Radical chemistry and VOCs-NOx-O3-nitrate sensitivity in the polluted atmosphere of a suburban site in the North China Plain.

In this study, the chemical mechanisms of O3 and nitrate formation as well as the control strategy were investigated based on extensive observations in Tai'an city in the NCP and an observation-constrained box model. The results showed that O3 pollution was severe with the maximum hourly O3 concentration reaching 150 ppb. Higher O3 concentration was typically accompanied by higher PM2.5 concentrations, which could be ascribed to the common precursors of VOCs and NOx. The modeled averaged peak concentrations of OH, HO2, and RO2 were relatively higher compared to previous observations, indicating strong atmospheric oxidation capacity in the study area. The ROx production rate increased from 2.8 ppb h-1 to 5 ppb h-1 from the clean case to the heavily polluted case and was dominated by HONO photolysis, followed by HCHO photolysis. The contribution of radical-self combination to radical termination gradually exceeded NO2 + OH from clean to polluted cases, indicating that O3 formation shifted to a more NOx-limited regime. The O3 production rate increased from 14 ppb h-1 to 22 ppb h-1 from clean to heavily polluted cases. The relative incremental reactivity (RIR) results showed that VOCs and NOx had comparable RIR values during most days, which suggested that decreasing VOCs or NOx was both effective in alleviating O3 pollution. In addition, HCHO, with the largest RIR value, made important contribution to O3 production. The Empirical Kinetic Modeling Approach (EKMA) revealed that synergistic control of O3 and nitrate can be achieved by decreasing both NOx and VOCs emissions (e.g., alkenes) with the ratio of 3:1. This study emphasized the importance of NOx abatement for the synergistic control of O3 and nitrate pollution in the Tai'an area as the sustained emissions control has shifted the O3 and nitrate formation to a more NOx-limited regime.

Mechanism, thermochemistry, and kinetics of formation of PhC(O)H and HOPhC(O)H during unimolecular decomposition of P-PhC(O2•)HPhOH.

CONTEXT: Bisphenols are one of the main components of bio-oil, produced during the pyrolysis of lignin-containing biomass. Synthetic bisphenols are used in polycarbonate plastics, epoxy resins, and thermal papers. Their mechanism of oxidation is important for the determination of the fire safety of these materials and the possibility of using them as additives in fuels for the decrease and description of ignition delays, as well as for the determination of their health risk assessment in medicine. One representative of bisphenols is p-benzylphenol (p-PhCH2PhOH), which is formed during the fast pyrolysis of lignine-containing biomass. Its thermochemistry of oxidation has been partially studied previously. It is shown that the reaction of chain oxidation of p-PhCH2PhOH is thermochemically favorable at low temperatures. However, these studies consider only two pathways of this reaction: (1) the chain oxidation of RH by RO2• and (2) the tautomerization of R'HO2• to R'O2H with following production of R'O• and OH radicals. At the same time, the reactions of intramolecular rearrangement of RO2•, produced PhC(O)H and •PhOH or HOPhC(O)H and •Ph, are not reported but can be an important part of its oxidation mechanism. METHODS: The five DFT (M06-2X (i = 1), B3LYP (i = 2), wB97XD (i = 3), M08HX (i = 4), MN15 (i = 5)) approaches with 6-311 + + G(d,p) basis set are used for the determination of standard enthalpies of atomization (ΔraH°(Xi)) of considered compounds (molecules, radicals, and transition states). These values of ΔraH°(Xi) are corrected using the empirical linear calibration dependencies, reported previously. The different calibration dependencies are used for the hydrocarbons (including the aromatics and simple oxygenated derivatives) and for the peroxides. The corrected values of ΔraH°(Xi, CORR) are used according to Hess's law for the determination of ΔfH°(Xi, CORR). The most consistent values of ΔfH°(X, MEAN) are derived from the coordination of the values of ΔfH°(Xi,CORR) using the intersection of their values of standard deviations (3SDi). These values of ΔfH°(X, MEAN), as well as the B3LYP values of S°(X), which are accounting the frequencies correction and internal rotations, as well as their temperature dependencies, are used for the determination of thermochemistry of considered reactions and of the calculation, within transition state theory (TST), of the values of high pressure limits of the rate constant. The values of H°(Xi), S°(Xi), and G°(Xi) are calculated using the Gaussian 16w program. The considered mechanism is prepared using ISIS/Draw package. The temperature dependencies of thermochemical properties and the values of rate constants are determined using the ChemRate program (v.1.5). The optimized structures are visualized using the Chemcraft package.

Mechanisms Associated with Superoxide Radical Scavenging Reactions Involving Phenolic Compounds Deduced Based on the Correlation between Oxidation Peak Potentials and Second-Order Rate Constants Determined Using Flow-Injection Spin-Trapping EPR Methods.

Flow-injection spin-trapping electron paramagnetic resonance (FI-EPR) methods that involve the use of 5,5-dimethyl-pyrroline-N-oxide (DMPO) as a spin-trapping reagent have been developed for the kinetic study of the O2•- radical scavenging reactions occurring in the presence of various plant-derived and synthetic phenolic antioxidants (Aox), such as flavonoid, pyrogallol, catechol, hydroquinone, resorcinol, and phenol derivatives in aqueous media (pH 7.4 at 25 °C). The systematically estimated second-order rate constants (ks) of these phenolic compounds span a wide range (from 4.5 × 10 to 1.0 × 106 M-1 s-1). The semilogarithm plots presenting the relationship between ks values and oxidation peak potential (Ep) values of phenolic Aox are divided into three groups (A1, A2, and B). The ks-Ep plots of phenolic Aox bearing two or three OH moieties, such as pyrogallol, catechol, and hydroquinone derivatives, belonged to Groups A1 and A2. These molecules are potent O2•- radical scavengers with ks values above 3.8 × 104 (M-1 s-1). The ks-Ep plots of all phenol and resorcinol derivatives, and a few catechol and hydroquinone derivatives containing carboxyl groups adjacent to the OH groups, were categorized into the group poor scavengers (ks < 1.6 × 103 M-1 s-1). The ks values of each group correlated negatively with Ep values, supporting the hypothesis that the O2•- radical scavenging reaction proceeds via one-electron and two-proton processes. The processes were accompanied by the production of hydrogen peroxide at pH 7.4. Furthermore, the correlation between the plots of ks and the OH proton dissociation constant (pKa•) of the intermediate aroxyl radicals (ks-pKa• plots) revealed that the second proton transfer process could potentially be the rate-determining step of the O2•- radical scavenging reaction of phenolic compounds. The ks-Ep plots provide practical information to predict the O2•- radical scavenging activity of plant-derived phenolic compounds based on those molecular structures.

Robotic assisted vs open radical cystectomy: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis.

Several randomized control trials (RCTs) have been published comparing open (ORC) with robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC). However, uncertainty persists regarding this issue, as evidences and recommendations on RARC are still lacking. In this systematic review and metaanalysis, we summarized evidence in this context. A literature search was conducted according to PRISMA criteria, using PubMed/Medline, Web Of Science and Embase, up to March 2024. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected. The primary endpoint was to investigate health-related quality of life (QoL) both at 3 and 6 months after surgery. Secondary endpoints include pathological and perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications and oncological outcomes. Furthermore, we conducted a cost evaluation based on the available evidence. Eight RCTs were included, encompassing 1024 patients (515 RARC versus 509 ORC). QoL appeared similar among the two groups both after 3 and 6 months. No significant differences in overall and major complications at 30 days (p = 0.11 and p > 0.9, respectively) and 90 days (p = 0.28 and p = 0.57, respectively) were observed, as well as in oncological, pathological and perioperative outcomes, excepting from operative time, which was longer in RARC (MD 92.34 min, 95% CI 83.83-100.84, p < 0.001) and transfusion rate, which was lower in RARC (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.30-0.61, p < 0.001). Both ORC and RARC are viable options for bladder cancer, having comparable complication rates and oncological outcomes. RARC provides transfusion rate advantages, however, it has longer operative time and higher costs. QoL outcomes appear similar between the two groups, both after 3 and 6 months.

Thromboprophylaxis during neoadjuvant chemotherapy for bladder cancer reduces thromboembolism and bleeding.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the risk of venous thromboembolic events (VTEs) and bleeding with or without thromboprophylaxis during neoadjuvant chemotherapy in bladder cancer patients scheduled for radical cystectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study in 4886 patients with non-metastatic bladder cancer undergoing cystectomy across 28 centres in 13 countries between 1990 and 2021. Inverse probability weighting analyses were performed to estimate the effect of thromboprophylaxis on VTE and bleeding. RESULTS: In 147 patients (3%) VTEs were recorded within the first year. These occurred a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 127 (82-198) days after bladder cancer diagnosis. Bleeding events occurred in 131 patients (3%) within the first year. These occurred a median (IQR) of 101 (83-171) days after cancer diagnosis. In inverse probability weighting analyses, compared to patients without thromboprophylaxis during chemotherapy, patients with thromboprophylaxis had not only a lower risk of VTE (hazard ratio [HR] 0.32, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.12-0.81; P = 0.016) but also a lower bleeding risk (HR 0.03, 95% CI 0.09-0.12; P <0.0001). The retrospective nature of the study was its main limitation. CONCLUSIONS: In this retrospective analysis, the benefit of thromboprophylaxis during neoadjuvant chemotherapy before cystectomy is in line with data from randomised trials in other malignancies. Our data suggest thromboprophylaxis is protective against VTEs and should be the standard of care during neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Laparoscopic Retrograde Nephrectomy as a Troubleshooting Technique to Prevent Open Conversion: The Technique Description With a Review of 40 Cases.

Introduction Laparoscopic nephrectomies are safe, with low complication rates in skilled hands. However, traditional approaches may be unsuitable for conditions such as post-renal abscesses, long-standing urinomas, non-functioning kidneys post-pyeloplasty, pyelolithotomies, post-partial nephrectomy recurrences, tuberculous kidneys, pyelonephritis, and redo-renal surgeries. This study describes a modified retrograde nephrectomy technique and its outcomes in 40 cases. Methods We reviewed 40 cases where the retrograde nephrectomy technique was used. Surgeons opted for this method based on intraoperative findings and initial difficulties in accessing the lower pole area. Results Traditional dissection was challenging due to adhesions in the lower pole. The retrograde technique, starting from the renal hilum, allowed early ligation of renal arteries and veins, reducing bleeding risks and facilitating safer caudal dissection. Conclusions The retrograde nephrectomy technique offers a safer and more efficient alternative for complex nephrectomies. Early vascular control minimizes hemorrhage risk, making it a valuable method in challenging renal surgeries.

Four years of natural progressive course: A rare case report of juvenile Xp11.2 translocations renal cell carcinoma with TFE3 gene fusion.

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with TFE3 gene fusion caused by Xp11.2 translocations is a rare RCC subtype. This tumor is typically seen in children, comprising 20‒40% of overall RCC cases compared to 1‒1.6% observed in adults. Xp11.2 RCC is associated with a poor prognosis due to both the progression of local lesions and early distant and lymphatic metastasis. Case presentation: A case of RCC with Xp11.2 RCC translocations and TFE3 gene fusion was found in a pediatric patient, illustrating the catastrophic effects of ignoring the condition. The tumor developed from a local lesion to lymph metastasis (3.2-12 cm) within 4 years. Despite ongoing controversy, surgical resection remains the most common and productive approach. In this patient, renal retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and radical nephrectomy of the left kidney were performed via laparoscopic surgery. The RCC-associated Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusions were identified by postoperative pathology. Microscopic analysis showed the presence of intravascular cancer thrombus, renal sinus invasion, and cancer necrosis. The pathological stages were confirmed as PT3aN1M0 with a negative margin. Follow-up at 5 months showed that the patient recovered without the use of any adjuvant treatments. Conclusion: Our study highlights the natural course, diagnosis, and treatment of RCC-associated Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusions, especially the necessity of early surgery. This case may be a helpful reference for urologists in the treatment of similar cases. It also serves as a precautionary signal for patients who neglect the renal neoplasm.

Expansion of Auxiliary Activity Family 5 sequence space via biochemical characterization of six new copper radical oxidases.

Bacterial and fungal copper radical oxidases (CROs) from Auxiliary Activity Family 5 (AA5) are implicated in morphogenesis and pathogenesis. The unique catalytic properties of CROs also make these enzymes attractive biocatalysts for the transformation of small molecules and biopolymers. Despite a recent increase in the number of characterized AA5 members, especially from subfamily 2 (AA5_2), the catalytic diversity of the family as a whole remains underexplored. In the present study, phylogenetic analysis guided the selection of six AA5_2 members from diverse fungi for recombinant expression in Komagataella pfaffii (syn. Pichia pastoris) and biochemical characterization in vitro. Five of the targets displayed predominant galactose 6-oxidase activity (EC 1.1.3.9), and one was a broad-specificity aryl alcohol oxidase (EC 1.1.3.7) with maximum activity on the platform chemical 5-hydroxymethyl furfural (EC 1.1.3.47). Sequence alignment comparing previously characterized AA5_2 members to those from this study indicated various amino acid substitutions at active site positions implicated in the modulation of specificity.IMPORTANCEEnzyme discovery and characterization underpin advances in microbial biology and the application of biocatalysts in industrial processes. On one hand, oxidative processes are central to fungal saprotrophy and pathogenesis. On the other hand, controlled oxidation of small molecules and (bio)polymers valorizes these compounds and introduces versatile functional groups for further modification. The biochemical characterization of six new copper radical oxidases further illuminates the catalytic diversity of these enzymes, which will inform future biological studies and biotechnological applications.

Unravelling White Phosphorus: Experimental and Computational Studies Reveal the Mechanisms of P4 Hydrostannylation.

The hydrostannylation of white phosphorus (P4) allows this crucial industrial precursor to be easily transformed into useful P1 products via direct, 'one pot' (or even catalytic) procedures. However, a thorough mechanistic understanding of this transformation has remained elusive, hindering attempts to use this rare example of successful, direct P4 functionalization as a model for further reaction development. Here, we provide a deep and generalizable mechanistic picture for P4 hydrostannylation by combining DFT calculations with in situ31P NMR reaction monitoring and kinetic trapping of previously unobservable reaction intermediates using bulky tin hydrides. The results offer important insights into both how this reaction proceeds and why it is successful and provide implicit guidelines for future research in the field of P4 activation.

Bilateral Synchronous Testicular Cancer with Discordant Histopathology: A Case Report.

Bilateral testicular tumors account for 1 to 5% of all testicular tumors. Most bilateral tumors are observed metachronously. Synchronous tumors usually present with the similar histological pattern. Bilateral synchronous testicular tumors with discordant pathology are extremely rare. Only 56 cases have been documented since Bidard first described synchronous testicular tumors with discordant pathology in 1853. To our best knowledge, this study will be the 57th case in the literature.

Comparative efficacy of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin instillation and radical cystectomy treatments for high-risk non-muscle-invasive urothelial cancer classified as high-grade T1 in initial and repeat transurethral resection of bladder tumor.

Objective: To compare the differential therapeutic effects of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) instillation and radical cystectomy (RC) for high-risk non-muscle-invasive urothelial cancer (NMIBC) classified as high-grade T1 in initial and repeat transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT) and to construct a prediction model. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of patients with malignant bladder tumors treated at the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from January 2016 to December 2017 and compared the differences in 1-year, 2-year, 3-year, 5-year, and comprehensive overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) between BCG instillation treatment and RC treatment. Survival curves were drawn to show differences in OS and PFS between the two groups. Concurrently, univariate and multivariate COX analyses were performed to identify risk factors affecting OS and PFS, and a nomogram was created. Results: In total, 146 patients were included in the study, of whom 97 and 49 were in the BCG and RC groups, respectively. No statistical differences were observed in the 1- and 2-year OS and PFS between the two groups, whereas significant statistical differences were found in the 3-year, 5-year, and comprehensive OS and PFS. Survival curves also confirmed the statistical differences in OS and PFS between the BCG and RC groups. Multivariate COX analysis revealed that the treatment method, concomitant satellite lesions, and albumin-to-alkaline phosphatase ratio (AAPR) were independent risk factors affecting OS and PFS. The nomogram that was further plotted showed good predictive ability for OS and PFS. Conclusion: For patients who exhibit high-level T1 pathology after both initial and repeat TURBT, especially those with low AAPR, and concomitant satellite lesions, choosing RC as a treatment method offers a better prognosis.

Photoinduced Redox Cascade Reaction of Isatins and Aliphatic Carboxylic Acids to Access 6-Hydroxyindoloquinazolinones.

A visible-light-induced cascade reaction is described for the one-pot synthesis of 6-hydroxyindoloquinazolinones using isatins (or isatins and isatoic anhydrides) and aliphatic carboxylic acids. The method provides 36 desired products in 33-96% yield, exhibiting broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance. This approach utilizes inexpensive and commercially available starting materials, enabling the direct construction of high-value complex structures under mild conditions without the need for photocatalyst, showcasing significant applicability and environmental friendliness.

Synergetic sludge conditioning by US enhanced Fe2+ activated sodium persulfate: physicochemical properties and mechanisms.

Efficient dewatering of sewage sludge is an energy- and carbon-saving procedure for sludge treatment in wastewater treatment facilities. The ultrasound-coupled divalent iron ion activated persulfate process can effectively promote sludge dewatering and improve organic substance content. Under the action of ultrasound (US 50 w/L), divalent iron ions (Fe2+) 200 mg/g (TS), and persulfate (PDS) 200 mg/g (TS) for 60 min, the capillary suction time (CST) was reduced by 79.74%, and the moisture content of the dewatered sludge cake reached 56.51 wt%. The organic carbon content of treated sludge was also four times higher than the original sludge and types were richer in short-chain volatile species in US/Fe2+/PDS. Moreover, the correlation analysis found that the relationship of between CST and SV30, Zeta and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were positive correlation, and the relationship of SCOD and TC were positively correlated with the PN (SB-EPS). Mechanistic studies showed that the US/Fe2+/PDS system could produce oxygen activators by US coupling Fe2+ to strengthen the effect of activated PDS strongly, while the sulfate radicals (SO4·-) radical was a dominant role. The cracking mechanism is divided into two pathways effectively degraded the macromolecule EPS into a small-molecule acid and further reduced the water-holding interfacial affinity as follow: (1) the radical path dominated by hydroxyl radicals (·OH), SO4·-, and superoxide radical (O2·-); (2) the non-radicals dominated by monoclinic oxygen (1O2). Afterwards, the electrostatic force and interfacial free energy were reduced, resulting in enhanced self-flocculation and mobility to enhanced dewaterability. These findings demonstrated the US/Fe2+/PDS system had significant advantages in sludge cracking and provided theoretical support for its practical application.

Unveiling the Mechanism and Kinetics of Pollutant Attenuation by Free Radicals Triggered from Goethite in Water Distribution Systems.

Investigating the fate of persistent organic pollutants in water distribution systems (WDSs) is of great significance for preventing human health risks. The role of iron corrosion scales in the migration and transformation of organics in such systems remains unclear. Herein, we determined that hydroxyl (•OH), chlorine, and chlorine oxide radicals are generated by Fenton-like reactions due to the coexistence of oxygen vacancy-related Fe(II) on goethite (a major constituent of iron corrosion scales) and hypochlorous acid (HClO, the main reactive chlorine species of residual chlorine at pH ∼ 7.0). •OH contributed mostly to the decomposition of atrazine (ATZ, model compound) more than other radicals, producing a series of relatively low-toxicity small molecular intermediates. A simplified kinetic model consisting of mass transfer of ATZ and HClO, •OH generation, and ATZ oxidation by •OH on the goethite surface was developed to simulate iron corrosion scale-triggered residual chlorine oxidation of organic compounds in a WDS. The model was validated by comparing the fitting results to the experimental data. Moreover, the model was comprehensively applicable to cases in which various inorganic ions (Ca2+, Na+, HCO3-, and SO42-) and natural organic matter were present. With further optimization, the model may be employed to predict the migration and accumulation of persistent organic pollutants under real environmental conditions in the WDSs.

Photochemical Initiation and Reactions of Thiyl Radicals Studied with SH2' Radical Traps.

A radical trapping method based on an SH2' homolytic substitution reaction was applied to study the mechanism of a photochemical spirocyclisation of indole-ynones in the presence of thiols. Starting material, products and a range of trapped radical intermediates were simultaneously detected in reaction mixtures by mass spectrometry (MS). The trapped intermediates included both initiating and main chain propagating radicals. These data made it possible to propose a self-initiation mechanism consistent with the originally postulated photoexcitation of an intramolecular electron donor-acceptor complex of the substrate. The effect of thiol structure on the MS peak intensity of the reaction components was rationalised in terms of the relative stability of the radical intermediates. The results were compared to a simpler related reaction, a photochemical thiol-ene addition where reagents, products and trapped intermediate radicals were also detected by MS. Relative MS peak intensities were again explained by a combination of electronic and steric effects on the stability of intermediate radicals. Overall, SH2' radical trapping was demonstrated to be a powerful experimental technique for providing mechanistic evidence on photochemical and other organic radical reactions.

Investigation of risk factors for vaginal dehiscence and development of small bowel evisceration after robot-assisted radical cystectomy for female bladder cancer and an improved vaginal reconstruction technique to prevent its onset.

Transvaginal organ prolapse, such as small bowel evisceration, is a rare complication after radical cystectomy (RC) in female patients with invasive bladder cancer, However, it often requires emergency surgical repair. Here, we describe our experience with such a case and a review of similar previously reported cases, along with evaluation of the risk factors. We also propose a vaginal reconstruction technique to prevent this complication during robot-assisted laparoscopic radical cystectomy (RARC). A total of 178 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) or RARC were enrolled, 34 of whom (19%) were female. One of the 34 female patients had transvaginal small bowel evisceration after RARC. We evaluated our case and six such previously reported cases, to determine vaginal reconstruction techniques during RARC to prevent this complication postoperatively. Median age of these cases was 73 (51-80) years, and all patients were postmenopausal. The median time to small bowel evisceration was 14 (6-120) weeks postoperatively. In addition, we changed the methods of the vaginal reconstruction technique during RARC from the conventional side-to-side closure technique to the improved caudal-to-cephalad closure technique. Since implementing this change, we have not experienced any cases of vaginal vault dehiscence or organ prolapse. Transvaginal small bowel evisceration after RC can easily become severe. Therefore, all possible preventive measures should be taken during RARC. We believe that our vaginal reconstruction techniques might reduce the risk of developing this complication.

Fifty-five cases of hepatic alveolar echinococcosis combined with lymph node metastasis: A retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Lymph node metastasis is a specific type of metastasis in hepatic alveolar echinococcosis (AE). Currently, there is a scarcity of describing the clinical characteristics and lymph node metastasis rules of patients with hepatic AE combined with lymph node metastasis and its mechanism and management are still controversial. Radical hepatectomy combined with regional lymph node dissection is a better treatment. AIM: To analyse the clinical features of hepatic AE combined with lymph node metastasis to explore its treatment and efficacy. METHODS: A total of 623 patients with hepatic AE admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from 1 January 2012 to 1 January 2022 were retrospectively analysed. Fifty-five patients with combined lymph node metastasis were analysed for their clinical data, diagnosis and treatment methods, follow-up efficacy, and characteristics of lymph node metastasis. Finally, we comparatively analysed the lymph node metastasis rates at different sites. Categorical variables are expressed as frequencies and percentages, and the analysis of difference was performed using the χ 2 test. The Bonferroni method was used for pairwise comparisons when statistical differences existed between multiple categorical variables. RESULTS: A lymph node metastasis rate of 8.8% (55/623) was reported in patients with hepatic AE, with a female predilection (69.1%) and a statistically significant sex difference (χ 2 = 8.018, P = 0.005). Of the 55 patients with lymph node metastasis, 72.7% had a parasite lesion, neighbouring organ invasion, and metastasis stage of P3N1M0 and above, of which 67.3%, 78.2%, and 34.5% of hepatic AE lesions invaded the bile ducts, blood vessels, and distant metastases, respectively. Detection rates of lymph node metastasis of 16.4%, 21.7%, and 34.2% were reported for a preoperative abdominal ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography examinations. All patients were intraoperatively suspected with enlarged lymph nodes and underwent radical hepatectomy combined with regional lymph node dissection. After surgery, a routine pathological examination was conducted on the resected lymph nodes. A total of 106 positive lymph nodes were detected in six groups at various sites, including 51 single-group metastasis cases and four multi-group metastasis cases. When the metastasis rates at different sites were statistically analysed, we observed that the metastasis rate in the para-hepatoduodenal ligament lymph nodes was significantly higher than that of the other sites (χ 2 = 128.089, P = 0.000 < 0.05). No statistical difference was observed in the metastasis rate between the five other groups. Clavien-Dindo grade IIIa complication occurred in 14 cases, which improved after administering symptomatic treatment. Additionally, lymph node dissection-related complications were not observed. Recurrence after 2 years was observed in one patient. CONCLUSION: Lymph node metastasis is a rare form of metastasis in hepatic AE, which is more frequent in women. Para-hepatoduodenal ligament lymph nodes are commonly observed. Radical hepatectomy combined with regional lymph node dissection is a safe, effective, and feasible treatment for liver AE combined with lymph node metastasis.

Carcinosarcoma of breast - A chimera among breast neoplasms.

Malignant phyllodes, along with ductal carcinoma, is known as metaplastic cancer of the breast. This tumor is additionally known as breast carcinosarcoma. Malignant phyllodes in conjunction with ductal carcinoma is a rare finding in routine clinical practice. We describe the case report of a 47-year-old female patient who arrived with a large right breast mass. A core biopsy was performed, and histopathological examination indicated that the tumor was a malignant phyllodes tumor. A positron emission tomography (PET) scan revealed hyper-metabolic and hypo-metabolic tumors with perilesional stranding and satellite nodularity. There were a few metastatic right axillary nodes visible. There was no indication of distant metastases. Due to the presence of both components, a modified radical mastectomy surgery with axillary dissection was undertaken for this patient. Histopathological analysis of paraffin sections revealed ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) comedo-epithelial component and spindle-shaped cells with hyper-chromatic oval nuclei and scanty cytoplasm.

Effects of superoxide radical on photosynthesis and K+ and redox homeostasis in quinoa and spinach.

Methyl viologen (MV), also known as paraquat, is a widely used herbicide but has also been reported as highly toxic to different life forms. The mode of its operation is related to superoxide radical (O2.-) production and consequent oxidative damage. However, besides the damage to key macromolecules, reactive oxygen species (ROS; to which O2.- belongs) are also known as regulators of numerous ion transport systems located at cellular membranes. In this study, we used MV as a tool to probe the role of O2.- in regulating membrane-transport activity and systemic acquired tolerance in halophytic Chenopodium quinoa and glycophytic spinach plants. Both plant species showed growth reduction in terms of reduced shoot length, lower shoot fresh and dry weight, photosynthesis rate, and chlorophyll contents; however, quinoa showed less reduction in growth compared with spinach. This whole plant response was further examined by measuring the ion concentration, gene expression of ion transporters, activation of antioxidants, and osmolyte accumulation. We observed that at the mechanistic level, the differences in growth in response to MV were conferred by at least four complementary physiological mechanisms: (1) higher K+ loss from spinach leaves resulted from higher expression of MV-induced plasma membrane-based depolarization-activated K+ efflux GORK channel, (2) higher activation of high-affinity K+ uptake transporter HAK5 in quinoa, (3) higher antioxidant production and osmolyte accumulation in quinoa as compared with spinach, and (4) maintaining a higher rate of photosynthesis due to higher chlorophyll contents, and efficiency of photosystem II and reduced ROS and MDA contents. Obtained results also showed that MV induced O2.- significantly reduced N contents in both species but with more pronounced effects in glycophytic spinach. Taken together this study has shown the role of O2.- in regulating membrane ion transport and N metabolism in the leaves of halophyte vs. glycophyte in the context of oxidative stress tolerance.