High Prevalence of Cardiometabolic Risks and Health Needs Among Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Treatment: A Cross-sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Many studies have indicated that inadequate health-related behavior is associated with the progression of cancer and cardiometabolic disorders. Because patients with hepatocellular carcinoma may adopt inadequate health behaviors, they are at risk for cancer recurrence, mortality, cardiometabolic disease progression, and worse quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the prevalence of cardiometabolic risks and health-promoting behaviors associated with quality of life among patients with hepatocellular carcinoma after treatment.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2021 to August 2022. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire, and cardiometabolic information was recorded from medical charts.

RESULTS

In total, 115 patients with liver cancer after treatment were enrolled; 73% were male. The mean age was 67.7 years, and high prevalence rates of central obesity (72.2%) and metabolic syndrome (47%) were noted. Inadequate exercise, oral hygiene, and cigarette smoking were common. The health-promoting score was significantly associated with exercise, the number of remaining teeth, and metabolic syndrome, which correlated with quality of life, including positive functional and negative symptoms dimensions.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings demonstrated a high prevalence of cardiometabolic risks and inadequate health-related behaviors among patients with liver cancer after treatment. This study highlights the need for healthcare providers to help patients increase health literacy for preventing cardiometabolic risks at outpatient clinics.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Findings from this study can be used to advise healthcare providers to educate patients with liver cancer during and after treatment on improving their health-promoting behaviors.

The Incidence of Bacteremia and Risk Factors of Post-Radiofrequency Ablation Fever for Patients with Hepato-Cellular Carcinoma

Post-radiofrequency ablation (RFA) fever is a self-limited complication of RFA. The correlation between post-RFA fever and bacteremia and the risk factors associated with post-RFA fever have not been evaluated. Patients with newly diagnosed or recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent ultrasonography-guided RFA between April 2014 and February 2019 were retrospectively enrolled. Post-RFA fever was defined as any episode of body temperature >38.0 °C after RFA during hospitalization. A total of 272 patients were enrolled, and there were 452 applications of RFA. The frequency of post-RFA fever was 18.4% (83/452), and 65.1% (54/83) of post-RFA fevers occurred on the first day after ablation. Patients with post-RFA fever had a longer hospital stay than those without (9.06 days vs. 5.50 days, p < 0.001). Only four (4.8%) patients with post-RFA fever had bacteremia. The independent factors associated with post-RFA fever were younger age (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.96, 95% CI, 0.94-0.99, p = 0.019), low serum albumin level (adjusted OR = 0.49, 95% CI, 0.25-0.95, p = 0.036), general anesthesia (adjusted OR = 2.06, 95% CI, 1.15-3.69, p = 0.015), tumor size (adjusted OR = 1.52, 95% CI, 1.04-2.02, p = 0.032), and tumor number (adjusted OR = 1.71, 95% CI, 1.20-2.45, p = 0.003).

Platycodin D alleviates proliferation and extracellular matrix accumulation in TGF-beta1 induced pulmonary fibroblasts

AIM

Platycodin D (PD), an oleanane kind of triterpenoid saponin, possesses various pharmacological activities. We aimed to investigate the effects of PD in pulmonary fibrosis.

METHOD

MRC-5 cells were induced by transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) to simulate the pulmonary fibrosis in vitro. Cell viability was determined using a CCK-8 kit in the absence or presence of PD. Then, the expression of proliferation-related proteins was detected using immunofluorescence assay or western blot analysis. Moreover, the levels of inflammatory factors were examined. Subsequently, the ability of cell migration was evaluated using wound healing assay. Additionally, western blot analysis was employed to determine migration- and extracellular matrix accumulation (ECM)-related proteins expression.

RESULTS

Results indicated that PD exposure significantly dose-dependently inhibited TGF-β1 induced proliferation in MRC-5 cells. Additionally, the contents of inflammatory factors were notably inhibited with PD treatment. Furthermore, significant decrease in migration of TGF-β1-stimulated MRC-5 cells was observed after PD intervention. Afterwards, PD remarkably suppressed the expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I (Col I), collagen III (Col III) and E-cadherin (E-cad).

CONCLUSIONS

PD attenuated proliferation and ECM accumulation in TGF-β1 induced lung fibroblasts, providing experimental support for the clinical application of PD in the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis (Fig. 6, Ref. 33).

Pre-treatment quality of life as a predictor of distant metastasis-free survival and overall survival in patients with head and neck cancer who underwent free flap reconstruction

PURPOSE

This study examined the prognostic associations of pre-treatment quality of life (QoL) with overall survival (OS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DFMS) among patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) who underwent free flap reconstruction.

METHODS

A cohort of 127 HNC patients who received free flap reconstruction between November 2010 and June 2014 at a hospital were recruited. Pre-treatment QoL was measured by the University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire, which contains six physical domains, including speech, swallowing, appearance, saliva, taste and chewing, as well as the six social-emotional domains of pain, activity, recreation, shoulder, mood, and anxiety. Cox regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Results showed that pre-treatment QoL was predictive of OS and DMFS. Of the domains, swallowing, chewing, speech, taste, saliva, pain and shoulder were demonstrated to be significant predictors of OS. Additionally, swallowing, chewing, speech, pain and activity were demonstrated making significant contributions to DMFS.

CONCLUSION

Our data supported that physical domains of pre-treatment QoL were predictors for OS and DFMS in HNC patients with free-flap reconstruction. Longitudinal studies are warranted to clarify the prognostic abilities of social-emotional domains. Information on pre-treatment QoL should be taken into account to individualize care plan for these patients, and hence prolong their survival.

Tanshinone IIA inhibits human prostate cancer cells growth by induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Tanshinone IIA (Tan-IIA) is one of the major lipophilic components isolated from the root of Salviae Miltiorrhizae Radix. We explored the mechanisms of cell death induced by Tan-IIA treatment in prostate cancer cells in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

Cells were treated with Tan-IIA and growth inhibition was assessed. Cell cycle profiles after Tan-IIA treatment were determined by flow cytometry. Expression levels of cell cycle regulatory proteins and apoptosis-related proteins were determined after Tan-IIA treatment. Expression levels of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-regulated genes were determined to investigate their role in Tan-IIA-induced cell death. GADD153 expression was knocked down by small interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection. Rate of cell death and proliferation was obtained by 3-(4,5-dimethyl thizol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. Antitumor activity of Tan-IIA was performed in LNCaP xenograft model.

RESULTS

Our results showed that Tan-IIA caused prostate cancer cell death in a dose-dependent manner, and cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase was noted, in LNCaP cells. The G0/G1 phase arrest correlated with increase levels of CDK inhibitors (p16, p21 and p27) and decrease of the checkpoint proteins. Tan-IIA also induced ER stress in prostate cancer cells: activation and nuclear translocation of GADD153/CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-homologous protein (CHOP) were identified, and increased expression of the downstream molecules GRP78/BiP, inositol-requiring protein-1α and GADD153/CHOP were evidenced. Blockage of GADD153/CHOP expression by siRNA reduced Tan-IIA-induced cell death in LNCaP cells. Tan-IIA also suppressed LNCaP xenograft tumor growth, causing 86.4% reduction in tumor volume after 13 days of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that Tan-IIA causes G0/G1 cell cycle arrest in LNCaP cells and its cytotoxicity is mediated at least partly by ER stress induction. These data provide evidence supporting Tan-IIA as a potential anticancer agent by inducing ER stress in prostate cancer.

Mapping and marker-assisted selection of a brown planthopper resistance gene bph2 in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Nilaparvata lugens Stål (brown planthopper, BPH), is one of the major insect pests of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in the temperate rice-growing region. In this study, ASD7 harboring a BPH resistance gene bph2 was crossed to a susceptible cultivar C418, a japonica restorer line. BPH resistance was evaluated using 134 F2:3 lines derived from the cross between "ASD7" and "C418". SSR assay and linkage analysis were carried out to detect bph2. As a result, the resistant gene bph2 in ASD7 was successfully mapped between RM7102 and RM463 on the long arm of chromosome 12, with distances of 7.6 cM and 7.2 cM, respectively. Meanwhile, both phenotypic selection and marker-assisted selection (MAS) were conducted in the BC1F1 and BC2F1 populations. Selection efficiencies of RM7102 and RM463 were determined to be 89.9% and 91.2%, respectively. It would be very beneficial for BPH resistance improvement by using MAS of this gene.

SSR mapping of brown planthopper resistance gene Bph9 in Kaharamana, an Indica rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The brown planthopper (BPH) is one of the most serious insects pests of rice, and the host resistance has been recognized as one of the most economic and effective measures for BPH management. In this study, we conducted a molecular-based genetic analysis of Bph9 in Kaharamana, a Sri Lanka rice variety resistant to BPH insects of East and Southeast Asia. An F2 segregating population composed of 180 plants was constructed from the cross between Kaharamana and 02428, and each F2 plant was self-crossed to obtain F2:3 family. The bulked seedling test method was used to evaluate the resistance of F2:3 families, and the genotype of each F2 plant was inferred from the phenotype of corresponding F2:3 family. Linkage analysis indicated that the resistant gene Bph9 in Kaharamana was located between SSR markers RM463 and RM5341 on chromosome 12 with linkage distances of 6.8 cM and 9.7 cM, respectively. The time- and money-saving SSR markers would be helpful in the application of Bph9 in breeding program via marker-assisted selection.

Immunohistochemical and molecular assessment of human herpesvirus type 8 in gastrointestinal tumours

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumours of the gastrointestinal tract, histologically identified as highly cellular spindle or epithelioid cell tumours, and often positive for CD34 (60-70%). Kaposi's sarcomas (KSs) are similar to GISTs: they are most often found in the gastrointestinal tract (although cutaneous lesions do occur), they are also composed of spindle or epithelioid cells (although erythrocytes are also seen), and the tumour cells are nearly all positive for CD34. Human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8) DNA has been found consistently in all types of KS, in particular in CD34 positive KS tumour cells. However, the association between HHV-8 and GIST has not been investigated.

AIMS

To assess the presence of HHV-8 in GISTs.

METHODS

Paraffin wax embedded tissues of 86 primary GISTs and their recurrent or metastatic tumours were analysed immunohistochemically for the CD34 antigen and HHV-8 latent nuclear antigen 1 (LNA-1) and by means of the nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real time PCR for HHV-8 DNA.

RESULTS

None of the 86 GISTs contained HHV-8 DNA sequences or LNA-1 positive cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate the lack of HHV-8 infection in GIST tumour cells. HHV-8 does not appear to play a role in the pathogenesis of GIST, irrespective of the status of the tumour.

QTL detection for eating quality of cooked rice in a population of chromosome segment substitution lines

The genetic mechanism underlying six palatability properties of cooked rice and three physico-chemical traits was dissected in 66 BC(3)F(2) chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs), using a complete linkage map in three successive years. The CSSLs showed transgressive segregation for all traits studied. Significant correlation was detected among most palatability traits. A total of 25 QTLs for the nine traits were identified on nine chromosomes, and many QTLs affecting different quality traits were mapped in the same regions. Six QTLs--qLT-8 for luster, qTD-6 and qTD-8 for tenderness, qIVOE-6 and qIVOE-8 for integrated value of organoleptic evaluation, and qAC-8 for amylose content--were repeatedly detected across the 3 years. Phenotypic values were significantly different between the recurrent parent, cultivar Asominori, and the CSSLs harboring any of the six QTL alleles across the three environments, indicating that these six QTLs were non-environment-specific and could be used for marker-assisted selection in rice quality improvement.

Ultrasound diagnosis of paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma

Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common tumour of the lower genitourinary tract in children in the first two decades. Paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma is associated with a significantly better outcome than lesions elsewhere in the genitourinary tract. Although ultrasound is considered the imaging modality of choice for evaluating intrascrotal pathology, the ultrasound appearance of paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma has rarely been reported and may be confused with other disease entities such as epididymitis, adenomatoid tumour and leiomyoma. We present the ultrasound features of a paratesticular rhabdomyosarcoma, discussing the clinical features and differential diagnosis.

Epidemiological and genetic studies of myotonic dystrophy type 1 in Taiwan

To investigate the prevalence and genetic characteristics of myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) in Taiwan, DM-suspected patients and their families identified during the period of 1990-2001 had their clinical records reevaluated and the CTG repeat sizes at the DM1 locus examined. A total of 96 subjects belonging to 26 families were identified as DM1 patients, which gave a minimal disease prevalence of 0.46/100,000 inhabitants. Clinical anticipation was frequently observed in affected families, even in some parent-child pairs with transmission contraction of the CTG repeat size. The inverse correlation between age at onset and CTG repeat length was significant only in patients with small expansions. In addition, a DM1 carrier with a childhood-onset son was found to have CTG length heterogeneity in the range of 40-50, indicating that premutation alleles could be unstable during gametogenesis as well as in somatic tissues. Our data demonstrated that DM1 is a rare disease in Taiwan and showed that transmission contraction of repeat size is more likely to occur in alleles with large repeats.

Effects of garlic components diallyl sulfide and diallyl disulfide on arylamine N-acetyltransferase activity and 2-aminofluorene-DNA adducts in human promyelocytic leukemia cells

Two components of garlic, diallyl sulfide (DAS) and diallyl disulfide (DADS), inhibited arylamine N-acetyltransferase (NAT) activity and 2-aminofluorene-DNA adduct in human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60). The NAT activity was measured by high performance liquid chromatography assaying for amounts of N-acetyl-2-aminofluorene (2-AAF) and remaining 2-aminofluorene (2-AF). Cellular cytosols and intact cell suspensions were assayed. The inhibition of NAT activity and 2-AF-DNA adduct formation in human leukemia cells by DAS and DADS were dose-dependent and were directly proportional. The data also indicated that DAS and DADS decrease the apparent values of Km and Vmax from human leukemia cells in both assays. This is the first report of garlic components affecting human leukemia cell NAT activity and 2-AF-DNA adduct formation.

Clinical outcome following ultra-early operation for patients with intracerebral hematoma from aneurysm rupture--focussing on the massive intra-sylvian type of subarachnoid hemorrhage

Of 250 patients admitted with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) from 1994 to 2000, 16 had massive intra-sylvian hematomas. To predict the useful determinants of the clinical outcome for such patients we analyzed our last 16 cases. The study was performed in 2 parts. Part 1 covered the period from 1994 to 1996 and included 5 patients who underwent early surgery. Immediately before operation, Hunt & Kosnik grade (H&K) III was observed in 1, IV in 3 and V in 1 patient. Part 2, from 1997 to 2000, included 11 patients who underwent ultra-early surgery (within 3 hours after admission) with ventriculostomy and with 2 weeks' postoperative management in the ICU. Preoperatively, there were 2 patients with H&K III, 7 with IV, and 2 with V. The results in part 1 showed that 3 out of the 5 patients had poor outcome with symptomatic vasospasm. While in Part 2, seven returned to work, 2 had minimal and 1 had severe neurological deficits with symptomatic vasospasm, and 1 died. We therefore suggest that ultra-early surgery with ventriculostomy and postoperative management in the ICU is the most useful determinant to improve the clinical outcome in the treatment of SAH patients with massive intra-sylvian hematoma.

[Detection and analysis of QTL for resistance to the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål), in rice (Oryza sativa L.), using backcross inbred lines]

A mapping population of 98 BC1F9 lines (backcross inbred lines: BILs), derived from a backcross of Nipponbare (japonica)/Kasalath (indica)//Nipponbare by the single-seed descent methods, was used to detect quantitative trait loci (QTL) for resistance to brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens (Stål). Seedbox Screening Technique (SST) was applied to evaluate the reactions of two parents and 98 BILs to BPH at the seedling stage, and the entries were graded on ratio of dead seedlings. A total of three QTL controlling BPH resistance were detected on chromosomes 2, 10 and 12, respectively. Individual QTL accounted for between 10.4% and 16.6% of the phenotypic variance, and the resistance of all the three QTL came from Kasalath, the moderate resistance parent. These QTL should be useful in breeding of varieties resistant to BPH in marker-assisted selection (MAS) program.

[Primary aldosteronism presented with intracranial hemorrhage]

Although primary aldosteronism (PA) has been reported as a relatively benign form of hypertension and is associated with low incidence of vascular complications, recent reports indicate that PA complicated by cerebral vascular accidents is not rare. The authors reported here that a 57-year-old man was diagnosed as a case of PA 4 years after initial treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and hypertension. The patient was transferred to our department for further management of his left hemiplegia and hypertension after surgical treatment for a putaminal ICH at the age of 53. During the first 2 years of follow-up, he did well except for an episode of transient motor weakness. Diastolic hypertension was moderately good, controlled by calcium antagonists and ACE inhibitors. Laboratory data was normal, and the serum potassium levels were in the lower limits of normal. In the last 2 years, episodes of motor weakness have increased. He was admitted to our hospital, under the suspicion of recurrent Todd's paralysis. The serum potassium level ranged from 1.9 to 2.1 despite administration of potassium agents. Abdominal CT scans and 131 I-scintigraphy disclosed a left adrenal tumor. Elevation of plasma aldosterone and suppression of plasma renin were observed. The diagnosis of PA due to hypersecretion of aldosterone from an adrenal tumor was thus confirmed. We performed a total left adrenectomy 4 weeks after his admission. Histological examination showed a clear-cell type of benign adrenal adenoma. After the operation, laboratory data were normal and ACE inhibitors were able to normalize his diastolic hypertension. According to the literature, PA complicated by ICH is associated with a high rate of recurrence of cerebral vascular accidents if treatment of PA is not performed. Although diagnosis of PA in the early stage is difficult, as it was in our presented case, high suspicion of PA is essential for patients with diastolic hypertension and persistent hypopotassiumemia, particularly in young adults and middle-aged patients.

Results of 12-year clinical study of giant retinal tear

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the surgical results of scleral buckling alone on eyes with retinal detachment with giant retinal tears of less than 120 degrees, without inverted flap or proliferative vitreoretinopathy, and vitrectomy combined with scleral buckling with or without intraoperative usage of perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) in complicated cases.

METHODS

Retrospectively, we reviewed giant retinal tear cases treated at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan between January 1, 1989 and August 31,2000. The surgical techniques consisted of standard three-port pars plana vitrectomy combined with scleral buckling in complicated cases, PFCL used intraoperatively in later cases, and scleral buckling alone in minor cases.

RESULTS

A total of 47 consecutive eyes with giant retinal tears with retinal detachment in 45 patients with no previous history of ocular penetrating injury or vitreoretinal operations were enrolled in this study. The follow-up period was at least three months for all patients. Thirty-four eyes (72.3%) had giant retinal tears of less than 180 degrees, 12 eyes (25.5%) had tears between 180 degrees and 270 degrees, and one eye had two giant retinal tears. Scleral buckling combined with vitrectomy was performed in 36 complicated eyes (76.6%), PFCL was used intraoperatively later in 24 eyes, and scleral buckling was used alone in 11 minor cases (23.4%). Thirty eyes (63.8%) gained reattachment after the first surgery. Altogether, the retinas of 38 of 47 eyes (80.9%) remained attached at the last follow-up examination.

CONCLUSION

In minor cases of giant retinal tear, scleral buckling alone without vitrectomy may be considered the primary surgical procedure. In complicated cases, using PFCL intraoperatively not only affords many advantages during surgery, but also raises the retinal reattachment rate.

Choroidal masses: a fourteen-year analysis

BACKGROUND

Choroidal masses present much diversification in clinical features and incidence. The purpose of this study is to investigate the epidemiological and clinicopathological manifestations of different choroidal tumors in order to tabulate appropriate diagnostic approaches.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients with choroidal masses was conducted, the analysis being based upon the review of our medical records from January 1986 to December 1999 inclusively. A definite diagnosis of choroidal mass was confirmed by at least two experienced ophthalmologists. For patients who were enrolled in this study, an ophthalmic examination was conducted and medical history was recorded. Some ancillary tests, such as indirect ophthalmoscopy, ultrasonography, fluorescein angiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, were used to support the accuracy of our diagnoses.

RESULTS

A total of 149 patients were enrolled in this study, of which 103 cases were excluded due to a loss of follow-up or incomplete medical records. Forty-six patients (51 eyes) included 12 cases (26%) of malignant metastases, 10 cases (22%) of hemangiomas, 2 cases (4%) of osteomas, 5 cases (11%) of melanocytomas, 8 cases (17%) of melanomas, and 9 cases (20%) of other melanocytic lesions. The male to female ratio was 21:25. The average length of follow-up was 20.5 months, and the average age of these patients was 42.8 years. Presenting with varied clinical incidence and pictures, each category of choroidal mass was investigated thoroughly.

CONCLUSION

With more clinical experience and a better understanding of choroidal masses, we are able to propose an early differential diagnosis and therapeutic approach to the effective management of them in order to minimize ocular morbidity and improve patients' survival and quality of life.

Surgical treatment of posterior fossa tumors via the occipital transtentorial approach: evaluation of operative safety and results in 14 patients with anterosuperior cerebellar tumors

OBJECT

To determine the safety and usefulness of performing surgery via the occipital transtentorial approach to treat anterosuperior cerebellar tumors, evaluation of 14 patients was performed over a 5-year period.

METHODS

The study was performed in 14 patients, aged 6 months to 71 years, who harbored anterosuperior cerebellar tumors of the posterior fossa including four hemangioblastomas, three cerebellar astrocytomas, three medulloblastomas, two metastatic tumors, one recurrent astrocytoma, and one rhabdoid cell tumor. All patients underwent surgical treatment by the same surgical team and via the same surgical approach. Endoscopy combined with neuronavigation was used for large, deep-seated tumors extending to the fourth ventricle. Of the 14 patients, total or gross-total removal was achieved in 12 patients and subtotal removal in two patients. There was no incidence of mortality or morbidity in the 14 patients, and all functional outcomes were good to excellent postoperatively. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed that none of the patients had suffered brain damage or infarction around the cerebellum, brainstem, or occipital lobe.

CONCLUSIONS

Although this study was the first in which a specific examination of the efficacy of the occipital transtentorial approach in patients with anterosuperior cerebellar tumors was undertaken, our findings suggest that this surgical approach is very useful, safe, and accurate for removing the primary tumor and evaluating the surrounding anatomy, as well as for determining operative strategy.

Environmental dissipation of fungicide triphenyltin acetate and its potential as a groundwater contaminant

The effects of various factors on fungicide triphenyltin acetate dissipation in selected soil types were studied; temperature is clearly the most important factor of these. Residues of this fungicide in Fangtzupo clay loam and Lanyang loam incubated at 30 degrees C for 32 days (water content 100, 70, or 40% of field capacity) were 25% of the original amounts. In soil samples incubated at 10, 30, or 40 degrees C with 100% field capacity water content, residues were 80, 26, and 5.5% for Fangtzupo soil, respectively, and 83, 26, and 7.0% for Lanyang soil, respectively. No significant difference in dissipation rate was found between sterilized and unsterilized soil, suggesting that microbial degradation is not an important factor in this process. Rapid degradation rates were observed-half-lives of 8.3 to 19.4 days in Fangtzupo clay loam and 8.0 to 16.3 days in Lanyang loam at temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees C (soil water content of 100, 70, and 40% of field capacity). Significant increases in half-life (approximately 150 days) occurred at lower temperatures (10 degrees C) in both soil types. The potential of triphenyltin acetate to contaminate groundwater was tested using the behavior assessment and groundwater pollution-potential models. Results indicate that the leaching rate of the fungicide is very slow (1.0 cm day(-1)) under normal conditions.

Surgical treatment of pineal region tumours through the occipital transtentorial approach: evaluation of the effectiveness of intra-operative micro-endoscopy combined with neuronavigation

OBJECT

To determine the efficacy and accuracy of surgically-assisted systems including endoscopy combined with neuronavigation in the treatment of pineal region tumours through the occipital transtentorial approach, an evaluation of thirty-one patients undergoing surgery was performed over a 10-year period.

METHOD

The study was performed in 2 parts. The surgical approach to the pineal region was the same in the two parts, but in part 2 a smaller craniotomy window was used. Part 1 (from March 1989 to March 1997) included 15 patients who underwent surgical removal of pineal region tumours without using assisted systems; four out of the fifteen patients had surgery-related complications, including seizure and hemianopsia. Part 2 (from April 1997 to February 1999) included 16 patients who underwent surgical treatment by the same surgical team and with assisted systems; all 16 patients had excellent outcomes, with no complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Although this study was the first specifically to examine the efficacy of endoscopy combined with neuronavigation in the treatment of pineal region tumours, our findings suggest that these systems are very useful, safe, and accurate in evaluating the primary tumour and surrounding anatomy as well as in determining operative strategy, such as the location and size of the scalp incision, craniotomy, and the extent of surgical removal. Therefore, we conclude that the addition of endoscopy combined with neuronavigation to standard surgical procedures can improve the outcome of surgical treatment of pineal region tumours.

Characterization of a desiccation-related protein in lily pollen during development and stress

This work characterizes a lily (Lilium longiflorum Thunb. cv. Snow Queen) anther (LLA) protein associated with desiccation. Peptide mapping analysis revealed that the abundant LLA-23 doublet contained similar polypeptides, having an isoelectric point of 6.1. Immunoblots of pollen protein from developing anther/pollen confirmed that the LLA-23 protein accumulated only at the later stage of pollen maturation and that the levels remained steady in mature and vital pollen. The accumulation of LLA-23 proteins was correlated with desiccation that naturally occurred in pollen. Subcellular fractionation of pollen proteins revealed that the protein was located in the cytoplasmic fraction. Premature drying of developing pollen confirmed that the concomitant accumulation of LLA-23 was associated with desiccation. Peptide sequence analysis demonstrates similarities between the lily LLA-23 and a family of water-deficit/ripening-induced proteins including LP3 of pine, DS2 of potato, and Asr of tomato and pummelo. In addition, the concomitant accumulation of LLA-23 can be experimentally manipulated by methyl jasmonate (Me-JA) and salicylic acid (SA) as well as by mannitol and methyl viologen. The LLA-23 represents a novel member of the water-deficit/ripening-induced proteins.

[Management of ipsilateral femoral shaft and neck fracture]

From Oct. 1987 to Oct. 1993, 704 patients with femoral shaft fracture were managed at our hospital. Among these, 12 patients were with combined femoral shaft and neck fracture (2%). The age ranged from 17 years to 58 years (average 38.2 years). Eleven patients were victims of traffic accidents and another 1 fell from a height. Most of them had associated injuries, including fractures elsewhere, head injury, chest and abdominal trauma. Five of them were treated with open reduction and internal fixation with Huckstep intramedullary nail, 2 with Kuntscher nail and Knowles' pin, 2 with plate and compression hip screw, 2 with plate and Knowles' pin and one patient was managed with Kuntscher nail and traction. Ten patients were followed up for more than 3 years, and the other 2 lost follow-up at 5 months and 12 months. The fractures were all united with 2 malunions. Complications included 3 deep infections and one avascular necrosis.

Measurement of synovial tumor necrosis factor-alpha in diagnosing emergency patients with bacterial arthritis

Because of the high morbidity and mortality in patients with bacterial arthritis, rapidly and correctly diagnosing this critical condition is a challenge to emergency clinicians. Synovial fluid samples were obtained from 75 patients with arthritis disorders who presented to an emergency service, and levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. Twenty patients with culture-proven bacterial arthritis had higher levels of synovial TNF-alpha than patients with osteoarthritis or with inflammatory arthritis, including gouty arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, reactive arthritis, and lupus arthritis. There was a good sensitivity for synovial TNF-alpha level in diagnosing patients with bacterial arthritis. Nearly 100% of patients with bacterial arthritis had elevated synovial TNF-alpha levels. However, synovial IL-1 beta and IL-6 levels failed to discriminate bacterial arthritis from other inflammatory arthritis. Measurement of synovial TNF-alpha level may be useful as a diagnostic aid in emergency patients with bacterial arthritis disorders.

Septic arthritis of adult hip treated by total hip replacement--a case report

Septic arthritis is usually seen in children as an acute febrile illness induced by septicemia, local inoculation of a joint caused by trauma or adjacent osteomyelitis. It also occurs in adults particulary those with debilitating disease or sepsis at other sites. It normally happens in knee joints, but rarely in hip joints. A 65-year-old patient suffered from hip pain and febrile episodes intermittently for two months. Diagnostic hip aspiration was performed with 60 ml pus drained. The aspirate grew Staphylococcus aureus. Hip arthrotomy was performed with extensive debridement. Eighteen months later, this patient received total hip replacement and he has remained well for 8 years, with no evidence of infection or of implants loosening.

CD69 to CD3 ratio of peripheral blood mononuclear cells as a marker to monitor systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity

CD69 is an early T cell activation marker. In order to investigate whether the disease activity of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is correlated with T cell hyperactivity as well as B cell hyperactivity, we measured the CD69 to CD3 ratio (CD69/CD3) of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 42 SLE patients and 18 healthy controls. To assess B cell activation, we measured the levels of anti-dsDNA, complement C3 and C4. Disease activity was assessed with the SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI) score. The mean value (+/- standard deviation) of CD69/CD3 for SLE patients (3.34 +/- 0.486) and healthy controls (0.92 +/- 0.015) were significantly different (P < 0.05). CD69/CD3, anti-dsDNA, C3 and C4 were all significantly correlated with SLEDAI (r = 0.50, 0.51, -0.68, -0.31, respectively, P < 0.05). CD69/CD3 could explain 25.4% of the variance in SLEDAI, and 6.7% of the variance that was independent of anti-dsDNA, C3 and C4. In patients with SLEDAI scores which were discordant with anti-dsDNA, C3 and C4 values, CD69/ CD3 still showed high correlation with SLEDAI. We conclude that CD69/CD3, which detects T cell activation is correlated with SLEDAI scores. Thus, T cell activation contributes part of the disease activity independent of B cell activity. This marker can complement in the estimation of disease activity when levels of anti-dsDNA, C3 and C4 fail to show good correlation.

Concurrent 5-fluorouracil, daily low-dose cisplatin, and radiotherapy in stage IIIB cervical cancer. A phase II prospective study

Between June 1987 and May 1991, 30 patients with Stage IIIB cervical cancers were treated using synchronous radiotherapy, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and daily low-dose cisplatin. External radiotherapy (3,600-3,960 cGy) was given to the whole pelvis in 4 weeks. Two courses of intracavitary brachytherapy were given 2 weeks later. Parametrial boost was then given. Continuous infusion of 5-FU 750 mg/m2 was given for 5 days during the first and third week of pelvic irradiation. Cisplatin (6 mg/m2) was given 30 min before every irradiation in the second and fourth week. The complete response rate was 87%. The 3-year local control rate was 77%. The 3-year overall and disease-free survival rate was 66% and 56%, respectively. Distant metastases were the major causes of treatment failure. Toxicities were acceptable. Our preliminary results indicate that this synchronous combination treatment is feasible. Further follow-up is required to determine whether this regimen has a genuine favorable impact on survival and chronic toxicity.

Surgical treatment of a sacral nerve root cyst with intermittent claudication in an 85-year-old patient: case report

The following presents a case of an 85-year-old woman with intermittent claudication of a sacral nerve root cyst. The cyst wall was incised and oversewn while preserving the surrounding nerve fibers by microscopic procedures. All symptoms were eliminated following the operation. The syndrome of intermittent claudication may possibly arise while walking from the transient influx of cerebrospinal fluid into a cyst in a relatively narrow sacral canal. The present case may indicate that a sacral nerve root cyst is curable even in aged patients through thorough evaluation and management.

Severe aplastic anemia induced by ticlopidine: report of a case

Ticlopidine is a powerful antiplatelet activator that inhibits adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-induced platelet aggregation. Its most common side-effects are skin rashes, diarrhea and neutropenia. Aplastic anemia is rare. This paper reports a patient with severe aplastic anemia that developed after the use of ticlopidine. The 85-year-old woman developed fever, chills and chest pain 5 weeks after starting ticlopidine 250 mg twice daily. Severe aplastic anemia was proved by blood examination, bone marrow aspiration and biopsy. In spite of the recovery of absolute neutrophil count to more than 1,000/mm3, 16 days after ticlopidine was stopped and administration of strong antibiotics, the patient died from candidal sepsis.

[Ender nailing of humeral shaft fractures]

From March 1991 to June 1992, thirteen patients with humeral shaft fracture were managed at our hospital with closed reduction and internal fixation with Ender nails. These patients were mainly victims of traffic accidents and falls and had fractures, head injuries, and chest trauma. The follow-up period was more than 1 year. Operations were performed under C-arm guide and, according to the method of Hall and Pankovich, divided into antegrade and retrograde methods. The average operation time was 104 minutes, ranging from 70 to 160 minutes, and blood loss was less than 100 ml. Twelve patients were available for follow-up with 11 unions (91.6%), and the functional results were satisfactory. Complications included 2 nails backing out and one iatrogenic fracture. There was no infection and no radial nerve injury. We concluded that for those humeral shaft fractures with surgical indication, Ender nailing was a good choice. The advantages include a simple procedure, lower infection rate and less nonunions.

Experimental investigations concerning a new liquid embolization method: combined administration of ethanol-estrogen and polyvinyl acetate

A new embolization agent combining ethanol-estrogen and polyvinyl acetate was evaluated angiographically and histologically in 18 canine renal arterial systems. Peripheral vessels of less than 100 microns diameter were obliterated by thrombus induced by ethanol-estrogen, and larger vessels were obliterated by polyvinyl acetate casts and/or thrombus. This embolization method is easily controlled and has fewer adverse effects, so is suitable for intravascular applications, especially in the head and neck regions.

Experimental investigation of a new liquid embolization method: enhancing effect of 25% ethanol on conjugated estrogen

A new liquid embolization material applicable to intracranial lesions was evaluated by selective renal artery embolization in mongrel dogs. Absolute and diluted ethanol, estrogen, and estrogen in 25% ethanol (ethanol-estrogen) were injected. The embolization and side effects were investigated angiographically and histologically. Ethanol-estrogen caused similar embolization to absolute ethanol, but no direct damage to perivascular tissue, and is considered a promising embolization agent in intravascular surgery.

Tissue culture, DNA flow cytometric and cytogenetic studies of a giant cell tumor of bone

An in vitro tissue culture was established using a giant cell bone tumor derived from a 66-year-old female. The tumor was clinically classified as stage 2, and grade 1 histologically. Morphological observations including, in vitro growth character, histochemical and immunohistochemical staining, and ultrastructural studies, support that the giant cell originated from the mononucleated stromal cell. They do not belong to the monocyte-macrophage system. In this aggressive case, we also tried to evaluate the significance of using DNA ploidy flow cytometry, and chromosomal study in predicting its clinical outcome. The DNA ploidies of both the primary and cultured tumor cells were diploid. The chromosomal analyses revealed its chromosome number ranging from 43 to 46 with three clonal structural changes; dic (19;20) (p13;q13), dic (19;22) (q13;q13) and dic (12;?) (p13;?). As previously compared and reported, cases with marker chromosomes usually had a more aggressive clinical course than those without marker chromosomes. Instability of the terminal portion of the F- and G- chromosome groups were reported in other studies and were also detected in our case. Possible association of clinical aggressiveness with the clonal structural changes, especially dic (19;20) (p;q) and dic (19;22) (q;q), needed further investigation.

Histopathological studies of a new liquid embolization method using estrogen-alcohol and polyvinyl acetate. Experimental evaluations with a model of cortical arterial cannulation in the canine brain

This experimental report evaluates the histopathological effects of a new embolization method using estrogen-alcohol (E-A) and polyvinyl acetate solution (PVac) as tested on 21 mongrel dogs. Three other animals treated with normal saline served as controls. All agents were introduced through an isolated cortical artery. Estrogen-alcohol induced immediate occlusion of small vessels (less than 20 microns), and then progressive obstruction of larger ones (200-300 microns) within several days. Animals treated with PVac showed vascular obliteration (greater than 100 microns) and moderate chronic fibrosis. The effects of embolization using E-A followed by PVac were found to have the combined advantages of both materials, showing diffuse occlusion of the vascular network with less tissue reaction. Hyalinization of embolized vessels with extensive fibrosis occurred afterward. For 6 weeks there was no evidence of recanalization or foreign body giant cell reaction. This study shows that E-A and PVac are capable of producing vascular occlusions with only mild tissue reaction. Because they are easily controllable and have no adverse effects, they may be suitable for intravascular application in the central nervous system.

Plasma compatibility of injectables: comparison of intravenous U-74006F, a 21-aminosteroid antioxidant, with Dilantin brand of parenteral phenytoin

The 21-aminosteroid antioxidant U-74006F (1) is being developed as an iv injectable agent for the treatment of human CNS trauma and ischemia. Because of its poor water solubility, the plasma compatibility of the parenteral formulation of 1 was evaluated using three models: (I) static solubility, (II) aggregometric, and (III) dynamic flow. The flow model was designed to mimic an iv infusion into the human antecubital vein, which was assumed to have plasma flow of 10 mL/min. Dilantin (phenytoin), the positive control, produced a precipitate in all three models from a 10% (v/v) mixture with human plasma, which approximates the in vivo ratio when the drug is infused at the recommended rate of 1 mL/min. Approximately 39% of the phenytoin dose in the flow model was retained on a downstream 3-microns filter as crystals. In comparison, the parenteral formulation of 1 produced minimal precipitate in models I and II from 40% mixtures with plasma, but higher percentages produced unstable suspensions with time-dependent precipitation. The percentage of the dose of the parenteral formulation of 1 retained on the filter in the flow model was 0.5% or less at infusion rates as high as 10 mL/min and 3% at 19 mL/min. At the 10-mL/min infusion rate, the mass of 1 retained on the filter per minute was less than 1% of the mass of phenytoin retained at the 1-mL/min infusion rate for Dilantin. The acceptable plasma compatibility of the parenteral formulation of 1 appears to be related to the solubilizing effects of plasma protein binding and pH suppression by the citric acid vehicle.

Morphological changes in normal canine basilar arteries after transluminal angioplasty

The balloon catheter technique is being utilized in various intravascular procedures and transluminal angioplasty, but the type of morphological changes which take place in intracranial vessels after balloon inflation and dilatation are still unknown. This study reports on morphological changes in normal canine basilar arteries after transluminal angioplasty (TA) with 1.5 Atmospheres of inflation pressure and 30% dilatation. Histological changes 1 h after TA consisted of denudation of endothelial cells, deposition of fibrin which covered the denuded endothelium, stretching and focal dehiscence of internal elastic lamina and altered myocytes in media. These morphological changes were more prominent when the balloon was inflated longer. Seven days after TA, however, the endothelium had been regenerated almost completely, while slight chronic changes still remained in the internal elastic lamina and media. Angiographical and morphometrical analyses did not disclose any significant differences. This report proposes that under some conditions intra-arterial inflation and dilatation of the intracranial arteries causes reversible changes, which are noted mainly in the endothelium. In addition, a new in vivo experimental model which could be of use for physiological or pathophysiological investigations of intracranial arteries is introduced.

Proximal clipping of dissecting intracranial vertebral aneurysm--effect of balloon Matas test with neurophysiological monitoring. Case report

A case of repeated subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) caused by rupture of a dissecting intracranial vertebral aneurysm is reported. The clinical manifestations, angiographic findings, pre-operative assessment with neurophysiological monitoring, and surgery are presented. A review of the literature suggests that this type of intracranial aneurysm is being recognized with increasing frequency in SAH and fatality, and therefore exploration and treatment of vertebrobasilar (V-B) dissecting aneurysms is necessary. We emphasize that a balloon Matas test with monitoring of somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP), auditory brain stem responses (ABR), and its wedge pressure in occluding the vertebral artery before operation are objective assessments of treatment for dissecting intracranial vertebral aneurysm.

Familial multiple-organ arterial ectasia with massive hemoptysis

Numerous large, thin-walled ectatic arteries up to 1 cm in diameter were encountered during operation on a 20-year-old patient. These vessels covered most of the right pleural surface. Similar symptomatic ectatic vessels were found arising from the left side and intracranially. Eight years later large arteriovenous malformations developed from chest wall and scar tissues that required ligations to control hemoptysis. This case was unique in that extensive multiorgan capillary and arterial systems were involved.

Mesophase formation during cholesterol gallstone dissolution in human bile: effect of bile acid composition

Duodenal bile obtained from patients with gallstones who were acutely infused with chenodeoxycholic acid, ursodeoxycholic acid, or cholic acid were examined for the propensity toward the formation of a liquid crystalline mesomorphic phase when cholesterol gallstones were incubated in these bile acids. Bile taken from patients infused with ursodeoxycholic acid was found to be enriched in ursodeoxycholic acid; mesophase formation was detected in these samples but not in bile from patients infused with chenodeoxycholic acid or cholic acid.

Influence of benzalkonium chloride on the dissolution rate behavior of several solid-phase preparations of cholesterol in bile acid solutions

Cholesterol dissolution rate accelerators, such as benzalkonium chloride, function by reducing the interfacial barrier that exists between the negatively-charged bile acid micelle and the negatively-charged cholesterol surface. It has been proposed that this reaction is accomplished by the binding of the positively-charged accelerator to the negatively-charged micelle. An earlier report showed that different solid preparations of cholesterol give different dissolution rates under the same conditions and these differences can be primarily accounted for by variations in the interfacial transport constant (P). By using the rotating disk dissolution apparatus and the Levich theory it has been possible to study the dissolution behavior of different cholesterol solid phases as a function of the benzalkonium chloride concentration. It was shown that the ratios of P values for the different phases are relatively constant over the range of the accelerator concentrations. This suggests that the accelerators act primarily on the micelle to enhance dissolution rate.

Unusual manifestations of penetrating cardiac injuries

Penetrating cardiac injuries frequently first appear in an unusual and insidious manner, and their diagnosis may not be immediately obvious. In a series of 20 cases of cardiac injury, ten cases were indicative of such subtle symptoms, several of which were life-threatening. These unusual manifestations can be categorized as early, intermediate, or late. Early problems of four patients included the following: (1) sudden onset of shock during laparotomy, performed due to apparent abdominal trauma; (2) cardiac arrest on arrival in the emergency room; and (3) cerebral air embolus and mimicked symptoms of possible irreversible anoxic brain damage. The intermediate manifestations of cardiac injury are usually discovered in the early recovery period, and include myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock and bullet embolus to a peripheral artery. Intermediate manifestations were observed in two patients. Four patients had late complications that included pseudoaneurysm, ventricular septal defect, valvular damage, and recurrent pericarditis. These late complications were observed between one month and 21 years after cardiac injury. This indicates the necessity of long-term follow-up of these patients.