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ObjectiveThis study aims to summarize the clinical experience of using Hem-o-lok clips for the closure of the left subclavian artery (LSA) stump in patients with acute Stanford type A aortic dissection.MethodsClinical data were collected from 96 patients with acute type A aortic dissection admitted to our hospital from January 2020 to December 2022. The cohort comprised 61 males and 35 females, with an average age of 52 ± 9.57 years and a mean body weight of 79.54 ± 12.57 kg. The mean diameter of the LSA opening was 11.24 ± 1.48 mm, as measured by computer tomography angiography (CTA) of the thoracoabdominal aorta. All patients underwent emergency Sun's procedure. The surgical method for the LSA stump was selected based on the anatomical location, depth of the subclavian artery, vessel diameter, length of the free vessel, and extent of dissection. Techniques included the use of two Hem-o-lok clips, 5–0 prolene suture with one Hem-o-lok clip, and 5–0 prolene suture alone.ResultsAll the patients successfully completed Sun's procedure as planned. Two Hem-o-lok clips were used to close the stump of the LSA in 38 cases. A combination of 5–0 prolene suture and one Hem-o-lok clip were used to close the stump of the LSA in 54 cases. The LSA stumps for 4 cases were closed with 5–0 prolene suture only. Postoperative complications included cerebral infarction in one patient, renal insufficiency in one patient, and gastrointestinal bleeding in one patient. There were no surgery-related deaths, no paraplegia,and all patients were successfully discharged. The 1-year follow-up CTA of the thoracoabdominal aorta demonstrated effective thrombosis of the false lumen in the stented segment of the thoracic aorta, no aneurysmal dilatation, and successful closure of the LSA stump.ConclusionsThe simplified approach of Hem-o-lok closure of the LSA stump largely mitigates the difficulty in the LSA operation process,shortens the time of operation and reduces bleeding risk, thus effectively improving a patient's prognosis and yielding satisfactory clinical outcomes.

A 56-year-old man with a 5-year history of paroxysmal palpitations, which have worsened over the past year, was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. During evaluation, transesophageal echocardiography revealed a left atrium (LA) tumoral mass attached to the atrial septal fossa ovale, with intra-tumoral blood flow and blood stream draining from the mass. Both coronary computed tomography angiography and coronary angiography demonstrated a coro-cameral fistula connection between the left circumflex artery (LCX) branch and the LA. In addition, they showed feeding arteries of the mass arising from the LCX. The patient underwent surgical resection of the LA mass and repair of the coronary artery fistula. Intraoperative exploration revealed a 1.7 cm × 1.0 cm jelly-like, brittle LA mass and confirmed a rupture of the supplying artery, leading to a coronary artery–left atrial fistula. Surgical ligation was executed to ensure complete sealing of the supplying coronary branch within the atrial septum. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of left atrial myxoma. The 6-month follow-up indicated no recurrence of the myxoma and restoration of sinus rhythm after radiofrequency ablation. In the literature, cases of a left circumflex artery branch–left atrial fistula due to rupture of the artery supplying a left atrial myxoma are rare.

Abstract Background The differential expression, biological function, and ceRNA regulatory mechanism of lncRNA XIST in bladder cancer (BC) were investigated, and its clinical values for the early diagnosis of bladder cancer patients were elucidated. Methods qRT-PCR was employed to detect the expression patterns of lncRNA XIST, miR-129-5p and TNFSF10. The biological functions were measured by CCK8 assay, wound healing assay and transwell assay. Bioinformatics analysis and Dual-Luciferase reporter assay were employed to evaluate the interactions between the lncRNA XIST, miR-129-5p and TNFSF10. Results LncRNA XIST and TNFSF10 were highly expressed and miR-129-5p was low expressed (P

Fe/N-based biomass porous carbon composite (Fe/N-pCarbon) was prepared by a facile high-temperature carbonization method from biomass, and the effect of Fe/N-pCarbon on the thermal decomposition of energetic molecular perovskite-based material DAP-4 was studied. Biomass porous carbonaceous materials was considered as the micro/nano support layers for in situ deposition of Fe/N precursors. Fe/N-pCarbon was prepared simply by the high-temperature carbonization method. It was found that it showed the inherent catalysis properties for thermal decomposition of DAP-4. The heat release of DAP-4/Fe/N-pCarbon by DSC curves tested had increased slightly, compared from DAP-4/Fe/N-pCarbon-0. The decomposition temperature peak of DAP-4 at the presence of Fe/N-pCarbon had reduced by 79°C from 384.4°C (pure DAP-4) to 305.4°C (DAP-4/Fe/N-pCarbon-3). The apparent activation energy of DAP-4 thermal decomposition also had decreased by 29.1 J/mol. The possible catalytic decomposition mechanism of DAP-4 with Fe/N-pCarbon was proposed.

Synovial sarcoma, a rare malignant neoplasm with a poor prognosis, accounts for approximately 5%-10% of all primary soft-tissue malignancies worldwide. Typically affecting adolescents and young adults, it primarily manifests near the joints of the lower extremities. This study aimed to demonstrate that this tumor can also affect the prevertebral space. A 32-year-old male patient presented at our outpatient clinic with a 2-month history of upper limb numbness and a 1-month complaint of palpable neck mass. Imaging studies revealed a bulky, lobulated, and heterogeneous mass exhibiting heterogeneous enhancement. Furthermore, the mass caused expansion of the neuroforamen in the neck, initially suggesting a diagnosis of malignant schwannoma. However, a histopathologic examination suggested synovial sarcoma. The article provided a comprehensive review of the clinical, pathological, and radiological features of this condition. Additionally, it explored current treatment options and prognoses by referencing relevant literature.

Abstract Studies considering the relationship between non-obesity-related body composition and lung function are few; therefore, this study aimed to explore these correlations and effects. This cross-sectional study conducted in rural Qingtongxia City and Pingluo County, Ningxia, China, included 776 participants aged 30–75 years. Body composition and lung function were measured using direct segmental multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis and a digital spirometer, respectively. Their correlation was assessed using partial correlation analysis, controlling for age and smoking status, and the body composition effect on lung function was analyzed using binomial logistic regression analysis. The body components total body water content, protein content, mineral content, muscle mass, fat-free mass (FFM), skeletal muscle mass, basal metabolic volume, and chest circumference (CC) positively correlated with pulmonary function (forced vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in one second) in both sexes. Neck circumference and hip circumference positively correlated with pulmonary function in women. Additionally, lung function declines more slowly in women (odds ratio [OR] = 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.44–0.98, p = 0.04); CC (OR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.86–0.98, p = 0.01) increased as a protective factor for decreased lung function. Increased waist circumference (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.00–1.09, p = 0.04) was a risk factor for reduced lung function. FFM contains body composition indicators positively correlating with lung function, excluding fat-related body composition. Abdominal obesity increases the risk of decreased lung function.

Energetic molecular perovskites have attracted widespread attention in the fields of energy materials due to their high detonation performance. In this work, we reported the effect of MgCo2O4 nanosheets on the thermal decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (NH4ClO4, AP)-based energetic molecular perovskites (AP-based energetic molecular perovskites). The morphology and structure of the MgCo2O4 nanosheets were characterized. And their catalytic effect on the thermal decomposition of AP-based energetic molecular perovskites (H2pz)[NH4(ClO4)3] (PAP-4), (H2dabco)[NH4(ClO4)3] (DAP-4), (H2mpz)[NH4(ClO4)3] (PAP-M4), and (H2hpz)[NH4(ClO4)3] (PAP-H4) was analyzed. The results showed that MgCo2O4 nanosheets had excellent intrinsically catalytic performance towards enhancing the thermal decomposition of AP-based energetic molecular perovskites. After adding MgCo2O4 nanosheets, the thermal decomposition peak temperatures of PAP-4, DAP-4, PAP-M4, and PAP-H4 had been reduced by 35.7 °C, 48.4 °C, 37.9 °C, and 43.6 °C, respectively. And the activation energy (Ea) of the thermal decomposition of AP-based energetic molecular perovskites had been reduced, the Ea of PAP-H4 decreased by 46.4 kJ/mol at most among them. The catalytic mechanism of MgCo2O4 nanosheets for AP-based energetic molecular perovskites is analyzed. This work provides a reference for the future application of AP-based energetic molecular perovskites.

Improving the thermal decomposition performance of hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL-20) by appropriate methods is helpful to promote the combustion performance of CL-20-based solid propellants. In this study, we synthesized a sandwich structure of CL-20 and nanoporous carbon scaffolds film (NCS) and emphatically studied the thermal decomposition performance of the composite structure. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry were used to measure the thermal decomposition process of the composite structure. The kinetic parameters of thermal decomposition were calculated by the thermal dynamic analysis software AKTS. These results showed that the thermal decomposition performance of the sandwich structure of CL-20 and NCS was better than CL-20. Among the tested samples, NCS with a pore size of 15 nm had the best catalytic activity for the thermal decomposition of CL-20. Moreover, the thermal decomposition curve of the composite structure at the heating rate of 1 K/min was deconvoluted by mathematical method to study the thermal decomposition process. And a possible catalytic mechanism was proposed. The excellent thermal decomposition performance is due to the sandwich structure enhances the interface reaction of CL-20 and NCS. This work may promote the extensive use of CL-20 in the field of solid rocket propellant.

Understanding of the interplay reactions between components in CL-20 bicomponent crystals is fundamental for synthesis and applications of new CL-20 cocrystals and host-guest materials. This paper reports the thermal decomposition of CL-20/N2O host-guest crystal investigated using ReaxFF MD simulations under both isothermal and adiabatic conditions. The isothermal thermolysis simulation at low temperature of 800 ​K and adiabatic decomposition simulation initiated at 800 ​K were performed to reveal as much as the real and overall scenario of CL-20/N2O thermolysis. Two reference systems of ε-CL-20 and CL-20/H2O were employed for clear depiction of reaction mechanism. Permitted by VARxMD for reaction details and facilitated by the three-stage classification, the overall scenario of CL-20/N2O thermolysis and deep insight about the interplay reaction details between host CL-20 and guest N2O were obtained. The dominating of host CL-20 decomposition during entire thermolysis of CL-20/N2O is similar with that of CL-20/HMX and CL-20/TNT. However, the branching ratios of major reaction pathways of CL-20 initial decomposition were altered. The decomposition kinetics in initial thermolysis of CL-20/N2O was found significantly slowed when compared with ε-CL-20, which is caused by the guest N2O molecules that capture the NO2 intermediates generated from host CL-20 decomposition and prevent NO2 from their active participation in further decomposition of the system. It should be noted that the early formation of N2 from guest N2O in CL-20/N2O decomposition accelerates self-heating at certain extent and provides extra oxidative NO3, which slightly compensates to the slowed kinetics in the initial stage. The acceleration effect of guest oxidant N2O on CL-20/N2O decomposition will sustain through the ​oxygen migration of guest N2O in later secondary reactions to form more NOx than that of CL-20/H2O, consequently reducing the reaction zone of CL-20/N2O thermolysis. What was obtained in this work demonstrates that ReaxFF MD simulations combined with the analysis scheme of three-stage classification can facilitate the depiction of thermolysis mechanism of CL-20 bicomponent crystals and be useful in searching for leading candidates of guest molecules for CL-20 host-guest materials.

As a component of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) “writers,” KIAA1429 was reported to promote breast cancer proliferation and growth in m6A-independent manners. However, the related mechanism of KIAA1429 in breast cancer metastasis has not been reported. In the present study, we found KIAA1429 could significantly promote the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells. Then we demonstrated that knockdown of KIAA1429 could impede breast cancer metastasis in nude mice in vivo. The level of SNAIL expression and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progress was positively related with KIAA1429. Furthermore, we confirmed that the suppression of cell migration, invasion, and EMT progress by knockdown of KIAA1429 could be reversed by the upregulation of SNAIL. However, structural maintenance of chromosomes 1A (SMC1A), not KIAA1429, bound with the SNAIL promoter region directly and promoted the transcription of SNAIL. Then we confirmed that KIAA1429 could bind to the motif in the 3′ UTR of SMC1A mRNA directly and enhance SMC1A mRNA stability. In conclusion, our study revealed a novel mechanism of the KIAA1429/SMC1A/SNAIL axis in the regulation of metastasis of breast cancer. Moreover, it first provided detailed investigation of how KIAA1429 regulated the targeted gene expression at posttranscriptional levels as an RNA binding protein unrelated to its m6A modification.

Abstract Background Recently, the role of several microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) in pulmonary diseases has been described. The molecular mechanisms by which miR-214 is possibly implicated in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) have not yet been addressed. Hence, this study aimed to investigate a putative role of miR-214 in alveolarization among preterm neonates with BPD. Methods Microarray-based gene expression profiling data from BPD was employed to identify differentially expressed genes. A BPD neonatal rat model was induced by hyperoxia. Pulmonary epithelial cells were isolated from rats and exposed to hyperoxia to establish cell injury models. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were performed in BPD neonatal rats and hyperoxic pulmonary epithelial cells. MiR-214 and PlGF expression in BPD neonatal rats, and eNOS, Bcl-2, c-myc, Survivin, α-SMA and E-cadherin expression in hyperoxic pulmonary epithelial cells were measured using RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis. The interaction between PlGF and miR-214 was identified using dual luciferase reporter gene and RIP assays. IL-1β, TNF-a, IL-6, ICAM-1 and Flt-1 expression in the rat models was measured using ELISA. Results The lung tissues of neonatal rats with BPD showed decreased miR-214 expression with elevated PlGF expression. PlGF was found to be a target of miR-214, whereby miR-214 downregulated PlGF to inactivate the STAT3 pathway. miR-214 overexpression or PlGF silencing decreased the apoptosis of hyperoxic pulmonary epithelial cells in vitro and restored alveolarization in BPD neonatal rats. Conclusion Overall, the results demonstrated that miR-214 could facilitate alveolarization in preterm neonates with BPD by suppressing the PlGF-dependent STAT3 pathway.

PurposeBy reporting clinical characteristics and retinal image quality before and after refractive lens replacement surgery in early-onset high myopia (eoHM) patients presenting with partial cataract, we emphasized the need for an objective way to grade the severity of partial cataracts.MethodsThis retrospective, consecutive case series included six Chinese patients (nine eyes). Analysis of previous medical records, visual acuity, optometry, retinal image quality, and axial length (AXL) before surgery and after surgery was performed.ResultsFive females and one male (nine eyes) with a mean (± SD) age of 11.6 ± 7.9 years (range: 4–25 years) were included in this study. The preoperative spherical power ranged from −7.5 to −42 D. The mean follow-up time was 36 months (range: 24–48 months). Phacoemulsification was followed by in-the-bag implantation of intraocular lens. For patients who were under 6 years old, posterior capsulotomy + anterior vitrectomy were performed simultaneously. All surgeries were uneventful and no postoperative complications occurred during the entire follow-up period. All patients’ uncorrected visual acuity improved by ≥2 lines postoperatively(Snellen acuity). LogMAR best-corrected visual acuity was improved at 24-month (P = 0.042) and endpoint (P = 0.046) follow-ups. Modulation transfer function cutoff frequency (MTFcutoff) and objective scatter index (OSI) was significantly improved at 12-month (P = 0.025, P = 0.038), 24-month (P = 0.005, P = 0.007) and endpoint (P = 0.005, P = 0.008) follow-ups. Postoperative AXL remained stable during 2–4 year follow-ups (P > 0.05).ConclusionRefractive lens replacement surgery is safe and effective for improving functional vision in eoHM patients presenting with partial cataract. Retinal image quality could provide a useful and objective way to facilitate partial cataract severity evaluation and surgery decision making.

Abstract Background The incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a chronic lung disease of newborns, has been paradoxically rising despite medical advances. Histone deacetylase 3 (Hdac3) has been reported to be a crucial regulator in alveologenesis. Hence, this study aims to investigate the mechanism of Hdac3 in the abnormal pulmonary angiogenesis and alveolarization of BPD. Methods A hyperoxia-induced BPD model of was developed in newborn mice, and primary lung fibroblasts were isolated from adult mice. Hdac3 was knocked out in vivo and knocked down in vitro, while microRNA (miR)-17 was downregulated in vivo and in vitro to clarify their roles in abnormal pulmonary angiogenesis and alveolarization. Mechanistic investigations were performed on the interplay of Hdac3, miR-17-92 cluster, enhancer of zeste homolog 1 (EZH1), p65 and placental growth factor (Pgf). Results Hdac3 was involved in abnormal alveolarization and angiogenesis in BPD mice. Further, the expression of the miR-17-92 cluster in BPD mice was downregulated by Hdac3. miR-17 was found to target EZH1, and Hdac3 rescued the inhibited EZH1 expression by miR-17 in lung fibroblasts. Additionally, EZH1 augmented Pgf expression by recruiting p65 thus enhancing the progression of BPD. Hdac3 augmented the recruitment of p65 in the Pgf promoter region through the miR-17/EZH1 axis, thus enhancing the transcription and expression of Pgf, which elicited abnormal angiogenesis and alveolarization of BPD mice. Conclusions Altogether, the present study revealed that Hdac3 activated the EZH1-p65-Pgf axis through inhibiting miR-17 in the miR-17-92 cluster, leading to accelerated abnormal pulmonary angiogenesis and alveolarization of BPD mice.

Abstract. Background:. In recent years, visual quality has been extensively investigated in various conditions. In this community-based population study, we analyzed the effects of aging, refraction, and Lens Opacification Classification System III (LOCSIII) score on retinal imaging quality in healthy Chinese adults. Methods:. This cross-sectional study was conducted on sub-group subjects from The Handan Eye Study between October 2012 and January 2013. Healthy subjects over 30-years-old with logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) less than 0 were included. Retinal image quality was measured by optical quality analysis system (OQAS) and recorded as modulation transfer function cutoff frequency (MTFcutoff), OQAS value (OV) 100%, OV20%, OV9%, Strehl ratio (SR), and objective scatter index (OSI). The correlation between age, spherical equivalent refraction (SE), LOCSIII score, and optical quality parameters were investigated by multivariate analysis. Results:. Among 1108 verified subjects, 690 subjects (1380 eyes) met the inclusion criteria. Their age ranged from 30 to 76 years, SE ranged from −4.75 to 2.75 D. They were divided into five age groups (30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, and ≥70 years) for further analysis. After multivariate analysis by mixed-effect linear model, SR (t = −3.03, P = 0.002), OV20% (t = −2.39, P = 0.017), and OV9% (t = −3.16, P = 0.001) significantly decreased with the increasing age, whereas logMAR BCVA (t = 4.42, P

Abstract Background Evidence-based practice (EBP) education or training are considered fundamental to building and strengthening an EBP culture, as well as to encouraging evidence-based academic and clinical practice in the nursing community. However, few valid and reliable instruments are available for the assessment of EBP teaching and learning in clinical nurses in China. Translation, reliability, and validity testing of the English Evidence-Based Practice Profile Questionnaire (EBP2Q), which has strong psychometric properties, may encourage evaluation and promote the implementation of EBP in Mainland China. Methods Based on established guidelines for the development of questionnaires, the English EBP2Q was translated and cross-culturally adapted. The Chinese version of the EBP2Q (EBP2Q-C) was validated using a sample of 543 nurses. Structural validity was evaluated through exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, and the questionnaire was tested for convergent and criterion validity. The internal consistency and test-retest reliability were also evaluated. Results The content validity index demonstrated good content validity (≥0.98). An eight-factor structure was obtained in the exploratory factor analysis, and verified by a three-order factor model from the confirmatory factor analysis (χ 2 /df = 2.001; RMSEA = 0.065; SRMR = 0.077; and CFI = 0.884). The Spearman’s rank correlation analysis of the EBP2Q-C with the Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire showed moderate correlations for Practice (0.58) and Confidence (0.68) and a low correlation for Sympathy (0.32). Criterion validity was demonstrated by significant differences in terms of nurses’ highest education, present position, EBP training, involvement in research programs, and level of understanding of English. Both the overall Cronbach’s α and the Cronbach’s α for the domains exceeded 0.70. The intraclass correlation coefficients for the domains ranged between 0.75 and 0.96, indicating satisfactory repeatability. Conclusions Except for the convergent validity of the Sympathy domain, the EBP2Q-C provided evidence of validity and reliability. Therefore, it can be applied in EBP education or training assessment in Mainland China.

Abstract A novel real‐time state monitoring method is proposed to realize the real‐time energy management of the lithium‐ion battery packs, which is conducted in the iterative computational calculation process by introducing an improved weighting factor‐unscented Kalman filtering algorithm. The accurate state monitoring treatment is investigated by applying a new iterate calculation thought, in which the improved weight coefficient parameter is constructed and its numerical stability is improved. Meanwhile, the recursive calculation is derived by using the real‐time measured factors, according to which the state‐of‐charge estimation is realized accurately. Aiming to adapt the complex current variation working conditions, the nonlinear treatment is introduced to construct the mathematical unscented transforming function. As can be known from the experimental results, the state‐of‐charge estimation accuracy is 98.34% under the complex current charge‐discharge working conditions. Meanwhile, the effective closed‐circuit voltage trackage is also investigated accurately and its tracking error is within 3.51% in the complex working conditions, which provides a good security guarantee for the reliable energy supply of the lithium‐ion battery packs.

In the original publication of this article [1], the molecular weight of RBMS3 was incorrectly noted as 38 KDa within Fig 1A, Fig 2A and Fig 2B. The figures have been updated to list the correct molecular weight of RBMS3 as 41 KDa.

Abstract The state of charge (SoC) estimation is the safety management basis of the packing lithium‐ion batteries (LIB), and there is no effective solution yet. An improved splice equivalent modeling method is proposed to describe its working characteristics by using the state‐space description, in which the optimization strategy of the circuit structure is studied by using the aspects of equivalent mode, analog calculation, and component distribution adjustment, revealing the mathematical expression mechanism of different structural characteristics. A novel particle adaptive unscented Kalman filtering algorithm is introduced for the iterative calculation to explore the working state characterization mechanism of the packing LIB, in which the incorporate multiple information is considered and applied. The adaptive regulation is obtained by exploring the feature extraction and optimal representation, according to which the accurate SoC estimation model is constructed. The state of balance evaluation theory is explored, and the multiparameter correction strategy is carried out along with the experimental working characteristic analysis under complex conditions, according to which the optimization method is obtained for the SoC estimation model structure. When the remaining energy varies from 10% to 100%, the tracking voltage error is

Optic neuron injury caused by glaucoma and other factors commonly considered as irreversible. However, some evidences demonstrate considerable neuroplasticity in the nervous system. In this review, we try to illuminate the mechanism of neuroplasticity, and reactivate the “silent” cell and neural transmission visual experience, alternating current stimulation, eye yoga, and anti-stress program, and so on. Predict visual change after intervention using self-organizing maps.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the value of the ultrasound-related scoring system on pregnant patients receiving assisted reproductive technology (IVF/ICSI) and early pregnancy outcome. Materials and methods: This prospective study included 208 pregnant women receiving assisted reproductive technology (IVF/ICSI). The following ultrasound parameters were measured: gestational sac size, the proportion of the embryo and gestational sac (embryo/gestational sac), yolk sac size, and fetal cardiac activity. The above data were assigned according to the ongoing pregnancy rate (up to 14 weeks), and the score increased parallel to the pregnancy rate. All patients were grouped according to their scores. Results: Patients with a score of 4–5 had a low ongoing pregnancy rate of 14.29%, while patients with a score of 6–7 had an ongoing pregnancy rate of 55.56%. Surprisingly, patients with a score of 8–9 had an ongoing pregnancy rate of 97.22%. In addition, it was found that the ongoing pregnancy rate was 100% (36/36) in patients with a score of 9. Conversely, there was no ongoing pregnancy in patients with a score of 4. Conclusion: First, this scoring system is strongly associated with an ongoing pregnancy of over 14 weeks. Second, some reassurance can be given to patients with favorable ultrasound parameters, regardless of maternal age or previous pregnancy loss. Third, it would be meaningless to continue the pregnancy in patients with a score of 4, according to the scoring system. Fourth, patients without cardiac activity and embryos at days 33–35 after embryo transfer should discontinue the pregnancy, while patients with embryos should proceed with the pregnancy. Keywords: Gestational sac, Embryo/gestational sac, Yolk sac, Fetal cardiac activity, Ongoing pregnancy

An electrospinning process is to produce nanofibers from a polymer solution by a high electrostatic force, which is used to eject jets from a Taylor cone formed on a nozzle. When a moving jet approaches to a receptor within few nanometers during the electrospinning process, a Casimir-like attraction is formed, which attracts the jet’s end to the surface of the receptor. Thousands of thousands nanofibers will be attached on the receptor’s surface or attached on each other, as a result a nanofiber membrane is formed. The geometric potential was implemented to explain the nanoscale adhesion, which is greatly affected by the attachment oscillation. Mathematical models are established to describe the attachment oscillation under the Lennard-Jones potential and the geometric potential, respectively, and their amplitude-frequency relationship is elucidated analytically. The present theory gives an alternative explanation of the gecko effect and molecule scale forces. Keywords: Lennard-Jones potential, Van der Waals force, Casimir force, Geometrical potential, Molecule oscillation, Smart adhesion, Parthenocissus tricuspidata, Gecko effect, Macromolecular electrospinning

Abstract Background Metastasis remains the biggest obstacle for breast cancer treatment. Therefore, identification of specific biomarker of metastasis is very necessary. The RNA binding protein 3 (RBMS3) acts as a tumor suppressor in various cancers. Whereas, its role and underlying molecular mechanism in breast cancer is far from elucidated. Methods Quantitative real-time PCR and western blots were carried out to determine the expression of RBMS3 in breast cancer cells and tissues. Transwell and in vivo metastasis assay were conducted to investigate the effects of RBMS3 on migration, invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells. Transcriptome sequencing was applied to screen out the differential gene expression affected by RBMS3. RNA immunoprecipitation assay combined with luciferase reporter assay were performed to explore the direct correlation between RBMS3 and Twist1 mRNA. Results RBMS3 was downregulated in breast cancer and ectopic expression of RBMS3 contributed to inhibition of cell migration, invasion in vitro and lung metastasis in vivo. Furthermore, RBMS3 negatively regulated Twsit1 expression via directly binding to 3′-UTR of Twist1 mRNA, and thereby decreased Twist1-induced expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2). Additionally, Twist1-induced cell migration, invasion and lung metastasis could be reversed by the upregulation of RBMS3. Conclusions In summary, our study revealed a novel mechanism of the RBMS3/Twsit1/MMP2 axis in the regulation of invasion and metastasis of breast cancer, which may become a potential molecular marker for breast cancer treatment.

Tripterygiumwilfordii Hook F (TwHF) is one of the most commonly used and effective traditional Chinese herbal medicines against rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Both Tripterygium Glycoside Tablets (TGT) and Tripterygium wilfordii Tablets (TWT) are the representative TwHF-based agents enrolled into the 2019 edition of Medicine Catalog for National Basic Medical Insurance, Injury Insurance, and Maternity Insurance. However, individual differences in TGT/TWT response across patients usually exist in the process of treating RA, implying that the clinical application of the two agents may not be standardized leading to the ineffective treatment and the risk of side effects. Growing evidence show that the bioactive constituents of TwHF may often have toxicity, the package insert of TGT and TWT may not be described in detail, and the therapeutic windows of the two agents are narrow. Thus, it is an urgent task to develop a standardized clinical practice guideline for TGT and TWT in the treatment of RA. In the current study, a group of clinical experts of traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine in the research field of rheumatism diseases, pharmacists, and methodologists of evidence-based medicine were invited to select the clinical questions, to determine the levels of the evidence and the strength of the recommendations, and to develop the recommendations and good practice points. The guideline is formed based on the combination of clinical research evidence and expert experience (evidence-based, consensus, supplemented by experience). The clinical problems which are supported by clinical evidence may form recommendations, and the clinical problems without clinical evidence may form experts’ suggestions. Both recommendations and experts' suggestions in this guideline summarized the clinical indications, usage, dosage, combined medication, and safety of TGT and TWT against RA systematically and comprehensively, which may offer a professional guidance in the context of the clinical application of the two TwHF-based agents.

Objective This study was performed to analyze the visual outcomes and complications of phacoemulsification using a 3.2-mm transparent corneal incision in eyes with cataract after radial keratotomy (RK). Methods We retrospectively reviewed cases of lens phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation after RK. The main measurement results were postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), endothelial cell density, and complications. Results Overall, 19 eyes of 12 patients with 8 (n = 6), 12 (n = 7), and 16 (n = 6) RK cuts were included in the study. Intraoperative wound dehiscence occurred in two eyes with 16 RK cuts. Successful phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation was performed in all eyes. The mean BCVA at the last follow-up (0.19 ± 0.13 LogMAR) was significantly better than the preoperative BCVA (0.72 ± 0.54 LogMAR). However, there was a significant reduction in the corneal endothelial cell density after surgery (2384.0 ± 833.4/mm 2 vs. 1716.95 ± 906.79/mm 2 ). Conclusions Surgeons should be aware of the risk of wound dehiscence in patients who undergo phacoemulsification after RK. A small transparent corneal incision or scleral tunnel incision is recommended.

The enhanced perturbation method is used to improve a governing equation to a higher order, followed by the classic perturbation method. This paper adopts the basic idea of the method to construct a homotopy equation with a higher order. The results show that this modification of the homotopy perturbation method leads to a very high accuracy of the obtained solution. Its solution process is elucidated by using Duffing oscillator as an example, and the obtained frequency is valid for all amplitudes from an extremely small value to infinity with a maximal error of 3.34%. The main merit of this higher order homotopy perturbation method is that the obtained frequency is valid for the whole solution domain.

Abstract Background PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog gene on chromosome 10), a well-characterized tumor suppressor, is a key regulator of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathway involved in cell survival, metastasis and cell renewal. PTEN expression is closely related to the phenotype, prognosis and drug selection in breast cancer. It is mainly regulated by transcriptional and post-transcriptional modifications. RNA binding motif protein 38 (RBM38), an RNA-binding protein (RBP) and a target of P53 family, plays a crucial role in the regulation of cellular processing, especially in post-transcription regulation and gene transcription. In this study, we investigated a new post-transcription regulation mechanism of PTEN expression by RBM38 in breast cancer. Methods Immunohistochemistry, lentivirus transfections, Western blotting analysis, qRT-PCR and ELISA were used to conduct the relation between RBM38 and PTEN. RNA immunoprecipitation, RNA electrophoretic mobility shift and dual-luciferase reporter assays were employed to identify the direct binding sites of RBM38 with PTEN transcript. Colony formation assay was conducted to confirm the function of PTEN in RBM38-induced growth suppression. Results PTEN expression was positively associated with the expression of RBM38 in breast cancer tissues and breast cancer cells. Moreover, RBM38 stabilized PTEN transcript to enhance PTEN expression via binding to multiple AU/U- rich elements (AREs) in 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of PTEN transcript. Additionally, specific inhibitors of PTEN activity and small interfering (siRNA) of PTEN expression inhibited RBM38-mediated suppression of proliferation, which implied that RBM38 acted as a tumor suppressor partly by enhancing PTEN expression. Conclusion The present study revealed a new PTEN regulating mechanism that PTEN was positively regulated by RBM38 via stabilizing its transcript stability, which in turn alleviated RBM38-mediated growth suppression.

Abstract Evaporative drying (ED) is an alternative technique for long-term preservation of mammalian sperm, which does not require liquid nitrogen or freeze-drying equipment, but offers advantages for storage and shipping at ambient temperature and low cost. However, the development of zygotes generated from these sperms was poor. Here, we demonstrated that the supplementation of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), an endogenous bile acid, during embryo culture improved the developmental competency of embryos derived from in vitro matured pig oocytes injected intracytoplasmically with boar ED spermatozoa by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species, the DNA degradation and fragmentation, and the expression of apoptosis-related gene Bax and Bak, and by increasing the transcription of anti-apoptosis gene Bcl-XL and Bcl-2. Furthermore, TUDCA treatment promoted the blastocyst quality manifested by the total cell numbers and the ratio of inner cell mass. Taken together, our data suggest that evaporative drying would be a potentially useful method for the routine preservation of boar sperm in combination with further optimization of subsequently embryo culture conditions.

Abstract Terminologies of ovary development, by somewhat subjective describing and naming main changes of oocytes, have been criticized for confusing and inconsistency of terms and classifications, and the incurred consequences impede communication among researchers. In the present work, we developed regression between ovary development and three ribosome RNA (rRNA) indexes, namely 5S rRNA percent, 18S rRNA percent, and 5S–18S rRNA ratio, using close relationship between volume percent of primary growth stage oocytes or gonadosomatic index and rRNA content, demonstrating species-specific quantification of ovary development can be established in species with either synchronous and asynchronous oogenesis. This approach may be extended to any species with primary growth oocytes, e.g. anurans and reptiles, to predict maturity stages in females. We further confirmed that 5S rRNA percent and 5S/18S rRNA ratio can serve as markers to distinguish sexes unambiguously. A micro-invasive sampling method may be invented for non-lethal prediction of ovary development and sex because only a small amount of ovary sample (

Abstract Background RNA-binding protein 38 (RBM38) is a member of the RNA recognition motif (RRM) family of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). RBM38 often exerts its function by forming regulatory loops with relevant genes. c-Myc is an oncogenic transcription factor that is upregulated in one-third of breast cancers and involved in many cellular processes in this malignancy. In our previous study, RBM38 was identified as a tumor suppressor in breast cancer. In the present study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the regulation of this tumor suppressor. Methods Lentivirus transfections, Western blotting analysis, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry were employed to study the expression of c-Myc and RBM38. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to investigate the direct relationship between c-Myc protein and the RBM38 gene. RNA immunoprecipitation combined with dual-luciferase reporter assays was conducted to confirm the direct relationship between the RBM38 protein and the c-Myc transcript. Results Knockdown of c-Myc increased RBM38 expression by binding directly to specific DNA sequences (5′-CACGTG-3′), known as the E-box motif, in the promoter region of RBM38 gene. Additionally, RBM38 destabilized the c-Myc transcript by directly targeting AU-rich elements (AREs) in the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR) of c-Myc mRNA to suppress c-Myc expression. Moreover, specific inhibitors of c-Myc transcriptional activity inhibited RBM38-induced suppression of growth, implying that RBM38 acts as a tumor suppressor via a mechanism that depends, at least partially, on the reduction of c-Myc expression in breast cancer. Conclusions RBM38 and c-Myc form a unique mutually antagonistic RBM38-c-Myc loop in breast cancer.

The definition of a nanofiber is discussed, and the history of the development of bubble electrospinning is briefly elucidated, its main properties are emphasized, and the morphology of its products is summarized. A geometrical interpretation of the nanofiber membrane’s adsorption is given as a natural intrinsic property of the geometrical potential of nanoscale structure. Nano-effect, Casimir effect, capillary effect, Earth’s gravity difference, Newton’s gravity, and lotus leaf’s highly selective repulsion property can all be interpreted using the geometrical potential or boundary-induced force.

An improved simple equation to calculate the minority-carrier effective lifetime in photoconductance measurements is proposed by the perturbation method. When the given constraints are satisfied, the given formulation leads to a fast and accurate determination of effective lifetime from the bulk lifetime, surface recombination velocity, the thickness of the wafer, and diffusion coefficient. Keywords: Photoconductance, Lifetime, Recombination, Perturbation method

New supramolecular structures were designed in this work using large-sized polyoxometalates (POMs) and crown-ether-based supramolecular cations selected as building blocks. Two novel supramolecular inorganic–organic hybrids [(3-F-4-MeAnis)([18]crown-6)]2[SMo12O40]•CH3CN (1) and [(4-IAnis)([18]crown-6)]3[PMo12O40]•4CH3CN (2) (3-F-4-MeAnis = 3-fluoro-4-methylanilinium and 4-IAnis = 4-iodoanilinium) were synthesized. Crystals 1 and 2 have been characterized by infrared spectroscopy (IR) and elemental analysis (EA). Based on X-ray diffraction analysis, Crystals 1 and 2 were constructed through noncovalent bonding interactions and belong to different space groups due to the difference of the building blocks used. Supramolecular cations formed due to strong N–H···O hydrogen bonding interactions between the six oxygen atoms of [18]crown-6 molecules and nitrogen atoms of anilinium derivatives. Crystal 1 has two different supramolecular cations with an anti-paralleled arrangement that forms a dimer through weak hydrogen bonding interactions between adjacent [18]crown-6 molecules. Crystal 2 has three independent supramolecular cations that fill large spaces between the [PMo12O40] polyoxoanions forming a rhombus-shape packing arrangement in the ac plane. Crystals 1 and 2 are unstable at room temperature.

OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the role of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) in colorectal carcinogenesis. METHODS: The PubMed, CISCOM, CINAHL, Web of Science, Google Scholar, EBSCO, Cochrane Library, and CBM databases were searched from inception through November 1st, 2013 without language restrictions. Odds ratios (ORs) or standardized mean differences (SMD) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. RESULTS: Fourteen case-control studies met the inclusion criteria for this meta-analysis. A total of 1,209 colorectal cancer (CRC) cases and 1,218 healthy controls were involved in this meta-analysis. Two common polymorphisms (299 A>G and 399 C>T) in the TLR-4 gene, TLR-4 mRNA and protein expression were assessed. Our meta-analysis results revealed that the TLR-4 399 C>T polymorphism might increase the risk of CRC (allele model: OR = 1.77, 95%CI = 1.32 ∼ 2.36, PG polymorphism and CRC risk (all P>0.05). A subgroup analysis by ethnicity suggested that TLR-4 genetic polymorphisms were associated with an increased risk of CRC among Asians (allele model: OR = 1.50, 95%CI = 1.19 ∼ 1.88, P = 0.001; dominant model: OR = 1.49, 95%CI = 1.16 ∼ 1.92, P = 0.002; respectively), but not among Caucasians and Africans (all P>0.05). Furthermore, our results showed that TLR-4 mRNA and protein levels in CRC patients were higher than those in healthy controls (TLR-4 mRNA: SMD = 2.51, 95%CI = 0.98 ∼ 4.05, P = 0.001; TLR-4 protein: OR = 4.75, 95%CI = 1.16 ∼ 19.36, P = 0.030; respectively). CONCLUSION: Our findings provide empirical evidence that TLR-4 may play an important role in colorectal carcinogenesis. Thus, TLR-4 is a promising potential biomarker for the early diagnosis of CRC.

In the title compound, C24H16Cl2N2O3, the three benzene rings are twisted with respect to the central pyrazole ring, making dihedral angles of 71.56 (9) (4-chlorobenzoyloxy), 57.55 (8) (4-chlorobenzoyl) and 39.33 (1)° (phenyl).

The complete molecule of the title compound, C42H36N6O2, is generated by a crystallographic twofold axis with two C atoms of the central phenyl group lying on the axis. In the independent part of the molecule, one amino group is involved in an intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond, and the two adjacent phenyl rings are twisted from the plane of the pyrazolone ring with dihedral angles of 6.82 (3) and 88.32 (6)°. The crystal packing exhibits no classical intermolecular contacts.

The title compound, C18H20O4, was synthesized by a Wittig–Horner reaction of diethyl 3,4-dimethoxybenzylphosphate and 3,5-dimethoxybenzaldehyde. In the crystal, the dihedral angle between the two aromatic rings is 2.47 (12)°. All the methoxy groups are almost coplanar with the aromatic ring to which they are attached [C—C—O—C torsion angles = −2.8 (3), −5.2 (4), −176.3 (2) and −178.0 (2)°].

In the title molecule, C8H11NO2, the r.m.s. deviation of non-H atoms from their best plane is 0.031 Å. Molecules are connected via a pair of N—H...O hydrogen bonds into a centrosymmetric dimer.

The title compound, C10H11N3O2, was synthesized by the reaction of 1H-benzotriazole with ethyl 2-chloroacetate in ethanol. The non-H atoms, excluding the benzotriazol-1-yl group, are almost coplanar (r.m.s. deviation of the non-H atoms = 0.0409 Å). The dihedral angle formed between this plane and the benzotriazole ring is 79.12 (5)° In the crystal, weak intermolecular C—H...N and C—H...O interactions help to consolidate the three-dimensional network.

In the title compound, C9H10ClNO, the non-H atoms, excluding the phenyl group, are almost coplanar (r.m.s. deviation of the non-H atoms = 0.1015 Å). The dihedral angle formed between this plane and the benzene ring is 87.07 (5)°. Weak intermolecular C—H...O interactions help to stabilize the packing.

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C38H37N7O2, contains one half-molecule, situated on a twofold rotational axis, in which one amino group is involved in intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond and the two phenyl rings are twisted from the plane of pyrazolone ring by 26.69 (10) and 79.64 (8)°. The crystal packing exhibits no classical intermolecular contacts.

The non-H atoms of the title compound, C9H13NO2, are almost coplanar (r.m.s. deviation = 0.0358 Å). Weak intermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into zigzag chains along the b axis with graph-set motif C(5). The chains are further linked into a three-dimensional network by C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions.

In the title compound, C17H13ClN2O2·H2O, the dihedral angle between the quinoline ring system and the benzene ring is 13.0 (1)°. An intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond may influence the molecular conformation. In the crystal structure, acetamide molecules are linked to water molecules via intermolecular O—H... N and N—H...O hydrogen bonds and in turn linked into chains along [010] via O—H...O hydrogen bonds.

In the title compound, C16H18N2O2, the molecule adopts an E conformation about the C=N double bond. The dihedral angle between the pyrrole and phenyl rings is 41.55 (8)°. In the crystal structure, pairs of intermolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into centrosymmetric dimers. In the dimer, the two pyrrole rings are almost coplanar and the two phenyl rings are parallel to each other.