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The discovery of high-temperature superconductivity in quasi-one-dimensional spin ladder compound BaFe2S3 has attracted great attention for facilitating study on the interplay among crystalline dimensionality, magnetism, and superconductivity. Here, we report a systematic study on the doping-dependent structure, susceptibility, and high-pressure properties of BaFe2(S1−x Se x )3. The structural analysis manifests a structural transition within the doping level of 0.18 < x< 0.29. Accompanied with this structural transition, the magnetic susceptibility behaviors change substantially, in line with the antiferromagnetic structure change from the stripe-type to the block-type. Furthermore, obvious spin glassy behaviors are observed in the low-temperature region for x⩾ 0.29. High-pressure study has revealed an explicit superconductivity signal in the undoped BaFe2S3 with a pressure of about 12.6 GPa, while no bulk superconductivity is observed for the Se-doped samples. Analysis of the pressure-dependent resistance behavior indicates a pressure-induced electronic phase transition around 18 GPa for all Se-doped samples. Finally, we have discussed the possible origin for the pressure-induced superconductivity in BaFe2(S1−x Se x )3.

This study aimed to investigate the impact of tumor mutational burden (TMB) and DNA damage repair (DDR) gene alteration on overall survival (OS) in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.A DNA library of cancer cells from 67 NSCLC patients in stages III-IV was constructed for next-generation sequencing (NGS). Geneseeq422 probes were used for hybridization enrichment. The target-enriched library was sequenced on HiSeqNGS platforms, and we analyzed the relevant signaling pathways. Then, we correlated the OS of the patients with TMB and DDR mutations.Many significant alterations were found, including in the EGFR, p53, KRAS, RB1, ERBB2, NF1, DNMT3A, ALK, MYC, PIK3CA, ROS1, BRAF, ARID1A, PTEN, CDKN2A, and FGF19 genes. We also identified many mutations in the genes relevant to the DDR pathway. Interestingly, we found that the TMB of patients with DDR gene mutations was dramatically higher than that in the DDR wild-type (WT). Univariable analysis showed that DNMT3A, RB1, DDR pathway-related gene mutations, and TMB were critical factors for the effects on OS. Multivariable analysis confirmed that DNMT3A and mutations in the DDR pathway-related genes were important for predicting OS.Multiple mutations in the genes of the DDR pathway caused higher TMB levels, which resulted in longer OS. By contrast, OS was significantly longer in patients with non-DNMT3A mutations than in those with DNMT3A variants. DNMT3A alteration in NSCLC patients led to poor outcomes.

The aim of this study was to clarify the role of long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOXA-AS2 in influencing the proliferative, migratory and apoptotic abilities of human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HA-VSMCs) by absorbing microRNA-877-3p (miRNA-877-3p).HOXA-AS2 level in HA-VSMCs treated with different doses of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and for different time points was determined by quantitative Real Time-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR). After transfection of si-HOXA-AS2 in HA-VSMCs undergoing ox-LDL treatment, the viability, apoptotic rate and migration of cells were detected, respectively. Meanwhile, the subcellular distribution of HOXA-AS2 was analyzed. The Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay was applied to verify the binding relationship between HOXA-AS2 and miRNA-877-3p. MiRNA-877-3p level in HA-VSMCs treated with different doses of ox-LDL was determined as well. Furthermore, the regulatory effects of HOXA-AS2/miRNA-877-3p axis on cellular behaviors of HA-VSMCs were determined.HOXA-AS2 expression was upregulated by ox-LDL treatment in a time- and dose-dependent manner. After being treated with 100 mg/L ox-LDL for 48 h, the proliferative and migratory abilities of HA-VSMCs were significantly enhanced, while apoptosis was inhibited. Conversely, these changes were reversed by transfection of si-HOXA-AS2. HOXA-AS2 was mainly distributed in the nuclear fraction. Dual-Luciferase reporter gene assay confirmed the direct binding relationship between HOXA-AS2 and miRNA-877-3p. Moreover, miRNA-877-3p was markedly downregulated after transfection of si-HOXA-AS2. MiRNA-877-3p expression decreased gradually with an increased dose of ox-LDL. In addition, knockdown of miRNA-877-3p could reverse the regulatory effects of HOXA-AS2 on proliferative, migratory and apoptotic abilities of HA-VSMCs.HOXA-AS2 is upregulated after HA-VSMCs injury, which accelerates the proliferative and migratory abilities, and inhibits the apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells by absorbing miRNA-877-3p.

High-efficiency flexible solar modules are fabricated with thin-film GaAs solar cells to satisfy the demand for power generation systems of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and stratospheric airships. The polyimide substrate inverted metamorphic triple junction (IMM 3J) GaAs thin-film solar cells are interconnected using the electrically conductive films by low temperature hot press welding technology, and the solidity of welding and efficiency loss ratio of the cells reach the level of rigid GaAs triple junction solar cells used in space now. Two different size solar cells are integrated and encapsulated separately using the thermo-sensitive adhesive supporting films to achieve a good laminating performance. The 0.2 m2 flexible module consisting of unfilled corner cells has the specific power over 750 W/kg (AM0, 1353 W/m2), and the 0.5 m2 flexible module consisting of rectangle cells has higher specific power over 800 W/kg benefit from a higher cell-to-module ratio (CTM). The two modules have an areal density of less than 500 g/m2. Several near space reliability tests have been done to verify that the flexible solar modules could meet the special environment application need.

Insect chitin deacetylases (CDAs) are carbohydrate esterases that catalyze N-deacetylation of chitin to generate chitosan, a process essential for chitin organization and compactness during the formation of extracellular chitinous structure. Here we identified two CDA2 splice variants (LdCDA2a and LdCDA2b) in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. Both splices were abundantly expressed in larval foregut, rectum, and epidermis; their levels peaked immediately before ecdysis within each instar. In vivo results revealed that the two isoforms transcriptionally responded, positively and negatively respectively, to 20-hydroxyecdysone and juvenile hormone signaling pathways. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of the two LdCDA2 variants (hereafter LdCDA2) or LdCDA2b, rather than LdCDA2a, resulted in three negative effects. First, foliage consumption was significantly reduced, larval developing period was lengthened, and larval growth was retarded. Second, chitin contents were reduced, whereas glucose, trehalose, and glycogen contents were increased in the LdCDA2 and LdCDA2b RNAi larvae. Third, approximately 20% of LdCDA2 and LdCDA2b RNAi larvae were trapped within the exuviae and finally died. About 60% of the abnormal pupae died as pharate adults. Around 20% of the RNAi pupae emerged as deformed adults, with small size and wrinkled wings. These adults eventually died within 1 week after molting. Our results reveal that knockdown of CDA2 affects chitin accumulation. Consequently, LdCDA2 may be a potential target for control of L. decemlineata larvae.

Hydroponic-grown seedlings of aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) were used to investigate how low root temperatures (5°C) affect stomatal conductance and water relations. An isohydric manner of the stomatal behaviour was found with the seedlings when their roots were subjected to the low temperature. Stomatal conductance rapidly and dramatically reduced in response to the low root temperature, while the xylem water potential did not significantly alter. Under the low root temperature, pH value of the xylem sap increased from 6.15 to 6.72 within the initial 4 h, while abscisic acid (ABA) concentration increased by the eighth hour of treatment. K+ concentration of the xylem sap significantly decreased within the 8th h and then reversed by the 24th h. The ion change was accompanied by a decrease and then an increase in the electrical conductivity, and an increase and then a decrease in the osmotic potential. The tempo of physiological responses to the low root temperature suggests that the rapid pH change of the xylem sap was the initial factor which triggered stomatal closure in low temperature-treated seedlings, and that the role of the more slowly accumulating ABA was likely to reinforce the stomatal closure. Xylem sap from the seedlings subjected low root temperature affected stomatal aperture on leaf discs when they were floated on the sap solution. The stomatal aperture correlated (P = 0.006) with the changed pattern of [K+] in the sap while the range of pH or ABA found in the xylem sap did not influence stomatal aperture of leaf discs in solution. The effect of xylem sap on stomatal aperture on leaf discs was different from on stomatal conductance in the intact seedlings. Comparison was made with previous study with the soil-grown seedlings.

Quantifiably monitoring sweat rate and volume is important to assess the stress level of individuals and/or prevent dehydration, but despite intense research, a convenient, continuous, and low-cost method to monitor sweat rate and total sweat volume loss remains an un-met need. We present here an ultra-simple wearable sensor capable of measuring sweat rate and volume accurately. The device continuously monitors sweat rate by wicking the produced sweat into hydrogels that measurably swell in their physical geometry. The device has been designed as a simple to fabricate, low-cost, disposable patch. This patch exhibits stable and predictable operation over the maximum variable chemistry expected for sweat (pH 4–9 and salinity 0–100 mM NaCl). Preliminary in vivo testing of the patch has been achieved during aerobic exercise, and the sweat rates measured via the patch accurately follow actual sweat rates.

Background Chemo- and target therapies may induce myocardial dysfunction and lead to poor prognoses. Early detection of minor myocardial dysfunction is important for the prevention of subsequent cardiotoxicity. Cardio-oncology is a multidisciplinary field focusing on managing and preventing cardiovascular complications in cancer patients. However, whether Cardio-oncology program truly makes difference in cardiovascular outcomes remains unknown. Herein, we are sharing our experiences in our Medical Center. Methods Since 2014 till 2017, we recruited 154 patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer preparing for Epirubicin therapy. Echocardiography, biomarkers, six minute walking distance and cardiovascular adverse events including new onset of hypertension, stroke, myocardial infarction (MI) and mortality were recorded at baseline, three months, six months and one year. Any functional decline was reported to oncologists for the consideration of changing regimens. Otherwise, cardiologists would be consulted for cardiovascular educations and therapies. The echocardiographic and clinical records of 450 breast patients receiving Epirubicin therapy during 2010 to 2013 were also collected as comparison. Results Compared with the ratio of 20% patients receiving echocardiography prior to 2014, the ratio increased to 100% since Cardio-Oncology program started. Also, the drop of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) from 25% attenuated to 5%. Before Cardio-Oncology Program, there were 1.7% of new onset hypertension, 0.8% of MI, 0.8% of stroke and 16.8% of mortality. Conversely, after the program, there were only 0.6% of new onset hypertension while no other cardiovascular complications were reported. Furthermore, compared with previous reports of the effectiveness of Cardio-Oncology Program, our result also displayed a superior impact on the cardiovascular outcomes. Conclusions Collectively, through a comprehensive monitoring and an early intervention of myocardial dysfunction post chemotherapies, Cardio-Oncology Program truly decreased the cardiovascular complications in breast cancer patients. Acknowledgement/Funding Chi-Mei Medical Center

Background Heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF) was defined as the typical symptoms of HF with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 41% to 49%. However, till now the progression of LV function and the subsequent prognosis remains largely unknown. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is a novel method to detect the early myocardial dysfunction and has been used to differentiate the outcomes of different phenotypes of cardiovascular diseases. Purpose Herein, we aim to investigate the application of STE in HFmrEF and its predictive values. Methods Retrospectively, we collected the medical records and echocardiography imaging of 250 patients diagnosed as HFmrEF during 2014 to 2018. LV longitudinal strain at diagnosis was evaluated and compared with the changes of LV during the follow-up period. Also, mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including myocardial infarction, heart failure requiring admission were recorded. Results Our result indicated that a reduced LV longitudinal strain at baseline was significantly associated with a subsequent declined LVEF beneath 40%. Also, the lower strain a baseline implied the higher mortality and MACE. Using −12% as the cut-off value LV strain presented the most significant impact on the prognosis compared with the other echocardiographic parameters in the logistic regression Regarding the guideline directed medications, blockers of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system most significantly improved the cardiac remodeling compared with the others. Conclusion STE can predict the subsequent changes of LVEF and the cardiovascular outcomes in patients with HFmrEF.

Cleft lip and/or cleft palate are the most common congenital craniofacial anomalies. Philtral ridge morphology is an important aesthetic component of unilateral cleft lip (UCL) repair. To this end, we have developed two techniques of philtral ridge reconstruction: (1) asymmetric mattress muscle sutures, and (2) overlapping mattress muscle sutures. The objective of this retrospective cohort study was to compare their outcomes in UCL repairs. Group I patients (n=30) underwent UCL repair before August 2003, including philtral ridge reconstruction by asymmetric mattress muscle sutures. Group II patients (n=30) underwent UCL repair after August 2003, including philtral ridge reconstruction by overlapping mattress muscle sutures. Philtral morphology was evaluated by ultrasonographic and three-dimensional photographic measurements, examining cleft side philtral projection and philtral ridge symmetry. These demonstrated that group II patients had better philtral column symmetry and projection on the cleft side when compared to group I. Overlapping mattress muscle sutures produced better philtral morphology in UCL repairs than asymmetric mattress muscle sutures.

Insect chitin deacetylases (CDAs) are carbohydrate esterases that catalyze N-deacetylation of chitin to generate chitosan, a process essential for chitin organization and compactness during the formation of extracellular chitinous structure. Here we identified two CDA2 splice variants (LdCDA2a and LdCDA2b) in Leptinotarsa decemlineata. Both splices were abundantly expressed in larval foregut, rectum, and epidermis; their levels peaked immediately before ecdysis within each instar. In vivo results revealed that the two isoforms transcriptionally responded, positively and negatively respectively, to 20-hydroxyecdysone and juvenile hormone signaling pathways. RNA interference (RNAi)-aided knockdown of the two LdCDA2 variants (hereafter LdCDA2) or LdCDA2b, rather than LdCDA2a, resulted in three negative effects. First, foliage consumption was significantly reduced, larval developing period was lengthened, and larval growth was retarded. Second, chitin contents were reduced, whereas glucose, trehalose, and glycogen contents were increased in the LdCDA2 and LdCDA2b RNAi larvae. Third, approximately 20% of LdCDA2 and LdCDA2b RNAi larvae were trapped within the exuviae and finally died. About 60% of the abnormal pupae died as pharate adults. Around 20% of the RNAi pupae emerged as deformed adults, with small size and wrinkled wings. These adults eventually died within 1 week after molting. Our results reveal that knockdown of CDA2 affects chitin accumulation. Consequently, LdCDA2 may be a potential target for control of L. decemlineata larvae.

Delayed endolymphatic hydrops (DEH) is a disease entity first described by Kamei and named by Schuknecht, defined as profound sensorineural deafness at early stage and after several years started to appear clinical feature of endolymphatic hydrops such as vertigo, aural fullness like Meniere's disease or fluctuating hearing loss in the contralateral ear . DEH can be classified into ipsilateral type, contralateral type and bilateral type. Although DEH has low incident rate, there are many kinds of etiology and audiology and vestibular tests. Up to now, a lot of literatures about etiology, diagnose, clinical manifestation, relevant examination and therapy of DEH were published abroad. In this review, we will make a summary of research status of DEH.

Intensive vegetable cultivation has developed very rapidly in China, and investigation of current soil nutrient problems in vegetable fields and their potential environmental risk is important for local soil nutrient management strategies. Three hundred and sixty-six soil samples were collected from greenhouse vegetable fields, open vegetable fields and rice/wheat rotation fields in southern Jiangsu Province, the most intensive vegetable-producing areas in Yangtze River Delta, China, for the analysis of their soil fertility status. Soil acidification and P enrichment were the main problems identified in this area of vegetable production, with about 20 and 17% of the open and greenhouse vegetable field soils, respectively, being extremely acid with soil pH values below 5.0. In contrast, no soils under rice/wheat rotation fields were as acidic. Percentages of sites with Olsen-P concentrations < 90 mg/kg were 61, 85 and 0% for soils growing greenhouse vegetable, field vegetable and rice/ wheat, respectively. The nitrogen (N) surplus for vegetable fields exceeded 170 kg/ha/crop, and the phosphorus (P) surplus exceeded 40 kg/ha/crop. Thus, current vegetable production leads to potential environmental risks of N and P pollution of nearby aquatic bodies. Insufficient supplementation with potassium fertilizers was found in some vegetable fields. Several ameliorative measures are proposed.

Cochlear implant (CI) is an artificial electronic device which can provide a sense of sound to a patient with severe or profound hearing loss. Pathological changes have been observed after CI surgery, which might influence the effectiveness of the CI procedure. In this review, we divided the postoperative pathological changes of the temporal bone into two categories according to different stages: immediate trauma and delayed side effects. Immediate trauma might arise from traumatic insertion of the electrode during CI surgery, which included trauma at cochleostomy site, lateral wall trauma, basilar membrane injury, osseous lamina fracture and modiolar injury. Delayed side effects arised from the host response against the inserted electrode, which involved a tissue reaction consisting of fibrotic and osseous changes in the cochlea, intracochlear inflammatory response to the electrode, changes in spiral ganglion cells number, pathological changes outside the cochlea and pathological changes after reimplantation. Published data suggested that the effectiveness of the surgery would be affected in many ways by postoperative pathological changes, and individuals with these changes would have an increased risk of the surgical failure. Therefore, subsequent countermeasures need to be taken to reduce the damages.