Immunofluorescence analysis of human eosinophils.

A prominent inflammatory cell type in allergic diseases is the eosinophil, a granulated white blood cell that releases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Eosinophil-derived cytokines, including interleukin-9 (IL-9) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), can skew the immune response towards an allergic phenotype. Unfortunately, it is challenging to immunolabel and collect quantifiable images of eosinophils given their innate autofluorescence and ability to nonspecifically bind to antibodies.

Adherence to Anticoagulation Interruption Guidelines in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation.

Introduction: Annually, 15% of patients who receive oral anticoagulation require interruption for surgery or an invasive procedure. This study evaluates the adherence of patients with atrial fibrillation with a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack to the Thrombosis Canada Perioperative guidelines for the discontinuation and reinitiation of anticoagulation treatment.

Methods: We collected data from a prospective patient survey at the Stroke Prevention Clinic in the University of Alberta hospital.

Cytokine trafficking of IL-9 and IL-13 through TfnRc vesicles in activated human eosinophils.

Eosinophils are granulocytes that are elevated in lung mucosa in approximately half of patients with allergic asthma. These highly granulated cells can synthesize and secrete many cytokines, including IL-9 and IL-13. We hypothesized that IL-9 and IL-13 are found as preformed mediators in crystalloid granules and secreted using distinct trafficking pathways.