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Hui CL, Honer WG, Lee EH, Chang WC, Chan SK, Chen ES, Pang EP, Lui SS, Chung DW, Yeung WS, Ng RM, Lo WT, Jones PB, Sham P, Chen EY. Predicting first-episode psychosis patients who will never relapse over 10 years. Psychol Med 2019; 49:2206-2214. [PMID: 30375301 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291718003070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although relapse in psychosis is common, a small proportion of patients will not relapse in the long term. We examined the proportion and predictors of patients who never relapsed in the 10 years following complete resolution of positive symptoms from their first psychotic episode. METHOD Patients who previously enrolled in a 12-month randomized controlled trial on medication discontinuation and relapse following first-episode psychosis (FEP) were followed up after 10 years. Relapse of positive symptoms was operationalized as a change from a Clinical Global Impression scale positive score of <3 for at least 3 consecutive months to a score of ⩾3 (mild or more severe). Baseline predictors included basic demographics, premorbid functioning, symptoms, functioning, and neurocognitive functioning. RESULTS Out of 178 first-episode patients, 37 (21%) never relapsed during the 10-year period. Univariate predictors (p ⩽ 0.1) of patients who never relapsed included a duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) ⩽30 days, diagnosed with non-schizophrenia spectrum disorders, having less severe negative symptoms, and performing better in logical memory immediate recall and verbal fluency tests. A multivariate logistic regression analysis further suggested that the absence of any relapsing episodes was significantly related to better short-term verbal memory, shorter DUP, and non-schizophrenia spectrum disorders. CONCLUSIONS Treatment delay and neurocognitive function are potentially modifiable predictors of good long-term prognosis in FEP. These predictors are informative as they can be incorporated into an optimum risk prediction model in the future, which would help with clinical decision making regarding maintenance treatment in FEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy Lm Hui
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - William G Honer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Edwin Hm Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - W C Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Sherry Kw Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Emily Sm Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Edwin Pf Pang
- Department of Psychiatry, United Christian Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Simon Sy Lui
- Department of Psychiatry, Castle Peak Hospital, Hong Kong
| | | | - W S Yeung
- Department of Psychiatry, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Roger Mk Ng
- Department of Psychiatry, Kowloon Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - William Tl Lo
- Department of Psychiatry, Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Peter B Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
| | - Pak Sham
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Centre for Genomic Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Eric Yh Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Lo WT, Ng KF, Chan SC, Kwok VW, Fong CS, Chan ST, Wong GC, Fong WC. Intravenous stroke thrombolysis after reversal of dabigatran effect by idarucizumab: first reported case in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Med J 2018; 24:81-3. [PMID: 29424347 DOI: 10.12809/hkmj166231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- W T Lo
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - K F Ng
- Department of Accident and Emergency, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - S Ch Chan
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - V Wy Kwok
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - C S Fong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - S T Chan
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - G Ck Wong
- Department of Accident and Emergency, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - W C Fong
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
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Tew KS, Siao YJ, Liu PJ, Lo WT, Meng PJ. Taiwanese marine microbenthic algal communities remain similar yet chlorophyll a concentrations rise in mesocosms with elevated CO 2 and temperature. Mar Pollut Bull 2017; 124:929-937. [PMID: 28669477 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.06.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The effects of increasing CO2 concentrations and temperature on microalgal assemblages were examined in Taiwan using mesocosms that simulate coral reef ecosystem. We assessed changes in abundance and diversity of benthic algae grown at 25°C and 28°C, under ambient (~400μatm) and at high CO2 conditions (800-1000μatm). Total alkalinity, pCO2, and the aragonite saturation state, were all significantly different between control and high CO2 treatments in both temperature treatments. Chl a concentration increased significantly in CO2-treated groups at 25°C, but benthic microalgal abundance was not significantly different. The number of microalgal species and the microalgal community structure did not differ between control and CO2-treated groups at both temperatures. Our results suggest that increasing CO2 may boost benthic microalgal primary productivity if sufficient nutrients are available, although site-specific responses are difficult to predict.
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Tew
- National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium, Taiwan; National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan.
| | - Y J Siao
- National Sun Yat-sen University, Taiwan
| | - P J Liu
- National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium, Taiwan; National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan.
| | - W T Lo
- National Sun Yat-sen University, Taiwan
| | - P J Meng
- National Museum of Marine Biology & Aquarium, Taiwan; National Dong Hwa University, Taiwan
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Kwok CL, Lee CK, Lo WT, Yip PS. The Contribution of Ageing to Hospitalisation Days in Hong Kong: A Decomposition Analysis. Int J Health Policy Manag 2017; 6:155-164. [PMID: 28812795 PMCID: PMC5337253 DOI: 10.15171/ijhpm.2016.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Ageing has become a serious challenge in Hong Kong and globally. It has serious implications for health expenditure, which accounts for nearly 20% of overall government expenditure. Here we assess the contribution of ageing and related factors to hospitalisation days in Hong Kong. We used hospital discharge data from all publicly funded hospitals in Hong Kong between 2001 and 2012.
Methods: A decomposition method was used to examine the factors that account for the change of total hospitalisation days during the two periods, 2001-2004 and 2004-2012. The five factors include two demographic factors – population size and age-gender composition – and three service components – hospital discharge rate, number of discharge episodes per patient, and average length of stay (LOS) – which are all measured at age-gender group level. In order to assess the health cost burden in the future, we also project the total hospitalisation days up to 2041, for a range of scenarios.
Results: During the decreasing period of hospitalisation days (2001-2004), the reduction of LOS contributed to about 60% of the reduction. For the period of increase (2004-2012), ageing is associated with an increase in total hospitalisation days of 1.03 million, followed by an increase in hospital discharge rates (0.67 million), an increase in the number of discharge episodes per patient (0.62 million), and population growth (0.43 million). The reduction of LOS has greatly offset these increases (-2.19 million days), and has become one of the most significant factors in containing the increasing number of hospitalisation days. Projected increases in total hospitalisation days under different scenarios have highlighted that the contribution of ageing will become even more prominent after 2022.
Conclusion: Hong Kong is facing increasing healthcare burden caused by the rapid increase in demand for inpatient services due to ageing. Better management of inpatient services with the aim of increasing efficiency and reducing LOS, avoidable hospitalisation and readmission, without compromising patient satisfaction and quality of service, are crucial for containing the rapid and enormous increases in total hospitalisation days for Hong Kong. The results would be relevant to many rapidly ageing societies in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Leung Kwok
- HKJC Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - Carmen Km Lee
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
| | - William Tl Lo
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hospital Authority, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong
| | - Paul Sf Yip
- HKJC Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.,Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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Yick KL, Tse LT, Lo WT, Ng SP, Yip J. Effects of indoor slippers on plantar pressure and lower limb EMG activity in older women. Appl Ergon 2016; 56:153-159. [PMID: 27184323 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2016.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Revised: 03/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Open-toe mule slippers are popular footwear worn at home especially by older women. However, their biomechanical effects are still poorly understood. The objective of this study is to therefore evaluate the physical properties of two typical types of open-toe mule slippers and the changes in plantar pressure and lower limb muscle activity of older women when wearing these slippers. Five walking trials have been carried out by ten healthy women. The results indicate that compared to barefoot, wearing slippers results in significant increases in the contact area of the mid-foot regions which lead to plantar pressure redistribution from metatarsal heads 2-3 and the lateral heel to the midfoot regions. However, there is no significant difference in the selected muscle activity across all conditions. The findings enhance our understanding of slipper features associated with changes in biomechanical measures thereby providing the basis of slipper designs for better foot protection and comfort.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Yick
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong.
| | - L T Tse
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - W T Lo
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - S P Ng
- Hong Kong Community College, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - J Yip
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
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Lo WT, Wong DP, Yick KL, Ng SP, Yip J. Effects of custom-made textile insoles on plantar pressure distribution and lower limb EMG activity during turning. J Foot Ankle Res 2016; 9:22. [PMID: 27418948 PMCID: PMC4944460 DOI: 10.1186/s13047-016-0154-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Turning during locomotion involves considerable changes of the body’s center of mass and reduced stability, as well as lower limb kinematics and kinetics. However, many previous studies have been carried out to evaluate the effectiveness and applications of orthotic insoles as well as different types of orthotic materials in various clinical symptoms, which are focused primarily on straight line walking. Hence, the influence of custom-made insoles with the use of advanced three-dimensional spacer fabrics on biomechanics parameters in terms of plantar pressure distribution and lower limb electromyography during turning movement was studied. Methods Twelve subjects performed 180-degree turning at a speed 3.07-3.74 km/h for five successful trials under 3 insoles conditions: wearing traditional ethylene vinyl acetate insoles and two different spacer-fabricated insoles, with the plantar pressure and lower limb muscle activity collected simultaneously. Turning movement was broken down into 3 phases for analysis: Turning initiation, turn around and turn termination. Results There was a statistically significance difference in plantar pressure between the traditional insoles and the insoles made of a spacer fabric as the top layer (p < 0.05). Compared to the traditional insoles, insoles made of a spacer fabric reduced the peak pressure (>12 %) and pressure–time integral (>13 %) in toes, metatarsal head 1 and metatarsal heads 2–3 at turning initiation; (>15 %) and (>17 %) in medial midfoot and medial heel at turn around. Insoles with spacer fabrics on the top and middle layer reduced both pressure parameters (>18 %) in toes and MTH 1 at turn termination. In terms of muscle activities, insoles with two-layer spacer fabrics could lower maximum muscle activities of vastus lateralis (>16 %; p < 0.05) at turn around. Conclusions Insoles with different fabrications could offer various pressure offloading patterns across the plantar and muscle activity changes while turning. Insoles with a spacer fabric on the top tend to reduce plantar pressure loading at different regions during turn initiation and turn around phases, while two-layer spacer-fabricated insoles may contribute to reduced vastus lateralis muscle activation during turn around. More importantly, this study provides a new dimension in the potential use of the textile-fabricated insoles which may widen the range of insole materials selection in the design and development of insoles so as to enhance the effectiveness of orthotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- W T Lo
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - D P Wong
- Human Performance Laboratory, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hung Hom, Hong Kong ; Sports Therapy Centre, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - K L Yick
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - S P Ng
- Hong Kong Community College, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
| | - J Yip
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong
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Gao F, Lo WT, Sun X, Mo DP, Ma N, Miao ZR. Combined Use of Mechanical Thrombectomy with Angioplasty and Stenting for Acute Basilar Occlusions with Underlying Severe Intracranial Vertebrobasilar Stenosis: Preliminary Experience from a Single Chinese Center. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2015; 36:1947-52. [PMID: 26089317 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a4364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Acute basilar occlusions have a poor prognosis without recanalization. Many have underlying severe atherosclerotic intracranial stenosis coexisting with acute thrombosis, requiring treatment of both pathologies in the same session, though technical risks may be encountered. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the technical feasibility and safety of combined treatment by using stent retrievers for the thrombosis, together with angioplasty and stent placement for the underlying stenosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective review of 13 patients with basilar occlusions treated with thrombectomy by the Solitaire stent retriever and angioplasty and intracranial stent placement for underlying severe vertebrobasilar stenosis in the same session. Reperfusion was assessed in terms of the TICI score. Perioperative complications were recorded. Clinical outcomes were assessed by the NIHSS at discharge and the mRS on follow-up at 90 days. RESULTS Of the 30 patients with acute basilar artery occlusions treated with stent retrievers during the study period, 18 had coexisting severe intracranial stenosis. Thirteen patients meeting the criteria for our study received combined mechanical thrombectomy and angioplasty with stent placement. The successful recanalization rate was 100%. Distal vessel embolizations occurred in 3 patients. There were 2 mortalities. On discharge, 10 patients (77%) had an improvement in NIHSS of ≥10 points. At 90 days, 6 patients (46%) had a good functional outcome with an mRS of ≤2. CONCLUSIONS The combined use of mechanical thrombectomy with angioplasty and stent placement for acute basilar occlusions with underlying severe intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis is technically feasible and safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Gao
- From the Department of Interventional Neurology (F.G., X.S., D.P.M., N.M., Z.R.M.), Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases; Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders; Beijing, China
| | - W T Lo
- Department of Medicine (W.T.L.), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - X Sun
- From the Department of Interventional Neurology (F.G., X.S., D.P.M., N.M., Z.R.M.), Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases; Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders; Beijing, China
| | - D P Mo
- From the Department of Interventional Neurology (F.G., X.S., D.P.M., N.M., Z.R.M.), Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases; Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders; Beijing, China
| | - N Ma
- From the Department of Interventional Neurology (F.G., X.S., D.P.M., N.M., Z.R.M.), Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases; Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders; Beijing, China
| | - Z R Miao
- From the Department of Interventional Neurology (F.G., X.S., D.P.M., N.M., Z.R.M.), Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University; China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases; Center of Stroke, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders; Beijing, China
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Fong WC, Lo WT, Ng YW, Cheung YF, Wong GCK, Ho HF, Chan JHM, Li PCK. The benefit of prothrombin complex concentrate in decreasing neurological deterioration in patients with warfarin-associated intracerebral haemorrhage. Hong Kong Med J 2014; 20:486-94. [PMID: 25377298 DOI: 10.12809/hkmj144246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the outcomes of patients with warfarin-associated intracerebral haemorrhage given different treatments to reverse the effect of anticoagulation. DESIGN Historical cohort study. SETTING A regional hospital in Hong Kong. PATIENTS Patients on warfarin who developed intracerebral haemorrhage. INTERVENTIONS Prothrombin complex concentrate versus fresh frozen plasma treatment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measures included the international normalised ratio before and after prothrombin complex concentrate treatment and the neurological deterioration in patients with Glasgow Coma Scale score of more than 8/not intubated/not planned for immediate surgery (target group). Secondary outcome measures were haematoma expansion, 7-day and 30-day mortality rates, and 3-month functional outcome. Safety outcome was the occurrence of a thrombotic event after prothrombin complex concentrate treatment within the index admission. RESULTS Among 33 patients with clearly documented time of infusion of prothrombin complex concentrate, and whose international normalised ratio was checked before and after prothrombin complex concentrate treatment, the mean international normalised ratio was reduced from 2.81 to 1.21 within 24 hours. Within the target group of patients, there was a significantly lower rate of neurological deterioration in the prothrombin complex concentrate group (17.4% of 23 patients) versus fresh frozen plasma group (45.5% of 33 patients) [P=0.027]. In terms of the 7-day mortality, 30-day mortality, and 3-month functional outcome, prothrombin complex concentrate-treated group showed a favourable trend although the difference did not reach a statistical significance. No patient developed thrombotic complications after prothrombin complex concentrate treatment. CONCLUSIONS Prothrombin complex concentrates can reverse the warfarin effect of prolonged international normalised ratio in a timely manner. It might better improve the outcome of warfarin-associated intracerebral haemorrhage compared with fresh frozen plasma treatment by reduction in neurological deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- W C Fong
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - W T Lo
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - Y W Ng
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - Y F Cheung
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - Gordon C K Wong
- Department of Accident and Emergency, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - H F Ho
- Department of Accident and Emergency, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - John H M Chan
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
| | - Patrick C K Li
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Jordan, Hong Kong
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Hsieh HY, Lo WT, Liu DC, Su WC. Influence of hydrographic features on larval fish distribution during the south-westerly monsoon in the waters of Taiwan, western North Pacific Ocean. J Fish Biol 2010; 76:2521-2539. [PMID: 20557606 DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2010.02643.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The spatial distribution patterns of fish larvae and the relationships with hydrographic conditions in the waters surrounding Taiwan were studied in August 2004 when the south-westerly monsoon prevailed. A total of 6566 fish larvae were identified, belonging to 80 families, 129 genera and 230 species. Cluster analysis revealed two station groups, one associated with the South China Sea Surface Current (SCSSC) and the other with the Kuroshio Current (KC). The SCSSC group was characterized by mostly coastal and neritic species, and the KC group was predominated by oceanic species. Larger fish larvae were generally more abundant in the neritic waters west of Taiwan where the SCSSC prevails than in the waters east of Taiwan where the KC prevails. The combination of chlorophyll a, zooplankton and nitrite best explained the relationship of larval fish distribution and environmental variables, implying that the distribution of fish larvae in summer was closely linked to the food source. The changing of monsoons potentially affects the succession of water masses and the transport and assemblage of fish larvae in this study area.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Y Hsieh
- Institute of Marine Biotechnology and Resources, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan 804, Republic of China
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Lever R, Lo WT, Faraidoun M, Amin V, Brown RA, Gallagher J, Page CP. Size-fractionated heparins have differential effects on human neutrophil function in vitro. Br J Pharmacol 2007; 151:837-43. [PMID: 17533420 PMCID: PMC2014115 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjp.0707298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Heparin is known to possess a range of activities, other than effects on blood coagulation, many of which are anti-inflammatory. Effects with potential anti-inflammatory applications include the inhibition of elastase release from neutrophils, as well as the adhesion of these cells to vascular endothelium. In the present study we aimed to investigate whether fractionation of heparin may yield molecules with enhanced or specific effects on human neutrophil function. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Fractions of defined molecular size were obtained from heparin by different methods and assessed for their effects on elastase release induced by formyl Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP), from neutrophils, in some cases following the priming of these cells with tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). Effects of the fractions on neutrophil adhesion to interleukin-1beta (IL-beta)-stimulated human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were also examined. KEY RESULTS Elastase release was inhibited by very low molecular weight fractions of heparin, with an apparent minimum chain length of 10 saccharides required for full effect. In contrast, neutrophil-endothelial adhesion was unaffected by these fractionated heparins, suggesting that certain non-anticoagulant actions of heparin may be lost by such an approach. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest that an optimum chain length of heparin possibly exists for certain non-anticoagulant actions of heparin, which may prove to be useful in the design of novel drugs with specific anti-inflammatory actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Lever
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of London, London, UK.
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11
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Abstract
Retropharyngeal cellulitis/abscess has not been recognized as a manifestation of group B streptococcal disease in the pediatric group beyond neonates. The purpose of this paper is to present a previously healthy 3-year-old boy with a retropharyngeal abscess due to group B Streptococcus which was successfully treated by surgical incision and drainage in combination with amoxicillin/clavulanate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- W T Lo
- Dept. of Pediatrics, Tri-Service General Hospital, Neihu, Taipei, Taiwan
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess midtrimester uterine artery Doppler in the prediction of preeclampsia and small for gestational age (SGA) infants in women with primary antiphospholipid syndrome. METHODS One hundred seventy pregnant women with histories of recurrent miscarriage in association with antiphospholipid antibodies (32 lupus anticoagulant positive, 47 IgG anticardiolipin positive, 78 IgM anticardiolipin positive, and 13 lupus anticoagulant and anticardiolipin antibodies positive) treated with low-dose aspirin and heparin were recruited prospectively. Doppler assessment of the uterine arteries (presence or absence of notches and pulsatility index) were performed at 16-18 and 22-24 weeks. The main outcome measures were the delivery of a SGA infant and the development of preeclampsia. RESULTS There were 164 live births and six midtrimester losses. The prevalence of preeclampsia and SGA was similar at 10%. In predicting preeclampsia or SGA, uterine artery pulsatility index at either interval was of no value, and the diagnostic accuracy of the Doppler was limited to bilateral uterine artery notches at 22-24 weeks in the subgroup of women with positive lupus anticoagulant. In this subgroup, bilateral uterine artery notches at 22-24 weeks in predicting preeclampsia generated a high likelihood ratio for positive test (12.8, 95% confidence interval 2.2, 75), sensitivity (75%), specificity (94%), positive (75%) and negative (94%) predictive value. In predicting SGA, the corresponding figures were respectively 13.6 (95% confidence interval 1.9, 96), 80%, 94%, 80%, 94%. Uterine artery Doppler was of limited value in pregnancies associated with anticardiolipin antibodies in isolation. CONCLUSION In pregnancies associated with lupus anticoagulant, uterine artery Doppler at 22-24 weeks is a useful screening test in predicting preeclampsia and SGA infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Venkat-Raman
- Department of Reproductive Science and Medicine, Imperial College School of Medicine at St. Mary's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Compelling scene movements in a virtual reality (VR) system can cause symptoms of motion sickness (i.e., cybersickness). A within-subject experiment has been conducted to investigate the effects of scene oscillations along different axes on the level of cybersickness. Sixteen male participants were exposed to four 20-min VR simulation sessions. The four sessions used the same virtual environment but with scene oscillations along different axes, i.e., pitch, yaw, roll, or no oscillation (speed: 30 degrees/s, range: +/- 60 degrees). Verbal ratings of the level of nausea were taken at 5-min intervals during the sessions and sickness symptoms were also measured before and after the sessions using the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ). In the presence of scene oscillation, both nausea ratings and SSQ scores increased at significantly higher rates than with no oscillation. While individual participants exhibited different susceptibilities to nausea associated with VR simulation containing scene oscillations along different rotational axes, the overall effects of axis among our group of 16 randomly selected participants were not significant. The main effects of, and interactions among, scene oscillation, duration, and participants are discussed in the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- W T Lo
- Department of of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon
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Abstract
This study investigated the effects of navigation speed on the level of motion sickness during and after a 30-min head-steered virtual environment. Root-mean-squares for 8 speeds in the fore-and-aft axis were 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 24, 30, and 59 m/s. Participants were 96 Chinese men. Both the nausea and vection ratings increased significantly with speeds increasing from 3 m/s to 10 m/s. At speeds exceeding 10 m/s, the ratings stabilized. Navigation speeds were found to significantly affect the onset times of vection and nausea but did not affect their rates of increase with duration of exposure. For the various Simulator Sickness Questionnaire scores, navigation speed had a significant influence on only the oculomotor subscore. Actual or potential applications of this research include the prediction of sickness associated with simulation tours in a virtual environment at different navigation speeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H So
- Department of Industrial Engineering and Engineering Management, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon.
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- W T Lo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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16
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Lo WT, Wang CC, Hsu ML, Chu ML. Pyogenic liver abscess caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a previously healthy child: report of one case. Acta Paediatr Taiwan 2000; 41:98-100. [PMID: 10927948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA), a very uncommon liver disease in the normal pediatric group is often associated with immunocompromised conditions. Pseudomonas aeruginosa has long been regarded as a relatively rare pathogen of PLA, especially in patients without underlying problems. A previously healthy one-year-and-seven-month-old boy who had symptoms of fever, vomiting and diarrhea got a liver abscess at right hepatic lobe which was confirmed by abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) diagnoses. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration of liver abscess was done soon after the confirmation. The culture result of aspirate grew P. aeruginosa. The patient received a 4-week course of adequate antibiotics treatment after the aforementioned aspiration procedure. In addition, a series of ultrasounds were performed to follow the resolution of abscess during the treatment period. The immune function tests of the patient were within normal ranges. Finally, the lesion resolved completely without leaving any complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- W T Lo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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17
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Chao C, Lin HE, Lo WT, Hung SY. Bilateral simultaneous transaxillary sympathectomy in treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis: report of 60 cases. J Formos Med Assoc 1990; 89:403-5. [PMID: 1977853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bilateral simultaneous transaxillary sympathectomies (BSTS) were established in order to achieve a one-stage transaxillary sympathectomy in the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis. The features of the BSTS were the patient's supine operative position, parapectoral incision, and bilateral simultaneous procedures. BSTS were safely performed on 60 patients during a 5-year period. No serious complications or recurrences were encountered. The clinical results suggest that BSTS is the technique of choice for one-stage transaxillary sympathectomy in the treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Chao
- Department of Surgery, Naval General Hospital, Tsoying, Kaohsiung
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