51
|
Tseng LM, Hsu NC, Chen SC, Lu YS, Lin CH, Chang DY, Li H, Lin YC, Chang HK, Chao TC, Ouyang F, Hou MF. Distant metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer. Neoplasma 2013; 60:290-4. [PMID: 23373998 DOI: 10.4149/neo_2013_038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) relapses more frequently than hormone receptor-positive subtypes and is often associated with poor outcomes. This retrospective study reviewed the pattern of distant metastasis with regard to survival in patients with TNBC. A total of 205 TNBC patients were analyzed. TNBC patients with lung metastases had the longest median post-metastatic OS (with 95% confidence interval) of 16.6 (10.3-22.9) months, followed by the bone, 16.3 (11.7-20.8) months, the liver, 8.9 (3.5-14.4) months, the pleura, 7.5 (2.8-12.3) months, and the brain, 4.3 (0.6-8.0) months. Kaplan-Meier plots indicated that TNBC patients with metastatic spread to brain, liver, and pleural had poorer post-metastatic OS rate than patients with lung metastases (p = 0.001, 0.004, and 0.029, respectively). Moreover, brain and liver metastases correlated significantly with poorer post-metastatic OS as compared to bone metastasis (p = 0.004 and 0.011, respectively). Route of first metastasis correlated significantly with survival of TNBC patients with brain metastases being the poorest survival indicator, followed by metastases to liver, pleura, bone, and lung.
Collapse
|
52
|
Lin CJ, Wu TH, Lin CH, Hung SC, Chiu CF, Liu MJ, Teng MMH, Chang FC, Guo WY, Chang CY. Can iterative reconstruction improve imaging quality for lower radiation CT perfusion? Initial experience. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2013; 34:1516-21. [PMID: 23578678 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a3436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Initial results using IR for CT of the head showed satisfactory subjective and objective imaging quality with a 20-40% radiation dose reduction. The aim of our study was to compare the influence of IR and FBP algorithms on perfusion parameters at standard and lowered doses of CTP. MATERIALS AND METHODS Forty patients with unilateral carotid stenosis post-carotid stent placement referred for follow-up CTP were divided into 2 groups (tube currents were 100 mAs in group A and 80 mAs in group B). Datasets were reconstructed with IR and FBP algorithms; and SNRs of gray matter, white matter, and arterial and venous ROIs were compared. CBF, CBV, and MTT means and SNRs were evaluated by using linear regression, and qualitative imaging scores were compared across the 2 algorithms. RESULTS The mean effective radiation dose of group B (2.06 mSv) was approximately 20% lower than that of group A (2.56 mSv). SNRs for ROIs in the dynamic contrast-enhanced images were significantly higher than those for the FBP images. Correlations of the SNRs for CBF, CBV, and MTT across the 2 algorithms were moderate (R² = 0.46, 0.23, and 0.44, respectively). ROIs in gray matter rather than the IR algorithm predicted increasing SNRs in all CBF, CBV, and MTT maps. Two cases of significant restenosis were confirmed in both algorithms. CBV, CBF, and MTT imaging scores did not differ significantly across algorithms or groups. CONCLUSIONS Lower dose CTP (20% below normal dose) without IR can effectively identify oligemic tissue in poststenting follow-up. IR does not alter the absolute values or increase the SNRs of perfusion parameters. Other methods should be attempted to improve SNRs in settings with low tube currents.
Collapse
|
53
|
Aguilar M, Alberti G, Alpat B, Alvino A, Ambrosi G, Andeen K, Anderhub H, Arruda L, Azzarello P, Bachlechner A, Barao F, Baret B, Barrau A, Barrin L, Bartoloni A, Basara L, Basili A, Batalha L, Bates J, Battiston R, Bazo J, Becker R, Becker U, Behlmann M, Beischer B, Berdugo J, Berges P, Bertucci B, Bigongiari G, Biland A, Bindi V, Bizzaglia S, Boella G, de Boer W, Bollweg K, Bolmont J, Borgia B, Borsini S, Boschini MJ, Boudoul G, Bourquin M, Brun P, Buénerd M, Burger J, Burger W, Cadoux F, Cai XD, Capell M, Casadei D, Casaus J, Cascioli V, Castellini G, Cernuda I, Cervelli F, Chae MJ, Chang YH, Chen AI, Chen CR, Chen H, Cheng GM, Chen HS, Cheng L, Chernoplyiokov N, Chikanian A, Choumilov E, Choutko V, Chung CH, Clark C, Clavero R, Coignet G, Commichau V, Consolandi C, Contin A, Corti C, Costado Dios MT, Coste B, Crespo D, Cui Z, Dai M, Delgado C, Della Torre S, Demirkoz B, Dennett P, Derome L, Di Falco S, Diao XH, Diago A, Djambazov L, Díaz C, von Doetinchem P, Du WJ, Dubois JM, Duperay R, Duranti M, D'Urso D, Egorov A, Eline A, Eppling FJ, Eronen T, van Es J, Esser H, Falvard A, Fiandrini E, Fiasson A, Finch E, Fisher P, Flood K, Foglio R, Fohey M, Fopp S, Fouque N, Galaktionov Y, Gallilee M, Gallin-Martel L, Gallucci G, García B, García J, García-López R, García-Tabares L, Gargiulo C, Gast H, Gebauer I, Gentile S, Gervasi M, Gillard W, Giovacchini F, Girard L, Goglov P, Gong J, Goy-Henningsen C, Grandi D, Graziani M, Grechko A, Gross A, Guerri I, de la Guía C, Guo KH, Habiby M, Haino S, Hauler F, He ZH, Heil M, Heilig J, Hermel R, Hofer H, Huang ZC, Hungerford W, Incagli M, Ionica M, Jacholkowska A, Jang WY, Jinchi H, Jongmanns M, Journet L, Jungermann L, Karpinski W, Kim GN, Kim KS, Kirn T, Kossakowski R, Koulemzine A, Kounina O, Kounine A, Koutsenko V, Krafczyk MS, Laudi E, Laurenti G, Lauritzen C, Lebedev A, Lee MW, Lee SC, Leluc C, León Vargas H, Lepareur V, Li JQ, Li Q, Li TX, Li W, Li ZH, Lipari P, Lin CH, Liu D, Liu H, Lomtadze T, Lu YS, Lucidi S, Lübelsmeyer K, Luo JZ, Lustermann W, Lv S, Madsen J, Majka R, Malinin A, Mañá C, Marín J, Martin T, Martínez G, Masciocchi F, Masi N, Maurin D, McInturff A, McIntyre P, Menchaca-Rocha A, Meng Q, Menichelli M, Mereu I, Millinger M, Mo DC, Molina M, Mott P, Mujunen A, Natale S, Nemeth P, Ni JQ, Nikonov N, Nozzoli F, Nunes P, Obermeier A, Oh S, Oliva A, Palmonari F, Palomares C, Paniccia M, Papi A, Park WH, Pauluzzi M, Pauss F, Pauw A, Pedreschi E, Pensotti S, Pereira R, Perrin E, Pessina G, Pierschel G, Pilo F, Piluso A, Pizzolotto C, Plyaskin V, Pochon J, Pohl M, Poireau V, Porter S, Pouxe J, Putze A, Quadrani L, Qi XN, Rancoita PG, Rapin D, Ren ZL, Ricol JS, Riihonen E, Rodríguez I, Roeser U, Rosier-Lees S, Rossi L, Rozhkov A, Rozza D, Sabellek A, Sagdeev R, Sandweiss J, Santos B, Saouter P, Sarchioni M, Schael S, Schinzel D, Schmanau M, Schwering G, Schulz von Dratzig A, Scolieri G, Seo ES, Shan BS, Shi JY, Shi YM, Siedenburg T, Siedling R, Son D, Spada F, Spinella F, Steuer M, Stiff K, Sun W, Sun WH, Sun XH, Tacconi M, Tang CP, Tang XW, Tang ZC, Tao L, Tassan-Viol J, Ting SCC, Ting SM, Titus C, Tomassetti N, Toral F, Torsti J, Tsai JR, Tutt JC, Ulbricht J, Urban T, Vagelli V, Valente E, Vannini C, Valtonen E, Vargas Trevino M, Vaurynovich S, Vecchi M, Vergain M, Verlaat B, Vescovi C, Vialle JP, Viertel G, Volpini G, Wang D, Wang NH, Wang QL, Wang RS, Wang X, Wang ZX, Wallraff W, Weng ZL, Willenbrock M, Wlochal M, Wu H, Wu KY, Wu ZS, Xiao WJ, Xie S, Xiong RQ, Xin GM, Xu NS, Xu W, Yan Q, Yang J, Yang M, Ye QH, Yi H, Yu YJ, Yu ZQ, Zeissler S, Zhang JG, Zhang Z, Zhang MM, Zheng ZM, Zhuang HL, Zhukov V, Zichichi A, Zuccon P, Zurbach C. First result from the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station: precision measurement of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays of 0.5-350 GeV. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2013; 110:141102. [PMID: 25166975 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.110.141102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
A precision measurement by the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer on the International Space Station of the positron fraction in primary cosmic rays in the energy range from 0.5 to 350 GeV based on 6.8 × 10(6) positron and electron events is presented. The very accurate data show that the positron fraction is steadily increasing from 10 to ∼ 250 GeV, but, from 20 to 250 GeV, the slope decreases by an order of magnitude. The positron fraction spectrum shows no fine structure, and the positron to electron ratio shows no observable anisotropy. Together, these features show the existence of new physical phenomena.
Collapse
|
54
|
Liu CS, Kuo MCT, Su CY, Chen YC, Cheng WC, Chou CY, Liang KF, Han YL, Lin CH. A bacteria injection scheme for in situ bioaugmentation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART A, TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2013; 48:1079-1085. [PMID: 23573928 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2013.774601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
This article presents an innovative design for inoculating the desired organisms to stratified geological layers at desired rates during in-situ bioaugmentation. The new delivery system consists of intermittent porous tubes connected in series with impermeable polyethylene tubes that run horizontally in each stratified layer of a contaminated aquifer. A bioaugmentation test using the new delivery system was conducted to inject an enriched culture of Escherichia coli (E. coli). Results of the test indicated that the distribution of E. coli through each porous tube was fairly uniform. A mathematical model previously developed to calculate the distribution of water flow through each porous tube was modified to calculate the distribution of E. coli. Geological layers often have different hydraulic conductivities. By controlling the permeability and the length of porous tubes placed in stratified layers, the new design provides a means to selectively deliver aqueous bacteria to various layers at desired rates according to aquifer heterogeneity.
Collapse
|
55
|
Liao YF, Chang CC, Wang DP, Tseng BH, Liao YD, Lin CH. A novel approach for normalizing the photoreflectance spectrum by using polymer-dispersed liquid crystal. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2012; 83:103904. [PMID: 23126779 DOI: 10.1063/1.4757399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
This study developed a novel type of normalization procedure for modulation reflectance spectroscopy experiments to obtain the relative change in the reflectance spectrum, ΔR/R. This technique uses a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal to ensure that the dc component of the signal from the detector remained constant by varying the intensity of the light striking the sample. This method is particularly useful for photoreflectance measurement, which may encounter background problems because of scattered pump light and/or photoluminescence. It does not require a change in the gain of the detector or the use of a variable neutral density filter mounted on a servo-motor.
Collapse
|
56
|
Lin TH, Lin CH, Shih JC, Su YN, Wu ET, Lee CN. Effect of arterioarterial anastomosis on early-onset umbilical artery flow abnormality in a monochorionic-diamniotic twin. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2012; 40:371-372. [PMID: 22302609 DOI: 10.1002/uog.11111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
|
57
|
Liu TY, Chen Y, Wang HH, Huang YL, Chao YC, Tsai KT, Cheng WC, Chuang CY, Tsai YH, Huang CY, Wang DW, Lin CH, Wang JK, Wang YL. Differentiation of bacteria cell wall using Raman scattering enhanced by nanoparticle array. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2012; 12:5004-8. [PMID: 22905567 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2012.4941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
We have fabricated surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates based on arrays of silver nanoparticles grown on porous anodic alumina templates. Using this nanotechnology platform, label-free and high-speed detection of bacteria are achieved. SERS spectra of various bacteria including Staphylococcus Aureus (Gram-positive bacterium), Klebsiella Pneumoniae (Gram-negative bacterium), and Mycobacterium Smegmatis (Mycobacterium) were recorded. The highly reproducible SERS-based technological platform is capable of differentiating different kinds of bacteria by PCA, LDA, clustering analysis, and SVM methods, which provides promising opportunity for biosensing of clinical microbes.
Collapse
|
58
|
Lin CW, Tseng SW, Yang SF, Ko CP, Lin CH, Wei LH, Chien MH, Hsieh YS. Role of lipocalin 2 and its complex with matrix metalloproteinase-9 in oral cancer. Oral Dis 2012; 18:734-40. [PMID: 22533572 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601-0825.2012.01938.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Recent evidence demonstrated that lipocalin (LCN)2 is induced in many types of human cancer, while the detection of its complex with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 is correlated with the cancer disease status. We attempted to evaluate plasma expressions of LCN2, MMP-9, and their complex (LCN2/MMP-9) during the diagnostic work-up of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and investigated their correlations with disease progression. METHODS In total, 195 patients with OSCC and 81 healthy controls were recruited. Expression levels of LCN2, MMP-9, and LCN2/MMP-9 were determined with immunoenzymatic assays. RESULTS Patients with OSCC exhibited significantly higher levels of LCN2, MMP-9, and LCN2/MMP-9 compared with healthy controls (LCN2: P < 0.001; MMP-9: P < 0.001; LCN2/MMP-9: P < 0.01). Plasma levels of LCN2, MMP-9, and LCN2/MMP-9 in patients with OSCC were significantly correlated with each other and were associated with more-advanced clinical stages (P < 0.05) and/or a larger tumor size (P < 0.05), but were not associated with positive lymph-node metastasis or distal metastasis. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that plasma levels of LCN2 and the LCN2/MMP-9 complex may be useful in non-invasively monitoring OSCC progression, while supporting their potential role as biomarkers of oral cancer disease status.
Collapse
|
59
|
Lin CH, Kuo MCT, Su CY, Liang KF, Han YL. A nutrient injection scheme for in situ bio-remediation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART A, TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2012; 47:280-288. [PMID: 22242881 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2012.640907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Geological layers often have different hydraulic conductivities. This paper presents an innovative design for delivering aqueous substrates and nutrients to various stratified layers at desired rates during in-situ bio-stimulation. The new delivery system consists of intermittent porous tubes connected in series with impermeable polyethylene tubes that run horizontally in each stratified layer of a contaminated aquifer. Results of the tracer test indicated that the distribution of tritium through each porous tube was fairly uniform. A mathematical model was also developed to calculate the distribution of water flow through each porous tube. By controlling the permeability and the length of porous tubes placed in stratified layers, the new design provides a means to selectively deliver nutrients to various layers at desired rates according to aquifer heterogeneity.
Collapse
|
60
|
Lin CH, Lee YY, Liu CC, Chen HF, Ko MC, Li CY. Urbanization and prevalence of depression in diabetes. Public Health 2011; 126:104-11. [PMID: 22178148 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2011.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2010] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To depict recent secular trend (2001-2005) in prevalence of depression among diabetic population in Taiwan, and to explore the influences of urbanization on the prevalence of depression. STUDY DESIGN A descriptive correlation study design relating urbanization and prevalence of depression. METHODS Annual prevalence of depression was calculated as the ratio of number of individuals with depression (ICD-9-CM: 296, 309, or 311) to the size of diabetic population (ICD-9-CM: 250), which were ascertained from ambulatory care claim data of Taiwan's National Health Insurance between 2001 and 2005. Multivariate Poisson regression analysis was used to assess the secular trend in the prevalence of comorbid depression, and to appraise the influence of urbanization on prevalence of depression in diabetic patients. RESULTS The prevalence of depression among diabetic population increased annually from 22.6/10(3) in 2001 to 27.0/10(3) in 2005 with a significantly and linearly rising trend (β = 0.0461, p < 0.0001). Diabetic population living in urban areas showed the largest increase in prevalence (6.3/10(3)), followed by those from rural areas (5.6/10(3)). Compared to the diabetic patients residing in rural areas, those living in urban areas (RR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.25-1.31) and those from satellite towns (RR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.19-1.25) both had significantly increased adjusted RR. CONCLUSIONS There is a significant increasing trend in prevalence of depression among diabetic population in recent years in Taiwan. Diabetic patients from urban areas not only had the greatest prevalence of depression but also showed the largest increase in prevalence during the study period, which highlights a need for managing depression in urban diabetes.
Collapse
|
61
|
Chen IC, Lin CH, Huang CS, Lien HC, Hsu C, Kuo WH, Lu YS, Cheng AL. Lack of efficacy to systemic chemotherapy for treatment of metaplastic carcinoma of the breast in the modern era. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2011; 130:345-51. [PMID: 21792625 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-011-1686-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2011] [Accepted: 07/14/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast (MCB) is a rare subtype of breast cancer. Anecdotal reports are available regarding its response to systemic chemotherapy. We reviewed the records of patients diagnosed with MCB at National Taiwan University Hospital between 1988 and 2009. A total of 46 MCB cases were identified from 8,695 breast tumor patients who underwent biopsy or resection. About 11 of 25 patients with initial bulky disease (T3-4) received neoadjuvant chemotherapy before surgery, and 2 (18.2%) exhibited a partial response. About 12 of 18 patients who developed distant metastasis received palliative systemic chemotherapy. Of them, only 1 (8.3%), 1 (10%), and none (0%) responded to first-, second-, or third- and beyond line chemotherapy, respectively. None of the patients who received anthracyline- (n = 13), vinorelbine- (n = 7), or cyclophosphamide-based (n = 18) chemotherapy responded, whereas 3 (17.6%) of 17 patients who received taxane-based chemotherapy exhibited a partial response. Tumor response to systemic chemotherapy remains generally poor for MCB patients. Taxanes may have modest activity, but need to be validated in further studies.
Collapse
|
62
|
Liu CZ, Lin CH, Yeh MS, Chao YM, Shen P. Surface Modification and Planar Defects of Calcium Carbonates by Magnetic Water Treatment. NANOSCALE RESEARCH LETTERS 2010; 5:1982-1991. [PMID: 21170405 PMCID: PMC2991221 DOI: 10.1007/s11671-010-9736-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/05/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Powdery calcium carbonates, predominantly calcite and aragonite, with planar defects and cation-anion mixed surfaces as deposited on low-carbon steel by magnetic water treatment (MWT) were characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and vibration spectroscopy. Calcite were found to form faceted nanoparticles having 3x (01̄14) commensurate superstructure and with well-developed {112̄0} and {101̄4} surfaces to exhibit preferred orientations. Aragonite occurred as laths having 3x (01̄1) commensurate superstructure and with well-developed (01̄1) surface extending along [100] direction up to micrometers in length. The (hkil)-specific coalescence of calcite and rapid lath growth of aragonite under the combined effects of Lorentz force and a precondensation event account for a beneficial larger particulate/colony size for the removal of the carbonate scale from the steel substrate. The coexisting magnetite particles have well-developed {011} surfaces regardless of MWT.
Collapse
|
63
|
Liu CC, Ou TT, Wu CC, Li RN, Lin YC, Lin CH, Tsai WC, Liu HW, Yen JH. Global DNA methylation, DNMT1, and MBD2 in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2010; 20:131-6. [DOI: 10.1177/0961203310381517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the associations of DNA methylation levels and mRNA expressions of DNA cytosine-5-methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) and methyl CpG-binding domain 2 (MBD2) with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 108 patients with SLE and 97 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. DNA and total RNA were extracted from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of the SLE patients and the controls. The global methylation levels of DNA were measured in 63 patients with SLE and 68 healthy controls by the ELISA method. DNMT1 and MBD2 mRNA were also detected in 108 SLE patients and 97 controls using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction method. The global methylation level of DNA was significantly decreased in the SLE patients in comparison with that in the controls ( p < 0.001, 95% CI = 0.1573–0.5052). The patients with SLE have higher expressions of DNMT1 and MBD2 mRNA than the controls ( p < 0.001, 95% CI = −0.0049 – −0.0019 and p = 0.001, 95% CI = −0.0119 – −0.0029, respectively). We also found that there were no significant differences in the methylation level and the expression of DNMT1 and MBD2 mRNA between the active and the inactive SLE patients. A positive correlation was also found between DNMT1 and MBD2 mRNA expressions in the SLE patients ( p < 0.001). This study demonstrated that the patients with SLE had a significantly lower level of DNA methylation than the controls. The expression of both DNMT1 and MBD2 mRNA was significantly increased in the SLE patients compared with the controls. This study also showed a positive correlation between DNMT1 and MBD2 mRNA levels in the patients with SLE.
Collapse
|
64
|
Huang CH, Tsou YK, Lin CH, Tang JH. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) for intradiverticular papilla: endoclip-assisted biliary cannulation. Endoscopy 2010; 42 Suppl 2:E223-4. [PMID: 20931451 DOI: 10.1055/s-0029-1215008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
|
65
|
Huang HW, Lee KY, Huang JK, Lin CH, Lin CF, Yu CC, Kuo HC. Light extraction efficiency enhancement of GaN-based light emitting diodes on n-GaN layer using a SiO2 photonic quasi-crystal overgrowth. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2010; 10:6363-6368. [PMID: 21137731 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2010.2639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, GaN-based LEDs with a SiO2 photonic quasi-crystal (PQC) pattern on an n-GaN layer by nano-imprint lithography (NIL) are fabricated and investigated. At a driving current of 20 mA on Transistor Outline (TO)-can package, the better light output power of LED III (d = 1.2 microm) was enhanced by a factor of 1.20. After 1000 h life test (55 degrees C/50 mA) condition, Normalized output power of LED with a SiO2 PQC pattern (LED III (d = 1.2 microm)) on an n-GaN layer only decreased by 5%. This results offer promising potential to enhance the light output power of commercial light-emitting devices using the technique of nano-imprint lithography.
Collapse
|
66
|
Lee YC, Tseng SC, Chen HL, Yu CC, Cheng WL, Du CH, Lin CH. Using autocloning effects to develop broad-bandwidth, omnidirectional antireflection structures for silicon solar cells. OPTICS EXPRESS 2010; 18 Suppl 3:A421-A431. [PMID: 21165072 DOI: 10.1364/oe.18.00a421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we used the autocloning effect on pyramid structures to develop broad-bandwidth, omnidirectional antireflection structures for silicon solar cells. The angular dependence of reflectance on several pyramid structures was systematically investigated. The deposition of three-layer autocloned films reduced the refractive index gap between air and silicon, resulting in an increase in the amount of transmitted light and a decrease in the total light escaping. The average reflectance decreased dramatically to ca. 2-3% at incident angles from 0 to 60° for both sub-wavelength- and micrometer-scale pyramid structures. The measured reflectance of the autocloned structure was less than 4% in the wavelength range from 400 to 1000 nm for incident angles from 0 to 60°. Therefore, the autocloning technique, combined with optical thin films and optical gradient structures, is a practical and compatible method for the fabrication of broad-bandwidth, omnidirectional antireflection structures on silicon solar cells.
Collapse
|
67
|
Ko Y, Liu CW, Chen SS, Chen CY, Yao KS, Maruthasalam S, Lin CH. First Report of Fruit Rot of Loquat Caused by an Alternaria sp. in Taiwan. PLANT DISEASE 2010; 94:481. [PMID: 30754488 DOI: 10.1094/pdis-94-4-0481b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
During March 2007, a fruit rot disease was observed in several loquat (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunberg) Lindley) fields located in Taichung, Nantou, and Miaoli counties. Loquat is a valuable fruit crop grown predominantly in central Taiwan, and hence, even a minor yield loss by this new disease is economically significant. Symptoms on fruits initially appeared as small lesions (<1 mm) that later developed into light-to-dark brown, circular, larger (7 mm), sunken lesions, indicating invasion of a pathogen into the fruit. Pieces of rotted fruit tissue (1 × 1 × 1 mm) were immersed for 1 min in 3% commercial bleach, followed by 70% ethanol, cultured on potato dextrose agar (PDA), and incubated under constant fluorescent light (185 ± 35 μE·m-2·s-1) at 24°C for 2 days. Three single conidial isolates (AS1 to AS3) were selected and used in morphological and pathogenicity studies. All three isolates were identified as an Alternaria sp. (1-3) and formed abundant, dark brown mycelium when cultured on PDA with light at 24°C. Conidiophores were 60 to 89 × 3 to 5 μm, densely fasciculate, cylindrical, simple or branched, and had distinct conidial scars. Conidia were 12 to 74 × 6 to 14 μm, golden brown, straight or curved, obclavate with beaks measuring half the length of the conidium, and observed in chains of 10 or more spores with four to seven transverse septa and several longitudinal septa. Pathogenicity tests were conducted twice by inoculating eight surface-sterilized wounded or unwounded fruits with each of the three isolates in each experiment. Two cuts (1 × 1 × 1 mm) were made on each fruit 3 cm apart with a sterile scalpel, and a 300-μl spore suspension (2 × 105 conidia per ml) was placed on each wound. Similarly, a 300-μl spore suspension was placed on unwounded fruits and air dried for 5 min. Control fruits were similarly treated with sterile water. Inoculated fruits were enclosed in a plastic bag and kept at 24 ± 1°C. Symptoms of soft rot were observed on 60% (unwounded) and 100% (wounded) of inoculated fruits 5 days after inoculation, while control fruits did not develop disease symptoms. Reisolation from the symptomatic fruits consistently yielded an Alternaria sp. This fungus previously has been reported as the causal agent of fruit rot or black spot of papaya, mango, kiwifruit, pear, and carambola from Australia, India, Malaysia, South Africa, and the United States (1-3). To our knowledge, this is the first report of fruit rot of loquat caused by an Alternaria sp. in Taiwan. To manage this disease, growers may resort to fungicidal sprays followed by bagging of fruits to reduce pre- and postharvest losses. References: (1) A. L. Jones and H. S. Aldwinckle. Compendium of Apple and Pear Diseases. The American Phytopathological Society. St. Paul, MN, 1990. (2) R. C. Ploetz. Diseases of Tropical Fruit Crops. CABI Publishing. Wallingford, Oxfordshire, UK, 2003. (3) R. C. Ploetz et al. Compendium of Tropical Fruit Diseases. The American Phytopathological Society. St. Paul, MN, 1994.
Collapse
|
68
|
Chan HC, Ke LY, Chang LL, Liu CC, Hung YH, Lin CH, Li RN, Tsai WC, Liu HW, Yen JH. Suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 gene expression and polymorphisms in systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus 2010; 19:696-702. [PMID: 20064913 DOI: 10.1177/0961203309357437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
With the aim of investigating the role of suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus, 107 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, 101 healthy controls, and 151 patients with ankylosing spondylitis were enrolled in this study. SOCS1 mRNA level was measured by the method of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. SOCS1 polymorphisms were detected by the polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphisms method. Systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity was evaluated with the SLEDAI. This study showed that the SOCS1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in the patients with systemic lupus erythematosus than in the healthy controls (p = 0.0014). Patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus had a higher expression of SOCS1 mRNA than the patients with inactive systemic lupus erythematosus (p = 0.035). There was no significant difference in the frequencies of the SOCS1-1478CA/del polymorphisms among the patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, healthy controls, and patients with ankylosing spondylitis. The genotype frequency of the SOCS1-1478 polymorphisms in the dominant model (CA/del+del/del versus CA/CA) was significantly decreased in the patients with thrombocytopenia compared with those without thrombocytopenia (p(c) = 0.035). Moreover, the allele frequency of SOCS1-1478del was also significantly lower in the patients with thrombocytopenia than in those without thrombocytopenia (p( c) = 0.02). In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the expression of SOCS1 mRNA was significantly increased in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Moreover, SOCS1 mRNA levels in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus were significantly higher than those in the inactive patients. We also found that the systemic lupus erythematosus patients with thrombocytopenia have a lower frequency of SOCS1-1478del compared with patients without thrombocytopenia.
Collapse
|
69
|
Liu R, Shieh RS, Yeh RYL, Lin CH. The general utilization of scrapped PC board. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2009; 29:2842-2845. [PMID: 19683422 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2009.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2008] [Revised: 06/18/2009] [Accepted: 07/13/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The traditional burning process is used to recover copper from scrapped PC board (printed circuit board) but it causes serious environmental problems. In this research a new process was developed which not only prevents pollution problems, but also maximizes the utility of all the materials on the waste board. First, the scrapped PC board was crushed and grounded, then placed in the NH3/NH5CO3 solution with aeration in order to dissolve copper. After distilling the copper NH3/NH5CO3 solution and then heating the distilled residue of copper carbonate, pure copper oxide was obtained with particle size of about 0.2 microm and the shape elliptical. The remaining solid residue after copper removal was then leached with 6N hydrochloric acid to remove tin and lead. The last residue was used as a filler in PVC plastics. The PVC plastics with PC board powder as filling material was found to have the same tensile strength as unfilled plastics, but had higher elastic modulus, higher abrasion resistance, and was cheaper.
Collapse
|
70
|
Hsu HT, Chen MJ, Lin CH, Chou WS, Chen JH. Chloroform in indoor swimming-pool air: monitoring and modeling coupled with the effects of environmental conditions and occupant activities. WATER RESEARCH 2009; 43:3693-3704. [PMID: 19577784 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2009.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2008] [Accepted: 05/22/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to chloroform in indoor swimming pools has been recognized as a potential health concern. Although environmental monitoring is a useful technique to investigate chloroform concentrations in indoor swimming-pool air, in practice, the interpretations of measured data would inevitably run into difficulties due to the complex interactions among the numerous variables, including environmental conditions and occupant activities. Considering of the relevant variables of environmental conditions and occupant activities, a mathematical model was first proposed to predict the chloroform concentration in indoor swimming-pool air. The developed model provides a straightforward, conceptually simple way to predict the indoor air chloroform concentration by calculating the mass flux, J, and the Péclet number, Pe, and by using a heuristic value of the indoor airflow recycle ratio, R. The good agreement between model simulation and measured data demonstrates the feasibility of using the presented model for indoor air quality management, operational guidelines and health-related risk assessment.
Collapse
|
71
|
Yen JH, Tsai WC, Lin CH, Ou TT, Hu CJ, Liu HW. Cytochrome p450 1A1 gene polymorphisms in patients with psoriatic arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 2009; 33:19-23. [PMID: 15124938 DOI: 10.1080/03009740410005322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the associations of cytochrome p450 1A1 (CYP1A1) gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to psoriatic arthritis in Taiwan. METHODS CYP1A1 gene polymorphisms were determined in 52 patients with psoriatic arthritis and in 90 healthy controls by polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism. RESULTS The genotype frequency of CYP1A1 4889A/G was significantly increased in patients with psoriatic arthritis in comparison with healthy controls. The phenotype frequency of CYP1A1 4889G was also significantly increased in patients with psoriatic arthritis. The genotype frequency of CYP1A1 4887C/A was significantly higher in patients with psoriatic arthritis than in controls. The allele and phenotype frequencies of 4887A were also significantly increased in patients with psoriatic arthritis. We also found that the association of CYP1A1 4887A with psoriatic arthritis was independent of 4889G but a synergistic effect was present between CYP1A1 4887A and 4889G. The CYP1A1 4889A/G and 4887C/A polymorphisms were not associated with the manifestations and severity of psoriatic arthritis. CONCLUSION CYP1A1 4887A and 4889G may be precipitating factors for susceptibility to psoriatic arthritis in Taiwan. An additive effect was found between CYP1A1 4887A and 4889G.
Collapse
|
72
|
Ko Y, Liu CW, Chen CY, Maruthasalam S, Lin CH. First Report of Stem-End Rot of Mango Caused by Phomopsis mangiferae in Taiwan. PLANT DISEASE 2009; 93:764. [PMID: 30764368 DOI: 10.1094/pdis-93-7-0764a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is grown on approximately 20,000 ha in Taiwan. It is an economically important crop and the income of many fruit farmers comes primarily from mango production. During 2006 and 2007, a stem-end rot disease was observed 1 week after harvest on 28 to 36% of stored mangoes picked from six orchards in the Pingtung, Tainan, and Kaoshiung regions. Two popular mango cultivars, Keitt and Irwin, showed greater susceptibility to this disease, while 'Haden' was found to be moderately susceptible. In storage, symptoms initially appeared as light-to-dark brown lesions surrounding peduncles. Rot symptoms advanced slowly but eventually penetrated the mesocarp, which consequently reduced the commercial value of fruits. The fungus formed abundant pycnidia (0.1 to 0.6 mm in diameter) on infected fruits in advanced stages of symptom development. Pieces of symptomatic fruits plated on acidified potato dextrose agar (PDA) and incubated at 25 ± 1°C consistently yielded the same fungus. A single conidial isolate was cultured. Pycnidia developed on PDA after continuous exposure to light for 9 to 14 days. On the basis of morphological characteristics, the fungus was identified as Phomopsis mangiferae L. (2,3). Pycnidia released two types of conidia: α-conidia (5 to 10 × 2.3 to 4.0 μm) were hyaline and oval to fusoid; and β-conidia (15.0 to 37.5 × 1.3 to 2.5 μm) were hyaline and filiform with characteristic curves. Conidiophores were hyaline, filiform, simple or branched, septate, and 15 to 75 μm long. Cultures incubated under continuous fluorescent light (185 ± 35 μE·m-2·s-1) at 25°C for 3 days were used as inoculum for pathogenicity tests. Five fruits from 'Keitt' were wounded with a sterilized scalpel and each wound (2 × 2 × 2 mm) was inoculated with either a 5-mm mycelium agar plug or a 0.5-ml spore suspension (105 conidia per ml) of the fungus. Five wounded fruits inoculated with 5-mm PDA plugs or sterile water alone served as controls. Inoculated areas were covered with moist, sterile cotton. Fruits were enclosed in plastic bags and incubated at 24°C for 3 days. The test was performed three times. The same symptoms were observed on all inoculated fruits, whereas no decay was observed on control fruits. Reisolations from the inoculated fruits consistently yielded P. mangiferae, thus fulfilling Koch's postulates. This disease has previously been reported in Australia, Brazil, China, Cuba, India, Malaysia, and the United States (1). To our knowledge, this is the first report of P. mangiferae causing stem-end rot disease on mangoes in Taiwan. Our report necessitates taking preventive strategies in the field, prior to or after harvest, to contain postharvest losses in mangoes. References: (1) G. I. Johnson. Page 39 in: Compendium of Tropical Fruit Diseases. R. C. Ploetz et al., eds. The American Phytopathological Society. St. Paul, MN, 1994. (2) R. C. Ploetz, ed. Page 354 in: Diseases of Tropical Fruit Crops. CABI Publishing. Wallingford, UK, 2003. (3) E. Punithalingam. No. 1168 in: Descriptions of Pathogenic Fungi and Bacteria. CMI, Kew, Surrey, UK, 1993.
Collapse
|
73
|
Chen YH, Chang WK, Chang CL, Lin CH. Single aperiodically poled lithium niobate for simultaneous laser Q switching and second-harmonic generation in a 1342 nm Nd:YVO4 laser. OPTICS LETTERS 2009; 34:1711-1713. [PMID: 19488157 DOI: 10.1364/ol.34.001711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
We report the design and experimental demonstration of an electro-optically Q-switched intracavity second-harmonic generator (ISHG) based on a single aperiodically poled lithium niobate (APLN) in a 1,342 nm Nd:YVO(4) laser. This intracavity APLN, designed using the aperiodic optical superlattice technique, can perform simultaneously as a laser Q switch and a second-harmonic generator. At approximately 200 VQ-switching voltage and a 5 kHz switching rate, we measured a pulse energy of approximately 5.7 microJ and a peak power of approximately 700 W at 671 nm from the constructed ISHG with a 5.2 W diode power based on 51% fundamental energy depletion.
Collapse
|
74
|
Lin CH, Yang YJ, Encinas E, Chen WY, Tsai JJ, Liu CW. Single crystalline film on glass for thin film solar cells. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2009; 9:3622-3626. [PMID: 19504892 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2009.ns40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
A simple Ge-on-glass metal-oxide-semiconductor solar cell has been demonstrated by wafer bonding and smart-cut. Since single crystalline Ge is directly bonded on glass, the crystalline substrate is not necessary. The metal-oxide-semiconductor structure can be easily fabricated without n and p dopant diffusion or implantation. The reason for low efficiency is discussed, and then the optimized structures are designed by simulation. An outstanding enhancement on efficiency can be achieved with the Si/Ge/Si structure. The best performance can be achieved by optimization of the position of the Ge layer, the thickness of the Ge layer, and the number of the Ge layers. The efficiency of the thin film Si/Ge/Si solar cell with single layer of 30-nm-thick Ge outside the depletion region reaches 15.9%, as compared to the control Si sample of 11.8%. Based on the simulation and technologies, high efficiency thin film solar cells can be demonstrated in the future.
Collapse
|
75
|
Chen KC, Li CC, Lin CH, Guo GH. Clustering and phases of compartmentalized granular gases. PHYSICAL REVIEW. E, STATISTICAL, NONLINEAR, AND SOFT MATTER PHYSICS 2009; 79:021307. [PMID: 19391739 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.79.021307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2008] [Revised: 01/26/2009] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This paper experimentally investigates the clustering conditions for compartmentalized monodisperse granular gases, determining the critical particle number and condensation granular temperature at the gas-clustering transition. When one heavier intruding particle is added to a monodisperse gas, it is found that the condensation temperature decreases with the ratio of the mass of the intruding particle to that of the background particle. This phenomenon can be mathematically characterized by a proposed linear relation, which is reminiscent of a relation between the freezing point depression for a solvent and the concentration of an added solute. Finally we perform various tests by changing the numbers of two types of particles in bidisperse granular mixtures to construct the phase diagrams, which present the range of the five different states, namely, homogeneous gas, unstable-gas, one-clustering, two-clustering, and granular oscillation states.
Collapse
|