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Chen SC, Chen W, Hsu WH, Yu YH, Shih CM. Role of pleural fluid C-reactive protein concentration in discriminating uncomplicated parapneumonic pleural effusions from complicated parapneumonic effusion and empyema. Lung 2006; 184:141-5. [PMID: 16902838 DOI: 10.1007/s00408-005-2573-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2005] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine whether pleural fluid C-reactive protein (CRP) is useful in distinguishing complicated parapneumonic pleural effusion (CPPE) and empyema from uncomplicated parapneumonic pleural effusions (UPPE). A total of 69 consecutive patients with parapneumonic effusions were enrolled in the study: 29 with UPPE, 29 with CPPE, and 11 with empyema. Concentrations of standard biochemical parameters together with CRP in the pleural fluid were measured using an immunoturbidimetric assay. Pleural CRP was significantly higher in CPPE (11.6 mg/dl) and in empyema (12.2 mg/dl) than in UPPE (3.9 mg/dl). A cutoff value of 8.7 mg/dl for pleural CRP in the diagnosis of CPPE and empyema resulted in a sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.80, 0.97 and 0.94, respectively. Traditional lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) > or = 1000 U/L and glucose < or = 60 mg/dl can differentiate CPPE and empyema from UPPE, with the sensitivity, specificity, and AUC achieving 0.75/0.60.1.00/1.00,0.95/0.22, respectively. However, for the detection of CPPE and empyema, the combination of pleural fluid CRP > or = 8.7 mg/dl and LDH > or = 1000 U/L was valuable in achieving a sensitivity, specificity, and AUC of 0.97/1,00/0.95. This study suggests that measurement of pleural CRP can be useful in the workup of patients with a parapneumonic effusion in order to differentiate CPPE from UPPE.
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Zhang AL, Zhang TY, Luo JX, Chen SC, Guan WJ, Fu CY, Peng SQ, Li HL. Constitutive expression of human angiostatin in Pichia pastoris by high-density cell culture. J Ind Microbiol Biotechnol 2006; 34:117-22. [PMID: 16988811 DOI: 10.1007/s10295-006-0175-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2006] [Accepted: 08/20/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
A high-density cell culture method to produce human angiostatin has been successfully established by constitutive expression of the protein in Pichia pastoris. The fermentation was carried out in a 20 l bioreactor with a 10 l working volume, using a high-density cell culture method by continuously feeding with 50% glycerol-0.8% PTM4 to the growing culture for 60 h at 30 degrees C. Dissolved oxygen level was maintained at 25-30% and pH was controlled at 5 by the addition of 7 M NH4OH. Angiostatin was constitutively expressed during the fermentation by linking its expression to the P. pastoris constitutive GAP promoter (pGAP). But after 36 h of fermentation, the peak biomass growth was 305 as measured by absorption of 600 nm, while the peak angiostatin expression was 176 mg/l. Similar to the product expressed from inducible system [24], angiostatin produced from constitutive system also inhibited the angiogenesis on the CAM and suppressed the growth of B16 melanoma in C57BL/6J mouse. The above results suggest that GAP promoter is more efficient than AOX1 promoter for the expression of angiostatin in P. pastoris by shake flask culture or high-density cell fermentation and is likely to be an alternative to AOX1 promoter in large-scale expression of angiostatin and other heterologous proteins.
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Yu WL, Chen SC, Hung SW, Chuang YC, Chung JG, Chen IC, Wu LT. Genetic association of blaSHV-5 with transposable elements IS26 and IS5 in Klebsiella pneumoniae from Taiwan. Clin Microbiol Infect 2006; 12:806-9. [PMID: 16842580 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2006.01488.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A cloned 5,248-bp EcoRI fragment from the Klebsiella pneumoniae transferable plasmid pKP53 (> 70 kb) containing bla(SHV-5) was sequenced. Insertion sequences IS26 and IS5 were found downstream from bla(SHV-5). The DNA sequences of the genetic environment surrounding bla(SHV-5) were homologous to plasmid p1658/97 from Escherichia coli, containing a truncated recF gene and a truncated deoR gene upstream and downstream from bla(SHV-5), respectively. RecF may be involved in bla(SHV-5) translocation to the plasmid by RecF-dependent recombination. This novel genetic environment may be associated with the successful proliferation and/or expression of SHV-5 in K. pneumoniae strains from Taiwan.
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Chen SC, Xu SC, Diau E, Lin MC. A Computational Study on the Kinetics and Mechanism for the Unimolecular Decomposition of o-Nitrotoluene. J Phys Chem A 2006; 110:10130-4. [PMID: 16913688 DOI: 10.1021/jp0623591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The kinetics and mechanism for the unimolecular decomposition of o-nitrotoluene (o-CH(3)C(6)H(4)NO(2)) have been studied computationally at the G2M(RCC, MP2)//B3LYP/6-311G(d, p) level of theory in conjunction with rate constant predictions with RRKM and TST calculations. The results of the calculations reveal 10 decomposition channels for o-nitrotoluene and its six isomeric intermediates, among them four channels give major products: CH(3)C(6)H(4) + NO(2), C(6)H(4)C(H)ON (anthranil) + H(2)O, CH(3)C(6)H(4)O (o-methyl phenoxy) + NO, and C(6)H(4)C(H(2))NO + OH. The predicted rate constants in the 500-2000 K temperature range indicate that anthranil production, taking place initially by intramolecular H-abstraction from the CH(3) group by NO(2) followed by five-membered ring formation and dehydration, dominates at temperatures below 1000 K, whereas NO(2) elimination becomes predominant above 1100 K and CH(3)C(6)H(4)O formation by the nitro-nitrite isomerization/decomposition process accounts for only 5-11% of the total product yield in the middle temperature range 800-1300 K. The branching ratio for CH(2)C(6)H(4)NO formation by the decomposition process of CH(2)C(6)H(4)N(O)OH is negligible. The predicted high-pressure-limit rate constants with the rate expression of 4.10 x 10(17) exp[-37000/T] s(-1) for the NO(2) elimination channel and 9.09 x 10(12) exp[-25800/T] s(-1) for the H(2)O elimination channel generally agree reasonably with available experimental data. The predicted high-pressure-limit rate constants for the NO and OH elimination channels are represented as 1.49 x 10(14) exp[-30000/T] and 1.31 x 10(15) exp[-38000/T] s(-1), respectively.
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Chen SC, Lin CS, Liang SH, Chuang JY. Detection of gentoxicity of benzidine and its derivatives with the Escherichia coli DJ 702 lacZ reversion mutagenicity assay. Lett Appl Microbiol 2006; 43:22-6. [PMID: 16834716 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765x.2006.01917.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The feasibility of Escherichia coli DJ 702 lacZ mutagenicity assay to detect genotoxicity of benzidine and its derivatives was evaluated. METHODS AND RESULTS DJ 702 strain was grown overnight at 30 degrees C in Luria-Bertani (LB) medium containing some components, such as chloramphenicol, ampicillin, delta-aminolevulinic acid, isopropyl-beta-d-thiogalactoside, and trace element mix. The mixtures of a bacterial culture and tested chemical at indicated doses were incubated at 30 degrees C for 30 min. Subsequently, 2 ml of molten top agar was added and the resulting mixtures were immediately poured onto a minimal lactose (ML) plate. Plates were incubated at 30 degrees C for 48 h. The number of colonies was determined by visual scoring. In this study, results showed that all the tested chemicals were mutagenic to DJ 702 strain. CONCLUSIONS E. coli lac mutagenicity assay using DJ 702 strain can detect the mutagenicity of benzidine and its derivatives. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY We detected the mutagenicity of benzidine and its derivatives in E. coli lac mutagenicity assay using DJ 702, indicating that this assay may be used to detect benzidine and its derivatives in a powerful, sensitive, and convenient mutagenesis assay.
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Kao CM, Chen KF, Liu JK, Chou SM, Chen SC. Enzymatic degradation of nitriles by Klebsiella oxytoca. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2006; 71:228-33. [PMID: 16184371 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-005-0129-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2005] [Revised: 08/01/2005] [Accepted: 08/04/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Klebsiella oxytoca, isolated from cyanide-containing wastewater, was able to utilize many nitriles as sole source of nitrogen. The major objective of this study was to explore the ability of K. oxytoca to utilize some nitriles and then further evaluate the pathways of transformation of cyanide compounds by K. oxytoca. Results from this study indicate that succinonitrile and valeronitrile were the most optimal sources of nitrogen for the growth of K. oxytoca. The biodegradation of acetonitrile proceeded with the formation of acetamide followed by acetic acid. The production of ammonia was also detected in this biodegradation experiment. Similar results were observed in the propionitrile biodegradation experiments. Collectively, this study suggests that the breakdown of acetonitrile or propionitrile by this bacterium was via a two-step enzymatic hydrolysis with amides as the intermediates and organic acids plus with ammonia as the end products.
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Chen SC, Hallum LE, Suaning GJ, Lovell NH. Psychophysics of prosthetic vision: I. Visual scanning and visual acuity. CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS : ... ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2006; 2006:4400-4403. [PMID: 17946627 DOI: 10.1109/iembs.2006.260816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Recipients of vision prosthesis prototypes have reported electrically elicited visual perceptions as discrete dots of light (phosphenes). Phosphenes construct the scenery in discontinuous small isolated patches, resulting in visual information deficit to a large portion of the visual field. Visual scanning therefore plays an important role in the utility of prosthetic vision. In a psychophysical study, normally sighted subjects undertook a visual acuity task in a simulation of prosthetic vision with scanning facilitated by head movements. Subjects who adopted the circular scanning technique (4/12) correctly identified >60% of the test items, compared to subjects with no particular scanning patterns (3/12) with <50%. Increased head movement velocity was correlated to increased performance; at optimal scanning velocities, we estimated a 50% increase in identification rate or a two-fold improvement in visual acuity threshold compared to otherwise complete lack of scanning movement. Improved performance likely resulted from positive interactions with the temporal processes of the human visual system, which may as much as double the spatial information of that originally afforded by the phosphene lattice.
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Lai TH, Chen SC. AC-024 Increased serum progesterone/oestradiol ratio in the late follicular phase could be related to lower clinical pregnancy rate in in-vitro fertilization programme. Reprod Biomed Online 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(11)60472-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Santangelo RT, Chen SC, Sorrell TC, Wright LC. Detection of antibodies to phospholipase B in patients infected with Cryptococcus neoformans by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Med Mycol 2005; 43:335-41. [PMID: 16110779 DOI: 10.1080/13693780412331282331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted phospholipases are virulence factors of several fungi, including Cryptococcus neoformans. We describe for the first time the detection by ELISA of antibodies to cryptococcal phospholipase B in the serum of patients infected with C. neoformans or C. gattii. Sixty-nine sera from 25 patients with cryptococcosis, 23 patients with Candida infections and 26 with bacterial or viral infections were tested. The sensitivity of the ELISA in patients with cryptococcosis was 100% in immunocompetent hosts and 64.3% in immunosuppressed patients with cryptococcal meningitis. Absorbance readings were significantly higher in immunocompetent patients (P<0.001). Titres remained positive for up to 2 years. Positive results were noted in 10 episodes of invasive candidiasis, three patients colonised with Candida, and three cases of bacterial infection. Mean absorbance readings were significantly lower in patients with bacterial infection (P <0.001). We conclude that phospholipase B is produced in vivo during cryptococcal infection and that serum phospholipase B antibodies are a sensitive marker of present or past infection. Cross-reactivity of the ELISA with sera from patients with candidiasis indicates that common epitopes are present on cryptococcal and candidal phospholipase B, hence fungal phospholipase B may constitute a new therapeutic target.
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Kao CM, Liu JK, Chen YL, Chai CT, Chen SC. Factors affecting the biodegradation of PCP by Pseudomonas mendocina NSYSU. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2005; 124:68-73. [PMID: 15979238 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2005.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2004] [Revised: 02/22/2005] [Accepted: 03/26/2005] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
A pentachlorophenol (PCP) degrading bacterium was isolated from PCP-contaminated soils and identified as Pseudomonas mendocina NSYSU (P. mendocina NSYSU). The main objectives of this study were to (1) clarify the factors affecting the ability and efficiency of PCP biodegradation by P. mendocina NSYSU, and (2) optimize the use of this bacterium in bioremediation of PCP. Microcosm experiments were conducted to fulfill the objectives. In batch cultures, P. mendocina NSYSU used PCP as its sole source of carbon and energy and was capable of completely degrading this compound. This was confirmed by the stoichiometric release of chloride ion. Moreover, P. mendocina NSYSU was able to mineralize a high concentration of PCP (150 mg/L). Results from the oxygen concentration experiment reveal that the growth of P. mendocina NSYSU was inhibited under low oxygen and anaerobic conditions. Results indicate that the optimal growth conditions for P. mendocina NSYSU include the following: slightly acidic (6<pH<7), aerobic, and relatively moderate ambient temperature (20 degrees C<temperature<30 degrees C) conditions. Addition of extra carbon sources (sodium acetate and glucose) could not enhance the PCP biodegradation. No PCP byproducts were detected after eight days of incubation in this study. This suggests that P. mendocina NSYSU is able to effectively biodegrade PCP and its biodegradation byproducts without the accumulation of inhibitory toxic compounds. Results from this study could be used to assist the optimization of its use in bioremediation of PCP.
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Shao DB, Chen SC. Numerical simulation of surface-plasmon-assisted nanolithography. OPTICS EXPRESS 2005; 13:6964-6973. [PMID: 19498717 DOI: 10.1364/opex.13.006964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, based on numerical study using Finite Difference Time Domain method, we discuss two possible illumination schemes utilizing surface plasmon effects to achieve high density sub-100 nm scale photolithography by using ultraviolet light from a mercury lamp. In the illumination schemes discussed in this paper, a thin film layer, named as shield layer, is placed in between a photoresist layer and a silicon substrate. In the first scheme, the shield material is titanium. Simulations show that the surface plasmons excited on both the metallic mask and the titanium shield enable the transfer of high density nanoscale pattern using mercury lamp emission. In the second scheme, a silicon dioxide layer is used instead of the titanium to avoid possible metal contamination. The two schemes discussed in this paper offer convenient, low cost, and massive pattern transfer methods by simple adjustment to the traditional photolithography method.
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Kao CM, Li SH, Chen YL, Chen SC. Utilization of the metal-cyano complex tetracyanonickelate (II) by Azotobacter vinelandii. Lett Appl Microbiol 2005; 41:216-20. [PMID: 16033524 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765x.2005.01731.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The ability of Azotobacter vinelandii, a N(2)-fixing bacterium, to biodegrade tetracyanonickelate (TCN) was evaluated. METHODS AND RESULTS The amounts of TCN were measured spectrophotometrically. Ammonia was determined colorimetrically by the indophenol method. The produced methane from TCN conversion by A. vinelandii was detected by gas chromatography. Results showed that A. vinelandii was able to biodegrade 1 mmol l(-1) of TCN. Ammonia and methane were detected during the process of TCN degradation. Effects of exogenous nitrogen sources on TCN degradation were addressed in this study. Results revealed that the addition of ammonia (1, 5 and 10 mmol l(-1)) into the reaction mixtures caused decrease of TCN degradation rate during a 24-h incubation period. This inhibition was also observed when nitrite (5 and 10 mmol l(-1)) was added, whereas TCN degradation still proceeded after the addition of nitrate at the same concentrations. Furthermore, the rate of TCN utilization was strikingly enhanced when 0.8% of glucose was added. CONCLUSIONS Azotobacter vinelandii can degrade 1 mmol l(-1) of TCN into ammonia and methane. However, the inhibitory effects of exogenous ammonia and nitrite on TCN degradation by this bacterium were found in this study. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This is the first report defining the capability of A. vinelandii to degrade TCN. This bacterium might have potential value in applied strategies for removing metal-cyano wastes. Furthermore, these findings would be helpful in designing a practical system inoculated with A. vinelandii for the treatment of TCN.
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Lee MS, Tu YK, Chao CCK, Chen SC, Chen CY, Chan YS, Yeh WL, Ueng SWN. Inhibition of nitric oxide can ameliorate apoptosis and modulate matrix protein gene expression in bacteria infected chondrocytes in vitro. J Orthop Res 2005; 23:440-5. [PMID: 15734260 DOI: 10.1016/j.orthres.2004.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2003] [Accepted: 06/18/2004] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Bacterial infection stimulates nitric oxide (NO) production in chondrocytes. However, the role of NO in chondrocyte apoptosis after infection remains unclear. The purpose of the study was to test if inhibition of NO could ameliorate apoptosis and modulate matrix protein gene expression in bacteria-infected chondrocytes. It was shown that pre-treating chondrocytes with L-NAME (1 mM) significantly decreased the release of NO (from 72 to 14 microM) and the extent of apoptosis (from 52.9% to 18.9%). Pre-treatment with L-NAME also counteracted the bacteria-induced downregulation of Type II collagen (from 26% to 79%) and aggrecan (from 63% to 105%) mRNA levels. Inhibition of NO after the induction of infection could not decrease the extent of apoptosis and modulate matrix protein gene expression. The results of this study support the hypothesis that NO has an important role in bacteria-induced chondrocyte apoptosis. Pre-treatment but not post-treatment could ameliorate the extent of apoptosis and reestablish the cartilage matrix protein gene expression. This study suggests that in addition to NO, other mechanisms may be responsible for the sustained destruction of articular cartilage in the post-infectious arthropathy.
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Chen SC, Hallum LE, Lovell NH, Suaning GJ. Visual acuity measurement of prosthetic vision: a virtual-reality simulation study. J Neural Eng 2005; 2:S135-45. [PMID: 15876649 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2560/2/1/015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A virtual-reality simulation tested prosthetic visual acuity for both rectangular and hexagonal phosphene grids. Thirteen normally sighted, untrained subjects were required to identify the Landolt C optotype over ten sessions. Overall performance, performance by filter setting (image analysis), and performance by size and orientation of the Landolt C optotype are reported. The results indicated that the hexagonal grid had a slight (4.1%) but statistically significant (p < 0.0001) performance advantage over the rectangular grid for correct identification of the testing symbol. It was also observed that both the phosphene grids had distinct performance profiles relating to their respective spatial orientation. Over the course of the ten sessions, learning afforded subjects an averaged improved performance of 10%.
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Chen KF, Kao CM, Hsieh CY, Chen SC, Chen YL. Natural biodegradation of MTBE under different environmental conditions: microcosm and microbial identification studies. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2005; 74:356-364. [PMID: 15841978 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-004-0592-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
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Chen SC, Feng G. Clinic investigation and logistic analysis of risk factors of recurrent hemorrhage after operation in the earlier period of cerebral hemorrhage. ACTA NEUROCHIRURGICA. SUPPLEMENT 2005; 95:119-21. [PMID: 16463834 DOI: 10.1007/3-211-32318-x_26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Objective of this study was to investigate the incidence, time, location, prevention, treatment and risk factors of recurrent hemorrhage in the earlier period of cerebral hemorrhage after operation. Three hundred and twenty two patients with operations in the earlier period of cerebral hemorrhage were analyzed retrospectively. The clinical data of hemorrhage and recurrent cerebral hemorrhage groups were compared and statistically analyzed. Logistic regression analysis was applied to evaluate the function of possible factors leading to recurrent hemorrhage after operation. The incidence of recurrent hemorrhage was 21.4% in the earlier period of cerebral hemorrhage after operation. When the operation was performed after cerebral hemorrhage within 6 h, 6-12 h and 12-24 h, the incidence of recurrent hemorrhage after operation were 43.1%, 20.9%, 3.6% respectively. With regard to time of recurrent hemorrhage, the incidence was 3.1% within 12 h after operation, 15.5% between 12-24 h and just 2.8% after 24 h. Site of hemorrhage was in the basal ganglion in 92.6% of the cases. Mono-agent logistic analysis displayed that there is a significant correlation between high diastolic blood pressure, fluctuation of blood pressure after operation, taking anti-coagulant drugs for a long time, site of hemorrhage, difficult or not thorough hemostasis during operation and recurrent hemorrhage (p < 0.01). Multiple linear logistic regression analysis has shown that a remarkable diastolic blood pressure and fluctuation of blood pressure after operation are risk factors for recurrent hemorrhage. Their OR value were 10.32, 7.234. From this it is concluded that the incidence of recurrent cerebral hemorrhage after operation in the earlier period is 21.4%, which must never be ignored. The time period of 24 h after operation is a stage of high risk. Maintaining diastolic blood pressure below 85 mmHg and steadily controlling the pressure after operation are of great importance for prevention of recurrent cerebral hemorrhage.
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Tsai JF, Jeng JE, Chuang LY, You HL, Wang LY, Hsieh MY, Chen SC, Chuang WL, Lin ZY, Yu ML, Dai CY. Serum insulin-like growth factor-II as a serologic marker of small hepatocellular carcinoma. Scand J Gastroenterol 2005; 40:68-75. [PMID: 15841717 DOI: 10.1080/00365520410009311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is not a useful tumor marker for diagnosis of small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). There is over-expression of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II in HCC tissue. This study investigates the diagnostic application of IGF-II in small HCC. MATERIAL AND METHODS Serum levels of IGF-II and AFP were determined in 41 patients with small cirrhotic HCC (< or = 3 cm), 41 sex- and age-matched patients with cirrhosis alone (LC), and 41 healthy adults. The optimal cut-off values for diagnosing HCC were determined with receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve. RESULTS Both IGF-II and AFP levels in HCC were higher than those in LC patients or controls (each p = 0.0001). The IGF-II levels in LC patients were lower than those in controls (p = 0.001). In HCC patients, multivariate analysis indicated that that both IGF-II (odds ratio, 4.54; 95% confidence interval, 2.15-9.55; p = 0.0001) and AFP (odds ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.08; p = 0.003) were found to be associated with an increased risk of presence of HCC. The optimal cut-off values of IGF-II (4.1 mg/g prealbumin) and AFP (50 ng/ml) were determined with ROC curves. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy values for IGF-II were 63%, 90%, and 70%, respectively. Those for AFP were 44%, 95%, and 70%, respectively. Determination of both markers in parallel significantly increase the diagnostic accuracy (88%) and sensitivity (80%), with a high specificity (90%). CONCLUSIONS Serum IGF-II level can be used as an independent serologic marker or a complementary tumor marker to AFP for diagnosis of small HCC.
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Tsao CI, Lin HY, Lin MH, Ko WJ, Hsu RB, Hwang SL, Chen SC, Chou NK, Tu HT, Chen YS, Wang SS. Influence of UNOS status on chance of heart transplantation and posttransplant survival. Transplant Proc 2004; 36:2369-70. [PMID: 15561251 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2004.08.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED This study was designed to compare the chance of heart transplantation (HTx) and survival among patients in different UNOS statuses in Taiwan. METHODS AND RESULTS From 1996 to 2002, among 203 patients on the heart transplant waiting list, 127 patients had undergone HTx up to December 2002 with 71 dead while waiting, and 5 still alive without transplantation. This study included those 198 patients who had either undergone HTx or who died. At the time of registry, 40 patients were at status IA, 57 at IB, and 101 at II. Nineteen (47.5%) of 40 status IA patients underwent HTx with a mean waiting time of 92 +/- 116 days and median waiting time of 35 days. The 1-month survival was 84%, and 1-year survival was 58%. Seven (64.9%) of 57 status IB patients underwent HTx with a mean waiting time of 85 +/- 100 days and a median waiting time of 40 days. Both 1-month and 1-year survivals were 92%. Seventy-one (70.3%) patients among 101 status II patients underwent HTx. Their mean waiting time was 134 +/- 135 days and median waiting time was 86 days. Their 1-month survival was 95%, and 1-year survival was 85%. CONCLUSION Although UNOS status IA patients had a shorter waiting time, their chance to undergo HTx was lower than those in either status IB or status II. The UNOS status IA heart-waiting patients showed lower posttransplant 1-month and 1-year survival rates.
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Wu LT, Chu CC, Chung JG, Chen CH, Hsu LS, Liu JK, Chen SC. Effects of tannic acid and its related compounds on food mutagens or hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA strands breaks in human lymphocytes. Mutat Res 2004; 556:75-82. [PMID: 15491634 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2004.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2003] [Revised: 02/11/2004] [Accepted: 07/06/2004] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
The effect of tannic acid (TA), gallic acid (GA), propyl gallate (PA) and ellagic acid (EA) on DNA damage in human lymphocytes induced by food mutagens [3-amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido (4,3-b) indole (Trp-P-2) and 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimadazo (4,5-b) pyridine (PhIP) or H2O2 was evaluated by using single-cell electrophoresis (comet assay). The toxicity of these tested compounds (0.1-100 microg/ml) on lymphocytes was not found. These compounds did not cause DNA strand breaks at lower concentrations of 0.1-10 microg/ml. At a concentration of 100 microg/ml, TA and GA exhibited slight DNA damage, whereas PA and EA showed no DNA strand breaks. TA and its related compounds decreased the DNA strand breaks induced by Trp-P-2, PhIP or H2O2 at concentrations of 0.1-10 microg/ml. DNA repair enzymes endonuclease III (Endo III) and formamidopyrimidine-DNA glycoslase (FPG)] were used to examine the levels of oxidised pyrimidines and purines in human lymphocytes induced by H2O2. All the compounds at 10 microg/ml can reduce the level of FPG sensitive sites. However, only EA inhibited the formation of EndoIII sensitive sites. The results indicated that these compounds can enhance lymphocytes resistance towards DNA strand breaks induced by food mutagens or H2O2 in vitro.
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Lin MH, Lin HY, Tsao CI, Ko WJ, Hwang SL, Hu RH, Ho MC, Wu YM, Chen SC, Lee PH. Do patients with acute liver failure have a better chance to receive liver grafting? Transplant Proc 2004; 36:2232-3. [PMID: 15561202 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2004.08.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients with acute hepatic failure (AHF) were always given first priority on the transplant waiting list. We investigated whether AHF patients will deprive other patients on the waiting list of the chance of liver transplantation (LTx). METHODS AND RESULTS From January 1999 to March 2003, a total of 423 patients were on the transplant waiting list at the National Taiwan University Hospital. Sixty-five of the patients had AHF caused by hepatitis-B-related disease (HBV, n = 52, 80%), Wilson disease (n = 3, 4.6%), drug-induced AHF (n = 3, 4.6%), and other causes (n = 7, 10.8%).Thirty-three patients died and 16 survived by medical treatment. Two received LTx abroad and 14 underwent LTx at our hospital (7 living-related; 7 cadaver). A total of 140 patients died while waiting for a transplant during the period studied. Of them, 107 were among 358 non-AHF patients (30%), and time-to-death interval was 133 +/- 175 days (median: 62); 33 were among 65 AHF patients (51%); time to death was 19 +/- 28 days (median: 8). There were 35 cadaver donor livers available during the period; 28 of 358 non-AHF patients (7.8%), and 7 of 65 AHF patients (10.7%) received cadaveric LTx. Their waiting time totaled 342 +/- 316 and 12 +/- 9 days, respectively (P < .0001). CONCLUSION Most AHF patients died unless they received liver grafts. Even with a higher priority assigned to them, AHF patients still have little chance to get a cadaver donor liver in Taiwan, and non-AHF patients have an even slimmer chance. Therefore, we need to encourage liver donation from living-related donors.
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Lu Y, Chen SC. Micro and nano-fabrication of biodegradable polymers for drug delivery. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2004; 56:1621-33. [PMID: 15350292 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2004.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 249] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2003] [Accepted: 05/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents state-of-the-art micro and nano-fabrication techniques for biodegradable polymers. Replication molding, using a rigid or elastic master, can pattern structures on a polymer surface in a submicron resolution at a low cost. Layer-by-layer rapid prototyping methods are promising in producing controlled release units with complicated geometries, release mechanisms and the ability to control microstructure and composition. Special attention is paid to the fast, flexible, and non-invasive laser fabrication techniques that have great potential in the fabrication of biodegradable polymer drug delivery devices in both a laboratory and industry scale.
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Lu HF, Sue CC, Yu CS, Chen SC, Chen GW, Chung JG. Diallyl disulfide (DADS) induced apoptosis undergo caspase-3 activity in human bladder cancer T24 cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2004; 42:1543-52. [PMID: 15304301 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2003.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2003] [Accepted: 06/26/2003] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Diallyl disulfide (DADS), one of the major components of garlic (Allium sativum), is well known to have chemopreventative activity against human cancer such as colon, lung and skin. But the exact mechanism of the action is still unclear. In this study, we investigated how DADS--induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in T24 human bladder cancer cells in vitro. Apoptosis induction, cell viability, cell cycle arrest, caspases-3, -9 activity and gene expression were measured to determine their variation by flow cytometric assay, western blot, and determination of caspase-3 activity, PCR and cDNA microarray. There are significant differences in cell death (decreased viable cells then increased the amounts of apoptosis) of T24 cells that were detected between DADS (5-75 microM) treated and untreated groups. A significant increase was found in apoptosis induction when cells were treated with DADS (50 microM) compared to without DADS treated groups. DADS also promoted caspase-3 activity after exposure for 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h, which led to induce apoptosis. DADS also increased the product of intracellular hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, the DADS-induced apoptosis on T24 cells was blocked by the broad-spectrum caspase inhibitor, z-VAD-fmk and antioxidant (catalase). DADS also increased cyclin E and decreased CDK2 gene expression which may lead to the G2/M arrest of T24 cells.
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Chau SW, Hsu KL, Chen SC, Liou TM, Shih KC. The fluid property dependency on micro-fluidic characteristics in the deposition process for microfabrication. Biosens Bioelectron 2004; 20:133-8. [PMID: 15142586 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2003.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2003] [Accepted: 11/13/2003] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The droplet impingement into a cavity at micrometer-scale is one of important fluidic issues for microfabrications, e.g. the inkjet deposition process in the PLED display manufacturing. The related micro-fluidic behaviors in the deposition process should be carefully treated to ensure the desired quality of microfabrication. The droplets generally dispensing from an inkjet head, which contains an array of nozzles, have a volume in several picoliters, while each nozzle responds very quickly and jets the droplets into cavities on substrates with micrometer size. The nature of droplet impingement depends on the fluid properties, the initial state of droplet, the impact parameters and the surface characteristics. The commonly chosen non-dimensional numbers to describe this process are the Weber number, the Reynolds number, the Ohnesorge number, and the Bond number. This paper discusses the influences of fluid properties of a Newtonian fluid, such as surface tension and fluid viscosity, on micro-fluidic characteristics for a certain jetting speed in the deposition process via a numerical approach, which indicates the impingement process consists of four different phases. In the first phase, the droplet stretching outwards rapidly, where inertia force is dominated. In the second phase, the recoiling of droplet is observed, where surface tension becomes the most important force. In the third phase, the gravitational force pulls the droplet surface towards cavity walls. The fourth phase begins when the droplet surface touches cavity walls and ends when the droplet obtains a stable shape. If the fluid viscosity is relatively small, the droplet surface touches cavity walls in the second phase. A stable fluid layer would not form if the viscosity is relatively small.
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Slavin MA, Szer J, Grigg AP, Roberts AW, Seymour JF, Sasadeusz J, Thursky K, Chen SC, Morrissey CO, Heath CH, Sorrell T. Guidelines for the use of antifungal agents in the treatment of invasiveCandidaand mould infections. Intern Med J 2004; 34:192-200. [PMID: 15086700 DOI: 10.1111/j.1444-0903.2004.00541.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Treatment of invasive fungal infections is increasingly complex. Amphotericin B deoxycholate has long been the mainstay of treatment. However, there has been increasing recognition of both the propensity for nephro-toxicity in haematology, transplant and intensive care patients as well as its adverse impact on morbidity and mortality. This has coincided with the availabilty of newer, and in certain settings, more effective antifungal agents. Although the newer agents clearly cause less nephrotoxicity than amphotericin B, drug interactions, hepatic effects and unique side-effects need to be considered. The spectrum of the newer triazoles and echinocandins varies, highlighting the importance of accurate identification of the causative organism where possible. Consensus Australian guidelines have been developed to assist clinicians with treatment choices by reviewing the current evidence for the efficacy, the toxicity and the cost of these agents.
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Tsai JF, Jeng JE, Chuang LY, You HL, Ho MS, Lai CS, Wang LY, Hsieh MY, Chen SC, Chuang WL, Lin ZY, Yu ML, Dai CY. Serum insulin-like growth factor-II and alpha-fetoprotein as tumor markers of hepatocellular carcinoma. Tumour Biol 2004; 24:291-8. [PMID: 15004489 DOI: 10.1159/000076461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2003] [Accepted: 12/02/2003] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the diagnostic application of serum insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) levels in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), IGF-II and AFP were determined in 100 cirrhotic patients with HCC, 100 sex- and age-matched patients with cirrhosis alone and 50 healthy controls. The results indicated that IGF-II and AFP levels in patients with HCC were higher than in those with cirrhosis alone (p = 0.0001). There is an inverse correlation between IGF-II and (log)AFP (r = -0.410, p = 0.0001) in patients with HCC. Multivariate analysis indicated that IGF-II and AFP were closely associated, in a dose-related fashion, with the presence of HCC. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to determine the optimal cutoff values of IGF-II (4.5 mg/g prealbumin) and AFP (100 ng/ml), respectively. Both IGF-II and AFP show a high specificity and positive likelihood ratio. The sensitivity was 42.0% for IGF-II and 73.0% for AFP. Determination of both markers in parallel significantly increased the diagnostic accuracy (96.5%) and sensitivity (97.9%), with a high specificity (95.1%) and positive likelihood ratio (19.9). In conclusion, IGF-II and AFP may be used as complementary tumor markers to discriminate HCC from cirrhosis.
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