Photothermal-Controllable Microneedles with Antitumor, Antioxidant, Angiogenic, and Chondrogenic Activities to Sequential Eliminate Tracheal Neoplasm and Reconstruct Tracheal Cartilage

The optimal treatment for tracheal tumors necessitates sequential tumor elimination and tracheal cartilage reconstruction. This study introduces an innovative inorganic nanosheet, MnO2 /PDA@Cu, comprising manganese dioxide (MnO2 ) loaded with copper ions (Cu) through in situ polymerization using polydopamine (PDA) as an intermediary. Additionally, a specialized methacrylic anhydride modified decellularized cartilage matrix (MDC) hydrogel with chondrogenic effects is developed by modifying a decellularized cartilage matrix with methacrylic anhydride. The MnO2 /PDA@Cu nanosheet is encapsulated within MDC-derived microneedles, creating a photothermal-controllable MnO2 /PDA@Cu-MDC microneedle. Effectiveness evaluation involved deep insertion of the MnO2 /PDA@Cu-MDC microneedle into tracheal orthotopic tumor in a murine model. Under 808 nm near-infrared irradiation, facilitated by PDA, the microneedle exhibited rapid overheating, efficiently eliminating tumors. PDA's photothermal effects triggered controlled MnO2 and Cu release. The MnO2 nanosheet acted as a potent inorganic nanoenzyme, scavenging reactive oxygen species for an antioxidant effect, while Cu facilitated angiogenesis. This intervention enhanced blood supply at the tumor excision site, promoting stem cell enrichment and nutrient provision. The MDC hydrogel played a pivotal role in creating a chondrogenic niche, fostering stem cells to secrete cartilaginous matrix. In conclusion, the MnO2 /PDA@Cu-MDC microneedle is a versatile platform with photothermal control, sequentially combining antitumor, antioxidant, pro-angiogenic, and chondrogenic activities to orchestrate precise tracheal tumor eradication and cartilage regeneration.

The Scap-SREBP1-S1P/S2P lipogenesis signal orchestrates the homeostasis and spatiotemporal activation of NF-κB

The nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathway plays essential roles in innate and adaptive immunity, but little is known how NF-κB signaling is compartmentalized and spatiotemporally activated in the cytoplasm. Here, we show that the lipogenesis signal cascade Scap-SREBP1-S1P/S2P orchestrates the homeostasis and spatiotemporal activation of NF-κB. SREBP cleavage-activating protein (Scap) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) form a super complex with inhibitors of NF-κB α (IκBα) to associate NF-κB close to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Upon lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, Scap transports the complex to the Golgi apparatus, where SREBP1 is cleaved by site-1 protease (S1P)/S2P, liberating IκBα for IκB kinase (Ikk)-mediated phosphorylation and subsequent activation of NF-κB. Loss of Scap or inhibition of S1P or S2P diminishes, while SREBP1 deficiency augments, LPS-induced NF-κB activation and subsequent inflammatory responses. Our results reveal the Scap-SREBP1 complex as an additional cytoplasmic checkpoint for NF-κB homeostasis and unveil the Golgi apparatus as the optimal cellular platform for NF-κB activation, providing insights into the crosstalk between lipogenesis signaling and immunity.

Engineered Bacterial Outer Membrane Vesicles with Lipidated Heterologous Antigen as an Adjuvant-Free Vaccine Platform for Streptococcus suis

Bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are considered a promising vaccine platform for their high built-in adjuvanticity and ability to efficiently induce immune responses. OMVs can be engineered with heterologous antigens based on genetic engineering strategies. However, several critical issues should still be validated, including optimal exposure to the OMV surface, increased production of foreign antigens, nontoxicity, and induction of powerful immune protection. In this study, engineered OMVs with the lipoprotein transport machinery (Lpp) were designed to present SaoA antigen as a vaccine platform against Streptococcus suis. The results suggest that Lpp-SaoA fusions can be delivered on the OMV surface and do not have significant toxicity. Moreover, they can be engineered as lipoprotein and significantly accumulated in OMVs at high levels, thus accounting for nearly 10% of total OMV proteins. Immunization with OMVs containing Lpp-SaoA fusion antigen induced strong specific antibody responses and high levels of cytokines, as well as a balanced Th1/Th2 immune response. Furthermore, the decorated OMV vaccination significantly enhanced microbial clearance in a mouse infection model. It was found that antiserum against lipidated OMVs significantly promoted the opsonophagocytic uptake of S. suis in RAW246.7 macrophages. Lastly, OMVs engineered with Lpp-SaoA induced 100% protection against a challenge with 8× the 50% lethal dose (LD50) of S. suis serotype 2 and 80% protection against a challenge with 16× the LD50 in mice. Altogether, the results of this study provide a promising versatile strategy for the engineering of OMVs and suggest that Lpp-based OMVs may be a universal adjuvant-free vaccine platform for important pathogens. IMPORTANCE Bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) have become a promising vaccine platform due to their excellent built-in adjuvanticity properties. However, the location and amount of the expression of the heterologous antigen in the OMVs delivered by the genetic engineering strategies should be optimized. In this study, we exploited the lipoprotein transport pathway to engineer OMVs with heterologous antigen. Not only did lapidated heterologous antigen accumulate in the engineered OMV compartment at high levels, but also it was engineered to be delivered on the OMV surface, thus leading to the optimal activation of antigen-specific B cells and T cells. Immunization with engineered OMVs induced a strong antigen-specific antibodies in mice and conferred 100% protection against S. suis challenge. In general, the data of this study provide a versatile strategy for the engineering of OMVs and suggest that OMVs engineered with lipidated heterologous antigens may be a vaccine platform for significant pathogens.

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells suppress ozone-mediated airway inflammation in a mouse model of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

OBJECTIVE AND DESIGN

Ozone exposure is an important risk factor for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) which is a global public health concern. Until now, there is no effective approach to reverse airflow limitation and accelerated loss of lung function completely. Here, we delineate the efficacy of mouse allogeneic adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (mASCs) in the treatment of COPD mice by intratracheal and intravenous administration.

METHODS

In this study, we established ozone-exposed COPD model in mice and were administered intratracheally or intravenously with mASCs which were extracted, cultured, and identified in vitro.

RESULTS

We observed that exposure to ozone resulted in a marked lung neutrophilia with high levels of inflammatory cell counts, enhanced expression of cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α, reduced expression of IL-10, lung function and airspace enlargement. mASCs intratracheal administration rescured the lung neutrophilia, lung function and emphysema-like phenotype. Similar results were observed in mice with mASCs intravenous administration. But the altered levels of serum cytokines in mice with mASCs intratracheal administration appears more robust than those in mice with mASCs intravenous administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, these data indicate that intratracheal administration of mASCs appears more effective in treating ozone-induced COPD compared to intravenous administration of mASCs, although the two approaches can be comparable in safety. mASCs are expected to become a new potential intervention strategy for COPD.

[Differential diagnosis of gallbladder polypoid lesions by micro-flow imaging]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the value of micro-flow imaging (MFI) in evaluating blood flow characteristics and differential diagnosis of gallbladder polypoid lesions.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data and ultrasound images of 73 patients with gallbladder polypoid lesions, including 24 patients with pathologically confirmed neoplastic polyps (n=24) and 49 with non-neoplastic polyps (n=49). All the patients underwent conventional ultrasound, MFI and contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) before cholecystectomy. The blood flow characteristics of the lesions in color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) and MFI were compared, and the consistency of the findings by these two modalities with those of CEUS were evaluated by weighted Kappa consistency test. The diagnostic performance of MFI for gallbladder polypoid lesions was assessed.

RESULTS

There were significant differences between MFI and CDFI in the evaluation of blood flow characteristics of gallbladder polypoid lesions (χ²=37.684, P < 0.001). MFI showed better performance than CDFI in displaying the blood flow characteristics of the polyps. The consistency in the findings was 0.118 between CDFI and CEUS and 0.816 between MFI and CEUS. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of MFI in distinguishing neoplastic polyps from non-neoplastic polyps were 75.00%, 93.88% and 87.67%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

MFI has a good consistency with CEUS in displaying the blood flow characteristics of gallbladder polypoid lesions and can accurately distinguish neoplastic polyps from non-neoplastic polyps, thus providing new ultrasound diagnostic evidence to support clinical decisions on optimal treatments of gallbladder polypoid lesions.

[Carotid intraplaque neovascularization is correlated with the risk of revascularization following percutaneous coronary intervention]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation of intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) detected by carotid contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) with revascularization in patients following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

This study was conducted among 105 patients who were followed up for more than 12 months after PCI. All the patients received CEUS examination for assessment of carotid plaque formation and IPN, which were compared between patients with revascularization (REV group, n=27) and those without revascularization (N-REV group, n=78). ROC curve was used to analyze the diagnostic efficacy of CEUS for predicting revascularization. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors associated with revascularization.

RESULTS

In the REV group, the IPN score was 0 in 1 (3.7%) patient, 1 in 8 (29.6%) patients, 2 in 15 (55.6%) patients and 3 in 3 (11.1%) patients. Significant differences were noted between REV and N-REV groups in plaque length (15.70±6.93 vs 12.10±6.64, P < 0.05), maximum plaque thickness (3.69±1.12 vs 3.14±1.18, P < 0.05) and IPN (1.74±0.71 vs 0.87±0.63, P < 0.001). IPN score was identified as an independent risk factor for revascularization in patients following PCI, and at the cutoff value of 1.5, its sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for predicting the occurrence of revascularization were 74%, 89%, 69%, and 91%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.848 (95% CI: 0.703-0.905, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

CEUS allows noninvasive and semi-quantitative assessment of neovascularization in carotid artery plaques, and IPN detected by CEUS is correlated with the risk of revascularization in patients following PCI.

A Spontaneous H2-Aa Point Mutation Impairs MHC II Synthesis and CD4+ T-Cell Development in Mice

Major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) is an essential immune regulatory molecule that plays an important role in antigen presentation and T-cell development. Abnormal MHC II expression can lead to immunodeficiency, clinically termed as type II bare lymphocyte syndrome (BLS), which usually results from mutations in the MHC II transactivator (CIITA) and other coactivators. Here, we present a new paradigm for MHC II deficiency in mice that involves a spontaneous point mutation on H2-Aa. A significantly reduced population of CD4⁺ T cells was observed in mice obtained from the long-term homozygous breeding of autophagy-related gene microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 β (Map1lc3b, Lc3b) knockout mice; this phenotype was not attributed to the original knocked-out gene. MHC II expression was generally reduced, together with a marked deficiency of H2-Aa in the immune cells of these mice. Using cDNA and DNA sequencing, a spontaneous H2-Aa point mutation that led to false pre-mRNA splicing, deletion of eight bases in the mRNA, and protein frameshift was identified in these mice. These findings led to the discovery of a new type of spontaneous MHC II deficiency and provided a new paradigm to explain type II BLS in mice.

The role of TolA, TolB, and TolR in cell morphology, OMVs production, and virulence of Salmonella Choleraesuis

The Tol–Pal system of Gram-negative bacteria is necessary for maintaining outer membrane integrity. It is a multiprotein complex of five envelope proteins, TolQ, TolR, TolA, TolB, and Pal. These proteins were first investigated in E. coli, and subsequently been identified in many other bacterial genera. However, the function of the Tol–Pal system in Salmonella Choleraesuis pathogenesis is still unclear. Here, we reported the role of three of these proteins in the phenotype and biology of S. Choleraesuis. We found that mutations in tolA, tolB, and tolR caused severe damage to the cell wall, which was supported by observing the microstructure of spherical forms, long chains, flagella defects, and membrane blebbing. We confirmed that all the mutants significantly decreased S. Choleraesuis survival when exposed to sodium deoxycholate and exhibited a high sensitivity to vancomycin, which may be explained by the disruption of envelope integrity. In addition, tolA, tolB, and tolR mutants displayed attenuated virulence in a mouse infection model. This could be interpreted as a series of defective phenotypes in the mutants, such as severe defects in envelope integrity, growth, and motility. Further investigation showed that all the genes participate in outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) biogenesis. Interestingly, immunization with OMVs from ΔtolB efficiently enhanced murine viability in contrast to OMVs from the wild-type S. Choleraesuis, suggesting its potential use in vaccination strategies. Collectively, this study provides an insight into the biological role of the S. Choleraesuis Tol–Pal system.

The biological role of MutT in the pathogenesis of the zoonotic pathogen Streptococcus suis serotype 2

Streptococcus suis (S. suis) is an important rising pathogen that causes serious diseases in humans and pigs. Although some putative virulence factors of S. suis have been identified, its pathogenic mechanisms are largely unclear. Here, we identified a putative virulence-associated factor MutT, which is unique to S. suis serotype 2 (SS2) virulent strains. To investigate the biological roles of MutT in the SS2 virulent strain ZY05719, the mutT knockout mutant (ΔmutT) was generated and used to explore the phenotypic and virulent variations between the parental and ΔmutT strains. We found that the mutT mutation significantly inhibited cell growth ability, shortened the chain length, and displayed a high susceptibility to H2O2-induced oxidative stress. Moreover, this study revealed that MutT induced the adhesion and invasion of SS2 to host cells. Deletion of mutT increased microbial clearance in host tissues of the infected mice. Sequence alignment results suggested that mutT was encoded in a strain-specific manner, in which the detection was strongly linked to bacterial pathogenicity. In both zebrafish and mice infection models, the virulence of ΔmutT was largely reduced compared with that of ZY05719. Overall, this study provides compelling evidence that MutT is indispensable for the virulence of SS2 and highlights the biological role of MutT in bacteria pathogenesis during infection.

OmpC, a novel factor H-binding surface protein, is dispensable for the adherence and virulence of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium utilizes a series of strategies to evade host innate immune defenses, including the serum complement system. Many microbial pathogens have evolved the ability to bind the complement regulatory protein factor H (FH) through their surface factor H-binding proteins (FHBPs) to circumvent the complement-mediated bactericidal effect. However, the roles of FHBPs in Salmonella pathogenesis are not well understood. In this study, we demonstrated that the survival of S. Typhimurium in human serum was decreased in a time and concentration dependent manner. Pre-incubation with FH attenuated the sensitivity of S. Typhimurium strain χ3761 to complement-mediated serum killing, suggesting FH binding enhance survival in serum. We aimed to identify novel S. Typhimurium FHBPs and characterize their biological functions. Here, six potential FHBPs were identified by two-dimensional (2D)-Far-western blot, and three of them were further confirmed to bind FH by Far-western blot and dot blot. We found that deletion of ompC (ΔompC) significantly inhibited the survival of S. Typhimurium strain χ3761 in human serum. Our results indicated that the ompC mutation does not affect χ3761 adhesion to HeLa cells. Furthermore, a mice infection model showed that deletion of ompC had no significant effect on the histopathological lesions or viability compared with the wild-type strain χ3761. In summary, these results suggested that OmpC is an important FHBP, but not a critical virulence factor of S. Typhimurium.

The expanded effects of sevoflurane on the nervous system: the harmful effect of residual concentration of sevoflurane on the respiratory system through neurogenic inflammation

Background

Neurogenic inflammation caused by sevoflurane may not only limite to the nervous system, but also expand to the respiratory system. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression changes of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), neurokinin A (NKA), neurokinin B (NKB), calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP) in 14, 21 and 42-day-old rats after inhaling 0.4% sevoflurane, in order to evaluate whether the residual sevoflurane be harmful to the respiratory system through neurogenic inflammation.

Methods

The anesthetic inhalation device was designed to allow 14, 21 and 42-day-old rats inhale 0.4% sevoflurane, while rats in the control group inhaled 40% O2 for 1h. Rats in the antagonist group inhaled 0.4% sevoflurane or 40% O2 for 1 h after Capsazepine (CPZ) pretreatment. The expression of TRPV1 in lung tissue was detected by western blot, and the expression of NKA, NKB, CGRP and SP in trachea was detected by immunohistochemistry.

Results

After inhaling 0.4% sevoflurane, the expression of TRPV1 in lung tissue of 14 and 21-day-old rats was significantly higher than that of the control group, as well as increased the expression of CGRP and SP in the trachea of 14-day-old rats and NKA, NKB, CGRP and SP in the trachea of 21-day-old rats. CPZ pretreatment could antagonize these effects.

Conclusion

Residual sevoflurane during resuscitation of inhalation anesthesia could induce neurogenic inflammation by activating TRPV1, which damaged to the developing respiratory system, but has no significant effect on the respiratory system in adulthood.

Variations of microbial community in Aconitum carmichaeli Debx. rhizosphere soilin a short-term continuous cropping system

Aconitum carmichaeli Debx. (Ranunculaceae) is a potential source of an important herbal drug named "Fuzi", which is derived from the lateral root of the plant. Increased therapeutic usage resulted in the great demand for artificial cultivation of A. carmichaeli, however, the obstacles caused by continuous cropping is a serious problem. Continuous cropping has shown to affect the soil biological and non-biological factors. The current study attempted to discover the variations of microbial communities and soil properties in short-term continuous cropping of A. carmichaeli. An experimental procedure with A. carmichaeli planted two years continuously was established. The variation of the soil microbial community, disease incidence, soil properties, and the correlation between soil microbe and disease incidence were investigated. The disease incidence increased during the continuous cropping of A. carmichaeli. The PCoA and LefSe results indicated that fungal communities in rhizosphere soil were altered during the short-term continuous croppingand the bacterial community was disturbed by the cultivation of A. carmichaeli, however, in the following two years of continuous cropping period, the soil bacterial community has not changed obviously. Proportions of some fungal and bacterial genera were varied significantly (p < 0.05), and some genera of microflora showed a significant correlation with adisease incidence of A. carmichaeli. Microorganisms contributing to community composition discrepancy were also elucidated. Continuous cropping of A. carmichaeli disturbed the rhizosphere soil microbial community and altered the soil chemical parameters and soil pH. These variations in soil may be related to the occurrence of plant diseases. The current study will not only provide theoretical and experimental evidence for the A. carmichaeli continuous cropping obstacles but will also contribute to A. carmichaeli agricultural production and soil improvement.

Hsa-miR-10a-5p promotes pancreatic cancer growth by BDNF/SEMA4C pathway

This article aims to explore the expression and mechanism of miR-10a-5p in pancreatic cancer. MiR-10a-5p mimic, MiR-10a-5p inhibitor and negative control were transfected into human pancreatic cancer cell line SW1990. Real-time quantitative PCR technology was used to analyze the expression level of miR-10a-5p in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells. The proliferation, invasion and apoptosis of SW1990 cells in each group were detected by CCK-8 analysis, Transwell analysis, TUNEL method and flow cytometry. Targetscan7.2 was used to predict the target protein of MiR-10a-5p, and the expression of related proteins was detected by Western blot analysis. The results showed that the expression of miR- 10a-5p in cancer tissues of patients with pancreatic cancer was significantly higher than that in adjacent tissues (P <0.05). The expression of miR-10a-5p in cancer cells increased significantly, which could promote the proliferation and invasion of SW1990 cells and inhibit apoptosis (P <0.05). Overexpression of miR-10a-5p can regulate the expression of BDNF and SEMA4C. miR-10a-5p can promote the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer by regulating the BDNF / SEMA4C pathway, and may become a molecular target for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer in the future.

Effects of inhalation of sevoflurane at different concentrations on TRPV1 in airways of rats at different developmental stages

Aim Determine changes in the expressions of the ion channel-TRPV1-and neuropeptides-NKA, NKB, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), and SP-in 14-, 21-, and 42-day-old rats after inhaling 1.5% and 2.6% sevoflurane.

MAIN METHODS

A small in-house inhalation anesthesia chamber was designed to allow 14-, 21-, and 42-day-old rats inhale 1.5% and 2.6% sevoflurane, and rats in the control group inhaled carrier gas(1 L/min air +1 L/min O₂). In addition, 14- and 21-day-old rats were pretreated with capsazepine, followed by inhalation of 1.5% and 2.6% sevoflurane or the carrier gas. The expression of TRPV1 in lung tissues was detected by Western blotting, whereas the expressions of NKA, NKB, CGRP, and SP in the trachea were detected by immunohistochemistry.

KEY FINDINGS

After inhalation of 1.5% sevoflurane, the expression of TRPV1 in the lung tissues of 14- and 21-day-old rats was significantly increased compared with that in the control group, which was antagonized by capsazepine pretreatment. Moreover, inhalation of 1.5% sevoflurane markedly increased the expressions of NKA, NKB, CGRP, and SP in the trachea of 21-day-old rats and of NKB, CGRP, and SP in the trachea of 14-day-old rats. The expressions of these molecules were antagonized by capsazepine pretreatment. Conversely, inhalation of 2.6% sevoflurane decreased the expressions of NKA and NKB in the trachea of 42-day-old rats.

SIGNIFICANCE

Sevoflurane did not upregulate the expression of TRPV1 in the airways of late-developing rats. This anesthetic may have a two-way effect on airways, resulting in considerable effects in pediatric clinical anesthesia management.

[Update in immune regulatory dysfunction of dendritic cells in sepsis]

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. Further development of sepsis usually leads to septic shock or even death. Many previous studies have focused on the abnormal reactions of monocytes/macrophages, neutrophils, complement system, or cytokine inflammation in sepsis. Many evidences in recent years suggest that dendritic cells, as the most powerful antigen-presenting cells in innate immune system of body, play important role during the process of immune disorders of sepsis. In this article, I review the main classification, immune function, monitoring method, regulatory pathways of dendritic cells and their clinical significance in immune disorders of sepsis, so as to find new strategies for immune regulation of sepsis.

The relationship between plasma homocysteine levels and MTHFR gene variation, age, and sex in Northeast China

Background

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is the risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke. However, the impacts on the genetic variation of methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) on plasma homocysteine levels in the Northeast Chinese population have not been studied. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the relationship between HHcy and MTHFR gene variation, and whether it was influenced by age and sex of the population in Northeast China.

Materials and Methods

A total of 466 subjects were randomly enrolled in this study. According to the homocysteine levels (Hcy ≥ 15 μmol/L) of the subjects, they were divided into hyperhomocysteine (HHcy = 206) and normal homocysteine (Hcy = 260). Polymerase chain reaction/high-resolution dissolution curve and homocysteine determination kit methods were used for genotype testing and homocysteine detection, respectively.

Results

High plasma homocysteine levels are associated with MTHFR 677T and 1298A [P < 0.00, odds ratio (confidence interval) = 1.842 (1.418-2.394) >1], which is related to increasing age (P_range = 0.0005-0.0161), with the homocysteine levels of males higher than females (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

High plasma homocysteine levels were linked to the MTHFR gene mutation. In addition, plasma homocysteine levels increased significantly with age with male's homocysteine levels higher than that of females.

The effects of neutralizing anti-murine interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody on ozone-induced inflammation and glucocorticoids insensitivity in a murine model of asthma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Exposure to ozone contributed to the worsening of inflammation and glucocorticoids insensitivity in OVA-challenged asthma. Interleukin-17A participates centrally in stages of the inflammatory response and glucocorticoids insensitivity. In this study, the effect of neutralizing anti-murine interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody (IL-17A mAb) on inflammation and glucocorticoids insensitivity in ozone-exposed and ovalbumin (OVA)-challenged mice was investigated.

METHODS

Mice were sensitized and challenged with OVA and then exposed to ozone. Dexamethasone (Dex) and IL-17A mAb were administrated in corresponding periods.

RESULTS

Compared with OVA-challenged mice, combination administration of ozone exposure and OVA challenge increased the recruitment of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, enhanced the inflammation scores and levels of inflammatory cytokines and IL-17A mRNA, and caused the activation of p38 MAPK together with down regulation of glucocorticoids recepters (GR) in lung tissue. Monotherapy of IL-17A mAb partially attenuated lung inflammation in OVA-challenged and ozone-exposed mice, while the combination treatment of Dex and IL-17A mAb effectively reduced lung inflammation, inactivated p38 MAPK and up regulated GR in lung tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Ozone exposure worsened OVA-challenged airway inflammation, activation of p38 MAPK and down regulation of GR in OVA-sensitized and -challenged mice, which was effectively counteracted by IL-17A mAb, and combination treatment of IL-17A mAb and Dex shows profound efficacy in inhibiting airway inflammation and improving glucocorticoids insensitivity synergistically.

IL-17A Monoclonal Antibody Partly Reverses the Glucocorticoids Insensitivity in Mice Exposed to Ozonec

Exposure to ozone has been associated with airway inflammation and glucocorticoid insensitivity. This study aimed to observe the capacity of anti-murine interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody (IL-17mAb) to reverse ozone-induced glucocorticoid insensitivity and to detect its effects with glucocorticoids in protecting against airway inflammation. After C57/BL6 mice were exposed to ozone (2.5 ppm; 3 h) for 12 times over 6 weeks, PBS, IL-17mAb (50 ug/ml), dexamethasone (2 mg/kg), and combination administration of IL-17mAb (50 ug/ml) and dexamethasone (2 mg/kg) were intraperitoneally injected into mice at a dose of 0.1 ml, respectively, for 10 times over 5 weeks. At sacrifice, lung histology, airway inflammatory cells, levels of related cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and serum were analyzed, airway inflammatory cell infiltration density and mean linear intercept (Lm) were measured, the expression of IL-17A mRNA, glucocorticoid receptors (GR), NF-κB, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation were determined. We found that combination administration markedly reduced ozone-induced total inflammatory cells, especially neutrophils; inhibited levels of cytokines, including IL-8, IL-17A, and TNF-α in BALF; and suppressed airway inflammatory cell infiltration density and Lm. Additionally, combination administration significantly elevated levels of IFN-γ in BALF, decreased the dexamethasone-induced increase of IL-17A mRNA, and increased the expression of GR and decrement of NF-κB and p38MAPK phosphorylation, which are also related to glucocorticoids insensitivity. Collectively, combination administration shows profound efficacy in inhibiting certain cytokines, and IL-17 mAb partly improved the glucocorticoids insensitivity via modulating the enhanced production rate and improving expression of IL-17A induced by glucocorticoids administration and p38MAPK, NF-κB signaling pathway.

A thiocyanopalladation/carbocyclization transformation identified through enzymatic screening: stereocontrolled tandem C-SCN and C-C bond formation

Herein we describe a formal thiocyanopalladation/carbocyclization transformation and its parametrization and optimization using a new elevated temperature plate-based version of our visual colorimetric enzymatic screening method for reaction discovery. The carbocyclization step leads to C-SCN bond formation in tandem with C-C bond construction and is highly stereoselective, showing nearly absolute 1,2-anti-stereoinduction (5 examples) for substrates bearing allylic substitution, and nearly absolute 1,3-syn-stereoinduction (16 examples) for substrates bearing propargylic substitution. Based upon these high levels of stereoinduction, the dependence of the 1,2-stereoinduction upon cyclization substrate geometry, and the generally high preference for the transoid vinyl thiocyanate alkene geometry, a mechanistic model is proposed, involving (i) Pd(ii)-enyne coordination, (ii) thiocyanopalladation, (iii) migratory insertion and (iv) β-elimination. Examples of transition metal-mediated C-SCN bond formation that proceed smoothly on unactivated substrates and allow for preservation of the SCN moiety are lacking. Yet, the thiocyanate functionality is of great value for biophysical chemistry (vibrational Stark effect) and medicinal chemistry (S,N-heterocycle construction). The title transformation accommodates C-, O-, N- and S-bridged substrates (6 examples), thereby providing the corresponding carbocyclic or heterocyclic scaffolds. The reaction is also shown to be compatible with a significant range of substituents, varying in steric and electronic demand, including a wide range of substituted aromatics, fused bicyclic and heterocyclic systems, and even biaryl systems. Combination of this new transformation with asymmetric allylation and Grubbs ring-closing metathesis provides for a streamlined enantio- and diastereoselective entry into the oxabicyclo[3.2.1]octyl core of the natural products massarilactone and annuionone A, as also evidenced by low temperature X-ray crystal structure determination. Utilizing this bicyclic scaffold, we demonstrate the versatility of the thiocyanate moiety for structural diversification post-cyclization. Thus, the bridging vinyl thiocyanate moiety is smoothly elaborated into a range of derivative functionalities utilizing transformations that cleave the S-CN bond, add the elements of RS-CN across a π-system and exploit the SCN moiety as a cycloaddition partner (7 diverse examples). Among the new functionalities thereby generated are thiotetrazole and sulfonyl tetrazole heterocycles that serve as carboxylate and phosphate surrogates, respectively, highlighting the potential of this approach for future applications in medicinal chemistry or chemical biology.

Inhalation of progesterone inhibits chronic airway inflammation of mice exposed to ozone

Chronic ozone exposure leads to a model of mice with lung inflammation, emphysema and oxidative stress. Progesterone plays an important role in attenuating the neuroinflammation. We assume that progesterone will reduce the chronic airway inflammation exposed to ozone and evaluate whether combination of progesterone with glucocorticoids results in synergistic effects. C57/BL6 mice were exposed to ozone (2.5ppm, 3h) 12 times over 6 weeks, and were administered with progesterone (0.03 or 0.3mg/L; inhaled) alone or combined with budesonide (BUD) (0.2g/L) after each exposure until the tenth week. Mice were studied 24h after final exposure, cells and inflammatory mediators were assessed in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lungs used for evaluation of glucocorticoids receptors (GR), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation and nuclear transcription factor κB (NF-κB) activation. Exposure to ozone resulted in a marked lung neutrophilia. Moreover, in ozone-exposed group, the levels of oxidative stress-related interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, activated NF-κB and p38MAPK, airway inflammatory cells infiltration density, mean linear intercept (Lm) were greatly increased, FEV₂₅ and glucocorticoids receptors (GR) were markedly decreased. Comparable to BUD, progesterone treatment dose-dependently led to a significant reduction of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17A, activated NF-κB and p38MAPK, and an increase of FEV₂₅ and GR. Progesterone combined with BUD resulted in dramatic changes, compared to monotherapy of BUD or progesterone. Therefore, these results demonstrate that chronic ozone exposure has profound airway inflammatory effects counteracted by progesterone and progesterone acts synergistically with glucocorticoids in attenuating the airway inflammation dose-dependently.

Cordycepin inhibits airway remodeling in a rat model of chronic asthma

The potential suppression role of cordycepin (Cor) on airway remodeling in a rat model of chronic asthma was investigated in this paper. We evaluated the anti-remodeling of Cor (50mg/kg) combined with or without budesonide (BUD) and investigated the possible underlying molecular mechanisms. We found that Cor attenuated immunoglobulin (Ig) E, alleviated the airway wall thickness, and decreased eosinophils and neutrophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Notably, Cor reduced the up-regulation of IL-5, IL-13 and TNF-α in the BALF. Cor also regulated the increase of A_2AARmRNA and the decrease of TGF-β₁ expression. Furthermore, Cor markedly blocked p38MAPK signaling pathway activation in the OVA-driven asthmatic mice. The combination treatment of Cor and BUD showed profound efficacy in regulating the levels of inflammatory cells and the expression of IL-13, TGF-β₁ and A_2AARmRNA. Collectively, this study demonstrated that Cor combined with glucocorticoids treatment shows synergistically profound efficacy in inhibiting airway remodeling, and some benefits of Cor may result from the increased A_2AARmRNA expression, the reduced TGF-β₁ levels and the inhibition of Th2-cytokines through the suppression of the p38MAPK signaling pathways.

Role of neutralizing anti-murine interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody on chronic ozone-induced airway inflammation in mice

Exposure to ozone has led to airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness, which potential mechanisms relate to ozone-induced oxidative stress. IL-17 is a growing target for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. The aim of the study was to examine the inhibitory effects of anti-murine interleukin-17A monoclonal antibody (IL-17mAb) on adverse effects of ozone which are noted above. After C57/BL6 mice were exposed to ozone (2.5ppm; 3h) for 12 times over 6 weeks, IL-17mAb, PBS was intraperitoneally injected into mice 1h after ozone or air exposure for 6 weeks and mice were studied 24h after final exposure, monitoring bronchial responsiveness, airway inflammatory cells, lung histology, levels of neutrophil-related chemokine and proinflammatory cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and serum, the expression of IL-17A mRNA and protein, glucocorticoid receptors (GR), and the phosphorylation of p38MAPK in lung tissues. The administration of IL-17mAb reduced the ozone-induced increases in total cells, especially neutrophils; decreased levels of cytokines, including IL-8 in BAL fluid, IL-8 and IL-17A in serum; mitigated the severity of airway hyperresponsiveness; attenuated lung inflammation scores and histologic analysis confirmed the suppression of lung inflammation, compared with the administration of a control PBS. Exposure to ozone results in increases in IL-17A production rate, mRNA and protein levels of IL-17A and the protein level of GR. These effects were halted and reversed by IL-17mAb treatment. Furthermore, IL-17mAb also reduced the phosphorylation of p38MAPK. Therefore, we conclude that IL-17mAb may be a useful therapy in ozone-related diseases, including COPD.

Abstract P3-01-13: Risk factors of non-sentinel lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients with metastatic sentinel lymph node

Objective To study the factors influencing the non-sentinel lymph node(NSLN) status and to assess Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) nomogram performance in predicting SLN metastases in a sentinel lymph node(SLN) positive Chinese breast cancer population. Methods Data were collected from breast cancer patients who were diagnosed with pathological positive sentinel lymph node and received further axillary lymph node dissection(ALND) in Shanghai Ruijin Hospital from January 2011 to August 2014. Use MSKCC nomogram to calculate each patient's NSLN metastasis risk score. The receiver operator characteristic curve(ROC curve)and the area under the ROC curve(AUC)was used to assess the predictive accuracy of the model. Results Among the 1147 patients who received sentinel biopsy in our center, 150 SLN positive patients who received ALND were enrolled in this study. By univariate analysis, multifocal breast cancer (P = 0.017), SLN+/SLN ratio (P = 0.010) and axillary lymphadenopathy displayed by ultrasound(P = 0.005) are the influencing factors of NSLN metastases. By multivariate analysis, multifocal breast cancer (OR 7.25, 95% CI 1.73∼30.43, P = 0.007), SLN+/SLN ratio≥0.5 (OR 2.564, 95% CI 1.22∼5.39, P = 0.013) and axillary lymphadenopathy displayed by ultrasound (OR 2.471, 95% CI 1.18∼5.19, P = 0.017) are the independent influencing factors of NSLN metastases. The AUC of MSKCC nomogram in this population is 0.677. Conclusion For breast cancer patients with positive sentinel lymph node, multifocality, SLN+/SLN ratio and axillary lymphadenopathy displayed by ultrasound is related to NSLN metastasis. MSKCC has low accuracy in predicting NSLN status of this population.

Citation Format: Huang J, Chen X, Shen K, Li Y, Chen W, He J, Zhu L, Huang O, Zong Y, Fei X, Jin X. Risk factors of non-sentinel lymph node metastasis in breast cancer patients with metastatic sentinel lymph node. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P3-01-13.

The role of middle calyx puncture in percutaneous nephrolithotomy: relative factors and choice considerations

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a well established procedure for management of renal calculi. It is generally believed that the access to the renal pelvic system via the desired calyx is the most crucial step during the whole procedure. The adequacy of the access directly influences the success and complication rates of PCNL. Traditionally, a lower pole access was routinely performed for less complication. Upper calices are also preferred for access in a given condition with large and complex calculi. However, the middle calices access is seldom selected. In aim to provide the reader some advantages of middle pole approach and a broaden horizon in determining the strategy of renal puncture, the present review describes the anatomical basis of the percutaneous tract. It provides a literature review of the success rate and efficiency of middle calyx access alone with the advantage of this approach, especially in dealing with large and complex stones.

Abstract P6-06-57: Progesterone receptor status and Ki-67 index may predict early relapse in luminal B/HER2 negative breast cancer patients

Purpose

Few studies has documented early relapse in luminalB/HER2-negative breast cancer. We examined prognostic factors for early relapse among these patients to improve treatment decision-making.

Patients and Methods

A total 398 patients with luminalB/HER2-negative breast cancer were included. Kaplan-Meier curves were applied to estimate disease-free survival (DFS) and Cox regression to identify prognostic factors.

Results

Absence of progesterone receptor (PR) expression was associated with higher tumor grade (p&lt; .001) and Ki-67 index (p = .010). PR-absent patients received more chemotherapy than the PR-present group (p = .009). After a median follow-up of 2 years, 17 patients (4.3%) had early relapses and 6 patients (1.5%) had died. The 2-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 97.2% in the PR-present and 88.6% in the PR-absent groups (Log-rank p = .004). Also, patients with a high Ki-67 index (defined as &gt;30%) had a reduced DFS when compared with low Ki-67 index group (≤30%) (97.6% vs 91.3%, respectively, Log-rank p = .025). In multivariate analysis, PR absence was significantly associated with a reduced DFS (HR = 4.031, 95% CI 1.293-12.574, p = .016).

Conclusion

PR absence was a prognostic factor for early relapse in luminal B/HER2-negative breast cancer, while a high Ki-67 index suggested a higher risk of early relapse.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P6-06-57.

Valosin-containing protein regulates the proteasome-mediated degradation of DNA-PKcs in glioma cells

DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) has an important role in the repair of DNA damage and regulates the radiation sensitivity of glioblastoma cells. The VCP (valosine-containing protein), a chaperone protein that regulates ubiquitin-dependent protein degradation, is phosphorylated by DNA-PK and recruited to DNA double-strand break sites to regulate DNA damage repair. However, it is not clear whether VCP is involved in DNA-PKcs (DNA-PK catalytic subunit) degradation or whether it regulates the radiosensitivity of glioblastoma. Our data demonstrated that DNA-PKcs was ubiquitinated and bound to VCP. VCP knockdown resulted in the accumulation of the DNA-PKcs protein in glioblastoma cells, and the proteasome inhibitor MG132 synergised this increase. As expected, this increase promoted the efficiency of DNA repair in several glioblastoma cell lines; in turn, this enhanced activity decreased the radiation sensitivity and prolonged the survival fraction of glioblastoma cells in vitro. Moreover, the VCP knockdown in glioblastoma cells reduced the survival time of the xenografted mice with radiation treatment relative to the control xenografted glioblastoma mice. In addition, the VCP protein was also downregulated in ∼25% of GBM tissues from patients (WHO, grade IV astrocytoma), and the VCP protein level was correlated with patient survival (R²=0.5222, P<0.05). These findings demonstrated that VCP regulates DNA-PKcs degradation and increases the sensitivity of GBM cells to radiation.

Family quality of life of Chinese families of children with intellectual disabilities

BACKGROUND

The concepts of quality of life and family quality of life (FQOL) are increasingly being studied in the field of intellectual disabilities (ID) in China as important frameworks for: (1) assessing families' need for supports and services; (2) guiding organisational and service delivery system changes; and (3) evaluating quality family outcomes. The present study focused on exploring the perceptions of Chinese families who have a child with an ID regarding FQOL as well as examining the factor structure of FQOL concept from Chinese families.

METHODS

The Chinese version of the Family Quality of Life Scale was used to survey Chinese families living in the urban and suburban areas of Beijing who have a child with ID. A total of 442 families participated in this study. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the factor structure of FQOL. Multivariate analysis was also used to examine group differences among families in terms of family demographic variables.

RESULTS

A five-factor structure of the FQOL construct was found in the Chinese sample, suggesting a similar factor structure found from US families in the literature. Different living conditions (e.g. housing and transportation) tended to affect significantly families' satisfaction ratings of their FQOL. It is also found that family income and severity of disability of the child are predictors of families' satisfaction ratings of FQOL.

CONCLUSION

The preliminary findings of this study suggest a cross-cultural factor structure comparability of FQOL between samples in the USA and China. Results call for further examination of the family-centred service and support as a mediator on the interactive relationship between family characteristics, family needs and FQOL outcomes.

Serine/threonine protein phosphatase 6 modulates the radiation sensitivity of glioblastoma

Increasing the sensitivity of glioblastoma cells to radiation is a promising approach to improve survival in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). This study aims to determine if serine/threonine phosphatase (protein phosphatase 6 (PP6)) is a molecular target for GBM radiosensitization treatment. The GBM orthotopic xenograft mice model was used in this study. Our data demonstrated that the protein level of PP6 catalytic subunit (PP6c) was upregulated in the GBM tissue from about 50% patients compared with the surrounding tissue or control tissue. Both the in vitro survival fraction of GBM cells and the patient survival time were highly correlated or inversely correlated with PP6c expression (R²=0.755 and −0.707, respectively). We also found that siRNA knockdown of PP6c reduced DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK) activity in three different GBM cell lines, increasing their sensitivity to radiation. In the orthotopic mice model, the overexpression of PP6c in GBM U87 cells attenuated the effect of radiation treatment, and reduced the survival time of mice compared with the control mice, while the PP6c knocking-down improved the effect of radiation treatment, and increased the survival time of mice. These findings demonstrate that PP6 regulates the sensitivity of GBM cells to radiation, and suggest small molecules disrupting or inhibiting PP6 association with DNA-PK is a potential radiosensitizer for GBM.

[Effect of regulation of Y-box protein 1 by RNA interference on the doxorubicin induced mdr1 gene expression in K562 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of YB-1 on the transcription of induced mdr1 gene expression in K562 cells.

METHODS

K562 cells were treated with doxorubicin (DOX) at different concentrations and times. Expression of mdr1 and YB-1 genes was examined by RT-PCR and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) by flow cytometry. Cyto/nuclear protein was extracted for YB-1 detection by Western blotting. The expression of YB-1 gene in K562 cells was inhibited by YB-1 gene specific RNA interference (RNAi), then the expression of mdr1 and P-gp in YB-1 gene silenced cells treated with DOX was detected.

RESULTS

The mdr1 gene as well as its corresponding protein P-gp was highly expressed in DOX exposed K562 cells. DOX up-regulated the expression of YB-1 gene, and promoted YB-1 protein nuclear translocation. On YB-1 gene silenced, the expressions of mdr1 gene and P-gp were obviously down-regulated in DOX treated K562 cells.

CONCLUSION

Doxorubicin can induce the expression of mdr1 gene in K562 cells, which may result from the transcription of mdr1 gene by activated YB-1.

[Alteration of methylation status of fragile histidine triad gene promoter in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To study the methylation status of fragile histidine triad (FHIT) gene promoter in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and its clinical relevance.

METHODS

Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) was used to detect FHIT promoter methylation in bone marrow samples from 54 MDS cases.

RESULTS

Hypermethylation of FHIT promoter was detected in 26 cases (48.1%). Association was not found between FHIT gene hypermethylation and sex, hematologic parameters and chromosomal abnormalities of MDS patients, but found between FHIT gene hypermethylation and age of the MDS cases. Although significant difference was not observed in the frequencies of FHIT gene hypermethylation among patients with refractory anemia/refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (RA/RAS) (1/6, 16.7%), refractory anemia/refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (RCMD) and refractory cytopenia with multilineage dysplasia with ringed blasts (RCMD-RS) (6/19, 31.6%), refractory anemia with excess blasts-1 (RAEB-1) (7/11, 63.6%), refractory anemia with excess blasts-2 (RAEB-2) (4/7, 57.1%) and refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation/acute myeloid leukemia (RAEBt/AML) (8/11, 72.7%)(chi-square=8.417, P=0.077), it was observed in patients in early stages (RA/RAS and RCMD) (7/25, 28.0%), advanced stages (RAEB-1 and RAEB-2)(11/18, 61.1%) and RAEBt/AML (8/11, 72.7%) (chi-square=7.938, P=0.019). Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the frequency of FHIT gene hypermethylation and different IPSS groups (chi-square=10.110, P=0.018).

CONCLUSION

FHIT gene hypermethylation might be one of the molecular events involved in the disease progression of MDS.

[Experimental study on the role of VEGF autocrine loop in K562 leukemia cells]

OBJECTIVE

lo investigate the effects of anti-VEGF antibody and anti-VEGF hairpin ribozyme gene on the proliferation, apoptosis and related gene expression of the leukemia K562 cells and the possible molecular mechanisms.

METHODS

K562 cells were cultured in different concentrations of anti-VEGF antibody. The recombinant eukaryotic expression plasmid (pcDNA3-RZ) containing anti-VEGF hairpin ribozyme gene and the vector-alone were introduced into K562 cells by lipofectamine mediation. Cell proliferative capacity was determined by MTT, colony formation assay and cells cycles analysis. Cell apoptosis was assayed by DNA ladder and Annexin V -FITC/PI flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The anti-VEGF antibody was able to inhibit growth and induce apoptosis of K562 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Exposure to anti-VEGF antibody at 0. 165 microg/ml for 72 hours, the cells exhibited typical DNA ladders. The apoptosis rate peaked at antibody concentration of 0. 825 microg/ml. RT-PCR showed a decrease of MRP and TOPO II expression but a relative constant expression of GST. The introduction of exogenous anti-VEGF ribozyme gene resulted in a decrease of the proliferative capacity and colony forming efficiency from (30.5 +/- 3.3) % in control group to (16.3 +/- 2.8) % in K562/RZ group, higher G1 and lower S ratio in cell cycle distribution in comparison with the control groups. Typical DNA fragmentation and higher Annexin V + ratio occurred in K562/RZ cells after treated with 0.5 micromot/L of As2O3 for 3 days, the apoptosis rate increased from 13.4% in control group to 31. 5% in As2O3 treated group.

CONCLUSION

Anti-VEGF antibody can inhibit growth, induce apoptosis and down-regulate the expression of MRP, TOPO II genes of K562 cells in vitro. Transfection with anti-VEGF ribozyme gene can inhibit the proliferation of the cells by delaying the progression G1 into S phase in cell cycles and induce cell apoptosis by down-regulating VEGF gene expression.

[CD36 expression in leukemia cells checked with multi-parameter flow cytometry and its significance]

The aim of study was to investigate the expression of CD36 in leukemia cells and to explore its significance in diagnosis and differential diagnosis for leukemia in patients. Blood samples from 133 cases of leukemias were analyzed by CD45/SSC double parameters and multi-color flow cytometry in order to determine the CD36 and other leukocyte differentiation antigens. The results show that the CD36 positive rate was 21.8% (29/133) in 133 cases of leukemia, 41.9% (26/62) in 62 cases of AML (acute myeloid leukemia), and none of the 54 cases of lymphocytic leukemia was positive for this antigen. The positive rate of CD36 in M(4) (8/10), M(5) (12/12) and M(6) (3/3) was significantly higher than that in M(1) (0/9), M(2) (3/12), M(3) (0/16) (all P < 0.001). The percent of positive cells of CD36 in M(5a) was significantly higher than in M(5b) (P = 0.001). A significantly negative regression was found between CD36 and CD117 in AML (r = -0.751, P = 0.005). And a significantly positive regression was found between CD36 and CD14 in M(4) and M(5b) (r = 0.870, P = 0.011). In monocyte lineage involved leukemia (MLIL), the positive rate of CD36 (92.6%, 25/27) was significantly higher than that of CD14 (48.1%, 13/27)(P = 0.001). None of the 7 cases with M(5a) was positive for CD14, but 4 of 5 cases of M(5b) were positive. The positive rate of CD117 in M(5a) was significantly higher than that of in M(5b)(P = 0.01). The positive rate of CD34 in M(5) was low (33.3%, 4/12). It is concluded that the combination of CD36 with lymphoid and myeloid antigens is helpful to the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of lymphoid, myeloid and MLIL. The positive rate of CD36 is higher than that of CD14 in MLIL.

Measurement of the Neutron Lifetime by Counting Trapped Protons

We measured the neutron decay lifetime by counting in-beam neutron decay recoil protons trapped in a quasi-Penning trap. The absolute neutron beam fluence was measured by capture in a thin (6)LiF foil detector with known efficiency. The combination of these measurements gives the neutron lifetime: τ n = (886.8 ± 1.2 ± 3.2) s, where the first (second) uncertainty is statistical (systematic) in nature. This is the most precise neutron lifetime determination to date using an in-beam method.

Measurement of the neutron lifetime using a proton trap

We report a new measurement of the neutron decay lifetime by the absolute counting of in-beam neutrons and their decay protons. Protons were confined in a quasi-Penning trap and counted with a silicon detector. The neutron beam fluence was measured by capture in a thin 6LiF foil detector with known absolute efficiency. The combination of these simultaneous measurements gives the neutron lifetime: tau(n)=(886.8+/-1.2[stat]+/-3.2[syst]) s. The systematic uncertainty is dominated by uncertainties in the mass of the 6LiF deposit and the 6Li(n,t) cross section. This is the most precise measurement of the neutron lifetime to date using an in-beam method.

[A new compression method for ECG data]

Due to the regularity of activity of the heart and similarity among each period of ECG signal, there is high correlation between DCT coefficients of every two frames of ECG data. Using this characteristic, we present a compression method for ECG data in this paper, by which we can get a higher compression ratio(CR) than the compression method just via DCT does.