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Lam J, Ying M, Cheung SY, Yeung KH, Yu PH, Cheng HC, Ahuja AT. A Comparison of the Diagnostic Accuracy and Reliability of Subjective Grading and Computer-Aided Assessment of Intranodal Vascularity in Differentiating Metastatic and Reactive Cervical Lymphadenopathy. ULTRASCHALL IN DER MEDIZIN (STUTTGART, GERMANY : 1980) 2016; 37:63-67. [PMID: 25140495 DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1384939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ultrasound is a well-established imaging modality in the assessment of malignant cervical lymphadenopathy. With the use of Doppler ultrasound, intranodal vascularity can be evaluated. However, the major limitation of ultrasound is operator dependency. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy and reliability of the subjective grading and computer-aided approach in assessing intranodal vascularity for the differentiation of benign and malignant lymph nodes. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present study retrospectively assessed 99 power Doppler ultrasound images of cervical lymph nodes and evaluated the degree of intranodal vascularity using qualitative subjective grading (QSG) and quantitative computer-aided (QCA) methods. The diagnostic accuracy of the two methods in distinguishing metastatic and reactive nodes and their inter- and intra-rater reliability in assessing intranodal vascularity were evaluated and compared. RESULTS The results showed that the QCA method was more accurate than the QSG method with a significantly higher sensitivity (67.8 % and 61.9 %, respectively, p < 0.05) and specificity (73.3 % and 57.3 %, respectively, p < 0.05). Using the intranodal vascularity index as determined by the QCA approach, the optimum cut-off to differentiate metastatic and reactive cervical lymph nodes was 32 %. The QCA method showed higher inter- and intra-rater reliability than the QSG method. CONCLUSION In the assessment of the degree of intranodal vascularity, the QCA method was more accurate and reliable than the QSG method in distinguishing metastatic and reactive lymph nodes.
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Mountziaris PM, Shah SR, Lam J, Bennett GN, Mikos AG. A rapid, flexible method for incorporating controlled antibiotic release into porous polymethylmethacrylate space maintainers for craniofacial reconstruction. Biomater Sci 2016; 4:121-9. [PMID: 26340063 PMCID: PMC4679697 DOI: 10.1039/c5bm00175g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Severe injuries in the craniofacial complex, resulting from trauma or pathology, present several challenges to functional and aesthetic reconstruction. The anatomy and position of the craniofacial region make it vulnerable to injury and subsequent local infection due to external bacteria as well as those from neighbouring structures like the sinuses, nasal passages, and mouth. Porous polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) "space maintainers" have proven useful in staged craniofacial reconstruction by promoting healing of overlying soft tissue prior to reconstruction of craniofacial bones. We describe herein a method by which the porosity of a prefabricated porous PMMA space maintainer, generated by porogen leaching, can be loaded with a thermogelling copolymer-based drug delivery system. Porogen leaching, space maintainer prewetting, and thermogel loading all significantly affected the loading of a model antibiotic, colistin. Weeks-long release of antibiotic at clinically relevant levels was achieved with several formulations. In vitro assays confirmed that the released colistin maintained its antibiotic activity against several bacterial targets. Our results suggest that this method is a valuable tool in the development of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of severe complex, infected craniofacial injuries.
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Lim CHL, Carnt NA, Farook M, Lam J, Tan DT, Mehta JS, Stapleton F. Risk factors for contact lens-related microbial keratitis in Singapore. Eye (Lond) 2015; 30:447-55. [PMID: 26634710 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2015.250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate independent risk factors for contact lens-related microbial keratitis in Singapore and estimate their impact on disease load. METHODS Cases were contact lens wearers presenting to Singapore National Eye Centre with microbial keratitis between 2008 and 2010. Community contact lens wearers were recruited as controls. All wearers completed a previously validated questionnaire describing contact lens wear history, hygiene and compliance habits, and demographics. Risk factors significant in univariate analysis (P<0.2) were evaluated in a multivariate model. RESULTS In all, 58 cases of microbial keratitis and 152 contemporaneous controls were identified. When controlling for other variables, Chinese had a 7 × lower risk compared with other races (95% CI: 2.3-21.3, P=0.001). Those aged between 25 and 44 years were at 3 × increased risk compared with younger wearers (95% CI: 1.1-9.6, P=0.04). Occasional overnight contact lens wear (less often than one night per week) was associated with a 4 × higher risk (95% CI: 1.2-15.4, P=0.03) compared with daily use. Not washing hands before handling was associated with a 13 × increased risk (95% CI: 1.9-84.8, P=0.008). Use of multipurpose solution A carried a 16 × higher risk compared with hydrogen peroxide (95% CI: 1.5-174.0, P=0.02). The combined PAR% for modifiable risk factors (occasional overnight wear, not washing of hands, and MPS A) was 82%. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with previous findings, independent risk factors for contact lens-related microbial keratitis include poor hand hygiene, occasional overnight wear, and type of lens care solution. Prolonged overnight or extended contact lens use was infrequent in this population.
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Li S, Lam J, Zhang J, Chan J, Yu M, Wing Y. Symptoms of insomnia in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: Prevalence, correlates and association with suicidality. Sleep Med 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2015.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Li S, Lam J, Zhang J, Yu M, Chan J, Chan C, Espie C, Freeman D, Mason O, Wing Y. Can sleep disturbances predict suicide risk in patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders? A 8-year naturalistic longitudinal study. Sleep Med 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2015.02.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Vesterinen HM, Johnson PI, Atchley DS, Sutton P, Lam J, Zlatnik MG, Sen S, Woodruff TJ. Fetal growth and maternal glomerular filtration rate: a systematic review. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2015; 28:2176-81. [PMID: 25382561 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2014.980809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) may influence concentrations of biomarkers of exposure and their etiologic significance in observational studies of associations between environmental contaminants and fetal growth. It is unknown whether the size of a developing fetus affects maternal GFR such that a small fetus leads to reduced plasma volume expansion (PVE), reduced GFR and subsequent higher concentrations of biomarkers in maternal serum. Our objective was to answer the question: "Is there an association between fetal growth and maternal GFR in humans?" METHODS We adapted and applied the Navigation Guide systematic review methodology to assess the evidence of an association between fetal growth and GFR, either directly or indirectly via reduction in PVE. RESULTS We identified 35 relevant studies. We rated 31 human and two non-human observational studies as "low" quality and two experimental non-human studies as "very low" quality. We rated all three evidence streams as "inadequate". The association between fetal growth and GFR was "not classifiable" according to pre-specified definitions. CONCLUSIONS There is currently insufficient evidence to support the plausibility of a reverse causality hypothesis for associations between exposure to environmental chemicals during pregnancy and fetal growth. Further research would be needed to confirm or disprove this hypothesis.
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Sheehan MC, Lam J. Use of Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis in Environmental Health Epidemiology: a Systematic Review and Comparison with Guidelines. Curr Environ Health Rep 2015; 2:272-83. [PMID: 26231504 PMCID: PMC4513215 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-015-0062-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis (MA) have potential to contribute substantially to environmental health (EH) risk assessment and policy-making, provided study questions are clear and methods sound. We undertook a systematic review of the published epidemiological literature for studies using both SR and MA examining associations between chronic low-dose chemical exposures and adverse health outcomes in general populations and compared actual methods and reporting with a checklist based on available published guidelines. We identified 48 EH SRMAs meeting these criteria. Associations were mainly positive and statistically significant, often involving large populations. A majority of studies followed most general SRMA guidance, although we identified weaknesses in problem formulation, study search, selection and data extraction, and integrating policy implications. Fewer studies followed EH-specific SRMA recommendations, particularly regarding exposure heterogeneity and other risks of bias. Development and adoption of EH-specific SRMA guidelines would contribute to strengthening these tools for public health decision-making.
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Ng HJ, Lam J, Koh PL, Ho L, Lim CY, Akhbar Ali M, Mya D, Than H, Ho LP, Tan AM, Lee LH, Tien SL. A comprehensive study of current haemophilia care and outcomes in Singapore. Haemophilia 2015; 21:e428-31. [PMID: 26058545 DOI: 10.1111/hae.12729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Lam J, Koustas E, Sutton P, Johnson PI, Atchley DS, Sen S, Robinson KA, Axelrad DA, Woodruff TJ. The Navigation Guide - evidence-based medicine meets environmental health: integration of animal and human evidence for PFOA effects on fetal growth. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2014; 122:1040-51. [PMID: 24968389 PMCID: PMC4181930 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1307923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/20/2014] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Navigation Guide is a novel systematic review method to synthesize scientific evidence and reach strength of evidence conclusions for environmental health decision making. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to integrate scientific findings from human and nonhuman studies to determine the overall strength of evidence for the question "Does developmental exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) affect fetal growth in humans?" METHODS We developed and applied prespecified criteria to systematically and transparently a) rate the quality of the scientific evidence as "high," "moderate," or "low"; b) rate the strength of the human and nonhuman evidence separately as "sufficient," "limited," "moderate," or "evidence of lack of toxicity"; and c) integrate the strength of the human and nonhuman evidence ratings into a strength of the evidence conclusion. RESULTS We identified 18 epidemiology studies and 21 animal toxicology studies relevant to our study question. We rated both the human and nonhuman mammalian evidence as "moderate" quality and "sufficient" strength. Integration of these evidence ratings produced a final strength of evidence rating in which review authors concluded that PFOA is "known to be toxic" to human reproduction and development based on sufficient evidence of decreased fetal growth in both human and nonhuman mammalian species. CONCLUSION We concluded that developmental exposure to PFOA adversely affects human health based on sufficient evidence of decreased fetal growth in both human and nonhuman mammalian species. The results of this case study demonstrate the application of a systematic and transparent methodology, via the Navigation Guide, for reaching strength of evidence conclusions in environmental health.
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Johnson PI, Sutton P, Atchley DS, Koustas E, Lam J, Sen S, Robinson KA, Axelrad DA, Woodruff TJ. The Navigation Guide - evidence-based medicine meets environmental health: systematic review of human evidence for PFOA effects on fetal growth. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2014; 122:1028-39. [PMID: 24968388 PMCID: PMC4181929 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1307893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 296] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 06/23/2014] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Navigation Guide methodology was developed to meet the need for a robust method of systematic and transparent research synthesis in environmental health science. We conducted a case study systematic review to support proof of concept of the method. OBJECTIVE We applied the Navigation Guide systematic review methodology to determine whether developmental exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) affects fetal growth in humans. METHODS We applied the first 3 steps of the Navigation Guide methodology to human epidemiological data: 1) specify the study question, 2) select the evidence, and 3) rate the quality and strength of the evidence. We developed a protocol, conducted a comprehensive search of the literature, and identified relevant studies using prespecified criteria. We evaluated each study for risk of bias and conducted meta-analyses on a subset of studies. We rated quality and strength of the entire body of human evidence. RESULTS We identified 18 human studies that met our inclusion criteria, and 9 of these were combined through meta-analysis. Through meta-analysis, we estimated that a 1-ng/mL increase in serum or plasma PFOA was associated with a -18.9 g (95% CI: -29.8, -7.9) difference in birth weight. We concluded that the risk of bias across studies was low, and we assigned a "moderate" quality rating to the overall body of human evidence. CONCLUSION On the basis of this first application of the Navigation Guide systematic review methodology, we concluded that there is "sufficient" human evidence that developmental exposure to PFOA reduces fetal growth.
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Koustas E, Lam J, Sutton P, Johnson PI, Atchley DS, Sen S, Robinson KA, Axelrad DA, Woodruff TJ. The Navigation Guide - evidence-based medicine meets environmental health: systematic review of nonhuman evidence for PFOA effects on fetal growth. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2014; 122:1015-27. [PMID: 24968374 PMCID: PMC4181920 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1307177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2014] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to current methods of expert-based narrative review, the Navigation Guide is a systematic and transparent method for synthesizing environmental health research from multiple evidence streams. The Navigation Guide was developed to effectively and efficiently translate the available scientific evidence into timely prevention-oriented action. OBJECTIVES We applied the Navigation Guide systematic review method to answer the question "Does fetal developmental exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) or its salts affect fetal growth in animals ?" and to rate the strength of the experimental animal evidence. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive search of the literature, applied prespecified criteria to the search results to identify relevant studies, extracted data from studies, obtained additional information from study authors, conducted meta-analyses, and rated the overall quality and strength of the evidence. RESULTS Twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. From the meta-analysis of eight mouse gavage data sets, we estimated that exposure of pregnant mice to increasing concentrations of PFOA was associated with a change in mean pup birth weight of -0.023 g (95% CI: -0.029, -0.016) per 1-unit increase in dose (milligrams per kilogram body weight per day). The evidence, consisting of 15 mammalian and 6 nonmammalian studies, was rated as "moderate" and "low" quality, respectively. CONCLUSION Based on this first application of the Navigation Guide methodology, we found sufficient evidence that fetal developmental exposure to PFOA reduces fetal growth in animals.
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Rennick CJ, Lam J, Doherty WG, Softley TP. Magnetic trapping of cold bromine atoms. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2014; 112:023002. [PMID: 24484005 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.112.023002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic trapping of bromine atoms at temperatures in the millikelvin regime is demonstrated for the first time. The atoms are produced by photodissociation of Br2 molecules in a molecular beam. The lab-frame velocity of Br atoms is controlled by the wavelength and polarization of the photodissociation laser. Careful selection of the wavelength results in one of the pair of atoms having sufficient velocity to exactly cancel that of the parent molecule, and it remains stationary in the lab frame. A trap is formed at the null point between two opposing neodymium permanent magnets. Dissociation of molecules at the field minimum results in the slowest fraction of photofragments remaining trapped. After the ballistic escape of the fastest atoms, the trapped slow atoms are lost only by elastic collisions with the chamber background gas. The measured loss rate is consistent with estimates of the total cross section for only those collisions transferring sufficient kinetic energy to overcome the trapping potential.
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McPartland J, Lam J, Lanier-Christensen C. A valuable contribution toward adopting systematic review in environmental health. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2014; 122:A10. [PMID: 24380927 PMCID: PMC3888580 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1307701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Lam J, Kelly M, Leigh R, Parkins M. Granulomatous PJP presenting as a solitary lung nodule in an immune competent female. Respir Med Case Rep 2014; 11:4-6. [PMID: 26029519 PMCID: PMC3969607 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2013] [Revised: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) opportunistically targets immunosuppressed patients, most notably those with advanced HIV/AIDS. Radiologically, PJP typically appears as bilateral diffuse pulmonary infiltrates. Herein an unusual case of an immunocompetent woman developing granulomatous PJP in the absence of evident risk factors is described. PJP may be an under-recognized cause of pulmonary nodules in immune competent individuals.
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Li S, Lam J, Zhang J, Yu M, Wing Y. Prevalence and correlates of nightmare disturbances in patients with sleep disorders other than REM-parasomnias. Sleep Med 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2013.11.430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kim JH, Griffiths SM, Lau CH, Fong BYF, Lam J. Pathological Internet use and associated factors among university students in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Med J 2013; 19 Suppl 9:9-11. [PMID: 24473582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
1. Among university entrants, the prevalence of pathological Internet use (PIU) increased more than three-fold (from 5.0 to 15.7%) after 18 months of university life. Psycho-social factors such as depression, life dissatisfaction, and use of the Internet for recreational purposes were associated with the development of PIU. 2. University health workers should be aware that PIU is associated with inferior mental well-being, increased sleeping disorders, and deterioration of family relationships. Special attention should be given to Mainland Chinese students and those with pre-existing psychological problems, as they are more prone to developing PIU. 3. Most university students with PIU were unaware of the health implications of the condition and thus not motivated to seek help. Health workers must take a pro-active approach.
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Li S, Chan J, Lam J, Yu M, Wing Y. Can nocturnal sleep disturbances predict non-remission and relapse in patients with major depressive disorder? V A 5-year naturalistic longitudinal study. Sleep Med 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2013.11.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Vesterinen HM, Johnson PI, Koustas E, Lam J, Sutton P, Woodruff TJ. In Support of EHP's Proposal to Adopt the ARRIVE Guidelines. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2013; 121:A325. [PMID: 24284027 PMCID: PMC3855525 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1307775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
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Lam J. P155 Lessons Learned: Applying Grade Methodology To Evidence-Based Health Technology Assessment Within A Managed Care Setting. BMJ Qual Saf 2013. [DOI: 10.1136/bmjqs-2013-002293.185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Maazi H, Lam J, Lombardi V, Akbari O. Role of plasmacytoid dendritic cell subsets in allergic asthma. Allergy 2013; 68:695-701. [PMID: 23662841 DOI: 10.1111/all.12166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are major type-I interferon-producing cells that play important roles in antiviral immunity and tolerance induction. These cells share a common DC progenitor with conventional DCs, and Fms-like tyrosine kinase-3 ligand is essential for their development. Several subsets of pDCs have been identified to date including CCR9(+) , CD9(+) , and CD2(+) pDCs. Recently, three subsets of pDCs were described, namely CD8α(-) β(-) , CD8α(+) β(-) , and CD8α(+) β(+) subsets. Interestingly, CD8α(+) β(-) and CD8α(+) β(+) but not CD8α(-) β(-) pDCs were shown to have tolerogenic effects in experimentally induced allergic asthma. These tolerogenic effects were shown to be mediated by the generation of FOXP3(+) regulatory T cells through retinoic acid and the induction of retinaldehyde dehydrogenase enzymes. These newly described subsets of pDCs show high potentials for novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of allergic diseases. In this review, we will address the new progress in our understanding of pDC biology with respect to allergic disease, in particular allergic asthma.
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Oudshoorn M, Williams A, Lam J, Elliott R, Grant A. Improving the biocompatibilty of alginate/poly-l-ornithine capsules through the masking of amines and pegylation. Cytotherapy 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2013.01.168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Koustas E, Sutton P, Lam J, Robinson KA, Sen S, Axelrad DA, Woodruff TJ. S-120. Epidemiology 2012. [DOI: 10.1097/01.ede.0000416973.77200.3c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Hongli Dong, Zidong Wang, Lam J, Huijun Gao. Fuzzy-Model-Based Robust Fault Detection With Stochastic Mixed Time Delays and Successive Packet Dropouts. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 42:365-76. [DOI: 10.1109/tsmcb.2011.2163797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 224] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Hedlund BP, McDonald AI, Lam J, Dodsworth JA, Brown JR, Hungate BA. Potential role of Thermus thermophilus and T. oshimai in high rates of nitrous oxide (N2O) production in ∼80 °C hot springs in the US Great Basin. GEOBIOLOGY 2011; 9:471-480. [PMID: 21951553 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-4669.2011.00295.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Ambient nitrous oxide (N(2)O) emissions from Great Boiling Spring (GBS) in the US Great Basin depended on temperature, with the highest flux, 67.8 ± 2.6 μmol N(2)O-N m(-2) day(-1) , occurring in the large source pool at 82 °C. This rate of N(2)O production contrasted with negligible production from nearby soils and was similar to rates from soils and sediments impacted with agricultural fertilizers. To investigate the source of N(2)O, a variety of approaches were used to enrich and isolate heterotrophic micro-organisms, and isolates were screened for nitrate reduction ability. Nitrate-respiring isolates were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing as Thermus thermophilus (31 isolates) and T. oshimai (three isolates). All isolates reduced nitrate to N(2)O but not to dinitrogen and were unable to grow with N(2)O as a terminal electron acceptor. Representative T. thermophilus and T. oshimai strains contained genes with 96-98% and 93% DNA identity, respectively, to the nitrate reductase catalytic subunit gene (narG) of T. thermophilus HB8. These data implicate T. thermophilus and T. oshimai in high flux of N(2)O in GBS and raise questions about the genetic basis of the incomplete denitrification pathway in these organisms and on the fate of biogenic N(2)O in geothermal environments.
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Chan A, Wong S, Chen PP, Tsoi TH, Lam J, Ip WY, Wong CP, Wong L, Mok V. Validation study of the Chinese Identification Pain Questionnaire for neuropathic pain. Hong Kong Med J 2011; 17:297-300. [PMID: 21813898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES For diagnosing neuropathic pain, a simple 6-item patient-completed identification pain questionnaire has been validated among Caucasians. We aimed to study the validity and reliability of this questionnaire among Hong Kong Chinese patients. DESIGN Questionnaire survey. SETTING Two pain clinics and two neurology clinics in Hong Kong. PATIENTS Patients with either neuropathic pain or nociceptive pain were recruited randomly from the four clinics. The patients completed the questionnaire themselves and the diagnosis of neuropathic pain and nociceptive pain was made by the pain specialists. We determined the optimal cutoff, positive and negative predictive values, sensitivity, specificity, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, and test-retest reliability of the translated version. RESULTS Among the 92 participants, 60 (65%) had neuropathic pain and 32 (35%) had nociceptive pain. At an optimal cutoff score of 3 or higher, the positive predictive value was 87% while the negative predictive value was 55%, and it correctly classified 71% of cases. The specificity and sensitivity were 81% and 65%, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.78 (P<0.001). Test-retest reliability in the 10 randomly selected patients showed a good intraclass correlation of 0.72. CONCLUSION The Chinese Identification Pain Questionnaire is a valid and reliable scale that may be used as an initial diagnostic tool for neuropathic pain among Hong Kong Chinese patients.
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