Measurement of Proton Electromagnetic Form Factors in e^{+}e^{-}→pp[over ¯] in the Energy Region 2.00-3.08 GeV

The process of e^{+}e^{-}→pp[over ¯] is studied at 22 center-of-mass energy points (sqrt[s]) from 2.00 to 3.08 GeV, exploiting 688.5  pb^{-1} of data collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII collider. The Born cross section (σ_{pp[over ¯]}) of e^{+}e^{-}→pp[over ¯] is measured with the energy-scan technique and it is found to be consistent with previously published data, but with much improved accuracy. In addition, the electromagnetic form-factor ratio (|G_{E}/G_{M}|) and the value of the effective (|G_{eff}|), electric (|G_{E}|), and magnetic (|G_{M}|) form factors are measured by studying the helicity angle of the proton at 16 center-of-mass energy points. |G_{E}/G_{M}| and |G_{M}| are determined with high accuracy, providing uncertainties comparable to data in the spacelike region, and |G_{E}| is measured for the first time. We reach unprecedented accuracy, and precision results in the timelike region provide information to improve our understanding of the proton inner structure and to test theoretical models which depend on nonperturbative quantum chromodynamics.

Measurement of the Cross Section for e^{+}e^{-}→Ξ^{-}Ξ[over ¯]^{+} and Observation of an Excited Ξ Baryon

Using a total of 11.0  fb^{-1} of e^{+}e^{-} collision data with center-of-mass energies between 4.009 and 4.6 GeV and collected with the BESIII detector at BEPCII, we measure fifteen exclusive cross sections and effective form factors for the process e^{+}e^{-}→Ξ^{-}Ξ[over ¯]^{+} by means of a single baryon-tag method. After performing a fit to the dressed cross section of e^{+}e^{-}→Ξ^{-}Ξ[over ¯]^{+}, no significant ψ(4230) or ψ(4260) resonance is observed in the Ξ^{-}Ξ[over ¯]^{+} final states, and upper limits at the 90% confidence level on Γ_{ee}B for the processes ψ(4230)/ψ(4260)→Ξ^{-}Ξ[over ¯]^{+} are determined. In addition, an excited Ξ baryon at 1820  MeV/c^{2} is observed with a statistical significance of 6.2-6.5σ by including the systematic uncertainty, and the mass and width are measured to be M=(1825.5±4.7±4.7)  MeV/c^{2} and Γ=(17.0±15.0±7.9)  MeV, which confirms the existence of the J^{P}=3/2^{-} state Ξ(1820).

[Clinical application of HRCT three-dimensional reconstruction in traumatic ossicular chain interruption]

Objective:To investigate the clinical value of HRCT three-dimensional reconstruction technique in traumatic auditory chain traumatic fracture. Method:The clinical data of 14 patients with traumatic ear ossicular chain interruption were analyzed retrospectively. To evaluate the injury site and degree of the auditory chain before surgery, all the 14 patients underwent,HRCT scanning and three-dimensional reconstruction. The reconstructed auditory chain was observed from multiple angles and compared with the surgical exploration results under microscope. Result:The coincidence rate between ossicular chain injury observed by temporal bone HRCT scan before operation and ossicular chain injury observed during surgery was only 28.57%, the coincidence rate between ossicular chain injury observed during surgery and ossicular chain injury observed by three-dimensional reconstruction is 85.71%.Therefore, three-dimensional reconstruction imaging technique could give the doctor more clearly and stereoscopic images for the destruction of ossicular chain. Conclusion:Preoperative three-dimensional reconstruction can display and diagnosis of auditory ossicular chain destruction more clearly. It can be used to accurately evaluate auditory ossicular chain pathological changes, to develop individualized surgical plans and assess the risk of surgery.

Observation of the Semileptonic D^{+} Decay into the K[over ¯]_{1}(1270)^{0} Axial-Vector Meson

By analyzing a 2.93  fb^{-1} data sample of e^{+}e^{-} collisions, recorded at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV with the BESIII detector operated at the BEPCII collider, we report the first observation of the semileptonic D^{+} transition into the axial-vector meson D^{+}→K[over ¯]_{1}(1270)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} with a statistical significance greater than 10σ. Its decay branching fraction is determined to be B[D^{+}→K[over ¯]_{1}(1270)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}]=(2.30±0.26_{-0.21}^{+0.18}±0.25)×10^{-3}, where the first and second uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively, and the third originates from the input branching fraction of K[over ¯]_{1}(1270)^{0}→K^{-}π^{+}π^{0}.

Observation of the Leptonic Decay D^{+}→τ^{+}ν_{τ}

We report the first observation of D^{+}→τ^{+}ν_{τ} with a significance of 5.1σ. We measure B(D^{+}→τ^{+}ν_{τ})=(1.20±0.24_{stat}±0.12_{syst})×10^{-3}. Taking the world average B(D^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ})=(3.74±0.17)×10^{-4}, we obtain R_{τ/μ}=Γ(D^{+}→τ^{+}ν_{τ})/Γ(D^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ})=3.21±0.64_{stat}±0.43_{syst}., which is consistent with the standard model expectation of lepton flavor universality. Using external inputs, our results give values for the D^{+} decay constant f_{D^{+}} and the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element |V_{cd}| that are consistent with, but less precise than, other determinations.

Chinese SLE Treatment and Research group (CSTAR) registry: Clinical significance of thrombocytopenia in Chinese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and prognosis of thrombocytopenia (TP) in Chinese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

The study was conducted based on the Chinese SLE Treatment and Research group (CSTAR) registry. Thrombocytopenia was defined as the platelet count<100,000/mm³ at enrollment. Severe thrombocytopenia was defined as the platelet count<50,000/mm³. The prevalence of SLE-related TP, the associations of thrombocytopenia with demographic data, organ involvements, laboratory findings, disease activity, damage, and mortality were investigated.

Results

Of 2104 patients with SLE, 342 patients (16.3%) were diagnosed with thrombocytopenia. The prevalence of neuropsychiatric SLE, vasculitis, myositis, nephritis, mucocutaneous lesions, pleuritis, fever, leukocytopenia and hypocomplementemia were significantly higher in patients with thrombocytopenia (p<0.05). SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) was significantly higher in patients with thrombocytopenia (p<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that leukocytopenia (OR = 2.644), lupus nephritis (OR = 1.539), hypocomplementemia (OR = 1.497) and elevated SLEDAI (OR = 1.318) were independently associated with thrombocytopenia (p<0.05). Long disease duration (OR = 1.006) was an independent risk factor of severe thrombocytopenia, while anti-rRNP (OR = 0.208) was an independent protective factor of severe thrombocytopenia (p<0.05). Long disease duration was an independent risk factor of mortality in patients with thrombocytopenia (RR = 1.006). The 6-year survival of patients with thrombocytopenia was significantly lower than patients without thrombocytopenia (88.2% vs. 95.5%).

Conclusions

Thrombocytopenia was a common manifestation of SLE and was associated with leukocytopenia, nephritis and severe disease activity. Severe thrombocytopenia tended to occur in long-term and relatively inactive SLE. Patients with SLE-related thrombocytopenia has a decreased long-term survival rate. Long disease duration was an independent risk factor of mortality in patients with thrombocytopenia.

The role of Parkin protein in cardiac function and ventricular remodeling in myocardial infarction rats

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the role and the mechanism of Parkin protein in cardiac function and ventricular remodeling in myocardial infarction (MI) rats, and to provide a new sight for the treatment of myocardial infarction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty Sprague- Dawley (SD) male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups: sham operation group (Sham group), model group (MI group), low-dose Parkin group (L-Parkin group), middle-dose Parkin group (M-Parkin group) and high-dose Parkin group (H-Parkin group). The rat model of myocardial infarction was established by ligation of the anterior descending branch. Small animal ultrasound was used to measure cardiac function. The myocardial infarct size was observed by triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. The pathological changes of myocardial tissues were observed by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The myocardial cell apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. The mRNA expression of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (TIMP2) were detected by qRT-PCR. The expression of Parkin protein in myocardial tissue of rats was detected by Western-blot.

RESULTS

Compared with MI group, left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) and left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) in Parkin overexpressing group were significantly decreased (p<0.05), while the value of left ventricular short axis shortening (FS) and left ventricular ejection fraction (EF %) in Parkin overexpression group were significantly increased (p<0.05). Overexpression of Parkin improved abnormal structure of myocardial tissue, reduced the size of myocardial infarct, made the arrangement of myocardium fibers more neatly and made the stain of myocardial cells more uniformly. Apoptosis index (AI) values were significantly decreased (p<0.05), and MMP2, MMP9, TIMP1 and TIMP2 mRNA levels were significantly decreased (p<0.05), while Parkin protein expression was significantly elevated in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

After treatment with Parkin in myocardial infarction rats, the relevant mRNA levels decreased, the number of apoptotic cells decreased, the myocardial fiber morphology returned to normal, the myocardial infarct size decreased, and the cardiac function of rats improved. Therefore, Parkin therapy plays an active role in cardiac function and ventricular remodeling in myocardial infarction rats.

Inhibition of Sumoylation Alleviates Oxidative Stress-induced Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cell Senescence and Represses Proinflammatory Gene Expression

PURPOSE

Advanced age is the largest risk factor for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Sumoylation is a reversible post-translational modification that conjugates small peptide, small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO), to a target protein. Dysregulation of sumoylation is recently found to be critically involved in several age-related disorders. However, the effects of sumoylation during retina senescence and aging remains elusive. This study is aimed to investigate the function and regulation of sumoylation pathway in the aging retina and premature senescent retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells.

METHODS

1.5- and 10-month C57/B6 mice were used for comparative aging study. Both ARPE primary cultures and ARPE-19 cells were used for assay systems. The qRT-PCR was used for analysis of mRNA expression. Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to analyze the protein expression. Cell flow cytometry was used for cell cycle progression analysis. RPE barrier function and senescent-associated β-galactosidase (SA β-gal) activity were analyzed to measure cellular senescence.

RESULTS

We show that the expression of SUMO enzymes and global protein sumoylation were downregulated in the aging mouse retina, and in the oxidative stress (OS) -induced premature senescent RPE cells. Dramatical altered distribution of SUMO E1, E2 and E3 enzymes were observed during RPE senescence. Inhibition of sumoylation alleviated OS-induced cell senescence in RPE cells, as indicated by decreased p21 and p53 expression and decreased percentage of cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase. Intriguingly, inhibition of SUMO E1 repressed the expression of proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine in the premature senescent RPE cells. However, inhibition of sumoylation did not prevent DNA damage during the OS-induced RPE senescence process.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data indicate sumoylation critically regulates retina and RPE aging and that targeting sumoylation process may provide potential therapeutic strategy for AMD treatment.

Complete Measurement of the Λ Electromagnetic Form Factors

The exclusive process e^{+}e^{-}→ΛΛ[over ¯], with Λ→pπ^{-} and Λ[over ¯]→p[over ¯]π^{+}, has been studied at sqrt[s]=2.396  GeV for measurement of the timelike Λ electric and magnetic form factors, G_{E} and G_{M}. A data sample, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 66.9  pb^{-1}, was collected with the BESIII detector for this purpose. A multidimensional analysis with a complete decomposition of the spin structure of the reaction enables a determination of the modulus of the ratio R=|G_{E}/G_{M}| and, for the first time for any baryon, the relative phase ΔΦ=Φ_{E}-Φ_{M}. The resulting values are R=0.96±0.14(stat)±0.02(syst) and ΔΦ=37°±12°(stat)±6°(syst), respectively. These are obtained using the recently established and most precise value of the asymmetry parameter α_{Λ}=0.750±0.010 measured by BESIII. In addition, the cross section is measured with unprecedented precision to be σ=118.7±5.3(stat)±5.1(syst)  pb, which corresponds to an effective form factor of |G|=0.123±0.003(stat)±0.003(syst). The contribution from two-photon exchange is found to be negligible. Our result enables the first complete determination of baryon timelike electromagnetic form factors.

Amplitude Analysis of D_{s}^{+}→π^{+}π^{0}η and First Observation of the W-Annihilation Dominant Decays D_{s}^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{+}π^{0} and D_{s}^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}π^{+}

We present the first amplitude analysis of the decay D_{s}^{+}→π^{+}π^{0}η. We use an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3.19  fb^{-1} collected with the BESIII detector at a center-of-mass energy of 4.178 GeV. We observe for the first time the W-annihilation dominant decays D_{s}^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{+}π^{0} and D_{s}^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}π^{+}. We measure the absolute branching fraction B(D_{s}^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{+(0)}π^{0^{(}+)},a_{0}(980)^{+(0)}→π^{+(0)}η)=(1.46±0.15_{stat}±0.23_{sys})%, which is larger than the branching fractions of other measured pure W-annihilation decays by at least one order of magnitude. In addition, we measure the branching fraction of D_{s}^{+}→π^{+}π^{0}η with significantly improved precision.

Study of e^{+}e^{-}→γωJ/ψ and Observation of X(3872)→ωJ/ψ

We study the e^{+}e^{-}→γωJ/ψ process using 11.6  fb^{-1} e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data taken at center-of-mass energies from sqrt[s]=4.008  GeV to 4.600 GeV with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII storage ring. The X(3872) resonance is observed for the first time in the ωJ/ψ system with a significance of more than 5σ. The relative decay ratio of X(3872)→ωJ/ψ and π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ is measured to be R=1.6_{-0.3}^{+0.4}±0.2, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic (the same hereafter). The sqrt[s]-dependent cross section of e^{+}e^{-}→γX(3872) is also measured and investigated, and it can be described by a single Breit-Wigner resonance, referred to as the Y(4200), with a mass of 4200.6_{-13.3}^{+7.9}±3.0  MeV/c^{2} and a width of 115_{-26}^{+38}±12  MeV. In addition, to describe the ωJ/ψ mass distribution above 3.9  GeV/c^{2}, we need at least one additional Breit-Wigner resonance, labeled as X(3915), in the fit. The mass and width of the X(3915) are determined. The resonant parameters of the X(3915) agree with those of the Y(3940) in B→KωJ/ψ and of the X(3915) in γγ→ωJ/ψ observed by the Belle and BABAR experiments within errors.

Observation of the Decay X(3872)→π^{0}χ_{c1}(1P)

Using a total of 9.0  fb^{-1} of e^{+}e^{-} collision data with center-of-mass energies between 4.15 and 4.30 GeV collected by the BESIII detector, we search for the processes e^{+}e^{-}→γX(3872) with X(3872)→π^{0}χ_{cJ} for J=0, 1, 2. We report the first observation of X(3872)→π^{0}χ_{c1}, a new decay mode of the X(3872), with a statistical significance of more than 5σ for all systematic fit variations. Normalizing to the previously established process e^{+}e^{-}→γX(3872) with X(3872)→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ, we find B(X(3872)→π^{0}χ_{c1})/B(X(3872)→π^{+}π^{-}J/ψ)=0.88_{-0.27}^{+0.33}±0.10, where the first error is statistical and the second is systematic. We set 90% confidence level upper limits on the corresponding ratios for the decays to π^{0}χ_{c0} and π^{0}χ_{c2} of 19 and 1.1, respectively.

Precision Measurement of the Branching Fractions of η^{'} Decays

Based on a sample of (1310.6±7.0)×10^{6}J/ψ events collected with the BESIII detector, we present measurements of J/ψ and η^{'} absolute branching fractions using the process J/ψ→γη^{'}. By analyzing events where the radiative photon converts into an e^{+}e^{-} pair, the branching fraction for J/ψ→γη^{'} is measured to be (5.27±0.03±0.05)×10^{-3}. The absolute branching fractions of the five dominant decay channels of the η^{'} are then measured for the first time and are determined to be B(η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-})=(29.90±0.03±0.55)%, B(η^{'}→ηπ^{+}π^{-})=(41.24±0.08±1.24)%, B(η^{'}→ηπ^{0}π^{0})=(21.36±0.10±0.92)%, B(η^{'}→γω)=(2.489±0.018±0.074)%, and B(η^{'}→γγ)=(2.331±0.012±0.035)%, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second systematic.

Measurement of the Dynamics of the Decays D_{s}^{+}→η^{(')}e^{+}ν_{e}

Using e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 3.19  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of 4.178 GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fractions B_{D_{s}^{+}→ηe^{+}ν_{e}}=(2.323±0.063_{stat}±0.063_{syst})% and B_{D_{s}^{+}→η^{'}e^{+}ν_{e}}=(0.824±0.073_{stat}±0.027_{syst})% via a tagged analysis technique, where one D_{s} is fully reconstructed in a hadronic mode. Combining these measurements with previous BESIII measurements of B_{D^{+}→η^{(')}e^{+}ν_{e}}, the η-η^{'} mixing angle in the quark flavor basis is determined to be ϕ_{P}=(40.1±2.1_{stat}±0.7_{syst})°. From the first measurements of the dynamics of D_{s}^{+}→η^{(')}e^{+}ν_{e} decays, the products of the hadronic form factors f_{+}^{η^{(')}}(0) and the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix element |V_{cs}| are determined with different form factor parametrizations. For the two-parameter series expansion, the results are f_{+}^{η}(0)|V_{cs}|=0.4455±0.0053_{stat}±0.0044_{syst} and f_{+}^{η^{'}}(0)|V_{cs}|=0.477±0.049_{stat}±0.011_{syst}.

Evidence of a Resonant Structure in the e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}D^{0}D^{*-} Cross Section between 4.05 and 4.60 GeV

The cross section of the process e^{+}e^{-}→π^{+}D^{0}D^{*-} for center-of-mass energies from 4.05 to 4.60 GeV is measured precisely using data samples collected with the BESIII detector operating at the BEPCII storage ring. Two enhancements are clearly visible in the cross section around 4.23 and 4.40 GeV. Using several models to describe the dressed cross section yields stable parameters for the first enhancement, which has a mass of 4228.6±4.1±6.3  MeV/c^{2} and a width of 77.0±6.8±6.3  MeV, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second ones are systematic. Our resonant mass is consistent with previous observations of the Y(4220) state and the theoretical prediction of a DD[over ¯]_{1}(2420) molecule. This result is the first observation of Y(4220) associated with an open-charm final state. Fits with three resonance functions with additional Y(4260), Y(4320), Y(4360), ψ(4415), or a new resonance do not show significant contributions from either of these resonances. The second enhancement is not from a single known resonance. It could contain contributions from ψ(4415) and other resonances, and a detailed amplitude analysis is required to better understand this enhancement.

Determination of the Pseudoscalar Decay Constant f_{D_{s}^{+}} via D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ}

Using a 3.19  fb^{-1} data sample collected at an e^{+}e^{-} center-of-mass energy of E_{cm}=4.178  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the branching fraction of the leptonic decay D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ} to be B_{D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ}}=(5.49±0.16_{stat}±0.15_{syst})×10^{-3}. Combining our branching fraction with the masses of the D_{s}^{+} and μ^{+} and the lifetime of the D_{s}^{+}, we determine f_{D_{s}^{+}}|V_{cs}|=246.2±3.6_{stat}±3.5_{syst}  MeV. Using the c→s quark mixing matrix element |V_{cs}| determined from a global standard model fit, we evaluate the D_{s}^{+} decay constant f_{D_{s}^{+}}=252.9±3.7_{stat}±3.6_{syst}  MeV. Alternatively, using the value of f_{D_{s}^{+}} calculated by lattice quantum chromodynamics, we find |V_{cs}|=0.985±0.014_{stat}±0.014_{syst}. These values of B_{D_{s}^{+}→μ^{+}ν_{μ}}, f_{D_{s}^{+}}|V_{cs}|, f_{D_{s}^{+}} and |V_{cs}| are each the most precise results to date.

First Measurement of the Form Factors in D_{s}^{+}→K^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} and D_{s}^{+}→K^{*0}e^{+}ν_{e} Decays

We report on new measurements of Cabibbo-suppressed semileptonic D_{s}^{+} decays using 3.19  fb^{-1} of e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data sample collected at a center-of-mass energy of 4.178 GeV with the BESIII detector at the BEPCII collider. Our results include branching fractions B(D_{s}^{+}→K^{0}e^{+}ν_{e})=[3.25±0.38(stat)±0.16(syst)]×10^{-3} and B(D_{s}^{+}→K^{*0}e^{+}ν_{e})=[2.37±0.26(stat)±0.20(syst)]×10^{-3}, which are much improved relative to previous measurements, and the first measurements of the hadronic form-factor parameters for these decays. For D_{s}^{+}→K^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}, we obtain f_{+}(0)=0.720±0.084(stat)±0.013(syst), and for D_{s}^{+}→K^{*0}e^{+}ν_{e}, we find form-factor ratios r_{V}=V(0)/A_{1}(0)=1.67±0.34(stat)±0.16(syst) and r_{2}=A_{2}(0)/A_{1}(0)=0.77±0.28(stat)±0.07(syst).

Observation of D^{+}→f_{0}(500)e^{+}ν_{e} and Improved Measurements of D→ρe^{+}ν_{e}

Using a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2.93  fb^{-1} recorded by the BESIII detector at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV, we present an analysis of the decays D^{0}→π^{-}π^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} and D^{+}→π^{-}π^{+}e^{+}ν_{e}. By performing a partial wave analysis, the π^{+}π^{-} S-wave contribution to D^{+}→π^{-}π^{+}e^{+}ν_{e} is observed to be (25.7±1.6±1.1)% with a statistical significance greater than 10σ, besides the dominant P-wave contribution. This is the first observation of the S-wave contribution. We measure the branching fractions B(D^{0}→ρ^{-}e^{+}ν_{e})=(1.445±0.058±0.039)×10^{-3}, B(D^{+}→ρ^{0}e^{+}ν_{e})=(1.860±0.070±0.061)×10^{-3}, and B(D^{+}→f_{0}(500)e^{+}ν_{e},f_{0}(500)→π^{+}π^{-})=(6.30±0.43±0.32)×10^{-4}. An upper limit of B(D^{+}→f_{0}(980)e^{+}ν_{e},f_{0}(980)→π^{+}π^{-})<2.8×10^{-5} is set at the 90% confidence level. We also obtain the hadronic form factor ratios of D→ρe^{+}ν_{e} at q^{2}=0 assuming the single-pole dominance parametrization: r_{V}={[V(0)]/[A_{1}(0)]}=1.695±0.083±0.051, r_{2}={[A_{2}(0)]/[A_{1}(0)]}=0.845±0.056±0.039.

Phosphoproteome profiling revealed abnormally phosphorylated AMPK and ATF2 involved in glucose metabolism and tumorigenesis of GH-PAs

PURPOSE

Protein phosphorylation plays a key role in tumorigenesis and progression. However, little is known about the phosphoproteome profiles of growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas (GH-PAs). The aim of this study was to identify critical biomarkers and signaling pathways that might play important roles in GH-PAs and may, therefore, represent potential therapeutic targets.

METHODS

The differential phosphoprotein expression patterns involved in GH-PAs were investigated by nano-LC-MS/MS in a group of samples. The phosphoprotein expression data were analyzed by bioinformatics. The expression levels of the candidate phosphorylated AMPK (ser496) and ATF2 (ser112) were validated by Western blot analysis in another group of samples.

RESULTS

A total of 1213 phosphorylated protein sites corresponding to 667 proteins were significantly different between GH-PAs and healthy pituitary glands. Among these phosphorylated sites, 871 exhibited lower levels of phosphorylation in GH-PAs. Moreover, 140 novel phosphosites corresponding to 93 proteins were differentially phosphorylated between GH-PAs and healthy pituitary glands, 101 of which showed decreased phosphorylation in GH-PAs. The majority of differentially expressed phosphorylated proteins were significantly enriched in glycolysis and the AMPK signaling pathway in GH-PAs. The AMPK signaling pathway was demonstrated to be inhibited in GH-PAs by pathway activity analysis (z score = - 2.324). Notably, the phosphorylated levels of AMPK (ser496) and ATF2 (ser112) were significantly lower in GH-PAs than in healthy pituitary glands.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that decreased phosphorylation of the AMPK/ATF2 pathway may be critical for glucose metabolism and tumorigenesis in GH-PAs.

Study of the D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} Dynamics and Test of Lepton Flavor Universality with D^{0}→K^{-}ℓ^{+}ν_{ℓ} Decays

Using e^{+}e^{-} annihilation data of 2.93  fb^{-1} collected at center-of-mass energy sqrt[s]=3.773  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} with significantly improved precision: B_{D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}=(3.413±0.019_{stat}±0.035_{syst})%. Combining with our previous measurement of B_{D^{0}→K^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}}, the ratio of the two branching fractions is determined to be B_{D^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{0}→K^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.974±0.007_{stat}±0.012_{syst}, which agrees with the theoretical expectation of lepton flavor universality within the uncertainty. A study of the ratio of the two branching fractions in different four-momentum transfer regions is also performed, and no evidence for lepton flavor universality violation is found with current statistics. Taking inputs from global fit in the standard model and lattice quantum chromodynamics separately, we determine f_{+}^{K}(0)=0.7327±0.0039_{stat}±0.0030_{syst} and |V_{cs}|=0.955±0.005_{stat}±0.004_{syst}±0.024_{LQCD}.

Measurement of the Absolute Branching Fraction of the Inclusive Semileptonic Λ_{c}^{+} Decay

Using a data sample of e^{+}e^{-} collisions corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 567  pb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=4.6  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of the inclusive semileptonic Λ_{c}^{+} decay with a double-tag method. We obtain B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Xe^{+}ν_{e})=(3.95±0.34±0.09)%, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. Using the known Λ_{c}^{+} lifetime and the charge-averaged semileptonic decay width of nonstrange charmed mesons (D^{0} and D^{+}), we obtain the ratio of the inclusive semileptonic decay widths Γ(Λ_{c}^{+}→Xe^{+}ν_{e})/Γ[over ¯](D→Xe^{+}ν_{e})=1.26±0.12.

Allogeneic adipose-derived stem cells suppress mTORC1 pathway in a murine model of systemic lupus erythematosus

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to investigate the efficacy of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) transplantation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to determine the mechanism of ADSC transplantation.

METHODS

B6.MRL/lpr mice were administered ADSC intravenously every week from age 28 to 31 weeks, while the lupus control group and the normal control received phosphate buffered solution (PBS) on the same schedule.

RESULTS

Compared with the lupus control group, the ADSC treatment group had a significant improvement of histologic abnormalities, serologic abnormalities, and immunologic function. Anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies, spleen/weight ratio, deposits of C3/IgG in the kidney, and serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels were significantly decreased with the transplantation of ADSC. A significant decrease of the Th17/CD4⁺ T cell ratio in the spleen, the serum IL-17 concentration, as well as renal IL-17 expression was observed in the ADSC treatment group. Western blot results also showed that ADSC treatment had a lower expression of protein kinase B (Akt), p-Akt, mTOR, p-mTOR, p70S6K, p-p70S6K, and HIF-1α.

CONCLUSION

ADSC treatment can prevent the development of lupus nephritis and significantly ameliorate already-established disease. ADSC treatment reduced Akt, mTOR, p70S6K, HIF-1α, and that this inhibition can avert IL-17-induced inflammation, suggesting that ADSC may be a promising treatment for SLE.

[Research on the factors affecting the postoperative outcome of otosclerosis]

Summary Otosclerosis is not often seen in the clinic, but it can seriously affect the quality of life due to the hearing loss of patients. Currently, the treatment of otosclerosis is mainly surgery. With the development of microsurgical techniques, the treatment of surgery for otosclerosis has been highly praised and widely carried out. However, different surgical methods, assistive techniques and instruments used during surgery, selected placement of prostheses, and varying levels of experience of the surgeon can all affect postoperative outcomes. In order to provide reference for the surgical treatment of otosclerosis in the future，this paper will summarize the factors related to postoperative efficacy of stapes surgery for otosclerosis.

Measurement of the Branching Fraction For the Semileptonic Decay D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and Test of Lepton Flavor Universality

Using a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2.93  fb^{-1} taken at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV with the BESIII detector operated at the BEPCII collider, we perform an analysis of the semileptonic decays D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}μ^{+}ν_{μ}. The branching fractions of D^{0}→π^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and D^{+}→π^{0}μ^{+}ν_{μ} are measured to be (0.272±0.008_{stat}±0.006_{syst})% and (0.350±0.011_{stat}±0.010_{syst})%, respectively, where the former is of much improved precision compared to previous results and the latter is determined for the first time. Using these results along with previous BESIII measurements of D^{0(+)}→π^{-(0)}e^{+}ν_{e}, we calculate the branching fraction ratios to be R^{0}≡B_{D^{0}→π^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{0}→π^{-}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.922±0.030_{stat}±0.022_{syst} and R^{+}≡B_{D^{+}→π^{0}μ^{+}ν_{μ}}/B_{D^{+}→π^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}}=0.964±0.037_{stat}±0.026_{syst}, which are compatible with the theoretical expectation of lepton flavor universality within 1.7σ and 0.5σ, respectively. We also examine the branching fraction ratios in different four-momentum transfer square regions, and find no significant deviations from the standard model predictions.

[An analysis of mental health status of female migrant workers in a city]

Objective: To investigate the mental health status of female migrant workers in a city. Methods: From August to December, 2016, cluster random sampling was used to select female migrant workers aged 16-60 years from 10 districts of this city, and Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) and a questionnaire on general status were used. Results: Among these female migrant workers, the detection rates of obsessive-compulsion, hostility, and depression were 6.62%, 4.18%, and 4.10%, respectively. There was a significant difference in the detection rate of mental health issues between the female migrant workers from different districts, with different occupations, or with different education levels (P<0.05) . Districts, occupation, and education level were associated with mental health issues, after adjustment for age (P<0.05) . Conclusion: Although female migrant workers in this city have a high mental health level, the issues such as obsessive-compulsion, hostility, and depression should be taken seriously. Targeted mental health surveys and comprehensive interventions should be implemented to improve the mental health level of female migrant workers.

Probiotic Bacillus enhance the intestinal epithelial cell barrier and immune function of piglets

Bacillus is widely used in the livestock industry. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of probiotic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens SC06 (Ba), originally isolated from soil, in piglets diet as an alternative to antibiotics (aureomycin), mainly on intestinal epithelial barrier and immune function. Ninety piglets were divided into three groups: G1 (containing 150 mg/kg aureomycin in the diet); G2 (containing 75 mg/kg aureomycin and 1×108 cfu/kg Ba in the diet); G3 (containing 2×108 cfu/kg Ba in the diet without any antibiotics). The results showed that, compared with the antibiotic group (G1), villus length, crypt depth and villus length/crypt depth ratio of intestine significantly increased in the G2 and G3 groups. In addition, intestinal villi morphology, goblet-cell number, mitochondria structure and tight junction proteins of intestinal epithelial cells in G2 and G3 were better than in G1. The relative gene expression of intestinal mucosal defensin-1, claudin3, claudin4, and human mucin-1 in G3 was significantly lower, while the expression of villin was significantly higher than in the antibiotic group. Probiotic Ba could significantly decrease serum interferon (IFN)-α, IFN-γ, interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-4 levels, whereas increase tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-6 secretion. Ba could also significantly decrease cytokines TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1β, and IL-4 level in liver, whereas it significantly increased IFN-α. Furthermore, replacing antibiotics with Ba also significantly down-regulated gene expression of TNF and IL-1α in intestinal mucosa, but up-regulated IL-6 and IL-8 transcription. Dietary addition of Ba could significantly reduce the gene expression of nuclear factor kappa beta (NFκB)-p50 and Toll-like receptor (TLR)6, while there was no significant difference for that of myeloid differentiation primary response 88, TNF receptor-associated factor-6, nucleotide-binding oligomerisation domain-containing protein 1, TLR2, TLR4, and TLR9. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that probiotic Ba could increase the intestinal epithelial cell barrier and immune function by improving intestinal mucosa structure, tight junctions and by activating the TLRs signalling pathway.

Observation of the Semileptonic Decay D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e} and Evidence for D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e}

Using an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample of 2.93  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of 3.773 GeV by the BESIII detector at BEPCII, we report the observation of D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e} and evidence for D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e} with significances of 6.4σ and 2.9σ, respectively. The absolute branching fractions are determined to be B(D^{0}→a_{0}(980)^{-}e^{+}ν_{e})×B(a_{0}(980)^{-}→ηπ^{-})=[1.33_{-0.29}^{+0.33}(stat)±0.09(syst)]×10^{-4} and B(D^{+}→a_{0}(980)^{0}e^{+}ν_{e})×B(a_{0}(980)^{0}→ηπ^{0})=[1.66_{-0.66}^{+0.81}(stat)±0.11(syst)]×10^{-4}. This is the first time the a_{0}(980) meson has been measured in a D^{0} semileptonic decay, which would open one more interesting page in the investigation of the nature of the puzzling a_{0}(980) states.

Measurement of the Absolute Branching Fraction of the Inclusive Decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X

Based on an e^{+}e^{-} collision data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 567  pb^{-1} taken at the center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=4.6  GeV with the BESIII detector, we measure the absolute branching fraction of the inclusive decay Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X to be B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)=(38.2_{-2.2}^{+2.8}±0.9)% using the double-tag method, where X refers to any possible final state particles. In addition, we search for direct CP violation in the charge asymmetry of this inclusive decay for the first time, and obtain A_{CP}≡[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)-B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]/[B(Λ_{c}^{+}→Λ+X)+B(Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-}→Λ[over ¯]+X)]=(2.1_{-6.6}^{+7.0}±1.6)%, a statistically limited result with no evidence of CP violation.

Observation of a_{0}^{0}(980)-f_{0}(980) Mixing

We report the first observation of a_{0}^{0}(980)-f_{0}(980) mixing in the decays of J/ψ→ϕf_{0}(980)→ϕa_{0}^{0}(980)→ϕηπ^{0} and χ_{c1}→a_{0}^{0}(980)π^{0}→f_{0}(980)π^{0}→π^{+}π^{-}π^{0}, using data samples of 1.31×10^{9}  J/ψ events and 4.48×10^{8}  ψ(3686) events accumulated with the BESIII detector. The signals of f_{0}(980)→a_{0}^{0}(980) and a_{0}^{0}(980)→f_{0}(980) mixing are observed at levels of statistical significance of 7.4σ and 5.5σ, respectively. The corresponding branching fractions and mixing intensities are measured and the constraint regions on the coupling constants, g_{a_{0}K^{+}K^{-}} and g_{f_{0}K^{+}K^{-}}, are estimated. The results improve the understanding of the nature of a_{0}^{0}(980) and f_{0}(980).

[Treatment and prognosis of immunoglobulin G4-related hepatobiliary disease]

Currently, there is no randomized controlled clinical trial of immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related diseases in the world. Therefore, the best-known evidence-based medical treatment plan for this disorder is unavailable. The goal of IgG4-related hepatobiliary diseases treatment is to alleviate symptoms, prevent disease-related complications and fibrosis progression. A definite diagnosis is warranted before treatment. Hormonal therapy has become the basis of induction of remission in IgG4-related hepatobiliary disease. An initial prednisone dose is 30 ~ 40mg/d or 0.6 mg.kg-1.d-1 for 2 to 4 weeks, thereafter, gradually the dose is reduced within 2-3 months. Maintenance therapy with low-dose glucocorticoids hormone (prednisone 2.5 to 5.0 mg/d) is recommended for 1 to 3 years to prevent disease recurrence. In addition, immunosuppressive agents are equally effective, and in most cases, hormone combined immunosuppressive therapy may respond. Rituximab, a monoclonal antibody is a promising drug for treatment of this kind of diseases.

Precision Study of η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} Decay Dynamics

Using a low background data sample of 9.7×10^{5}  J/ψ→γη^{'}, η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} events, which are 2 orders of magnitude larger than those from the previous experiments, recorded with the BESIII detector at BEPCII, the decay dynamics of η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} are studied with both model-dependent and model-independent approaches. The contributions of ω and the ρ(770)-ω interference are observed for the first time in the decays η^{'}→γπ^{+}π^{-} in both approaches. Additionally, a contribution from the box anomaly or the ρ(1450) resonance is required in the model-dependent approach, while the process specific part of the decay amplitude is determined in the model-independent approach.

Sumoylation in Cellular Senescence and Aging

Sumoylation is a reversible post-translational modification that conjugates small peptide SUMO (small ubiquitin-like modifier) to a target protein. Global protein sumoylation and expression of components in sumoylation pathway were recently found to be altered in the process of organismal aging. In addition, key factors controlling cellular senescence are known to be sumoylated. This review will summarize current information on the function of sumoylation in cellular senescence and aging.

Precision Measurement of the e^{+}e^{-}→Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} Cross Section Near Threshold

The cross section of the e^{+}e^{-}→Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} process is measured with unprecedented precision using data collected with the BESIII detector at sqrt[s]=4574.5, 4580.0, 4590.0 and 4599.5 MeV. The nonzero cross section near the Λ_{c}^{+}Λ[over ¯]_{c}^{-} production threshold is cleared. At center-of-mass energies sqrt[s]=4574.5 and 4599.5 MeV, the higher statistics data enable us to measure the Λ_{c} polar angle distributions. From these, the Λ_{c} electric over magnetic form-factor ratios (|G_{E}/G_{M}|) are measured for the first time. They are found to be 1.14±0.14±0.07 and 1.23±0.05±0.03, respectively, where the first uncertainties are statistical and the second are systematic.

[Comparison of the prognostic value of the seventh and eighth edition of The AJCC Esophageal Cancer Staging System for the patients with stage Ⅱ and Ⅲesophageal squamous cell carcinoma]

Objective: To compare and evaluate the prognostic value of the 7(th) and 8(th) edition of The AJCC Esophageal Cancer Staging System for patients with stage Ⅱ and Ⅲ esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: The clinical data of 328 esophageal cancer patients who received operation at Department of Esophageal Cancer, Tianjin Tumour Hospital from January 2006 to December 2010 were restrospectively analyzed. There were 63 female and 265 male patients. The mean age was 65 (range: 33 to 87) years. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to identify the prognosis factors. Results: The five years overall survival rates among patients with stage Ⅱ and Ⅲ were both significantly different (χ(2)=87.035, 84.730, all P=0.000) according to the 7(th) and 8(th) editions of the TNM staging systems. The five years overall survival rate among patients with stage ⅡB and ⅢA were significantly different (39.6% vs 23.4%, P=0.001) according to the 7(th) edition of the esophageal cancer staging systems.According to the 8(th) edition of the esophageal cancer staging system, the 5 years survival rate of patients with stage ⅡA and ⅡB, ⅢB and Ⅳ was statistically significant (58.5% vs. 35.5%, P=0.040; 18.9% vs. 0, P=0.000). In multivariate analysis, tumor size, T staging, N staging and tumor differentiation (HR=1.592, 95%CI: 1.185 to 2.139, P=0.002; HR=1.519, 95% CI: 1.236 to 1.867, P=0.000; HR=1.647, 95% CI: 1.448 to 1.874, P=0.000; HR=1.404, 95% CI: 1.059 to 1.861, P=0.018) were the main independent prognosis factors affecting the prognosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients. Conclusions: Both the 7(th) and the 8(th) editions of TNM staging systems are able to reflect the clinical prognosis of patients receiving radical resection of esophageal cancer, and the factors of tumor size, differentiaton, invasion depth and lymph node metastases are the independent predictors of prognosis. The 8(th) edition provides a more detailed and more reasonable for the staging of stage Ⅱ and Ⅲ for esophageal cancer patients than the 7(th) edition, and it is more accurate for the prognosis of patients with esophageal cancer after surgery.

[Focusing on the ocular surface problems induced by cosmetology]

Making oneself more beautiful has always been part of humans' civilized life. Accordingly, the side effects of various cosmetic product and cosmetic procedure long exist. The ocular-surface problems induced by cosmetology mainly include cornea and conjunctiva damages, and tear film damages. Specifically, cornea and conjunctiva damage included: (1) physical injury caused by nonstandard operational procedure, (2) toxic and side effect of cosmetic product, and (3) infection induced by using cosmetic contact lenses, while tear film damage included: (1) injury of normal eyelid structure, (2) decrease of tear production from lacrimal gland, and (3) function and morphology injury of meibomian gland. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2018, 54: 84-86).

Knowledge-Based Medical Image Analysis and Representation for Integrating Content Definition with the Radiological Report

Technology breakthroughs in high-speed, high-capacity, and high performance desk-top computers and workstations make the possibility of integrating multimedia medical data to better support clinical decision making, computer-aided education, and research not only attractive, but feasible. To systematically evaluate results from increasingly automated image segmentation it is necessary to correlate them with the expert judgments of radiologists and other clinical specialists interpreting the images. These are contained in increasingly computerized radiological reports and other related clinical records. But to make automated comparison feasible it is necessary to first ensure compatibility of the knowledge content of images with the descriptions contained in these records. Enough common vocabulary, language, and knowledge representation components must be represented on the computer, followed by automated extraction of image-content descriptions from the text, which can then be matched to the results of automated image segmentation. A knowledge-based approach to image segmentation is essential to obtain the structured image descriptions needed for matching against the expert’s descriptions. We have developed a new approach to medical image analysis which helps generate such descriptions: a knowledge-based object-centered hierarchical planning method for automatically composing the image analysis processes. The problem-solving steps of specialists are represented at the knowledge level in terms of goals, tasks, and domain objects and concepts separately from the implementation level for specific representations of different image types, and generic analysis methods. This system can serve as a major functional component in incrementally building and updating a structured and integrated hybrid information system of patient data. This approach has been tested for magnetic resonance image interpretation, and has achieved promising results.

Genetic epidemiology of porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus circulating in China in 2012-2017 based on spike gene

A porcine epidemic diarrhoea outbreak first occurred in southern China at the end of 2010 and afterwards the disease spread throughout the country. Spike gene is divergent and important for understanding the genetic relations of porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus field strains, the epidemiological status of the virus and vaccine development. In this study, S1 regions of spike gene of 1,235 selected strains collected from 2012 to 2017 in China were clustered along with 25 references of spike sequences mainly from China. The phylogenetic analysis demonstrates that these sequences of S1 regions were genetically more diverse with time. In all strains, G1a, G1b, G2a and G2b clusters accounted for 1.9%, 9.6%, 32.2% and 56.3%, respectively, namely G2a and G2b were the two most prevalent clusters in China. Furthermore, we made a more detailed classification for G2 group based on phylogenetic tree, in which G2a was divided into two subgroups, and G2b was separated into four subgroups.