Orientation of graphene nanosheets in suspension under an electric field: theoretical model and molecular dynamic simulations

Orientation regulation of nanoparticles in a suspension by an electric field is a powerful tool to tune its mechanical, thermal, optical, electrical properties etc. However, how molecular modification can affect the orientation of two-dimensional nanoparticles is still unclear. In this paper, the influence of molecular modification on the orientation of graphene nanosheets (GNS) in water was investigated through theoretical analyses and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Firstly, a new orientation angle model was proposed, which considers hydration effects, dipole moments and resistance torque. Then, MD simulations were conducted to investigate the effects of position, direction, type, and number of functional groups on the orientation of GNS. The trend observed in MD simulations is consistent with the proposed theoretical model. The results reveal that, under the combined influence of the dipole moment and hydration effects, the modification with hydrophilic functional groups can reduce the orientation angle from 21.31° to 8.34°, while the modification with hydrophobic functional groups increases it to 26.43°. Among the hydrophilic functional groups, orientation of hydroxylated GNS is the best. With an increase in the number of hydroxyl groups, orientation angle is decreased from 12.61° to 8.34°. This work can provide valuable guidance for the design of high-performance suspensions and composites, such as thermal smart materials with adjustable thermal conductivity and intelligent devices with tailored capabilities.

[Promote the high-quality development of gastrointestinal surgery with technological concept innovation]

In the past 30 years, gastrointestinal surgery in China has made significant progress, which is reflected in the gradual standardization of clinical diagnosis and treatment, significant improvement in surgical quality, improvement in short-term and long-term postoperative outcomes, and continuous development of high-quality clinical research. At present, the spectrum of disease in gastrointestinal surgery has changed from traditional benign diseases to malignant diseases represented by gastric cancer and colorectal cancer, metabolic diseases represented by obesity and diabetes, and immune diseases represented by inflammatory bowel disease. It is necessary to carry out full-cycle management for patients. In the new era full of opportunities and challenges, surgeons must be driven by innovation in surgical technology, guided by high-quality clinical research and guaranteed by standardized diagnosis and treatment of diseases, to continue to promote the high-quality development of gastrointestinal surgery in China.

Long-Term Outcome of Rectal Cancer Patients Treated by High-Dose Radiotherapy and Concurrent Chemotherapy

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

To explore the therapeutic efficacy and adverse effects of high-dose radiotherapy concurrently with chemotherapy in treating patients with non-metastatic rectal cancer.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Patients were enrolled if they were diagnosed with stage I-III rectal adenocarcinoma, refused surgery and received high-dose pelvic radiotherapy and concurrent chemotherapy instead. Their clinical data were retrospectively analyzed for calculating local control and survival rates. Treatment related toxicities was evaluated according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 5.0).

RESULTS

Between April 2006 and February 2021, a total of 93 patients in our medical center were eligible for this study, with a median age of 61 (range, 21-84) years. Of those, 86 (92.5%) patients had tumors located within 5 cm of the anal verge. There were 8 (8.6%), 30 (32.3%) and 55 (59.1%) patients diagnosed with stage I, II and III, respectively. All patients received fluorouracil-based chemotherapy (single-agent fluorouracil or FOLFOX regimen). The irradiation techniques included three-dimensional conformal and intensity-modulated radiation therapy. The median total radiation dose for gross tumor volume (GTV) was 80 (range, 60-90) Gy. The 15 (16.1%) patients refusing surgery before treatment received one course of radiation (60-70 Gy/30-35 Fr). And a 2-course radiation (Course 1, 45-50 Gy/25 Fr; Course 2: 24-40 Gy/12-20 Fr) were given to the 78 (83.9%) patients who failed to achieve clinical complete remission (cCR) after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy but still refused surgery, with a median interval of 79 (range, 35-195) days. The median follow-up duration was 66 (range, 10-161) months. The 3- and 5-year overall survival (OS) rates for all patients were 90.5% and 72.7%, respectively. The clinical complete remission rate at the end of chemoradiotherapy was 69.9%. Colostomy was performed in the 14 patients whose rectal tumor did not attain cCR or progressed. There was no grade 4/5 severe acute toxicity. No patient suffered from intestinal perforation. Only one patient developed anal stenosis. Because of rectal bleeding, blood transfusion was performed in 7 patients, and one patient underwent an enterostomy.

CONCLUSION

High-dose radiotherapy concurrent with chemotherapy brought encouraging survival outcomes, satisfactory organ preservation and acceptable short- and long-term side effects. It might be a safe and non-invasive alternative to abdominoperineal resection in rectal cancer patients refusing or unsuitable for surgery, especially for those with a low-position tumor.

ANGPTL3 negatively regulates IL-1β-induced NF-κB activation by inhibiting the IL1R1-associated signaling complex assembly

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced signaling is one of the most important pathways in regulating inflammation and immunity. The assembly of the receptor complex, consisting of the ligand IL-1β, the IL-1 receptor (IL-1R) type 1 (IL1R1), and the IL-1R accessory protein (IL1RAP), initiates this signaling. However, how the IL1R1-associated complex is regulated remains elusive. Angiopoietin like 3 (ANGPTL3), a key inhibitor of plasma triglyceride clearance, is mainly expressed in the liver and exists in both intracellular and extracellular secreted forms. Presently, ANGPTL3 has emerged as a highly promising drug target for hypertriglyceridemia and associated cardiovascular diseases. However, most studies have focused on the secreted form of ANGPTL3, while its intracellular role is still largely unknown. Here, we report that intracellular ANGPTL3 acts as a negative regulator of IL-1β-triggered signaling. Overexpression of ANGPTL3 inhibited IL-1β-induced NF-κB activation and the transcription of inflammatory genes in HepG2, THP1, and HEK293T cells, while knockdown or knockout of ANGPTL3 resulted in opposite effects. Mechanistically, ANGPTL3 interacted with IL1R1 and IL1RAP through its intracellular C-terminal fibrinogen-like domain (FLD) and disrupted the assembly of the IL1R1-associated complex. Taken together, our study reveals a novel role for ANGPTL3 in inflammation, whereby it inhibits the physiological interaction between IL1R1 and IL1RAP to maintain immune tolerance and homeostasis in the liver.

[Fortify clinical advantages and promote innovative development: comparison of the Chinese Colorectal Cancer Surgery Database with foreign databases]

With the continuous development of evidence-based medicine, increasing attention has been paid to the construction of a large medical database to ensure a source of high quality real-world data. The Chinese Medical Association Colorectal Surgery Group created the Chinese Colorectal Cancer Surgery Database (CCCD), whose objective is to promote the development of colorectal surgery and improve patient prognosis with evidence-based medicine theory. Compared to major databases around the world, CCCD contains more comprehensive information on colorectal cancer surgical cases, recording the main epidemiological characteristics and detailed surgical information, but perioperative treatment data still need to be strengthened. It is necessary to continuously expand the coverage, enrich perioperative data and strengthen data, quality control. In the future, CCCD is expected to play a role in promoting homogenization of medical services, promoting smooth and effective graded diagnosis and treatment, giving full role to the characteristics of each center to achieve integrated development, and connecting real-world data and artificial intelligence.

Thermal Interface Materials with High Thermal Conductivity and Low Young's Modulus Using a Solid-Liquid Metal Codoping Strategy

Thermal interface materials (TIMs), as typical thermal functional materials, are highly required to possess both high thermal conductivity and low Young's modulus. However, the naturally synchronized change in the thermal and mechanical properties seriously hinders the development of high-performance TIMs. To tackle such a dilemma, a strategy of codoping solid fillers and liquid metal fillers into polymer substrates is proposed in this study. This strategy includes a large amount of liquid metals that play the role of thermal paths and a small amount of uniformly dispersed solid fillers that further enhance heat conduction. Through the synergistic effect of the liquid metal and solid fillers, the thermal conductivity can be improved, and Young's modulus can be kept small simultaneously. A typical TIM with a volume of 55% gallium-based liquid metal and 15% copper particles as fillers has a thermal conductivity of 3.94 W/(m·K) and a Young's modulus of 699 kPa, which had the maximum thermomechanical performance coefficient compared with liquid metal TIMs and solid filler-doped TIMs. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the solid-liquid metal codoped TIM increased sharply with an increase of liquid metal content, and Young's modulus increased rapidly with an increase of the volume ratio of copper and polymer. The high-low-temperature cycling test and large-size light-emitting diode (LED) application demonstrated that this TIM had stable physical performance. The synergistic effect of the solid fillers and liquid metal fillers provides a broad space to solve the classic tradeoff issue of the mechanical and thermal properties of composites.

[Current application and prospect of accurate navigation technology in orthopaedic trauma]

In the past decades,a dramatic development of navigation technology in orthopaedic surgery has been witnessed. By assisting the localization of surgical region,verification of target bony structure,preoperative planning of fixation,intraoperative identification of planned entry point and direction of instruments or even automated insertion of implants,its ability and potential to reduce operation time,intraoperative radiation,surgical trauma,and improve accuracy has been proved. However,in contrast to the widespread use of navigation technology in arthroplasty,orthopaedic tumor,and spine surgery,its application in orthopaedic trauma is relatively less. In this manuscript,the main purpose is to introduce the technical principles of navigation devices,outline the current clinical application of navigation systems in orthopaedic trauma,analyze the current challenges confronting its further application in clinical practice and its prospect in the future.

[From mini gastric bypass to one anastomosis gastric bypass, 20 years of one anastomosis gastric bypass]

In 2001, Rutledge reported the first case of mini gastric bypass (MGB). Carbajo improved the technique of MGB and named it one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB). Over the past 20 years, a large number of clinical and basic studies on OAGB/MGB have been reported, and the answers to some key questions about OAGB/MGB have gradually become clear. From a technical point of view, MGB and OAGB can be regarded as two subvariants of one surgery. The advantages of OAGB/MGB include: (1) simplicity, safety and lower probability of internal hernia;(2) stable and durable weight reduction effect; (3) stable and durable remission rate of type 2 Diabetes. The disadvantages of OAGB/MGB include: (1) bile reflux; (2) higher risk of malnutrition. OAGB/MGB has achieved a good balance between effectiveness and safety, and has become the most noticed and fastest-growing bariatric and metabolic procedure in recent years. OAGB/MGB has been recommended as a standard bariatric and metabolic procedure by IFSO and ASMBS.

Agromyces cavernae sp. nov., a novel member of the genus Agromyces isolated from a karstic cave in Shaoguan

A novel actinobacterial strain, designated SYSU K20354T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from a karst cave in Shaoguan city, Guangdong province, southern China. The taxonomic position of the strain was investigated using a polyphasic approach. Cells of the strain were aerobic, Gram-stain-positive and non-motile. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities and phylogenetic analysis, strain SYSU K20354T was most closely related to Agromyces humatus JCM 14319T, and shared the highest sequence identity of 98.3 % based on NCBI database. In addition, 2,4-diaminobutyric acid was the diagnostic diamino acid in cell-wall peptidoglycan. The whole-cell sugars were galactose, glucose, mannose and ribose. The major isoprenoid quinone was MK-12, while the major fatty acids (>10 %) were iso-C16 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0. The polar lipids contained diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, three unknown glycolipids, three unknown phospholipids and two unknown lipids. The draft genome size of strain SYSU K20354T was 3.96 Mbp with G+C content of 69.7 mol%. Furthermore, the average nucleotide identity and digital DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain SYSU K20354T and A. humatus JCM 14319T were 90.3 and 55.6 %, respectively. On the basis of phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic data, strain SYSU K20354T represents a novel species of the genus Agromyces, for which the name Agromyces cavernae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SYSU K20354T (=KCTC 49499T= CGMCC 4.7691T).

[Prognosis factors for non-reversal of defunctioning ileostomy in patients with radical resection of rectal cancer]

Objective: To examine the prognosis factors for non-reversal of defunctioning ileostomy in rectal cancer surgery. Methods: The data of 234 patients with rectal cancer undergoing radical resection and defunctioning ileostomy in the Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 2013 to June 2020 was analyzed retrospectively. There were 166 males and 68 females, aging (M(IQR)) 62(12) years (range: 33 to 89 years). Telephone following-up was conducted intensively in July 2021 to investigate whether stoma was reversed, causes of reversal failure, and tumor recurrence or metastasis after surgery. The non-reversal stoma was defined as stoma not being reversed during the follow-up period (more than 12 months). The χ2 test or Fisher's exact test was used to conduct a univariate analysis of clinical data related to reversal failure, and the factors with P<0.05 were selected into Logistic regression for multivariate analysis. Results: A total of 165 patients received stoma reversal postoperatively with an interval time of (6.5±2.4) months (range: 0.9 to 17.8 months), but 69 patients failed to closure of stoma. Univariate analysis showed that age, concomitant diseases, surgical methods, preoperative hemoglobin, preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen, tumor maximum diameter, depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, TNM stage, anastomotic-related complications, postoperative tumor local recurrence or distant metastasis were associated with non-reversal of diverting ileostomy in rectal cancer surgery (all P<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that age (OR=2.270, 95%CI: 1.150 to 4.479, P=0.018), open surgery (OR=7.249, 95%CI: 1.977 to 26.587, P=0.003), preoperative hemoglobin<120 g/L (OR=3.092, 95%CI: 1.566 to 6.105, P<0.01), anastomotic-related complications (OR=4.375, 95%CI: 1.686 to 11.349, P=0.002), postoperative local recurrence or distant metastasis (OR=7.065, 95%CI: 2.591 to 19.264, P<0.01) were independent prognosis factors for reversal failure of defunctioning stoma in rectal cancer surgery. Conclusions: There is a high risk of reversal failure of defunctioning ileostomy among rectal cancer patients with age>65 years, open surgery, preoperative hemoglobin<120 g/L, anastomotic-related complications, postoperative local recurrence or distant metastasis. Colorectal surgeons should fully evaluate the outcome and risk of reversal failure before making a decision of diverting ileostomy. Reducing anastomotic complications is helpful to the successful return of preventive ileostomy.

[Short-term complications after transanal total mesorectal excision for mid-low rectal cancer]

Objective: To summarize short-term postoperative complications of transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) in the treatment of middle-low rectal cancer. Methods: A descriptive case series of cases was constructed. Clinical data of consecutive 83 patients with mid-low rectal cancer who received taTME treatment from November 2016 to April 2021 at Department of General Surgery of Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University were collected. Among 83 patients, 58 (69.9%) were males, with a mean age of (61.4±11.8) years; 42 (50.6%) were low rectal cancer, 41 (49.4%) were middle rectal cancer. Short-term postoperative complication was defined as complication occurring within 30 days after operation. The complication was graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. At the same time, the morbidity of short-term postoperative complication in the first 40 patients and that in the last 43 patients were compared to understand the differences before and after passing the taTME learning curve. Results: Two patients (2.5%) were converted to laparotomy ; 78 (94.0%) completed anastomosis.While 5 (6.0%) underwent permanent stoma. The total operation time of transabdominal+ transanal procedure was (246.9±85.0) minutes, and the median intraoperative blood loss was 100 (IQR: 100) ml. Seventy-five cases (75 /78, 96.2%) underwent defunctioning stoma, including 74 cases of diverting ileostomy, 1 case of diverting transverse colostomy and 3 cases without stoma. The morbidity of complication within 30 days after operation was 38.6% (32/83), and the morbidity of complication after discharge was 8.4% (7/83). Minor complications accounted for 31.3% (26/83) and major complications accounted for 7.2% (6/83). No patient died within 30 days after operation. The incidence of anastomotic leakage was 15.4% (12/78). Eight patients (9.6%) were hospitalized again due to complications after discharge. The median postoperative hospital stay was 7 (IQR: 3) days. All the patients with minor (I-II) complications received conservative treatment. One patient with grade C anastomotic leakage was transferred to intensive care unit and received a second operation due to sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction. Two patients with paralytic ileus (Clavien-Dindo IIIa) underwent endoscopic ileus catheter placement. There were 3 patients with Clavien-Dindo III or above respiratory complications, including 1 patient with pleural effusion and ultrasound-guided puncture, 2 patients with respiratory failure who were improved and discharged after anti-infection and symptomatic treatment. One patient underwent emergency ureteral stent implantation due to urinary infection (Clavien-Dindo IIIb). The morbidity of postoperative complication in the first 40 cases was 50.0% (20/40), and that in the latter 43 cases decreased significantly (27.9%, 12/43), whose difference was statistically significant (χ(2)=4.270, P=0.039). Conclusions: The procedure of taTME has an acceptable morbidity of short-term postoperative complication in the treatment of mid-low rectal cancer. The accumulation of surgical experience plays an important role in reducing the morbidity of postoperative complication.

[Problems exposed in retrospective study of postoperative complications of rectal cancer and causal analysis]

Rectal cancer is a great threat to the health of the Chinese people. With the continuous improvement of surgical treatment level, complication as an important indicator to measure the safety of surgery has received increasing attention from clinicians both at home and abroad. Although there are many studies on postoperative complications of rectal cancer, the morbidity of complication reported by related studies varies greatly. An important reason occurs in the limitations of retrospective research, such as incomplete medical records, unclear diagnostic criteria for some complications, incomplete follow-up records after discharge, and poor communication mechanisms among MDT members. Starting from a retrospective study on postoperative complications of rectal cancer and finding out the defects and problems in the registration of complications in each center, then clarifying the definition of various postoperative complications, so as to establish a sound and standardized registration system, and carry out prospective research, this path could be a reliable method to obtain relatively accurate postoperative complications of rectal cancer.

[Research progress on early diagnosis and prevention of anastomotic leak after rectal cancer surgery]

Anastomotic leak is a common and serious complication after anterior rectal resection. Despite the continuous advancement of anastomotic instruments and surgical techniques, the incidence of anastomotic leak has not decreased significantly compared with the past. As more studies on the early diagnosis of anastomotic leak are published, postoperative risk factors of anastomotic leak, such as fever, time to first bowel movement, CT, C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT), matrix metalloproteinase-9, and other cytokines and biomarkers (IL-6, TNF-α, lactate, pH, urinary neopterin/creatinine ratio), provide a reference for surgeons to assess the risk and increase the possibility of early diagnosis of anastomotic leak. Nevertheless, preventing the occurrence of anastomotic leak is still the ultimate goal. For the prevention of anastomotic leak, intraoperative ICG fluorescence imaging technology provides a simple and safe objective method for surgeons to evaluate anastomotic perfusion. The diversion stoma may reduce the incidence of anastomotic leak. More and more evidence shows that drainage through the anal canal can reduce the incidence of anastomotic leak after rectal cancer, but whether different types of drainage catheters can clearly reduce the incidence of anastomotic leak still needs more evidence. In addition, there has not yet been a unified opinion on the retention time and location of the drainage catheter. At present, the research of anastomotic leak has not adopted a unified definition and the heterogeneity among related studies is still great. We still look forward to more high-quality multi-center large prospective and randomized controlled studies.

[Incidence and risk factors of anastomotic leak after transanal total mesorectal excision in China: a retrospective analysis based on national database]

Objective: Transanal total mesorectal excision (taTME) was a very hot topic in the first few years since its appearance, but now more introspections and controversies on this procedure have emerged. One of the reasons why the Norwegian Ministry of Health stopped taTME was the high incidence of postoperative anastomotic leak. In current study, the incidence and risk factors of anastomotic leak after taTME were analyzed based on the data registered in the Chinese taTME Registry Collaborative (CTRC). Methods: A case-control study was carried out. Between November 15, 2017 and December 31, 2020, clinical data of 1668 patients undergoing taTME procedure registered in the CTRC database from 43 domestic centers were collected retrospectively. After excluding 98 cases without anastomosis and 109 cases without complete postoperative complication data, 1461 patients were finally enrolled for analysis. There were 1036 males (70.9%) and 425 females (29.1%) with mean age of (58.2±15.6) years and mean body mass index of (23.6±3.8) kg/m(2). Anastomotic leak was diagnosed and classified according to the International Study Group of Rectal Cancer (ISREC) criteria. The risk factors associated with postoperative anastomotic leak cases were analyzed. The impact of the cumulative number of taTME surgeries in a single center on the incidence of anastomotic leak was evaluated. As for those centers with the number of taTME surgery ≥ 40 cases, incidence of anastomic leak between 20 cases of taTME surgery in the early and later phases was compared. Results: Of 1461 patients undergoing taTME, 103(7.0%) developed anastomotic leak, including 71 (68.9%) males and 32 (31.1%) females with mean age of (59.0±13.9) years and mean body mass index of (24.5±5.7) kg/m(2). The mean distance between anastomosis site and anal verge was (2.6±1.4) cm. Thirty-nine cases (37.9%) were classified as ISREC grade A, 30 cases (29.1%) as grade B and 34 cases (33.0%) as grade C. Anastomotic leak occurred in 89 cases (7.0%,89/1263) in the laparoscopic taTME group and 14 cases (7.1%, 14/198) in the pure taTME group. Multivariate analysis showed that hand-sewn anastomosis (P=0.004) and the absence of defunctioning stoma (P=0.013) were independently associated with anastomotic leak after taTME. In the 16 centers (37.2%) which performed ≥ 30 taTME surgeries with cumulative number of 1317 taTME surgeries, 86 cases developed anastomotic leak (6.5%, 86/1317). And in the 27 centers which performed less than 30 taTME surgeries with cumulative number of 144 taTME surgeries, 17 cases developed anastomotic leak (11.8%, 17/144). There was significant difference between two kinds of center (χ(2)=5.513, P=0.019). Thirteen centers performed ≥ 40 taTME surgeries. In the early phase (the first 20 cases in each center), 29 cases (11.2%, 29/260) developed anastomotic leak, and in the later phase, 12 cases (4.6%, 12/260) developed anastomotic leak. The difference between the early phase and the later phase was statistically significant (χ(2)=7.652, P=0.006). Conclusion: The incidence of anastomotic leak after taTME may be reduced by using stapler and defunctioning stoma, or by accumulating experience.

[The development process and new requirements of structured training on transanal total mesorectal resection]

Due to the technical difficulty and long learning curve, the benefits of Transanal total mesorectal excision may be obscured by surgical complications that arise from rapid, large-scale development, therefore the surgeons need to receive sufficient training before performing this surgery. At present, a mature structured training system has been formed, but the development of structured training has not met the needs of existing surgical development. In order to standardize the development of transanal total mesorectal excision, the European Society of Colorectal Diseases and 14 international surgical societies recently launched the "International Expert Consensus Guidelines for the Indication, Implementation and Quality Evaluation of Transanal Total Mesorectum Resection". The consensus involves the requirements for trainees, the content and process of training, as well as the evaluation and registration of training results. Training in cadaver is the core of structured training. Beginners should receive repeated training and conduct the surgery under the guidance of instructors.

[Analysis of the clinical confusion and controversy of esophagogastric junction tumor from basic anatomy]

There are still many controversies in the surgical treatment of esophagogastric junction tumors in terms of surgical approach, cleaning range, and resection scope. The reason is the confusion about the scope of the esophagogastric junction. The previous domestic and foreign anatomy descriptions of this part are not enough to solve the current problems. Based on a large number of basic anatomy and clinical operations, this article proposes that the esophagogastric junction may be wrapped by a complete and separate esophagogastric junction membrane with independent anatomy other than infracardiac bursa. The structure of the transitional tissue, mainly from the distribution of submucosal veins, explained the relationship and significance of tissue transitional changes and clinical operations, and made a reasonable analysis of the current controversy based on the anatomical characteristics, which is worthy of further investigation.

[Looking forward to the future direction of colorectal surgery in the perspective of clinical research and data collection]

Colorectal surgery has been developed rapidly in China because of the advance of minimally invasive surgical techniques, perioperative comprehensive treatment strategies and clinical research in recent years. Comparing the current diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer between China and western industrialized countries, it can be found that the specialized construction and standardized diagnosis and treatment of colorectal surgery in western industrialized countries are very mature, and the multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment model of colorectal cancer has been standardized. Although there is almost no difference between high-level colorectal cancer centers in the eastern coastal areas of China and western countries, due to the vast size and uneven regional development of China, standardized surgery and standardized treatment concepts of colorectal surgery still need to be popularized. Combined with the current diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer in China, more high-quality clinical research should be carried out to seek new development and breakthroughs in the field of colorectal surgery. Combined with the experience of international and domestic clinical research that has been participated in or carried out, the author believes that quality control of clinical research should be carried out from the following two points: 1. structured training and quality control of research; 2. establishment and management of databases. In a word, we should not only focus on colon surgery itself, but also complete the transformation to research-oriented doctors and research-oriented disciplines, cultivate the concept of data collection and clinical research, enhance the scientific awareness of clinical research, and integrate high-quality data collection and clinical research into daily clinical practice. Only in this way can we fundamentally improve the comprehensive strength of China's colorectal surgery, effectively carry out surgical-related clinical research based on the current situation colorectal diseases in China, and obtain high-level evidence-based medical evidence based on the research results of the population of patients in China, and form a guide for the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal surgery in China, which will also guide the clinical practice of patients with colorectal diseases in China. This will certainly be a new direction for the development of Chinese colorectal surgery.

Screening and identification of hub genes in bladder cancer by bioinformatics analysis and KIF11 is a potential prognostic biomarker

Bladder cancer (BC) is the ninth most common lethal malignancy worldwide. Great efforts have been devoted to clarify the pathogenesis of BC, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To screen for the genes associated with the progression and carcinogenesis of BC, three datasets were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus. A total of 37 tumor and 16 non-cancerous samples were analyzed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Subsequently, 141 genes were identified, including 55 upregulated and 86 downregulated genes. The protein-protein interaction network was established using the Search Tool for Retrieval of Interacting Genes database. Hub gene identification and module analysis were performed using Cytoscape software. Hierarchical clustering of hub genes was conducted using the University of California, Santa Cruz Cancer Genomics Browser. Among the hub genes, kinesin family member 11 (KIF11) was identified as one of the most significant prognostic biomarkers among all the candidates. The Kaplan Meier Plotter database was used for survival analysis of KIF11. The expression profile of KIF11 was analyzed using the ONCOMINE database. The expression levels of KIF11 in BC samples and bladder cells were measured using reverse transcription-quantitative pCR, immunohistochemistry and western blotting. In summary, KIF11 was significantly upregulated in BC and might act as a potential prognostic biomarker. The present identification of DEGs and hub genes in BC may provide novel insight for investigating the molecular mechanisms of BC.

Ferromagnetic frustration in ternary nitride ZnFe3N

As a new antiperovskite nitride, ZnFe3N was synthesized and characterized by almost completely substituting iron atoms at corner positions of γ'-Fe4N. The magnetic interactions of the system with the space group Pm3[combining macron]m are fully investigated. The critical behavior was investigated based on the measured magnetic data around the ferromagnetic phase transition temperature. In this work, the values of critical exponents (β, γ and δ) were obtained systematically using the Kouvel-Fisher method in the critical region. The Widom scaling law (δ = 1 + γβ-1) and the scaling equation (m = f±(h)) were used to reveal the reliability of these values. The values of the critical exponents (β = 0.325, γ = 1.228, and δ = 4.778) are different from those predicted by the three-dimensional (3D) Heisenberg model and mean-field model, and are very close to those of the 3D-Ising model. Combined with ESR analysis, the spin clusters induced by changes in chemical bonds are considered to be the cause for the existence of an anisotropic short-range ordered state in this ferromagnetic system.

Tuning the thermal conductivity of nanoparticle suspensions by electric field

Active thermal management is essential for the operation of modern technologies like electronic circuits and spacecraft systems to deal with the complex control and conversion of thermal energy. One basic requirement for the materials is its tunable and reversible thermal properties. Here, we try to provide a systematic investigation of the thermal smart materials composed of low-dimensional solid particles suspended in liquid media, whose structures and properties can be tuned by external field. A two-step theoretical model, which takes into account the effects from particle aggregation and orientational variation, was proposed and obtained reasonable agreement with both literature and our own experimental results. Graphene nanosheets/Mg-Al layered double hydroxides (GNS/LDH) were fabricated and their silicone oil suspension shows reversible thermal conductivity switching under DC electric field due to the formation/break-up of chain-like structures with a maximum switching ratio around 1.35×. This study reveals the underlying mechanism of thermal conductivity enhancement in nanoparticle suspensions, and provides a preliminary example to design and fabricate responsive thermal materials for the next generation technologies.

Red-emitting GSH-Cu NCs as a triplet induced quenched fluorescent probe for fast detection of thiol pollutants

Thiol compounds exist widely on the Earth and have certain significance in the fields of the circulation of the sulfur element and industrial production. However, the odor and biological toxicity of thiol compounds make them pollutants that seriously threaten the environmental safety and the living quality of human. In this study, a novel triplet induced fluorescence "turn-off" strategy was designed for the detection of thiol pollutants via a glutathione-stabilized copper nanocluster (GSH-Cu NC) probe. The as-prepared GSH-Cu NCs not only have small size and good water-solubility, but also exhibit strong red-emitting fluorescence at 630 nm, which could be quenched quantitatively with the increase of the concentration of thiol pollutants. So they were employed to detect thioglycolic acid (TGA), 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA), 2-mercaptoethanol (ME) and 2-(diethylamino)ethanethiol (2-AT) in a wide linear range of 1-100 μM with detection limits of 0.73 μM, 0.43 μM, 0.37 μM, and 0.69 μM, respectively. This method was successfully applied to detect the above thiol pollutants in lake water with good recoveries. Moreover, their further application was also expanded as luminous test strips based on the excellent fluorescence characteristics of GSH-Cu NCs for fast real-time detection of thiol pollutants.

[Promoting the colorectal surgery in virtue of new theories and techniques]

Since the 21st century, with the development of minimally invasive surgical technology, the update of comprehensive treatment strategies and the progress of clinical research, colorectal surgery has developed rapidly. However, in recent years, some disputable issues still exist in colorectal surgery, such as transanal total mesorectal excision, pelvic cavity lateral lymph node dissection, the "wait and observe" strategy for clinical complete remission of rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy, and robotic colorectal surgical operation. In addition, the application of three dimensions imaging, 4K resolution, 5th generation wireless systems, virtual reality, artificial intelligence and other new techniques may provide extensive space and new opportunity for the development of colorectal surgery. The therapic outcome could be optimized by more relevant clinical research and evidence, which contribute to the standardization of surgical treatment of colorectal cancer.

[Current status of research on short-term quality of life after sphincteric-saving surgery in rectal cancer patients]

Sphincteric-saving surgery (SSS) is currently a hot spot in the treatment of mid-low rectal cancer. Although it preserves the anatomical continuity of the colon and anus, the postoperative functional outcomes and quality of life (QOL) remains to be confirmed. Current studies have shown that quality of life worsens at the first month after surgery, improves within 3-6 months, and stabilizes at about 1 year. The QOL was associated with patient-related factors, tumor-related factors, treatment-related factors and postoperative complications. For patient-related factors, younger patients have worse role function and sexual function but better cognitive function and physical function. Male patients deteriorate significantly in sexual and social function. For tumor-related factors, patients with lower rectal cancer have poorer defecation function. Those with advanced rectal cancer are more likely to suffer from side-effects related to chemotherapy. For treatment-related factors, patients undergoing intersphincteric resection have worse role function, body image and sexual interest. Preventive ileostomy results in the deterioration of role function, body image and sexual interest. Chemotherapy causes taste changes and chest pain. For postoperative complication, patients with anastomotic leakage have worse bowel function and psychological state. Patients with major low anterior resection syndrome and genitourinary dysfunction have worse global health score, social function and role function. In conclusion, short-term quality of life after sphincteric-saving surgery is acceptable. To improve QOL, specific intervention and guidance should be given to patients in this stage. Meanwhile, since many factors influence the quality of life simultaneously, researchers are confused about the questionnaire outcomes. Therefore, more specific and comprehensive tools are needed to evaluate QQL after sphincteric-saving surgery.

Streptomyces cavernae sp. nov., a novel actinobacterium isolated from a karst cave sediment sample

A novel actinobacterial strain, designated SYSU K10008^T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from a karst cave in Xingyi County, Guizhou Province, south-western PR China. The taxonomic position of the strain was investigated by using a polyphasic approach. Cells of the strain were aerobic, Gram-stain-positive and non-motile. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities and the results of phylogenetic analysis, strain SYSU K10008^T was most closely related to Streptomyces cyaneus CGMCC 4.1671^T, and shared the highest sequence identity of 98.3 % based on the NCBI database. In addition, ll-diaminopimelic acid was the diagnostic diamino acid in cell-wall peptidoglycan. The whole-cell sugars were glucose and rhamnose. The major isoprenoid quinone was MK-9(H₆), while the major fatty acids (>10 %) were C_16 : 0, iso-C_16 : 0, anteiso-C_15 : 0 and summed feature 3 (C_16 : 1 ω7c/C_{16  : 1} ω6c). The polar lipids contained diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside and one unidentified lipid. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain SYSU K10008^T was 70.5 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic data, strain SYSU K10008^T represents a novel species of the genus Streptomyces, for which the name Streptomyces cavernae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SYSU K10008^T (=KCTC 39850^T=DSM 104115^T).

[Looking back 2019: focusing on the development and research of colorectal surgery in China]

Although the surgical treatment of colorectal disease progresses slowly, with the advancement of minimally invasive surgical techniques, perioperative comprehensive treatment strategies and clinical research in recent years, Chinese colorectal surgery has developed rapidly. Transanal total mesorectal excision, lateral pelvic lymph node dissection,"watch and wait"strategy for clinical complete response of neoadjuvant radiotherapy for rectal cancer, and robotic colorectal surgery are still hot topics in colorectal surgery in recent years. The construction of clinical registry database and clinical research for colorectal cancer surgery are discussed, with a view to combing the development of colorectal surgery for colleagues in the surgical field, and to seek the development of colorectal surgery in China.

[The individualized strategy for lateral pelvic lymph node dissection in advanced rectal cancer]

Recently, with the development and widespread application of total mesorectal excision and neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, the long-term overall survival and disease-free survival of patients with middle & low rectal cancer have been greatly improved. Moreover, there are also researches in minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy and robotic surgical system in the radical rectal surgery, as well as the combination of tumor molecular targeting markers and gene sequencing technology. Nowadays, the treatment of rectal cancer has entered a new era of individualized precise medicine. However, there are still some controversies in lateral lymph node dissection. The criteria of diagnosis and treatment, neoadjuvant therapy, indications of lateral lymph node dissection, the area of dissection and neuroprotection are still unsatisfactory. It is necessary to explore the personalized treatment strategies of lateral lymph node dissection in the precise medical era.

[Effect of death decoy receptor 3 on prognosis of breast cancer and function of breast cancer cells in vitro]

Objective: To study the effect of death decoy receptor 3 on the prognosis of breast cancer and the invasive function of breast cancer cells in vitro. Methods: Expression of DcR3 were assessed qualitatively by Q-PCR to analyze the correlation in 115 mammary tissue samples with a 10-year median follow-up. The expression of DcR3 was examined in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines using immunocytochemical staining and RT-PCR. DcR3 knock-down cell sub-lines were constructed. The effects of reduced DcR3 expression were observed by establishing invasion and migration models. Results: Patients were divided into the good prognosis group (n=81) and the poor prognosis group (n=26). The expression of DcR3 in the poor prognosis group (133 350+49 646 copies/50 ng RNA)was significantly higher than that in the good prognosis group (5 393+1 428 copies/50 ng RNA, P=0.020). DcR3 transcripts were found to be increased significantly in grade 2 cancers compared to well differentiated grade 1(82 844±34 068 copies/50 ng RNA, n=39,) vs (5 371±3 500 copies/50 ng RNA, n=20, P=0.029).The DcR3 gene of MCF7 cell line and MDA-MB-231 cell line were successfully knocked out and verified that DcR3 knockout. And the invasion and migration of MCF7 cells were inhibited (P=0.009, P=0.001). However, no significant difference was found in these two aspects of the MDA-MB-231 cell line (P=0.475, P=0.102). Conclusion: DcR3 promotes the capacity of invasion of breast cancer cells and plays an important role in the metastasis of breast cancer. DcR3 detection is helpful to the judgment about prognosis of breast cancer.

Nocardia aurea sp. nov., a novel actinobacterium isolated from a karstic subterranean environment

A novel actinobacterium, designated strain SYSU K10002^T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from a karst cave in Xingyi county, Guizhou province, south-western China. The taxonomic position of the strain was investigated using a polyphasic approach. Cells of the strain were aerobic and Gram-stain-positive. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities and phylogenetic analysis, strain SYSU K10002^T was most closely related to the type strains of Nocardiaaltamirensis NBRC 108246^T (99.0 % sequence similarity) and Nocardiatenerifensis NBRC 101015^T (98.8 %) and is therefore considered to represent a member of the genus Nocardia. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain SYSU K10002^T and the closely related type strains of the genus Nocardia were less than 70 %. In addition, meso-diaminopimelic acid was the diagnostic diamino acid in the cell-wall peptidoglycan. The whole-cell sugars were arabinose, ribose and galactose. The major isoprenoid quinone was MK-8(H4,ω-cycl), while the major fatty acids (>10 %) were C16 : 0, C18 : 1ω9c and C18 : 0 10-methyl. The polar lipids contained diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside and an unidentified glycolipid. Mycolic acids were present. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain SYSU K10002^T was 67.4 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic data, strain SYSU K10002^T represents a novel species of the genus Nocardia, for which the name Nocardiaaurea sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SYSU K10002^T (=KCTC 39849^T=DSM 103986^T).

Effects of subpressure on the sealing ability of dental sealant in vitro

OBJECTIVES

Pits and fissures sealing with flowable materials is a popular method for preventing caries in preventive dentistry while there is still microleakage existed. This in vitro study aimed to explore the effects of subpressure technique on the sealing ability of pit and fissure sealant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred and forty-one extracted human premolars were collected in this study and treated with different pressure (atmosphere pressure as group C, -0.04 MPa as group S₄ and -0.08 MPa as group S₈). Thermocycling (×5000) was also performed. Penetration percentage, microleakage, cross-sectional microhardness (Knoop, KMH) and mineral loss were evaluated. Kappa tests, Friedman nonparametric and two-way ANOVA were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

Penetration percentages of group S₄ and S₈ were significant higher compared to that of group C. Microleakage of groups was similar before thermocycling, while subpressure groups showed lower scale of microleakage after thermocycling. Data of KMH and mineral loss showed significant differences between subpressure and thermocycling groups.

SIGNIFICANCE

Subpressure technique could increase the penetration of pit and fissure sealant, decrease microleakage and increase resistance of demineralization after thermocycling. This novel technique may have great potential for preventing from secondary caries.

Efficient Capture and High Activity Release of Circulating Tumor Cells by Using TiO2 Nanorod Arrays Coated with Soluble MnO2 Nanoparticles

Effective capture and release of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) with high viability is still a challenge in medical research. We design a novel approach with efficient yield and high cell activity for the capture and release of CTCs. Our platform is based on TiO₂ nanorod arrays coated with transparent MnO₂ nanoparticles. We use hydrothermal synthesis to prepare TiO₂ nanorod arrays, the MnO₂ nanoparticles are fabricated through in situ self-assembly on the substrate to form a monolayer and etched by oxalic acid with low concentration at room temperature. Up to 92.9% of target cells are isolated from the samples using our capture system and the captured cells can be released from the platform, the saturated release efficiency is 89.9%. Employing lower than 2 × 10^-3 M concentration of oxalic acid to dissolve MnO₂, the viability of MCF-7 cancer cells exceed 90%. Such a combination of the two-dimensional and three-dimensional platforms provides a new approach isolate CTCs from patient blood samples.

Genome sequence and comparative analysis of Jiangella alba YIM 61503T isolated from a medicinal plant Maytenus austroyunnanensis

A draft genome sequence of Jiangella alba YIM 61503^T revealed a genome size of 7,664,864 bp arranged in 33 scaffolds. The genome was predicted to contain 7196 predicted genes, including 51 coding for RNA. Phylogenetic and comparative analyses of the draft genome of J. alba YIM 61503^T with the available genomes of other Jiangella species suggested a proximal similarity between strains J. alba YIM 61503^T and J. muralis DSM 45357^T, while indicating a high divergence between J. gansuensis YIM 002^T and other Jiangella species. The genome of J. alba YIM 61503^T also revealed genes involved in indole-3-acetic acid biosynthesis and an alkylresorcinols gene cluster. Further, detection of phosphotransferase genes in the genome of all Jiangella species indicated that they can uptake and phosphorylate sugars. The presences of TreX-Z, TreS and OtsA-OtsB genes in some of the Jiangella strains also indicated a possible mechanism for their tolerance of high salinity. Besides providing new insights into its genetic features, our results suggested that J. alba YIM 61503^T could be a potential strain for further genome mining studies. The release of this genome may, therefore, provide a better prospect for understanding "evolutionary taxonomy" about this genus in future.

Monovacancy paramagnetism in neutron-irradiated graphite probed by 13C NMR

We report on the magnetic properties of monovacancy defects in neutron-irradiated graphite, probed by ¹³C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The bulk paramagnetism of the defect moments is revealed by the temperature dependence of the NMR frequency shift and spectral linewidth, both of which follow a Curie behavior, in agreement with measurements of the macroscopic magnetization. Compared to pristine graphite, the fluctuating hyperfine fields generated by the defect moments lead to an enhancement of the ¹³C nuclear spin-lattice relaxation rate [Formula: see text] by about two orders of magnitude. With an applied magnetic field of 7.1 T, the temperature dependence of [Formula: see text] below about 10 K can well be described by a thermally activated form, [Formula: see text], yielding a singular Zeeman energy of ([Formula: see text]) meV, in excellent agreement with the sole presence of polarized, non-interacting defect moments.

Nonomuraea cavernae sp. nov., a novel actinobacterium isolated from a karst cave sample

A novel actinobacterial strain, designated SYSU K10005^T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from a karst cave in Xingyi county, Guizhou province, south-west China. The taxonomic position of the strain was investigated using a polyphasic approach. Cells of the strain were aerobic and Gram-stain-positive. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain SYSU K10005^T was most closely related to the type strains of the genus Nonomuraea, and shared highest sequence similarity of 98.4 % with Nonomuraea candida HMC10^T. DNA-DNA hybridization values between the two strains were less than 70 %. The whole-cell hydrolysates of strain SYSU K10005^T contained meso-diaminopimelic acid (diagnostic diamino acid), and arabinose, madurose and rhamnose (whole-cell sugars). The major isoprenoid quinone was MK-9(H4), while the major fatty acids were iso-C16 : 0, 10-methyl C17 : 0, C17 : 1ω8c and C17 : 0. The polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, hydroxyl-phosphatidylethanolamine, lyso-phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannosides, an unidentified lipid, two unidentified ninhydrin-positive phosphoglycolipids and two unidentified phospholipids. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain SYSU K10005^T was 64.2 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic data, strain SYSU K10005^T can be characterized to represent a novel species of the genus Nonomuraea, for which the name Nonomuraea cavernae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SYSU K10005^T (=KCTC 39805^T=CGMCC 4.7368^T).

[Detection and clinical significance of circulating tumor cells in patients with colorectal carcinoma]

Objective: To detect circulating tumor cells (CTC) in patients with colorectal carcinoma and to evaluate the relationship among CTC, clinic-pathological characteristics and prognosis of colorectal carcinoma. Methods: Peripheral blood samples were obtained from 109 patients with colorectal carcinoma in Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University from April 2014 to October 2016. There were 60 male and 49 female patients, aging from 33 to 86 years with a mean age of (65±10) years.CTC were detected using density-gradient centrifugation and immunofluorescence staining. χ(2) test, Fisher exact test and rank-sum test were used to analyze the relation between positive rate of CTC and clinical characteristic, respectively. The correlation analysis of CTC and common tumor markers was detected by χ(2) test and Spearman test. The overall survival of patients was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier curve and Cox proportional hazard model. Results: CTC were found in 71 of the 109 patients with colorectal carcinoma. The presence of CTC was significantly correlated with N stage (Z=4.422, P=0.035) and M stage (χ(2)=4.424, P=0.049). However, CTC was not significantly correlated with age, sex, tumor location, tumor size, differentiation, T stage, Ki-67 and TNM stage (P>0.05). Meanwhile, there was significant correlation between CTC and carcino-embryonic antigen (CEA) (χ(2)=4.897, P=0.027; r=0.212, P=0.027) indicated by χ(2) test and Spearman correlations analysis. The positive rate of CTC was higher than that of CEA (χ(2)=15.45, P=0.000). Survival analysis suggested that positive CTC was poor for overall survival in colorectal cancer with adjusted HR as 3.023(95%CI: 1.330 to 6.872, P=0.008). Conclusions: CTC is helpful to early diagnosis tumor recurrence and metastasis. Hence, combined multiple tumor markers, including the CTC as common indicators of tumor diagnosis, relapse and metastasis could effectively improve the accuracy of diagnosis.

Lentzea cavernae sp. nov., an actinobacterium isolated from a karst cave sample, and emended description of the genus Lentzea

A novel actinobacterial strain, designated SYSU K10001T, was isolated from a limestone sample collected from a karst cave in Xingyi county, Guizhou province, south-western China. The taxonomic position of the strain was investigated using a polyphasic approach. Cells of the strain were aerobic and Gram-stain-positive. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain SYSU K10001T was most closely related to the type strains of the genus Lentzea, Lentzea albida NBRC 16102T (98.8 % similarity) and Lentzea waywayandensis NRRL B-16159T (98.6 %), and is therefore considered to represent a member of the genus Lentzea. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain SYSU K10001T and related type strains of the genus Lentzea were less than 70 %. In addition, meso-diaminopimelic acid was the diagnostic diamino acid in the cell-wall peptidoglycan. The whole-cell sugars were arabinose, fructose, mannose and xylose. The major isoprenoid quinone was MK-9(H4), while the major fatty acids (>10 %) were iso-C16 : 0 and C14 : 0. The polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, hydroxy-phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannoside, one unidentified phospholipid and one unidentified lipid. The genomic DNA G+C content of strain SYSU K10001T was 69.4 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic data, strain SYSU K10001T represents a novel species of the genus Lentzea, for which the name Lentzea cavernae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SYSU K10001T (=KCTC 39804T=CGMCC 4.7367T=NBRC 112394T).

Nocardioides cavernae sp. nov., an actinobacterium isolated from a karst cave

A novel actinobacterial strain, designated YIM A1136T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from a karst cave in Xingyi county, Guizhou province, south-western China. The taxonomic position of the strain was investigated using a polyphasic approach. Cells of the strain were aerobic, Gram-staining-positive and rod-shaped. Colonies of the strain were circular, convex, opaque and yellowish-white in colour. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain YIM A1136T was most closely related to the type strains Nocardioides ganghwensis JC2055T (98.3 % sequence similarity), Nocardioides exalbidus RC825T (98.2 %), Nocardioides alpinus Cr7-14T (98.2 %), Nocardioides hwasunensis HFW-21T (98.0 %), Nocardioides oleivorans DSM 16090T (97.9 %) and Nocardioides furvisabuli SBS-26T (97.8 %) and is therefore considered to represent a member of the genus Nocardioides. DNA-DNA hybridization values between strain YIM A1136T and related type strains of the genus Nocardioides were less than 70 %. ll-Diaminopimelic acid was the diagnostic diamino acid in the cell-wall peptidoglycan. The whole-cell sugars were galactose, glucose, mannose, rhamnose and ribose. The major isoprenoid quinone was MK-8(H4), while the major fatty acids (>10 %) were C16 : 0, summed feature 3 and summed feature 8. The polar lipids comprised diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol and two unidentified phospholipids. The genomic DNA G+C content was 71.4 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic data, strain YIM A1136T merits representation of a novel species of the genus Nocardioides, for which the name Nocardioides cavernae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is YIM A1136T (=KCTC 39551T=DSM 29950T).

[Certain experiences in sequential treatment of occlusal reconstruction]

Occlusal reconstruction is a complex sequential treatment. The treatment may involve changes in occlusal vertical dimension and the full dental arch occlusal surface reconstruction. In this paper, we discussed the most concerned aspects of prosthodontists during the occlusal reconstruction sequential treatment, how to determine the suitable occlusal vertical dimension, rebuilding of occlusal plane, and consideratiom of temporomandibular joint disorders during reconstruction treatment. The prosthodontists should adopt the multidisciplinary collaboration mode of thinking in analysis, design, treatment, and restoration processes, regarding patients' individual characteristic through the occlusal reconstruction sequential treatment, and to reach healthy, functional, aesthetic outcome eventually.

Field-stepped broadband NMR in pulsed magnets and application to SrCu2(BO3)2 at 54T

Pulsed magnets generate the highest magnetic fields as brief transients during which the observation of NMR is difficult, however, this is the only route to unique insight into material properties up to the regime of 100T. Here, it is shown how rather broad NMR spectra can be assembled in a pulsed magnet during a single field pulse by using the inherent time dependence of the field for the recording of field-stepped free induction decays that cover a broad frequency range. The technique is then applied to (11)B NMR of the spin-dimer system SrCu2(BO3)2, a magnetic insulator known to undergo a series of field-driven changes of the magnetic ground state. At peak fields of about 54T at the Dresden High Magnetic Field Laboratory, (11)B NMR spectra spanning a total of about 9MHz width are reconstructed. The results are in good accordance with a change from a high-temperature paramagnetic state to a low-temperature commensurate superstructure of field-induced spin-dimer triplets.

Association of thymidylate synthase polymorphisms with the tumor response to preoperative chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Preoperative chemoradiotherapy (pCRT) followed by surgery is currently the standard therapy for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. It is very important to develop biomarkers to prior identify the patients who have a higher likelihood of responding to pCRT. Recently, a series of studies have been conducted to investigate the association of thymidylate synthase (TYMS) polymorphisms with the tumor response to pCRT in rectal cancer, but the results were not consistent and conclusive. In the present study, we performed a systematic literature search for relevant studies up to 30 March 2015 and conducted a meta-analysis to summarize and clarify the association between the TYMS polymorphisms and the tumor response to pCRT in rectal cancer. Finally, 7 studies containing 892 cases for TYMS 2R/3R polymorphism, 7 studies involving 715 cases for TYMS 1494del6 polymorphism and 6 studies containing 616 cases for TYMS 5' untranslated region (UTR) expression allele polymorphism were analyzed in the meta-analysis. The results suggested that TYMS 2R/3R was associated with the response and the patients with 2R/2R or 2R/3R genotype with rectal cancer might benefit more from pCRT than others. On the contrary, neither 1494del6 nor 5'UTR expression allele polymorphisms was associated with the response to pCRT.

Learning curve and outcome of laparoscopic transcystic common bile duct exploration for choledocholithiasis

BACKGROUND

The best approach for cholecystocholedocholithiasis remains a matter of debate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical aspects, learning curve and outcome of laparoscopic transcystic common bile duct exploration (LTCBDE).

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy with LTCBDE between January 2007 and December 2012 were identified from an institutional database. Data on preoperative investigations, intraoperative and postoperative findings were retrieved retrospectively from the patients' hospital notes.

RESULTS

There were 399 women (56·4 per cent) and 309 men (43·6 per cent), with a median age of 58 (range 18-87) years. Microincision (incision of the cystic duct at the confluence with the common bile duct (CBD) with extension of only 3-5 mm at the lateral margin of the CBD) and lithotripsy were used in the transcystic exploration in 119 patients, and increased the success rate of LTCBDE from 74·2 to 91·0 per cent. The median duration of operation was 85 (i.q.r. 65-120) min and the median postoperative hospital stay was 2 (1-3) days. Retained common bile duct stones were observed in 13 patients, and postoperative complications developed in 27 patients. The cumulative sum duration of operation learning curve comprised two phases; phase 1 included the first 250 patients and phase 2 the remaining 458 patients. Duration of operation and postoperative hospital stay decreased with increasing volume per surgeon. Recurrence of common bile duct stones was diagnosed in 26 patients during a median follow-up of 4 years.

CONCLUSION

LTCBDE with or without microincision and/or lithotripsy is a safe and effective approach.

Effects of anodic titanium dioxide nanotubes of different diameters on macrophage secretion and expression of cytokines and chemokines

OBJECTIVES

To investigate effects of TiO2 nanotubes of different diameters on J744A.1 macrophage behaviour, secretion and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Macrophage-like J744A.1 cells were cultured on three types of Ti surface: mechanically polished titanium plus 30 and 80 nm TiO2 nanotube surfaces, for 4, 24 and 48 h. Macrophage adhesion and proliferation were assessed using CCK-8 assay. Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) and chemokines (MCP-1 and MIP-1α) secreted into the supernatant were measured using the Cytometric Bead Arrays kit. TNF-α, MCP-1 and MIP-1α gene expression were quantitatively analysed by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

These show that TiO2 nanotube surfaces, especially of 80 nm TiO2 nanotube, benefited macrophage adhesion and proliferation, and reduced protein secretion and mRNA expression of TNF-α, MCP-1 and MIP-1α. IL-1β and IL-6 were undetectable on all the surfaces at all times.

CONCLUSIONS

TiO2 nanotube surfaces, especially of 80 nm TiO2 nanotube, reduced inflammatory response in vitro, which might be part of a basis for rapid osseointegration in implants with TiO2 nanotube surfaces in animal studies.

Characterization of chicken natural resistance-associated macrophage protein encoding genes (Nramp1 and Nramp2) and association with salmonellosis resistance

Natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 and 2 encoding genes (Nramp1 and Nramp2) are related to many diseases. We cloned the cDNA of chicken Nramp1 and Nramp2 genes, characterized their expression and polymorphisms, and investigated the association of some SNPs with resistance to salmonellosis. The Nramp1 cDNA was 1746 bp long and the Nramp2 cDNA was 1938 bp long. These cDNAs are similar to previously reported cDNAs, varying by two and one amino acids, respectively. The chicken Nramp1 gene expressed predominantly in liver, thymus and spleen in both females and males. The Nramp2 gene expressed in almost all tissues, but predominantly in breast muscle, leg muscle, cerebrum, cerebellum, lung, kidney, and heart in both females and males. We identified 45 SNPs and 2 indels in the chicken Nramp1 gene; three of 13 SNPs in the exons were missense mutations (Arg223Gln, Ala273Glu and Arg497Gln). Association analysis indicated that A24101991G is significantly associated with chicken salmonellosis resistance. These results will be useful for functional investigation of chicken Nramp1 and Nramp2 genes.

Doping effects of Co and Cu on superconductivity and magnetism in Fe1+yTe0.6Se0.4 single crystals

We report on the investigation of Co and Cu substitution effects on superconductivity and magnetism in Fe(1+y)Te(0.6)Se(0.4) single crystals. The parent Fe(1.01)Te(0.59)Se(0.41) shows a nodeless bulk superconductivity as revealed in heat capacity measurement, which is gradually suppressed by either Co or Cu doping. It is found that the Co or Cu doping mainly serves as scatterers rather than charge carrier doping, which is in agreement with the DFT calculation (2010 Phys. Rev. Lett. 105 157004) reported by Wadati et al. In comparison with Cu doping, Co doping shows a stronger influence on magnetism while a less evident suppression effect on superconductivity. Upon substitution of Co for Fe, a Schottky heat capacity anomaly develops gradually at low temperatures, implying the existence of a paramagnetic moment in the Co-doped samples. In contrast, Cu doping may mainly serve as non-magnetic scatterers, where no Schottky anomaly is observed.

The influencing factor of in vitro fertilization and embryonic transfer in the domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus)

This study was conducted to explore the influencing factors of ova in vitro fertilization (IVF) and transfer of the fertilized ova into the oviduct of recipient hens. The efficiency of fertilization was compared using three aspects: (i) the different time of ova collection and transfer, (ii) egg-laying period of recipient hen; and (iii) semen volume. The following results are observed: 72%, 40% and 0% of ova were found in ovarian sac in 30∼40 min, 50∼60 min and more than 90 min post-oviposition, respectively; 20%, 18%, 14% and 5.8% of ova were fertilized with 0.1, 0.2, 0.5 and 1.0 ml semen, respectively; and 33% and 100% of healthy chickens were hatched from fertile ova with 0.1 and 0.5 ml of semen, respectively. All oocytes obtained from ovary and mid-oviduct were unfertilized. Embryos were transferred into recipient hens 30 min ± 10 min post-oviposition, and 70% of shelled eggs were produced. There were no eggs produced in the other transfer times. This demonstrated that live chicken can be obtained by IVF of ova collected shortly after oviposition. It was important that the ovum was transferred into the oviduct infundibulum of recipient hens immediately or shortly after oviposition.

Randomized clinical trial of intravenous soybean oil alone versus soybean oil plus fish oil emulsion after gastrointestinal cancer surgery

BACKGROUND

Specific immunonutrients may reduce the incidence of postoperative complications and shorten recovery time. This randomized trial evaluated the clinical efficacy of a fish oil emulsion on outcome and immune function after gastrointestinal cancer surgery.

METHODS

A total of 206 patients with gastrointestinal or colonic cancer were randomized to receive isocaloric and isonitrogenous intravenous infusions of either soybean oil alone (1.2 g per kg bodyweight per day; control group, 103 analysed) or soybean plus fish oil emulsion (1.0 and 0.2 g per kg per day respectively; treatment group, 100 analysed) over 20-24 h daily for 7 days after surgery.

RESULTS

Baseline data were comparable in the two groups. There were fewer infectious complications (four versus 12 on day 8; P = 0.066), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) was significantly less common (four versus 13; P = 0.039) and hospital stay was significantly shorter (mean(s.d.) 15(5) versus 17(8) days; P = 0.041) in the treatment group. Total postoperative medical costs were comparable in the two groups (mean(s.d.) US $ 1269(254) and 1302(324) in treatment and control groups respectively; P = 0.424). The median (interquartile range) difference in CD4/CD8 between days 1 and 8 after surgery was + 0.30 (0.06 to 0.79) in patients receiving fish oil and + 0.20 (-0.19 to 0.55) in controls (P = 0.021). No severe adverse events occurred in either group.

CONCLUSION

Fish oil emulsion-supplemented parenteral nutrition significantly reduced SIRS and length of hospital stay. These clinical benefits may be related to normalization of cellular immune functions and modulation of the inflammatory response.

Effects of selenium and iodine deficiency on bone, cartilage growth plate and chondrocyte differentiation in two generations of rats

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the roles of combined selenium and iodine deficiency in bone development as a possible experimental model of Kashin-Beck osteoarthropathy.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats (n=48) were randomly divided into selenium deficiency (-Se+I), iodine deficiency (+Se-I), combined selenium and iodine deficiency (-Se-I), and selenium and iodine sufficient (+Se+I) groups. Growth of bone and cartilage, and the expression of type X collagen (ColX) and parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) were measured in two generations of rats (F(0) and F(1)).

RESULTS

The tibial length in -Se-I rats was significantly shorter in F(1) generation. In +Se-I of F(1) rats, the thickness of the growth plate cartilage, and the proliferative zone was smaller, while in -Se-I rats the growth plate, and the proliferative and hypertrophic zones were also thinner in F(1) generation. In articular cartilage, ColX expression was increased in the deep zone in -Se-I rats of F(0) generation, and in -Se+I, +Se-I and -Se-I rats of F(1) generation. PTHrP expression was increased in the middle zone of -Se+I, +Se-I and -Se-I rats of both F(0) and F(1) generations. In the growth plate cartilage, ColX and PTHrP were expressed in the hypertrophic zone. ColX expression was significantly weaker in -Se+I and -Se-I rats in both F(0) and F(1) generations, while PTHrP expression was stronger in -Se+I, +Se-I and -Se-I rats in both F(0) and F(1) animals.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined selenium and iodine deficiency impaired the growth of bone and cartilage. The changes in the expression of ColX and PTHrP induced by combined selenium and iodine deficiency were compatible to measurements of ColX and PTHrP in Kashin-Beck osteoarthropathy.

Uniform formation of uranium oxide nanocrystals inside ordered mesoporous hosts and their potential applications as oxidative catalysts

Highly dispersed uranium oxide nanocrystals supported on ordered mesoporous silica matrixes with large surface areas and porosities have been synthesized via a co-assembly methodology; the preliminary catalysis tests showed that these materials have a high catalytic activity for the thermal oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Role of Ha-ras activation in superficial papillary pathway of urothelial tumor formation

Urothelial tumors develop along two distinctive phenotypic pathways (superficial papillary non-invasive tumors versus flat carcinoma in situ lesions), with markedly different biological behavior and prognosis. Although multiple genetic alterations have been identified in human bladder cancer, their cause-effect relationship with the two pathways has not been firmly established. Using a urothelium-specific promoter of the uroplakin II gene, we showed earlier in transgenic mice that the urothelial expression of SV40T antigen, which inactivates p53 and pRb, induced carcinoma in situ and invasive and metastatic bladder cancer. In striking contrast, we demonstrate here that the urothelial expression of an activated Ha-ras in transgenic mice caused urothelial hyperplasia and superficial papillary non-invasive bladder tumors. These results provide strong, direct experimental evidence that the two phenotypical pathways of bladder tumorigenesis are caused by distinctive genetic defects. Our results indicate that Ha-ras activation can induce urothelial proliferation in vivo; and that urothelial hyperplasia is a precursor of low-grade, superficial papillary bladder tumors. Our transgenic models provide unique opportunities to study the detailed molecular events underlying different types of bladder neoplasms, and can serve as useful preclinical models for evaluating the in vivo efficacy of preventive and therapeutic agents that act on various signaling pathways in bladder cancer.