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Four-dimensional diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging for stereotactic body radiation therapy in patients with abdominal cancer: abridged secondary publication. Hong Kong Med J 2023; 29 Suppl 7:18-23. [PMID: 38148651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
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Innovative technology for evaluation of sperm DNA double-strand breaks diagnoses male factor infertility and prevents reproductive failures. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18996. [PMID: 37923811 PMCID: PMC10624885 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46049-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutral comet assay has been available for two decades to evaluate sperm double-strand breaks (DSBs). However, its clinical usability is limited due to its complex and time-consuming procedure, as well as the lack of a standardized scoring system. The aim of this study was to: develop a rapid diagnostic method for DSBs, Sperm DNA Fragmentation Releasing Assay (SDFR), and explore the association between DSBs and reproductive outcomes. We pioneered the use of polyacrylamide (PA) for embedding sperm chromatin and optimized the porosity of PA to be between 10 and 13%. The refined PA network allowed the trapping of DSBs, which dispersed halo on an immunological slide; in contrast, intact chromatin failed to develop a halo. A strong correlation was showed between reproducible values obtained from SDFR and neutral comet assay. SDFR were responsive to dose-/time-dependent simulated DSBs, indicating high sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, we conducted a retrospective study of couples with embryonic aneuploidy screening, and recording DSB profiles of the male partners. Our findings revealed that DSB enabled to predict embryonic aneuploidy whereas basic semen parameters did not. In conclusion, SDFR offers a rapid and user-friendly approach for evaluating DSBs, with potential implications for predictive healthcare in reproductive medicine.
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Comparison of puncture methods in patients with hemodialysis: A randomized controlled trial. Semin Dial 2023; 36:454-461. [PMID: 36726291 DOI: 10.1111/sdi.13142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Arteriovenous fistula or arteriovenous graft is essential to long-term survival and quality of life in patients receiving hemodialysis. To date, no research has examined the clinical impacts of different puncture methods. This study compared the rope ladder and area puncture techniques in terms of vascular patency, pain, and quality of life among patients receiving hemodialysis. METHODS A prospective longitudinal study was performed with 6-month follow-up. A total of 98 participants recruited from a hemodialysis center in Taiwan were randomly assigned to receive the rope ladder technique (experimental group) or the area puncture technique (control group). Vascular patency was assessed by examining access flow and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty rate. Pain and quality of life were measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Kidney Disease Quality of Life Instrument (KDQOL-36™), respectively. All outcome variables were measured repeatedly and analyzed using a generalized estimating equation. RESULTS Overall, quality of life was significantly better for the experimental group than for the control group (β = 47.23, p < 0.001). The percutaneous transluminal angioplasty rate was lower for the experimental group than for the control group (12.0% vs. 18.8%). However, no significant differences were found in access flow and pain level between the two groups over time. CONCLUSION Hemodialysis patients who received the rope ladder puncture technique had a lower percutaneous angioplasty rate and better quality of life than patients who received the area puncture technique, suggesting that the rope ladder technique could be implemented as a routine cannulation method in hemodialysis clinics.
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Exploring the Benefits of 3D-Printed Bolus in Cone Beam CT for Modified Radical Mastectomy Breast Cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:e685. [PMID: 37786014 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.06.2152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) To improve the accuracy of superficial dose coverage for patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy (MRM), boluses are frequently applied to the skin surface of targeted region during radiotherapy. The irregular curvature of MRM breast cases results in discrepancies of dosimetry and poor contact. Additionally, the presence of an air gap causes unnecessary high-dose escalation and uncertainty in dose calculation, making the use of commercial flat bolus problematic. This study evaluated the effectiveness of 3D-printed bolus by comparing it to commercial bolus in setup variations and dosimetric compliance through daily cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. MATERIALS/METHODS Ten patients underwent MRM were divided into 2 groups. 5 patients treated with 0.5 cm commercial bolus as group A while the other 5 patients covered by 3D Bolus as group B. 3D bolus was made of polylactic acid filament (PLA) and contoured in advance with thickness of 0.5 cm on the surface of target. Positional errors were recorded through daily image guidance and compared with the images. Both groups had right-sided breast with neck lymph nodes involved and received 50 Gy in 25 fractions using 4 partial arcs of the volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique. The CBCTs were recalculated through treatment planning system (TPS) to assess superficial dose coverage. A two-tailed student's t-test was applied. RESULTS Groups A and B pitch angles were -0.203 ± 0.837° and 0.334 ± 0.909° (p = 0.0003). Roll angle were 0.313 ± 0.728° and -0.633 ± 1.286° (p = 0.0000013). Yaw angle were -0.034 ± 0.872° and 0.018 ± 0.883° (p = 0.721). There was a trend of differences in the Z-axis and significant statistical differences in the pitch and roll angles due to aligning gel layers directly with group A's body surface, while 3D bolus rigidly adherence to group B's delineated curve. In the planned target volume (PTV), the CI and HI of group A were 0.9448±0.0208 and 1.2061±0.0448, respectively, while 0.9776±0.0144 and 1.1472±0.0206 (p<0.005) were for group B. As for the superficial region, which is defined from body surface to 0.5cm inside PTV, CI and HI of A were 0.8290±0.0599 and 1.4675±0.2434, while for B, they were 0.9753±0.0214 and 1.1330±0.0126, respectively (p<0.005). CONCLUSION The study analyzed the results through image comparison and investigated the CI and HI between two types of boluses. The 3D bolus reduces setup errors and improves dose coverage especially when superficial region is concerned. Better consistency of patient repositioning and dosimetry can be achieved and proved by daily assessment of CBCT scan. The customization of 3D bolus with integration of TPS and CT scans provides a solution to the inadequacies of commercial bolus. The results suggest that the use of 3D bolus is a promising development in radiation therapy for MRM breast cancer patients.
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Development and integration of LensHooke ® R10 for automatic and standardized diagnosis for sperm DNA fragmentation. Andrology 2023; 11:1337-1344. [PMID: 36869577 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sperm chromatin dispersion assay is commonly used to assess sperm DNA integrity. This approach is time-consuming, demonstrates poor chromatin preservation, and provides an ambiguous and unstandardized evaluation of fragmented chromatin. OBJECTIVES We aimed to (i) develop an optimized sperm chromatin dispersion assay with reduced operation time, (ii) validate R10 test accuracy by comparing it to a conventional sperm chromatin dispersion assay, and (iii) standardize the sperm DNA fragmentation analysis procedure by integrating artificial intelligence optical microscopic technology. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-section study included 620 semen samples. Aliquots were analyzed by a conventional Halosperm® G2 assay (G2) and LensHooke® R10 assay (R10). The DNA fragmentation index was scored manually, and R10 slides were automatically determined by a LensHooke® X12 PRO semen analysis system (X12). RESULTS We demonstrated significant improvements in total assay time (40 vs. 72 min, p < 0.001) and in the halo-cytological resolution using R10 compared to G2. Comparing the G2 and R10, DNA fragmentation index results demonstrated good agreement between the two methods (Spearman's rank correlation, rho = 0.8517, p < 0.0001). We introduced the integration of an auto-calculation system to diagnose sperm DNA fragmentation. X12 interpretation showed excellent agreement with manual interpretation (Spearman's rank correlation, rho = 0.9323, p < 0.0001), but had a low coefficient of variation compared to manual interpretation (4% for R10 by X12 vs. 19% for R10 by manual scoring vs. 25% for G2 by manual scoring). DNA fragmentation index was more correlated with total motility (coefficients = -0.3607, p < 0.0001) than sperm morphology and was positively associated with asthenozoospermic semen samples (p = 0.0001). CONCLUSION The R10 sperm chromatin dispersion assay combined with the X12 semen analysis system is faster, more objective, and provides standardization for sperm DNA fragmentation.
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Live motile sperm sorting device for enhanced sperm-fertilization competency: comparative analysis with density-gradient centrifugation and microfluidic sperm sorting. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023:10.1007/s10815-023-02838-4. [PMID: 37300647 PMCID: PMC10371955 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02838-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A live motile sperm sorting device (LensHooke® CA0) developed to prevent the deleterious effects of centrifugation was evaluated comparatively with conventional density-gradient centrifugation (DGC) and microfluidic-based device (Zymot) in sperm selection. METHODS Semen samples from 239 men were collected. CA0 under different incubation intervals (5, 10, 30, and 60 min) and temperatures (20, 25, and 37℃) was conducted. The sperm quality in CA0-, DGC-, and Zymot-processed samples was then comparatively evaluated. Semen parameters included concentration, motility, morphology, motion kinematics, DNA fragmentation index (DFI), and the rate of acrosome-reacted sperm (AR). RESULTS Total motility and motile sperm concentration increased in a time- and temperature-dependent manner and the total motility peaked for 30 min at 37℃. In paired analysis, CA0 showed significantly higher total motility (94.0%), progressive motility (90.8%), rapid progressive motility (83.6%), normal morphology (10.3%), and lower DFI (2.4%) and AR (4.7%) than the other two methods in normozoospermic samples (all p < 0.05). For non-normozoospermic samples, CA0 had significantly better results than the other two methods (total motility 89.2%, progressive motility 80.4%, rapid progressive motility 74.2%, normal morphology 8.5%, DFI 4.0%, and AR 4.0%; all p < 0.05). CONCLUSION CA0 yielded spermatozoa with enhanced sperm fertilization potentials; DFI was minimized in samples processed by CA0. CA0 was effective for both normal and abnormal semen samples due to its consistent selection efficiency.
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Left ventricular apical aneurysm in Fabry disease: implications for clinical significance and risk stratification. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeab289.435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.
Background
More than 50% of patients with Fabry disease (FD) present with cardiac phenotype, and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is the most frequent manifestation. Among FD patients with LVH, a rare and novel presentation of left ventricular apical aneurysm (LVAA) has been reported.
Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the clinical incidence of LVAA and its impacts on prognosis among FD patients.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed 268 FD patients at a tertiary medical center between January 2003 to September 2020. Two patients with ischemic LVAA were excluded. LVH and LVAA were confirmed either by echocardiography (Figure 1A) or cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (Figure 1B). The primary endpoints were a composite of heart failure (HF) hospitalization, sustained ventricular tachycardia (VT), stroke, and death.
Results
Of 266 FD patients, there were 105 (39.5%) patients had LVH, and 11 (10.3%) of them had LVAAs (age 67.5 ± 9.5 years, 8 males [72.7%]). After a mean follow-up of 49.3 ± 34.8 months, 8 patients experienced primary endpoints, including 5 (45.5%) HF hospitalizations, 3 (27.3%) VT, 1 (9.1%) stroke, and 4 (36.4%) deaths. The risk for composite adverse events was significantly higher in patients with LVAA compared with those without (8 [72.7%] vs 17 [18.1%]), leading to significantly lower event-free survival in patients with LVAA (Log-Rank P < 0.001, Figure 2). The presence of LVAA was independently associated with an increased risk of composite adverse events (hazard ratio: 3.59; confidence interval: 1.30-9.91, P = 0.01) after adjusting for age, gender, advanced HF, renal function, dyslipidemia, atrial fibrillation, left ventricular ejection fraction of <40%, average E/e’, and LV mass index.
Conclusions
LVAA presents in around 10% of patients with Fabry cardiomyopathy and is strongly associated with an increased risk of adverse events. The identification of this phenotype would be useful to identify high-risk patients with Fabry cardiomyopathy, among whom more aggressive treatments may be considered. Abstract Figure. Apical aneurysm in Fabry cardiomyopathy Abstract Figure. KM curve of composite adverse events
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Social Support as a Mediator of the Relationship between Hope and Decisional Conflict in Patients Deciding Whether to Receive Dialysis. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2021; 2021:5607219. [PMID: 34630988 PMCID: PMC8494545 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5607219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background The incidence rate of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in Taiwan is the highest worldwide. Patients often hesitate and feel helpless when deciding whether to receive dialysis. However, the resulting delay in starting dialysis can potentially threaten patients' lives. Purpose This study aimed to understand the current situation and correlations between hope, social support, and decisional conflict among patients with ESRD deciding whether to receive dialysis. In addition, the role of social support as a mediating variable of the relationship between hope and decisional conflict was investigated. Methods This study was a cross-sectional, descriptive correlation study. Data, including demographic information, were collected from 85 patients with ESRD who were deciding whether to receive dialysis. Research tools included the Chinese versions of the Herth Hope Index, the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List, and the Decisional Conflict Scale. Results When deciding whether to receive dialysis, patients with ESRD felt a low sense of hope, a moderate degree of social support, and a moderate degree of decisional conflict. Hope was significantly correlated with social support and decisional conflict. Social support demonstrated a full mediating effect of 47.7% (P < 0.001). Conclusions Patients with ESRD facing the decision to receive dialysis felt a low sense of hope and exhibited decisional conflict. Social support was found to be a mediating variable of the relationship between hope and decisional conflict; therefore, medical personnel should increase the social support of patients with ESRD who are deciding whether to commence dialysis to promote patients' hope and reduce their decisional conflict.
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Pulmonary pressure-to-longitudinal strain ratio by echocardiography: a rapid surrogate to magnetic resonance for right ventricular failure assessment. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeaa356.398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): United Christian Hospital Ruttonjee and Tang Siu Kin Hospitals
Background
Better risk stratification in pulmonary hypertension (PH) by echocardiography (echo) to detect ventricular vascular uncoupling may act as gate-keeper for downstream management, such as MRI and expensive therapies. Studies showed modest correlation found between RV peak global longitudinal strain (RVGLS), which is afterload dependent, and right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF)
Purpose
To test the accuracy and optimal cut-off of echo derived mean PA pressure-to-RVGLS ratio against MRI detected severe RV dysfunction (defined as RVEF< 35%), RV dilatation (defined as RVEDVi >87ml), and correlate native T1-values (nT1)
Method
Strain analyses by echo and volumetric assessment by 1.5 tesla MRI were performed in all patients. Contoured MRI short axis images provided RVEF. In a subgroup of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), right heart catheterization and MRI non-contrast native T1 mapping were performed (Figure 1). Using previous study data, to identify a difference of 1.8 pressure-to-strain ratio between mild and severe PH with a variance of 2.2 , power of 80% and a significance level of 0.05, a total of 11 participants per group were needed
Result
Thirty-one PH patients (13 female, age 60 ± 14y, 13 had PAH) were recruited prospectively. Strong correlation was demonstrated between the mean PA pressure-to-RVGLS ratio to MRI derived RVEF (r = 0.80, p < 0.01), and to catheterization derived pulmonary vascular resistance and indexed cardiac output (r = -0.80, p= 0.001; r= -0.75, p = 0.003 respectively). The cut-off value of -2.5 had best accuracy in ROC analyses (Table 1)
In PAH patients, this ratio correlated with global nT1 at basal short-axis level (r= -0.91, p = 0.004), but not at the mid short-axis level. Their basal posterior interventricular insertion regions had significantly higher nT1 than those of age-matched normal controls at the same region on the same scanner (1256 ± 217 ms vs. 932 ± 25 ms, p = 0.04)
Conclusion
In terms of detection of severe right ventricular dysfunction by echocardiography, mean PA pressure-to-RVGLS ratio performed better than RVGLS alone, and a ratio cutoff of -2.5 predicts MRI determined ventricular vascular uncoupling in pulmonary hypertension
Table 1 Echo detect MRI AUC standard error 95% CI sens (%) spec (%) p Mean PA pressure -to-RVGLS ratio RVEF < 35% 0.86 0.073 0.71-1.00 72 83 0.007 RVEDVi > 87ml 0.81 0.081 0.65-0.97 83 70 0.004 RVGLS RVEF < 35% 0.76 0.100 0.57-0.96 60 83 0.048 RVEDVi > 87ml 0.73 0.090 0.55-0.91 67 70 0.032 PA pulmonary artery; RVGLS: RV global longitudinal strain; RVEDVi: indexed RV end-diastolic volume Abstract Figure 1
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P923Feasibility of the transcatheter mitral valve repair as the rescue therapy for patients with severe mitral regurgitation and endangered heart failure. Eur Heart J 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz747.0518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
For those who carry high or prohibitive surgical risk, the transcatheter edge-to edge mitral valve repair using MitraClip has been a safe and effective treatment for severe mitral regurgitation (MR). In patients with severe MR and cardiogenic shock under hemodynamic supporting devices, emergent surgical mitral valve interventions carry extremely high risk for peri-operative morbidities and mortalities. The feasibility and efficacy of emergent MitraClip to rescue patients in critical conditions remains elucidate.
Methods
Patients with severe MR were evaluated by the heart team and those with high or prohibitive surgical risks were referred to receive MitraClip procedures. Emergent MitraClip were conducted in patients with unstable hemodynamics and under mechanical or inotropic support. The hemodynamic measures, transthoracic echocardiography, transesophageal echocardiography, and blood tests were performed before MitraClip procedures. Procedural success was defined as having mild mitral regurgitation immediately after MitraClip, and patients were free from in-hospital mortality. Clinical and echocardiographic outcomes were followed by telephones and clinics.
Results
Among 50 consecutive patients (74.7±11.2 years, 74% male), 8 emergent MitraClip procedures were conducted to rescue patients with cardiogenic shock. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were used in 2 patients and intra-aortic balloon pump were applied in 4 patients (50%). The rest of 4 patients received continuous inotropic agent administration. Compare to those who underwent elective procedures, patients underwent emergent MitraClip had higher surgical risk profile (Euroscore II 34.8% vs 5.1% and STS score 19.7% vs 5.1%), poorer renal function and higher right atrial pressure. There was no peri-procedural death, myocardial infarction, stroke or any adverse events requiring emergent cardiac surgery in both groups. Mild mitral regurgitation was achieved in 87.5% patients from the emergent group and 95.2% patients in the elective group (P=0.514). In follow up, there were 5 deaths (three in the emergent group), including 2 non-cardiovascular deaths. The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed patients who underwent emergent procedures have poorer long-term survival rate as compare to those who received elective procedures. (P value = 0.008).
Conclusions
When open-heart surgery is not feasible and deferred due to excessive risk, trans-catheter mitral valve repair is an alternative way to rescue patients in cardiogenic shock status. The emergent MitraClip procedure may provide comparable safety and efficacy in treating patients with severe MR and unstable hemodynamics.
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Fluid Restriction for Treatment of “Fluid Creep” after Acute Burn Resuscitation. HONG KONG J EMERG ME 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/102490791402100404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Fluid creep in patients recovering from acute burns still exists, despite the use of a more treatment conservative approach. Most of our severe burn patients develop fluid overload and body weight increase after acute fluid resuscitation. How to quickly return patients to their pre-injury body weight is an important issue. Methods Right after acute fluid resuscitation, we applied a “total fluid requirement” volume (usually 1/2 to 2/3 of initial 24 hour volume) and strictly monitored patients' hourly urine (between 0.5-1 ml/kg/hr). Patients' responses (body weight, enteric feeding amount, pulmonary condition, etc.) were also closely monitored and frequent adjustments of fluid volume administration were performed simultaneously. Results Most patients regained their pre-injury body weight within 2-3 weeks. Enteric feeding also improved markedly. No patients had severe oedema-related complications. Conclusions Stricter fluid administration after acute burn fluid resuscitation is advised for allowing patients to reduce body weight to their pre-injury weight or at least close to it. We use pre-injury body weight, enteric feeding and urine output as our guides. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2014;21:222-229)
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Paddle Position and Contact Force: An Important Step to Check When Troubleshooting for Refractory Ventricular Fibrillation. HONG KONG J EMERG ME 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/102490791602300506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a lethal medical emergency that requires immediate defibrillation. VF is resistant when it persists after three or more defibrillator shocks. Successful defibrillation requires depolarisation of a critical mass of myocardium. Several variables, such as the length of time in VF, body type, total energy used, and energy waveform have been reported to be associated with the success rate of defibrillation. Correct paddle position and good contact force to create an adequate current flow through the heart is essential for defibrillation. We report a patient who developed VF because of acute myocardial infarction that was resistant to a total of 13 shocks. The cause of shock-resistant VF was diagnosed by noticing the skin marks caused by the defibrillator paddle that indicated incorrect paddle position and inadequate paddle force. By checking the skin marks, an emergency physician could make a correct diagnosis within a few seconds and save a patient.
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Validating Body Fat Assessment by Bioelectric Impedance Spectroscopy in Taiwanese Hemodialysis Patients. J Ren Nutr 2016; 27:37-44. [PMID: 27666944 DOI: 10.1053/j.jrn.2016.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Obesity is becoming increasingly common in hemodialysis (HD) patients and is associated with inflammation and increased mortality. The primary aim of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy and variability of the bioimpedance device in measuring body fat in Taiwanese dialysis patients. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SUBJECTS One hundred twenty-two adult patients receiving HD in a single hospital in Taiwan. SETTING We compared the results of fat mass (FM) measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy device (Body composition monitor, BCM). MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENT FM measured by BCM was calculated by subtracting fat-free mass (FFM) from body mass assuming fractional hydration of FFM of 0.73 or the proprietary prediction equations from the BCM model. RESULTS Assessment of whole-body composition showed that percentage FM measured using the 2 techniques was highly correlated when using the BCM model or estimating from total body water using constant (0.73) hydration (r = 0.87, P < .001). There was no evident difference in measurement between patients gender. The Bland-Altman plot also showed good agreement of percentage of FM (t = 3.82; P < .001). In female patients, it was found that BCM significantly underestimated mean FM as compared to DEXA. However, the mean differences of the estimates between the methods were small (0.35 ± 3.00 kg) and with Bland-Altman plot the limits of agreements were -5.5 to 6.2 kg (P = .40) for FM in female patients. CONCLUSIONS Using DEXA as the reference test, BCM is a valid tool for the assessment of total body fat in HD patients. Hence, it may provide a more accessible tool for early detection of changes in body composition in these high-risk patients.
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Moderated Poster session - Genetic, Epigenetic & Integrative480Inhibiting mitochondrial fission with Mdivi-1 directs cardiac differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells via protein kinase CK2481A novel role of tristetraprolin in preventing mitochondrial dysfunction in the heart against iron deficiency by optimizing expression of Rieske iron-sulfur protein482Different therapeutic approaches to downregulate the activation of the hepatic interleukin-6/stat3/complement pathway in two models of autoimmune myocarditis483In vitro and in vivo genome engineering of Dilated Cardiomyopathy caused by phospholamban R14 deletion.484Contractile dysfunction of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes from a duchenne muscular dystrophy patient485Cigarette smoking increases expression of the G protein-coupled receptor 15 mRNA by change in CpG methylation486Cardiogenic potential of iPSC from cardiac progenitor cells. Cardiovasc Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvw146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Abstract
We have measured the second order correlation function [g^{(2)}(τ)] of the cathodoluminescence intensity resulting from the excitation by fast electrons of defect centers in wide band-gap semiconductor nanocrystals of diamond and hexagonal boron nitride. We show that the cathodoluminescence second order correlation function g^{(2)}(τ) of multiple defect centers is dominated by a large, nanosecond zero-delay bunching (g^{(2)}(0)>30), in stark contrast to their flat photoluminescence g^{(2)}(τ) function. We have developed a model showing that this bunching can be attributed to the synchronized emission from several defect centers excited by the same electron through the deexcitation of a bulk plasmon into few electron-hole pairs.
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Ambient pressure structural quantum critical point in the phase diagram of (Ca(x)Sr(1-x))(3)Rh(4)Sn(13). PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2015; 114:097002. [PMID: 25793843 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.114.097002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The quasiskutterudite superconductor Sr_{3}Rh_{4}Sn_{13} features a pronounced anomaly in electrical resistivity at T^{*}∼138 K. We show that the anomaly is caused by a second-order structural transition, which can be tuned to 0 K by applying physical pressure and chemical pressure via the substitution of Ca for Sr. A broad superconducting dome is centered around the structural quantum critical point. Detailed analysis of the tuning parameter dependence of T^{*} as well as insights from lattice dynamics calculations strongly support the existence of a structural quantum critical point at ambient pressure when the fraction of Ca is 0.9 (i.e., x_{c}=0.9). This establishes the (Ca_{x}Sr_{1-x})_{3}Rh_{4}Sn_{13} series as an important system for exploring the physics of structural quantum criticality without the need of applying high pressures.
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A systematic review on the use of daily subcutaneous administration of teriparatide for treatment of patients with osteoporosis at high risk for fracture in Asia. Osteoporos Int 2015; 26:11-28. [PMID: 25138261 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-014-2838-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review aimed to examine the evidence for teriparatide in Asia for osteoporosis with a high fracture risk and for exploratory (unapproved) bone-related indications. MEDLINE (1946+), EMBASE (1966+), and ClinicalTrials.gov (2008+) were searched (16 August 2013); all studies of daily subcutaneous teriparatide 20 μg for bone-related conditions from China, Hong Kong, Japan, Republic of Korea, Philippines, Singapore, and Taiwan were included. Evidence on efficacy/safety was retrieved primarily from randomized controlled trials (10 publications) of postmenopausal women from Japan and China. In these studies, teriparatide was well tolerated; subjects had significantly greater increases in lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) from baseline compared with placebo, antiresorptive agents, or elcatonin/calcitonin; bone turnover markers increased from baseline and were sustained at elevated levels during teriparatide treatment. Few studies reported fracture risk, pain, or quality of life; one study showed a lower incidence of new-onset vertebral fracture with teriparatide versus antiresorptive agents. Nonrandomized studies (nine publications, one unpublished trial) conducted mainly in Taiwan, Japan, and the Republic of Korea provided supporting data for efficacy. The exploratory (unapproved) use of teriparatide (17 publications) for fracture healing and osteonecrosis of the jaw was described primarily in case reports. The clinical effectiveness of teriparatide for treatment of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis who are at high risk of fracture in Asia is focused primarily on improvements in BMD and tolerability. Recommended additional studies may include assessment of fracture risk and the effect of teriparatide on pain, quality of life, and mortality in Asia.
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Advances in three-dimensional rapid prototyping of microfluidic devices for biological applications. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2014; 8:052112. [PMID: 25538804 PMCID: PMC4241764 DOI: 10.1063/1.4898632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The capability of 3D printing technologies for direct production of complex 3D structures in a single step has recently attracted an ever increasing interest within the field of microfluidics. Recently, ultrafast lasers have also allowed developing new methods for production of internal microfluidic channels within the bulk of glass and polymer materials by direct internal 3D laser writing. This review critically summarizes the latest advances in the production of microfluidic 3D structures by using 3D printing technologies and direct internal 3D laser writing fabrication methods. Current applications of these rapid prototyped microfluidic platforms in biology will be also discussed. These include imaging of cells and living organisms, electrochemical detection of viruses and neurotransmitters, and studies in drug transport and induced-release of adenosine triphosphate from erythrocytes.
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Detection of a few metallo-protein molecules using color centers in nanodiamonds. NANO LETTERS 2013; 13:3305-9. [PMID: 23738579 DOI: 10.1021/nl4015233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Nanometer-sized diamonds containing nitrogen-vacancy defect centers (NV) are promising nanosensors in biological environments due to their biocompatibility, bright fluorescence, and high magnetic sensitivity at ambient conditions. Here we report on the detection of ferritin molecules using magnetic noise induced by the inner paramagnetic iron as a contrast mechanism. We observe a significant reduction of both coherence and relaxation time due to the presence of ferritin on the surface of nanodiamonds. Our theoretical model is in excellent agreement with the experimental data and establishes this method as a novel sensing technology for proteins.
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Isradipine prevents rotenone-induced intracellular calcium rise that accelerates senescence in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Neuroscience 2013; 246:243-53. [PMID: 23664925 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2013.04.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 04/16/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Previous research demonstrated that rotenone (RT) induces neuronal injury partially by increasing intracellular Ca(2+) concentrations ([Ca(2+)]i), and inducing oxidative stress, leading to a neurodegenerative disorder. However, the mechanism of RT-induced injury remains elusive. Recent work revealed that Ca(2+) signaling is important for RT-induced senescence in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. In the present study, we found that in SH-SY5Y cells, RT increased [Ca(2+)]i, senescence associated β-galactosidase activity, aggregation of lipofuscin, production of reactive oxygen species, G1/G0 cell cycle arrest, and activation of p53/p21 signaling proteins. In addition, RT decreased the expression of the signaling proteins for cell proliferation and survival, Cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2), cyclin D1, and Akt. Pretreatment of SH-SY5Y cells with isradipine, an L-type Ca(2+) channel blocker, or EGTA antagonized these effects of RT. These results suggested that application of isradipine might be a novel approach to prevent RT-induced neurodegenerative disorder such as Parkinson's disease.
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Adverse postoperative outcomes in surgical patients with immune thrombocytopenia. Br J Surg 2013; 100:684-92; discussion 693. [DOI: 10.1002/bjs.9065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) are likely to have various medical co-morbidities, yet their global features regarding adverse postoperative outcomes and use of medical resources when undergoing major surgery are unknown. The objective of this study was to validate whether ITP is an independent risk factor for adverse postoperative outcomes, and to explore the potential clinical predictors of outcomes after major surgery among patients with ITP.
Methods
A retrospective population-based cohort study was conducted using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database, controlling for preoperative co-morbidities by means of multiple logistic regression. Major postoperative complication and mortality rates, and in-hospital medical costs were analysed.
Results
The study included 11 085 surgical patients with ITP and 44 340 controls without ITP matched for sex, age, and type of surgery and anaesthesia. Surgical patients with ITP had a higher risk of postoperative death (odds ratio (OR) 1·89, 95 per cent confidence interval 1·57 to 2·27), and overall postoperative complications (OR 1·47, 1·39 to 1·56), and increased hospital stay (OR 1·90, 1·80 to 2·01), admission to the intensive care unit (OR 1·73, 1·63 to 1·83) and medical costs (OR 1·89, 1·79 to 1·99). Amount of preoperative platelet and/or red blood cell transfusion, emergency visits and admission to hospital for ITP care were identified as risk factors for adverse postoperative outcomes.
Conclusion
Patients with ITP undergoing surgery are at increased risk of adverse perioperative events, particularly if blood or blood product transfusion are required preoperatively, or the procedure is done as an emergency.
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Susceptibility-weighted imaging in patients with pyogenic brain abscesses at 1.5T: characteristics of the abscess capsule. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2012; 33:910-4. [PMID: 22282449 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a2866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE SWI is a high-resolution 3D, fully velocity-compensated gradient-echo sequence that uses both magnitude and phase data. The purpose of this study was to investigate the phase behavior of the capsule of pyogenic brain abscesses with noncontrast SWI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fourteen patients with pyogenic brain abscesses were studied at 1.5T. In all of the patients, SWI images were obtained and reviewed in addition to conventional MR images. Phase values within the abscess capsule were measured and compared with those from the abscess cavities and contralateral normal white matter using 1-way repeated measures ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni analysis. RESULTS SWI phase images showed mild hypointesity in 6 patients, isointensity in 3 patients, and mixed iso- to mild hypointensity in 5 patients. The means of phase in the cavity, rim of abscesses, and contralateral normal white matter were -7.552 × 10(-3) ± 0.024, -0.105 ± 0.080, and +0.029 ± 0.011 radians, respectively. Post hoc comparisons showed significant differences between any pair of the 3 regions (abscess cavity, rim capsule, and normal white matter) in SWI (all Ps < .005). CONCLUSIONS SWI phase imaging shows evidence of paramagnetic substances in agreement with the presence of free radicals from phagocytosis. SWI may provide additional information valuable in the characterization of pyogenic brain abscesses.
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Purification and characterization of antifungal δ-dodecalactone from Lactobacillus plantarum AF1 isolated from kimchi. J Food Prot 2011; 74:651-7. [PMID: 21477483 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-10-512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to purify and identify an antifungal compound from Lactobacillus plantarum AF1, which was isolated from kimchi. The antifungal compound was purified by solid-phase extraction and recycling preparative high-performance liquid chromatography, and its structure was elucidated by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The active compound from L. plantarum AF1 was confirmed to be δ-dodecalactone (molecular weight, 198.3) by comparison of its gas chromatographic retention time with the mass spectrum of standard δ-dodecalactone. The MICs of δ-dodecalactone against various fungi and bacteria ranged from 350 to 6,250 m g/ml. δ-Dodecalactone showed strong antifungal activity against molds Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. petrakii, A. ochraceus, A. nidulans, and Penicillium roqueforti. The three tested yeast strains of Candida albicans were more resistant than the molds. Antibacterial activity was evident but less potent than the antifungal activity. δ-Dodecalactone produced pleasurable (fruity) organoleptic characteristics. The results indicate the potential of the δ-dodecalactone produced by L. plantarum AF1 as a biopreservative and flavoring compound, as well as a biosafe remedy for candidiasis.
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Capsaicin may induce breast cancer cell death through apoptosis-inducing factor involving mitochondrial dysfunction. Hum Exp Toxicol 2011; 30:1657-65. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327110396530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The majority of breast cancer patients are resistant to chemotherapy or radiotherapy due to the down-regulation or lack of caspase-3 expression. Capsaicin was found to inhibit cancer cell growth in caspase-3-deficient human breast cancer cells. This study aimed to investigate the growth-inhibitive effect of capsaicin and its mechanisms in human breast cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and BT-20. The results showed that cell viability decreased in a dose-dependent manner in both the caspase-3-deficient and non-deficient cells through inducing cell apoptosis and arresting the cell cycle in the S phase. Capsaicin significantly decreased mitochondria membrane potential, induced the cleavage of PARP-1, and decreased procaspase-7 expression in both cells. Apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) was distinctly released from mitochondria and translocated into the cytoplasm and nucleus in MCF-7 cells (52.9%), but not in BT-20 cells (2%) after treatment with 200 μM of capsaicin for 24 hours. Capsaicin inhibited breast cancer cell growth through inducing cell apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the S phase. This apoptotic effect could be induced through the mitochondrial pathway, and PARP-1 subsequently cleaved by activation of caspase-7. The application of capsaicin in clinical therapy could be useful for breast cancer patients.
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Forensic Science in Support of Wildlife Conservation Efforts - Developments in Morphological and Chemical Approaches in Taiwan. FORENSIC SCIENCE REVIEW 2011; 23:37-54. [PMID: 26231168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Parts from animals that are now endangered species (such as bear bile, rhino horn, and tiger bone) have long been important ingredients of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Deeply believing in the potency of these ingredients and coupled with substantial gains in wealth of the population in Taiwan in the 1980s, ugly scenarios came to light. Taiwan quickly became the target of investigation pursued by international wildlife conservationists. To provide scientific bases for the government's investigation efforts, morphological, chemical/physical, and genetic methods were developed to characterize TCM products. This review focuses on Taiwanese scientists' efforts on the following topic matters: (a) morphological approach to identify CITES-listed species from the turtle shells traded in the TCM market; (b) chromatographic and spectrophotometric methods for the identification and differentiation of bile products of different animal origins; and (c) gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method for the analysis of deer musk components and alleged musk products.
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Determination of microbial diversity in meju, fermented cooked soya beans, using nested PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Lett Appl Microbiol 2010; 51:388-94. [PMID: 20704651 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765x.2010.02906.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To identify the microbiota in meju, fermented cooked soya beans, that may directly affect the microbial communities of Korean fermented soya bean foods. METHODS AND RESULTS Using conventional bacterial 16S rDNA, bacilli-specific 16S rDNA or fungi 18S rDNA-specific primers, PCR products were amplified through a series of PCRs using the DNA extracted from ten meju samples. The amplicons were analysed using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), which showed that Enterococcus durans was commonly detected in nine of ten meju samples. Bacillus subtilis was shown to be the major strain of bacilli in the samples tested. Based on the DGGE analysis of fungi in meju, we determined that Absidia corymbifera, Aspergillus sp. and Candida rugosa were the main fungi in the tested samples. CONCLUSIONS A variety of bacterial and fungal micro-organisms were identified in meju samples, in addition to the micro-organisms already known to be present. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This is the first report showing the differences and similarities in the populations of micro-organisms in meju samples using nested PCR-DGGE, a culture-independent method. The results may be applicable to the development of improved meju, in which the indigenous micro-organisms required for fermentation can be standardized.
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MESH Headings
- Bacteria/classification
- Bacteria/genetics
- Bacteria/isolation & purification
- Cooking
- DNA, Bacterial/analysis
- DNA, Bacterial/isolation & purification
- DNA, Fungal/analysis
- DNA, Fungal/isolation & purification
- DNA, Ribosomal/genetics
- Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis/methods
- Ecosystem
- Fermentation
- Fungi/classification
- Fungi/genetics
- Fungi/isolation & purification
- Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
- Republic of Korea
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Glycine max/microbiology
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Purification of a new antifungal compound produced by Lactobacillus plantarum AF1 isolated from kimchi. Int J Food Microbiol 2010; 139:56-63. [PMID: 20226553 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2010.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2009] [Revised: 01/29/2010] [Accepted: 02/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to purify and to identify an antifungal compound of Lactobacillus plantarum AF1, which was isolated from kimchi, and to determine if Lb. plantarum AF1 can prevent fungal growth in a particular food model system. The antifungal compound was purified using SPE and recycling prep-HPLC and its structure was elucidated using NMR and ESI-MS. The active compound from Lb. plantarum AF1 is C(12)H(22)N(2)O(2), 3,6-bis(2-methylpropyl)-2,5-piperazinedion has a molecular mass of 226. This is a new antifungal compound produced by lactic acid bacteria (LAB). To investigate the potential application of the antifungal compound to eliminate fungal spoilage in food and feed, soybean was used as a model. White mycelia and dark green spores of Aspergillus flavus ATCC 22546 were observed in the control soybeans after 1 to 2days incubation. However, fungal growth was not observed in the soybeans treated with a 4-fold concentrated supernatant of Lb. plantarum AF1 culture, even after 2days. The end products produced from kimchi LAB, like 3,6-bis(2-methylpropyl)-2,5-piperazinedion identified in this study, may be a promising alternative to chemical preservatives as a potential biopreservative which prevent fungal spoilage and mycotoxin formation in food and feed.
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Water-assisted CO(2) laser ablated glass and modified thermal bonding for capillary-driven bio-fluidic application. Biomed Microdevices 2009. [PMID: 19830566 DOI: 10.1007/s10544‐009‐9365‐x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The glass-based microfluidic chip has widely been applied to the lab-on-a-chip for clotting tests. Here, we have demonstrated a capillary driven flow chip using the water-assisted CO(2) laser ablation for crackless fluidic channels and holes as well as the modified low-temperature glass bonding with assistance of adhesive polymer film at 300 degrees Celsius. Effect of water depth on the laser ablation of glass quality was investigated. The surface hydrophilic property of glass and polymer film was measured by static contact angle method for hydrophilicity examination in comparison with the conventional polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) material. Both low-viscosity deionized water and high-viscosity whole blood were used for testing the capillary-driving flow behavior. The preliminary coagulation testing in the Y-channel chip was also performed using whole blood and CaCl(2) solution. The water-assisted CO(2) laser processing can cool down glass during ablation for less temperature gradient to eliminate the crack. The modified glass bonding can simplify the conventional complex fabrication procedure of glass chips, such as high-temperature bonding, long consuming time and high cost. Moreover, the developed fluidic glass chip has the merit of hydrophilic behavior conquering the problem of traditional hydrophobic recovery of polymer fluidic chips and shows the ability to drive high-viscosity bio-fluids.
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Safrole-Induced Ca2+Mobilization and Cytotoxicity in Human PC3 Prostate Cancer Cells. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2008; 26:199-212. [PMID: 16777715 DOI: 10.1080/10799890600662595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The effect of the carcinogen safrole on intracellular Ca2+ mobilization and on viability of human PC3 prostate cancer cells was examined. Cytosolic free Ca2+ levels ([Ca2+]i) were measured by using fura-2 as a probe. Safrole at concentrations above 10 microM increased [Ca2+]i in a concentration-dependent manner with an EC50 value of 350 microM. The Ca2+ signal was reduced by more than half after removing extracellular Ca2+ but was unaffected by nifedipine, nicardipine, nimodipine, diltiazem, or verapamil. In Ca2+-free medium, after treatment with 650 microM safrole, 1 microM thapsigargin (an endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor) failed to release Ca2+. Neither inhibition of phospholipase C with U73122 nor modulation of protein kinase C activity affected safrole-induced Ca2+ release. Overnight incubation with 0.65-65 microM safrole did not affect cell viability, but incubation with 325-625 microM safrole decreased viability. Collectively, the data suggest that in PC3 cells, safrole induced a [Ca2+]i increase by causing Ca2+ release from the endoplasmic reticulum in a phospholipase C- and protein kinase C-independent fashion, and by inducing Ca2+ influx. Safrole can decrease cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner.
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Melittin-induced [Ca2+]i increases and subsequent death in canine renal tubular cells. Hum Exp Toxicol 2008; 27:417-24. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327108094606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The effect of melittin on cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and viability is largely unknown. This study examined whether melittin alters Ca2+ levels and causes Ca2+-dependent cell death in Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells. [Ca2+]i and cell death were measured using the fluorescent dyes fura-2 and WST-1 respectively. Melittin at concentrations above 0.5 μM increased [Ca2+]i in a concentration-dependent manner. The Ca2+ signal was reduced by 75% by removing extracellular Ca2+. The melittin-induced Ca2+ influx was also implicated by melittin-caused Mn2+ influx. After pretreatment with 1 μM thapsigargin (an endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump inhibitor), melittin-induced Ca2+ release was inhibited; and conversely, melittin pretreatment abolished thapsigargin-induced Ca2+ release. At concentrations of 0.5–20 μM, melittin killed cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The cytotoxic effect of 0.5 μM melittin was nearly completely reversed by prechelating cytosolic Ca2+ with BAPTA. Melittin at 0.5–2 μM caused apoptosis as assessed by flow cytometry of propidium iodide staining. Collectively, in MDCK cells, melittin induced a [Ca2+]i rise by causing Ca2+ release from endoplasmic reticulum and Ca2+ influx from extracellular space. Furthermore, melittin can cause Ca2+-dependent cytotoxicity in a concentration-dependent manner.
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Fragment-specific fracture fixation and double-column plating of unstable distal radial fractures using AO mini-fragment implants and Kirschner wires. Injury 2007; 38:1259-67. [PMID: 17631882 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2007.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2006] [Revised: 03/06/2007] [Accepted: 03/09/2007] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of AO mini-fragment implants and 1.25-mm Kirschner wires using fragment-specific fracture fixation and double-column plating for displaced or unstable distal radial fractures. DESIGN prospective and consecutive. SETTING level II trauma hospital. PARTICIPANTS 28 people with 30 fractures and an average follow-up of 21.1 (range 12-41) months, treated with fragment-specific fracture fixation. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS anatomical assessment using anteroposterior and lateral radiographs, graded according to Sarmiento's modification of Lidstrom's scoring system. CLINICAL OUTCOME ASSESSMENT: DASH and Modified Gartland and Werley scores. RESULTS There were 24 excellent and 6 good radiological results. Final mean grip strength was 83% of uninjured side, and mean wrist range of motion was 61 degrees dorsiflexion, 54 degrees palmar flexion, 85 degrees supination and 83 degrees pronation. Gartland and Werley's demerit point system revealed 13 (43%) excellent, 12 (40%) good, 5 (17%) fair and no poor results. The mean DASH score was 18, with a standard deviation of +/-18. CONCLUSION This fixation method is a reliable and low-cost alternative with good clinical and anatomical results, particularly useful in open reduction and internal fixation of comminuted intra-articular distal radial fractures.
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Identification of the agent from Lactobacillus plantarum KFRI464 that enhances bacteriocin production by Leuconostoc citreum GJ7. J Appl Microbiol 2007; 103:2504-15. [PMID: 17850309 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2007.03543.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To provide evidence that the production of bacteriocin by lactic acid bacteria can be enhanced by the presence of a bacteriocin-sensitive strain and identify the agent that is responsible for enhancing bacteriocin production. METHODS AND RESULTS One bacteriocin-producing lactic acid bacterium was isolated from kimchi. The strain GJ7 was designated as Leuconostoc citreum GJ7 based on Gram staining, biochemical properties, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The isolate produced a heat- and pH-stable bacteriocin (kimchicin GJ7), which has antagonistic activity against a broad spectrum of micro-organisms. Tricine-sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of purified kimchicin GJ7 showed a single band of molecular weight c. 3500 Da. Cultures of Leuc. citreum GJ7 in the presence of thermally inactivated kimchicin GJ7-sensitive strains, Lactobacillus plantarum KFRI 464, Lactobacillus delbrueckii KFRI 347, or Leuconostoc mesenteroides KCTC 1628, increased bacteriocin production. This inducing factor was characterized and purified from Lact. plantarum KFRI 464, which showed the greatest enhancement of kimchicin GJ7 activity. The inducing factor was purified using a DEAE (diethyl aminoethyl)-Sephacel column and high-performance liquid chromatography, and yielded a single band of c. 6500 Da. N-terminal sequencing of the inducing factor identified 16 amino acids. The N-terminal sequence of the inducing factor was synthesized and examined for the induction of kimchicin GJ7 activity, and was found to induce activity, but at a level about 10% lower than that of the entire molecule. CONCLUSIONS The presence of a bacteriocin-sensitive strain, Lact. plantarum KFRI 464, acts as an environmental stimulus to activate the production of kimchicin GJ7 by Leuc. citreum GJ7. The inducing factor from Lact. plantarum KFRI 464 is highly homologous to the 30S ribosomal protein S16 from various micro-organisms. The N-terminal sequence of the inducing factor examined in this study is a very important sequence related to the inducing activity. Nevertheless, the inducing factor may not be part of the ribosomal protein S16 itself. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY We believe that the present study is the first to identify an agent that is produced by one micro-organism and influences bacteriocin production in another. The bacteriocin-enhancing system described in this study could be effectively used to control the growth of other micro-organisms (sensitive cells) in food systems. Moreover, this enhancement of bacteriocin production can be applied usefully in industrial production of natural food preservatives.
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Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate outcomes of arthroscopic subacromial decompression for stage-II impingement. METHODS Records of 42 consecutive patients with stage-II impingement treated by arthroscopic subacromial decompression from January 2000 to February 2002 were reviewed. Clinical outcomes were measured using the UCLA shoulder rating scale, and radiological outcomes using anteroposterior and supraspinatus outlet shoulder radiographs. RESULTS The mean follow-up period was 14.6 (range, 12-30) months. Using the UCLA scale, 14 (33%) patients had an excellent result, 21 (50%) had a good result, 4 (10%) had a fair result, and 3 (7%) had a poor result. Mean component scores for the UCLA scale were: 8.0 for pain, 8.8 for function, 4.5 for forward flexion, and 4.5 for strength. The mean extent of resection was 2.9 mm in the anteroposterior and 2.0 mm in the supraspinatus outlet radiographs. There was no correlation between the extent of acromial resection and the UCLA shoulder rating scores. CONCLUSION Short-term results of arthroscopic subacromial decompression for stage-II impingement are favourable.
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THE DETERMINATION OF THE CIRCULATING BLOOD VOLUME WITH CARBON MONOXIDE. J Clin Invest 2006; 5:393-405. [PMID: 16693800 PMCID: PMC434718 DOI: 10.1172/jci100166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Recognising tuberculosis in the lower lung field: an age- and sex-matched controlled study. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2006; 10:578-84. [PMID: 16704043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Tuberculosis (TB) can sometimes present with consolidation in the lower lung field. This study was conducted to compare the manifestations of lower-lung-field TB (LLFTB) and other pulmonary TB. DESIGN All new culture-proven TB patients with lower-lung-field consolidation from July 2001 through December 2002 were included. Age- and sex-matched TB patients with upper lung involvement were selected as controls. RESULTS A total of 79 patients with LLFTB were included. Their mean age was 58.8 years; 46 were male. The clinical, radiographic and laboratory findings were similar in the LLFTB and the control groups, except that the LLFTB patients had less cavitation (P = 0.005). Patients with LLFTB were diagnosed (P = 0.051) and treated (P = 0.001) later than the control patients. The calibres of the trachea and both main bronchi were significantly smaller in the LLFTB group (P < 0.001). More patients with LLFTB developed segmental or lobar atelectasis during follow-up (P = 0.028). CONCLUSIONS The manifestations of LLFTB are non-specific. The lower-lung involvement, the lower incidence of cavitation and the higher probability of segmental or lobar atelectasis implied that LLFTB was primary TB. A small bronchial calibre probably contributed to its development.
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Abstract
The authors performed linkage analysis in 39 families with autosomal recessive early-onset PD (AR-EOPD) negative for parkin and DJ-1 mutations. Eight families including three Japanese, two Taiwanese, one Turkish, one Israeli, and one Philippine showed evidence of linkage with PARK6 with multipoint log of the odds (lod) score of 9.88 at D1S2732. The results indicate worldwide distribution of PARK6-linked parkinsonism.
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Study on the relation between occupational fenvalerate exposure and spermatozoa DNA damage of pesticide factory workers. Occup Environ Med 2004; 61:999-1005. [PMID: 15550606 PMCID: PMC1740696 DOI: 10.1136/oem.2004.014597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine sperm nuclear DNA integrity and to investigate the relation between fenvalerate (FE) exposure and spermatozoa DNA damage. METHODS Sperm DNA fragmentation was detected by a modified alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis (Comet) assay and a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay. The olive tail moment (OTM) and percentage tail DNA were measured by the Comet assay, and cell positive percentage was measured by the TUNEL assay for DNA damage evaluation. RESULTS The DNA integrity of spermatozoa of external and internal control groups were both significantly greater than that of the FE exposed group. The median value of tail DNA percentage in the exposure group was 11.30, which was significantly higher than 5.60 in the internal control group and 5.10 in the external control group. The median value of OTM was 3.80 in the exposure group, significantly higher than 1.50 in the internal control group and 2.00 in the external control group. Mean cell positive was 31.2% in the exposure group, significantly higher than 17.4% in the internal control and 19.6% in the external control groups. Cell positive (%) was significantly correlated with tail DNA percentage and with OTM of whole subjects (n = 63). CONCLUSIONS Results showed that occupational FE exposure is associated with an increase in sperm DNA damage. A combination of the Comet and TUNEL assays would offer more comprehensive information for a better understanding of sperm DNA damage, and the biological significance of sperm DNA damage in sperm function and male infertility.
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Study of prostaglandin receptors in mitochondria on apoptosis of human lung carcinoma cell line A549. Biochem Soc Trans 2004; 32:1078-80. [PMID: 15506970 DOI: 10.1042/bst0321078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PGs (prostaglandins) are synthesized through the cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and -2) pathway in a variety of cells in response to various physiological stimuli. All cells require at least one pathway for apoptosis, and mitochondrial play a central role in regulation of apoptosis. In a previous study, incubation of A549 cells with NS-398 (a COX-2-specific inhibitor) induced apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation, and the concentrations of different PGs between various cellular compartments were found to be changed. To determine whether PG receptors are involved in this regulation, Western-blot analyses were performed specific for PGE2 (EP receptors) and PGF2α (FP receptor) receptors, which were expressed in A549 cells. Western-blot analysis revealed that mitochondria that were isolated from A549 cells expressed EP receptors (EP2, EP3 and EP4), whereas FP receptors were undetectable. EP receptors (EP1, EP3 and EP4) and FP receptors were detected from A549 cell membrane. These results suggest that the change of PG production in A549-cells-induced cancer cell apoptosis might be related to the different expressions of EP and FP receptors in cell and mitochondrial membrane.
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Cancellous screw fixation for femoral neck fractures: one hundred and sixteen patients. ANNALS OF THE ACADEMY OF MEDICINE, SINGAPORE 2004; 33:248-51. [PMID: 15098643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This paper evaluates the efficacy and safety of the use of cancellous screw fixation in the treatment of intracapsular femoral neck fractures in our local population. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective analysis of the results of 116 cases that were performed in Singapore General Hospital and Changi General Hospital over a 2-year period was undertaken. The minimum period of follow-up was 2 years. RESULTS The median age of the study group was 71 years and approximately two-thirds were females. There were 104 (90%) cases of undisplaced (Garden 1 and 2) fractures and 12 (10%) displaced (Garden 3 and 4) fractures. The specific complication rate was much higher in the displaced group of patients. At 2 years' postoperation, 85% returned to their premorbid level of ambulation and 90% reported good pain relief. The 1-year mortality rate was 7%. CONCLUSION Cancellous screw fixation is a relatively safe and useful operation. It achieved our aim of returning most patients to their pre-fracture level of ambulation and providing good pain relief.
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Rapid Identification of Yeasts Commonly Found in Positive Blood Cultures by Amplification of the Internal Transcribed Spacer Regions 1 and 2. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2003; 22:693-6. [PMID: 14557922 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-003-1020-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A multiplex PCR method using one universal and eight species-specific primers was developed to rapidly identify eight yeast species found in positive blood cultures. The species-specific primers were designed from the internal transcribed spacer regions 1 and 2 of the rRNA gene, whereas the universal primer was located at the 26S rRNA gene. The eight species were Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida guilliermondii, Candida krusei, Candida lusitaniae, Candida parapsilosis, Candida tropicalis, and Cryptococcus neoformans. The PCR products (116 to 630 bp) were different in length and could be effectively separated and recognized by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. By testing 234 positive blood cultures (237 isolates), 234 (98.7%) isolates of the above eight species were correctly identified by the multiplex PCR. The present method is simple to perform and can be completed within 6 h.
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Abstract
Mass spectra of fluorescently labeled polystyrene nanoparticles have been obtained using a combined technique of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI), laser-induced fluorescence (LIF), and a dual quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer. The spectrometer is designed in such a way that the first trap serves as a trapping and mass-analyzing device, while the second trap serves to capture and concentrate the ions ejected from the first trap for fluorescence detection. An enhancement in the LIF signal by more than 3 orders of magnitude is achieved with the help of the second trap, making mass/charge (m/z) analysis of the nanoparticles possible. Additional unique features of this mass spectrometer include that frequency scan (0.5-50 kHz) at a constant voltage (200 V), instead of voltage scan at a constant frequency, is implemented to widen the spectral analysis range of the instrument. The implementation has allowed the spectrometer to operate at relatively high buffer gas pressures (50 mTorr), crucial for effective trapping of the nanometer-sized particles generated by MALDI. We present in this report the first mass spectra of fluorescently labeled nanoparticles with a size of 27 nm using this new mass spectrometric approach. The utility of this method in the study of biological macromolecules or particles is demonstrated with dye-labeled IgG.
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A case of Bizarre Parosteal Osteochondromatous Proliferation of the hand. Singapore Med J 2003; 44:27-30. [PMID: 12762560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
We report a case of Bizarre Parosteal Osteochondromatous Proliferation (BPOP) of the hand that was initially misdiagnosed as an osteochondroma. BPOP, although a benign lesion, behaves aggressively with rapid growth and high risk of local recurrence after local resection. The distinguishing features of BPOP as opposed to an osteochondroma are discussed.
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The growth and development of orthopaedic sports medicine in Singapore. ANNALS OF THE ACADEMY OF MEDICINE, SINGAPORE 2002; 31:573-8. [PMID: 12395641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Orthopaedic sports medicine is currently a well established subspecialty of orthopaedic surgery in Singapore. It had its beginnings in the late 1960s and has since grown to be one of the major orthopaedic subspecialties. Knee, shoulder and ankle injuries constitute the majority of cases seen by the orthopaedic sports medicine specialists. Significant scientific contributions to the international literature have been made by our specialists over the years. Today, Singapore is a regional hub for the provision of orthopaedic sports medicine care and training.
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Optical detection and charge-state analysis of MALDI-generated particles with molecular masses larger than 5 MDa. Anal Chem 2002; 74:4434-40. [PMID: 12236352 DOI: 10.1021/ac020205l] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Charged polystyrene nanoparticles are generated by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) and detected by laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) in a quadrupole ion trap. Employing the LIF technique, observations of individual fluorescent nanospheres (27 nm in diameter and containing 180 fluorescein dye equivalents) have been achieved with an average signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 10. With the trap operating at a frequency around 5 kHz, charge state analysis of the particles reveals that the number of charges carried by the spheres is between 1 and 10. It suggests a mass-to-charge ratio (m/z) in the range of 10(5)-10(6) for the MALDI-generated particles. To effectively trap such large particles (m > 5 MDa), damping of the particles' motions by using approximately 50 mTorr He buffer gas is absolutely required. Similar findings are obtained for particles with a nominal size of 1 microm in diameter, demonstrating that production of charged particles with a molecular mass as high as 10(12) Da is possible using the MALDI technique.
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Extremity osteosarcoma--a Southeast Asian experience. ANNALS OF THE ACADEMY OF MEDICINE, SINGAPORE 2002; 31:598-606. [PMID: 12395645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We present our experience with limb salvage emphasising the use of vascularised bone grafts in combination with autoclaved tumour bone for limb salvage in osteosarcoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-six cases with extremity osteosarcoma, all of which were managed at a single institution between 1980 and 1999, were reviewed at a mean follow-up of 9 years (range, 10 months to 200 months). There were 26 patients who underwent limb salvage surgery and 10 patients who had amputation. RESULTS In the limb salvage group, 12 bone defects were bridged using vascularised bone grafts alone while autoclaved tumour bone was used for reconstruction in the remaining 14 patients. In these 14, there were 10 with autoclaved tumour bone and vascularised bone, 2 with autoclaved bone and non-vascularised bone and 2 with autoclaved bone alone. The joint was preserved in 13 of the 26 reconstructions. Of these, 11 involved preservation of the knee joint contributing to a quantum gain in function with 84% good and excellent results. The actuarial survival was 64% at 2 years and 48% at 5 years, with no significant difference between ablation and limb salvage. CONCLUSION The use of the autoclaved bone provided yet another effective alternative for bridging large defects following resection of high grade tumours.
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