Background As an uncommon presentation, occult primary breast cancer remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in clinical practice. This study aimed to retrospectively assess the feasibility of breast magnetic r...Background As an uncommon presentation, occult primary breast cancer remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in clinical practice. This study aimed to retrospectively assess the feasibility of breast magnetic resonance imaging （MRI） in patients with malignant axillary lymphadenopathy and unknown primary malignancy, and correlation with histopathological characteristics. Methods A total of 35 women with occult breast carcinoma were evaluated with dynamic contrast-enhanced breast MRI. Whole seriate section was used in all cases. MRI performance was assessed and correlated with histopathological findings. Results Twenty-one of 35 patients were found to have primary breast carcinoma histologically. Twenty of the 21 patients had abnormal MR findings and 1 patient had a normal MRI study. Of the remaining 14 patients, 10 were negative on both MRI and surgery. Four had suspicious enhancement on MRI and no corresponding tumor was found. Lesions with mass enhancement were found in 55% （11/20） and ductual and segmental enhancement in 45%. The average diameter of the primary tumors was 15 mm. Invasive ductal carcinomas were found in 81% （17/21）. One of 17 invasive ductual carcinomas was too small to be graded. Fourteen of the remaining 16 were classified as grade II and 2 as grade I Thirty-two of the 35 patients had received estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 examinations and the 12 of 32 were triple-negative breast carcinoma. Conclusions Mass lesions with small size and lesions with ductal or segment enhancement are common MRI features in patients with occult breast cancer. The dominant types of primary tumors are invasive ductal carcinoma with moderate histopathological grade. The rate of triple-negative breast carcinoma may be higher in occult breast cancer.展开更多
Membrane technology is becoming more important for CO,_ separation from natural gas in the new era due to its process simplicity, relative ease of operation and control, compact, and easy to scale up as compared with ...Membrane technology is becoming more important for CO,_ separation from natural gas in the new era due to its process simplicity, relative ease of operation and control, compact, and easy to scale up as compared with conventional processes. Conventional processes such as absorption and adsorption for CO2 separation from natural gas are generally more energy demanding and costly for both operation and maintenance. Polymeric membranes are the current commercial membranes used for CO2 separation from natural gas. However, polymeric membranes possess drawbacks such as low permeability and selectivity, plasticization at high temperatures, as well as insufficient thermal and chemical stability. The shortcomings of commercial polymeric membranes have motivated researchers to opt for other alternatives, especially inorganic membranes due to their higher thermal stability, good chemical resistance to solvents, high mechanical strength and long lifetime. Surface modifications can be utilized in inorganic membranes to further enhance the selectivity, permeability or catalytic activities of the membrane. This paper is to provide a comprehensive review on gas separation, comparing membrane technology with other conventional methods of recovering CO2 from natural gas, challenges of current commercial polymeric membranes and inorganic membranes for CO2 removal and membrane surface modification for improved selectivity.展开更多
AIM： To cost-effectively express the 23-ku pE2, the most promising subunit vaccine encoded by the E2 fragment comprising of the 3＇-portion of hepatitis E virus （HEV） open reading frame 2 （ORF2） in plastids of to...AIM： To cost-effectively express the 23-ku pE2, the most promising subunit vaccine encoded by the E2 fragment comprising of the 3＇-portion of hepatitis E virus （HEV） open reading frame 2 （ORF2） in plastids of tobacco （Nicotiana tabacum cv. SR1）, to investigate the transgene expression and pE2 accumulation in plastids, and to evaluate the antigenic effect of the plastid-derived pE2 in mice. METHODS： Plastid-targeting vector pRB94-E2 containing the E2 fragment driven by rice psbA promoter was constructed. Upon delivery into tobacco plastids, this construct could initiate homologous recombination in psaB-trnfM and trnG-psbC fragments in plastid genome, and result in transgene inserted between the two fragments. The pRB94-E2 was delivered with a biolistic particle bombardment method, and the plastid-transformed plants were obtained following the regeneration of the bombarded leaf tissues on a spectinomycin-supplemented medium. Transplastomic status of the regenerated plants was confirmed by PCR and Southern blot analysis, transgene expression was investigated by Northern blot analysis, and accumulation of pE2 was measured by ELISA. Furthermore, protein extracts were used to immunize mice, and the presence of the pE2-reactive antibodies in serum samples of the immunized mice was studied by ELISA. RESULTS： Transplastomic lines confirmed by PCR and Southern blot analysis could actively transcribe the E2 mRNA. The pE2 polypeptide was accumulated to a level as high as 13.27 μg/g fresh leaves. The pE2 could stimulate the immunized mice to generate pE2-specific antibodies. CONCLUSION： HEV-E2 fragment can be inserted into the plastid genome and the recombinant pE2 antigen derived is antigenic in mice. Hence, plastids may be a novel source for cost-effective production of HEV vaccines.展开更多
AIM:To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of cinnamon extract and elucidate its mechanisms for targeting the function of antigen presenting cells.METHODS:Cinnamon extract was used to treat murine macrophage cel...AIM:To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of cinnamon extract and elucidate its mechanisms for targeting the function of antigen presenting cells.METHODS:Cinnamon extract was used to treat murine macrophage cell line(Raw 264.7),mouse primary antigen-presenting cells(APCs,MHCII+) and CD11c+dendritic cells to analyze the effects of cinnamon extract on APC function.The mechanisms of action of cinnamon extract on APCs were investigated by analyzing cytokine production,and expression of MHC antigens and co-stimulatory molecules by quantitative real-time PCR and flow cytometry.In addition,the effect of cinnamon extract on antigen presentation capacity and APC-dependent T-cell differentiation were analyzed by [H3]-thymidine incorporation and cytokine analysis,respectively.To confirm the anti-inflammatory effects of cinnamon extract in vivo,cinnamon or PBS was orally administered to mice for 20 d followed by induction of experimental colitis with 2,4,6 trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid.The protective effects of cinnamon extract against experimental colitis were measured by checking clinical symptoms,histological analysis and cytokine expression prof iles in inflamed tissue.RESULTS:Treatment with cinnamon extract inhibited maturation of MHCII+ APCs or CD11c+ dendritic cells(DCs) by suppressing expression of co-stimulatory molecules(B7.1,B7.2,ICOS-L),MHCII and cyclooxygenase(COX)-2.Cinnamon extract induced regulatory DCs(rDCs) that produce low levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,IL-12,interferon(IFN)-γ and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α] while expressing high levels of immunoregulatory cytokines(IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β).In addition,rDCs generated by cinnamon extract inhibited APC-dependent T-cell proliferation,and converted CD4+ T cells into IL-10high CD4+ T cells.Furthermore,oral administration of cinnamon extract inhibited development and progression of intestinal colitis by inhibiting expression of COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines(IL-1β,IFN-γ and TNF-α),while enhancing展开更多
Background Pediatric post coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)condition(PPCC)is a heterogeneous syndrome,which can significantly affect the daily lives of children.This study aimed to identify clinically meaningful phen...Background Pediatric post coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)condition(PPCC)is a heterogeneous syndrome,which can significantly affect the daily lives of children.This study aimed to identify clinically meaningful phenotypes in children with PPCC,to better characterize and treat this condition.Methods Participants were children with physician-diagnosed PPCC,referred to the academic hospital Amsterdam UMC in the Netherlands between November 2021 and March 2023.Demographic factors and information on post-COVID symptoms,comorbidities,and impact on daily life were collected.Clinical clusters were identified using an unsupervised and unbiased approach for mixed data types.Results Analysis of 111 patients(aged 3–18 years)revealed three distinct clusters within PPCC.Cluster 1(n=62,median age=15 years)predominantly consisted of girls(74.2%).These patients suffered relatively more from exercise intolerance,dyspnea,and smell disorders.Cluster 2(n=33,median age=13 years)contained patients with an even gender distribution(51.5%girls).They suffered from relatively more sleep problems,memory loss,gastrointestinal symptoms,and arthralgia.Cluster 3(n=16,median age=11 years)had a higher proportion of boys(75.0%),suffered relatively more from fever,had significantly fewer symptoms(median of 5 symptoms compared to 8 and 10 for clusters 1 and 2 respectively),and experienced a lower impact on daily life.Conclusions This study identified three distinct clinical PPCC phenotypes,with variations in sex,age,symptom patterns,and impact on daily life.These findings highlight the need for further research to understand the potentially diverse underlying mechanisms contributing to post-COVID symptoms in children.展开更多
The single-molecule surface-enhanced Raman scattering （smSERS） has been extensively studied after the initial observation in 1997, yet there still exist unsettled issues in the fundamental mechanism of smSERS. In th...The single-molecule surface-enhanced Raman scattering （smSERS） has been extensively studied after the initial observation in 1997, yet there still exist unsettled issues in the fundamental mechanism of smSERS. In this review, we survey some of the recent breakthroughs in the mechanism of smSERS and its application.展开更多
Background Intraoperative ultrasound （IOUS） has been procedures. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential the resection of small, deep-seated, or ill-defined lesions. ncreasingly used as a guiding tool duri...Background Intraoperative ultrasound （IOUS） has been procedures. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential the resection of small, deep-seated, or ill-defined lesions. ncreasingly used as a guiding tool during neurosurgical application of intraoperative ultrasound assisted surgery in Methods Eighty-six consecutive patients with small, deep-seated, or ill-defined intracerebral lesions were studied prospectively. An improved intraoperative imaging technique and surgical setup were practiced during the surgery. IOUS was performed in three orthogonal imaging planes （horizontal, coronal and sagittal）. Results Histopathological diagnoses of these 86 cases included cavernomas, metastases, hemangioblastomas, gliomas, and radiation necrosis. Forty-seven of the 86 lesions （54.7%） were small and deep-seated, 34/86 （39.5%） were ill-defined, and 5/86 （5.8%） were small, deep-seated, and ill-defined. Sonograms in the horizontal plane were obtained in all 86 cases. Sonograms in the sagittal plane and in the coronal plane were obtained only in 52 cases and in 46 cases, respectively, due to technical limitation. In 13 cases, sonograms in all three orthogonal planes were available. All lesions were successfully identified and localized by IOUS. Total resection was performed in 67 lesions （77.9%） and partial resection was performed in 19 lesions （22.1%）. Conclusions We propose IOUS to be performed in three orthogonal planes when surgery is planned for small, deep-seated, or ill-defined brain lesions. By applying this simple, improved technique, surgeons can perform resection of these lesions precisely.展开更多
A significant number of emerging pollutants(EPs)resulting from point and diffuse pollution is present in the aquatic environment.These are chemicals that are not commonly monitored but have the potential to enter the ...A significant number of emerging pollutants(EPs)resulting from point and diffuse pollution is present in the aquatic environment.These are chemicals that are not commonly monitored but have the potential to enter the environment and cause adverse ecological and human health effects.According to the NORMAN network,at least 700 substances categorized into 20 classes,have been identified in the European aquatic environment.In light of their potential impact action is urgently required.In this study,we present a concept that shows the current state of art and challenges for monitoring programs,fate and risk assessment tools and requirements for policies with respect to emerging pollutants as a base for sustainable water resource management.Currently,methods for sampling and analysis are not harmonized,being typically focused on certain EP classes.For a number of known highly hazardous EPs detection limits are too high to allow proper risk assessment.For other EPs such as microplastics method development is in its infancy.Advanced ultra-sensitive instrumental techniques should be used for quantitative determination of prioritized EPs in water,suspended matter,soil and biota.Data on EPs'and their metabolites'properties that determine their fate in the environment are often not available.National surveys on water quality often use different parameters for water quality assessment and often do not include EPs.A harmonized monitoring of surface and groundwater is not yet achieved and urgently required.Specific component integrated into models assessing the fate of EPs in a multi compartment environmental approach are missing and must be developed.The main goal of risk assessment is the overall protection of ecological communities in the aquatic environment and human health.New methods for assessing the cumulative risks from combined exposures to several stressors,including mixtures of EPs in a multi-scale approach are required.A combination of regulations and management measures with respect to use/emissions of EPs into t展开更多
AIM： To investigate the correlation between tissue ST6Gal I and serum msAFP in HCC patients, and to investigate their prognostic significance. METHODS： Preoperative sera, paired tumorous and non-tumorous tissues wer...AIM： To investigate the correlation between tissue ST6Gal I and serum msAFP in HCC patients, and to investigate their prognostic significance. METHODS： Preoperative sera, paired tumorous and non-tumorous tissues were collected from 19 consecutive patients who had undergone surgical resection of HCC. ST6Gal I activities in the tissues were measured by an in vitro microsomal enzyme activity assay. The percentages of tumor-specific msAFP in the sera were also estimated by an isoelectric focusing-immunoblotting assay. RESULTS： The tumor ST6Gal I activity was negatively correlated with serum msAFP percentage （r = -0.53, P = 0.019）. Both decreased tumor ST6Gal I activity and increased serum msAFP percentage were associated with poor tumor cell differentiation. Univariate analyses showed that both decreased tumor ST6Gal I activity （P = 0.028）, increased serum msAFP percentage （P = 0.034） and poor tumor cell differentiation （P = 0.031）were associated with shorter overall survival. Multivariate analysis using the Cox regression model showed that the preoperative serum msAFP percentage （P = 0.022） and tumor cell differentiation status （P = 0.048） were independent prognostic indicators for patient overall survival. CONCLUSION： Our results indicate that the presence of msAFP in blood circulation is associated with a decreased activity of ST6Gal I activity in HCC. Both tissue ST6Gal I and serum msAFP are potential prognostic markers for patients with operable HCC.展开更多
AIM: To investigate the age differences in the risk factors, clinicopathological characteristics and patterns of treatment of female breast cancer patients. METHODS: Seven thousand one hundred and fiftytwo women with ...AIM: To investigate the age differences in the risk factors, clinicopathological characteristics and patterns of treatment of female breast cancer patients. METHODS: Seven thousand one hundred and fiftytwo women with primary breast cancer from the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Registry were recruited after receiving patients' consent, they were asked to complete standardized questionnaires which captured their sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors associated with breast cancer development. Among them, clinicopathological data and patterns of treatment were further collected from medical records of 5523 patients with invasive breast cancers. Patients were divided into two groups according to the age at diagnosis: younger(< 40 years old) vs older patients(≥ 40 years old) for subsequent analyses.RESULTS: Analysis on the sociodemographic characteristics and exposure to risk factors were performed on 7152 women with primary breast cancer and the results revealed that younger patients were more likely to have unhealthy lifestyles; these include a lack of exercise(85.4% vs 73.2%, P < 0.001), having high stress in life(46.1% vs 35.5%, P < 0.001), having dairy/meat-rich diets(20.2% vs 12.9%, P < 0.001),having alcohol drinking habit(7.7% vs 5.2%, P = 0.002). Younger patients were also more likely to have hormone-related risk factors including nulliparity(43.3% vs 17.8%, P < 0.001) and an early age at menarche(20.7% vs 13.2%, P < 0.001). Analyses on clinicopathological characteristics and patterns of treatment were performed on 5523 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. The invasive tumours in younger patients showed more aggressive pathological features such as having a higher percentage of grade 3 histology(45.7% vs 36.5%, P < 0.001), having a higher proportion of tumours with lymphovascular invasion(39.6% vs 33.2%, P = 0.003), and having multifocal disease(15.7% vs 10.3%, P < 0.001); they received different patterns of treatment than their older counterparts.CONCLUSION: Younger patients in Hong Kong are mo展开更多
BACKGROUND Esophageal replacement(ER)with gastric pull-up(GPU)or jejunal interposition(JI)used to be the standard treatment for long-gap esophageal atresia(LGEA).Changes of the ER grafts on a macro-and microscopic lev...BACKGROUND Esophageal replacement(ER)with gastric pull-up(GPU)or jejunal interposition(JI)used to be the standard treatment for long-gap esophageal atresia(LGEA).Changes of the ER grafts on a macro-and microscopic level however,are unknown.AIM To evaluate long-term clinical symptoms and anatomical and mucosal changes in adolescents and adults after ER for LGEA.METHODS A cohort study was conducted including all LGEA patients≥16 years who had undergone GPU or JI between 1985-2003 at two tertiary referral centers in the Netherlands.Patients underwent clinical assessment,contrast study and endoscopy with biopsy.Data was collected prospectively.Group differences between JI and GPU patients,and associations between different outcome measures were assessed using the Fisher’s exact test for bivariate variables and the Mann-Whitney U-test for continuous variables.Differences with a P-value<0.05 were considered statistically significant.RESULTS Nine GPU patients and eleven JI patients were included.Median age at follow-up was 21.5 years and 24.4 years,respectively.Reflux was reported in six GPU patients(67%)vs four JI patients(36%)(P=0.37).Dysphagia symptoms were reported in 64%of JI patients,compared to 22%of GPU patients(P=0.09).Contrast studies showed dilatation of the jejunal graft in six patients(55%)and graft lengthening in four of these six patients.Endoscopy revealed columnar-lined esophagus in three GPU patients(33%)and intestinal metaplasia was histologically confirmed in two patients(22%).No association was found between reflux symptoms and macroscopic anomalies or intestinal metaplasia.Three GPU patients(33%)experienced severe feeding problems vs none in the JI group.The median body mass index of JI patients was 20.9 kg/m^(2) vs 19.5 kg/m^(2) in GPU patients(P=0.08).CONCLUSION The majority of GPU patients had reflux and intestinal metaplasia in 22%.The majority of JI patients had dysphagia and a dilated graft.Follow-up after ER for LGEA is essential.展开更多
By using the laser scanning confocal microscope and plastic （Leica 7022 historesin embedding kit） semi-thin sectioning technique, comparative studies on the development of endosperm were carried out between autotetr...By using the laser scanning confocal microscope and plastic （Leica 7022 historesin embedding kit） semi-thin sectioning technique, comparative studies on the development of endosperm were carried out between autotetraploid and diploid rices. About one third of the ovaries in the autotetraploid showed normal endosperm development as those in the diploid. In these ovaries, one of the polar nuclei would fuse with the sperm nucleus, and the primary endosperm nucleus formed and underwent the first division in 4 hours after pollination; the anticlinal wall began to grow centripetally between the free nuclei starting from the wall ingrowths of the embryo sac near the micropylar end, and some of the phragmoplasts formed transformed into periclinal walls. In addition, some of the cell wall situated in the middle of the endosperm appeared to originate from phragmoplasts, whereas others seemed to develop randomly without the obvious formation of phragmoplasts. Cellulose began to accumulate in the wall of aleurone cell layer at 6 days after pollination. The cellulose wall of the cells of the aleurone cell layer appeared to have completely formed within 7 to 8 days after pollination. On the other hand, about two thirds of the ovaries in the autotetraploid showed abnormality in endosperm development with various types, such as non-fertilization, abnormal fertilization, endosperm development-delay and non-synchronization in the development of cellulose wall of cells of the aleurone layer. These abnormalities usually resulted in decreased seed setting in autotetraploid rice.展开更多
Angiolipoma of the spine is a benign neoplasm consisting of both mature fatty tissue and abnormal vascular elements, and usually presents with a slow progressive clinical course. Our patient presented with bilateral l...Angiolipoma of the spine is a benign neoplasm consisting of both mature fatty tissue and abnormal vascular elements, and usually presents with a slow progressive clinical course. Our patient presented with bilateral lower extremity weakness and chest-back numbness. Physical examination revealed adipose elements superficial hypesthesia below the T5 level and analgesia below the T6 level. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan showed an avidly and heterogeneously enhancing mass which was located in the posterior epidural space. Compression of the thoracic cord by the fusiform mass was seen between T3-T4. During the operation, a flesh pink vascular mass (4.7 cm × 1.0 cm × 1.0 cm) with obscure margin and strong but pliable texture was found in the posterior epidural space extending from T3 to T4. There was no infiltration of the dura or the adjacent bony spine. Histopathological study of the surgical specimen showed a typical angiolipoma. We review the previously documented cases of spinal extradural angiolipomas performed with MRI.展开更多
基金This study was supported by grants from the Program for Changjiang Scholars and Innovative Research Team in University （No. IRT0743） and National Natural Science Foundation of China （No. 81001187）.
文摘Background As an uncommon presentation, occult primary breast cancer remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in clinical practice. This study aimed to retrospectively assess the feasibility of breast magnetic resonance imaging （MRI） in patients with malignant axillary lymphadenopathy and unknown primary malignancy, and correlation with histopathological characteristics. Methods A total of 35 women with occult breast carcinoma were evaluated with dynamic contrast-enhanced breast MRI. Whole seriate section was used in all cases. MRI performance was assessed and correlated with histopathological findings. Results Twenty-one of 35 patients were found to have primary breast carcinoma histologically. Twenty of the 21 patients had abnormal MR findings and 1 patient had a normal MRI study. Of the remaining 14 patients, 10 were negative on both MRI and surgery. Four had suspicious enhancement on MRI and no corresponding tumor was found. Lesions with mass enhancement were found in 55% （11/20） and ductual and segmental enhancement in 45%. The average diameter of the primary tumors was 15 mm. Invasive ductal carcinomas were found in 81% （17/21）. One of 17 invasive ductual carcinomas was too small to be graded. Fourteen of the remaining 16 were classified as grade II and 2 as grade I Thirty-two of the 35 patients had received estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 examinations and the 12 of 32 were triple-negative breast carcinoma. Conclusions Mass lesions with small size and lesions with ductal or segment enhancement are common MRI features in patients with occult breast cancer. The dominant types of primary tumors are invasive ductal carcinoma with moderate histopathological grade. The rate of triple-negative breast carcinoma may be higher in occult breast cancer.
基金supported by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia through Long Term Research Grant Scheme (A/C Number 2110226-113-00)
文摘Membrane technology is becoming more important for CO,_ separation from natural gas in the new era due to its process simplicity, relative ease of operation and control, compact, and easy to scale up as compared with conventional processes. Conventional processes such as absorption and adsorption for CO2 separation from natural gas are generally more energy demanding and costly for both operation and maintenance. Polymeric membranes are the current commercial membranes used for CO2 separation from natural gas. However, polymeric membranes possess drawbacks such as low permeability and selectivity, plasticization at high temperatures, as well as insufficient thermal and chemical stability. The shortcomings of commercial polymeric membranes have motivated researchers to opt for other alternatives, especially inorganic membranes due to their higher thermal stability, good chemical resistance to solvents, high mechanical strength and long lifetime. Surface modifications can be utilized in inorganic membranes to further enhance the selectivity, permeability or catalytic activities of the membrane. This paper is to provide a comprehensive review on gas separation, comparing membrane technology with other conventional methods of recovering CO2 from natural gas, challenges of current commercial polymeric membranes and inorganic membranes for CO2 removal and membrane surface modification for improved selectivity.
基金Supported by a grant from the Hong Kong Research Grant Council, No. 7342/03M to YX Zhou and E Lam
文摘AIM： To cost-effectively express the 23-ku pE2, the most promising subunit vaccine encoded by the E2 fragment comprising of the 3＇-portion of hepatitis E virus （HEV） open reading frame 2 （ORF2） in plastids of tobacco （Nicotiana tabacum cv. SR1）, to investigate the transgene expression and pE2 accumulation in plastids, and to evaluate the antigenic effect of the plastid-derived pE2 in mice. METHODS： Plastid-targeting vector pRB94-E2 containing the E2 fragment driven by rice psbA promoter was constructed. Upon delivery into tobacco plastids, this construct could initiate homologous recombination in psaB-trnfM and trnG-psbC fragments in plastid genome, and result in transgene inserted between the two fragments. The pRB94-E2 was delivered with a biolistic particle bombardment method, and the plastid-transformed plants were obtained following the regeneration of the bombarded leaf tissues on a spectinomycin-supplemented medium. Transplastomic status of the regenerated plants was confirmed by PCR and Southern blot analysis, transgene expression was investigated by Northern blot analysis, and accumulation of pE2 was measured by ELISA. Furthermore, protein extracts were used to immunize mice, and the presence of the pE2-reactive antibodies in serum samples of the immunized mice was studied by ELISA. RESULTS： Transplastomic lines confirmed by PCR and Southern blot analysis could actively transcribe the E2 mRNA. The pE2 polypeptide was accumulated to a level as high as 13.27 μg/g fresh leaves. The pE2 could stimulate the immunized mice to generate pE2-specific antibodies. CONCLUSION： HEV-E2 fragment can be inserted into the plastid genome and the recombinant pE2 antigen derived is antigenic in mice. Hence, plastids may be a novel source for cost-effective production of HEV vaccines.
基金Supported by Grants from the BioGreen 21 Program, Rural Development Administration (PJ007054)Regional Technology Innovation Program of the MOCIE (RTI05-01-01)Korea Healthcare Technology R&D Project, Ministry of Health and Welfare (A080588-20)
文摘AIM:To investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of cinnamon extract and elucidate its mechanisms for targeting the function of antigen presenting cells.METHODS:Cinnamon extract was used to treat murine macrophage cell line(Raw 264.7),mouse primary antigen-presenting cells(APCs,MHCII+) and CD11c+dendritic cells to analyze the effects of cinnamon extract on APC function.The mechanisms of action of cinnamon extract on APCs were investigated by analyzing cytokine production,and expression of MHC antigens and co-stimulatory molecules by quantitative real-time PCR and flow cytometry.In addition,the effect of cinnamon extract on antigen presentation capacity and APC-dependent T-cell differentiation were analyzed by [H3]-thymidine incorporation and cytokine analysis,respectively.To confirm the anti-inflammatory effects of cinnamon extract in vivo,cinnamon or PBS was orally administered to mice for 20 d followed by induction of experimental colitis with 2,4,6 trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid.The protective effects of cinnamon extract against experimental colitis were measured by checking clinical symptoms,histological analysis and cytokine expression prof iles in inflamed tissue.RESULTS:Treatment with cinnamon extract inhibited maturation of MHCII+ APCs or CD11c+ dendritic cells(DCs) by suppressing expression of co-stimulatory molecules(B7.1,B7.2,ICOS-L),MHCII and cyclooxygenase(COX)-2.Cinnamon extract induced regulatory DCs(rDCs) that produce low levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin(IL)-1β,IL-6,IL-12,interferon(IFN)-γ and tumor necrosis factor(TNF)-α] while expressing high levels of immunoregulatory cytokines(IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β).In addition,rDCs generated by cinnamon extract inhibited APC-dependent T-cell proliferation,and converted CD4+ T cells into IL-10high CD4+ T cells.Furthermore,oral administration of cinnamon extract inhibited development and progression of intestinal colitis by inhibiting expression of COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines(IL-1β,IFN-γ and TNF-α),while enhancing
文摘Background Pediatric post coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)condition(PPCC)is a heterogeneous syndrome,which can significantly affect the daily lives of children.This study aimed to identify clinically meaningful phenotypes in children with PPCC,to better characterize and treat this condition.Methods Participants were children with physician-diagnosed PPCC,referred to the academic hospital Amsterdam UMC in the Netherlands between November 2021 and March 2023.Demographic factors and information on post-COVID symptoms,comorbidities,and impact on daily life were collected.Clinical clusters were identified using an unsupervised and unbiased approach for mixed data types.Results Analysis of 111 patients(aged 3–18 years)revealed three distinct clusters within PPCC.Cluster 1(n=62,median age=15 years)predominantly consisted of girls(74.2%).These patients suffered relatively more from exercise intolerance,dyspnea,and smell disorders.Cluster 2(n=33,median age=13 years)contained patients with an even gender distribution(51.5%girls).They suffered from relatively more sleep problems,memory loss,gastrointestinal symptoms,and arthralgia.Cluster 3(n=16,median age=11 years)had a higher proportion of boys(75.0%),suffered relatively more from fever,had significantly fewer symptoms(median of 5 symptoms compared to 8 and 10 for clusters 1 and 2 respectively),and experienced a lower impact on daily life.Conclusions This study identified three distinct clinical PPCC phenotypes,with variations in sex,age,symptom patterns,and impact on daily life.These findings highlight the need for further research to understand the potentially diverse underlying mechanisms contributing to post-COVID symptoms in children.
文摘The single-molecule surface-enhanced Raman scattering （smSERS） has been extensively studied after the initial observation in 1997, yet there still exist unsettled issues in the fundamental mechanism of smSERS. In this review, we survey some of the recent breakthroughs in the mechanism of smSERS and its application.
文摘Background Intraoperative ultrasound （IOUS） has been procedures. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential the resection of small, deep-seated, or ill-defined lesions. ncreasingly used as a guiding tool during neurosurgical application of intraoperative ultrasound assisted surgery in Methods Eighty-six consecutive patients with small, deep-seated, or ill-defined intracerebral lesions were studied prospectively. An improved intraoperative imaging technique and surgical setup were practiced during the surgery. IOUS was performed in three orthogonal imaging planes （horizontal, coronal and sagittal）. Results Histopathological diagnoses of these 86 cases included cavernomas, metastases, hemangioblastomas, gliomas, and radiation necrosis. Forty-seven of the 86 lesions （54.7%） were small and deep-seated, 34/86 （39.5%） were ill-defined, and 5/86 （5.8%） were small, deep-seated, and ill-defined. Sonograms in the horizontal plane were obtained in all 86 cases. Sonograms in the sagittal plane and in the coronal plane were obtained only in 52 cases and in 46 cases, respectively, due to technical limitation. In 13 cases, sonograms in all three orthogonal planes were available. All lesions were successfully identified and localized by IOUS. Total resection was performed in 67 lesions （77.9%） and partial resection was performed in 19 lesions （22.1%）. Conclusions We propose IOUS to be performed in three orthogonal planes when surgery is planned for small, deep-seated, or ill-defined brain lesions. By applying this simple, improved technique, surgeons can perform resection of these lesions precisely.
文摘A significant number of emerging pollutants(EPs)resulting from point and diffuse pollution is present in the aquatic environment.These are chemicals that are not commonly monitored but have the potential to enter the environment and cause adverse ecological and human health effects.According to the NORMAN network,at least 700 substances categorized into 20 classes,have been identified in the European aquatic environment.In light of their potential impact action is urgently required.In this study,we present a concept that shows the current state of art and challenges for monitoring programs,fate and risk assessment tools and requirements for policies with respect to emerging pollutants as a base for sustainable water resource management.Currently,methods for sampling and analysis are not harmonized,being typically focused on certain EP classes.For a number of known highly hazardous EPs detection limits are too high to allow proper risk assessment.For other EPs such as microplastics method development is in its infancy.Advanced ultra-sensitive instrumental techniques should be used for quantitative determination of prioritized EPs in water,suspended matter,soil and biota.Data on EPs'and their metabolites'properties that determine their fate in the environment are often not available.National surveys on water quality often use different parameters for water quality assessment and often do not include EPs.A harmonized monitoring of surface and groundwater is not yet achieved and urgently required.Specific component integrated into models assessing the fate of EPs in a multi compartment environmental approach are missing and must be developed.The main goal of risk assessment is the overall protection of ecological communities in the aquatic environment and human health.New methods for assessing the cumulative risks from combined exposures to several stressors,including mixtures of EPs in a multi-scale approach are required.A combination of regulations and management measures with respect to use/emissions of EPs into t
基金Supported by Central Allocation Grant CUHK 2/02C from the University Grants Committee of Hong Kong the Direct Grant for Research (2040750) from the Chinese University of Hong Kong
文摘AIM： To investigate the correlation between tissue ST6Gal I and serum msAFP in HCC patients, and to investigate their prognostic significance. METHODS： Preoperative sera, paired tumorous and non-tumorous tissues were collected from 19 consecutive patients who had undergone surgical resection of HCC. ST6Gal I activities in the tissues were measured by an in vitro microsomal enzyme activity assay. The percentages of tumor-specific msAFP in the sera were also estimated by an isoelectric focusing-immunoblotting assay. RESULTS： The tumor ST6Gal I activity was negatively correlated with serum msAFP percentage （r = -0.53, P = 0.019）. Both decreased tumor ST6Gal I activity and increased serum msAFP percentage were associated with poor tumor cell differentiation. Univariate analyses showed that both decreased tumor ST6Gal I activity （P = 0.028）, increased serum msAFP percentage （P = 0.034） and poor tumor cell differentiation （P = 0.031）were associated with shorter overall survival. Multivariate analysis using the Cox regression model showed that the preoperative serum msAFP percentage （P = 0.022） and tumor cell differentiation status （P = 0.048） were independent prognostic indicators for patient overall survival. CONCLUSION： Our results indicate that the presence of msAFP in blood circulation is associated with a decreased activity of ST6Gal I activity in HCC. Both tissue ST6Gal I and serum msAFP are potential prognostic markers for patients with operable HCC.
文摘AIM: To investigate the age differences in the risk factors, clinicopathological characteristics and patterns of treatment of female breast cancer patients. METHODS: Seven thousand one hundred and fiftytwo women with primary breast cancer from the Hong Kong Breast Cancer Registry were recruited after receiving patients' consent, they were asked to complete standardized questionnaires which captured their sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors associated with breast cancer development. Among them, clinicopathological data and patterns of treatment were further collected from medical records of 5523 patients with invasive breast cancers. Patients were divided into two groups according to the age at diagnosis: younger(< 40 years old) vs older patients(≥ 40 years old) for subsequent analyses.RESULTS: Analysis on the sociodemographic characteristics and exposure to risk factors were performed on 7152 women with primary breast cancer and the results revealed that younger patients were more likely to have unhealthy lifestyles; these include a lack of exercise(85.4% vs 73.2%, P < 0.001), having high stress in life(46.1% vs 35.5%, P < 0.001), having dairy/meat-rich diets(20.2% vs 12.9%, P < 0.001),having alcohol drinking habit(7.7% vs 5.2%, P = 0.002). Younger patients were also more likely to have hormone-related risk factors including nulliparity(43.3% vs 17.8%, P < 0.001) and an early age at menarche(20.7% vs 13.2%, P < 0.001). Analyses on clinicopathological characteristics and patterns of treatment were performed on 5523 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. The invasive tumours in younger patients showed more aggressive pathological features such as having a higher percentage of grade 3 histology(45.7% vs 36.5%, P < 0.001), having a higher proportion of tumours with lymphovascular invasion(39.6% vs 33.2%, P = 0.003), and having multifocal disease(15.7% vs 10.3%, P < 0.001); they received different patterns of treatment than their older counterparts.CONCLUSION: Younger patients in Hong Kong are mo
文摘BACKGROUND Esophageal replacement(ER)with gastric pull-up(GPU)or jejunal interposition(JI)used to be the standard treatment for long-gap esophageal atresia(LGEA).Changes of the ER grafts on a macro-and microscopic level however,are unknown.AIM To evaluate long-term clinical symptoms and anatomical and mucosal changes in adolescents and adults after ER for LGEA.METHODS A cohort study was conducted including all LGEA patients≥16 years who had undergone GPU or JI between 1985-2003 at two tertiary referral centers in the Netherlands.Patients underwent clinical assessment,contrast study and endoscopy with biopsy.Data was collected prospectively.Group differences between JI and GPU patients,and associations between different outcome measures were assessed using the Fisher’s exact test for bivariate variables and the Mann-Whitney U-test for continuous variables.Differences with a P-value<0.05 were considered statistically significant.RESULTS Nine GPU patients and eleven JI patients were included.Median age at follow-up was 21.5 years and 24.4 years,respectively.Reflux was reported in six GPU patients(67%)vs four JI patients(36%)(P=0.37).Dysphagia symptoms were reported in 64%of JI patients,compared to 22%of GPU patients(P=0.09).Contrast studies showed dilatation of the jejunal graft in six patients(55%)and graft lengthening in four of these six patients.Endoscopy revealed columnar-lined esophagus in three GPU patients(33%)and intestinal metaplasia was histologically confirmed in two patients(22%).No association was found between reflux symptoms and macroscopic anomalies or intestinal metaplasia.Three GPU patients(33%)experienced severe feeding problems vs none in the JI group.The median body mass index of JI patients was 20.9 kg/m^(2) vs 19.5 kg/m^(2) in GPU patients(P=0.08).CONCLUSION The majority of GPU patients had reflux and intestinal metaplasia in 22%.The majority of JI patients had dysphagia and a dilated graft.Follow-up after ER for LGEA is essential.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(30270814)the Teaching and Research Award Program for Outstanding Young Teachers in Higher Education Institutions of MOE,R R.Chinathe Group Project of Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province(200023).
文摘By using the laser scanning confocal microscope and plastic （Leica 7022 historesin embedding kit） semi-thin sectioning technique, comparative studies on the development of endosperm were carried out between autotetraploid and diploid rices. About one third of the ovaries in the autotetraploid showed normal endosperm development as those in the diploid. In these ovaries, one of the polar nuclei would fuse with the sperm nucleus, and the primary endosperm nucleus formed and underwent the first division in 4 hours after pollination; the anticlinal wall began to grow centripetally between the free nuclei starting from the wall ingrowths of the embryo sac near the micropylar end, and some of the phragmoplasts formed transformed into periclinal walls. In addition, some of the cell wall situated in the middle of the endosperm appeared to originate from phragmoplasts, whereas others seemed to develop randomly without the obvious formation of phragmoplasts. Cellulose began to accumulate in the wall of aleurone cell layer at 6 days after pollination. The cellulose wall of the cells of the aleurone cell layer appeared to have completely formed within 7 to 8 days after pollination. On the other hand, about two thirds of the ovaries in the autotetraploid showed abnormality in endosperm development with various types, such as non-fertilization, abnormal fertilization, endosperm development-delay and non-synchronization in the development of cellulose wall of cells of the aleurone layer. These abnormalities usually resulted in decreased seed setting in autotetraploid rice.
文摘Angiolipoma of the spine is a benign neoplasm consisting of both mature fatty tissue and abnormal vascular elements, and usually presents with a slow progressive clinical course. Our patient presented with bilateral lower extremity weakness and chest-back numbness. Physical examination revealed adipose elements superficial hypesthesia below the T5 level and analgesia below the T6 level. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan showed an avidly and heterogeneously enhancing mass which was located in the posterior epidural space. Compression of the thoracic cord by the fusiform mass was seen between T3-T4. During the operation, a flesh pink vascular mass (4.7 cm × 1.0 cm × 1.0 cm) with obscure margin and strong but pliable texture was found in the posterior epidural space extending from T3 to T4. There was no infiltration of the dura or the adjacent bony spine. Histopathological study of the surgical specimen showed a typical angiolipoma. We review the previously documented cases of spinal extradural angiolipomas performed with MRI.
