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Hsieh YY, Hsu TY, Lee CC, Chang CC, Tsai HD, Tsai CH. Prenatal diagnosis of thoracopelvic dysplasia. A case report. THE JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 1999; 44:737-40. [PMID: 10483547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thoracopelvic dysplasia, a variant of asphyxiating thoracic dysplasia (Jeune syndrome), is an uncommon skeletal disorder characterized by a small thorax, pelvic abnormalities and other complex, combined anomalies, including hypomelia, polydactyly and renal anomalies. CASE A 32-year-old woman, gravida 1, para 0, was referred at 27 weeks' gestation due to polyhydramnios. Sonography revealed hydramnios, low fetal thoracic circumference (TC) and abdominal circumference (AC) ratio (0.78), skull and skin edema, increased nuchal translucency (7 mm), micrognathia, low-set ears, left cardiac deviation (66 degrees), overriding fingers, and club and rock-buttock feet. Amniocentesis revealed a normal karyotype (46, XY). Asphyxiating thoracic dysplasia was considered. At 40 weeks' gestation, a male infant was delivered vaginally. Besides the prenatal findings, cryptorchidism and high-arched palate were noted. Radiography of the infant revealed a narrow, funnel-shaped thorax and small pelvis with short, flared iliac bones; poorly developed acetabulum; and small, shallow sciatic notch. No dyspnea was observed at five months postpartum. CONCLUSION Thoracopelvic dysplasia should be considered when a low TC/AC ratio (< 0.8) is observed. In this case the final diagnosis was made after detailed exclusion of other disorders combined with observation of a small thorax. Prenatal diagnosis of thoracopelvic dysplasia is possible.
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302
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Chang SS, Wu ML, Deng JF, Lee CC, Chin TF, Liao SJ. Poisoning by Datura leaves used as edible wild vegetables. VETERINARY AND HUMAN TOXICOLOGY 1999; 41:242-5. [PMID: 10434380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
The causes of Datura intoxication include medication overdose, misuse of edible vegetables, deliberate abuse as a hallucinogen, homicidal or robbery and accidental intoxication from contaminated food. We report an incident of 14 people with Datura intoxication caused by ingesting wild Datura suaveolans for food. The incubation period was 15 to 30 min. The symptoms/signs were dizziness, dry mouth, flushed skin, palpitation, nausea, drowsiness, tachycardia, blurred vision, mydriasis, hyperthermia, disorientation, vomiting, agitation, delirium, urine retention, hypertension and coma. Three patients were hospitalized for 2-3 days. Thirteen persons received supportive fluid therapy. One patient did not receive medical therapy, he induced vomiting and drank a lot of water. Four patients presented with delirium/coma and 3 received physostigmine therapy with good response. One patient was intubated because of coma and respiratory depression. Three persons needed Foley catheterization for urine retention or coma status. One patient had a complication of urinary tract infection and antibiotic management. All patients recovered with no sequelae.
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303
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Chen CP, Chern SR, Lee CC, Town DD, Chen WL, Wang W. Bilateral renal agenesis and fetal ascites in association with partial trisomy 13 and partial trisomy 16 due to a 3:1 segregation of maternal reciprocal translocation t(13;16)(q12.3; p13.2). Prenat Diagn 1999; 19:783-6. [PMID: 10451531 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0223(199908)19:8<783::aid-pd635>3.0.co;2-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A female fetus with bilateral renal agenesis and fetal ascites was found to have partial trisomy 13 (pter-q12.3) and partial trisomy 16 (p13.2-pter), 47,XX,+der(13)t(13;16)(q12.3; p13.2)mat. The chromosomal aberration was due to a 3:1 segregation with tertiary trisomy transmitted from a maternal reciprocal translocation 13;16. Prenatal ultrasound of a 29-year-old, gravida 2, para 0 woman at 22 gestational weeks showed fetal ascites, severe oligohydramnios and non-visualization of fetal urinary bladder and kidneys. The pregnancy was terminated. At delivery, the proband displayed dysmorphic features of hypertelorism, a prominent glabella, epicanthic fold, a stubby nose with a depressed nasal bridge, anteverted nares, thin lips, micrognathia, low-set ears, a short neck and a distended abdomen. Necropsy confirmed bilateral renal agenesis and ascites. A cytogenetic study performed on fibroblasts obtained from the proband's skin revealed an extra supernumerary chromosome. The mother was later found to have a reciprocal translocation. Fluorescence in situ hybridization for a submicroscopic deletion in chromosome 22q11 in the proband was negative. The parents had no urological anomalies. Our observation further extends the clinical spectrum associated with proximal trisomy 13q and distal trisomy 16p. We suggest prenatal cytogenetic analysis in fetuses with urological anomalies, including renal agenesis, to uncover underlying genetic disorders.
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304
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Chou YY, Lee CC, Chen TJ, Wei CP. Atypical central neurocytoma: report of a case. J Formos Med Assoc 1999; 98:573-7. [PMID: 10502912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Central neurocytomas are rare, relatively benign intraventricular neoplasms composed of uniform round cells with neuronal differentiation. The majority of previously reported central neurocytomas did not recurr after tumor removal and the patients had favorable postoperative outcomes. Only a few cases with malignant histopathology or malignant behavior have been noted. Atypical central neurocytoma is a new entity that was first described in the literature in 1997. The tumors have been noted to exhibit a Ki-67 labeling index of 2% or more, or vascular proliferation, mitoses, and necrosis, or both. Atypical histologic findings are usually associated with a somewhat less favorable clinical course and requires postoperative radiotherapy. We report a unique case of a 33-year-old man with a large intraventricular central neurocytoma. The characteristic histopathologic picture, the immunoreactivity for both synaptophysin and neuron-specific enolase, and the ultrastructural features of neuronal differentiation distinguished it from ependymoma and oligodendroglioma. The mitotic activity (up to 3 mitoses/10 high power field) and the high percentage of Ki-67-staining tumor cells (labeling index, 5.0%) in our case were consistent with the atypical variant of central neurocytoma. The patient underwent craniotomy and partial resection of the tumor. Unfortunately, he died of hydrocephalus and brain edema, the next day.
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305
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Zheng B, Larkin DW, Albrecht U, Sun ZS, Sage M, Eichele G, Lee CC, Bradley A. The mPer2 gene encodes a functional component of the mammalian circadian clock. Nature 1999; 400:169-73. [PMID: 10408444 DOI: 10.1038/22118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 411] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms are driven by endogenous biological clocks that regulate many biochemical, physiological and behavioural processes in a wide range of life forms. In mammals, there is a master circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the anterior hypothalamus. Three putative mammalian homologues (mPer1, mPer2 and mPer3) of the Drosophila circadian clock gene period (per) have been identified. The mPer genes share a conserved PAS domain (a dimerization domain found in Per, Arnt and Sim) and show a circadian expression pattern in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. To assess the in vivo function of mPer2, we generated and characterized a deletion mutation in the PAS domain of the mouse mPer2 gene. Here we show that mice homozygous for this mutation display a shorter circadian period followed by a loss of circadian rhythmicity in constant darkness. The mutation also diminishes the oscillating expression of both mPer1 and mPer2 in the suprachiasmatic nucleus, indicating that mPer2 may regulate mPer1 in vivo. These data provide evidence that an mPer gene functions in the circadian clock, and define mPer2 as a component of the mammalian circadian oscillator.
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306
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Lee CC, Wanibuchi H, Yamamoto S, Hirose M, Hayashi Y, Fukushima S. Molecular cytogenetic identification of cyclin D1 gene amplification in a renal pelvic tumor attributed to phenacetin abuse. Pathol Int 1999; 49:648-52. [PMID: 10504527 DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1827.1999.00902.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Despite extensive epidemiologic evidence of phenacetin abuse as a risk factor for renal pelvic carcinomas, genetic alterations in the resultant tumors remain largely unclear. In this report, a phenacetin-associated renal pelvic carcinoma (histologically a transitional-cell carcinoma) from an 80-year-old female patient was evaluated by molecular cytogenetic methods. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to identify chromosome gains or losses for the cyclin D1, p53, Rb and c-myc genes and the ploidy of their respective chromosomes. Cyclin D1 gene amplification, but normal copy numbers of p53, Rb and c-myc, and normal ploidy of chromosomes 8, 11, 13 and 17 were observed. Expression of cyclin D1 protein was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. In the absence of p53, Rb or c-myc abnormalities, the results suggested that cyclin D1 gene amplification and its protein overexpression may be involved in the genesis of renal pelvic carcinomas associated with phenacetin abuse.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Analgesics, Non-Narcotic/adverse effects
- Carcinoma, Transitional Cell/chemically induced
- Carcinoma, Transitional Cell/genetics
- Carcinoma, Transitional Cell/pathology
- Chromosomes, Human/genetics
- Cyclin D1/analysis
- Fatal Outcome
- Female
- Genes, Retinoblastoma/genetics
- Genes, bcl-1/genetics
- Genes, myc/genetics
- Genes, p53/genetics
- Humans
- Immunoenzyme Techniques
- In Situ Hybridization, Fluorescence
- Kidney Neoplasms/chemically induced
- Kidney Neoplasms/genetics
- Kidney Neoplasms/pathology
- Kidney Pelvis/drug effects
- Kidney Pelvis/pathology
- Phenacetin/adverse effects
- Ploidies
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307
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Kim UK, Cho MS, Chae JJ, Kim SH, Hong SS, Lee SH, Namkoong Y, Lee CC. Allelic frequencies of six (CA)n microsatellite markers of the dystrophin gene in the Korean population. Hum Hered 1999; 49:205-7. [PMID: 10436382 DOI: 10.1159/000022876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Using the polymerase chain reaction, we examined the allele frequencies and heterozygosities of six (CA)n markers of the dystrophin gene in Koreans. Allele frequencies of these markers were different from those reported for Caucasians. The heterozygosity values for these markers range from 29 to 86%. With the exception of the STR50 marker, these values were lower than those of Caucasians. However, all markers except for the 3'CA marker showed PIC values over 0.5, suggesting a high degree of polymorphism. Therefore, this study will be useful in linkage analysis for Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy families in the Korean population.
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308
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Hsieh YY, Chang CC, Tsai HD, Yang TC, Lee CC, Tsai CH. Twin vs. singleton pregnancy. Clinical characteristics and latency periods in preterm premature rupture of membranes. THE JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 1999; 44:616-20. [PMID: 10442325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical characteristics and latency periods (latencies) of preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PPROM) in twin vs. singleton pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN Between January 1986 and December 1996, data on all women with singleton and twin gestations complicated by PPROM were reviewed. Perinatal morbidity, mortality and latencies between singleton and twin pregnancies were compared. A further division according to PPROM at < 30 and > or = 30 weeks' gestation was made in both groups. Their latencies were compared. RESULTS A total of 131 singleton and 48 twin pregnancies with PPROM between 20 and 36 weeks' gestation were included in this series. Regardless of the gestational age at PPROM, the mean latencies of singleton and twin pregnancies were statistically similar (4.4 +/- 3.3 vs. 3.4 +/- 2.9 days, nonsignificant). When PPROM occurred at > or = 30 weeks, the latency of twin pregnancies was shorter than that of singleton pregnancies (2.5 +/- 1.9 vs. 3.7 +/- 2.6 days, P < .05). In both groups, the latencies of PPROM at < 30 weeks were longer than that at > or = 30 weeks (singleton, 5.6 +/- 4.0 vs. 3.7 +/- 2.6 days, P < .005; twin, 4.8 +/- 3.5 vs. 2.5 +/- 1.9 days, P < .05). We also observed a higher percentage of deliveries within the initial 48 hours in twin pregnancies: 50% of women delivered within 48 hours after PPROM and 91.7% within 7 days. In contrast, 26.7% and 85.5% of singleton pregnancies with PPROM were delivered within 48 hours and 7 days, respectively. Perinatal and neonatal outcomes in both groups were similar. CONCLUSION This investigation provides the basis for patient counseling and management in twin pregnancies with PPROM. In general, singleton and twin pregnancies with PPROM had similar latencies. Latency in PPROM at < 30 was longer than that of PPROM at > or = 30 weeks' gestation in both singleton and twin pregnancies. When PPROM occurred at < 30 weeks' gestation, both groups appeared to have similar latencies. In pregnancies with PPROM at > or = 30 weeks' gestation, latency in twins was shorter than in singleton pregnancies. In twin pregnancies with PPROM after 30 weeks' gestation, prompt steroid administration for fetal lung maturity should be considered.
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309
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Huang TS, Lee CC, Chao Y, Shu CH, Chen LT, Chen LL, Chen MH, Yuan CC, Whang-Peng J. A novel podophyllotoxin-derived compound GL331 is more potent than its congener VP-16 in killing refractory cancer cells. Pharm Res 1999; 16:997-1002. [PMID: 10450922 DOI: 10.1023/a:1018971313256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE GL331 is a new homolog of VP-16, and has demonstrated more efficacious anti-cancer activity in both the in vitro and in vivo lymphoma systems. To extensively explore GL331's clinical value, we furthermore evaluate the cytotoxicity and apoptosis-inducing activity of GL331 in several human cell lines from cancers that are not normally treated with VP-16. METHODS By MTT and clonogenic survival assays, the cytotoxicities of GL331 and VP-16 were evaluated in a variety of cell lines including nasopharyngeal, hepatocellular, gastric, colon, cervical, and neuroblastoma cancer types. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the MDR-1 level in these cell lines. By Annexin V-staining flow cytometry and detection of DNA ladders, the apoptosis-inducing activities of GL331 and VP-16 were also evaluated. RESULTS GL331 showed more efficacy than its congener VP-16 in killing cancer cells. The estimated ID50 of GL331 were 2.5 to 17-fold lowerthan those of VP-16. GL331 possessed more cell-killing activity even in MDR-1-overexpressing cell lines such as HCC36 and SW620. Its higher cytotoxicity could be attributed by the elevated ability to induce apoptotic cell death. CONCLUSION GL331's overriding drug resistance and higher cancer cell-killing activity suggest its superiority in clinical cancer therapy.
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310
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Tsai FJ, Tsai LP, Lin SP, Tsai CH, Peng CT, Wang TR, Lee CC, Wu JY. An R248C mutation of FGFR3 leading to thanatophoric dysplasia type I. ACTA PAEDIATRICA TAIWANICA = TAIWAN ER KE YI XUE HUI ZA ZHI 1999; 40:262-4. [PMID: 10910625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Thanatophoric dysplasia (TD) is the most common form of lethal neonatal dwarfism with micromelic shortening of the limbs, macrocephaly, platyspondyly, and reduced thoracic cavity. R248C mutation in the extracellular domain of fibrobast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) was common in TD type I. Two TD type I patients were examined for R248C mutation by use of restriction digestion and direct sequencing. The results showed that both patients carried R248C mutation. Because of the homogeneity of R248C mutation among different ethnic populations, all TD patients should be analysed using this PCR-based method presented in this work.
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311
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Park WH, Lee YY, Kim ES, Seol JG, Jung CW, Lee CC, Kim BK. Lovastatin-induced inhibition of HL-60 cell proliferation via cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Anticancer Res 1999; 19:3133-40. [PMID: 10652602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
An inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, lovastatin, induces growth arrest and cell death in a wide variety of malignant cells in vitro. We analyzed the effect of lovastatin on myeloid leukemic cell lines. Lovastatin significantly inhibited the proliferation of 7 cell lines among 11 myeloid leukemic cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. In order to address the mechanism of antileukemic effect of lovastatin, cell cycle analysis was attempted in HL-60 cells, showing that lovastatin induced G1 arrest in HL-60 cells following 72 h of drug exposure (1.5 microM, 5 microM and 10 microM) in a dose-dependent manner. Analysis of G1 regulatory proteins demonstrated that the protein levels of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 2, CDK4, CDK6 and cyclin E were decreased after treatment with lovastatin (10 microM) in a time-dependent manner, but not cyclin D1. In addition, lovastatin increased the protein level of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor (CDKI), p27, and markedly enhanced the binding of p27 with CDK2 and CDK4 more than CDK6 after 24 h exposure. At higher doses of lovastatin (50 mM, 100 mM, 200 mM), a significant apoptosis was observed as evidenced by FACS analysis with annexin V staining, which was associated with downregulation of Bcl-2 protein. These results suggest that lovastatin inhibits the proliferation of myeloid leukemic cells via G1 arrest in association with p27 induction and is an effective inducer of apoptosis in HL-60 cells.
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312
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Tsai CH, Tsai FJ, Wu JY, Chang JG, Lee CC, Lin SP, Yang CF, Jong YJ, Lo MC. Mutation analysis of Wilson disease in Taiwan and description of six new mutations. Hum Mutat 1999. [PMID: 9829905 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-1004(1998)12:6<370::aid-humu2>3.0.co;2-s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Wilson disease is an autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism. Mutation screening in Wilson disease has led to the detection of at least 89 disease-specific mutations. Some mutations appear to be population specific, while others are common to many populations. In this study, 38 Taiwanese patients with Wilson disease were screened using single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis, followed by direct DNA sequencing. We found 12 different mutations, six of which were novel. All our detected mutations were found to be in eight exons. Four mutations in three loci (Arg778Gln, Arg778Leu, Gly943Asp, and Pro992Leu) accounted for about 58% of the mutant alleles we detected. Using an RNA transcriptional assay, we confirmed that both of our detected splice-site mutations resulted in exon skipping.
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313
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Kim UK, Shin JH, Lee KB, Kim SH, Chae JJ, Hong SS, Jin DK, Namkoong Y, Lee CC. Polymorphisms in the human autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease 2 (PKD2) gene. Mol Cell Probes 1999; 13:247-50. [PMID: 10369752 DOI: 10.1006/mcpr.1999.0243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Three polymorphisms of the PKD2 (MIM 173910) gene in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease are reported: (1) a substitution from ATT (isoleucine) to GTT (valine) at codon 452; (2) a substitution from CGG (arginine) to CAG (glutamine) at codon 848; and (3) a substitution from G to A in intron 4 of the gene. The minor allelic frequencies of codon 452 and intron 4 in the Korean population were estimated to be 0.03 and 0.32, respectively. Although the codon 848 substitution was not observed in 45 unrelated healthy Korean people, the substitution did not cosegregate with the disease phenotype, suggesting that this was a rare, non-deleterious alteration.
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314
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Hsieh YY, Chang CC, Tsai HD, Yang TC, Lee CC, Tsai CH. The prenatal diagnosis of Pierre-Robin sequence. Prenat Diagn 1999; 19:567-9. [PMID: 10416975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the spectrum of prenatal sonographic and chromosomal findings, associated anomalies and perinatal and neonatal outcomes in cases with Pierre-Robin sequence. All cases (20) with Pierre Robin sequence, who were born at China Medical College Hospital between 1990 and 1997, were included and analysed in this series. 12 pregnancies (60 per cent) were complicated by polyhydramnios and 9 (45 per cent) were combined with cleft palate. Four cases (20 per cent) with cardiac anomalies were also observed. Two fetuses (10 per cent) had abnormal karyotyping (one trisomy 21, one trisomy 18). All fetuses were delivered at or near term. Male deviation was observed in cases with isolated Pierre-Robin sequence or combined mild anomalies (male female ratio: 13:3). Two neonatal mortalities and three with mental retardation were observed. This investigation provides a basis for counselling patients with fetal micrognathia or neonatal Pierre-Robin sequence. The main prenatal sonographic findings of Pierre-Robin sequence are micrognathia, polyhydramnios and cleft palate. In cases of polyhydramnios, sonographic examination of the facial profile and palate are recommended. After the finding of polyhydramnios, micrognathia, and even cleft palate, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of neonatal Pierre-Robin sequence. Cardiac evaluation and karyotyping is also recommended.
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315
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Chae JJ, Kim SH, Kim UK, Han KH, Kim HS, Kastner DL, Namkoong Y, Park YB, Lee CC. Three novel small deletion mutations of the LDL receptor gene in Korean patients with familial hypercholesterolemia. Clin Genet 1999; 55:325-31. [PMID: 10422802 DOI: 10.1034/j.1399-0004.1999.550505.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor gene from 80 unrelated Korean patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) was analyzed to screen for small structural rearrangements that could not be detected by Southern blot hybridization. Three different small deletions were detected in exon 11 of 3 FH patients and were characterized by DNA sequence analysis. Of them two mutations are in-frame 36-bp (FH 2) and 9-bp (FH 34) deletions that result in the loss of twelve amino acids (from Met510 to Ile521) and three amino acids (Thr513, Asp514 and Trp515), respectively. Both mutations are located in the third of the five YWTD motifs of the LDL receptor gene. The third mutation (FH 400) is a 2-bp deletion that shifts the translational reading frame and results in a prematurely terminated receptor protein. The generation of a 36-bp deletion can be explained by the formation of a hairpin-loop structure mediated by inverted repeat sequences. On the other hand, the mechanism responsible for the 9- and the 2-bp deletions is probably strand-slippage mispairing mediated by short direct repeats. All of these three deletions are novel mutations. Each of the three deletions was detected only in a single pedigree out of 80 FH families analyzed.
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316
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Shen WC, Lee CC. Computerized tomographic angiography in the evaluation of cerebral infarction. ZHONGHUA YI XUE ZA ZHI = CHINESE MEDICAL JOURNAL; FREE CHINA ED 1999; 62:255-60. [PMID: 10389279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To evaluate the feasibility of computerized tomographic angiography (CTA) for the diagnosis of cerebral infarction. METHODS Fourteen patients (nine men, five women; average age, 60 years) who presented with symptoms of acute cerebral infarction underwent computerized tomography (CT) and CTA, using a Picker PQ 2000 Spiral CT. The infarcted area was first evaluated by CT and then occlusive sites of arteries were evaluated by CTA. RESULTS In seven patients in the very early stage of acute cerebral infarction involving the middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory, the initial CT did not clearly demonstrate the infarcted area. CTA detected the occlusive site of the MCA and helped anticipate the area of infarction. Follow-up CT confirmed the infarction clearly. CTA was not useful for small infarctions in the basal ganglia, thalamus or brainstem. CONCLUSIONS CTA in association with CT is a feasible and good technique for the diagnosis of early-stage acute cerebral infarction. It can detect the occlusive sites in the main arteries, especially the middle cerebral artery, and as of benefit for anticipation of the ensuing edematous area. However, for small infarcts in the basal ganglia, CTA does not provide good diagnostic images.
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317
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Lin JJ, Lin GY, Shih C, Lin SZ, Chang DC, Lee CC. Benefit of bilateral pallidotomy in the treatment of generalized dystonia. Case report. J Neurosurg 1999; 90:974-6. [PMID: 10223469 DOI: 10.3171/jns.1999.90.5.0974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This 29-year-old man with cerebral palsy complicated by generalized dystonia was treated by simultaneous bilateral posteroventral pallidotomy. Postoperatively, there was slow, but steady, improvement in the patient's dystonia and disability. However, the improvement in abnormal movements was only prominent for cervical dystonia and oromandibular dyskinesia. The patient's Burke-Fahn-Marsden dystonia scores were 51 preoperatively and 37, 33.5 and 33.5, at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, respectively, demonstrating a maximum improvement of 34%. These results suggest that pallidotomy can be an alternative therapy for those patients suffering from intractable generalized dystonia.
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318
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Lee CC, Sidani MA, Hogikyan RV, Supiano MA. The effects of ramipril on sympathetic nervous system function in older patients with hypertension. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999; 65:420-7. [PMID: 10223780 DOI: 10.1016/s0009-9236(99)70137-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are important interactions between the renin-angiotensin system and the sympathetic nervous system. Therapy with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may suppress sympathetic nervous system activity. OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that long-term ACE inhibition by ramipril will suppress sympathetic nervous system activity and up-regulate alpha-adrenergic receptor responsiveness in older patients with hypertension. METHODS This placebo-controlled, double-blind randomized study was conducted at the University Hospital, General Clinical Research Center, University of Michigan Medical Center. Fifteen healthy older patients with mild to moderate hypertension received 8 weeks of ramipril therapy with doses ranging from 5 mg to 20 mg. The following measurements were obtained: plasma norepinephrine levels; norepinephrine kinetic parameters derived from plasma norepinephrine and 3H-norepinephrine levels obtained during infusion and disappearance of 3H-norepinephrine, including the extravascular norepinephrine release rate, norepinephrine clearance, spillover fraction, and volume of distribution; forearm blood flow; platelet membrane alpha2-receptor binding characteristics, and adenylyl cyclase activity. RESULTS Although plasma norepinephrine levels increased in the subjects treated with ramipril, there were no significant differences from baseline in the rate of norepinephrine appearance into the vascular compartment (P = .76) or in the rate of norepinephrine release into the extravascular compartment (P = .92). In addition, no differences were observed in other norepinephrine kinetic parameters (norepinephrine spillover fraction, norepinephrine volume of distribution, or clearance) between the ramipril and placebo groups. Consistent with this, there was no apparent change in measures of vascular or platelet alpha-adrenergic receptor responsiveness. CONCLUSIONS Ramipril therapy did not suppress systemic sympathetic nervous system activity, alter other norepinephrine kinetic parameters, or alter alpha-adrenergic responsiveness in older patients with hypertension.
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319
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Lee CC, Su WW, Hunder GG. Dysarthria associated with giant cell arteritis. J Rheumatol 1999; 26:931-2. [PMID: 10229420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Over a one month period, a 74-year-old man developed typical features of giant cell arteritis (GCA) including visual changes, headache, scalp tenderness, and an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate. In addition, he had reproducible painless dysarthria that was precipitated by chewing or prolonged talking and was relieved by resting the jaw. The dysarthria with chewing along with the other classical symptoms of GCA subsided with treatment. To our knowledge this is the first report of painless dysarthria associated with GCA.
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Lee CC, Chen HL, Hsu JC, Tien CL. Interference coatings based on synthesized silicon nitride. APPLIED OPTICS 1999; 38:2078-2082. [PMID: 18319766 DOI: 10.1364/ao.38.002078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Silicon nitrides are synthesized by ion-assisted deposition with only one coating material and a nitrogen-ion-beam source. All the SiN(x) films are amorphous and mechanically strong. A wide range of refractive indices from 3.43 to 1.72 at a wavelength of 1550 nm is obtained. Near-IR antireflection coating and a bandpass filter based on the multilayers of SiN(x) and Si are demonstrated.
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Liang JT, Chang KJ, Chen JC, Lee CC, Cheng YM, Hsu HC, Chien CT, Wang SM. Clinicopathologic and carcinogenetic appraisal of DNA replication error in sporadic T3N0M0 stage colorectal cancer after curative resection. HEPATO-GASTROENTEROLOGY 1999; 46:883-90. [PMID: 10370632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS DNA replication error (RER) was found to play a role in the carcinogenesis of a subset of sporadic colorectal cancers. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinicopathologic implications of RER in T3N0M0 stage colorectal cancers. To better understand the carcinogenesis of sporadic colorectal cancer, the RER status was further correlated with the alterations of K-ras, p53 and deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) genes which were frequently involved in the adenoma-carcinoma sequence. METHODOLOGY Seventy-eight patients with curatively resected T3N0M0 stage sporadic colorectal cancer were accumulated. The stored frozen tissues were retrieved for analyses of 1) microsatellite instability at 7 distinct chromosomal loci, 2) loss of heterozygosity at DCC gene, 3) K-ras gene mutation, 4) p53 expression, and 5) DNA content. The RER status was correlated with various clinicopathologic and molecular genetic factors. The survival of patients stratified by RER status was analyzed by Kaplan-Meier estimator. RESULTS The RER-positive tumor was detected in 32.1% (25/78) of patients. The RER-positive cancer patients presented with distinct clinicopathologic features including young age of tumor onset, proximal tumor location, mucin production in histology, a higher rate of synchronous and metachronous colorectal cancers, and an increased incidence of extracolonic primary cancer. Patients with RER-positive tumor were found to have an improved prognosis with the 5-year survival probability of 76% and 45% in RER-positive and RER-negative groups, respectively (p < 0.05). The RER-positive tumors tended to have normal p53 expression, DNA diploidy, and a lower DNA index. The rate for the loss of heterozygosity of DCC gene was significantly lower in RER-positive tumors. RER status was not associated with K-ras mutation. CONCLUSIONS The clinicopathologic features and carcinogenesis of RER-positive sporadic colorectal cancers were considered different from those of RER-negative tumors. The presence of RER may identify a subset of less aggressive tumors with good prognosis in T3N0M0 stage colorectal cancers.
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Lee CC, Chou YH, Chen TW, Wu TH, Charng YP, Chiou HJ, Tiu CM, Yang WC, Ng YY. Engorgement of brachiocephalic vein after creation of an AV fistula--a result of sternoclavicular joint osteophyte. Nephrol Dial Transplant 1999; 14:757-9. [PMID: 10193835 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/14.3.757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Hsieh YY, Chang CC, Tsai HD, Lee CC, Tsai FJ, Tsai CH. Prenatal diagnosis of dyssegmental dysplasia. A case report. THE JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 1999; 44:303-5. [PMID: 10202752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the first use of sonography, most fetal dwarfism has been detectable prenatally. The correct differentiation of the subtype of dwarfism is difficult at times. Dyssegmental dysplasia is probably an exception to these subtypes because the vertebral disorganization and occipital encephalocele at times permits prenatal diagnosis. CASE A 34-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 1, elective abortion 1 for dwarfism, was referred at 27 weeks' gestation for cystic hygroma. Further sonographic findings included: cystic hygroma with massive ascites, micromelia, occipital encephalocele, spinal disorganization and hydramnios. The fetus and both parents appeared to have a normal karyotype. Later the pregnancy was terminated with vaginal delivery. The fetus had micromelia, camptomelia, cystic hygroma, a flat face, short neck, short trunk, narrow thorax with protuberant abdomen, scoliosis and clubfeet. CONCLUSION Sonography is effective in prenatal diagnosis of dyssegmental dysplasia. With sonography, diagnosis of dyssegmental dysplasia becomes possible as early as the first trimester.
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Kim SJ, Park JG, Lee CC. Transcript titers of ecdysteroid receptor components vary between tissues and stages during Drosophila development. Mol Cells 1999; 9:61-6. [PMID: 10102573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In Drosophila, the ecdysteroids trigger the key regulatory cascades controlling the coordinated changes in the developmental pathway of molting and metamorphosis. Ecdysone action is mediated by a heterodimer consisting of the three ecdysone receptor (EcR) isoforms and the ultraspiracle proteins (USP). Heterodimers of these proteins bind to the ecdysone response element and ecdysone to modulate gene transcription. In this study, we developed a competitive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method to quantify the transcripts of functional ecdysone receptor components in individual tissues and for the whole body. The relatively small amount of variation in usp transcripts of the different tissues indicates that this gene does not perform a spatially restricted function in the late third instar wandering larvae while EcR isoforms were expressed in a more tissue-restricted pattern in the same stage. EcR-B1 was expressed at higher levels in larval tissues that are fated for histolysis, whereas EcR-A predominates in the imaginal discs. This result supports the hypothesis that a particular metamorphic response requires particular EcR isoforms. The transcript levels of the functional ecdysone receptor components fluctuate dramatically during development, suggesting that the regulations of the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels of these genes play some role in ecdysteroid response during Drosophila development.
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Romanenko A, Lee CC, Yamamoto S, Hori T, Wanibuchi H, Zaparin W, Vinnichenko W, Vozianov A, Fukushima S. Urinary bladder lesions after the Chernobyl accident: immunohistochemical assessment of p53, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cyclin D1 and p21WAF1/Cip1. Jpn J Cancer Res 1999; 90:144-53. [PMID: 10189884 PMCID: PMC5926045 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.1999.tb00727.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During the 11-year period subsequent to the Chernobyl accident, the incidence of urinary bladder cancer in Ukraine has increased from 26.2 to 36.1 per 100,000 population. Cesium-137 (137Cs) accounts for 80-90% of the incorporated radioactivity in this population, which has been exposed to long-term, low-dose ionizing radiation, and 80% of the more labile pool of cesium is excreted via the urine. The present study was performed to evaluate the histopathological features and the immunohistochemical status of p53, p21WAF1/Cip1, cyclin D1 and PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) in urinary bladder mucosa of 55 males (49-92 years old) with benign prostatic hyperplasia who underwent surgery in Kiev, Ukraine, in 1995 and 1996. Group I (28 patients) inhabiting radiocontaminated areas of the country, group II (17 patients) from Kiev city with less radiocontamination and a control group III (10 patients) living in so-called "clean" areas of Ukraine were compared. In groups I and II, an increase in multiple areas of moderate or severe dysplasia or carcinoma in situ was seen in 42 (93%) of 45 cases. In addition, two small transitional cell carcinomas were found in one patient in each of groups I and II. Nuclear accumulation of p53, PCNA, cyclin D1, and to a lesser extent p21WAF1/Cip1, was significantly increased in both groups I and II as compared with the control group III, indicating possible transformation events or enhancement of repair activities, that may precede the defect in the regulatory pathway itself, at least in the G1 phase of the cell cycle. Our results suggest that early malignant transformation is taking place in the bladder urothelium of people in the radiocontaminated areas of Ukraine and that this could possibly lead sometime in the future to an increased incidence of urinary bladder cancer.
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