5-Hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) is an important mammalian DNA epigenetic modification that has been linked to gene regulation and cancer pathogenesis. Here we explored the diagnostic potential of 5hmC in circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) using a sensitive chemical labeling-based low-input shotgun sequencing approach. We sequenced cell-free 5hmC from 49 patients of seven different cancer types and found distinct features that could be used to predict cancer types and stages with high accuracy. Specifically, we discovered that lung cancer leads to a progressive global loss of 5hmC in cfDNA, whereas hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic cancer lead to disease-specific changes in the cell-free hydroxymethylome. Our proof-of-principle results suggest that cell-free 5hmC signatures may potentially be used not only to identify cancer types but also to track tumor stage in some cancers.

LLR appears to be a safe and feasible option for resection of HCC in selected patients based on current evidence. However, further appropriately designed randomized controlled trials should be undertaken to ascertain these findings.

Meta-analysis of four RCTs based on ISGPF criteria, and seven RCTs using non-standard criteria, revealed that PG reduced the incidence of POPF after PD compared with PJ.

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LTG is safe and effective, and may offer some advantages over OTG in the treatment of gastric cancer.

Cigarette smoke (CS) increases up-regulation of TLR4-mediated signaling and induces TLR4-dependent inflammation in lungs. CS exposure–induced HMGB1 translocation and release of HMGB1 controls CS-induced inflammatory response. MGB1 induces TLR4-mediated proinflammatory cytokine production and activates NF-κB and JNK/p38 pathways.

Pancreatic duct stenting did not reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula and other complications in pancreaticoduodenectomy compared with no stenting. Although no difference was found between external and internal stents in terms of efficacy, external stents seemed to reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula compared with control.

This systematic review point towards some clinical advantages that are rendered by R-Y compared to B-I reconstruction post DG. However there is a need for further adequately powered, well-designed RCTs comparing the same.