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Background Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) can promote fat graft survival, but the reported mixing ratio of PRF to fat ranges from 1:25 to 1:2, lacking a clear standard for clinical application. Objectives The authors sought to explore the long-term effects of PRF on grafted fat and their optimal mixing ratio. Methods Nude mice were randomly divided into a control group (receiving subcutaneous injection of fat granules) and 4 PRF groups (receiving subcutaneous injection of PRF and fat granules at volume ratios of 1:5, 1:10, 1:15, and 1:20, respectively). The graft samples (n = 12) were obtained in weeks 4, 8, and 12 to (1) calculate retention rates; (2) evaluate gene and protein expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), type I collagen A1 (COL1-A1), and B-cell lymphoma-2 associated X protein (BAX); (3) perform hematoxylin and eosin, Masson’s trichrome, α-smooth muscle action, and periplipin-1 stainings; and (4) count the microvessels and viable adipocytes. Results Compared with the control group, PRF groups had higher retention rates, a higher gene/protein expression of VEGF-A, a lower gene/protein expression of COL1-A1 and BAX, less fibrosis, and more microvessels and viable adipocytes. Group 1:10 was superior to other groups in terms of retention rates and other evaluation indexes. The expression of PPAR-γ did not significantly differ among groups. Conclusions PRF may not play a long-term effect on adipogenesis, but it can still promote fat graft survival through facilitating vascularization, regulating collagen production, and inhibiting apoptosis. PRF can achieve the best promoting effect when the mixing ratio of PRF to fat is 1:10, which is recommended as the optimal ratio for clinical application.

Previous studies of correlations of microRNA (miR)-499 rs3746444 and miR-196a-2 rs11614913 polymorphisms with glioma risk have yielded inconsistent results. In this study, relationships between these two polymorphisms and glioma risk and survival were evaluated. In total, 605 patients and 1,300 controls were genotyped. rs3746444 increased glioma risk in five genetic models (GA versus AA, odds ratio [OR], 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.31 [1.05–1.66], p = 0.02; GG versus AA, OR [95% CI] = 10.70 [6.13–18.69], p < 0.0001; GA + GG versus AA, OR [95% CI] = 1.82 [1.47–2.24], p < 0.0001; GG versus AA + GA, OR [95% CI] = 9.99 [5.74–17.40], p < 0.0001; G versus A, OR [95% CI] = 2.18 [1.82–2.60], p < 0.0001). rs11614913 decreased glioma risk in a recessive model (OR [95% CI] = 0.79 [0.64–0.97], p = 0.03). No relationships between either SNP and survival were found. rs3746444 in the miR-499 seed region could affect target recognition. Bioinformatics analyses indicated that miR-499 rs3746444 is involved in various biological processes and pathways, including “cell adhesion molecule binding,” “positive regulation of catabolic process,” “NF-kappa B pathway,” and “PI3K-Akt pathway,” by targeting mRNAs. Our results suggested that miR-499 rs3746444 and miR-196a-2 rs11614913 have crucial roles in glioma susceptibility., Graphical Abstract, Relationships between miR-499 rs3746444 and miR-196a-2 rs11614913 polymorphisms and glioma susceptibility and survival were investigated. rs3746444 increased glioma risk, whereas rs11614913 decreased glioma risk. However, no relationships between either SNP and survival were found. These results first highlight that miR-499 rs3746444 and miR-196a-2 rs11614913 have crucial roles in glioma susceptibility.

This study aimed to explore the roles of ERCC1/XPF gene polymorphisms in the occurrence of breast cancer in the Uygur and Han ethnic groups in Xinjiang, China. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected by TaqMan real‐time PCR. The rs11615 G>A and rs2276466 C>G variant frequencies were higher in Uygur patients with breast cancer than in Han patients, while the frequency of rs2298881 C>A was higher in Han patients. We found that rs2298881 C>A (CA vs. CC: OR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.20‐0.60; AA vs. CC: OR = 0.13, 95% CI = 0.04‐0.34; CA + AA vs. CC: OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.18‐0.51; AA vs. CA + CC: OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.08‐0.62; CA vs. AA + CC: OR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.29‐0.82) was associated with a reduced breast cancer risk and rs3212986 C>A (AA vs. CC: OR = 4.80, 95% CI = 1.79‐15.29,; CA+AA vs. CC: OR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.06‐2.77; AA vs. CA+CC: OR = 4.12, 95% CI =1.58‐12.89) and rs11615 G > A (AA vs. GG: OR = 3.49, 95% CI =1.54‐8.55; GA + AA vs. GG: OR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.21‐3.27; AA vs. GA+GG: OR = 2.87, 95% CI = 1.30‐6.85) were associated with an elevated breast cancer risk among Uygur individuals. In addition, Uygur patients with breast cancer with 2‐3 combined risk genotypes of ERCC1 had a higher risk than patients with 0‐1 risk genotypes (OR = 2.91; 95% CI = 1.54‐5.71, p = 0.001). However, we failed to detect a statistically significant association between ERCC1/XPF polymorphisms and breast cancer risk in five genetic models among Han individuals. Our results showed that ERCC1/XPF gene polymorphisms predispose Uygur individuals to breast cancer; this finding should be verified by further large‐scale analyses., Distribution of ERCC1/XPF gene polymorphisms in Han and Uygur women with breast cancer was different. ERCC1/XPF gene polymorphisms predispose Uygur individuals to breast cancer.

The association between vitamin C intake and breast cancer is unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to precisely assess the association of vitamin C intake with breast cancer risk and mortality. We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases up to June 2020 and found 69 studies relevant to breast cancer risk (54 studies) and survival (15 studies). Relative risks and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the random-effects models. Pooled results suggested that the highest versus lowest vitamin C intake was significantly associated with a lower risk of breast cancer incidence (Relative Risk = 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.81-0.92). Dietary vitamin C but not supplements was found to reduce breast cancer risk (Relative Risk = 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.82-0.96). For the highest versus lowest vitamin C intake, the pooled hazard risk for breast cancer-specific mortality was 0.78 (95% confidence interval, 0.69-0.88), totality mortality was 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.74-0.91), and recurrence was 0.81 (95% confidence interval, 0.67-0.99). Our analysis suggests that higher vitamin C intake is significantly associated with reduced breast cancer incidence and mortality. However, the intake of vitamin C supplements has no significant effect on breast cancer prevention.

Background Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) can promote fat graft survival, but limited data are currently available, and the underlying mechanism of this effect has not yet been explained. Objectives The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism by which PRF promotes fat graft survival, from the aspects of angiogenesis, adipogenesis, cellular apoptosis, and collagen production. Methods Nude mice were randomly assigned to a PRF group (subcutaneously injected with PRF and fat in the ratio of 1:5 by volume) and a control group (subcutaneously injected with normal saline and fat in the ratio of 1:5 by volume). On days 0, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 after transplantation, graft samples (n = 12) were obtained for quantification of target growth factors. In weeks 1, 2, 3, and 4 after transplantation, graft samples (n = 12) were obtained for the following evaluations. The volume and weight retention rates were calculated; gene and protein expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ), COL1-A1, and BAX were evaluated; hematoxylin & eosin staining, Masson’s trichrome staining, α smooth muscle actin staining, and perilipin-1 staining were performed to evaluate graft survival. Results After transplantation, the concentrations of growth factors produced by the fat increased to varying degrees, and the addition of PRF made these concentration changes ever greater. Compared with the control group, the PRF group had a higher volume and weight retention rate, a higher expression level of VEGF-A and PPAR-γ, a lower expression level of COL1-A1 and BAX, a higher vessel density, less fibrosis, and more viable adipocytes. Conclusions PRF can promote autocrine function of the grafted fat to produce more growth factors. It greatly increased fat retention rate, possibly by promoting vascularization and adipogenic differentiation, inhibiting cellular apoptosis, and regulating collagen production.

Larynx cancer is one of the most common cancers in head and neck. This study aimed to investigate the health burden of larynx cancer at global, regional, and national levels. We collected data of larynx cancer between 1990 and 2017 from the Global Burden of Disease study, including incidence, mortality, and disability adjusted life-years (DALYs). Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to assess the changes in age-standardized rate (ASR) of larynx cancer. From 1990 to 2017, LC incident cases increased by 58.67%; however, age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) decreased, with an EAPC of -0.99. Additionally, the incident cases and ASIR of LC were 6-fold higher for male than those for female in 2017. Over the past 28 years, deaths and DALYs of larynx cancer increased by 33.84% and 25%. Contrarily, age-standardized death and DALY rate showed a downward trend. Incidence, death, and DALYs of larynx cancer were always the highest in people aged 50-69 years. Overall, all the ASRs showed downward trends globally. The majority of larynx cancer burden was observed in men, especially among male aged 50-69 years. South and East Asia carried the heaviest burden of larynx cancer worldwide.

Epidemiological studies have indicated that blood vitamin D levels are linked to cancer. Here we conducted a dose-response meta-analysis based on published observational studies to evaluate the association of vitamin D intake and blood vitamin D levels with breast cancer susceptibility. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were searched up to January 2019. The pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted to estimate the risk. We identified 70 relevant studies on blood vitamin D levels (50 studies) and vitamin D intake (20 studies), respectively. Linear and nonlinear trend analyses were performed and showed that an increase in blood vitamin D levels by 5 nmol/l was associated with a 6% decrease in breast cancer risk (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.93-0.96). Similar results were obtained for premenopausal (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.93-0.99) and postmenopausal women (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.94-0.98). The pooled OR of breast cancer risk for a 400IU/day increase in vitamin D intake was 0.97 (95% CI = 0.92-1.02). In conclusion, we found that breast cancer risk was inversely related to blood vitamin D levels; however, no significant association was observed in vitamin D intake.

MicroRNAs bind to the 3′ untranslated regions of mRNAs, affecting translation, tumorigenesis, and apoptosis. This study evaluated the role of TYMS (rs1059394, C > T, and rs2847153, G > A), RYR3 (rs1044129, G > A), KIAA0423 (rs1053667, T > C), and GOLGA7 (rs11337, G > T) polymorphisms for assessment of glioma risk and prognosis among the Chinese Han population. Five single-nucleotide polymorphisms were assessed in 605 glioma patients and 1,300 controls. We found a significant correlation between rs1059394 and glioma susceptibility in the homozygote and dominant genetic models (TT versus CC, odds ratio [OR] = 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.52–0.97, p = 0.03; CT+TT versus CC, OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.55–0.99, p = 0.04). The results of the Kaplan-Meier and log rank tests revealed that the rs11337 GG genotype correlated with better overall survival of glioma patients (p = 0.017) than the GT genotype. Multivariate Cox regression analysis results also showed that the rs11337 GT genotype correlated with worse overall survival (p = 0.017, hazard ratio [HR] = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.04–1.5) than the GG genotype. These results suggest that GOLGA7 (rs11337) polymorphism may play a role in the prognosis of glioma patients and that TYMS (rs1059394) is associated with glioma risk. Keywords: GOLGA7, rs11337, polymorphism, cancer risk, prognosis, microRNA-binding site

BackgroundStatistical data on the incidence, mortality, and burden of breast cancer and the relevant risk factors are valuable for policy-making. We aimed to estimate breast cancer incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by country, gender, age group, and social-demographic status between 1990 and 2017.MethodsWe extracted breast cancer data from the 2017 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study from 1990 through 2017 in 195 countries and territories. Data about the number of breast cancer incident cases, deaths, DALYs, and the age-standardized rates were collected. We also estimated the risk factors attributable to breast cancer deaths and DALYs using the comparative risk assessment framework of the GBD study.ResultsIn 2017, the global incidence of breast cancer increased to 1,960,681 cases. The high social-development index (SDI) quintile included the highest number of breast cancer death cases. Between 2007 and 2017, the ASDR of breast cancer declined globally, especially in high SDI and high middle SDI countries. The related DALYs were 17,708,600 in 2017 with high middle SDI quintile as the highest contributor. Of the deaths and DALYs, alcohol use was the greatest contributor in most GBD regions and other contributors included high body mass index (BMI) and high fasting plasma glucose.ConclusionThe increasing global breast cancer burden is mainly observed in lower SDI countries; in higher SDI countries, the breast cancer burden tends to be relieving. Therefore, steps against attributable risk factors should be taken to reduce breast cancer burden in lower SDI countries.

Background Thymidylate synthase (TYMS) polymorphisms are reported to be related to susceptibility to some cancers. However, no study exists on TYMS polymorphisms and glioma risk. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between two common TYMS gene variants (rs1059394 C>T, rs2847153 G>A) and glioma susceptibility. Methods This case-control study included 605 patients and 1300 cancer-free individuals. Genotyping was performed using Sequenom Mass-ARRAY. We determined odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to estimate the correlations. Results The analysis revealed that rs1059394 TT and CT+TT genotype had significantly low glioma risk (TT to CC: OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.52-0.97, P = 0.03; CT+TT to CC: OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.55-0.99, P = 0.04). However, no significant difference was found between rs2847153 and glioma risk in any genetic model (P﹥0.05). In high-grade gliomas, the GA and GA+AA genotypes of rs2847153 made the majority of genotypes, compared with GG genotype (GA to GG: OR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.39-2.91, P < 0.001; GA+AA to GG: OR = 1.78, 95% CI =1.25-2.54, P < 0.001). Moreover, online expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) analysis indicated that these two polymorphisms may alter TYMS gene expression in transformed fibroblast cells. Conclusion Our study provides evidence of the effect of TYMS rs1059394 on the susceptibility of glioma. In high-grade gliomas, compared with GG genotype, the GA and GA+AA genotypes of rs2847153 comprise a larger proportion.

Background: Exposure to ambient particulate matter pollution (APMP) is a global health issue that directly affects the human respiratory system. Thus, we estimated the spatiotemporal trends in the burden of APMP-related respiratory diseases from 1990 to 2019.Methods: Based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019, data on the burden of APMP-related respiratory diseases were analyzed by age, sex, cause, and location. Joinpoint regression analysis was used to analyze the temporal trends in the burden of different respiratory diseases over the 30 years.Results: Globally, in 2019, APMP contributed the most to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with 695.1 thousand deaths and 15.4 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs); however, the corresponding age-standardized death and DALY rates declined from 1990 to 2019. Similarly, although age-standardized death and DALY rates since 1990 decreased by 24% and 40%, respectively, lower respiratory infections (LRIs) still had the second highest number of deaths and DALYs attributable to APMP. This was followed by tracheal, bronchus, and lung (TBL) cancer, which showed increased age-standardized death and DALY rates during the past 30 years and reached 3.78 deaths per 100,000 persons and 84.22 DALYs per 100,000 persons in 2019. Among children aged < 5 years, LRIs had a huge burden attributable to APMP, whereas for older people, COPD was the leading cause of death and DALYs attributable to APMP. The APMP-related burdens of LRIs and COPD were relatively higher among countries with low and low-middle socio-demographic index (SDI), while countries with high-middle SDI showed the highest burden of TBL cancer attributable to APMP.Conclusions: APMP contributed substantially to the global burden of respiratory diseases, posing a significant threat to human health. Effective actions aimed at air pollution can potentially avoid an increase in the PM2.5-associated disease burden, especially in highly polluted areas.

BackgroundThe treatment for locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) is a severe clinical problem. The postoperative radiotherapy is a conventional treatment method for patients with LABC, whereas the effect of preoperative radiotherapy on outcome of LABC remains controversial. This study aimed to examine and compare the overall survival (OS) in patients with LABC who underwent preoperative radiotherapy or postoperative radiotherapy.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included 41,618 patients with LABC from the National Cancer Database (NCDB) between 2010 and 2014. We collected patients’ demographic, clinicopathologic, treatment and survival information. Propensity score was used to match patients underwent pre-operative radiotherapy with those who underwent post-operative radiotherapy. Cox proportional hazard regression model was performed to access the association between variables and OS. Log-rank test was conducted to evaluate the difference in OS between groups.ResultsThe estimated median follow-up of all included participants was 69.6 months (IQR: 42.84-60.22); 70.1 months (IQR: 46.85-79.97) for postoperative radiotherapy, 68.5 (IQR: 41.13-78.23) for preoperative radiotherapy, and 67.5 (IQR: 25.92-70.99) for no radiotherapy. The 5-year survival rate was 80.01% (79.56-80.47) for LABC patients who received postoperative radiotherapy, 64.08% (57.55-71.34) for preoperative radiotherapy, and 59.67% (58.60-60.77) for no radiotherapy. Compared with no radiation, patients receiving postoperative radiotherapy had a 38% lower risk of mortality (HR=0.62, 95%CI: 0.60-0.65, pConclusionsPatients with LABC underwent postoperative radiotherapy had improved overall survival, whereas no significant survival benefit was observed in patients receiving preoperative radiotherapy. Preoperative radiotherapy did not present a better survival than postoperative radiotherapy for LABC patients.

Background Liver cancer has caused a serious disease burden worldwide wherein prognostic risk factors may have had a significant role. However, previous studies have focused on liver cancer distributions and trend variations without analyzing the role of risk factors. Methods We assessed liver cancer burden attributable to five recognized risk factors as well as temporal trends from 1990 to 2019 based on the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study. The risk exposure levels and their contributed burden were estimated by cause, sex, age, and location. Furthermore, the relationship between the risks and social-demographic index (SDI) was investigated. Results The total liver cancer burden attributable to risk factors is still increasing year by year in terms of death and disability-adjusted life years. However, the burden attributable to alcohol use and smoking has shown a downward trend in recent years. Risk-related burden in males was more than three times as that in females, the burden among the middle-aged and elderly was the most serious, and Central Asia, high-income Asia Pacific and East Asia exhibited the highest burden worldwide. The exposure levels of the five recognized risk factors were generally positively correlated with SDI value. However, the risk-related liver cancer burden first increased and then decreased with the SDI value. Conclusion These findings could help in understanding the role of prognostic risk factors in liver cancer burden, in promoting the development of relevant studies, and in proposing better prevention and control policies tailored to local conditions.

Key Points Question What are the temporal trends and epidemiological distribution of mesothelioma, and have cases of mesothelioma increased worldwide since 1990? Findings In this cross-sectional study of 21 regions comprising 195 countries and territories, global mesothelioma cases continuously increased, with more than 50% of cases recorded in regions with high sociodemographic index levels; in recent years, incidence and mortality also increased, especially among female individuals, in regions with low sociodemographic index levels. Meaning This study found that incident mesothelioma cases and deaths associated with mesothelioma have continuously increased worldwide, especially in resource-limited regions in which a complete and immediate ban on asbestos use may be warranted., Importance It is difficult for policy makers and clinicians to formulate targeted management strategies for mesothelioma because data on current epidemiological patterns worldwide are lacking. Objective To evaluate the mesothelioma burden across the world and describe its epidemiological distribution over time and by sociodemographic index (SDI) level, geographic location, sex, and age. Design, Setting, and Participants Annual case data and age-standardized rates of incidence, death, and disability-adjusted life-years associated with mesothelioma among different age groups were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease 2017 database. The estimated annual percentage changes in age-standardized rates were calculated to evaluate temporal trends in incidence and mortality. The study population comprised individuals from 21 regions in 195 countries and territories who were diagnosed with mesothelioma between 1990 and 2017. Data were collected from May 23, 2019, to January 18, 2020. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary outcomes were incident cases, deaths, and their age-standardized rates and estimated annual percentage changes. Secondary outcomes were disability-adjusted life-years and relative temporal trends. Results Overall, 34 615 new cases (95% uncertainty interval [UI], 33 530-35 697 cases) of mesothelioma and 29 909 deaths (95% UI, 29 134-30 613 deaths) associated with mesothelioma were identified in 2017, and more than 70% of these cases and deaths were among male individuals. In 1990, the number of incident cases was 21 224 (95% UI, 17 503-25 450), and the number of deaths associated with mesothelioma was 17 406 (95% UI, 14 495-20 660). These numbers increased worldwide from 1990 to 2017, with more than 50% of cases recorded in regions with high SDI levels, whereas the age-standardized incidence rate (from 0.52 [95% UI, 0.43-0.62] in 1990 to 0.44 [95% UI, 0.42-0.45] in 2017) and the age-standardized death rate (from 0.44 [95% UI, 0.37-0.52] in 1990 to 0.38 [95% UI, 0.37-0.39] in 2017) decreased, with estimated annual percentage changes of –0.61 (95% CI, –0.67 to –0.54) for age-standardized incidence rate and −0.44 (95% CI, –0.52 to –0.37) for age-standardized death rate. The proportion of incident cases among those 70 years or older continued to increase (from 36.49% in 1990 to 44.67% in 2017), but the proportion of patients younger than 50 years decreased (from 16.74% in 1990 to 13.75% in 2017) over time. In addition, mesothelioma incident cases and age-standardized incidence rates began to decrease after 20 years of a complete ban on asbestos use. For example, in Italy, a complete ban on asbestos went into effect in 1992; incident cases increased from 1409 individuals (95% UI, 1013-1733 individuals) in 1990, peaked in 2015 after 23 years of the asbestos ban, then decreased from 1820 individuals (95% UI, 1699-1981 individuals) in 2015 to 1746 individuals (95% UI, 1555-1955 individuals) in 2017. Conclusions and Relevance This cross-sectional study found that incident cases of mesothelioma and deaths associated with mesothelioma continuously increased worldwide, especially in resource-limited regions with low SDI levels. Based on these findings, global governments and medical institutions may consider formulating optimal policies and strategies for the targeted prevention and management of mesothelioma., This cross-sectional study uses data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 to evaluate the temporal trends and epidemiological distribution of mesothelioma worldwide from 1990 to 2017.

Background: Colorectal cancer remains a public health problem worldwide. Dietary risk factors play a key role in the carcinogenesis and progression of colorectal cancer. This study aimed to explore the geographical and temporal trends in various dietary factor-related colorectal cancers.Methods: Data were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 study, including the deaths, disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs), age-standardized rate (ASR), and summary exposure value (SEV) among 4 world regions, 11 age groups, 21 regions, and 204 countries and territories between 1990 and 2019. The estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to evaluate the variation trend of ASR.Results: Dietary factors were the leading cause of colorectal cancer death and DALY rate, regardless of age. Dietary factor-related deaths and DALYs accounted for 32 and 34% of global colorectal cancer, respectively. Further analysis showed that low whole grain intake remained the leading cause of cancer death and DALY rate, followed by milk and calcium. Diets that were low in whole grains, milk, and calcium accounted for 81.61% of deaths and 81.64% of DALYs. Deaths and DALYs of dietary factors related to colorectal cancer grew by half from 1990 to 2019. All ASRs remained higher for men than women. Asia carried the highest colorectal cancer burden attributed to dietary risks, especially for East Asia [age-standardized death rate (ASDR): EAPC = 1.15, 95% CI:0.88–1.42; DALY: EAPC = 1.08, 95% CI:0.82–1.34]. The heavy burden also existed in high-middle and middle socio-demographic index (SDI) quintiles. China has always had the highest deaths and DALYs of colorectal cancer attributable to dietary risks, followed by the USA, India, and Japan.Conclusions: Large variations existed in the dietary risk-related colorectal cancer burdens among sexes, regions, and countries. More targeted interventions to address modifiable dietary risk factors would save 32% of deaths and 34% of DALYs for colorectal cancer.

BackgroundChronic kidney disease (CKD) is a public health problem largely caused by diabetes. The epidemiology of diabetes mellitus–related CKD (CKD-DM) could provide specific support to lessen global, regional, and national CKD burden.MethodsData were derived from the GBD 2019 study, including four measures and age-standardized rates (ASRs). Estimated annual percentage changes and 95% CIs were calculated to evaluate the variation trend of ASRs.ResultsDiabetes caused the majority of new cases and patients with CKD in all regions. All ASRs for type 2 diabetes–related CKD increased over 30 years. Asia and Middle socio-demographic index (SDI) quintile always carried the heaviest burden of CKD-DM. Diabetes type 2 became the second leading cause of CKD and CKD-related death and the third leading cause of CKD-related DALYs in 2019. Type 2 diabetes–related CKD accounted for most of the CKD-DM disease burden. There were 2.62 million incident cases, 134.58 million patients, 405.99 thousand deaths, and 13.09 million disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) of CKD-DM worldwide in 2019. Age-standardized incidence (ASIR) and prevalence rate (ASPR) of type 1 diabetes–related CKD increased, whereas age-standardized death rate (ASDR) and DALY rate decreased for females and increased for males. In high SDI quintile, ASIR and ASPR of type 1 diabetes–related CKD remained the highest, with the slowest increase, whereas the ASDR and age-standardized DALY rate remained the lowest there. In high SDI quintile, ASIR of type 2 diabetes–related CKD was the highest, with the lowest increasing rate. In addition, type 2 diabetes–related CKD occurred most in people aged 80-plus years worldwide. The main age of type 2 diabetes–related CKD patients was 55–64 years in Asia and Africa. The prevalence, mortality, and DALY rate of type 2 diabetes–related CKD increased with age. As for incidence, there was a peak at 80 years, and after age of 80, the incidence declined. CKD-DM-related anemia was mainly in mild to moderate grade.ConclusionsIncreasing burden of CKD-DM varied among regions and countries. Prevention and treatment measures should be strengthened according to CKD-DM epidemiology, especially in middle SDI quintile and Asia.

Background: The prevalence rate of hypertension and breast cancer increases with advancing age. Renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASIs), β-blockers (BBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), and diuretics are widely used to treat patients with hypertension. Although, the association between the use of antihypertensive medication and breast cancer has been highly debated, recent evidence supporting this association remains controversial.Objective: To evaluate the association between the use of antihypertensive medication and the risk of breast cancer and its prognosis.Methods: This study was conducted using data from the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases retrieved for the period from January 2000 to April 2021. Articles and their references were checked and summary effects were calculated using random- and fixed-effects models. Heterogeneity test and sensitivity analysis were also performed.Results: This meta-analysis included 57 articles, which were all related to breast cancer risk or prognosis. Assessment of breast cancer risk using the pooled data showed that the use of BBs or CCBs or diuretics was associated with increased cancer risk [BB: relative risk (RR) = 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.09–1.32; CCBs: RR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.03–1.08; diuretics: RR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.01–1.11]. Long-term use of diuretic increased the risk of breast cancer (RR = 1.10, 95% CI 1.01–1.20), whereas long-term RASIs treatment reduced the risk (RR = 0.78, 95% CI 0.68–0.91). In addition, we found that diuretic users may be related to elevated breast cancer-specific mortality [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.18, 95% CI 1.04–1.33], whereas using other antihypertensive medications was not associated with this prognosis in patients with breast cancer.Conclusion: Using CCBs, BBs, and diuretics increased the risk of breast cancer. In addition, diuretics may elevate the risk of breast cancer-specific mortality. The long-term use of RASIs was associated with a significantly lower breast cancer risk, compared with non-users. Thus, this analysis provides evidence to support the benefits of the routine use of RASIs in patients with hypertension, which has important public health implications.

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INTRODUCTION Auricular cartilage has been largely reported as an available substitute of defected tarsus to restore lower eyelid stability. However, undesirable results such as displacement, detachment, warping, down-gaze disturbance, and surface irregularity of the cartilage graft have been reported in previous reports, some of which require reoperations. In this study, the authors present a new technique to use strips of auricular cartilage with a local flap to restore the lower eyelid stability for a reliable eyelid support. METHODS From 2013 to 2018, the technique was carried out on 13 patients who suffered inadequate lower eyelid support with cicatricial retraction or ectropion and incomplete eyeball coverage, which was caused by soft tissue deletion secondary to different etiologies. Two kinds of local flaps were used to reconstruct the anterior soft tissue layer, whereas the posterior layer was supported with a π-shaped auricular cartilage. The preoperative and postoperative photographs were taken. Three indexes, including the vertical distance between inferior corneal margin and inferior palpebral margin, the maximal breadth of palpebral conjunctiva caused by ectropion, and the maximal palpebral fissure breadth when eyelid is closed, were measured before and 6 months after the operation to evaluate the operative effect. RESULTS The average follow-up was 32 months (range, 6-62 months). The local flap survived in all patients. No complications were seen in any of the patients. Postoperative average of the aforementioned first 2 indexes measured at 6 months was 0 mm, whereas the preoperative one was 2.69 and 1.08 mm, respectively. Postoperative average of the third index was also far more lower than the preoperative one (0.08 vs 2.77 mm). The difference between the preoperative and postoperative evaluation of the 3 indexes was statistically significant (paired t test, P < 0.001). No further intervention was required. CONCLUSIONS The present technique using a combination of π-shaped auricular cartilage and a local flap provides a satisfying horizontal and vertical support to maintain the lower eyelid in a normal position without compromising the mobility of the lower eyelid. This technique can be used as an effective and safe method for lower eyelid support.

Plough pan can affect crop growth, nutrient uptake and the fates of substances in the environment. To determine the effects of plough pan thickness on crop and environment, a field survey and a field experiment were conducted on a typical calcareous fluvo-aquic soil in a winter wheat-summer maize rotation system in Northern China Plain from 2014 to 2016. Specifically, the thickness of plough pans was surveyed in 108 field plots in 2014, and then based on the survey results a field experiment was established to study the effects of different plough pan thicknesses (PP15: 15 cm of plough pan; PP10: 10 cm of plough pan; PP5: 5 cm of plough pan; PP0: 0 cm of plough pan) on crop growth, nitrogen (N) utilization and the environment. The survey showed that the thickness of topsoil averaged at 14.7 cm, and the plough pan was approximately 15 cm deep. The plough pan was found at 76% of the survey locations, and it was distributed commonly from 15 to 30 cm beneath the soil surface. Breaking the original plough pan partially or completely could promote the net photosynthesis rate, leaf water use efficiency, crop yield, and N use efficiency, decrease N2O emission, but increase CO2 emission. Among all treatments, breaking plough pans completely (PP0) and by 2/3 (PP5) resulted in best crop performance, whose photosynthetic parameters (especially net photosynthetic rate and leaf water use efficiency) were significantly higher than PP10 and PP15. For both wheat and maize, PP5 resulted in greater yield (7 130 kg ha−1 for wheat and 8 240 kg ha−1 for maize) than other treatments. Although it did not differ with PP0 significantly, PP5 had significantly higher N uptake (410 kg ha−1) and N use efficiency (40.1%) than PP10 and PP15. The magnitude of N2O emission peak decreased with an increasing degree of plough pan breakage. The cumulative N2O emission and intensity in PP5 was obviously lower than that in PP10 and PP15. Annual cumulative CO2 emission did not differ significantly among PP5, PP10 and PP15. Net ecosystem productivity (NEP) of the rotation system increased as the thickness of plough pan decreased, so PP5 had relative higher NEP (9 740 kg C ha−1) than PP10 and PP15. Thus, considering better crop growth, higher yield, optimized N utilization, lower N2O and CO2 emissions, as well as higher NEP and less mechanical costs, breaking the original plough pan partially is a good choice to ameliorating the plough pan restrictions in the Northern China Plain.

Background: Currently, there is still some controversy regarding whether early breast cancer patients with a tumor size of ≤5 cm and 1-3 positive lymph nodes should undergo postoperative radiotherapy (PRT). Materials and Methods: We obtained data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 18 database. Then, we conducted propensity score matching (PSM), according to the radiotherapy record. The Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis were conducted to explore prognostic factors in breast cancer. Results: A total of 6,777 patients aged 75+ years old were eligible and 2,361 patients were included after PSM. We found PRT could improve patient overall survival (OS) (P = 0.01, hazard ratio [HR] = 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.80-0.97). Subgroup analysis revealed PRT could improve OS in patients with hormone receptor positive (HR+) (P = 0.001, HR = 0.84, 95% CI, 0.76 - 0.94) or white patients (P =0.004, HR = 0.86, 95% CI, 0.77 - 0.95). Conclusions: PRT may benefit for elderly women with early breast cancer, especially in HR+ patients or white patients. These findings may inform future optimized options whether elderly female patients with early breast cancer should undergo postoperative radiotherapy.

Background Ovarian cancer (OV) is deemed the most lethal gynecological cancer in women. The aim of this study was to construct an effective gene prognostic model for predicting overall survival (OS) in patients with OV. Methods The expression profiles of glycolysis‐related genes (GRGs) and clinical data of patients with OV were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Univariate, multivariate, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression analyses were conducted, and a prognostic signature based on GRGs was constructed. The predictive ability of the signature was analyzed using training and test sets. Results A gene risk signature based on nine GRGs (ISG20, CITED2, PYGB, IRS2, ANGPTL4, TGFBI, LHX9, PC, and DDIT4) was identified to predict the survival outcome of patients with OV. The signature showed a good prognostic ability for OV, particularly high‐grade OV, in the TCGA dataset, with areas under the curve (AUC) of 0.709 and 0.762 for 3‐ and 5‐year survival, respectively. Similar results were found in the test sets, and the AUCs of 3‐, 5‐year OS were 0.714 and 0.772 in the combined test set. And our signature was an independent prognostic factor. Moreover, a nomogram combining the prediction model and clinical factors was developed. Conclusion Our study established a nine‐GRG risk model and nomogram to better predict OS in patients with OV. The risk model represents a promising and independent prognostic predictor for patients with OV. Moreover, our study on GRGs could offer guidance for the elucidation of underlying mechanisms in future studies., Novel 9‐gene risk signature based on glycolysis‐related genes was developed to predict ovarian cancer survival. A nomogram combining the gene signature and patient characteristics provided superior estimation of overall survival. Our research provided a new prognostic tool and guidelines for future research.

Key Points Question Should patients with T1 N0 M0 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) receive routine adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy after surgery? Findings In this cohort study of 7739 postoperative patients diagnosed as having T1 N0 M0 TNBC from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry program, receipt of adjuvant therapies was associated with an overall survival benefit. Adjuvant radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery was associated with better overall and breast cancer–specific survival in patients aged 70 years and older but not in those younger than 70 years. Meaning Administration of adjuvant therapies to patients with different ages and cancer stages should be discussed carefully, which necessitates guidance from updated guidelines., This cohort study evaluates the association of different adjuvant therapies with survival outcomes in patients with triple-negative breast cancer., Importance Adjuvant chemotherapy remains the only recommended treatment for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, the existing evidence is not enough to recommend adjuvant therapies to patients with T1 N0 M0 TNBC. Objective To evaluate the association of different adjuvant therapies with survival outcome in patients with T1 N0 M0 TNBC stratified by cancer stage and age. Design, Setting, and Participants Postoperative patients diagnosed as having T1 N0 M0 TNBC between 2010 and 2015 who were enrolled in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results cancer registry program were included in this population-based cohort study. Data analysis was performed from March 27, 2019, to August 10, 2020. Exposures Chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Main Outcomes and Measures Kaplan-Meier curve and univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to compare overall survival (OS) and breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) between the different treatments. Results A cohort of 7739 eligible patients (mean [SD] age, 59.5 [12.4] years; all female) were included in the present study. The 5-year OS of the total patients was 91.7% (95% CI, 90.9%-92.5%), and median follow-up was 45 months (95% CI, 44-46 months). Patients aged 70 years and older or with T1a TNBC were more likely to receive adjuvant radiotherapy than chemotherapy. Although any adjuvant therapy could improve OS in T1 N0 M0 TNBC, only chemotherapy was associated with significantly better breast cancer–specific survival (BCSS adjusted hazard ratio: 0.657; 95% CI, 0.460-0.939; P = .02). Adjuvant radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery was associated with better OS and BCSS in patients aged 70 years and older but not in those younger than 70 years. For patients with T1c BC, chemotherapy after breast-conserving surgery or other surgery was associated with improved OS, whereas only chemotherapy after other surgery was associated with better BCSS. Conclusions and Relevance The findings of this cohort study suggest that adjuvant therapies could improve OS in patients with T1 N0 M0 TNBC, whereas only chemotherapy was associated with better BCSS. Older patients with early-stage TNBC may benefit from adjuvant radiotherapy. Administration of adjuvant therapies to patients with different ages and cancer stages should be discussed carefully, which necessitates guidance from updated guidelines.

Key Points Question Can a better prognosis model based on DNA repair–related genes be developed for the comprehensive evaluation of breast cancer? Findings In this prognostic study based on samples from 1096 women, a novel signature for breast cancer constructed using 8 DNA repair–related genes showed satisfactory performance for predicting survival in the training cohort from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the validation cohort from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The DNA repair–related gene signature was an independent predictor of survival after adjustment for clinical characteristics. Meaning A prognostic signature based on 8 DNA repair–related genes predicted overall survival among female patients with breast cancer, thereby providing a new modality for the accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment of breast cancer., Importance Breast cancer (BC), a common malignant tumor, ranks first among cancers in terms of morbidity and mortality among female patients. Currently, identifying effective prognostic models has a significant association with the prediction of the overall survival of patients with BC and guidance of clinicians in early diagnosis and treatment. Objectives To identify a potential DNA repair–related prognostic signature through a comprehensive evaluation and to further improve the accuracy of prediction of the overall survival of patients with BC. Design, Setting, and Participants In this prognostic study, conducted from October 9, 2019, to February 3, 2020, the gene expression profiles and clinical data of patients with BC were collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. This study consisted of a training set from The Cancer Genome Atlas database and 2 validation cohorts from the Gene Expression Omnibus, which included 1096 patients with BC. A prognostic signature based on 8 DNA repair–related genes (DRGs) was developed to predict overall survival among female patients with BC. Main Outcomes and Measures Primary screening prognostic biomarkers were analyzed using univariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox proportional hazards regression. A risk model was completely established through multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. Finally, a prognostic nomogram, combining the DRG signature and clinical characteristics of patients, was constructed. To examine the potential mechanisms of the DRGs, Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were performed. Results In this prognostic study based on samples from 1096 women with BC (mean [SD] age, 59.6 [13.1] years), 8 DRGs (MDC1, RPA3, MED17, DDB2, SFPQ, XRCC4, CYP19A1, and PARP3) were identified as prognostic biomarkers. The time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis suggested that the 8-gene signature had a good predictive accuracy. In the training cohort, the areas under the curve were 0.708 for 3-year survival and 0.704 for 5-year survival. In the validation cohort, the areas under the curve were 0.717 for 3-year survival and 0.772 for 5-year survival in the GSE9893 data set and 0.691 for 3-year survival and 0.718 for 5-year survival in the GSE42568 data set. This DRG signature mainly involved some regulation pathways of vascular endothelial cell proliferation. Conclusions and Relevance In this study, a prognostic signature using 8 DRGs was developed that successfully predicted overall survival among female patients with BC. This risk model provides new clinical evidence for the diagnostic accuracy and targeted treatment of BC., This prognostic study evaluates a potential DNA repair–related prognostic signature to improve the accuracy of prediction of the overall survival of patients with breast cancer.

Background The epidemiology of esophageal cancer (EC) can elucidate its causes and risk factors and help develop prevention strategies. We aimed to provide an overview of the burden, trends, and risk factors of EC in China from 1990 to 2017. We also investigated the differences between China, Japan, and South Korea and discussed the possible causes of the disparities. Methods We used the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 to obtain data on incident cases, deaths, disability-adjusted life-year (DALY) cases, age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized death rate (ASDR), and age-standardized DALY rate of EC in China, Japan, and South Korea from 1990 to 2017. Trend analysis was performed using joinpoint analysis. We measured the associations between ASIR, ASDR, and age-standardized DALY rate and the socio-demographic index (SDI) for 1990–2017. We also analyzed the risk factors associated with EC deaths and DALYs. Results China recorded 234,624 (95% uncertainty intervals: 223,240–246,036) incident cases of and 212,586 (202,673–222,654) deaths from EC in 2017. The ASIR and ASDR declined from 1990 to 2017. Until 2017, the ASIR was 12.23, and ASDR was 11.25 per 100,000 persons. The DALYs were 4,464,980 (4,247,816–4,690,846) with an age-standardized rate of 222.58 per 100,000 persons in 2017. The ASIR, ASDR, and age-standardized DALY rate in China were twice those of Japan and South Korea. These three indicators showed a decreasing trend, whereas SDI increased, in all three countries from 1990 to 2017. Tobacco and alcohol use remained the major risk factors for EC death and DALYs, especially for men in China and women in Japan and South Korea. High body mass index (BMI) and low-fruit diet were the main risk factors for women in China. Conclusions The incident cases and deaths of EC in China, Japan, and South Korea increased from 1990 to 2017, whereas the ASIR, ASDR, and age-standardized DALY rate declined. China had the greatest burden of EC among three countries. SDI and aging along with tobacco use, alcohol use, high BMI, and low-fruit diet were the main risk factors of death and DALYs and should be paid more attention.

Key Points Question What were the epidemiologic patterns and variation in the trends of thyroid cancer worldwide from 1990 to 2017? Findings In this cross-sectional study covering data on incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life-years and their temporal trends from 195 countries and 21 regions, increasing trends of thyroid cancer burden were observed, with significant differences by sex, region, country, age, and sociodemographic index. Almost half of the thyroid cancer burden was noted in Southern and Eastern Asia, and a third of patients with thyroid cancer resided in countries with a high sociodemographic index. Meaning This study suggests an increasing global burden of thyroid cancer; the geographic disparities may provide support for cancer health care planning and resource allocation., Importance Thyroid cancer is the most pervasive endocrine cancer worldwide. Studies examining the association between thyroid cancer and country, sex, age, sociodemographic index (SDI), and other factors are lacking. Objective To examine the thyroid cancer burden and variation trends at the global, regional, and national levels using data on sex, age, and SDI. Design, Setting, and Participants In this cross-sectional study, epidemiologic data were gathered using the Global Health Data Exchange query tool, covering persons of all ages with thyroid cancer in 195 countries and 21 regions from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2017; data analysis was completed on October 1, 2019. All participants met the Global Burden of Disease Study inclusion criteria. Main Outcomes and Measures Outcomes included incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) of thyroid cancer. Measures were stratified by sex, region, country, age, and SDI. The estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) and age-standardized rates were calculated to evaluate the temporal trends. Results Increases of thyroid cancer were noted in incident cases (169%), deaths (87%), and DALYs (75%). Age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) showed an upward trend over time, with an EAPC of 1.59 (95% CI, 1.51-1.67); decreases were noted in EAPCs of age-standardized death rate (−0.15; 95% CI, −0.19 to −0.12) and age-standardized DALY rate (−0.11; 95% CI, −0.15 to −0.08). Almost half (41.73% for incidence, 50.92% for deaths, and 54.39% for DALYs) of the thyroid cancer burden was noted in Southern and Eastern Asia. In addition, females accounted for most of the thyroid cancer burden (70.22% for incidence, 58.39% for deaths, and 58.68% for DALYs) and increased by years in this population, although the ASIR of males with thyroid cancer (EAPC, 2.18; 95% CI, 2.07-2.28) increased faster than that of females (EAPC, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.30-1.46). A third (34%) of patients with thyroid cancer resided in countries with a high SDI, and most patients were aged 50 to 69 years, which was older than the age in other quintiles (high SDI quintile compared with all other quintiles, P, This cross-sectional study examines the worldwide temporal trends of thyroid cancer according to geographic location, sex, age, and socioeconomic index.

Epidemiological studies showing the correlation between folate and the breast cancer risk have revealed inconsistent results. Hence, we conducted a dose-response meta-analysis of observational studies to obtain more reliable conclusions. We searched PubMed and Embase for studies published before April 2019 and identified 39 studies on folate intake and 12 studies on plasma folate level. The combined odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted to estimate the breast cancer risk. Folate intake was inversely correlated with the breast cancer risk when the highest and lowest categories (OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.79-0.92) were compared, and the dose-response result showed that folate intake had a linear correlation with the breast cancer risk. Moreover, a higher folate intake correlated with a lower breast cancer risk in premenopausal women (OR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.66-0.97), but not in postmenopausal women (OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.83-1.06). However, plasma folate levels were not correlated with the breast cancer risk (OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.82-1.17). Folate intake was negatively correlated with the breast cancer risk; however, its practical clinical significance requires further study. Furthermore, additional folate supplements should be considered carefully.

Agenesis of the dorsal pancreas is a rare congenital pancreatic malformation. We herein describe a 67-year-old woman with a 5-day history of lower back pain who was eventually diagnosed with agenesis of the dorsal pancreas. Abdominal computed tomography showed an enlarged pancreatic head, but the pancreatic body and tail were invisible. The magnetic resonance imaging findings were similar to the computed tomography findings. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography showed that the major pancreatic duct was mildly dilated but otherwise normal. Endoscopic ultrasound revealed absence of the pancreatic body and tail, an enlarged head of the pancreas, and mild pancreatic duct dilation. The final diagnosis was dorsal pancreatic agenesis.

Background LncRNA MEG3 expressed abnormally in various cancers including breast cancer, but no studies reported the correlation between MEG3 SNPs and breast cancer susceptibility among Chinese women. Methods This study is aimed to explore the association between three SNPs of MEG3 (rs3087918, rs7158663, rs11160608) and breast cancer. The study is a population-based case-control study including 434 breast cancer patients and 700 healthy controls. Genotyping was performed using Sequenom MassArray technique. Function prediction of rs3087918 were based on RNAfold and lncRNASNP2 databases. Results Pooled analysis indicated that rs3087918 was related to a decreased risk of breast cancer [GG vs. TT: OR (95%) = 0.67(0.45–0.99), P = 0.042; GG vs. TT + TG: OR (95%) = 0.69(0.48–0.99), P = 0.046], especially for women aged P = 0.02]. Comparison between case groups showed genotype GG and TG/GG of rs3087918 were associated with her-2 receptor expression [GG vs. TT: OR (95%) = 2.37(1.24–4.63), P = 0.010; TG + GG vs. TT: OR (95%) = 1.50(1.01–2.24), P = 0.045]. We didn’t find statistical significance for rs11160608, rs7158663 and breast cancer. Structure prediction based on RNAfold found rs3087918 may influence the secondary structure of MEG3. The results based on lncRNASNP2 indicated that rs3087918 may gain the targets of hsa-miR-1203 to MEG3, while loss the target of hsa-miR-139-3p and hsa-miR-5091 to MEG3. Conclusions MEG3 rs3087918 was associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer. MEG3 haplotype TCG may increase the risk of breast cancer.

Studies have suggested that thymidylate (TYMS) polymorphisms are associated with breast cancer. However, inconsistent results were obtained and data from Asian populations are largely lacking. In this study, the relationships between two common TYMS polymorphisms (rs2790 and rs1059394) and the breast cancer risk were evaluated. We also studied the TYMS expression between tumor and para-carcinoma tissues, and the association between TYMS levels and prognosis of breast cancer. This hospital-based study included 434 patients and 450 cancer-free individuals. Genotying was performed using Sequenom Mass-ARRAY. The microarray dataset GSE115144 was downloaded to compare the differences in TYMS expression between tumor and para-carcinoma tissues. The microarray dataset GSE20685 was used to analysis the metastasis free survival (MFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients. The rs2790 polymorphism was related to a higher risk of breast cancer (recessive model: OR=1.50, 95%CI=1.02-2.21, P=0.038) and the C allele of rs1059394 was overrepresented in patients with tumor stage III-IV (heterozygote model: OR=0.60, 95%CI=0.39-0.94, P=0.025; dominant model: OR=0.59, 95%CI=0.39-0.89, P=0.013). The tumor tissues had a higher TYMS expression levels and patients with higher TYMS expression levels had worse OS. Overall, TYMS polymorphism may increase susceptibility to breast cancer in Chinese Han women and TYMS expression levels may be a predictive factor for breast cancer patients.

Previous studies have indicated a correlation between nut intake and cancer risk in humans. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the relationship between nut consumption and the risks of cancer incidence and mortality. The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched up to August 2019. Relative risks and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using random-effects and fixed-effects models. We included 38 studies on nut consumption and cancer risk and 9 studies on cancer-specific mortality. Compared with no nut intake, nut intake was associated with a lower cancer risk (Relative Risk=0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.86-0.94). Inverse associations were observed with colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer, and lung cancer in subgroup analyses. Tree nut consumption was found to reduce cancer risk (Relative Risk=0.88; 95% confidence interval, 0.79-0.99). Dose-response curves suggested that protective benefits against cancer increased with increased nut intake (P=0.005, P-nonlinearity=0.0414). An inverse correlation with cancer-specific mortality (Odd Ratio=0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.88-0.92) was observed. In conclusion, nut consumption is inversely associated with the risks of cancer incidence and mortality; a higher intake is significantly associated with a lower cancer risk.

Cervical cancer (CC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in women. Limited studies have investigated whether immune-related genes (IRGs) or tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) could be indicators for CC prognoses. The aim of this study was to develop an improved prognostic signature for CC based on IRGs or TIME to predict survival and response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). A prognostic signature was constructed using bioinformatics method and its predictive capability was validated. The mechanisms underlying the signature's predictive capability were explored with CIBERSORT algorithm and mutation analysis. Immunophenoscore (IPS) is validated for ICIs response, and was therefore explored in relation to the signature. A prognostic signature based on 11 IRGs was developed. A multivariate analysis revealed that the 11-IRG signature was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) and progression-free interval in CC patients. In the 11-IRG signature high-risk group, CD8 T cells and resting mast cells, which are found to associate with better OS in our study, were lower; activated mast cells, associated with poorer OS, were higher, compared with the low-risk group. An IPS analysis suggested that the 11-IRG signature low-risk group, which possessed a higher IPS, represented a more immunogenic phenotype that was more inclined to respond to ICIs. In short, an 11-IRG prognostic signature for predicting CC patients' survival and response to ICIs was firmly established. The predictive capability of this model in CC requires further testing with the goal of better prognostic stratification and treatment management.

Several studies have indicated that the use of antihypertensive medications may influence the incidence of bladder/kidney cancer, with some scholars refuting any such association. Hence, a systematic review is needed to verify this linkage. we comprehensively searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for original studies reporting a relationship between antihypertensive medications and risk of bladder/kidney cancer. We included 31 articles comprising 3,352,264 participants. We found a significant association between the risk of kidney cancer and any antihypertensive medications use (relative risk (RR) = 1.45, 95% CI 1.20-1.75), as well as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (RR = 1.24, 95% CI 1.04-1.48), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB) (RR = 1.29, 95% CI:1.22-1.37), beta-blockers (RR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.11-1.66), calcium-channel blockers (RR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.54-1.78) and diuretics (RR = 1.34, 95% CI 1.19-1.51). In case of bladder cancer, a statistical significance was observed with the use of ARB (RR = 1.07, 95% CI 1.03-1.11) but not with the other antihypertensive medications. There was a linear association between the duration of antihypertensive medications and the risk of kidney cancer (P = 0.061 for a non-linear trend) and the pooled RR for the per year increase in antihypertensive medications duration of use was 1.02 (95% CI: 1.01-1.02). Our results indicate that there is a significant association between each class of antihypertensive medications and the risk of kidney cancer, and this trend presented as a positive linear association. Furthermore, the use of ARB has been linked to the risk of bladder cancer.

Purpose: Single nucleotide variations in the liver fatty acid binding protein (L-FABP, FABP1) gene lead to changes in cellular signaling pathways and lipid metabolism. FABP1 polymorphisms were associated with some liver diseases, like steatotic hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the association between FABP1 rs1545224 and rs2241883 polymorphisms and hepatitis B virus-related liver cirrhosis (LC) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been reported. We performed this study to explore their relationship. Methods: One thousand individuals (250 healthy controls, 250 chronic HBV (CHB), 250 LC, and 250 HCC patients) were recruited. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were applied to assess the difference in allele and genotype frequencies. Cochran-Armitage trend test was used to evaluate the cumulative effect. Significant difference would be defined when the P value was less than 0.05. Results: The distribution of rs1545224 GG, AG and AA genotypes in healthy controls or CHB carriers was not significant when compared to LC or HCC patients (P>0.05). LC patients carrying at least one A allele are more likely to develop HCC in contrast with those with G allele (P0.05). Conclusions: Taken together, FABP1 rs1545224 polymorphism might increase HCC risk in LC patients, indicating that FABP1 rs1545224 polymorphism may be related to the process of developing HCC in Chinese patients with LC.

Cranioplasty is generally defined as the procedure to reconstruct cranial bone defect arising from congenital or acquired process. As a surgical remedy, it can restore the function of original anatomical structure and produce a satisfactory cosmetic outcome. Although with available options for treating pediatric cranioplasty, large format (ie,25 cm) cranioplasty of the aborted one with a composite defect is still a challenging procedure for plastic surgeons. The authors herein present a case of child who suffered failed cranioplasty with polyetheretherketone caused by postoperative infection, leading to skin ulcer and exposure of the polyetheretherketone. The treatments of the patient are performed sequentially. After thorough debridement of the wound, vacuum-assisted wound closure and autologous split-thickness skins are successively used to cover the defect following finally adopted strategy of tissue expansion of the scalp with a 3-dimensional-printed epoxide acrylate maleic composite material to repair the large-sized cranial defect.

Background The patterns of the incidence and mortality of prostate cancer (PC) have been changing over the years. In addition, the unclear etiology of PC necessitates further studies into the geographic distribution and age composition of patients with PC. This study was aimed at examining the patterns of the epidemiology of PC to help policymakers to allocate the limited resources of the health care system accordingly. Methods Annual case data and age-standardized rates (ASRs) were obtained for the incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) of PC according to age from 1990 to 2017 and for 21 regions, including 195 countries and territories. The estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) of ASRs were calculated to evaluate the incidence and mortality trends of PC. Results Worldwide, the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of PC increased from 30.5 cases per 100,000 population in 1990 to 37.9 cases per 100,000 population in 2017 with an EAPC of 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49-0.7), whereas the mortality decreased with an EAPC of -0.73 (95% CI, -0.80 to -0.67). The ASIR was positively associated with the sociodemographic index (SDI) in most regions, and the increase in the ASIR was steeper with a higher SDI. The proportion of patients younger than 65 years increased from 23.6% in 1990 to 27.3% in 2017. Conclusions The incidence of PC has been increasing globally, whereas its mortality and DALYs have been decreasing. These trends are particularly significant in developed regions and vary across geographic regions. Adjustments to the medical strategy by governments and medical institutions are required.

Fat acquisition, processing, and grafting techniques are considered to be the main factors affecting the volume retention rate of fat grafting. Shuffling fat (SF) is obtained by refining macrofat (MF), both of which have been applied in autologous fat grafting. However, few studies have focused on comparison effects of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) on MF and SF grafting. Grafts were prepared by mixing MF and SF with PRF or normal saline at a ratio of 5:1, and grafted into symmetric recipient sites of a mouse's buttock. Grafts were harvested and analyzed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Groups containing PRF showed high volume retention rates and microcosmic evaluation scores at each time point compared with the control groups. Although without improved volume retention rate, group of SF containing PRF showed superior microcosmic evaluations compared with group of MF containing PRF. The results demonstrated that both the efficacy of MF and SF grafting can be enhanced by PRF, with even better quality of grafts for the SF grafting.

BackgroundHodgkin lymphoma (HL) is an uncommon B cell lymphoma. We assessed the global, regional, and national burden of HL from 1990 to 2017, by gender, age, and social-demographic index (SDI).MethodsData on HL, including incidence, mortality, and disability adjusted life-years (DALY), from 1990 to 2017 were obtained from the 2017 Global Burden of Disease study. Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to assess incidence rate, mortality, and DALY trends.ResultsHL incidences increased by 38.66%, from 72,937 in 1990 to 101,133 in 2017, while the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) was relatively stable. ASIR decreased in the low SDI regions (EAPC = − 2.58; 95% CI, from − 2.66 to − 2.49) and was stable in the other four SDI regions. Incidence showed a bimodal distribution with peak values in patients aged 20–39 years and patients aged 60 years or higher. The number of death cases and DALYs were stable. The age-standardized death rate decreased by 2.36% (95% CI, from − 2.43% to − 2.30%) per year. The annual age-standardized DALY rate decreased by 2.29% (95% CI, from − 2.36% to − 2.21%). The incidence and mortality in male subjects was higher than that in female subjects. The incidence in male and female subjects aged 15–30 years old was close, whereas the biggest difference existed in patients aged ConclusionGlobally, incidence of HL was stable, while mortality and DALY rate of HL had been decreasing from 1990 to 2017. Compared with lower and decreasing ASIR in the low SDI region, ASIR in the high SDI region was always high, indicating the need for HL treatment improvement and the establishment of more targeted and specific strategies in high SDI countries to reduce the incidence of HL.

DNA polymerase kappa (POLK), one of the specialized Y family DNA polymerases, functions in translesion synthesis and is suggested to be related with cancers. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in specialized DNA polymerases have been demonstrated to be associated with cancer risk. To evaluate the association of two common POLK variants (rs3213801 C>T and rs5744533 C>T) with glioma, we conducted a case‐control study and genotyped these two POLK variants in 605 patients and 1300 healthy controls. The association analysis revealed no significant correlations were observed between these two POLK SNPs and glioma risk. However, the POLK rs3213801 CT genotype was found to be higher in older glioma patients (≥40) than in younger patients (P = .026). Compared with patients harboring the CC genotype, the frequencies of POLK rs5744533 CT and CT+TT genotypes were increased in patients with lower World Health Organization (WHO) grade glioma (P = .028, 0.044, respectively). According to Kaplan‐Meier analysis and log‐rank tests, POLK SNPs were not correlated with either the overall survival or progression‐free survival. Nevertheless, multivariate analysis revealed that the age (≥40) could increase the risk of death in glioma patients (P, In this study, we found DNA polymerase kappa variants rs3213801 and rs5744533 are not associated with glioma risk and prognosis, but they are likely to be associated with certain glioma characteristics, such as age and World Health Organization grade. Meanwhile, the age, surgery types, and chemotherapy could be independent prognostic factors in glioma.

Introduction Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are proposed to control graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). However, the definition of human MDSCs has not yet reached consensus, and the mechanism of MDSCs to control GVHD remains unclear. Methods Immature myeloid cells (HLA-DR−/lowCD33+CD16−) were tested before and after granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) administration in healthy donor and isolated for suppression assays and co-culture with T cells in vitro. Isolated cells were infused in humanized mice for a xenogeneic model of acute GVHD. One hundred allo-HSCT recipients were enrolled prospectively to assess the role of HLA-DR−/lowCD33+CD16− cells in grafts on the occurrence of acute GVHD. Results In the present study, G-CSF mobilized HLA-DR−/lowCD33+CD16− cells with immunosuppressive properties in donor peripheral blood. These cells contained more interleukin-10+ and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)+ cells after G-CSF administration and inhibited the proliferation of autologous donor T cells in a TGF-β-dependent manner. Meanwhile, these immature myeloid cells promoted regulatory T cell expansion and induced Th2 differentiation. Importantly, these cells prevented acute GVHD in a humanized mouse model. Moreover, clinical cohort results showed that the number of HLA-DR−/lowCD33+CD16− cells in the donor graft was the only independent risk factor inversely correlated with the incidence of grade II–IV acute GVHD in the recipients (HR 0.388, 95% CI 0.158–0.954, p = 0.039). Conclusion HLA-DR−/lowCD33+CD16− cells represent functional MDSCs that may control acute GVHD in allo-HSCT. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13045-019-0710-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background It is well known that hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has been one of the most life-threatening diseases all over the world. Plenty of internal and extrinsic factors have been proven to be related to HCC, such as gene mutation, viral hepatitis, and Nitrosamines. Though previous studies demonstrated that glutathione S-transferase (GST) genotypes are associated with HCC, the conclusions are inconsistent. Therefore, we carried on a renewed meta-analysis to expound the connection between the null GSTM1, GSTT1 polymorphisms and the risk of HCC. Methods We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and CNKI databases to select qualified researches which satisfied the inclusion criteria up to July 31, 2018. Finally, we selected 41 articles with 6124 cases and 9781 controls in this meta-analysis. We use ORs and 95% confidence interval (CI) to evaluate the correlation intension between the GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genes and the risk of HCC. All the statistical processes were executed by Stata (version 12.0). Results The pooled analysis showed that both GSTM1 null genotypes (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.18–1.59) and GSTT1 null genotypes (OR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.23–1.66) increased the risk of HCC. And GSTM1–GSTT1 dual-null genotypes also increased the risk of HCC (OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.22–2.05). In the subgroup analysis, we obtained significant results among Asians when stratified by race, and the results are GSTM1 null OR = 1.44, 95% CI = (1.22–1.71), GSTT1 null OR = 1.48, 95% CI = (1.25–1.77), GSTM1–GSTT1 null OR = 1.58, 95% CI = (1.19–2.09), while we didn’t obtain significant results among Caucasians or Africans. Stratified analyses on the type of control indicated a higher risk of HCC associated with GSTM1, GSTT1 single null genotypes and GSTM1–GSTT1 dual-null genotypes in healthy people. No evidence of significant connection was discovered in chronic liver disease (CLD) except in GSTT1 single null. Conclusions Our study indicated that an individual who carries the GSTM1, GSTT1 single null genotypes and GSTT1–GSTM1 dual-null genotypes is more likely to develop HCC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-019-0792-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background: Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is an occupational carcinogen that can cause lung and nasal cancers, but its association with mortality and incidence in many other cancers is unclear. Objectives: In this meta-analysis, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between exposure to Cr(VI) and the mortality and incidence of human cancers. Methods: We performed a search of the literature and extracted the standardized mortality ratios (SMRs), standardized incidence ratios (SIRs), and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), to estimate risk values. Subgroup analyses were conducted by sex, occupation, and types of cancer to identify groups that were at high-risk or predisposed to certain cancers. Results: A total of 47 cohort studies covering the period 1985–2016 were included (37 studies reporting SMRs and 16 studies reporting SIRs). The summary SMR for all studies combined was 1.07 (95% CI: 1.01–1.15). Summary SMRs were higher among chromate production workers, chrome platers, and masons, and especially male workers. In the subgroup analysis, Cr(VI) exposure was related to a higher risk of death owing to lung, larynx, bladder, kidney, testicular, bone, and thyroid cancer. The meta-SIR of all studies combined was 1.06 (95% CI: 1.04–1.09). Summary SIRs were elevated among cement industry workers and tanners. Cr(VI) exposure was related to an elevated risk of respiratory system, buccal cavity, pharynx, prostate, and stomach cancers. Conclusions: Cr(VI) might cause cancers of the respiratory system, buccal cavity and pharynx, prostate, and stomach in humans, and it is related to increased risk of overall mortality owing to lung, larynx, bladder, kidney, testicular, bone, and thyroid cancer. In addition, there was a strong association between incidence and mortality risk of cancers and concentration of Cr(VI) in the air and the exposure time.

Objective: Statistical data on the incidence, mortality, and burden of breast cancer and the relevant risk factors are valuable for policy-making. We aimed to estimate breast cancer incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) by country, gender, age group, and socio-demographic status between 1990 and 2017. Methods: We extracted breast cancer data from the 2017 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study from 1990 through 2017 in 195 countries and territories. Data about the number of breast cancer incident cases, deaths, DALYs, and the age-standardized rates were collected and estimated annual percentage changes of age standardized incidence rate (ASIR) were calculated. We also estimated the risk factors attributable to breast cancer deaths and DALYs using the comparative risk assessment framework of the GBD study. Results: In 2017, the global incidence of breast cancer increased to 1,960,681 cases (95% UI = 1,891,447-2,023,170) with an ASIR of 24.19/100,000 persons (95% UI = 23.34-24.86). The high social-development index (SDI) quintile included the highest number of breast cancer deaths cases (181,004, 95% UI=176,078-186,127). Between 2007 and 2017, the ASDR of breast cancer declined globally, especially in high SDI and high middle SDI countries. Global breast cancer-related DALYs were 17,708,600 (95% UI = 16,899,498-18,674,972) in 2017 with high middle SDI quintile as the highest contributor. Of breast cancer deaths and DALYs, alcohol use was the greatest constributor in most GBD regions and other constributors included high body mass index (BMI) and high fasting plasma glucose. Conclusion: The increasing global breast cancer burden is mainly observed in lower SDI countries; in higher SDI countries, the breast cancer burden tends to be relieving. Therefore, steps against attributable risk factors should be taken to reduce breast cancer burden in lower SDI countries. Funding Statement: This study was supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81471670); the International Cooperative Project of Shaanxi province, China (No. 2016KW-008) and the Key research and development plan, Shaanxi Province, China (2017ZDXM-SF-066). Declaration of Interests: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest. Ethics Approval Statement: Not Required.

Background: Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is an uncommon B-cell lymphoma. We assessed the global, regional, and national burden of HL from 1990 to 2017, by gender, age, and social demographic index (SDI). Methods: Data on HL, including morbidity, mortality, and disability adjusted life-years (DALY), from 1990 to 2017, was obtained from the 2017 Global Burden of Disease study. Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to assess morbidity, mortality, and DALY trends. Results: HL incidences increased by 38.66%, from 72937 in 1990 to 101133 in 2017, while the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) decreased by 0·51% (95% CI, -0·57% - -0·45%) yearly. ASIR in high SDI (EAPC=0·19, 95% CI, 0·02 - -0·36) and high-middle SDI (EAPC = 0·84, 95% CI, 0·6 - 1·08) regions increased. Morbidity showed a bimodal distribution with peak values in patients aged 20-39 years and patients aged 60 years or higher. Number of deaths decreased by 9.42%, from 35,946 in 1990 to 32,560 in 2017. The age-standardized death rate decreased by 2·36% (95% CI, -2·43%--2·30%) per year. Interpretation: Globally, incidence, mortality, and DALY rate of HL have been decreasing. Nevertheless, morbidity in the high SDI and the high-middle SDI regions was higher and has been increasing, indicating the need for the establishment of more targeted and specific strategies in high SDI countries to prevent the increase of HL incidence. Funding: National Natural Science Foundation, People's Republic of China (No. 81471670). Declaration of Interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. Ethical Approval: This study was approved by The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University. The data released from the Global Health Data Exchange query did not require informed patient consent.

Cong Dai,1,2,* Yi Zheng,2,* Yuanjie Li,3 Tian Tian,2 Meng Wang,2 Peng Xu,2 Yujiao Deng,2 Qian Hao,2 Ying Wu,2 Zhen Zhai,2 Zhijun Dai,2 JunLyu1 1Clinical Research Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710061, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710004, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061, People’s Republic of China *These authors contributed equally to this work Background: To evaluate the prognostic impact of HE4 expression in patients with cancer.Materials and methods: We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure and WangFang databases for publications concerning HE4 expression in patients with cancer. The correlation of HE4 expression level with overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and progression-free survival (PFS) was analyzed.Results: In this meta-analysis, 29 studies, with a total of 4,235 patients, were included. Our results showed that HE4 expression was significantly associated with poorer OS (hazard ratio [HR] =2.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.77–2.62, P

Obesity is characterized by the deposition of excessive body fat, and is caused by energy imbalance, especially when consuming fat-rich diets. High fat diet (HFD)-associated obesity is greatly common in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that is emerging as one of the most universal causes of liver disease worldwide, especially in Western countries. In spite of its high prevalence, only a small proportion of affected individuals will become inflamed, followed by fibrosis and chronic liver diseases, and most patients only show simple steatosis. In this case, the full comprehension of the mechanisms underlying the progression of NAFLD is of extreme significance; in spite of progress in this field, awareness on the development of NAFLD is still incomplete. Traditionally, liver steatosis is commonly connected with HFD, obesity, and insulin resistance (IR). Recently, various possible mechanisms have been put forward for liver damage, including endoplasmic reticulum stress, perturbation of autophagy, mitochondrial dysfunction, hepatocellular apoptosis, gut microbiota imbalance, dysregulation of microRNAs, and genetic/epigenetic risk factors, as well as an increase in inflammatory responses, among many others. Collectively, these proposed mechanisms allow for a variety of hits acting together on subjects to mediated NAFLD and will offer a more accurate explanation for progression of NAFLD. Therefore, this review summarizes the present information concerning NAFLD after HFD exposure, as well as discusses possible mechanisms through which it may arise.

The aim of this study was to investigate the dose-dependent effect of ghrelin on gastric emptying in rats and the related mechanism of action. Sixty Wistar rats were randomized into control and test groups, which respectively received intraperitoneal injection of normal saline and ghrelin at different doses (0.5 nmol/kg, 1.0 nmol/kg, 1.5 nmol/kg, 2.0 nmol/kg, and 2.5 nmol/kg). After 45 minutes, all rats were gavaged with semisolid paste. The gastric emptying rate was determined 30 minutes later, and the plasma cholecystokinin level was tested by radioimmunoassay. The mean gastric emptying rate in the test groups was significantly higher than in the control group (38.24 ± 7.15% and 27.18 ± 2.37%, respectively, p

Soil carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions and carbon (C) sequestration are important processes for determining net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from maize fields. Farming management practices (FMPs) substantially affect crop productivity, soil organic carbon (SOC), and N2O emissions. However, relative knowledge is not sufficient, and further research is required for sustainable agriculture development. A multi-year experiment was performed on a spring maize field in the North China Plain (NCP) to quantify changes in SOC stocks, N2O emissions, and maize yields. Seven treatments were involved in the experiment, including no N fertilization (CK), farmers’ conventional N fertilization (FP), sole application of manure N (M), a combination of M and FP (MFP), FP combined with returned maize straw (SFP), fertilization with reduced synthetic N amount (RN), and fertilization with both reduced synthetic and manure N (RMN). The field measurements demonstrated that urea applications and returned maize straw increased N2O emission. The seasonal total N2O emissions under FP were significantly (P