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Chen CL, Szczesniak MM, Cook IJ. Evidence for oesophageal visceral hypersensitivity and aberrant symptom referral in patients with globus. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2009; 21:1142-e96. [PMID: 19422528 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2009.01316.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We tested the hypotheses that globus patients demonstrate oesophageal visceral hypersensitivity and aberrant viscerosomatic referral of oesophageal stimuli. Oesophageal visceral perception was assessed by oesophageal balloon distension and electrical stimulation in nine patients with globus and compared with 11 healthy controls. Oesophageal perception and pain thresholds were determined. Subjects recorded the area of thoracic viscerosomatic referral on a body map in response to each stimulus. All the patients reported their first sensation at balloon volumes between 2 and 6 mL whereas controls reported their first sensation at volumes between 3 and 14 mL (P = 0.03). All the patients reported pain at balloon volumes between 5 and 12 mL whereas controls experienced pain at volumes between 8 and 20 mL (P = 0.001). In response to electrical stimulation to the oesophagus patients and controls demonstrated comparable sensory thresholds. In response to oesophageal balloon distension seven of nine patients, but no controls, referred the sensation to the region at or above the suprasternal notch (P = 0.001). Similarly, significant differences in viscerosomatic referral pattern were observed in response to oesophageal electrical stimulation (P = 0.03). Patients with globus demonstrate oesophageal visceral hypersensitivity to mechanical distension. The differential responses to stretch and electrical stimuli may indicate that the hypersensitivity is a peripheral, rather than central, phenomenon. The aberrant referral of oesophageal sensations in response to both mechanical and electrical stimulation supports the hypothesis that referral of symptoms to the neck might be a central phenomenon.
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Chuang MS, Huang HH, Dixon KM, Chen KS, Mao CL, Chen CL. Detection of urine and blood clenbuterol following short-term oral administration in the horse. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2009; 32:171-6. [PMID: 19821644 DOI: 10.3109/08923970903179688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The pharmacokinetics of clenbuterol in equine urine and blood was investigated. MATERIAL AND METHODS Urine and blood samples were collected following 3-day multiple oral administrations. The samples were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and further confirmed by solid phase extraction and capillary electrophoresis. RESULTS Urinary clenbuterol was detectable until day 14 after the last dose. The urinary excretion of clenbuterol was characterized by a biphasic pattern. The half-lives of the bi-exponential elimination (t(1/2alpha) and t(1/2beta)) for urinary clenbuterol were about 12.1 and 48 hours. After a single oral administration (4 microg/kg) of clenbuterol, the half-life of serum clenbuterol was approximately 11.4 hours.
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Chen CL, Furusho H, Mori H. Silver nanowires with a monoclinic structure fabricated by a thermal evaporation method. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2009; 20:405605. [PMID: 19738296 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/20/40/405605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Silver nanowires with a monoclinic structure (mono-Ag NWs) were fabricated by a thermal evaporation method for the first time. The crystal lattice parameters of the mono-Ag NWs were calculated using the UnitCell program. They are as follows: a = 0.303 nm, b = 1.140 nm, c = 0.292 nm, and beta = 118.5 degrees. In situ annealing experiments revealed that the as-prepared mono-Ag NWs transited to fcc-Ag NWs during annealing at approximately 1173 K for 60 s.
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Chen YL, Chen CL, Lin HY, Chen CW, Chen YF, Hung Y, Mou CY. Enhancement of random lasing based on the composite consisting of nanospheres embedded in nanorods template. OPTICS EXPRESS 2009; 17:12706-12713. [PMID: 19654676 DOI: 10.1364/oe.17.012706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
A simple and general approach has been developed for the enhancement of random lasing based on the composite consisting of nanospheres and nanorods array. Due to the inherent nature of high refractive index, the selected nanorods act efficiently as scattering feedback centers, which can promote the formation of closed loop paths of the emission arising from nanospheres. To illustrate our working principle, the composite consisting of Tb(OH)(3)/SiO(2) nanospheres and ZnO nanorods was chosen as an example. Quite interestingly, it is found that the random lasing behavior can be easily achieved for the composite system, while it is absent in pure Tb(OH)(3)/SiO(2) nanospheres. The strategy demonstrated here should be very useful for the future development of coherent light emission sources and many other optoelectronic devices.
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Chen CL, Mori H. In situ TEM observation of the growth and decomposition of monoclinic W(18)O(49) nanowires. NANOTECHNOLOGY 2009; 20:285604. [PMID: 19550017 DOI: 10.1088/0957-4484/20/28/285604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The growth of monoclinic W(18)O(49) nanowires by heat treatment of a tungsten filament at approximately 873 K and the decomposition of these nanowires under 200 keV electron irradiation at approximately 1023 K have been investigated using in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In situ TEM observation of the growth confirmed the vapor-solid growth mechanism of the monoclinic W(18)O(49) nanowires. In situ irradiation experiments revealed the formation of metallic bcc tungsten from monoclinic W(18)O(49) nanowires under 200 keV electron irradiation.
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Huang CM, Tsai CH, Tsai JJP, Kung PT, Chen CL, Tsai FJ. The relationship between insulin‐like growth factor‐II geneApaI polymorphism and rheumatoid arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 2009; 33:126-7. [PMID: 15163116 DOI: 10.1080/03009740410006079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Wang Y, Huang WC, Wang CY, Tsai CC, Chen CL, Chang YT, Kai JI, Lin CF. Inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase-3 reduces endotoxaemic acute renal failure by down-regulating inflammation and renal cell apoptosis. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 157:1004-13. [PMID: 19508392 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2009.00284.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Excessive inflammation and apoptosis are pathological features of endotoxaemic acute renal failure. Activation of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is involved in inflammation and apoptosis. We investigated the effects of inhibiting GSK-3 on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute renal failure, nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), inflammation and apoptosis. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of inhibiting GSK-3 with inhibitors, including lithium chloride (LiCl) and 6-bromo-indirubin-3'-oxime (BIO), on LPS-treated (15 mg x kg(-1)) C3H/HeN mice (LiCl, 40 mg x kg(-1) and BIO, 2 mg x kg(-1)) and LPS-treated (1 microg x mL(-1)) renal epithelial cells (LiCl, 20 mM and BIO, 5 microM) were studied. Mouse survival was monitored and renal function was analysed by histological and serological examination. Cytokine and chemokine production, and cell apoptosis were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labelling staining, respectively. Activation of NF-kappaB and GSK-3 was determined by immunostaining and Western blotting, respectively. KEY RESULTS Mice treated with GSK-3 inhibitors showed decreased mortality, renal tubular dilatation, vacuolization and sloughing, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and renal cell apoptosis in response to endotoxaemia. Inhibiting GSK-3 reduced LPS-induced tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and CCL5/RANTES (released upon activation of normal T-cells) in vivo in mice and in vitro in murine kidney cortical collecting duct epithelial M1 cells. Inhibiting GSK-3 did not block TNF-alpha-induced cytotoxicity in rat kidney proximal tubular epithelial NRK52E or in M1 cells. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results suggest that GSK-3 inhibition protects against endotoxaemic acute renal failure mainly by down-regulating pro-inflammatory TNF-alpha and RANTES.
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Chen CL, Wang XK, Nagatsu M. Europium adsorption on multiwall carbon nanotube/iron oxide magnetic composite in the presence of polyacrylic acid. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2009; 43:2362-7. [PMID: 19452887 DOI: 10.1021/es803018a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines the interaction between Eu(III) and a multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/iron oxide magnetic composite in the absence and presence of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA). PAA was used as a surrogate for natural organic matter. The effects of pH, initial Eu(III) concentration, and PAA on Eu(III) adsorption on the magnetic composite were investigated using a batch technique. Percentage adsorption of Eu(III) on the magnetic composite increased with increasing pH and decreased with initial Eu(III) concentration. PAA adsorption on the magnetic composite decreased with increasing pH and was not obviously affected bythe presence of Eu(III). The presence of PAA resulted in strong enhancement of Eu(III) adsorption below pH 4.5. However, above pH 5, an increase in soluble Eu-PAA complexes resulted in a decrease in Eu(III) adsorption on the magnetic composite. With increasing PAA concentrations, maximum adsorption of Eu(III) decreased and the adsorption "edge" shifted toward a lower pH range. Obvious difference of Eu(III)/PAA addition sequences on Eu(III) adsorption was observed above pH 4. The Freundlich model fitted Eu(III) adsorption isotherms very well in the absence and presence of PAA. These results are important for estimating and optimizing the removal of organic and inorganic pollutants by the magnetic composite.
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Chen CL, Cook IJ. Proximal versus distal oesophageal motility as assessed by combined impedance and manometry. Dig Liver Dis 2009; 41:104-9. [PMID: 18760980 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2008.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2008] [Revised: 04/27/2008] [Accepted: 05/05/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regional differences in oesophageal motility have been shown in primary peristalsis, but it is unclear whether such differences occur in secondary peristalsis. We investigated whether oesophageal motor function differs between the proximal and distal oesophagus. METHODS Eleven healthy subjects were studied with combined impedance and manometry. Saline and solid agar boluses of 5 ml were applied for primary peristalsis, and secondary peristalsis was stimulated by rapid mid-oesophageal injections of saline. Impedance tracings were analysed and compared for bolus presence time, bolus transit time in the proximal and distal oesophagus. RESULTS Most of the manometric parameters were not significantly different between the proximal and distal oesophagus. Bolus presence time was longer in the distal oesophagus for both primary peristalsis and secondary peristalsis (p<0.001). The proximal bolus transit time was shorter than the distal bolus transit time during saline and solid swallows (p<0.001). Bolus transit time and bolus presence time were shorter for primary peristalsis than secondary peristalsis induced by saline injection. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrated that the impedance technique can successfully detect functional differences between the proximal and distal oesophagus, and such differences were still noticeable when the oesophagus was directly stimulated by saline injection.
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Yang CF, Chen CL, Busnaina A, Dokmeci MR. Single-walled carbon nanotube based pH sensors on a flexible parylene-C substrate. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2009; 2009:4102-4105. [PMID: 19965021 DOI: 10.1109/iembs.2009.5334598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we present a suspended Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube (SWNT) based pH sensor utilizing a low temperature Dielectrophoretic (DEP) assembly process on a flexible parylene-C substrate. Parylene-C, a light weight, flexible and inert material, is compatible with many microfabrication processes. Furthermore, utilizing parylene-C as a flexible substrate, one can readily create a suspended microplatform utilizing an O2 plasma etch process. Suspended nanobridges have larger exposed surface areas and may potentially have enhanced sensitivity for sensing applications. Fabricating these structures on a thin (10 microm) parylene-C substrate allows their utilization as flexible devices or in wearable sensor applications. We have successfully assembled suspended SWNT nanobridges across a spacing of 4 microm. The electrical characterization results from the assembled SWNTs yield ohmic behavior with a measured two-terminal resistance of approximately 17Komega. Furthermore, the conductometric measurements of the SWNT sensors have demonstrated that corresponding to an increase in pH value, the resistance of SWNTs has decreased due to the OH- group that attached on to the wall of the SWNTs and changed the electrical properties of the SWNTs. These novel suspended nanostructures can be used as potential candidates in nanosensor applications.
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Lin YC, Goto S, Tateno C, Nakano T, Cheng YF, Jawan B, Kao YH, Hsu LW, Lai CY, Yoshizato K, Chen CL. Induction of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase in livers following hepatectomy prolongs survival of allogeneic hepatocytes after transplantation. Transplant Proc 2008; 40:2706-8. [PMID: 18929841 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2008.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), which catalyzes the breakdown of tryptophan into kyneurenine, has immunologic significance for the induction of maternal tolerance and liver allograft tolerance by inhibiting T-cell activation. In the present study, we compared survival of syngeneic or allogeneic hepatocytes in livers with or without hepatectomy. Subsequently, we investigated gene expression and localization of IDO in the recipient liver. METHODS DA and Fisher 344 rats were used in the following experimental groups: group 1, DA hepatocytes transplanted into hepatectomized Fisher 344 rats; group 2, Fisher 344 hepatocytes transplanted into hepatectomized Fisher 344 rats; group 3, DA hepatocytes transplanted into nonhepatectomized Fisher 344 rats; and group 4, Fisher 344 hepatocytes transplanted into nonhepatectomized Fisher 344 rats. After transplantation, the surviving cells were evaluated on day 5. The IDO signal of the recipient liver was detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS In the hepatectomized groups subjected to allogeneic or syngeneic hepatocyte transplantation, the number of surviving hepatocytes was greater than in the nonhepatectomized group after transplantation. The IDO signals (RT-PCR) in the hepatectomized groups were stronger than those in the nonhepatectomized groups. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that the IDO signal is located in liver antigen-presenting cells, such as Kupffer cells or dendritic cells, and not expressed in hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrated that IDO is induced in antigen-presenting cells of hepatectomized livers by which subsequently transplanted cells may be protected from rejection by inhibiting indirect or direct recognition of donor antigen and further T-cell activation.
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Chen CL, Szczesniak MM, Cook IJ. Identification of impaired oesophageal bolus transit and clearance by secondary peristalsis in patients with non-obstructive dysphagia. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2008; 20:980-8. [PMID: 18492025 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2008.01140.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Impaired secondary peristalsis has been shown in non-obstructive dysphagia (NOD). The relationship between such changes and alterations in bolus transport has not been studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the integrity and characteristics of oesophageal bolus transit by secondary peristalsis in NOD patients with multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII). Eleven healthy volunteers and 10 consecutive patients underwent combined MII recording and manometry. Secondary peristalsis was stimulated by mid-oesophageal injections of saline. Values for bolus presence time at each of the recording sites and bolus transit time were calculated. Bolus transit was considered to be complete when impedance defined complete bolus clearance at all recording sites. Secondary peristaltic responses were triggered significantly less frequently in patients with NOD than in controls (P < 0.001). The proportion of secondary peristalsis demonstrating complete bolus transit was lower in NOD patients than in controls (P < 0.001). Oesophageal bolus transit time by secondary peristalsis was longer in NOD patients than in controls (P = 0.005), as was bolus presence time at each of the recording sites (P < 0.05). When compared with controls, NOD patients demonstrated a higher proportion of incomplete bolus transit in response to normal secondary peristalsis (P < 0.001). Abnormal bolus transit occurred more often associated with ineffective and synchronous responses than normal responses in both groups studied (P < 0.001). Multichannel intraluminal impedance identifies functional defects of oesophageal bolus clearance by secondary peristalsis in NOD patients and such defects are characterized by a longer oesophageal dwell and a prolonged clearance time.
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Huang SW, Huang DJ, Okamoto J, Mou CY, Wu WB, Yeh KW, Chen CL, Wu MK, Hsu HC, Chou FC, Chen CT. Magnetic ground state and transition of a quantum multiferroic LiCu2O2. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2008; 101:077205. [PMID: 18764576 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.101.077205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Based on resonant soft x-ray magnetic scattering, we report that LiCu2O2 exhibits a large interchain coupling which suppresses quantum fluctuations along spin chains, and a quasi-2D short-range magnetic order prevails at temperatures above the magnetic transition. These observations unravel the fact that the ground state of LiCu2O2 possesses long-range 2D-like incommensurate magnetic order rather than being a gapped spin liquid as expected from the nature of quantum spin-1/2 chains. In addition, the spin coupling along the c axis is found to be essential for inducing electric polarization.
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Chen CL, Yi CH. Clinical correlates of dysphagia to oesophageal dysmotility: studies using combined manometry and impedance. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2008; 20:611-7. [PMID: 18298439 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2982.2008.01086.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of dysphagia by determining the simultaneous relationships between subjective perception of swallow with oesophageal motility and bolus transport in patients with non-obstructive dysphagia (NOD). Combined oesophageal manometry and impedance was performed in 18 consecutive NOD patients and 14 healthy controls. Swallow was abnormal if the amplitude of distal oesophageal contractions was less than 30 mmHg or simultaneous contractions occurred. Bolus transit was abnormal if bolus exit was not found at one or more of the measuring sites. Perception of each swallow was assessed using a standardized scoring system and was enhanced if score was >1. The prevalence of complete bolus transit was lower in NOD patients compared with healthy controls (P = 0.001). Abnormal liquid bolus transit was found in 40% of patients with normal motility and 38% of patients with abnormal motility, whereas abnormal viscous bolus transit was observed in 38% of patients with normal motility and 70% of patients with abnormal motility. Agreement between enhanced perception and impedance was poor during liquid (kappa = 0.12, 95% CI: -0.003 to 0.233) and viscous swallowing (kappa = 0.12, 95% CI: -0.004 to 0.244). Agreement between enhanced perception and manometry was even poorer during liquid (kappa = -0.16, 95% CI: -0.302 to 0.022) and viscous swallowing (kappa = -0.12, 95% CI: -0.25 to 0.002). NOD patients show poor correlation between dysphagia and oesophageal motility parameters. The results suggest that, in patients with NOD, oesophageal motor dysfunction may play a limited role, if any, in the generation of dysphagia.
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Chen CL, Yi CH, Cook IJ. Differences in oesophageal bolus transit between patients with and without erosive reflux disease. Dig Liver Dis 2008; 40:348-54. [PMID: 18291736 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2007.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2007] [Revised: 12/07/2007] [Accepted: 12/13/2007] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We determined any difference in oesophageal function between reflux patients with and without erosive esophagitis by the application of concurrent manometry and impedance. METHODS Twenty patients with erosive esophagitis, 20 patients with non-erosive reflux disease, and 15 controls were included in this study. All subjects underwent studies with a catheter containing four impedance-measuring segments and five solid-state pressure transducers. Each subject received 10 liquid and 10 viscous boluses to be swallowed. RESULTS Healthy controls had greater distal oesophageal peristaltic amplitude than both patient groups (p < 0.05). Normal oesophageal peristalsis was found more frequently in healthy controls than either of the patient groups (p < 0.05). Patients with erosive esophagitis exhibited a lower percentage of complete bolus transit compared to healthy controls and non-erosive reflux disease patients (both p < 0.05). Patients with erosive esophagitis had a longer total bolus transit time compared to healthy controls and non-erosive reflux disease patients (both p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Erosive esophagitis is characterized by longer oesophageal bolus transit and fewer complete bolus transit than non-erosive reflux disease. The noted differences in oesophageal bolus transit may reflect a continuum of dysfunction secondary to increasing oesophageal mucosal damage.
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Hsu LW, Chen CL, Nakano T, Lai CY, Chiang KC, Lin YC, Kao YH, Chen SH, Goto T, Sung WC, Yang CH, Cheng YF, Jawan B, Chiu KW, Goto S. The role of a nuclear protein, histone H1, on signalling pathways for the maturation of dendritic cells. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 152:576-84. [PMID: 18435805 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03652.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We have demonstrated previously that liver allograft tolerance is associated with the immunosuppressive activity of anti-histone H1 autoreactive antibodies induced in the serum of liver transplantation. Furthermore, we and others have shown that nuclear proteins such as histone H1 and high mobility group box 1 play an important role in maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), although the precise mechanisms are still unknown. In the present study, we focus upon the significance of histone H1 on DCs in terms of the intracellular signalling pathway of DCs. Our immunostaining and immunoblot studies demonstrated that histone H1 was detected in cytoplasm and culture supernatants upon the activation of DCs. Histone H1 blockage by anti-histone H1 antibody down-regulated the intracellular activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) (p38) and IkappaBalpha of DCs, and inhibited DC activity in the proliferation of CD4+ T cells. On the other hand, the addition of histone H1 without endotoxin stimulation up-regulated major histocompatibility complex class II, the CD80 and CD86 surface markers of DCs and the activation of MAPKs (p38 and extracellular-regulated kinase 1/2) and IkappaBalpha. These results suggest that the translocation of histone H1 from nuclei to cytoplasm and the release of their own histone H1 are necessary for the maturation of DCs and the activation for T lymphocytes.
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Chen CL, Yi CH. Utility of esophageal impedance in identifying dysmotility in patients with erosive esophagitis. Dis Esophagus 2008; 21:539-43. [PMID: 18430181 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2050.2008.00818.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
This study was intended to assess the utility of combined multiple intraluminal impedance and esophageal manometry (MII-EM) in evaluating reflux patients and in identifying those with esophageal dysmotility. Thirteen controls and 20 patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) underwent combined MII-EM with a catheter containing four impedance-measuring segments and four solid-state pressure transducers. Each subject received 10 liquid and 10 viscous boluses to be swallowed. Distal esophageal contraction amplitude was significantly lower in GERD patients than in controls for viscous swallows (58.3 +/- 7.3 mmHg versus 82.4 +/- 4.1 mmHg, P = 0.005). Total bolus transit time was significantly slower in GERD patients than in controls for liquid swallows (P = 0.035). The percentages of complete bolus transit were significantly lower in GERD patients compared with controls (all P = 0.005). Half of GERD patients with normal EM still had abnormal bolus transit while three-quarters of those with abnormal EM had abnormal bolus transit. MII helps identify bolus transit abnormalities not detected by conventional manometry. Combined MII-EM is clinically useful for detecting esophageal dysmotility in patients with erosive esophagitis.
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Liu SW, Weerasinghe JL, Liu J, Weaver J, Chen CL, Donner W, Xiao M. Reflective second harmonic generation near resonance in the epitaxial Al-doped ZnO thin film. OPTICS EXPRESS 2007; 15:10666-10671. [PMID: 19547420 DOI: 10.1364/oe.15.010666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The second harmonic (SH) generation from the highly epitaxial Al-doped ZnO film on sapphire was measured, using the femtosecond Ti:Sapphire laser at the near-resonant SH wavelength, in reflection geometry to avoid the sapphire's contribution in the conventional Maker fringes technique. By investigating SH intensities as a function of the azimuthal angle along the film's normal, we found that the sapphire substrate had a negligible contribution to the reflective SH signal and the film had a pure and well-aligned c-domain. We also developed a new method to calculate the component's ratios of the nonlinear susceptibility tensor by analyzing the polarization diagrams of SH intensities under the incidence with two different angles. The ratios indicate that Kleinman's symmetry is broken due to the absorption at SH wavelength and the dominant component of the nonlinear susceptibility tensor is d(33). Calibration using the Z-cut quartz shows a possible overestimate of the nonlinear response by Maker fringes technique.
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Chen CL, Lai PH, Chou KJ, Lee PT, Chung HM, Fang HC. A preliminary report of brain edema in patients with uremia at first hemodialysis: evaluation by diffusion-weighted MR imaging. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2007; 28:68-71. [PMID: 17213426 PMCID: PMC8134091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2006] [Accepted: 04/19/2006] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The dynamics of brain-water content associated with hemodialysis in patients with severe azotemia remains obscure. To investigate whether either interstitial or cytotoxic edema is responsible for dialysis disequilibrium syndrome (DDS), we used diffusion-weighted MR imaging (DWI) to measure the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), which is sensitive for detecting tissue water dynamics. METHODS Eight consecutive patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) and blood urea nitrogen level of more than 100 mg/dL (160.9 +/- 53.1 mg/dL) were recruited. Conventional MR images, DWI, and clinical manifestations were obtained before and after the 1st hemodialysis. The ADC values were determined for regions of normal-appearing gray and white matter and for regions of hyperintensity of white matter on T2-weighted MR imaging. RESULTS Foci of bright areas of white matter were found in all patients on T2-weighted images. The ADC values of the patients with ESRD, in white matter and gray matter before and after hemodialysis, were greater than those of the healthy controls (P < .005). Regarding the impact of hemodialysis, the ADC of frontal lobe white matter increased significantly after hemodialysis (1.09 +/- 0.11 versus 1.03 +/- 0.11, P = .036). We did not find the specific area of brain edema reported in posterior leukoencephalopathy and the osmotic demyelination syndrome. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that severe azotemia in end stage renal disease leads to interstitial brain edema reflected as increased ADC, and the further increased ADC reflects that edema associated with 1st hemodialysis is interstitial rather than cytotoxic in nature.
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Cheng YF, Huang TL, Chen TY, Concejero A, Tsang LLC, Wang CC, Wang SH, Sun CK, Lin CC, Liu YW, Yang CH, Yong CC, Ou SY, Yu CY, Chiu KW, Jawan B, Eng HL, Chen CL. Liver graft-to-recipient spleen size ratio as a novel predictor of portal hyperperfusion syndrome in living donor liver transplantation. Am J Transplant 2006; 6:2994-9. [PMID: 17061990 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2006.01562.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Portal hyperperfusion in a small-size liver graft is one cause of posttransplant graft dysfunction. We retrospectively analyzed the potential risk factors predicting the development of portal hyperperfusion in 43 adult living donor liver transplantation recipients. The following were evaluated: age, body weight, native liver disease, spleen size, graft size, graft-to-recipient weight ratio (GRWR), total portal flow, recipient portal venous flow per 100 g graft weight (RPVF), graft-to-recipient spleen size ratio (GRSSR) and portosystemic shunting. Spleen size was directly proportional to the total portal flow (p = 0.001) and RPVF (p = 0.014). Graft hyperperfusion (RPVF flow > 250 mL/min/100 g graft) was seen in eight recipients. If the GRSSR was < 0.6, 5 of 11 cases were found to have graft hyperperfusion (p = 0.017). The presence of portosystemic shunting was significant in decreasing excessive RPVF (p = 0.059). A decrease in portal flow in the hyperperfused grafts was achieved by intraoperative splenic artery ligation or splenectomy. Spleen size is a major factor contributing to portal flow after transplant. The GRSSR is associated with posttransplant graft hyperperfusion at a ratio of < 0.6.
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96
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Lee SY, Wang MR, Chen CY, Chen CL, Hwang SJ, Chen H, Lai WH, Shyng LT, Wang CC. Method for Rapid Prototyping by Using Linear Light as Sources. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1088/1742-6596/48/1/147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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97
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Abstract
Ceramide, a product of sphingolipid metabolism, is generated in response to various stress stimuli, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, CD95/Fas, chemotherapeutic agents, and irradiation. Ceramide may modulate the biochemical and cellular processes that lead to apoptosis. However, the mechanisms by which ceramide regulates apoptotic events are not fully defined. It is believed that the biological effect of ceramide depends on its concentration, the activation or differentiation status of the cell, and the time frame of action. Here, we discuss the metabolism and cell apoptotic signaling of ceramide. The involvement of protein kinases (i.e. PI3K/Akt and GSK-3beta) and protein phosphatases (i.e. PP1 and PP2A), Bcl-2 family proteins, mitochondrial damage, and caspase cascade activation are demonstrated. Further, ceramide and its derivatives have recently been incorporated into strategies for anticancer therapies. An understanding of the apoptotic signaling pathways mediated by ceramide may shed light on its potential for therapeutic intervention.
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98
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Chen CY, Chuang YL, Yao MS, Chiu WT, Chen CL, Chan WP. Posterior epidural migration of a sequestrated lumbar disk fragment: MR imaging findings. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2006; 27:1592-4. [PMID: 16908587 PMCID: PMC7977555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
We present a 75-year-old man who, for 2 weeks, had progressive pain in both of his thighs when standing straight. MR imaging showed a sequestrated disk fragment, which had a signal intensity similar to that of a herniated disk with a rim enhancement in the posterior epidural space and a ruptured outermost annulus of the intervertebral disk at L2-3. Awareness of these MR imaging findings can help in the diagnosis of posterior epidural disk migration.
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99
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Wang HC, Ko YH, Mersmann HJ, Chen CL, Ding ST. The expression of genes related to adipocyte differentiation in pigs1. J Anim Sci 2006; 84:1059-66. [PMID: 16612007 DOI: 10.2527/2006.8451059x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to detect differential expression of genes related to adipocyte differentiation in pigs by suppression subtractive hybridization. Adipocytes and stromal vascular cells (a fraction containing preadipocytes) from pig adipose tissue were isolated for mRNA extraction. The cDNA from preadipocytes was subtracted from the cDNA from adipocytes. The subtracted gene fragments were cloned into pGEM-T Easy TA cloning vector. We selected 384 clones for gene sequence determination and for further analysis. These genes were subjected to a differential screening procedure to confirm the differential expression of genes between the 2 cell types. We found that at least 36 genes were highly expressed in the adipocytes compared with preadipocytes. Among these, 6 genes including 2 novel genes with the greatest differences were selected and confirmed by Northern analysis. We found that angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE), ataxia-telangiectasia mutated protein (ATM), calpain 1, and stearoyl coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) were highly expressed in adipocytes compared with preadipocytes (P < 0.05). The relative mRNA abundance of ACE, ATM, calpain 1, SCD1, and 2 novel genes discovered in the current study was increased at the later stages of adipocyte differentiation (P < 0.05). The results confirmed that the genes involved in lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation were highly expressed in porcine adipocytes. However, further investigation is needed to demonstrate specific functions of the novel genes discovered in the current study.
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100
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Chen CL, Tunick PA, Kronzon I. Pulmonary Vein Compression by Tumor: An Unusual Doppler Flow Pattern. Echocardiography 2005; 22:746-7. [PMID: 16194169 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8175.2005.00114.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary venous compression caused by a large lung mass was diagnosed in a 50-year-old female with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. The pulmonary venous flow pattern on Doppler revealed high flow velocity as well as the unusual finding of continued antegrade flow throughout the cardiac cycle (without reversal during atrial contraction). Extracardiac tumors can compress pulmonary veins, mimicking pulmonary vein stenosis. This may cause dyspnea due to elevated pulmonary venous pressures. This report describes an unusual pulmonary vein blood flow pattern in a patient with lung metastases.
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