1
|
Lu F, Park BJ, Fujiwara R, Wilusz JE, Gilmour DS, Lehmann R, Lionnet T. Integrator-mediated clustering of poised RNA polymerase II synchronizes histone transcription. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.10.07.561364. [PMID: 37873455 PMCID: PMC10592978 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.07.561364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Numerous components of the transcription machinery, including RNA polymerase II (Pol II), accumulate in regions of high local concentration known as clusters, which are thought to facilitate transcription. Using the histone locus of Drosophila nurse cells as a model, we find that Pol II forms long-lived, transcriptionally poised clusters distinct from liquid droplets, which contain unbound and paused Pol II. Depletion of the Integrator complex endonuclease module, but not its phosphatase module or Pol II pausing factors disperses these Pol II clusters. Consequently, histone transcription fails to reach peak levels during S-phase and aberrantly continues throughout the cell cycle. We propose that Pol II clustering is a regulatory step occurring near promoters that limits rapid gene activation to defined times. One Sentence Summary Using the Drosophila histone locus as a model, we show that clustered RNA polymerase II is poised for synchronous activation.
Collapse
|
2
|
Adhikari G, Carlin N, Choi JJ, Choi S, Ezeribe AC, França LE, Ha C, Hahn IS, Hollick SJ, Jeon EJ, Jo JH, Joo HW, Kang WG, Kauer M, Kim BH, Kim HJ, Kim J, Kim KW, Kim SH, Kim SK, Kim WK, Kim YD, Kim YH, Ko YJ, Lee DH, Lee EK, Lee H, Lee HS, Lee HY, Lee IS, Lee J, Lee JY, Lee MH, Lee SH, Lee SM, Lee YJ, Leonard DS, Luan NT, Manzato BB, Maruyama RH, Neal RJ, Nikkel JA, Olsen SL, Park BJ, Park HK, Park HS, Park KS, Park SD, Pitta RLC, Prihtiadi H, Ra SJ, Rott C, Shin KA, Cavalcante DFFS, Scarff A, Spooner NJC, Thompson WG, Yang L, Yu GH. Search for Boosted Dark Matter in COSINE-100. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2023; 131:201802. [PMID: 38039466 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.131.201802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
We search for energetic electron recoil signals induced by boosted dark matter (BDM) from the galactic center using the COSINE-100 array of NaI(Tl) crystal detectors at the Yangyang Underground Laboratory. The signal would be an excess of events with energies above 4 MeV over the well-understood background. Because no excess of events are observed in a 97.7 kg·yr exposure, we set limits on BDM interactions under a variety of hypotheses. Notably, we explored the dark photon parameter space, leading to competitive limits compared to direct dark photon search experiments, particularly for dark photon masses below 4 MeV and considering the invisible decay mode. Furthermore, by comparing our results with a previous BDM search conducted by the Super-Kamionkande experiment, we found that the COSINE-100 detector has advantages in searching for low-mass dark matter. This analysis demonstrates the potential of the COSINE-100 detector to search for MeV electron recoil signals produced by the dark sector particle interactions.
Collapse
|
3
|
Burris BJD, Molina Vargas AM, Park BJ, O'Connell MR. Optimization of specific RNA knockdown in mammalian cells with CRISPR-Cas13. Methods 2022; 206:58-68. [PMID: 35987443 PMCID: PMC9511595 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2022.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Prokaryotic adaptive immune systems use Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPRs) and CRISPR Associated (Cas) proteins to target and cleave foreign genetic elements in an RNA-guided manner [1-3]. Type VI CRISPR-Cas systems contain a single effector ribonuclease, Cas13, that binds and processes a CRISPR-RNA (crRNA; also known as a guide-RNA), forming an RNA-guided RNA-targeting effector complex [4,5]. Previous studies have shown that Cas13 can be engineered to target and modulate RNA processes in human cells, illustrating the versatility and specificity of Cas13 as an RNA knockdown (KD), splicing, editing, or imaging tool [6-8]. While Cas13 has been successfully used by several groups, our lab has observed significant variability in Cas13 KD ability depending which protocol is being followed [9-12]. To further understand this variability and generate a robust Cas13 KD protocol we thoroughly tested which Cas13 ortholog to use, the duration of KD experiments, the amount of plasmid DNA transfected, methods for analyzing KD efficiency, and report an optimized method for carrying out and analyzing Cas13 mediated RNA KD experiments. The method outlined in this paper illustrates a faster and more reliable protocol to iteratively test gRNA performance and target gene KD.
Collapse
|
4
|
Soh Y, Park BJ. Giant Vertebral Artery Aneurysm: A Rare Cause of Respiratory Failure and Swallowing Disorder. Neurochirurgie 2020; 66:412-413. [PMID: 32623055 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2020.04.133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
5
|
Pinheiro MDO, Simmons DBD, Villella M, Tetreault GR, Muir DCG, McMaster ME, Hewitt LM, Parrott JL, Park BJ, Brown SB, Sherry JP. Brown bullhead at the St. Lawrence River (Cornwall) Area of Concern: health and endocrine status in the context of tissue concentrations of PCBs and mercury. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2020; 192:404. [PMID: 32472215 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-020-08355-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The St. Lawrence River, at Cornwall Ontario, has accumulated sediment contaminants, mainly mercury (Hg) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), from industrial point sources over many years. Although those sources are past, the river at Cornwall remains an Area of Concern (AOC). Because of remediation and other changes in the AOC, improved knowledge of contaminants in wild-fish and their putative links to health effects could help decision makers to better assess the AOC's state. Thus, we compared tissue concentrations of Hg, PCBs, morphometric measures of health, and biomarkers of exposure, metabolic-, and reproductive health in native brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) from the AOC to those of upstream reference fish. Linear discriminant analysis separated the adult fish of both sexes among upstream and downstream sites without misclassification. Burdens of total-Hg (all sites) and PCB toxic equivalents (downstream sites) exceeded the guidance for the protection of wildlife consumers. There were subtle effects of site on physiological variables, particularly in female fish. Total-Hg in tissue correlated negatively to plasma testosterone and 17β-estradiol in female fish at Cornwall: moreover, concentrations of both hormones were lower within the AOC compared to reference site fish. A similar effect on vitellogenin, which was uncorrelated to E2/T at the downstream sites, indicated the potential for reproductive effects. Downstream fish also had altered thyroidal status (T3, TSH, and ratio of thyroid epithelial cell area to colloid area). Despite spatial and temporal variability of the endocrine-related responses, these subtle effects on fish health within the AOC warrant further study.
Collapse
|
6
|
Turner SR, Mormando J, Park BJ, Huang J. Attitudes of robotic surgery educators and learners: challenges, advantages, tips and tricks of teaching and learning robotic surgery. J Robot Surg 2019; 14:455-461. [PMID: 31463878 DOI: 10.1007/s11701-019-01013-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
As the application of robotic surgical technology grows, so does the need to instruct surgical residents in robotic techniques. To better understand the challenges and benefits unique to robotic surgery education, this study explored the attitudes of teachers and learners. A 43-item questionnaire was developed with five domains: challenges and benefits of robotic education, training methodologies, trainees' readiness for learning, and education tips. This was delivered to surgeons and surgical fellows at a high-volume surgical department. 31 surgeons and 25 fellows from 7 specialties responded (response rate 70% and 43%). The teaching and learning of robotic surgery were perceived as superior to traditional minimally invasive surgery by both surgeons (in 7/9 factors studied) and fellows (7/9), but was seen as mostly disadvantageous compared to open surgery by both surgeons (in 6/9 factors studied) and fellows (8/9). Surgeons frequently stated the greatest challenge to teaching robotics was the need to relinquish total control to the trainee. Robotic surgery education is generally well received and offers several advantages. However, teaching robotic surgery presents unique challenges, especially when compared to open surgery. Understanding the benefits of, and barriers to, robotic surgery education may help develop more effective training paradigms that are responsive to educational needs while maintaining patient safety.
Collapse
|
7
|
Adhikari G, Adhikari P, de Souza EB, Carlin N, Choi S, Djamal M, Ezeribe AC, Ha C, Hahn IS, Jeon EJ, Jo JH, Joo HW, Kang WG, Kang W, Kauer M, Kim GS, Kim H, Kim HJ, Kim KW, Kim NY, Kim SK, Kim YD, Kim YH, Ko YJ, Kudryavtsev VA, Lee HS, Lee J, Lee JY, Lee MH, Leonard DS, Lynch WA, Maruyama RH, Mouton F, Olsen SL, Park BJ, Park HK, Park HS, Park KS, Pitta RLC, Prihtiadi H, Ra SJ, Rott C, Shin KA, Scarff A, Spooner NJC, Thompson WG, Yang L, Yu GH. Search for a Dark Matter-Induced Annual Modulation Signal in NaI(Tl) with the COSINE-100 Experiment. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2019; 123:031302. [PMID: 31386435 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.123.031302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
We present new constraints on the dark matter-induced annual modulation signal using 1.7 years of COSINE-100 data with a total exposure of 97.7 kg yr. The COSINE-100 experiment, consisting of 106 kg of NaI(Tl) target material, is designed to carry out a model-independent test of DAMA/LIBRA's claim of WIMP discovery by searching for the same annual modulation signal using the same NaI(Tl) target. The crystal data show a 2.7 cpd/kg/keV background rate on average in the 2-6 keV energy region of interest. Using a χ-squared minimization method we observe best fit values for modulation amplitude and phase of 0.0092±0.0067 cpd/kg/keV and 127.2±45.9 d, respectively.
Collapse
|
8
|
Ha C, Adhikari G, Adhikari P, Barbosa de Souza E, Carlin N, Choi S, Djamal M, Ezeribe AC, Hahn IS, Jeon EJ, Jo JH, Joo HW, Kang WG, Kang W, Kauer M, Kim GS, Kim H, Kim HJ, Kim KW, Kim NY, Kim SK, Kim YD, Kim YH, Ko YJ, Kudryavtsev VA, Lee HS, Lee J, Lee JY, Lee MH, Leonard DS, Lynch WA, Maruyama RH, Mouton F, Olsen SL, Park BJ, Park HK, Park HS, Park KS, Pitta RLC, Prihtiadi H, Ra SJ, Rott C, Shin KA, Scarff A, Spooner NJC, Thompson WG, Yang L, Yu GH. First Direct Search for Inelastic Boosted Dark Matter with COSINE-100. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2019; 122:131802. [PMID: 31012610 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.122.131802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
A search for inelastic boosted dark matter (IBDM) using the COSINE-100 detector with 59.5 days of data is presented. This relativistic dark matter is theorized to interact with the target material through inelastic scattering with electrons, creating a heavier state that subsequently produces standard model particles, such as an electron-positron pair. In this study, we search for this electron-positron pair in coincidence with the initially scattered electron as a signature for an IBDM interaction. No excess over the predicted background event rate is observed. Therefore, we present limits on IBDM interactions under various hypotheses, one of which allows us to explore an area of the dark photon parameter space that has not yet been covered by other experiments. This is the first experimental search for IBDM using a terrestrial detector.
Collapse
|
9
|
Park BJ, Oh EH, Kim JE, Ko JY, Ro YS. Treatment of disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis with oral alitretinoin. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2017; 31:e505-e507. [PMID: 28543730 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
10
|
Schneeweiss S, Eichler HG, Garcia-Altes A, Chinn C, Eggimann AV, Garner S, Goettsch W, Lim R, Löbker W, Martin D, Müller T, Park BJ, Platt R, Priddy S, Ruhl M, Spooner A, Vannieuwenhuyse B, Willke RJ. Real World Data in Adaptive Biomedical Innovation: A Framework for Generating Evidence Fit for Decision-Making. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2016; 100:633-646. [DOI: 10.1002/cpt.512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
11
|
Navarro-Martín L, Lanctôt C, Jackman P, Park BJ, Doe K, Pauli BD, Trudeau VL. Effects of glyphosate-based herbicides on survival, development, growth and sex ratios of wood frogs (Lithobates sylvaticus) tadpoles. I: chronic laboratory exposures to VisionMax®. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 154:278-90. [PMID: 24878356 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2014.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if chronic exposure to the glyphosate-based herbicide VisionMax(®) affects the survival, development, growth, sex ratios and expression of specific genes involved in metamorphosis of wood frog tadpoles (Lithobates sylvaticus). We hypothesized that exposure to this herbicide will affect developmental rates by disrupting hormone pathways, sex ratios and/or gonadal morphology. Tadpoles were chronically exposed in the laboratory from Gosner developmental stage 25 to 42 to four different concentrations of VisionMax(®) (ranging from 0.021 to 2.9 mg acid equivalents/L). Chronic exposures to VisionMax(®) had direct effects on the metamorphosis of L. sylvaticus tadpoles by decreasing development rates, however, there was a decrease in survival only in the group exposed to the highest dose of VisionMax(®) (2.9 mg a.e./L; from approximately 96% in the control group to 77% in the treatment group). There was a decrease in the number of tadpoles reaching metamorphic climax, from 78% in the control group to 42% in the VisionMax(®) (2.9 mg a.e./L) group, and a 7-day delay to reach metamorphic climax in the same treatment group. No effects of exposure on sex ratios or gonadal morphology were detected in tadpoles exposed to any of the concentrations of VisionMax(®) tested. Gene expression analyses in brain and tail tissues demonstrated that exposure to VisionMax(®) alters the expression of key genes involved in development. Results showed significant interaction (two-way ANOVA, P<0.05) between developmental Gosner stage and treatment in brain corticotropin-releasing factor, deiodinase type II (dio2) and glucocorticotiroid receptor (grII) and tail dio2 and grII. This demonstrates that mRNA levels may be differently affected by treatment depending on the developmental stage at which they are assessed. At the same time there was a clear dose-response effect for VisionMax(®) to increase thyroid hormone receptor β in tadpole brain (F(2,69)=3.475, P=0.037) and tail (F(2,69)=27.569, P<0.001), regardless of developmental stage. Interestingly, delays in development (or survival) were only observed in the group exposed to 2.9 mg a.e./L of VisionMax(®), suggesting that tadpoles need to be exposed to a "threshold" concentration of glyphosate-based herbicide to exhibit phenotypic observable effects. We suggest that the upregulation of genes that trigger metamorphosis following VisionMax(®) herbicide exposure might result from a compensatory response for the delays in development observed. Further studies are needed to determine if disruption of expression of these key genes leads to long-term effects when metamorphs reach adult stages.
Collapse
|
12
|
Simmons DBD, McMaster ME, Reiner EJ, Hewitt LM, Parrott JL, Park BJ, Brown SB, Sherry JP. Wild fish from the Bay of Quinte Area of Concern contain elevated tissue concentrations of PCBs and exhibit evidence of endocrine-related health effects. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 66:124-37. [PMID: 24576942 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2013] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/13/2014] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The Bay of Quinte (BOQ) is an Area of Concern listed under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. The presence of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs in fish in the BOQ AOC has led to restrictions on fish consumption by humans, which is a beneficial use impairment. Adult yellow perch (Perca flavescens) and brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) were sampled from Trenton, Belleville, and Deseronto (reference site) in the BOQ. A suite of hormone assays and various measures of exposure and/or sublethal health effects were used to assess the health status of fish of both species and sex. Condition factor, hepatosomatic index, ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity, circulating steroid and thyroid hormones, thyroid activation, oocyte size distribution, spermatogenic cell stages, and plasma vitellogenin were among the endpoints that were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by location. Many of those effects corresponded with significantly (p < 0.05) greater tissue concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) at Belleville and Trenton. Hepatic extracts from brown bullhead sampled from Trenton had significantly (p < 0.05) greater binding activity to the androgen receptor and sex steroid binding protein. Taken together, these data and preliminary data from a concomitant study suggest that PCBs are likely being hydroxylated in vivo, resulting in enhanced bioactivity at endocrine receptors and measurable health responses. The present study supports the growing body of evidence that PCBs and their metabolites can affect fish thyroid and steroid hormone systems.
Collapse
|
13
|
Kauffman CA, Freifeld AG, Andes DR, Baddley JW, Herwaldt L, Walker RC, Alexander BD, Anaissie EJ, Benedict K, Ito JI, Knapp KM, Lyon GM, Marr KA, Morrison VA, Park BJ, Patterson TF, Schuster MG, Chiller TM, Pappas PG. Endemic fungal infections in solid organ and hematopoietic cell transplant recipients enrolled in the Transplant-Associated Infection Surveillance Network (TRANSNET). Transpl Infect Dis 2014; 16:213-24. [PMID: 24589027 DOI: 10.1111/tid.12186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Revised: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 08/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Invasive fungal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among solid organ transplant (SOT) and hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients, but few data have been reported on the epidemiology of endemic fungal infections in these populations. METHODS Fifteen institutions belonging to the Transplant-Associated Infection Surveillance Network prospectively enrolled SOT and HCT recipients with histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, or coccidioidomycosis occurring between March 2001 and March 2006. RESULTS A total of 70 patients (64 SOT recipients and 6 HCT recipients) had infection with an endemic mycosis, including 52 with histoplasmosis, 9 with blastomycosis, and 9 with coccidioidomycosis. The 12-month cumulative incidence rate among SOT recipients for histoplasmosis was 0.102%. Occurrence of infection was bimodal; 28 (40%) infections occurred in the first 6 months post transplantation, and 24 (34%) occurred between 2 and 11 years post transplantation. Three patients were documented to have acquired infection from the donor organ. Seven SOT recipients with histoplasmosis and 3 with coccidioidomycosis died (16%); no HCT recipient died. CONCLUSIONS This 5-year multicenter prospective surveillance study found that endemic mycoses occur uncommonly in SOT and HCT recipients, and that the period at risk extends for years after transplantation.
Collapse
|
14
|
Choi NK, Lee J, Chang Y, Jung SY, Kim YJ, Lee SM, Lee JH, Kim JY, Song HJ, Park BJ. Polyethylene glycol bowel preparation does not eliminate the risk of acute renal failure: a population-based case-crossover study. Endoscopy 2013; 45:208-13. [PMID: 23322476 DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1326031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Polyethylene glycol (PEG) bowel preparations are regarded as effective and safe for colonoscopy; however, recent reports have indicated a risk of acute renal failure (ARF). This population-based case-crossover study evaluated the association between PEG and ARF in screening colonoscopy patients aged ≥ 50 years. PATIENTS AND METHODS Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) claims data from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2009 were used in the study. The study population consisted of patients aged ≥ 50 years who were first hospitalized for ARF following colonoscopy involving PEG bowel preparation. For each patient, PEG use in a 1-, 2-, or 4-week period prior to the first hospital admission date for ARF (hazard period) was compared with PEG use in four earlier 1-, 2-, or 4-week control periods. Conditional logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for concomitant medications that could induce ARF. RESULTS The total number of study patients was 1064 (59 % were male). A greater proportion of patients used PEG during the hazard period than during the control periods (for 4-week time window: 8.8 % vs. 3.2 %). The adjusted ORs for ARF incidence when applying the 1-, 2-, and 4-week periods were 3.1 (95 %CI 2.06 - 4.73), 2.5 (95 %CI 1.76 - 3.53), and 2.1 (95 %CI 1.61 - 4.85), respectively. CONCLUSIONS The use of PEG was associated with the risk of ARF. Adequate hydration and renal function monitoring should be assured before and after colonoscopy, regardless of the bowel preparation regimen used.
Collapse
|
15
|
Kang WY, Sung DJ, Park BJ, Kim MJ, Han NY, Cho SB, Kang CH, Kang SH. Perihilar branching patterns of renal artery and extrarenal length of arterial branches and tumour-feeding arteries on multidetector CT angiography. Br J Radiol 2013; 86:20120387. [PMID: 23418206 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20120387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of our study was to assess the extrarenal length of renal arterial branches and tumour-feeding arteries on multidetector CT (MDCT) angiography, in addition to the perihilar branching patterns, with relevance to segmental artery clamping. METHODS MDCT angiograms of 64 patients with renal masses <4 cm were retrospectively reviewed by 2 radiologists. The perihilar branching patterns of the single main renal artery were assessed according to the number of pre-segmental and segmental arteries. The extrarenal lengths of segmental plus pre-segmental arteries and the tumour-feeding arteries, measured on volume-rendered images, were compared according to the vascular segmentation and the tumour location, respectively. RESULTS In the 116 kidneys, 1 pre-segmental plus 5 segmental arteries (n=48) was the most common branching pattern. The mean extrarenal length of the inferior segmental plus pre-segmental arteries (33.05 mm) and the posterior segmental plus pre-segmental arteries (32.30 mm) was longer than any of the other segmental plus pre-segmental arteries (apical, 23.87 mm; superior, 26.80 mm; middle, 29.23 mm) (p<0.05). The mean extrarenal length of the lower pole tumour-feeding arteries (35.94 mm) was longer than those of the upper and mid-pole tumour-feeding arteries (24.95 mm, 29.62 mm), with significant difference between the lower and the upper pole tumour-feeding arteries (p<0.05). CONCLUSION Tumours in the lower pole, supplied by the inferior or posterior segmental artery, may be more amenable to segmental artery clamping. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE MDCT angiography with volume rendering can demonstrate the extrarenal length of tumour-feeding arteries and may help in determining the accessibility for segmental artery clamping.
Collapse
|
16
|
Joshi SK, Joshi A, Park BJ, Aryal UR. Hand washing practice among health care workers in a teaching hospital. JOURNAL OF NEPAL HEALTH RESEARCH COUNCIL 2013; 11:1-5. [PMID: 23787516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care associated infection has been identified as one of the major challenges of modern medicine and remains as a major health concern around the globe. Hands of the health-care workers are potential vehicle for transmission of pathogenic organisms within the healthcare environment. Hand washing is widely accepted as one of the most effective measures in prevention of health care associated infections. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the hand washing practice among the doctors, intern doctors, nurses, medical students and nursing students in a multi specialty, non government tertiary care teaching hospital in Kathmandu. Summary statistics and chi-square tests were performed and the type I error was set at 0.05 for analysis. RESULTS Out of the total 336 participants of the study, there was significant difference in hand washing practice among the participants (P<0.001). Hand washing practice both before and after the patient examination was found to be highest among the nursing students followed by the nurses. The frequency of hand washing after exposure to hospital instruments, blood or other body fluids among the participants was remarkably high (more than 90%) in all groups. Nearly 99% of the participants agreed upon the fact that hand washing could be an effective measure in preventing health care associated infections. CONCLUSIONS The healthcare workers understand the importance of hand washing but tend to wash their hands selectively depending upon the indications. The majority of the health care workers wash their hands after the patient care than before.
Collapse
|
17
|
Park MY, Yoon D, Choi NK, Lee J, Lee K, Lim HS, Park BJ, Kim JH, Park RW. Construction of an open-access QT database for detecting the proarrhythmia potential of marketed drugs: ECG-ViEW. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2012; 92:393-6. [PMID: 22828716 DOI: 10.1038/clpt.2012.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Information about the QT interval from surface electrocardiograms (ECGs) is essential for surveillance of the proarrhythmia potential of marketed drugs. However, ECG records obtained in daily practice cannot be easily used for this purpose without labor-intensive manual effort. This study was aimed at constructing an open-access QT database, the Electrocardiogram Vigilance with Electronic Data Warehouse (ECG-ViEW). This longitudinal observational database contains 710,369 measurements of QT and associated clinical data from 371,401 patients. The de-identified database is freely available at http://www.ecgview.org.
Collapse
|
18
|
Rhee CW, Lee J, Oh S, Choi NK, Park BJ. Use of bisphosphonate and risk of atrial fibrillation in older women with osteoporosis. Osteoporos Int 2012; 23:247-54. [PMID: 21431993 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-011-1608-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2010] [Accepted: 03/03/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Concerns have been raised among clinicians and patients whether or not bisphosphonates increase the risk of atrial fibrillation. In this large cohort study, increased risk of atrial fibrillation was not found to be associated with bisphosphonate. In fact, bisphosphonate even showed a protective effect against cardiac arrhythmia compared to other osteoporosis medications. INTRODUCTION Increased risk of atrial fibrillation among bisphosphonate users has been reported; however, the results from these studies are controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of atrial fibrillation associated with bisphosphonate use in older women. METHODS We used the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service claims database from May 1, 2005 to June 30, 2006. Retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on women 65 years or older with newly diagnosed cases of osteoporosis (ICD 10 code: M80, M81) who had not previously taken any medications for osteoporosis. Bisphosphonate-exposed and non-exposed patients were followed until they were either diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (ICD 10 code: I48) or until the end of the study. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate hazard ratios and the 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Atrial fibrillation was reported in 626 of the 120,319 patients (0.52%) treated with bisphosphonates and 66 of 9,863 patients (0.67%) treated with other osteoporosis medications. Overall hazard ratio for developing atrial fibrillation in the bisphosphonate-treated group was 0.52 (95% CIs, 0.29-0.91). In patients with a medication possession ratio greater than 0.7, the hazard ratio was lower (HR 0.41, 95% CIs 0.23-0.75). In the subgroup analysis, alendronate showed a statistically significant protective effect against the risk of atrial fibrillation with a hazard ratio of 0.75 (95% CI, 0.58-0.97). CONCLUSION Among older Korean women with osteoporosis, bisphosphonate was found to have a protective effect against atrial fibrillation.
Collapse
|
19
|
Park BJ, Shetty S, Ahlquist A, Greenbaum A, Miller JL, Motsi A, McCarthy K, Govender N. Long-term follow-up and survival of antiretroviral-naive patients with cryptococcal meningitis in the pre-antiretroviral therapy era, Gauteng Province, South Africa. Int J STD AIDS 2011; 22:199-203. [PMID: 21515751 DOI: 10.1258/ijsa.2010.010235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is a major cause of death among HIV-infected persons in sub-Saharan Africa. We conducted a study to describe the long-term outcomes during the pre-antiretroviral post-ART therapy period. Enrolled cases were those detected through population-based surveillance in Gauteng Province, South Africa, and diagnosed during March-November 2002 and July-September 2003 from eight large hospitals representing academic, provincial and rural settings. Of 1089 case-patients diagnosed with CM, 721 (70%) survived to discharge. Among the 256 with follow-up information, 154 (60%) were established to have died, 44% of whom died as outpatients. Overall, the 14- and 90-day survival post-diagnosis was 68% and 41%, respectively. On Cox proportional hazards multivariable analysis, severe disease was associated with shorter survival time; having received any antifungal treatment for the cryptococcal episode was associated with increased survival time at follow-up. Although most patients in this cohort survived the initial hospitalization, only 41% were still alive three months after diagnosis, with nearly half of deaths occurring outside a hospital. These data are an important baseline from which to measure effectiveness of public health management of CM in South Africa.
Collapse
|
20
|
Alexander BD, Schell WA, Siston AM, Rao CY, Bower WA, Balajee SA, Howell DN, Moore ZS, Noble-Wang J, Rhyne JA, Fleischauer AT, Maillard JM, Kuehnert M, Vikraman D, Collins BH, Marroquin CE, Park BJ. Fatal Apophysomyces elegans infection transmitted by deceased donor renal allografts. Am J Transplant 2010; 10:2161-7. [PMID: 20883549 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2010.03216.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Two patients developed renal mucormycosis following transplantation of kidneys from the same donor, a near-drowning victim in a motor vehicle crash. Genotypically, indistinguishable strains of Apophysomyces elegans were recovered from both recipients. We investigated the source of the infection including review of medical records, environmental sampling at possible locations of contamination and query for additional cases at other centers. Histopathology of the explanted kidneys revealed extensive vascular invasion by aseptate, fungal hyphae with relative sparing of the renal capsules suggesting a vascular route of contamination. Disseminated infection in the donor could not be definitively established. A. elegans was not recovered from the same lots of reagents used for organ recovery or environmental samples and no other organ transplant-related cases were identified. This investigation suggests either isolated contamination of the organs during recovery or undiagnosed disseminated donor infection following a near-drowning event. Although no changes to current organ recovery or transplant procedures are recommended, public health officials and transplant physicians should consider the possibility of mucormycosis transmitted via organs in the future, particularly for near-drowning events. Attention to aseptic technique during organ recovery and processing is re-emphasized.
Collapse
|
21
|
Li Q, Kobayashi M, Wakayama Y, Inagaki H, Katsumata M, Hirata Y, Hirata K, Shimizu T, Kawada T, Park BJ, Ohira T, Kagawa T, Miyazaki Y. Effect of phytoncide from trees on human natural killer cell function. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2010; 22:951-9. [PMID: 20074458 DOI: 10.1177/039463200902200410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that the forest environment enhanced human natural killer (NK) cell activity, the number of NK cells, and intracellular anti-cancer proteins in lymphocytes, and that the increased NK activity lasted for more than 7 days after trips to forests both in male and female subjects. To explore the factors in the forest environment that activated human NK cells, in the present study we investigate the effect of essential oils from trees on human immune function in twelve healthy male subjects, age 37-60 years, who stayed at an urban hotel for 3 nights from 7.00 p.m. to 8.00 a.m. Aromatic volatile substances (phytoncides) were produced by vaporizing Chamaecyparis obtusa (hinoki cypress) stem oil with a humidifier in the hotel room during the night stay. Blood samples were taken on the last day and urine samples were analysed every day during the stay. NK activity, the percentages of NK and T cells, and granulysin, perforin, granzyme A/B-expressing lymphocytes in blood, and the concentrations of adrenaline and noradrenaline in urine were measured. Similar control measurements were made before the stay on a normal working day. The concentrations of phytoncides in the hotel room air were measured. Phytoncide exposure significantly increased NK activity and the percentages of NK, perforin, granulysin, and granzyme A/B-expressing cells, and significantly decreased the percentage of T cells, and the concentrations of adrenaline and noradrenaline in urine. Phytoncides, such as alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, were detected in the hotel room air. These findings indicate that phytoncide exposure and decreased stress hormone levels may partially contribute to increased NK activity.
Collapse
|
22
|
Lim WS, Park JB, Park JY, Park BJ, Yeom GY. Low damage atomic layer etching of ZrO2 by using BCl3 gas and ar neutral beam. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2009; 9:7379-7382. [PMID: 19908792 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2009.1748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the etch characteristics of ZrO2 etched using an atomic layer etching (ALET) system with BCl3 gas for adsorption and an Ar neutral beam for desorption. The effect of the BCl3 gas pressure and Ar neutral beam dose on the etch characteristics was examined. The results showed that the ZrO2 etch rate was maintained at a constant etch rate of 1.07 angstroms/cycle at a BCl3 gas pressure > 0.15 mTorr and an Ar beam flux > 1.485 x 1016 atoms/cm2 x cycle. Under these constant etch rate conditions, the surface roughness of the etched ZrO2 was similar to that of the as-received ZrO2. The surface composition of ZrO2 etched by ALET was compared with that etched by BCl3 inductively coupled plasma (ICP). The surface composition of ZrO2 etched by ALET showed a similar composition to that of the as-received ZrO2 while that etched by BCl3 ICP showed a Zr-rich surface.
Collapse
|
23
|
Park BJ, Heerdt PM. Minimally invasive surgical techniques in the treatment of lung cancer. MINERVA CHIR 2009; 64:573-588. [PMID: 20029355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Despite recent advances in molecular characterization, targeted and adjuvant therapies of NSCLC, surgical resection remains the mainstay of curative treatment. Minimally invasive video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) techniques, in particular VATS lobectomy, are being increasingly utilized over traditional thoracotomy approaches in the treatment of localized NSCLC for the reported benefits with respect to postoperative recovery and the conviction of oncologic equivalence. This article will review the major VATS procedures, including their development, outcomes, and purported advantages over thoracotomy, as well as highlight new advances, such as robotic-assisted procedures.
Collapse
|
24
|
Kim YH, Park BJ, Choi HJ, Choi SB. Preparation of polystyrene/polyaniline composite particles and their electrorheology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/149/1/012017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
|
25
|
Zhang K, Lim JY, Park BJ, Jin HJ, Choi HJ. Carboxylic acid functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube-adsorption onto poly(methyl methacrylate) microspheres. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2009; 9:1058-1061. [PMID: 19441455 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2009.c087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
We prepared multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) coated polymeric microspheres i.e., carboxylic acid functionalized MWNT (c-MWNT) adsorbed onto poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microspheres. Initially, the MWNT was functionalized with carboxylic acid functional group and PMMA microspheres were synthesized via a dispersion polymerization method separately. The c-MWNT/PMMA microspheres were then fabricated by blending technique i.e., simple mixing of c-MWNT and PMMA microspheres dispersed solutions under ultrasonication. Surface morphologies of the c-MWNT-adsorbed PMMA microspheres were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In addition, c-MWNT/PMMA microsphere suspension dispersed in silicone oil showed typical electrorheological characteristics of fibril structure under an applied electric field.
Collapse
|