, the new all-metal cathode is advantageous because it does not show measurable reactivity toward Li₂O₂ and/or LiO₂. As a result, extensive cyclability (40 cycles) with 87.7% Li₂O₂ formation and decomposition was obtained. These superior properties are explained by the enhanced solvation-mediated formation of the discharge products as well as the tailored properties of the all-metal cathode, including intrinsic chemical stability, high specific surface area, highly porous structure, high conductivity, and superior mechanical stability.

In Situ Construction of Stable Tissue-Directed/Reinforced Bifunctional Separator/Protection Film on Lithium Anode for Lithium-Oxygen Batteries

To achieve a high reversibility and long cycle life for Li-O₂ battery system, the stable tissue-directed/reinforced bifunctional separator/protection film (TBF) is in situ fabricated on the surface of metallic lithium anode. It is shown that a Li-O₂ cell composed of the TBF-modified lithium anodes exhibits an excellent anodic reversibility (300 cycles) and effectively improved cathodic long lifetime (106 cycles). The improvement is attributed to the ability of the TBF, which has chemical, electrochemical, and mechanical stability, to effectively prevent direct contact between the surface of the lithium anode and the highly reactive reduced oxygen species (Li₂ O₂ or its intermediate LiO₂ ) in cell. It is believed that the protection strategy describes here can be easily extended to other next-generation high energy density batteries using metal as anode including Li-S and Na-O₂ batteries.

Decorating Waste Cloth via Industrial Wastewater for Tube-Type Flexible and Wearable Sodium-Ion Batteries

To turn waste into treasure, a facile and cost-effective strategy is developed to revive electroless nickel plating wastewater and cotton-textile waste toward a novel electrode substrate. Based on the substrate, a binder-free PB@GO@NTC electrode is obtained, which exhibits superior electrochemical performance. Moreover, for the first time, a novel tube-type flexible and wearable sodium-ion battery is successfully fabricated.

Ultrathin, Lightweight, and Wearable Li-O2 Battery with High Robustness and Gravimetric/Volumetric Energy Density

An ultrathin, lightweight, and wearable Li-O₂ battery with a novel segmented structure is first fabricated by employing a "break up the whole into parts" strategy. Superior battery performance including low overpotential, high specific capacity, good rate capability, excellent cycle stability, and high gravimetric/volumetric energy density (294.68 Wh kg^-1 /274.06 Wh L^-1 ) is successfully achieved even under repeatedly various deformation.

Electrochemical Reduction of N2 under Ambient Conditions for Artificial N2 Fixation and Renewable Energy Storage Using N2 /NH3 Cycle

Using tetrahexahedral gold nanorods as a heterogeneous electrocatalyst, an electrocatalytic N₂ reduction reaction is shown to be possible at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, with a high Faradic efficiency up to 4.02% at -0.2 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (1.648 µg h^-1 cm^-2 and 0.102 µg h^-1 cm^-2 for NH₃ and N₂ H₄ ·H₂ O, respectively).

Surfactant-Free Aqueous Synthesis of Pure Single-Crystalline SnSe Nanosheet Clusters as Anode for High Energy- and Power-Density Sodium-Ion Batteries

SnSe with 3D hierarchical nanostructure composed of interconnected single-crystal SnSe nanosheets is synthesized via a fast and effective strategy. Unexpectedly, when used as the anode material for Na-ion batteries (NIBs), the SnSe exhibits a high capacity (738 mA h g^-1 ), superior rate capability (40 A g^-1 ), and high energy density in a full cell. These results provide the possibility of SnSe use as NIBs anodes.

Cathode Surface-Induced, Solvation-Mediated, Micrometer-Sized Li2 O2 Cycling for Li-O2 Batteries

The "nonsticky" surface of a highly stable RuO₂ /carbon nanotube cathode enhances the formation and decomposition of cathode surface-induced, solvation-mediated, micrometer-sized discharge products Li₂ O₂ in Li-O₂ batteries and thus significantly improves the specific capacity, overpotentials, and cycle life. These findings contribute to a new understanding how the cathode surface controls Li-O₂ electrochemistry.

A Flexible and Wearable Lithium-Oxygen Battery with Record Energy Density achieved by the Interlaced Architecture inspired by Bamboo Slips

A flexible and wearable lithium-oxygen (air) battery inspired by Chinese bamboo slips is constructed. In this novel battery, cathodes and anodes are woven without an air diffusion layer and any outer packaging; besides, the woven structure allows oxygen to access the cathodes from both sides freely, endowing the battery with a record energy density of over 523 W h kg^-1 .

Reactive Multifunctional Template-Induced Preparation of Fe-N-Doped Mesoporous Carbon Microspheres Towards Highly Efficient Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction

A novel in situ replication and polymerization strategy is developed for the synthesis of Fe-N-doped mesoporous carbon microspheres (Fe-NMCSs). This material benefits from the synergy between the high catalytic activity of Fe-N-C and the fast mass transport of the mesoporous microsphere structure. Compared to commercial Pt/C catalysts, the Fe-NMCSs show a much better electrocatalytic performance in terms of higher catalytic activity, selectivity, and durability for the oxygen reduction reaction.

Macroporous Interconnected Hollow Carbon Nanofibers Inspired by Golden-Toad Eggs toward a Binder-Free, High-Rate, and Flexible Electrode

Inspired by the favorable structure and shape of golden-toad eggs, a self-standing macroporous active carbon fiber electrode is designed and fabricated via a facile and scalable strategy. After being decorated with ruthenium oxide, it endows Li-O2 batteries with superior electrochemical performances.

Comparing the value of bioproducts from different stages of anaerobic membrane bioreactors

The anaerobic digestion process in anaerobic membrane bioreactors is an effective way for waste management, energy sustainability and pollution control in the environment. This digestion process basically involves the production of volatile fatty acids and biohydrogen as intermediate products and methane as a final product. This paper compares the value of bioproducts from different stages of anaerobic membrane bioreactors through a thorough assessment. The value was assessed in terms of technical feasibility, economic assessment, environmental impact and impact on society. Even though the current research objective is more inclined to optimize the production of methane, the intermediate products could also be considered as economically attractive and environment friendly options. Hence, this is the first review study to correlate the idea into an anaerobic membrane bioreactor which is expected to guide future research pathways regarding anaerobic process and its bioproducts.

[Finite element analysis of different load mode on tooth movement for space closure in patient with bimaxillary protrusion]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the stress distribution on the maxillary anterior teeth retracted with sliding mechanics and micro-implant anchorage using different retraction hook heights and positions.

METHODS

DICOM image data including maxilla and upper teeth were obtained with cone-beam CT. The three-dimensional finite element model was constructed using Mimics software. Brackets and archwire model were constructed using Creo software. The models were instantiated using Pro/Engineer software. Abaqus software was used to simulate the sliding mechanics by loading 2 N force on 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 mm retraction hooks and three different positions, repectively. Rotation of the occlusal plane, the initial displacement and stress distribution of teeth were analyzed.

RESULTS

Lingual rotation of maxillary central incisor(0.021°), gingival movement of the maxillary first molar(0.005 mm), and clockwise rotation of the maxillary occlusal plane(0.012°) were observed when the force application point located at the archwire level (0 mm). In contrast, 0.235° labial rotation of the maxillary central incisor, 0.015 mm occlusal movement of the maxillary first molar, and 0.075° anti-clockwise rotation of the maxillary occlusal plane were observed when the force application point located at the higher level(10 mm retraction hook). The more the force application point was located posteriorly at the archwire level, the less lingual rotation of the maxillary central incisor and the more buccal displacement of maxillary first molar was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Maxillary anterior tooth rotation and retraction, vertical displacement of posterior segment, and rotation of the occlusal plane could be controlled by adjusting the height and position of the retraction hook in space closure using miniscrew and sliding mechanics.

Mitochondrial tRNA mutations may be infrequent in hepatocellular carcinoma patients

Mitochondrial DNA mutations have been shown to play important roles in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In particular, genes encoding mitochondrial tRNA (mt-tRNA) are hotspots for pathogenic mutations associated with HCC. Recently, an increasing number of studies have reported the involvement of such mutations in this disease. As a result, several mt-tRNA mutations associated with HCC have been described. Some of these are neutral polymorphisms and may not cause mitochondrial dysfunction. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms by which these pathogenic mutations result in HCC remain unclear. To address this problem, we evaluated five mt-tRNA variants (tRNA(Val) T1659C, tRNA(Ala) G5650A, tRNA(Arg) T10463C, tRNA(Glu) A14679G, and tRNA(Pro) C15975T) implicated in the clinical manifestation of HCC in humans. We performed evolutionary conservation analysis and used a bioinformatic tool to predict the secondary structure of the mt-tRNAs carrying these mutations. Using an established pathogenicity scoring system, we classified T10463C and A14679G as neutral polymorphisms, and determined that the T1659C, G5650A, and C15975T variants should be regarded as pathogenic mutations. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to establish the pathogenicity of HCC-associated mt-tRNA mutations.

SNP at miR-483-5p-binding site in the 3'-untranslated region of the BSG gene is associated with susceptibility to esophageal cancer in a Chinese population

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between a functional variant of the basigin (BSG) gene, caused by a polymorphism (rs11473) at the miR-483-5p binding site, and the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in the Chinese population. The rs11473 polymorphism was genotyped in 624 esophageal cancer patients and 636 cancer-free age- and gender-matched controls using polymerase chain reaction restriction and direct sequencing. The functional variants resulting from the BSG rs11473 SNP were investigated using a luciferase activity assay and validated by immunoblotting. We discovered that ESCC patients carrying the rs11473 AA genotype or A allele were at a significantly higher risk of esophageal cancer [odds ratio (OR) = 1.560, 95% confidence interval  (CI) = 1.031-2.358, P = 0.037; OR = 1.231, 95%CI = 1.038-1.459, P = 0.017, respectively] than those carrying the GG genotype and G allele. Moreover, the rs11473 polymorphism modifies the binding of miR-483- 5p to basigin, as well as the basigin protein levels in esophageal cancer patients. Our data suggested that the rs11473 polymorphism at the miR- 483-5p binding site in the 3'-UTR of basigin gene may play a key role in the development of esophageal cancer in a Chinese population.

[The function of regulator cAxin2 in inner ear development of chick embry]

Objective:To study the mechanism of the Wnt families'negative regulator cAxin2 in early inner ear development of chick embryo.Method: Plasmid was constructed with enhanced green fluorescent protein(EGFP), cAxin2 and short hairpin RNA(shRNA), which was transfected in otic vesicle by in ovo electroporation. Expression of cAxin2，cPax2(Pared box2)，and cBMP4(bone morphogenetic protein 4) genes was investigated in the transfected oticvesicle with situ hybridization.Result:cAxin2 expression was inhibited by shRNA，cPax2 was down regulated and cBMP4 was up regulated as well as an abnormally enlarged otic vesicle was discovered in the transfected otic vesicle. Conclusion:cAxin2 is an important regulatory gene required for inner ear development.

Cable-Type Water-Survivable Flexible Li-O2 Battery

A novel cable-type water-survivable flexible Li-O2 battery is developed with a hydrophobic and free standing gel polymer electrolyte. Superior battery performances are successfully achieved under mechanical twisting, bending, and even immersed in water conditions, showing the high promise to power next-generation versatile flexible electronics.

Effects of intracutaneous injections of sterile water in patients with acute low back pain: a randomized, controlled, clinical trial

Intracutaneous sterile water injection (ISWI) is used for relief of low back pain during labor, acute attacks of urolithiasis, chronic neck and shoulder pain following whiplash injuries, and chronic myofascial pain syndrome. We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the effect of ISWI for relief of acute low back pain (aLBP). A total of 68 patients (41 females and 27 males) between 18 and 55 years old experiencing aLBP with moderate to severe pain (scores ≥5 on an 11-point visual analogue scale [VAS]) were recruited and randomly assigned to receive either ISWIs (n=34) or intracutaneous isotonic saline injections (placebo treatment; n=34). The primary outcome was improvement in pain intensity using the VAS at 10, 45, and 90 min and 1 day after treatment. The secondary outcome was functional improvement, which was assessed using the Patient-Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) 1 day after treatment. The mean VAS score was significantly lower in the ISWI group than in the control group at 10, 45, and 90 min, and 1 day after injection (P<0.05, t-test). The mean increment in PSFS score of the ISWI group was 2.9±2.2 1 day after treatment, while that in the control group was 0.9±2.2. Our study showed that ISWI was effective for relieving pain and improving function in aLBP patients at short-term follow-up. ISWI might be an alternative treatment for aLBP patients, especially in areas where medications are not available, as well as in specific patients (e.g., those who are pregnant or have asthma), who are unable to receive medications or other forms of analgesia because of side effects.

Flexible and Foldable Li-O2 Battery Based on Paper-Ink Cathode

A flexible freestanding air cathode inspired by traditional Chinese calligraphy art is built. When this novel electrode is employed as both a new concept cathode and current collector, to replace conventional rigid and bulky counterparts, a highly flexible and foldable Li-O2 battery with excellent mechanical strength and superior electrochemical performance is obtained.

Precision Measurement of the Helium Flux in Primary Cosmic Rays of Rigidities 1.9 GV to 3 TV with the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station

Knowledge of the precise rigidity dependence of the helium flux is important in understanding the origin, acceleration, and propagation of cosmic rays. A precise measurement of the helium flux in primary cosmic rays with rigidity (momentum/charge) from 1.9 GV to 3 TV based on 50 million events is presented and compared to the proton flux. The detailed variation with rigidity of the helium flux spectral index is presented for the first time. The spectral index progressively hardens at rigidities larger than 100 GV. The rigidity dependence of the helium flux spectral index is similar to that of the proton spectral index though the magnitudes are different. Remarkably, the spectral index of the proton to helium flux ratio increases with rigidity up to 45 GV and then becomes constant; the flux ratio above 45 GV is well described by a single power law.

Regulatory role of microRNA184 in osteosarcoma cells

Osteosarcoma is a highly malignant cancer that often appears in teenagers. It is the most frequently occurring primary bone tumor, and can easily metastasize, resulting in high mortality. MicroRNAs express abnormally in osteosarcoma, and may function as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Recent studies showed that microRNA184 (miR-184) is abnormally expressed in multiple tumors, and is involved in tumor cell growth, differentiation, invasion, and metastasis. Nevertheless, the role of miR-184 in osteosarcoma cells remains unknown. We evaluated the expression and function of microRNA184 in osteosarcoma cells. SOSP-M osteosarcoma cells were divided into normal control, miR-184 mimic, and miR-184 inhibitor groups. Real-time PCR was applied to detect miR-184 expression. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthaizol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was used to evaluate cell proliferation. Transwell assays were performed to detect changes in cell invasion ability. Compared with the control group, miR-184 expression was significantly increased in the miR-184 mimic group (P < 0.05). After miR-184 inhibitor transfection, miR-184 expression was obviously reduced (P < 0.05). Tumor cell proliferation was enhanced in the miR-184 mimic group (P < 0.05), whereas miR-184 inhibition suppressed cell proliferation (P < 0.05). Furthermore, tumor cell invasion increased after miR-184 mimic transfection (P < 0.05), and decreased after inhibiting miR-184 (P < 0.05). MiR-184 promotes tumor cell proliferation and invasion, and may represent a new biological target for osteosarcoma.