Non-intrusive speech quality assessment with attention-based ResNet-BiLSTM

Speech quality is frequently affected by a variety factors in online conferencing applications, such as background noise, reverberation, packet loss and network jitter. In real scenarios, it is impossible to obtain a clean reference signal for evaluating the quality of the conferencing speech. Therefore, an effective non-intrusive speech quality assessment (NISQA) method is necessary. In this paper, we propose a new network framework for NISQA based on ResNet and BiLSTM. ResNet is utilized to extract local features, while BiLSTM is used to integrate representative features with long-term time dependencies and sequential characteristics. Considering that ResNet may result in the loss of context information when applied to the NISQA task, we propose a variant of ResNet which can preserve the time series information of the conferencing speech. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method has a high correlation with the mean opinion score of clean, noisy and processed speech.

Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema secondary to dental extraction: Two case reports

BACKGROUND

Dental extraction is a common operation in oral surgery and is usually accompanied by pain, swelling, and local infection. The application of high-speed air turbines increases the comfort of alveolar surgery and makes it more minimally-invasive. However, high-speed gas can enter the subcutaneous tissue of the face and neck or even the chest and mediastinum, which is a serious iatrogenic complication.

CASE SUMMARY

We describe two cases of severe subcutaneous and mediastinal emphysema caused by high-speed turbine splitting during dental extraction. The first case involved a 34-year-old man who complained of swelling of the face, mild chest tightness, and chest pain after dental extraction. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed a large amount of gas in the neck, chest wall, and mediastinum. The second case involved a 54-year-old woman who complained of swelling and pain of the neck after dental extraction. CT showed a large amount of gas collected in the neck and mediastinum. Both of them used high-speed turbine splitting during dental extraction.

CONCLUSION

High-speed turbine splitting during dental extraction may lead to severe subcutaneous and mediastinal emphysema. Dentists should carefully operate to avoid emphysema. If emphysema occurs, CT can be used to improve the diagnosis. The patient should be informed, and the complications dealt with carefully.

Ethanol supernatant extracts of Gynura procumbens could treat nanodiethylnitrosamine-induced mouse liver cancer by interfering with inflammatory factors for the tumor microenvironment

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr, (Family Asteraceae), which serves as both medicine and food in traditional ethnic medicine, has the effects of diminishing inflammation, relieving cough, reducing blood glucose and lipids levels, mitigating hepatotoxicity, and can be used for liver cancer prevention and treatment.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore how the ethanol extract of Gynura procumbens stems (EEGS) can effectively intervene in the tumor microenvironment, it is necessary to study the mechanism of EEGS on the chemical toxicant nanodiethylnitrosamine (nanoDEN) that induces liver cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

EEGS contains large quantities of caffeoylquinic acid (CAC) and non-caffeoylquinic acid (n-CAC), which can be separated by high-performance liquid chromatography. The liver cancer model that was induced by the chemical toxin, nanoDEN, was used to clarify the effective mechanism for tumor intervention of the EEGS and its active ingredients.

RESULTS

(1) after interventions with the four drugs on liver cancer, the tumor nodules were obviously reduced and inflammation levels improved. (2) The immunohistochemical staining results showed that both the EEGS and its active ingredients could significantly reverse the abnormal changes in inflammation, proliferation, aging and hypoxia-related proteins in mouse liver tissues that were caused by nanoDEN. (3) Real-time PCR results showed that compared with the nanoDEN group, the expression levels of inflammatory, fatty, and fibrosis-related factors in each group after drug intervention were decreased. (4) The transmission electron microscopy measurements showed that the EEGS significantly reversed the nanostructure changes in hepatocytes that were induced by nanoDEN.

CONCLUSION

The EEGS component of Gynura procumbens is effective in preventing and treating liver cancer by interfering with the inflammatory microenvironment during oncogenesis induced by nanoDEN.

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells induce M2 microglia polarization through PDGF-AA/MANF signaling

BACKGROUND

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are capable of shifting the microglia/macrophages phenotype from M1 to M2, contributing to BMSCs-induced brain repair. However, the regulatory mechanism of BMSCs on microglia/macrophages after ischemic stroke is unclear. Recent evidence suggests that mesencephalic astrocyte–derived neurotrophic factor (MANF) and platelet-derived growth factor-AA (PDGF-AA)/MANF signaling regulate M1/M2 macrophage polarization.

AIM

To investigate whether and how MANF or PDGF-AA/MANF signaling influences BMSCs-mediated M2 polarization.

METHODS

We identified the secretion of MANF by BMSCs and developed transgenic BMSCs using a targeting small interfering RNA for knockdown of MANF expression. Using a rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model transplanted by BMSCs and BMSCs–microglia Transwell coculture system, the effect of BMSCs-induced downregulation of MANF expression on the phenotype of microglia/macrophages was tested by Western blot, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and immunofluorescence. Additionally, microglia were transfected with mimics of miR-30a*, which influenced expression of X-box binding protein (XBP) 1, a key transcription factor that synergized with activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) to govern MANF expression. We examined the levels of miR-30a*, ATF6, XBP1, and MANF after PDGF-AA treatment in the activated microglia.

RESULTS

Inhibition of MANF attenuated BMSCs-induced functional recovery and decreased M2 marker production, but increased M1 marker expression in vivo or in vitro. Furthermore, PDGF-AA treatment decreased miR-30a* expression, had no influence on the levels of ATF6, but enhanced expression of both XBP1 and MANF.

CONCLUSION

BMSCs-mediated MANF paracrine signaling, in particular the PDGF-AA/miR-30a*/XBP1/MANF pathway, synergistically mediates BMSCs-induced M2 polarization.

[Establishment and optimization of hepatocyte steatosis model]

Objective: To establish a new model of hepatic steatosis cells by optimizing the original ethanol or high fat, the present study proposed an in vitro hepatocyte steatosis model for the study of fatty liver. Methods: Oil red O staining was used to observe the effects of fetal bovine serum, oleic acid and ethanol on lipid accumulation in human liver cell line L02 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expression levels of PPAR-γ and AP-2, and the suitable conditions for the establishment of hepatocyte steatosis model were screened out. A t-test was used for comparison between the two groups, and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used in more than three groups. Results: Oil red O staining showed the number of reddish-orange lipid droplets in L02 cells gradually increased with the increase of fetal bovine serum, oleic acid and ethanol in a concentration - and time-dependent manner. Compared with 0.00% oleic acid and 2% ethanol, the count value of red particle was 100.00% ± 17.63% at the beginning and after 24 h, 0.003% oleic acid and 2% ethanol jointly acted in L02 cells. After incubation for 48 hours with 2% ethanol and serum-free DMEM medium, the accumulation of lipid droplets was the highest with a count value of 802.38%+71.06%(t = 42.36, P < 0.001). RT-PCR analysis showed the lipid accumulation induced by this method was positively correlated with the mRNA expression of PPAR-γ and AP-2. Conclusion: L02 cells were successfully exposed to high fat and ethanol, and the hepatocyte steatosis model was established and optimized, suggesting that the occurrence of hepatic cell steatosis was related to the up-regulation of PPAR-γ and AP-2.

Absolute thickness measurement of pyrolytic graphite spheroids by STEM-EELS

This paper studies the absolute thickness measurement of pyrolytic graphite spheroids (GSs) by using STEM-EELS mode with log-ratio method and Kramers-Kroning (K-K) method, taking the measured thickness from TEM image as reference that is the diameter of GSs ranging from 60 to 250nm. The effect of collection semi-angle (β) on thickness measurement has been investigated. It is found that in general the thickness obtained by K-K analysis with surface effect corrected shows the best accuracy, followed by K-K sum rule and then log-ratio method for the three different collection semi-angles of 12.4, 17.3 and 21.1mrad applied. Of these angles, the smallest one gives an overestimated result and the largest one gives an underestimated result, whereas between the two, the angle of 17.3mrad that is about 2x convergence semi-angle (9.0mrad) is identified as more appropriate for K-K analysis. The surface-scattering correction, inelastic mean free path of GS and effect of refractive index n on thickness measurement for different β angles are also investigated. Moreover, the optical property deduced from the data collected at the center of graphite spheroid, which is related to its microstructure, is characterized by K-K analysis.

Analysis of immunity index and immunopathogenesis pattern of lupus nephritis patients

Joint detection of anti-dsDNA antibodies, anti-U1RNP, anti-SM antibodies, anti-SSA antibodies, anti-ribosomal P protein antibodies, anti-nucleosome antivodies (Anua), anti-histone antibodies (AHA) and antinuclear antibodies brings to the early diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and speculation of renal lesion degree of lupus nephritis patients in order to choose a specific therapeutic schedule. This paper analyzed the abnormal immunology features and connections of each pathological pattern of LN renal biopsy and probed into the essence in order to provide basis for diagnosis, treatment, pathological pattern speculation and forward assessment of LN. We chose 97 cases, treated them with renal biopsy and pathological pattern classification, analyzed pathological pattern distribution, different pathological patterns and the correlation of immunity index with anti-dsDNA antibodies, anti-U1RNP, anti-Sm antibodies, anti-SSA antibodies, anti-ribosomal P protein antibodies, Anua, AHA and ANA of the first renal biopsy were taken as the experiment index. The results showed that the morbidity of the male was distinctly lower than the female and the age of onset was much lower (P < 0.05); pattern I, pattern II, pattern III, pattern IV, pattern V, and pattern VI accounted for 1.0%, 3.1%, 12.4%, 47.4%,16.5%, 15.5%, 4.1%, 0%,respectively; among all the LN patients, there were respectively 59, 43, 28, 52, 51, 48, 36 and 93 cases in which anti-dsDNA antibody, anti-U1RNP antibody, anti-Sm antibody, anti-SSA antibody, anti-ribosomal P protein antibodies, Anua, AHA and ANA had increased and the positive rate was 60.8%, 44.3%, 28.9%, 53.6%, 52.6%, 49.5%, 37.1% and 95.9%, respectively. In conclusion, pattern IV is the most common of all pathological patterns of LN. Among the immunity index, anti- U1RNP antibodies and anti-SSA antibodies are positively correlated with anti-dsDNA antibodies; Anua is positively correlated with anti-dsDNA antibodies and AHA; anti-dsDNA antibodies, anti U1RNP antibodies, anti-Sm antibodies, anti SSA antibodies, AHA, anti-ribosomal P protein antibodies and ANA have no obvious correlation with LN renal lesions degree; Anua level of serum is positively correlated with LN renal lesions degree.

The prognostic value of P-cadherin in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer

OBJECTIVES

This research aims to specify the prognostic value of P-cadherin on recurrence and progression in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancers (NMIBC).

METHODS

A total of 110 NMIBC cases were collected and P-cadherin protein was assessed by immunohistochemical test in these samples. Correlations between P-cadherin expression and clinicopathologic features were analyzed. For recurrence-free and progression-free survival, Kaplan-Meier log-rank test was used. Then Cox univariate and multivariate analyses were further performed.

RESULTS

P-cadherin high expression correlated with tumor progression (P = 0.031). Kaplan-Meier results showed that patients with high P-cadherin expression had worse progression-free survival (P = 0.034) but not recurrence-free survival (P = 0.133) than low-expression patients. Cox regression results showed P-cadherin expression was an independent predictor for progression (P = 0.042) but not recurrence (P = 0.139) in NMIBC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated that P-cadherin expression correlated with tumor progression and could be taken as an independent predictor for progression in NMIBC.

Energy transmission in a mechanically-linked double-wall structure coupled to an acoustic enclosure

The energy transmission in a mechanically linked double-wall structure into an acoustic enclosure is studied in this paper. Based on a fully coupled vibro-acoustic formulation, focus is put on investigating the effect of the air gap and mechanical links between the two panels on the energy transmission and noise insulation properties of such structures. An approximate formula reflecting the gap effect on the lower-order coupled frequencies of the system is proposed. A criterion, based on the ratio between the aerostatic stiffness of the gap cavity and the stiffness of the link, is proposed to predict the dominant transmitting path, with a view to provide guidelines for the design of appropriate control strategies. Numerical results reveal the existence of three distinct zones, within which energy transmission takes place following different mechanisms and transmitting paths. Corresponding effects on noise insulation properties of the double-wall structure are also investigated.

B7H costimulates clonal expansion of, and cognate destruction of tumor cells by, CD8(+) T lymphocytes in vivo

B7H/B7RP (hereby called B7H) is a new member of the B7 family of costimulatory molecules and interacts with inducible costimulatory molecule (ICOS). Its function for CD8 T cells has not been reported. We report here that expression of B7H on the tumor cells reduced tumorigenicity and induced immunity to subsequent challenge with parental tumor cells. The immune protection correlates with an enhanced cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against P1A, the major tumor antigen expressed in the J558 tumor. To understand the mechanism of immune protection, we adoptively transferred transgenic T cells specific for tumor antigen P1A into mice that bore P1A-expressing tumors. We found that while the transgenic T cells divided faster in mice bearing the B7H(+) tumors, optimal B7H-induced clonal expansion of P1CTL required costimulation by B7-1 and B7-2 on the endogenous host antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Interestingly, when B7H(+) and B7H(-) tumors were coinjected, P1CTL selectively eliminated the B7H(+) tumor cells. Moreover, B7H expressed on the tumor cells made them highly susceptible to destruction by CTL in vivo, even if the CTL was administrated into mice with large tumor burdens. Tumors that recurred in the P1CTL-treated mice lost transfected B7H and/or H-2L(d), the class I molecule that presents the P1A peptide. Taken together, our results reveal that B7H costimulates clonal expansion of, and cognate destruction by CD8(+) T lymphocytes in vivo.

On the site and mode of antigen presentation for the initiation of clonal expansion of CD8 T cells specific for a natural tumor antigen

Because of the low frequency of antigen-specific T cells, early events in the activation of tumor-specific T cells in vivo have not been well characterized. There is still no direct documentation on where the clonal expansion begins and how tumor antigens are presented to the host CD8 T cells to initiate it. Here we used transgenic T cells specific for a natural tumor antigen P1A to evaluate the kinetics, location, and modes of antigen presentation for initiating CTL response in vivo. Our results demonstrate that the initial activation of P1A-specific T cells takes place in the lymphoid organs. The activated T cells then migrate into tumors, where they undergo accelerated division and acquire distinct activation markers. The site of initiation cannot be altered by either local expression of costimulatory molecules or by intratumor injection of naïve T cells. Moreover, using genetic models that allow only one mode of antigen presentation, we show here that both cross-presentation of P1A by the host antigen-presenting cells, and direct antigen presentation and costimulation by the tumor cells are sufficient to initiate rapid T cell-clonal expansion in the lymphoid organ. These results provide direct evidence for two fundamental assumptions on the mechanisms of T-cell activation in vivo.

New chiral catalysts for reduction of ketones

The condensation of o-(diphenylphosphino)benzaldehyde and various chiral diamine gives a series of diimino-diphosphine tetradentate ligands, which are reduced with excess NaBH4 in refluxing ethanol to afford the corresponding diaminodiphosphine ligands in good yield. The reactivity of these ligands toward trans-RuCl2(DMSO)4 and [Rh(COD)Cl]2 had been investigated and a number of chiral Ru(II) and Rh(I) complexes with the PNNP-type ligands were synthesized and characterized by microanalysis and IR, NMR spectroscopic methods. The chiral Ru(II) and Rh(I) complexes have proved to be excellent catalyst precursors for the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of aromatic ketones, leading to optically active alcohols in up to 97% ee.

Preferential proliferation and differentiation of double-positive thymocytes into CD8(+) single-positive thymocytes in a novel cell culture medium

The identification of factors that regulate the proliferation and differentiation of double-positive (DP) into CD4(+) and CD8(+) single-positive (SP) thymocytes has proven difficult due to the inability of DP thymocytes to proliferate, expand, and differentiate into SP thymocytes in available cell culture media. Here we report on the ability of DP thymocytes to differentiate in a novel conditioned medium, termed XLCM, derived from the supernatant of mitogen activated human cord blood mononuclear cells. During a 5-day culture in XLCM in the absence of thymic stromal cells, DP thymocytes from normal mice and MHC double knockout mice (lack SP thymocytes) proliferate, expand, and differentiate into several (alphabetaTCR(+), NK1.1(+)alphabetaTCR(+), and gammadeltaTCR(+)) subsets of CD4(+) and predominantly CD8(+) SP thymocytes. These studies suggest that the use of XLCM may aid in the characterization of factors that regulate the differentiation of DP thymocytes into CD8(+) SP thymocytes.

CD40-deficient dendritic cells producing interleukin-10, but not interleukin-12, induce T-cell hyporesponsiveness in vitro and prevent acute allograft rejection

The induction of an immune response or tolerance is mediated by corresponding subsets of dendritic cells (DC). However, the property of tolerogenic DC is not clear. Recently, we have characterized a population of CD11c+ splenic DC derived from long-term mixed leucocyte culture (LT-MLC), which are able to proliferate upon stimulation and have a strong primary mixed leucocyte reaction (MLR)-stimulating activity in conventional MLR. In this study, we show that, in contrast to the irradiated ones, non-irradiated LT-MLC-derived DC induce polyclonal antigen-specific T-cell hyporesponsiveness when cocultured with allogeneic splenocytes for 3-11 days. The degree of the hyporesponsiveness increased with the length of coculture. Although these DC expressed major histocompatibility complex class II and B7 costimulatory molecules, which are down-regulated during coculture, they expressed very low or undetectable CD40 before and after coculture, respectively. The CD40-deficient DC spontaneously produce interleukin-10 (IL-10), but not IL-12. The skewed balance between IL-10 and IL-12 is associated with their capability to induce T-cell hyporesponsiveness, because a neutralizing antibody to IL-10, exogenous recombinant IL-12 or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) significantly blocked the hyporesponsiveness. Accordingly, infusion of a small number of non-irradiated LT-MLC-derived DC (5x105) significantly prolonged the survival of a vascularized heterotopic murine heart transplant, whereas irradiated DC accelerated graft rejection. These data suggest that CD40-deficient DC producing IL-10, but not IL-12 can induce T-cell hyporesponsiveness in vitro and in vivo.

p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase mediates signal integration of TCR/CD28 costimulation in primary murine T cells

Optimal T cell activation requires two signals, one generated by TCR and another by the CD28 costimulatory receptor. In this study, we investigated the regulation of costimulation-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation in primary mouse T cells. In contrast to that reported for human Jurkat T cells, we found that p38 MAPK, but not Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), is weakly activated upon stimulation with either anti-CD3 or anti-CD28 in murine thymocytes and splenic T cells. However, p38 MAPK is activated strongly and synergistically by either CD3/CD28 coligation or PMA/Ca2+ ionophore stimulation, which mimics TCR-CD3/CD28-mediated signaling. Activation of p38 MAPK correlates closely with the stimulation of T cell proliferation. In contrast, PMA-induced JNK activation is inhibited by Ca2+ ionophore. T cell proliferation and production of IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-gamma induced by both CD3 and CD3/CD28 ligation and the nuclear expression of the c-Jun and ATF-2 proteins are each blocked by the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580. Our findings demonstrate that p38 MAPK 1) plays an important role in signal integration during costimulation of primary mouse T cells, 2) may be involved in the induction of c-Jun activation and augmentation of AP-1 transcriptional activity, and 3) regulates whether T cells enter a state of functional unresponsiveness.

Structure and expression of the mouse AhR nuclear translocator (mArnt) gene

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) nuclear translocator (Arnt) gene has been isolated and characterized from a mouse genomic DNA library. The gene is about 60 kilobases long and split into 22 exons. An unusual exon/intron junctional sequence was found in the 11th intron of the gene that begins with GC at its 5'-end. The exon/intron arrangement of mArnt gene differs greatly from those of the other members of the same basic-helix-loop-helix/PAS family. The gene is TATA-less and has several transcription start sites. The promoter region of the mArnt gene is GC-rich and contains a number of putative regulatory DNA sequences such as two GC-boxes, a cAMP-responsive element, E-box, AP-1 site, and CAAT-box. Deletion experiments revealed that all these DNA elements made substantial contributions to a high level of expression of the gene, except for the cAMP-responsive element. Of all, two GC-boxes displayed the most dominant enhancing effects. It was demonstrated that there exist specific factors binding to these DNA elements in the nuclear extracts of HeLa cells. Among them, Sp1 and Sp3, and CAAT-box binding factor-A were identified to bind the GC-boxes and CAAT-box, respectively. Expression of MyoD in HeLa cells stimulated the Arnt promoter activity by binding to the E-box.

TCR alpha beta chains associate with the plasma membrane independently of CD3 and TCR zeta chains in murine primary T cells

The TCR is a multisubunit complex composed of the clonotypic alpha/beta disulfide-linked heterodimer and noncovalently linked invariant CD3 gamma epsilon and CD3 delta epsilon and TCR zeta chains. Recent studies demonstrate that the surface expression of CD3 components can occur independently of the clonotypic TCR complexes in both thymocytes and splenic T cells. In this study, we report that free noncovalently associated TCR alpha beta heterodimers that exist independently of CD3 and TCR zeta chains are expressed on the cell surface of immature thymocytes and peripheral T cells, but not of T cell lines and T cell hybridomas. This suggests that the regulation of surface expression of TCR alpha beta heterodimers differs between primary T cells and T cell lines or T cell hybridomas. The isolation and biochemical characterization of surface clonotype-independent CD3 complexes and free membrane-associated TCR alpha beta complexes may provide a structural basis for the quantitative difference in amount of T cell proliferation stimulated by anti-CD3 epsilon and anti-TCR beta.

Schistosomiasis: the cleanup continues

During the past 40 years immense progress has been made in the control of schistosomiasis in China. The authors consider how the 100 million people in the country who are still at risk from the disease can be protected.

[Measurement of the three dimensional shape about crown with the digital speckle correlation method]

It is the first step that the data about relative teeth's shape are catched for CAD/CAM system in dental rehabilitation.That is how to measure the teeth's shape.The digtal speckle correlation method are introduced to measure the teeth's shape in the article.For one posterior tooth,we measured the five surfaces that the occlusal surface and the four axial surfaces.According to some special marks,we changed the five group's local data into one coordinate and reconstructed the three dimensional shape of the tooth.At last we drew the graph with the computer.In this paper the author also discussed some factors about the measure system's sensitive and precise and the extent scale.etc.

Generation of dendritic cell-like antigen-presenting cells in long-term mixed leucocyte culture: phenotypic and functional studies

The mechanisms contributing to the proliferation and differentiation of antigen-presenting cell (APC) precursors upon antigen stimulation or tissue injury are poorly understood. Herein, we report the induction of a population of dendritic cell-like cells (DLC) with potent antigen-presentation function from unfractionated spleen cells by means of repetitive allostimulation in long-term mixed leucocyte cultures (LT-MLC). Initially, only a few adherent DLC were observed. By 4-6 weeks, however, there were large numbers of DLC which survived persistently. Features of these DLC are closely related to dendritic cells (DC), including (1) dendritic, veiled or spiny-processed morphology; (2) expression of a wide array of leucocyte surface markers including DC-associated or restricted antigens: 33D1, NLDC-145, CD11c (N418), heat-stable antigen (HSA), CD44, B7-1 and B7-2; (3) ability to migrate to draining lymph nodes and white pulp area of spleen; (4) expression of high level of major histocompatability complex (MHC) class II molecules and (5) more potent mixed leucocyte reaction (MLR)-stimulating capacity than peritoneal macrophages and APC-enriched spleen cells. DLC-stimulated MLR was inhibited by monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to B7-1, B7-2, intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), leucocyte-function associated antigen-1 (LFA-1) or very-late activation antigen-4 (VLA-4) by 30-55%. When maintained for more than 2 months, the DLC did not lose their MLR-stimulating activity, but many surface markers were down-regulated except for Mac-2 and VCAM-1, which remained stable or were up-regulated, respectively. In short-term culture, the addition of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) or interleukin (IL)-2 enhanced proliferation of DLC, while tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and IL-4 did not. IL-4 suppressed not only 'spontaneous', but also GM-CSF-enhanced proliferation, suggesting that cytokines play a differential role in DLC proliferation. These results confirm that professional APC can proliferate in response to repetitive antigen stimulation, and their proliferation is differentially regulated by cytokines. A comparison study of DLC with typical DC is being carried out in our laboratory.

The beta 1 integrin, very late activation antigen-4 on human neutrophils can contribute to neutrophil migration through connective tissue fibroblast barriers

Polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMNL) accumulation in extravascular tissues and inflammatory exudates is dependent on their migration through blood vessel endothelium and then through connective tissue. Previously we utilized a barrier of human synovial and dermal fibroblasts (HSF or HDF) grown on microporous filters, as a model of PMNL migration through connective tissue. Those studies showed that beta 2 (CD18) and the beta 1 integrins, very late activation antigen-5 (VLA-5) and VLA-6, in part mediate this PMNL migration. Here we report that VLA-4, which can also be expressed at low levels on activated PMNL, is also involved in PMNL migration induced by C5a through fibroblast (HSF and HDF) barriers, because monoclonal antibody (mAb) to VLA-4 significantly inhibited (by 20-30%) PMNL migration. Blocking the function of CD18, VLA-5 or VLA-6 was not required for detection of the VLA-4-mediated migration. Combination treatment with mAb to VLA-4 and with mAb to VLA-5 or to VLA-6 further inhibited PMNL migration, irrespective of whether CD11/CD18 mechanisms were blocked with anti-CD18 mAb or not. Treatment of PMNL with a peptide based on the VLA-4-binding domain in the CS-1 fragment of fibronectin, but not a control peptide, inhibited PMNL migration to a comparable extent to treatment with mAb to VLA-4. A low level of VLA-4 was expressed on C5a-activated PMNL, detected by immunofluorescence flow cytometry. These results suggest that VLA-4 can be mobilized by human peripheral blood PMNL and can, in addition to VLA-5, VLA-6 and CD11/CD18 integrins, mediate PMNL migration through connective tissue. This is in marked contrast to PMNL transendothelial migration, where beta 1 integrins appear to play no significant role.

Expression of VCAM-1 and VLA-4 dependent T-lymphocyte adhesion to dermal fibroblasts stimulated with proinflammatory cytokines

In chronic inflammatory conditions, mononuclear cells infiltrate the involved connective tissue and may persist, perhaps because of binding to adhesion molecules on connective tissue cells, as well as extracellular matrix. Here we investigated whether vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) may be induced on human dermal fibroblasts by proinflammatory cytokines. Expression of VCAM-1 was determined by Northern blotting, cell enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry. Only trace amounts of VCAM-1 mRNA or protein were constitutively expressed on dermal fibroblasts but both were rapidly (within 4 hr) upregulated by tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) and somewhat slower (20 hr) by interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). The combination of TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma had at least an additive effect. The adhesion function of the expressed VCAM-1 was examined by studying the adhesion of the Jurkat T lymphocytes to fibroblasts. Adhesion of Jurkat cells to dermal fibroblasts was markedly increased by stimulation of fibroblasts with TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma (22% of cells adhered versus 9% on unstimulated fibroblasts). The increased adhesion was inhibited to that on unstimulated fibroblasts by monoclonal antibody (mAb) to domain 1 of VCAM-1, but not by mAb to domain 4. MAb to very late antigen-4 (VLA-4), the integrin counter-receptor on lymphocytes for VCAM-1, completely inhibited the increase in Jurkat cell adhesion to activated fibroblasts and partly also inhibited basal adhesion to unstimulated fibroblasts. These results suggest that VCAM-1 expression by dermal fibroblasts is inducible at the mRNA, protein and functional levels by proinflammatory cytokines. The VLA-4/VCAM-1 pathway maybe involved in adhesive interactions between T lymphocytes and activated fibroblasts in the skin during chronic dermal inflammatory conditions.

Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18) is the predominant beta 2 (CD18) integrin mediating human neutrophil migration through synovial and dermal fibroblast barriers

Recently we reported that polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMNL) migration in vitro through a barrier of human synovial fibroblasts (HSF) involves both beta 2 (CD18) and beta 1 (CD29) integrins on the PMNL. Here we investigated the role of the beta 2 integrin family members, lymphocyte function-associated (LFA)-1 (alpha L beta 2 or CD11a/CD18) and Mac-1 ( alpha M beta 2 or CD11b/CD18), in PMNL migration through HSF and human dermal fibroblast (HDF) monolayers. Treatment of PMNL with monoclonal antibody (mAb) to LFA-1 (anti-alpha L) did not inhibit PMNL migration through either monolayer in response to C5a. In contrast, mAb to Mac-1 (Cd11b) inhibited (by 30-40%) PMNL migration, and by virtually the same extent as mAb to the beta 1 integrin chain (CD18) (40% inhibition). Addition of mAb to LFA-1 to mAb to Mac-1 did not result in greater inhibition. This was in contrast to PMNL migration through human umbilical vein endothelium (HUVE) monolayers, where mAb to LFA-1 or to Mac-1 each partially inhibited PMNL transendothelial migration, and when these mAbs were combined, synergistic inhibition of migration was observed, reaching 90-95% inhibition. Intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) was not required for Mac-1 mediated migration through HSF or HDF, because treatment of the fibroblasts with mAb R6.5 (F(ab)2) to ICAM-1, which blocks the Mac-1 binding site on ICAM-1, did not inhibit PMNL migration. An LFA-1-ICAM-1 mechanism of PMNL migration through HSF and HDF monolayers could be detected after treatment (4 hr) of the monolayers with TNF-alpha plus IFN-gamma, which upregulated ICAM-1 on the fibroblasts. The results demonstrate the beta 2 integrin dependent PMNL migration in connective tissue may involve primarily Mac-1, with little involvement of LFA-1 or ICAM-1, a situation in marked contrast to PMNL migration across endothelium. However, in inflammatory conditions in which TNF-alpha and/or IFN-gamma may be generated, a role for LFA-1-ICAM-1 may be induced.

Migration of human polymorphonuclear leukocytes through a synovial fibroblast barrier is mediated by both beta 2 (CD11/CD18) integrins and the beta 1 (CD29) integrins VLA-5 and VLA-6

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) accumulate in joint fluid in inflammatory arthritides. We investigated the molecular mechanisms required for PMNL migration through a barrier of human synovial fibroblasts (HSF) grown on microporous filters, as a model of PMNL migration through synovial connective tissue and compared this process with PMNL migration through human dermal fibroblast (HDF) barriers and through human umbilical vein endothelium (HUVE). A small amount of PMNL migration occurred spontaneously only through the synovial fibroblast/filter unit (6-10%). Migration markedly increased through all cell monolayers when the chemotactic factors C5a, IL-8, or zymosan-activated plasma (containing C5adesArg) were added to form a chemotactic gradient. The migration induced by C5a, IL-8, or C5adesArg across HSF was partially inhibited (25-76% depending on stimulus) by mAb to CD18 (beta 2 integrin). The CD18-independent migration induced by IL-8 or C5adesArg was almost completely inhibited by mAbs to beta 1 integrin, but with C5a, inhibition by mAb to beta 1 integrin was only partial (40-50%). Inhibition by mAb to beta 1 integrin required treatment of the PMNL, but not the HSF and was only observed when the function of CD11/CD18 on PMNL was also blocked by a mAb. Treatment of PMNL with mAb to alpha 5 (VLA-5) plus alpha 6 (VLA-6) in combination, was required to inhibit CD18-independent migration through HSF to the degree observed with mAb to beta 1 integrin. There was no qualitative difference in the mechanisms utilized by PMNL for migration through HSF or HDF in response to chemotactic factors. In contrast, PMNL migration across HUVE was almost completely CD18-dependent (85%) with no role for beta 1 integrins. The results suggest that (a) PMNL migration through HSF in response to chemotactic factors utilizes both CD11/CD18 and beta 1 (CD29) integrins; (b) the VLA-5 and VLA-6 members of beta 1 integrins are involved in mediating migration; and (c) PMNL utilize similar mechanisms for migration through HSF and HDF, which are distinct from migration through HUVE.

Polymorphonuclear leucocyte migration through human dermal fibroblast monolayers is dependent on both beta 2-integrin (CD11/CD18) and beta 1-integrin (CD29) mechanisms

Accumulation of leucocytes in inflammation involves their migration through vascular endothelium and then in the connective tissue. We investigated human polymorphonuclear leucocyte (PMNL) migration through a biological barrier of human dermal fibroblasts grown on microporous filters, as a model of PMNL migration in the connective tissue. PMNL did not migrate through a fibroblast monolayer unless a chemotactic factor, e.g. C5a, interleukin-8 (IL-8) or zymosan-activated plasma (ZAP; C5adesArg), was added. This migration was partially inhibited (35-70%, depending on the stimulus) by treatment of PMNL with monoclonal antibody (mAb) to CD18 (beta 2-integrins). Most of the CD18-independent migration was inhibited by mAb to beta 1-integrins (CD29). Inhibition by mAb to beta 1 was observed when the PMNL, but not the fibroblasts, were treated with mAb. The role of beta 1-integrins in PMNL transfibroblast migration was detectable only when the function of the CD11-CD18 complex was blocked, because mAb to beta 1-integrin alone had no significant effect on PMNL migration. Migration induced by C5a was more CD18-independent compared to IL-8 or C5adesArg. The CD18-independent migration was also inhibited by mAb to the beta 1-integrin subunits alpha 5 (of very late antigens-5; VLA-5) and alpha 6 (of VLA-6). Treatment of the fibroblasts (4 hr) with tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) or IL-1 alpha enhanced C5a-induced PMNL transfibroblast migration and increased the proportion of migration utilizing the CD11-CD18 mechanism. However, TNF-alpha treatment had no effect on the degree of beta 1-integrin-dependent migration. These findings suggest that in response to the chemotactic factors C5a, IL-8 and C5adesArg, PMNL migration in the connective tissue is mediated by both CD11-CD18 (beta 2) and beta 1-integrins on the PMNL. The VLA-5 and VLA-6 members of beta 1-integrins are involved in this process. This is in contrast to PMNL migration across endothelium in this system, which is virtually all CD18 dependent with no significant role for beta 1-integrins.

Neutrophils migrate to delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions in joints, but not in skin. Mechanism is leukocyte function-associated antigen-1-/Mac-1-independent

We have previously found that polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) migration to adjuvant arthritic joints of rats was only partially inhibited by mAbs to the adhesion molecules LFA-1 (CD11a/CD18) and Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18), suggesting that there is a CD11/CD18-independent mechanism for PMNL migration to inflamed joints. Adjuvant arthritis in rats is believed to be initiated by a T lymphocyte-dependent immune response and maintained by proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1 and TNF-alpha. Here we studied two types of joint inflammation: that induced by a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction in the joint and that induced by intra-articular (i.a.) injection of cytokines, to explore PMNL migration to inflamed joints and examine the role of CD18. 51Cr-labeled blood PMNL were used to measure PMNL migration in rats to inflammatory reactions in joints and compared with reactions in skin. A large number of PMNL migrated to the carpal and talar joints after i.a. injection of Mycobacterium purified protein derivative in sensitized animals to induce DTH, but there was minimal PMNL migration to this DTH reaction in the skin. This migration to the joints was not inhibited by mAbs to LFA-1 alone or mAbs to LFA-1 plus Mac-1 that almost completely inhibited PMNL accumulation in dermal inflammatory reactions induced by zymosan-activated serum (C5adesArg), endotoxin, IL-1 alpha, or TNF-alpha in the same rats. Intra-articular injection of the cytokines IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha, but not IFN-gamma, induced marked PMNL accumulation in the joints; this was strongly inhibited by the treatment of rats with anti-LFA-1 and anti-Mac-1. Thus, PMNL migrate to DTH induced in joints but not in skin, and this migration is CD18-independent, but migration to i.a. IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha is largely CD18 dependent in both joints and skin. This suggests that both the joint microenvironment and the T cell dependence of the inflammatory reaction in the joint governs the mechanism of PMNL recruitment.

Neutrophils migrate to delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions in joints, but not in skin. Mechanism is leukocyte function-associated antigen-1-/Mac-1-independent

We have previously found that polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) migration to adjuvant arthritic joints of rats was only partially inhibited by mAbs to the adhesion molecules LFA-1 (CD11a/CD18) and Mac-1 (CD11b/CD18), suggesting that there is a CD11/CD18-independent mechanism for PMNL migration to inflamed joints. Adjuvant arthritis in rats is believed to be initiated by a T lymphocyte-dependent immune response and maintained by proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1 and TNF-alpha. Here we studied two types of joint inflammation: that induced by a delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction in the joint and that induced by intra-articular (i.a.) injection of cytokines, to explore PMNL migration to inflamed joints and examine the role of CD18. 51Cr-labeled blood PMNL were used to measure PMNL migration in rats to inflammatory reactions in joints and compared with reactions in skin. A large number of PMNL migrated to the carpal and talar joints after i.a. injection of Mycobacterium purified protein derivative in sensitized animals to induce DTH, but there was minimal PMNL migration to this DTH reaction in the skin. This migration to the joints was not inhibited by mAbs to LFA-1 alone or mAbs to LFA-1 plus Mac-1 that almost completely inhibited PMNL accumulation in dermal inflammatory reactions induced by zymosan-activated serum (C5adesArg), endotoxin, IL-1 alpha, or TNF-alpha in the same rats. Intra-articular injection of the cytokines IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha, but not IFN-gamma, induced marked PMNL accumulation in the joints; this was strongly inhibited by the treatment of rats with anti-LFA-1 and anti-Mac-1. Thus, PMNL migrate to DTH induced in joints but not in skin, and this migration is CD18-independent, but migration to i.a. IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha is largely CD18 dependent in both joints and skin. This suggests that both the joint microenvironment and the T cell dependence of the inflammatory reaction in the joint governs the mechanism of PMNL recruitment.

The effect of ebselen on T-lymphocyte migration to arthritic joints and dermal inflammatory reactions in the rat

We have previously observed that ebselen (PZ 51, 2-Phenyl-1,2-Bensoisoselenazol-3-(2H)-one) can inhibit human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) transendothelial migration in vitro and PMNL migration to arthritic joints and dermal inflammatory reactions in rats. In this study, we investigated the effect of ebselen on T-lymphocyte migration to the inflamed joints in rats with adjuvant arthritis (AA) and to dermal inflammation induced by cytokines (IFN gamma, mTNF alpha), cytokine inducing stimuli (poly I:C and LPS), or a delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction. Treatment of rats with AA with ebselen (100 mg/kg/day) p.o. for three days significantly reduced accumulation of 111In-labelled spleen T-cells (SPLT) in the arthritic joints, including forepaws, carpal joints, hindpaws and talar joints, and in all the above dermal inflammatory reactions. The inhibitory effect of ebselen on SPLT cell accumulation was greater than with indomethacin (2 mg/kg/day) and was observed within 3 h of initiation of ebselen treatment. Ebselen also inhibited SPLT migration to mandibular, axillary and mesenteric lymph nodes, and to the spleen. The results suggest that not only does ebselen inhibit SPLT migration to inflamed joints and to dermal inflammation but it also may inhibit lymphocyte homing and recirculation. Whether these effects of ebselen are related to its reported inhibition of cellular activation and intracellular signalling requires further investigation. However, the inhibition of T-lymphocyte migration reported here and of PMNL migration reported previously may both be beneficial in the treatment of human arthritis.

The effect of ebselen on polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration to joints in rats with adjuvant arthritis

We have previously reported that ebselen (PZ 51,2-Phenyl-1,2- Benzoisoselenazol-3-(2H)-one), a selinyl organic compound with anti-inflammatory properties, inhibited human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) adhesion to and migration through cytokine-activated human umbilical vein endothelium in vitro. Here we investigated the in vivo effect of ebselen on PMNL migration into arthritic joints and dermal inflammation in rats with adjuvant arthritis. The rats were immunized with adjuvant (Mycobacteriaum butyricum in mineral oil) and 13 days later, when arthritis was fully developed, treatment (p.o.) with ebselen, indomethacin or vehicle was initiated. The migration of 51Cr-labelled blood PMNL purified from arthritic donors and extravasation of 125I-labelled HSA in arthritic joints and dermal inflammatory reactions was quantitatively measured. Treatment of rats with 100 mg/kg/day ebselen for 3 days, inhibited by 72-79% the PMNL migration into arthritic joints and tail (spondylitis) and by 50-60% into dermal inflammatory reactions induced with zymosan-activated rat serum (ZAS; C5adesArg), endotoxin (LPS) or IL-1 alpha. The inhibitory effect of ebselen was dose-dependent, because treatment of rats with 100 mg/kg/day ebselen caused significantly more inhibition of PMNL migration than did 30 mg/kg/day, although this dose was still effective. Ebselen inhibited PMNL migration into arthritic joints and dermal inflammation within 3 h of initial oral administration (100 mg/kg). However, ebselen did not suppress plasma albumin extravasation into arthritic joints and dermal inflammatory reactions. Compared to ebselen, treatment with indomethacin (2 mg/kg/day) was significantly less effective in inhibiting PMNL accumulation in joints, but in contrast to ebselen, indomethacin did inhibit plasma albumin extravasation into carpal and talar joints. The results suggest that ebselen effectively and rapidly inhibits PMNL migration in vivo, as also observed in vitro, and that it has anti-inflammatory actions distinct from classic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as indomethacin.

The effect of ebselen on polymorphonuclear leukocyte and lymphocyte migration to inflammatory reactions in rats

Ebselen, a selinyl organic compound with anti-inflammatory properties was found by us previously to inhibit in vitro human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMNL) adhesion to and migration through umbilical vein endothelium monolayers. Here we investigated in rats the effect of ebselen on PMNL and spleen T lymphocyte (SPLT) migration to inflamed joints induced by intra-articular (i.a) injection of recombinant murine tumor necrosis factor alpha (mTNF alpha) and to dermal inflammatory reactions. Inflammation was induced in the carpal and talar joints of rats by intra-articular (i.a.) injection (100 ng) of mTNF alpha once daily for 2 days. Corresponding joints in the opposite limb received diluent. Simultaneously, the rats were treated p.o. with either ebselen (100 mg/kg/day) or indomethacin (2 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for 2 days. Dermal inflammation was induced by intradermal injection (0.05 ml) of inflammatory stimuli. Accumulation of 51Cr-labelled rat blood PMNL, 111In-labeled SPLT, and extravasation of 125I-labelled human serum albumin (HSA) in the joints and in skin sites were measured. Treatment of rats with ebselen inhibited by 33-65% PMNL migration to the mTNF alpha inflamed joints, and to dermal inflammation induced by zymosan activated serum (ZAS; containing C5adesArg), endotoxin (LPS), mIL-1 beta and mTNF alpha. Migration of SPLT to dermal inflammation induced by interferon gamma (IFN gamma), poly-inosine-cytosine (poly I:C) and LPS was also significantly inhibited (22-33%), but SPLT migration into the inflamed joints was not effected by ebselen. Indomethacin treatment of rats also inhibited PMNL migration into the inflamed joints, but unlike ebselen, indomethacin inhibited only ZAS induced dermal PMNL accumulation. In contrast to ebselen, indomethacin inhibited SPLT migration into the inflamed joints as well as to the dermal inflammation induced by poly I:C and a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction (DTH). In addition, treatment of rats with indomethacin significantly inhibited plasma protein (125I-HSA) extravasation in the inflamed joints and the dermal inflammatory reaction induced by ZAS, but ebselen had no such effect. In conclusion, ebselen appears to have a distinct antiinflammatory mechanism of action from indomethacin and the PMNL findings are consistent with a direct inhibitory action on PMNL activation and PMNL transendothelial migration as observed previously in vitro.

Electron microscopic appearance of the chronic Campylobacter jejuni enteritis of mice

Campylobacter jejuni is a major cause of human enteritis which mimics the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this study, microstructural changes on the surfaces of the murine gastrointestinal tract persistently colonized by Campylobacter jejuni, strain GJ-S131, were investigated by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results revealed that the appearance of the gastrointestinal mucosa in both BALB/C and KM mice resembled that in human with inflammatory bowel disease. Under SEM, the mucosa of the jejunum and ileum, with broken or distorted villi had a "worm eaten" look; crypts were irregular in shape and size, and the mucosa showed atrophy, especially in the colon. Epithelial junctions demonstrated furrows, clefts or deep crevasses, with exudates containing a large number of leukocytes. Cytologic appearances were characterized by microvilli dysplasia and/or atrophy, patchy erosions or necrosis and pelade-like appearance due to absence of microvilli, which were similar to the findings under TEM.

[Effects of stimulation of dorso-medial area of nucleus facialis on respiration related units in ventro-lateral region of nucleus tractus solitaris in rabbits]

In urethane-anesthetized, vagotomized and paralyzed rabbits, effects of electrical stimulation of the dorso-medial area of the nucleus facialis (DMNF) on the respiration-related units (RRUs) in ventro-lateral region of nucleus tractus solitaris (VLNTS) were observed. The experimental results showed that during electrical stimulation of DMNF the majority of the inspiratory (I) neurons (64.4%) were increased in frequency and duration of discharge, some to a marked extent. During electrical stimulation of DMNF the expiratory neurons (35%) were decreased in their frequency and duration of discharge, some to a marked extent too. The responses of RRUs in ipsilateral and contralateral VLNTS to stimulation of DMNF was not statistically significant (P greater than 0.05). It is suggested that DMNF may have a facilitating effect on the inspiratory neurons and an inhibiting effect on the expiratory neurons in VLNTS.