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Kim WC, Lee KH, Shin KS, You RN, Lee YK, Cho K, Cho DH. REMiner-II: a tool for rapid identification and configuration of repetitive element arrays from large mammalian chromosomes as a single query. Genomics 2012; 100:131-40. [PMID: 22750555 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2012] [Revised: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Genes occupy ~3% of the human and mouse genomes whereas repetitive elements (REs), whose biologic functions are largely uncharacterized, constitute greater than 50%. A heterogeneous population of RE arrays (arrangement structures) is formed by combinations of various REs in mammalian genomes. In this study, REMiner-II was refined from the original REMiner for a more efficient identification and configuration of RE arrays from large queries (e.g., human chromosomes) using an unbiased self-alignment protocol. Chromosome-wide RE array profiles for the entire sets of human and mouse chromosomes were obtained using REMiner-II on a personal computer. REMiner-II provides 10 adjustable parameters and three data output modes to accommodate different experimental settings and/or goals. Examination of the human and mouse chromosome data using the REMiner-II viewer revealed species-specific libraries of complexly organized RE arrays. In conclusion, REMiner-II is an efficient tool for chromosome-wide identification and characterization of RE arrays from mammalian genomes.
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152
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Kao D, Hsu K, Chiu S, Tu V, Chew A, Lee KH, Lee YK, Kwon DN, Greenhalgh DG, Cho K. ERE database: a database of genomic maps and biological properties of endogenous retroviral elements in the C57BL/6J mouse genome. Genomics 2012; 100:157-61. [PMID: 22691267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Revised: 05/31/2012] [Accepted: 06/04/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous retroviral elements (EREs), a family of transposable elements, constitute a substantial fraction of mammalian genomes. It is expected that profiles of the ERE sequences and their genomic locations are unique for each individual. Comprehensive characterization of the EREs' genomic locations and their biological properties is essential for understanding their roles in the pathophysiology of the host. In this study, we identified and mapped putative EREs (a total of 111 endogenous retroviruses [ERVs] and 488 solo long terminal repeats [sLTRs]) within the C57BL/6J mouse genome. The biological properties of individual ERE isolates (both ERVs and sLTRs) were then characterized in the following aspects: transcription potential, tropism trait, coding potential, recombination event, integration age, and primer binding site for replication. In addition, a suite of database management system programs was developed to organize and update the data acquired from current and future studies and to make the data accessible via internet.
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Shin SY, Jang S, Park CJ, Chi HS, Lee JH, Lee JH, Lee KH, Suh C, Lim SE, Seo EJ. Application of an immune-magnetic cell sorting method for CD138-positive plasma cells in FISH analysis of multiple myeloma. Int J Lab Hematol 2012; 34:541-6. [PMID: 22672327 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-553x.2012.01433.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis of multiple myeloma (MM) may indiscriminately count signals of nonplasma cells, thus decreasing specificity and sensitivity. We aimed to evaluate the usefulness of an immune-magnetic sorting method for plasma cells in FISH analysis of MM and define optimal sample preparation conditions. METHODS Plasma cells were purified using EasySep(®) CD138 Positive Selection Cocktail and Magnetic Nanoparticles (Invitrogen). We compared FISH results with and without plasma cell purification for three sample preparation methods: direct harvest, 24-h culture, and 96-h culture with interleukin-4 in five newly diagnosed MM patients. Archived fixed bone marrow cells of 17 MM patients were also studied. RESULTS The percentage of abnormal cells identified was significantly higher with plasma cell purification than without purification (median, 88.0%; range, 84.0-100.0%vs. 15.0%, 12.5-29.5%, respectively). The three sample preparation methods showed comparable results. Immune-magnetic sorting also significantly increased the percentage of abnormal cells identified in FISH analysis of archived fixed bone marrow cells (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Immune-magnetic CD138-positive cell sorting significantly increased the percentage of abnormal cells identified in FISH analysis of MM samples for all sample preparation methods. This method could also be applied for retrospective FISH analysis of archived fixed bone marrow cells.
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Kim HJ, Kwak HK, Lee J, Yun YJ, Lee JS, Lee MS, Min SY, Park SK, Kang HS, Maeng YH, Kim SY, Kim SY, Kook YH, Kim YR, Lee KH. Patterns of pncA mutations in drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolated from patients in South Korea. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2012; 16:98-103. [PMID: 22236853 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.10.0739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pyrazinamide (PZA), one of the most effective anti-tuberculosis drugs, becomes toxic to Mycobacterium tuberculosis when converted to pyrazinoic acid by pyrazinamidase (PZase). PZA resistance is caused mainly by the loss of enzyme activity by mutation. OBJECTIVE To investigate the patterns of pncA mutations in PZA-resistant mycobacteria isolated from South Korean patients. METHODS Mycobacterial isolates with clinically proven drug resistance were cultured to determine susceptibility to anti-tuberculosis agents. pncA mutations were recognised by sequencing and compared with the relevant wild-type DNA sequence. RESULTS Among 108 isolates, 102 were successfully cultured and underwent drug susceptibility testing; all were multidrug-resistant (MDR). pncA mutations were found in 86 cultured isolates (85.1%): 55 (84.6%) in MDR and 31 (86.1%) in extensively drug-resistant isolates. Substitution of a single nucleotide was most common. The most frequent mutations were a deletion that caused a frameshift at nucleotide (nt) 71, a substitution at nt 403 and a substitution at nt 11. Combined, these accounted for ≈ 40% of all mutations. However, 15 samples (14.9%) with defective PZase activity showed no mutation. CONCLUSION pncA mutation in M. tuberculosis is a major mechanism of PZA resistance in MDR isolates from patients in South Korea. The patterns of mutation might be more scattered and diverse. DNA-based diagnosis of PZA resistance has potential for the rapid detection of drug resistance.
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Kim J, Park S, Kang HM, Ahn CW, Kwon HC, Song JH, Lee YJ, Lee KH, Yang H, Baek SY, Yoo SH, Kim SH, Kim H. Human insulin secreted from insulinogenic xenograft restores normoglycemia in type 1 diabetic mice without immunosuppression. Cell Transplant 2012; 21:2131-47. [PMID: 22490341 DOI: 10.3727/096368912x636803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we examined the therapeutic potential of human amnion-derived insulin-secreting cells for type 1 diabetes. Human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMs) were isolated from amnion and cultivated to differentiate into insulin-secreting cells in vitro. After culture in vitro, the differentiated cells (hAM-ISCs) were intensively stained with dithizone and secreted insulin and c-peptide in a high-glucose-dependent manner. They expressed mRNAs of pancreatic cell-related genes, including INS, PDX1, Nkx6-1, NEUROG3, ISL1, NEUROD1, GLUT1, GLUT2, PC1/3, PC2, GCK, PPY, SST, and GC, and were positive for human insulin and c-peptide. Transplantation of hAM-ISCs into the kidneys of mice with streptozotocin-induced diabetes restored body weight and normalized the blood glucose levels, which lasted for 210 days. Only human insulin and c-peptide were detected in the blood of normalized mice after 2 months of transplantation, but little mouse insulin and c-peptide. Removal of graft-bearing kidneys from these mice resulted in causing hyperglycemia again. Human cell-specific gene, hAlu, and human pancreatic cell-specific genes, insulin, PDX1, GLUT1, GLP1R, Nkx6-1, NEUROD1, and NEUROG3, were detected in the graft-bearing kidneys. Colocalization of human insulin and human nuclei antigen was also observed. These results demonstrate that hAMs could differentiate into functional insulin-secreting cells in vitro, and human insulin secreted from hAM-ISCs following transplantation into type 1 diabetic mice could normalize hyperglycemia, overcoming immune rejection for a long period.
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Lee KH, Cho K. Reply to Emv2, the only endogenous ecotropic murine leukemia virus of C57BL/6J mice. Retrovirology 2012; 9:24. [PMID: 22439701 PMCID: PMC3342886 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4690-9-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
This correspondence was written in response to the comments by Young et al. Following careful evaluation of the relevant dataset, each of the points brought up by Young et al. has been addressed in this response. We anticipate this will clarify our findings regarding ERVmch8, an ecotropic endogenous retrovirus that was shown to have cerebellum-specific and age-dependent expression patterns in C57BL/6J mice.
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Jung SJ, Kang Y, Ha YJ, Lee KH, Lee SW, Lee SK, Park YB. Application of the 2010 ACR/EULAR classification criteria for rheumatoid arthritis in Korean patients with undifferentiated arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 2012; 41:192-5. [DOI: 10.3109/03009742.2012.654816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Cho HY, Kwon JY, Kim YH, Lee KH, Kim J, Kim SY, Park YW. Comparison of nuchal translucency measurements obtained using Volume NT(TM) and two- and three-dimensional ultrasound. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2012; 39:175-180. [PMID: 21412924 DOI: 10.1002/uog.8996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the feasibility of Volume NT(TM) , a new technique that automatically archives mid-sagittal plane views and measures the maximum nuchal translucency (NT) thickness, by comparing its measurements with those made with conventional two- (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) techniques. METHODS This was a prospective study of 130 singleton pregnancies undergoing NT screening at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks of gestation. Fetuses with enlarged NT or multiple anomalies and those in the prone position were excluded. Success rate of NT measurement was assessed using Volume NT(TM) , 2D and 3D techniques. In cases in which all three techniques were successful, intra- and interobserver bias and levels of agreement for NT measurements within and between techniques were evaluated using Bland-Altman plots. RESULTS Of 130 cases enrolled into the study, 16 were excluded from analysis due to enlarged NT (n = 3), prone position (n = 2) or missing data (n = 11). Among the 114 cases analyzed, NT measurement was successful by the conventional 2D method in 95.6% (109/114) of cases and by 3D and Volume NT(TM) measurements in 103 and 93 cases, respectively. Success rate was not significantly different between methods. In 89 cases, NT values were available using all three methods. Among them, mean ± SD 2D-NT was 1.3 ± 0.4 mm, 3D-NT was 1.2 ± 0.4 mm and Volume NT(TM) was 1.3 ± 0.4 mm. The mean differences of the intra- and interobserver variability of each method were not significantly different from zero for each method. CONCLUSIONS Volume NT(TM) , a novel technique for automated NT measurement, is apparently reproducible and comparable with conventional 2D and 3D ultrasound techniques for NT measurement.
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Liang SH, Liu JK, Lee KH, Kuo YC, Kao CM. Use of specific gene analysis to assess the effectiveness of surfactant-enhanced trichloroethylene cometabolism. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2011; 198:323-330. [PMID: 22071259 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2011.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2011] [Revised: 10/09/2011] [Accepted: 10/17/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of in situ bioremediation of trichloroethylene (TCE)-contaminated groundwater using specific gene analyses under the following conditions: (1) pretreatment with biodegradable surfactants [Simple Green™ (SG) and soya lecithin (SL)] to enhance TCE desorption and dissolution, and (2) supplementation with SG, SL, and cane molasses as primary substrates to enhance the aerobic cometabolism of TCE. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), and nucleotide sequence analysis were applied to monitor the variations in specific activity-dependent enzymes and dominant microorganisms. Results show that TCE-degrading enzymes, including toluene monooxygenase, toluene dioxygenase, and phenol monooxygenase, were identified from sediment samples collected from a TCE-spill site. Results from the microcosm study show that addition of SG, SL, or cane molasses can enhance the aerobic cometabolism of TCE. The TCE degradation rates were highest in microcosms with added SL, the second highest in microcosms containing SG, and lowest in microcosms containing cane molasses. This indicates that SG and SL can serve as TCE dissolution agents and act as primary substrates for indigenous microorganisms. Four dominant microorganisms (Rhodobacter sp., Methyloversatilis sp., Beta proteobacterium sp., and Hydrogenophaga pseudoflava) observed in microcosms might be able to produce TCE-degrading enzymes for TCE cometabolic processes.
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Choi YS, Lee KH, Gillett S, Lam G. Pay-for-Performance quality incentive program – one year pilot program. BMC Health Serv Res 2011. [PMCID: PMC3238204 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-11-s1-a5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Shin SY, Jang S, Park CJ, Chi HS, Lee KH, Huh J, Seo EJ. A rare case of Lennert's type peripheral T-cell lymphoma with t(14;19)(q11.2;q13.3). Int J Lab Hematol 2011; 34:328-32. [PMID: 22122800 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-553x.2011.01385.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Although most patients with peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) show clonal rearrangement of T-cell receptor genes, few PTCLs show recurrent chromosomal abnormalities. We describe here a rare chromosomal rearrangement, t(14;19)(q11.2;q13.3), in a Lennert's lymphoma, a variant of PTCL, not otherwise specified. Sequential fluorescence in situ hybridization assays showed that the breakpoint in 19q13.3 was located distal to the BCL3 and PVRL2 genes, both of which may be candidate proto-oncogenes. These findings suggest that another gene is involved in the pathogenic characteristics observed in this patient with Lennert's lymphoma.
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Garraway SM, Turtle JD, Huie JR, Lee KH, Hook MA, Woller SA, Grau JW. Intermittent noxious stimulation following spinal cord contusion injury impairs locomotor recovery and reduces spinal brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tropomyosin-receptor kinase signaling in adult rats. Neuroscience 2011; 199:86-102. [PMID: 22027236 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2011] [Revised: 09/27/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Intermittent nociceptive stimulation following a complete transection or contused spinal cord injury (SCI) has been shown to exert several short- and long-lasting negative consequences. These include maladaptive spinal plasticity, enhanced mechanical allodynia, and impaired functional recovery of locomotor and bladder functions. The neurotrophin, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to play an important role in adaptive plasticity and also to restore functions following SCI. This suggests that the negative behavioral effects of shock are most likely related to corresponding changes in BDNF spinal levels. In this study, we investigated the cellular effects of nociceptive stimulation in contused adult rats focusing on BDNF, its receptor, tropomyosin-receptor kinase (TrkB), and the subsequent downstream signaling system. The goal was to determine whether the behavioral effect of stimulation is associated with concomitant cellular changes induced during the initial post-injury period. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to assess changes in the mRNA and/or protein levels of BDNF, TrkB, and the downstream signaling proteins calcium-calmodulin kinase II (CaMKII) and extracellular related kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) at 1 h, 24 h, and 7 days following administration of intermittent noxious shock to the tail of contused subjects. In addition, recovery of locomotor function (Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan [BBB] score) was assessed daily for the first week after injury. The results showed that, although nociceptive stimulation failed to induce any changes in gene expression at 1 h, it significantly reduced the expression of BDNF, TrkB, ERK2, and CaMKII at 24 h. In general, changes in gene expression were spatially localized to the dorsal spinal cord. In addition, locomotor recovery was impaired by shock. Evidence is also provided suggesting that shock engages a neuronal circuitry without having any negative effects on neuronal survival at 24 h. These results suggest that nociceptive activity following SCI decreases BDNF and TrkB levels, which may significantly contribute to diminished functional recovery.
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Wong KK, Chan SKW, Lam MML, Hui CLM, Hung SF, Tay M, Lee KH, Chen EYH. Cost-effectiveness of an early assessment service for young people with early psychosis in Hong Kong. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2011; 45:673-80. [PMID: 21870925 DOI: 10.3109/00048674.2011.586329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Early Assessment Service for Young People with Early Psychosis (EASY) was developed in Hong Kong in 2001 to provide a comprehensive and integrated approach for early detection and intervention for young people suffering from first episode psychosis. The present study examined the cost-effectiveness of the service over a period of 24 months compared to standard care. METHOD This is a historical control study. Sixty-five patients who presented to the EASY service in 2001 with first episode psychosis were individually matched (on age, sex and diagnosis) with 65 patients who received standard psychiatric care in a precursor service (pre-EASY) between 1999 and 2000. A retrospective cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted over a period of 24 months. The overall average cost of service utilization per patient and the effects on hospitalization rate were compared using bootstrapping analysis. Cost per point improvement in Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was also computed with sensitivity analysis. Only direct costs were analysed in the current study. RESULTS There was no significant difference in service utilization between the EASY and pre-EASY standard care groups. The cost-effectiveness acceptability curve, which was used to explore uncertainty in estimates of cost and effects, suggested that there was a probability of at least 94% that the EASY model was more cost-effective than the pre-EASY service in reducing psychiatric inpatient admissions. EASY patients also showed superior results in average cost per unit improvement in PANSS. CONCLUSIONS EASY is likely to be more cost-effective in improving outcomes, particularly in reducing hospitalization and improving clinical symptoms among young people with first episode psychosis. This study provides a perspective from the east Asian region, and supports further development of similar services, particularly in the local setting. However, further studies with a longer follow up period and larger sample size are required to verify these findings.
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Chung BI, Lee KH, Shin KS, Kim WC, Kwon DN, You RN, Lee YK, Cho K, Cho DH. REMiner: a tool for unbiased mining and analysis of repetitive elements and their arrangement structures of large chromosomes. Genomics 2011; 98:381-9. [PMID: 21803149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2011.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2011] [Revised: 06/21/2011] [Accepted: 07/15/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Repetitive elements (REs) constitute a substantial portion of the genomes of human and other species; however, the RE profiles (type, density, and arrangement) within the individual genomes have not been fully characterized. In this study, we developed an RE analysis tool, called REMiner, for a chromosome-wide investigation into the occurrence of individual REs and arrangement of clusters of REs, and REMiner's functional features were examined using the human chromosome Y. The algorithm implemented by REMiner focused on unbiased mining of REs in large chromosomes and data interface within a viewer. The data from the chromosome demonstrated that REMiner is an efficient tool in regard to its capacity for a large query size and the availability of a high-resolution viewer, featuring instant retrieval of alignment data and control of magnification and identity ratio. The chromosome-wide survey identified a diverse population of ordered RE arrangements, which may participate in the genome biology.
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Yu BY, Lee KH, Kim K, Byun DJ, Ha HP, Byun JY. Partial oxidation of dimethyl ether using the structured catalyst Rh/Al2O3/Al prepared through the anodic oxidation of aluminum. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2011; 11:6298-6305. [PMID: 22121705 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2011.4412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The partial oxidation of dimethyl ether (DME) was investigated using the structured catalyst Rh/Al2O3/Al. The porous Al2O3 layer was synthesized on the aluminum plate through anodic oxidation in an oxalic-acid solution. It was observed that about 20 nm nanopores were well developed in the Al2O3 layer. The thickness of Al2O3 layer can be adjusted by controlling the anodizing time and current density. After pore-widening and hot-water treatment, the Al2O3/Al plate was calcined at 500 degrees C for 3 h. The obtained delta-Al2O3 had a specific surface area of 160 m2/g, making it fit to be used as a catalyst support. A microchannel reactor was designed and fabricated to evaluate the catalytic activity of Rh/Al2O3/Al in the partial oxidation of DME. The structured catalyst showed an 86% maximum hydrogen yield at 450 degrees C. On the other hand, the maximum syngas yield by a pack-bed-type catalyst could be attained by using a more than fivefold Rh amount compared to that used in the structured Rh/Al2O3/Al catalyst.
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Chan SM, Chan EKW, Chu WCW, Cheung ST, Tam YH, Lee KH. Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in a newborn: a diagnostic dilemma. Hong Kong Med J 2011; 17:245-247. [PMID: 21636874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Infants with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis typically present at 2 to 4 weeks of age with nonbilious projectile vomiting. Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is exceedingly rare in newborn infants and is scarcely reported in literature. Also, the diagnostic criteria for ultrasonographic measurements in newborn infants have yet to be determined. This report is of a newborn infant with hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. The patient presented with high-volume non-bile-stained output from a nasogastric tube and a dilated gastric bubble on abdominal radiograph. Contrast study ruled out intestinal malrotation. Two ultrasound tests showed that the pyloric muscle thickness and pyloric canal length were within normal limits. Subsequent laparotomy showed a thickened pylorus and pyloromyotomy was performed. The patient showed marked improvement in feeding postoperatively. A high index of suspicion is required for newborn infants presenting with gastric outlet obstruction. Ultrasound and contrast studies provide additional information, but definitive diagnosis may only be available intra-operatively.
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Kim MH, Lee KH, Kim KU, Park HK, Kim YD, Lee MK, Park SK. Patient with positional wheezing due to endobronchial lipomatous hamartoma. Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2011; 59:188-90. [PMID: 21480147 DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1250428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Endobronchial hamartoma is a rare form of pulmonary hamartoma, and endobronchial lipomatous hamartomas are even rarer. We describe the case of a 39-year-old man who presented with a two-year history of dyspnea on exertion and wheezing over the left chest only while lying on his left side. The patient was diagnosed with endobronchial lipomatous hamartoma occluding the left main bronchus. He underwent a superior segmentectomy of the left lower lobe, which promptly relieved the dyspnea and positional wheezing. To our knowledge, fewer than 10 such cases are cited in the English literature, none of which presented with positional wheezing. This patient represents the first case of focal and positional wheezing resulting from endobronchial lipomatous hamartoma.
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Lee KH, Lee YK, Kwon DN, Chiu S, Chew V, Rah H, Kujawski G, Melhem R, Hsu K, Chung C, Greenhalgh DG, Cho K. Identification of a unique library of complex, but ordered, arrays of repetitive elements in the human genome and implication of their potential involvement in pathobiology. Exp Mol Pathol 2011; 90:300-11. [PMID: 21376035 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2011.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2011] [Accepted: 02/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 2% of the human genome is reported to be occupied by genes. Various forms of repetitive elements (REs), both characterized and uncharacterized, are presumed to make up the vast majority of the rest of the genomes of human and other species. In conjunction with a comprehensive annotation of genes, information regarding components of genome biology, such as gene polymorphisms, non-coding RNAs, and certain REs, is found in human genome databases. However, the genome-wide profile of unique RE arrangements formed by different groups of REs has not been fully characterized yet. In this study, the entire human genome was subjected to an unbiased RE survey to establish a whole-genome profile of REs and their arrangements. Due to the limitation in query size within the bl2seq alignment program (National Center for Biotechnology Information [NCBI]) utilized for the RE survey, the entire NCBI reference human genome was fragmented into 6206 units of 0.5M nucleotides. A number of RE arrangements with varying complexities and patterns were identified throughout the genome. Each chromosome had unique profiles of RE arrangements and density, and high levels of RE density were measured near the centromere regions. Subsequently, 175 complex RE arrangements, which were selected throughout the genome, were subjected to a comparison analysis using five different human genome sequences. Interestingly, three of the five human genome databases shared the exactly same arrangement patterns and sequences for all 175 RE arrangement regions (a total of 12,765,625 nucleotides). The findings from this study demonstrate that a substantial fraction of REs in the human genome are clustered into various forms of ordered structures. Further investigations are needed to examine whether some of these ordered RE arrangements contribute to the human pathobiology as a functional genome unit.
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Seo JH, Holland K, Rose D, Rozhkov L, Fujiwara H, Byars A, Arthur T, DeGrauw T, Leach JL, Gelfand MJ, Miles L, Mangano FT, Horn P, Lee KH. Multimodality imaging in the surgical treatment of children with nonlesional epilepsy. Neurology 2011; 76:41-8. [PMID: 21205694 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0b013e318204a380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the diagnostic value of individual noninvasive presurgical modalities and to study their role in surgical management of nonlesional pediatric epilepsy patients. METHODS We retrospectively studied 14 children (3-18 years) with nonlesional intractable focal epilepsy. Clinical characteristics, surgical outcome, localizing features on 3 presurgical diagnostic tests (subtraction peri-ictal SPECT coregistered to MRI [SISCOM], statistical parametric mapping [SPM] analysis of [18F] FDG-PET, magnetoencephalography [MEG]), and intracranial EEG (iEEG) were reviewed. The localization of each individual test was determined for lobar location by visual inspection. Concordance of localization between each test and iEEG was scored as follows: 2=lobar concordance; 1=hemispheric concordance; 0=discordance or nonlocalization. Total concordance score in each patient was measured by the summation of concordance scores for all 3 tests. RESULTS Seven (50%) of 14 patients were seizure-free for at least 12 months after surgery. One (7%) had only rare seizures and 6 (43%) had persistent seizures. MEG (79%, 11/14) and SISCOM (79%, 11/14) showed greater lobar concordance with iEEG than SPM-PET (13%, 3/14) (p<0.05). SPM-PET provided hemispheric lateralization (71%, 10/14) more often than lobar localization. Total concordance score tended to be greater for seizure-free patients (4.7) than for non-seizure-free patients (3.9). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that MEG and SISCOM are better tools for lobar localization than SPM analysis of FDG-PET in children with nonlesional epilepsy. A multimodality approach may improve surgical outcome as well as selection of surgical candidates in patients without MRI abnormalities.
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Yoo YE, Lee KH, Je TJ, Choi DS, Kim SK. An in-mold packaging process for plastic fluidic devices. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2011; 11:233-238. [PMID: 21446432 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2011.3287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Micro or nanofluidic devices have many channel shapes to deliver chemical solutions, body fluids or any fluids. The channels in these devices should be covered to prevent the fluids from overflowing or leaking. A typical method to fabricate an enclosed channel is to bond or weld a cover plate to a channel plate. This solid-to-solid bonding process, however, takes a considerable amount of time for mass production. In this study, a new process for molding a cover layer that can enclose open micro or nanochannels without solid-to-solid bonding is proposed and its feasibility is estimated. First, based on the design of a model microchannel, a brass microchannel master core was machined and a plastic microchannel platform was injection-molded. Using this molded platform, a series of experiments was performed for four process or mold design parameters. Some feasible conditions were successfully found to enclosed channels without filling the microchannels for the injection molding of a cover layer over the plastic microchannel platform. In addition, the bond strength and seal performance were estimated in a comparison with those done by conventional bonding or welding processes.
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171
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Lee CW, Song MJ, Lee SH, Kim JH, Lee SJ, Lee KH, Park JS, Hur SY. Clinicopathologic analysis of extramammary Paget's disease. EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 2011; 32:34-36. [PMID: 21446321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To retrospectively analyze the clinicopathologic characteristics of patients with extramammary Paget's disease who were surgically treated in a single institution. METHOD The charts of 14 patients with extramammary Paget's disease were retrospectively reviewed, and the clinicopathologic data were collected and analyzed. RESULTS From January 1990 to July 2009, 14 patients were treated at our institution. Most patients (11/14 patients) had delayed diagnosis. Two patients (14.3%) had associated malignant neoplasms. Eight of 14 patients (57.1%) had positive surgical margins; of these patients, five patients had no evidence of recurrence. In the six patients with negative surgical margins, two patients (33.3%) developed recurrence. CONCLUSIONS The diagnosis of extramammary Paget's disease is commonly delayed. Because of the possible association with other malignancies before or after the diagnosis of extramammary Paget's disease, thorough examinations are recommended. Disease recurrence is common regardless of the surgical margin status, so long-term monitoring of patients is recommended.
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Lee JY, Choi JY, Kim YH, Kim DI, Kim YW, Kim KH, Hyun SH, Lee KH, Kim BT. Characterization of congenital lymphatic and blood vascular malformations in the head and neck using blood pool scintigraphy and spect. Lymphology 2010; 43:149-157. [PMID: 21446570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the usefulness and diagnostic efficacy of blood pool (BP) scintigraphy and SPECT for characterizing congenital vascular malformations (CVMs) in the head and neck area. A total of 154 patients suspected of having head and neck CVMs underwent whole-body BP scintigraphy and head and neck BP SPECT using 99mTc-labeled red blood cells. Based on SPECT findings, CVMs were classified into lymphatic malformation/ non-(blood) vascular disease (LM/NVD, no distinct uptake), arterio-venous malformation (AVM, abnormal uptake in lesions and asymmetrically increased jugular vein uptake on ipsilateral side), venous malformation (VM, strong uptake in lesions with symmetric jugular vein uptake), and veno-lymphatic malformation (VLM, no or mild uptake on lesions with symmetric jugular vein uptake). The sensitivities and specificities of BP SPECT for diagnosing each subtype of head and neck CVM were 100% (13/13) and 97.1% (137/141) for LM/NVD, 61.1% (22/36) and 99.1% (117/118)for AVM, 91.7% (88/96) and 79.3% (46/58) for VM, and 55.6% (5/9) and 93.7% (136/145) in VLM, respectively. The overall accuracy for characterizing CVMs by head and neck BP SPECT was 83.1% (128/154). In conclusion, BP SPECT is a useful method for classifying CVMs in the head and neck area due to its high diagnostic efficacy.
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173
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Kim HC, Lee KH, Kwon YC, Kang SC, Kim DM. Development of energizing cell-free protein synthesis system from E. coli extracts. J Biotechnol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2010.09.851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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174
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Park JY, Kwon YC, Lee KH, Kim HN, Lee KY, Kim DM. Screening of optimal ribosome binding sites (RBSs) for high-level protein expression in a cell-free protein synthesis system derived from Streptomyces venezuelae. J Biotechnol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2010.09.853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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175
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Lee KY, Kwon YC, Lee KH, Byun JY, Kim HN, Kim DM. A cell-free protein synthesis system derived from the extract of Streptomyces venezuelae. J Biotechnol 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2010.09.852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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176
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Cho H, Lee KH, Colquhoun AN, Evans SA. Invasive oral aspergillosis in a patient with acute myeloid leukaemia. Aust Dent J 2010; 55:214-8. [PMID: 20604767 DOI: 10.1111/j.1834-7819.2010.01219.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillosis (a fungal infection by an organism of the Aspergillus species) of the oral cavity is an uncommon condition which most frequently occurs in immunocompromised patients, such as those with haematological malignancies. In such patients, prolonged neutropenia secondary to chemotherapeutic agents enables the spread of invasive aspergillosis, which is unaffected by anatomical barriers. Early detection and treatment of the condition is essential to avoid more serious complications, such as disseminated infection, which results in increased morbidity and mortality. This case report describes a patient with acute myeloid leukaemia who developed localized invasive Aspergillus flavus of the palate. High-dose antifungal therapy was instituted along with surgical removal of the involved tissues. Aspergillosis of the palate was successfully eradicated with no long-term ill effects from the treatment. Management of invasive aspergillosis includes early aggressive antifungal medication combined with surgical removal of the involved tissues.
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Kim TH, Lee JJ, Chung SH, Lee HH, Lee KH, Choi KY, Lee SH. Efficacy of assessment in fetal behaviour by four dimensional ultrasonography. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2010; 30:439-43. [PMID: 20604642 DOI: 10.3109/01443615.2010.486084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to examine the behaviour and facial expressions of the fetus after birth by 4-dimensional (4-D) ultrasonography, and the association of the biophysical profile (BPP) with the Doppler scale. A total of 40 singleton pregnancies were included. All 4-D ultrasonographies were performed using the Accuvix XQ (Medison Co. Ltd, Seoul, Republic of Korea). The BPP and Doppler were performed on gravidas using 2-D ultrasonography. We recorded the newborn while awake no later than 48 h after delivery. The most frequent movement in fetuses and newborn was yawning and isolated arm movements, respectively. Sucking, swallowing (r = 0.78) and isolated limb movements (r = 0.72) in fetuses as observed by 4-D ultrasonography had a relationship with isolated limb movements in the newborn. Because of the limitation of ultrasonography, an overall comparison could not be made. There was a high correlation between sucking, swallowing, and isolated limb movements in fetuses and newborn.
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Rasalkar DD, Chu WCW, Cheng FWT, Lee V, Lee KH, Li CK. An institutional review of paediatric haemangiomas: prevalence, imaging features, and outcomes. Hong Kong Med J 2010; 16:334-340. [PMID: 20889996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the demographic data, imaging features, and outcomes of paediatric haemangiomas. DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING University teaching hospital, Hong Kong. PATIENTS A total of 58 children diagnosed with haemangioma between 1998 and 2007. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Demographic data, imaging features, type of treatment received, and outcomes. RESULTS In all, 19 (33%) of these patients were males and 39 (67%) were females. Most of the lesions (64%) were in the head and neck region. Three (5%) of the patients were complicated by the Kasabach-Merritt syndrome; 21 underwent no imaging, and 37 had ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging. In the majority (85%), ultrasound of the lesions revealed mixed echogenicity and/or phleboliths with variable colour Doppler patterns. On magnetic resonance imaging, most (87%) of the lesions were T1 iso- to hypo-intense and T2 hyperintense with slight heterogeneous signalling and revealed presence of central flow voids (vascular channels) or low-signal areas (fibrous tissue or calcification). In all, 85% appeared homogeneous while 15% showed heterogeneous enhancement. Of 58 patients, 39 (67%) patients received conservative treatment; the lesions resolved spontaneously in 34 (87%) patients, enlarged in 2 (5%), and remained static in 3 (8%). Interventions were directed at the lesions in 19 patients. These entailed surgical excision (n=7), argon laser therapy (n=3), and medical treatment (n=9). Of the latter patients, treatment included: systemic steroids (n=5), interferon (n=1), steroids and interferon (n=1), vincristine (n=1), and sclerotherapy (n=1). Partial or complete resolution of the lesions ensued in 15 (79%) of the patients, while their size remained static in four (21%). CONCLUSION Though ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging features varied, the diagnosis of most haemangiomas could be confidently made by imaging. About 33% of haemangiomas underwent surgical/medical interventions, for which imaging was useful to monitor post-treatment progress.
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Lee KH, Cho JH, Choi IS, Park HM, Lee MG, Choi BJ, Jang IS. Pregnenolone sulfate enhances spontaneous glutamate release by inducing presynaptic Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release. Neuroscience 2010; 171:106-16. [PMID: 20816925 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2010.07.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2010] [Revised: 07/27/2010] [Accepted: 07/27/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Pregnenolone sulfate (PS) acts as an excitatory neuromodulator and has a variety of neuropharmacological actions, such as memory enhancement and convulsant effects. In the present study, we investigated the effect of PS on glutamatergic spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) in acutely isolated dentate gyrus (DG) hilar neurons by use of a conventional whole-cell patch-clamp technique. PS significantly increased sEPSC frequency in a concentration-dependent manner without affecting the current amplitude, suggesting that PS acts presynaptically to increase the probability of spontaneous glutamate release. However, known molecular targets of PS, such as α7 nicotinic ACh, NMDA, σ1 receptors and voltage-dependent Ca(2+) channels, were not responsible for the PS-induced increase in sEPSC frequency. In contrast, the PS-induced increase in sEPSC frequency was completely occluded in a Ca(2+)-free external solution, and was significantly reduced by either the depletion of presynaptic Ca(2+) stores or the blockade of ryanodine receptors, suggesting that PS elicits Ca(2+)-induced Ca(2+) release (CICR) within glutamatergic nerve terminals. In addition, the PS-induced increase in sEPSC frequency was completely occluded by transient receptor potential (TRP) channel blockers. These data suggest that PS increases spontaneous glutamate release onto acutely isolated hilar neurons via presynaptic CICR, which was triggered by the influx of Ca(2+) through presynaptic TRP channels. The PS-induced modulation of excitatory transmission onto hilar neurons could have a broad impact on the excitability of hilar neurons and affect the pathophysiological functions mediated by the hippocampus.
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180
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Lee KH, Chang PC, Lie DT, Koh JS, Ong KL. An unusual case of knee locking. Singapore Med J 2010; 51:e140-e142. [PMID: 20848054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Knee locking is an incapacitating condition that requires urgent orthopaedic intervention. The most common cause is meniscal injury, followed by torn anterior cruciate ligament, osteochondral loose bodies and foreign bodies in the joint space. This report describes a patient who had an unusual case of left knee locking. After clinical examination and radiological investigations, the provisional diagnosis was a lateral meniscal tear, which was not visible on magnetic resonance imaging. Diagnostic arthroscopy of the left knee revealed a 1-cm yellowish lump on the medial meniscus, and the histology revealed pigmented villonodular synovitis. The menisci and cruciate ligaments were intact.
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Li J, Ang XF, Lee KH, Romanato F, Wong CC. In-situ monitoring of the thermal desorption of alkanethiols with surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy (SPRS). JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2010; 10:4624-4628. [PMID: 21128468 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2010.1685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Thermal desorption investigations on self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) had previously been carried out using techniques such as thermal desorption spectroscopy (TDS), scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and X-ray photo-electron spectroscopy (XPS). In this paper, the thermal dissociation of alkanethiols (CnH(2n + 1)SH) at various chain lengths (n= 6, 12, 18) on sputtered gold layers was monitored in-situ using the Kretschmann surface plasmon resonance configuration on a spectroscopic ellipsometer. We found that the longest alkanethiol (C18) exhibits the greatest thermal stability, manifested by the least amount of angular shift, during heating, in the resonant spectral features. Predictions of desorption temperatures from SPRS for the longer chain thiols are in good agreement with XPS measurements.
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Lee KH, Kim SY, Jung JH, Kim J. Proteomic analysis of hyphae-specific proteins that are expressed differentially in cakem1/cakem1 mutant strains of Candida albicans. J Microbiol 2010; 48:365-71. [PMID: 20571955 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-010-9155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 02/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The yeast-to-hyphal transition is a major virulence factor in the fungal pathogen Candida albicans. Mutations in the CaKEM1 gene, which encodes a 5'-3' exoribonuclease responsible for mRNA degradation, show a defect in hyphal growth. We applied two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to identify hyphae-specific proteins that have altered expressions in the presence of the cakem1 mutation. Eight proteins, Eno1, Eps1, Fba1, Imh3, Lpd1, Met6, Pdc11, and Tsa1 were upregulated during hyphal transition in wild-type but not in cakem1/cakem1 mutant cells. A second group of proteins, Idh1, Idh2, and Ssb1, showed increased levels of expression in cakem1/cakem1 mutant cells when compared to wild-type cells. Overexpression of Lpd1, a component of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, caused slight hyperfilamentation in a wild-type strain and suppressed the filamentation defect of the cakem1 mutation. The Ssb1 protein, which is a potential heat shock protein, and the Imh3 protein, which is a putative enzyme in GMP biosynthesis also showed the filamentation-associated phenotypes.
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183
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Lee JW, Lee KH, Park KY, Maeng SK. Hydrogenotrophic denitrification in a packed bed reactor: effects of hydrogen-to-water flow rate ratio. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2010; 101:3940-3946. [PMID: 20144861 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2010.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2009] [Revised: 01/04/2010] [Accepted: 01/09/2010] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogen dissolution and hydrogenotrophic denitrification performance were investigated in a lab-scale packed bed reactor (PBR) by varying the hydrogen flow rate and hydraulic retention time (HRT). The denitrification performance was enhanced by increasing the hydrogen flow rate and HRT as a result of high dissolved hydrogen concentration (0.39mg/L) and utilization efficiencies (79%). In this study, the hydrogen-to-water flow rate ratio (Q(g)/Q(w)) was found to be a new operating factor representing the two parameters of hydrogen flow rate and HRT. Hydrogen dissolution and denitrification efficiency were nonlinearly and linearly correlated with the Q(g)/Q(w), respectively. Based on its excellent linear correlation with denitrification efficiency, Q(g)/Q(w) should be greater than 2.3 to meet the WHO's guideline of nitrate nitrogen for drinking water. This study demonstrates that Q(g)/Q(w) is a simple and robust factor to optimize hydrogen-sparged bioreactors for hydrogenotrophic denitrification.
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184
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Chung US, Kim JH, Seo WS, Lee KH. Tendon transfer or tendon graft for ruptured finger extensor tendons in rheumatoid hands. J Hand Surg Eur Vol 2010; 35:279-82. [PMID: 19687080 DOI: 10.1177/1753193409339942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the clinical outcome of tendon reconstruction using tendon graft or tendon transfer and the parameters related to clinical outcome in 51 wrists of 46 patients with rheumatoid arthritis with finger extensor tendon ruptures. At a mean follow-up of 5.6 years, the mean metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint extension lag was 8 degrees (range, 0-45) and the mean visual analogue satisfaction scale was 74 (range, 10-100). Clinical outcome did not differ significantly between tendon grafting and tendon transfer. The MP joint extension lag correlated with the patient's satisfaction score, but the pulp-to-palm distance did not correlate with patient satisfaction. We conclude that both tendon grafting and tendon transfer are reliable reconstruction methods for ruptured finger extensor tendons in rheumatoid hands.
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185
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Lee KH, Lee JY, Kwon YH, Ryu SY, Kang TW, Yoo CH, Kim TW. Orientational relationships and atomic arrangements of GaN nanorods grown on Al2O3 (0001) substrates by using hydride vapor phase epitaxy. JOURNAL OF NANOSCIENCE AND NANOTECHNOLOGY 2010; 10:3435-3439. [PMID: 20358973 DOI: 10.1166/jnn.2010.2327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed that the one-dimensional GaN nanorods were formed on Al2O3 (0001) substrates by using hydride vapor phase epitaxy without a catalyst. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern and high-resolution TEM (HRTEM) results showed that GaN nanorods grown on Al2O3 (0001) substrates had crystalline wurzite structures and (0001) preferential orientation. The morphologies of GaN nanorods were affected by the flow rates of the source materials. The orientational relationships between the GaN nanorods and the Al2O3 substrates were (0001)GaN perpendicular (0001) Al2O3 and [0110]GaN perpendicular [1120] Al2O3. Cross-sectional and plan-view atomic arrangements of the fully relaxed interfacial region are described on the basis of the TEM, the SAED pattern, and the HRTEM results.
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186
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Shi Q, Shih CCY, Lee KH. Novel anti-prostate cancer curcumin analogues that enhance androgen receptor degradation activity. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2010; 9:904-12. [PMID: 19663790 DOI: 10.2174/187152009789124655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2009] [Accepted: 07/04/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The androgen receptor (AR) plays a crucial role in the physiological and pathological functions of androgen. As a transcription factor, the AR modulates androgen activity by regulating the transcription of target genes that are involved in numerous physiological functions and pathological disorders, such as acne vulgaris, androgenetic alopecia, benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH), and prostate cancers. Although many natural and synthetic curcumin analogues have been reported to possess anticancer activity through a common cytotoxic property against proliferating tumor cells, none has been reported to inhibit cancer cell growth through a more specific mechanism or target in the cancer cells. Recently, new curcumin analogues were studied extensively regarding their synthesis, structure-activity (i.e., anticancer activity) relationships, and mechanism of action. These compounds, such as ASC-J9 and its analogues (3 and 4), have now been shown to inhibit prostate cancer proliferation through a novel mechanism of enhancing AR degradation.
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Ji EY, Kwack HS, Moon JM, Lee KH, Park TC. "Can laparoscopy really complete full surgical staging?" A case of early recurrence and malignant transformation of borderline ovarian tumor. EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 2010; 31:449-451. [PMID: 20882893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian borderline tumor (BOT) with noninvasive implants traditionally is considered to be non-aggressive. Recurrences are delayed and transformations to high-grade carcinoma are rarely documented. We report on a patient with BOT with early recurrence and high-grade carcinoma transformation in a short interval after complete laparoscopic staging. A 27-year-old unmarried woman presented with a 26 cm in size ruptured left ovarian mass. Laparoscopic left salpingo-oophorectomy with right ovarian biopsies, multiple peritoneal biopsies, omental biopsy and washing cytology were performed. FIGO Stage I ovarian serous borderline tumor with microinvasion was confirmed. About ten months later, a 15 cm in size left BOT recurred and was resected by laparoscopic cystectomy including staging surgery. Seven months after the second surgery, we found a pelvic mass by sonogram and elevated CA125. A third diagnostic laparoscopy revealed invasive serous carcinoma with multiple peritoneal implants. In spite of radical surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy, the patient died of a progressive metastatic liver tumor. A case of early recurrence with malignant transformation of BOT is presented together with a brief review.
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188
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Lee SH, Kim J, Kim JH, Lee KH, Park JS, Hur SY. Malignant mixed mullerian tumor of the cervix including components of a rhabdomyosarcoma: case report and literature review. EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 2010; 31:462-466. [PMID: 20882897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Malignant mixed mesodermal tumors (MMMTs) are composed of carcinomatous and sarcomatous components and have an aggressive metastatic potential, resulting in a poor prognosis. MMMTs of gynecologic origin typically arise from either the ovary or the uterus, and MMMTs of the cervix are extremely rare. Due to the rarity of MMMTs arising from the cervix, there is no consensus regarding treatment, prognosis, and outcome; however, aggressive surgical cytoreduction, combined with adjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, is recommended as the treatment of choice for MMMTs of the cervix. Cervical MMMTs are more often confined to the uterus at the time of diagnosis and frequently have non-glandular epithelial components. For these reasons, MMMTs of the cervix may have a better prognosis compared to the uterine counterparts. A case of an immunohistochemically confirmed primary MMMT of the cervix, including components of a rhabdomyosarcoma, is reported.
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189
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Lee KH, Chou HJ. An interesting case of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation. THE NEW ZEALAND DENTAL JOURNAL 2009; 105:128-130. [PMID: 20000192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Acute temporomandibular joint dislocation is an infrequent presentation to the emergency department or to dental practitioners. It may be a rare complication of dental treatment. Recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation occurs in individuals with certain anatomical abnormalities or systemic conditions. This paper reports an unusual presentation of recurrent temporomandibular joint dislocation and outlines some of the surgical techniques used in managing this condition.
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190
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Mou JWC, Tang PMY, Chan KW, Tam YH, Lee KH. Imperforate hymen: cause of lower abdominal pain in teenage girls. Singapore Med J 2009; 50:e378-e379. [PMID: 19960149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Imperforate hymen is a relatively rare congenital anomaly. However, it is not an uncommon cause of lower abdominal pain presenting in teenage girls. Without careful history taking and thorough examination, the condition can be missed easily. We report an imperforate hymen presenting as abdominal pain in three teenage girls aged 12, 12 and 13 years, respectively, within a six-month period. The presentation was reviewed and the various types of hymenotomy were discussed.
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191
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Lee KH, Yamaguchi A, Rashid H, Kadomura K, Yasumoto S, Matsuyama M. Germ cell degeneration in high-temperature treated pufferfish, Takifugu rubripes. Sex Dev 2009; 3:225-32. [PMID: 19752602 DOI: 10.1159/000228723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2008] [Accepted: 01/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Exogenous factors such as temperature, social behavior, and salinity play a crucial role during the critical sensitive period of sex differentiation in many vertebrates. In fishes, amphibians, and reptiles temperature treatment is known to induce all-male (or female) individuals, and genes related to sex differentiation have been studied. The Japanese pufferfish, Takifugu rubripes, possesses the most compact genome among vertebrates and has immense potential for studies focusing on comparative genome analysis. In this study, we describe gonadal morphology and vasa (germ cell marker) and dmrt1 (Sertoli cell marker) expression on a molecular level in relation to the development of temperature-treated pufferfish. To investigate the relationship between temperature and gonadal development, pufferfish were exposed to high-temperature conditions (32 degrees C) during early gonadal development. Morphological observations showed that this high-temperature treatment did not influence sexual differentiation as determined by ovarian cavity characteristics; however, high-temperature treatment induces gonadal degeneration that is devoid of germ cells. RT-PCR results revealed no vasa expression within germ cell-degenerated gonads. In situ hybridization results showed that dmrt1 was expressed in somatic cells of germ cell-degenerated ovaries. These results suggest that high-temperature treatment during early gonadal development induces germ cell degeneration and masculinization of ovarian somatic cells in pufferfish.
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Lee KH, Omura Y, Lee LC, Wu CS. Nonlinear saturation of cyclotron maser instability associated with energetic ring-beam electrons. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2009; 103:105101. [PMID: 19792324 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.103.105101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2008] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We study the cyclotron maser instability (CMI) driven by an energetic ring-beam distribution by a particle simulation to explain possible generation mechanisms of intense radiation phenomena observed in space. The main objective is to understand the nonlinear processes that control saturation of the emission process. Our study reveals new issues that have been overlooked in past literature. It is found that electrostatic wave modes excited by the electron beam instability compete with the electromagnetic waves excited by the CMI. Nonlinear effects of these electrostatic modes tend to redistribute the energy of the energetic electrons and make the physics more complicated. The CMI can be much less effective in a realistic case than it is anticipated theoretically.
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193
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Min JH, Kim HJ, Kim BJ, Lee KW, Sunwoo IN, Kim SM, Kim BJ, Kim SH, Park MS, Waters P, Vincent A, Sung JJ, Lee KH. Brain abnormalities in Sjogren syndrome with recurrent CNS manifestations: association with neuromyelitis optica. Mult Scler 2009; 15:1069-76. [DOI: 10.1177/1352458509106228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives Optic neuritis or longitudinally extensive myelitis in Sjogren syndrome (SS) suggests a neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). However, brain abnormalities of SS remain to be elucidated for the association with neuromyelitis optica (NMO). Methods Twelve primary SS patients (all women, 42 ± 13.2 years) who had recurrent central nervous system (CNS) manifestations with brain involvement were retrospectively identified. Brain MRI, and neurologic and serologic findings were analyzed with the measurement of anti-aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-Ab). Results All patients showed brain lesions characteristic of NMO as follows: 1) the involved sites adjacent to the third and fourth ventricles and in the posterior limb of the internal capsule, 2) unique configurations, such as the longitudinal course from the internal capsule to the midbrain, large cerebral or cerebellar lesions over 3 cm, and cavity-like formations. AQP4-Ab was positive in six of eight patients tested, and all the seropositive patients showed lesions with increased diffusion, suggestive of vasogenic edema. Four patients met the revised criteria of NMO, and nine had features of NMOSDs. Of the remaining three patients showing only brain involvement, one had AQP4-Ab. Conclusions This study demonstrates that SS patients with recurrent CNS involvement have brain abnormalities characteristic of NMO and AQP4-Ab in Korea. The presence of AQP4-Ab in one SS patient with only brain involvement may suggest that the coexistence of NMO should be explored in SS patients with recurrent CNS manifestations, even without optic neuritis or myelitis.
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194
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Won CH, Seo PG, Park YM, Yang JM, Lee KH, Sung KJ, Park CW, Kim DW, Chang HS, Won YH, Kim KH. A multicenter trial of the efficacy and safety of 0.03% tacrolimus ointment for atopic dermatitis in Korea. J DERMATOL TREAT 2009; 15:30-4. [PMID: 14754647 DOI: 10.1080/09546630310020812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atopic dermatitis is a chronically relapsing, common inflammatory skin disease, which significantly affects quality of life negatively in many respects. Topical steroids are the mainstay of atopic dermatitis treatment but they carry the risk of local side effects. A topical formulation of tacrolimus, a macrolide calcineurin inhibitor, has recently been developed. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 0.03% tacrolimus ointment for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in Korea. METHODS An open, non-comparative, multi-center study with 4 weeks' follow-up was performed. A total of 180 patients (aged 2-57 years old) were enrolled. Tacrolimus ointment (0.03%) was applied to all involved areas twice daily. Efficacy was evaluated by an investigator's global assessment, the eczema area and severity index score, and by the patient's assessment of pruritus and clinical response at baseline, and after weeks 1, 2 and 4. Dermatology life quality index (DLQI), children's DLQI (CDLQI) and toddler's DLQI were assessed at baseline and at week 4. The safety assessment included monitoring all adverse events and clinical laboratory values. RESULTS All efficacy parameters were improved. The mean EASI (eczema area and severity index) score was 19.7 at baseline and reduced to 8.0 at the end of the study. Moderate improvement was observed by the investigator's global assessment after 4 weeks' treatment. A marked decrease of pruritus was observed, and mild or moderate improvement was observed by patients' global assessments after the treatment period. Significant benefits in terms of quality of life in adults and children with atopic dermatitis were obtained. The most common adverse events associated with tacrolimus treatment were transient skin burning sensation (45.3%) and pruritus (41.6%) at the site of application. CONCLUSION 0.03% tacrolimus ointment should be considered effective and safe in both Korean children and adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.
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195
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Romanato F, Lee KH, Kang HK, Ruffato G, Wong CC. Sensitivity enhancement in grating coupled surface plasmon resonance by azimuthal control. OPTICS EXPRESS 2009; 17:12145-12154. [PMID: 19582129 DOI: 10.1364/oe.17.012145] [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
We present a method for improving the sensing capability of grating coupled surface plasmon resonance (GCSPR) sensors. The grating is rotated azimuthally (phi) until the excitation of double surface plasmon polaritions (SPPs) by a single wavelength is possible. Close to this condition, further tuning of the incident wavelength will merge the double SPPs into a multi-SPP resonance which is angularly broad but spectrally sharp. This is the condition where the momentum vector of the propagating SPP is perpendicular to the incident light momentum. We demonstrate this sensitivity enhancement on a Au grating surface using a dodecanethiol (C12) self-assembled monolayer (SAM). Using this method, a shift in resonance angle as large as 3 degrees can be observed. The simulated sensitivity of this method shows that a sensitivity up to 800 degrees /RIU is achievable, which is one order of magnitude greater than that in a conventional fixed grating (phi = 0 degrees ) as well as the prism-coupled Kretschmann configuration.
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196
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Lee KH, Schneider W, NcHugo M, Goldin P, Siegle GJ. Emotional valence modulates relationships of amygdala and periaqueductal gray (PAG) activity. Neuroimage 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1053-8119(09)72024-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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197
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Kim YH, Choi JY, Kim YW, Kim DI, Do YS, Hwang JH, Hyun SH, Lee KH, Kim BT. Characterization of congenital vascular malformation in the extremities using whole body blood pool scintigraphy and lymphscintigraphy. Lymphology 2009; 42:77-84. [PMID: 19725272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical usefulness of combined whole body blood pool scintigraphy (WBBPS) and lymphscintigraphy (LS) in the characterization of patients with congenital vascular malformations (CVMs) of the extremities. Subjects included 134 patients who underwent Tc-99m RBC WBBPS and Tc-99m filtered tin colloid (or antimony sulfur colloid) LS on initial diagnosis. Scintigraphic results were interpreted as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), venolymphatic malformations (VLMs), lymphatic malformations (LMs), and venous malformations (VMs). Final diagnosis of the type of vascular malformation was determined by physical examination, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), angiography, duplex ultrasonography, and/or biopsy results. The final diagnosis demonstrated that 14 of the study subjects had an AVM, 29 had a HLM, 20 had a LM, and 71 had a VM. The sensitivity of WBBPS and LS in the characterization of CVM was 85.7% (12/14) for AVMs, 96.6% (28/29) for VLMs, 95.0% (19/20) for LMs, and 88.7% (63/71) for VMs. The specificity was 100% for AVMs (120/120), 91.4% for VLMs (96/105), 99.1% for LMs (113/114), and 98.4% for VMs (62/63). The overall accuracy of WBBPS and LS was 91.0% (122/134). Our results show that combination of WBBPS with LS can characterize extremity CVMs in patients with high diagnostic accuracy, and may thus be useful for making optimal treatment decisions.
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198
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Lee KH, Shelat VG, Low HC, Ho KY, Diddapur RK. Recurrent pancreatitis secondary to pancreatic ascariasis. Singapore Med J 2009; 50:e218-9. [PMID: 19551301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Ascaris lumbricoides infestations are endemic in tropical countries. Ascaris lumbricoides can occasionally cause biliary obstruction and result in obstructive jaundice or pancreatitis. We present a 34-year-old Bangladeshi woman with biliary ascariasis, resulting in recurrent pancreatitis. Her diagnosis was made with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography performed during an acute attack of pain.
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199
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Yoon YS, Lee KH, Han HS, Cho JY, Ahn KS. Patency of splenic vessels after laparoscopic spleen and splenic vessel-preserving distal pancreatectomy. Br J Surg 2009; 96:633-40. [DOI: 10.1002/bjs.6609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
This study evaluated the short- and long-term patency of preserved splenic vessels after laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy (SPDP) with preservation of the splenic vessels.
Methods
This single-centre retrospective study included all patients who had undergone splenic vessel-preserving laparoscopic SPDP between 2004 and 2007. The patency of the splenic vessels was assessed by abdominal computed tomography and classified into three grades according to the degree of stenosis.
Results
Twenty-two patients were included. The preoperative patency of the splenic artery and vein was normal in 20 and 19 patients respectively. Normal patency of the splenic artery and vein was observed in 16 and five patients respectively within 1 month of surgery, and in 19 and nine patients 6 months or more after operation. Nine of ten patients with complete splenic vein occlusion developed a collateral circulation in the late postoperative phase. Splenic perfusion was well preserved in all patients.
Conclusion
Splenic vessel-preserving laparoscopic SPDP has the short-term benefit of good perfusion to the spleen. In the long term, there is a risk of left-sided portal hypertension if the splenic vein becomes occluded after surgery.
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Lee JH, Cho SB, Bang D, Oh SH, Ahn KJ, Kim J, Park YB, Lee SK, Lee KH. Human anti-alpha-enolase antibody in sera from patients with Behçet's disease and rheumatologic disorders. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2009; 27:S63-S66. [PMID: 19796536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE alpha-Enolase is a target antigen of IgM-type anti-endothelial cell antibody in patients with Behçet's disease (BD). The objective of this study was to assess the reactivity of serum anti-alpha-enolase antibodies in BD and in other rheumatologic diseases, and to evaluate the clinical significance of serum anti-alpha-enolase antibodies in BD. METHODS Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblotting were used to examine serum samples from patients with BD (n=100), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (n=50), systemic sclerosis (n=21), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (n=20), Takayasu's arteritis (n=20), dermatomyositis (n=17), mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) (n=11), and samples from healthy volunteer donors (n=23). The medical records of patients with BD were reviewed to investigate their clinical characteristics. RESULTS Specific positive signals against recombinant human alpha-enolase were detected by IgM ELISA of serum samples from 56 of the 100 BD patients (56.0%), 24 of the 50 SLE patients (48.0%), 15 of the 21 systemic sclerosis patients (71.4%), 13 of the 20 RA patients (65.0%), 10 of the 20 Takayasu's arteritis patients (50.0%), 9 of the 17 dermatomyositis patients (52.9%), and 5 of the 11 MCTD patients (45.5%). The number of BD patients with vascular lesions was significantly higher in the anti-alpha-enolase antibody positive group than in the negative group (p=0.027). CONCLUSION We demonstrated the reactivities of serum anti-alpha-enolase antibodies in BD and other rheumatologic diseases with moderate specificity and also found that serum anti-alpha-enolase antibodies in BD can be associated with vascular system involvement.
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