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Wei P, Lamont B, He T, Xue W, Wang PC, Song W, Zhang R, Keyhani AB, Zhao S, Lu W, Dong F, Gao R, Yu J, Huang Y, Tang L, Lu K, Ma J, Xiong Z, Chen L, Wan N, Wang B, He W, Teng M, Dian Y, Wang Y, Zeng L, Lin C, Dai M, Zhou Z, Xiao W, Yan Z. Vegetation-fire feedbacks increase subtropical wildfire risk in scrubland and reduce it in forests. J Environ Manage 2024; 351:119726. [PMID: 38052142 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Climate dictates wildfire activity around the world. But East and Southeast Asia are an apparent exception as fire-activity variation there is unrelated to climatic variables. In subtropical China, fire activity decreased by 80% between 2003 and 2020 amid increased fire risks globally. Here, we assessed the fire regime, vegetation structure, fuel flammability and their interactions across subtropical Hubei, China. We show that tree basal area (TBA) and fuel flammability explained 60% of fire-frequency variance. Fire frequency and fuel flammability, in turn, explained 90% of TBA variance. These results reveal a novel system of scrubland-forest stabilized by vegetation-fire feedbacks. Frequent fires promote the persistence of derelict scrubland through positive vegetation-fire feedbacks; in forest, vegetation-fire feedbacks are negative and suppress fire. Thus, we attribute the decrease in wildfire activity to reforestation programs that concurrently increase forest coverage and foster negative vegetation-fire feedbacks that suppress wildfire.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Wei
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - B Lamont
- Ecology Section, School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia.
| | - T He
- College of Science Engineering & Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.
| | - W Xue
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - P C Wang
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - W Song
- College of Agronomy, Northwest Agriculture & Forestry University, Xianyang, 712100, China.
| | - R Zhang
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - A B Keyhani
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - S Zhao
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - W Lu
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - F Dong
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - R Gao
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - J Yu
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Y Huang
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - L Tang
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - K Lu
- Hubei Forestry Survey and Design Institute, East Lake Science and Technology, District, Wuhan, 430074, Hubei, China.
| | - J Ma
- Hubei Forestry Survey and Design Institute, East Lake Science and Technology, District, Wuhan, 430074, Hubei, China.
| | - Z Xiong
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - L Chen
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - N Wan
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - B Wang
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - W He
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - M Teng
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Y Dian
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Y Wang
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - L Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Forest Ecology and Environment, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - C Lin
- Hubei Forestry Survey and Design Institute, East Lake Science and Technology, District, Wuhan, 430074, Hubei, China.
| | - M Dai
- Hubei Forestry Survey and Design Institute, East Lake Science and Technology, District, Wuhan, 430074, Hubei, China.
| | - Z Zhou
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - W Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Forest Ecology and Environment, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, 100091, China.
| | - Z Yan
- Department of Forestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
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Zou T, Liu XY, Wang PC, Chen H, Wu PG, Feng XM, Sun HH. Incidence of Spontaneous Resorption of Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Meta-analysis. Clin Spine Surg 2023:01933606-990000000-00188. [PMID: 37559207 DOI: 10.1097/bsd.0000000000001490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A meta-analysis. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze the incidence of spontaneous resorption of lumbar disk herniation (LDH) after conservative treatment. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA The resorption of intervertebral disks has been more frequently reported, but there is a lack of reference to the probability of resorption. METHODS We strictly refer to the standard established in the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis) statement, comprehensively searched electronic databases using the terms related to the spontaneous resorption of LDH. Two reviewers independently evaluated the potential studies, extracted, and analyzed the enrolled data. RESULTS Thirty-one studies with 2233 patients who received conservative treatment were included for this analysis. We found that the pooled overall incidence of disk resorption was 70.39%, 87.77% for disk sequestration, 66.91% for disk extrusion, 37.53% for disk protrusion, and 13.33% for disk bugle, respectively. The resorption incidence in of 25%≤ reduction of disk herniation (RDH) 50%, RDH≥50%, and RDH=100% were 40.19%, 43.62, and 36.89%. The resorption incidence was 66.98% in Japan, 61.66% in the United States, 83.52% in Korea, 60.68% in China, 78.30% in the UK, 56.70% in Italy, and 83.68% in Turkey, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that there was no significant difference in resorption incidence among prospective, retrospective studies and randomized controlled trials (P=0.77), and there was no significant difference in evaluation method among qualitative and quantitative studies (P=0.05). CONCLUSIONS The existing evidence shows that the overall resorption incidence of LDH was 70.39%, the resorption incidence of ruptured LDH is higher than that of contained LDH. There are significant differences in the resorption incidence among countries. The resorption process mainly occurred within 6 months of conservative treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zou
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
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Abstract
Spinal cord injury is an intricate process involving a series of multi-temporal and multi-component pathological events, among which inflammatory response is the core. Thus, it is crucial to find a way to prevent the damaging effects of the inflammatory response. The research has found that Treg cells can suppress the activation, proliferation, and effector functions of many parenchymal cells by multiple mechanisms. This review discusses how Treg cells regulate the inflammatory cells to promote spinal cord recovery. These parenchymal cells include macrophages/microglia, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and others. In addition, we discuss the adverse role of Treg cells, the status of treatment, and the prospects of cell-based therapies after spinal cord injury. In conclusion, this review provides an overview of the regulatory role of Treg cells in spinal cord injury. We hope to offer new insights into the treatment of spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, China
| | - Hao Peng
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, China
| | - Ping-Chuan Wang
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, China
| | - Tao Zou
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, China
| | - Xin-Min Feng
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, China
| | - Bo-Wen Wan
- Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University/Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225000, China.
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Zou T, Chen H, Wang PC, Sun HH, Feng XM. Predictive factors for residual leg numbness after decompression surgery for lumbar degenerative diseases. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:910. [PMID: 36224568 PMCID: PMC9559037 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05848-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study is to evaluate the change patterns of leg numbness (LN) after lumbar decompression surgery (LDS), and to find the predictive factors that affect the recovery of numbness. Methods Patients who underwent LDS in our institution between August 2020 and July 2021 were prospectively enrolled in this study, and were followed by a 12-month follow-up. The degree of LN, leg pain (LP) and the disability were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) and oswestry disability index (ODI). Results A total of 314 patients finished the 12-month follow-up. The preoperative mean VAS-LN score was 3.49 ± 2.44, which decreased to 1.91 ± 1.30 at 3 months, to 1.29 ± 0.97 at 6 months and to 1.26 ± 0.96 at 12 months after surgery. The preoperative mean VAS-LP score was 6.05 ± 1.30, which decreased to 2.00 ± 0.86 at 3 months, to 1.02 ± 0.80 at 6 months, and to 0.49 ± 0.71 at 12 months after surgery. The preoperative mean ODI score was 27.90 ± 7.08, which decreased to 9.73 ± 3.09 at 3 months, to 6.72 ± 2.98 at 6 months, and to 4.57 ± 2.76 at 12 months after surgery. Via multivariate logistic regression analysis, only preoperative VAS-LN score (p < 0.001*) was identified as a significantly independent predictive factor for residual LN after operation. Conclusion Clinically significant improvement in LN was observed in the majority of patients within 6 months after LDS, and the improvement of VAS-LN was slower than the VAS-LP. High pre-operative VAS-LN score can independently predict the presence of residual LN after surgery at 12-month follow up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zou
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, No.98 Nantong West Road, 225001, Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, No.98 Nantong West Road, 225001, Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Ping-Chuan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, No.98 Nantong West Road, 225001, Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, China
| | - Hui-Hui Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, No.98 Nantong West Road, 225001, Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, China.
| | - Xin-Min Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, No.98 Nantong West Road, 225001, Yangzhou, Jiangsu province, China.
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Shi PZ, Wang JW, Wang PC, Han B, Lu XH, Ren YX, Feng XM, Cheng XF, Zhang L. Urolithin a alleviates oxidative stress-induced senescence in nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells through SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1928-1946. [PMID: 35069991 PMCID: PMC8727228 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i12.1928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In degenerative intervertebral disc (IVD), an unfavorable IVD environment leads to increased senescence of nucleus pulposus (NP)-derived mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs) and the inability to complete the differentiation from NPMSCs to NP cells, leading to further aggravation of IVD degeneration (IDD). Urolithin A (UA) has been proven to have obvious effects in delaying cell senescence and resisting oxidative stress.
AIM To explore whether UA can alleviate NPMSCs senescence and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.
METHODS In vitro, we harvested NPMSCs from rat tails, and divided NPMSCs into four groups: the control group, H2O2 group, H2O2 + UA group, and H2O2 + UA + SR-18292 group. Senescence-associated β-Galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) activity, cell cycle, cell proliferation ability, and the expression of senescence-related and silent information regulator of transcription 1/PPAR gamma coactivator-1α (SIRT1/ PGC-1α) pathway-related proteins and mRNA were used to evaluate the protective effects of UA. In vivo, an animal model of IDD was constructed, and X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and histological analysis were used to assess whether UA could alleviate IDD in vivo.
RESULTS We found that H2O2 can cause NPMSCs senescence changes, such as cell cycle arrest, reduced cell proliferation ability, increased SA-β-Gal activity, and increased expression of senescence-related proteins and mRNA. After UA pretreatment, the abovementioned senescence indicators were significantly alleviated. To further demonstrate the mechanism of UA, we evaluated the mitochondrial membrane potential and the SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway that regulates mitochondrial function. UA protected mitochondrial function and delayed NPMSCs senescence by activating the SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway. In vivo, we found that UA treatment alleviated an animal model of IDD by assessing the disc height index, Pfirrmann grade and the histological score.
CONCLUSION In summary, UA could activate the SIRT1/PGC-1α signaling pathway to protect mitochondrial function and alleviate cell senescence and IDD in vivo and vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Zhi Shi
- Department of Orthopedic, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116000, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jun-Wu Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ping-Chuan Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Bo Han
- Department of Orthopedic, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100020, China
| | - Xu-Hua Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Changzheng Hospital of The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200003, China
| | - Yong-Xin Ren
- Department of Orthopedics, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xin-Min Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao-Fei Cheng
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedics Implants, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225000, Jiangsu Province, China
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Hsiao KY, Li WC, Chang CH, Lin MHC, Yang JT, Wang PC, Chen KH. An Evaluation of the ACEP Guideline for Mild Head Injuries in Taiwan. HONG KONG J EMERG ME 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/102490791702400204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an important issue in the emergency department. In the United States, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) published clinical guideline to select patients with mild head injuries for head computed tomography (CT) scans in 2008. The aim of this study was to identify the possible benefits of compliance with these guidelines for mild head injury patients in Taiwan. Method This was a secondary analysis on our previous study published for association of hypertension and head injuries. In our previous study, we collected data about 1290 patients with head injuries who received brain CT scans in the emergency department from September 2012 to August 2013 for a study regarding the association between head injury and hypertension. In present study, we subjected this data to further analysis to try to validate the ACEP clinical policy for mild head injuries. Results Of these 1,290 patients, 154 were found to have brain haemorrhage on the initial brain CT scan, and 5 were in need of neurosurgical intervention. A total of 859 patients met the ACEP guideline criteria, and 117 of these had brain haemorrhages. The sensitivity and specificity of the ACEP guideline to predict brain haemorrhage were 75.97% (95% confidence interval [CI], 68.44% to 82.48%) and 34.68% (95% CI, 31.91% to 37.53%), respectively. In predicting neurosurgical intervention, the sensitivity and specificity of the guideline were 100% (95% CI, 47.82% to 100%) and 33.54% (95% CI, 30.96% to 36.2%), respectively. Conclusion Although adoption of the ACEP clinical policy may reduce the number of brain CT scans in mild head injury patients who may need neurosurgical interventions, it is not a good selection tool in Taiwan.
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Affiliation(s)
- KY Hsiao
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine; and Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Department of Nursing, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - WC Li
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Department of Occupation Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - CH Chang
- Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, College of Nursing &the Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion Research Center, Chiayi Campus, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - MHC Lin
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - JT Yang
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Chiayi; and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Tao-Yuan, Taiwan
| | - PC Wang
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - KH Chen
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Tao-Yuan; and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chiayi, Taiwan
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Abstract
Karst mountainous ecosystems are associated with karst rocky desertification (KRD), which can greatly impact soil structure and function. Despite the importance of soil microbes as a major factor maintaining ecosystem stability, we know little about the effect on soil fungal communities of KRD in karst regions. We investigated this relationship across a gradient of KRD soils from Guizhou, China by polymerase chain reaction and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE). Fungal diversity indices (Shannon-Wiener, richness, and evenness) significantly differed (P < 0.05) based on KRD severity, being lowest in moderately affected areas. Cluster analysis showed that the five sites examined clustered into two main groups according to KRD grade (high and low). Moreover, a homology search using sequences recovered from PCR-DGGE bands showed that the dominant fungi in each community varied remarkably, and included Aspergillus, Aphanoascus, Blastomyces, Fusarium, Glomus, Geomyces, Gibberella, Mortierella, Tetracladium, and Tumularia species, and an unclassified group. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate that KRD has a significant impact on soil fungal communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guiyang, China
| | - B T Mo
- Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guiyang, China
| | - Y Chen
- Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guiyang, China
| | - Q F Zeng
- Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guiyang, China
| | - L B Wang
- Research Institute of Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing, China
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Wang PC, Zhao LL, Mo BT, Zhang Y, Chen J, Wang LB. Genetic diversity of Ceratoides arborescens, a species endemic to China, detected by inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR). Genet Mol Res 2015; 14:5658-66. [PMID: 26125764 DOI: 10.4238/2015.may.25.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
In order to investigate genetic diversity and population structure of Ceratoides arborescens, six populations were selected from different steppe types in Inner Mongolia grasslands of China. Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers were used to assess the genetic diversity within and among natural populations of C. arborescens. Thirteen ISSR primers generated 154 discernible DNA bands, of which 151 (98.05%) were polymorphic. High genetic diversity was detected at the species level [percentage of polymorphic loci (PPB) = 98.05%; H = 0.2984; I = 0.4557], whereas, relatively low genetic diversity existed within populations (PPB = 80.62%; H = 0.2675; I = 0.4031). Analysis of molecular variance showed that variation existed mainly within populations (73.25%) rather than among populations (26.75%), which was in line with the high level of gene flow (Nm = 4.3332). The Mantel test found no significant correlation between genetic distance and geographic distance (r = 0.7522, P < 0.05). Six populations were clustered into two main groups, a desert steppe group and a typical steppe group.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guiyang, China
| | - L L Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - B T Mo
- Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guiyang, China
| | - Y Zhang
- Guizhou Institute of Prataculture, Guiyang, China
| | - J Chen
- Research Institute of Forestry, Chinese Academy Forestry, Beijing, China
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Hsu SY, Wang PC, Yang TH, Lin TF, Hsu SH, Hsu CJ. Auditory efferent dysfunction in normal-hearing chronic idiopathic tinnitus. B-ENT 2013; 9:101-109. [PMID: 23909116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the function of the auditory efferent system in patients with chronic idiopathic tinnitus, but normal pure-tone audiograms. METHODS We studied 15 subjects with normal hearing that had experienced either unilateral or bilateral persistent tinnitus for at least 3 months. The ears of the 15 subjects were classified into tinnitus-positive-ear (TPE) and tinnitus-negative-ear (TNE) groups. The control-ear group (CE) comprised the ears of 15 subjects with normal hearing and no tinnitus. We measured different types of otoacoustic emissions (OAEs), including spontaneous (SOAEs), transient evoked (TEOAEs), and distortion product (DPOAEs). We also analyzed contralateral suppression of OAEs and auditory brainstem responses (ABRs). Data were compared among TPE, TNE, and CE groups. RESULTS The data associated with cochlear mechanics, including the prevalence of SOAEs, the number of SOAE peaks, and the overall TEOAE responses in the absence of a contralateral stimulus, were not significantly different among the TPE, TNE, and CE groups. In the TPE group, contralateral stimuli failed to significantly suppress overall TEOAEs, and contralateral suppression of DPOAEs was significantly reduced over a limited frequency range. Furthermore, the TPE group showed prolonged latencies in waves III and V of ABRs. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that abnormal contralateral suppression of OAEs and ABRs indicated a dysfunction in the ipsilateral efferent medial olivocochlear system; this might play a role in normal-hearing tinnitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Hsu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Wan TK, Chen JT, Wang PC. EMG-guided salpingopharyngeus Botox injection for palatal myoclonus. B-ENT 2013; 9:67-69. [PMID: 23641594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Palatal myoclonus (PM) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements of the soft palate musculature causing objective clicking tinnitus. Two forms are recognized as distinct clinical entities, with poorly understood pathogenesis: essential and symptomatic PM. The intrusive nature of the tinnitus prompts patients to seek medical advice. Conventional medical treatments with anxiolytics, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants have limited efficacy in these patients. In this case report, electromyography-guided injection of botulinum toxin type A (Botox; Allergan, Irvine, CA, USA) to the involved salpingopharyngeus and tensor veli palatini yielded satisfactory results with minimal temporary adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- T K Wan
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Wu YF, Wang PC, Hsiao CT, Hsiao KY, Chen IC. Risk Factors of Acute ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients without Chest Pain. HONG KONG J EMERG ME 2012. [DOI: 10.1177/102490791201900204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction To identify factors associated with ST-segment myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients who had no chest pain, and to improve recognition of STEMI patients without presentation of chest pain in the emergency department (ED). Method Clinical characteristics and presentations were recorded in patients diagnosed with STEMI in the ED in a retrospective study of patients treated from 2006 to 2009. Patients with and without chest pain were compared according to clinical features. Results Among 260 STEMI patients, 12.7% of patients had no chest pain presentation in the ED. Syncope, epigastric pain, and dyspnea accounted for more than 60% of symptoms in STEMI patients without chest pain. Diabetes mellitus (DM), cerebrovascular accident (CVA), and old age were risk factors for STEMI patients without chest pain. Conclusions DM, CVA, and elderly patients are more likely to be without chest pain when STEMI occurred.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - PC Wang
- Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Puzih City, Chiayi, Taiwan, ROC
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Lai PH, Chang HC, Chuang TC, Chung HW, Li JY, Weng MJ, Fu JH, Wang PC, Li SC, Pan HB. Susceptibility-weighted imaging in patients with pyogenic brain abscesses at 1.5T: characteristics of the abscess capsule. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2012; 33:910-4. [PMID: 22282449 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a2866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE SWI is a high-resolution 3D, fully velocity-compensated gradient-echo sequence that uses both magnitude and phase data. The purpose of this study was to investigate the phase behavior of the capsule of pyogenic brain abscesses with noncontrast SWI. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fourteen patients with pyogenic brain abscesses were studied at 1.5T. In all of the patients, SWI images were obtained and reviewed in addition to conventional MR images. Phase values within the abscess capsule were measured and compared with those from the abscess cavities and contralateral normal white matter using 1-way repeated measures ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni analysis. RESULTS SWI phase images showed mild hypointesity in 6 patients, isointensity in 3 patients, and mixed iso- to mild hypointensity in 5 patients. The means of phase in the cavity, rim of abscesses, and contralateral normal white matter were -7.552 × 10(-3) ± 0.024, -0.105 ± 0.080, and +0.029 ± 0.011 radians, respectively. Post hoc comparisons showed significant differences between any pair of the 3 regions (abscess cavity, rim capsule, and normal white matter) in SWI (all Ps < .005). CONCLUSIONS SWI phase imaging shows evidence of paramagnetic substances in agreement with the presence of free radicals from phagocytosis. SWI may provide additional information valuable in the characterization of pyogenic brain abscesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- P H Lai
- Department of Radiology, Veterans General Hospital-Kaohsiung, 386 Ta-Chung First Rd., Kaohsiung, Taiwan 813, Republic of China.
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13
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Wang PC, Ritz B, Harrison R, Janowitz I, Rempel D. A Field Trial of An Ergonomic Chair to Reduce the Neck and Shoulder Pain in Sewing Machine Operators in Los Angeles. Am J Epidemiol 2006. [DOI: 10.1093/aje/163.suppl_11.s216-d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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14
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Wang PC, Rempel D, Harrison R, Janowitz I, Ritz B. Recovery Pattern of Neck and Shoulder Pain Among Sewing Machine Operators. Am J Epidemiol 2006. [DOI: 10.1093/aje/163.suppl_11.s217-a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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15
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Abstract
Objective: We report our technique and results for endoscopy-aided CO2 laser therapy for the treatment of intractable granular myringitis, as an out-patient office procedure.Materials and methods: A total of 21 patients (14 women and seven men; mean age 32.6 years) were retrospectively reviewed, all of whom suffered from intractable granular myringitis and had undergone endoscopy-aided laser treatment. Granulation tissue was vaporized for one to two seconds with a CO2 laser (spot size 0.5–1 mm with a power setting of 5–10 W in continuous mode). The mean follow-up period was 11 months.Results: Eighteen of the 21 patients (85 per cent) were cured after a single treatment. Three patients with the diffuse form of the disease required repeat laser treatments coupled with self-irrigation with a diluted vinegar solution. We noted no perforations of patients' tympanic membranes after laser vaporization. We also observed no recurrences over follow-up periods ranging from three months to 2.6 years. Our laser procedure produced no adverse effect on hearing thresholds, nor were any other complications observed.Conclusion: Our results suggest that endoscopy-aided CO2 laser ablation is a reliable and minimally invasive method associated with low rates of recurrence and a low incidence of complications. It can be conducted as an office procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Jang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea, and Department of Otolaryngology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Wang PC, Ritz B, Rempel D, Harrison R, Chan J, Janowitz I. 333-S: Work Organization and Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders for Sewing Machine Operators in Garment Industry. Am J Epidemiol 2005. [DOI: 10.1093/aje/161.supplement_1.s84] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- UCLA Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - B Ritz
- UCLA Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - D Rempel
- UCLA Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - R Harrison
- UCLA Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - J Chan
- UCLA Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - I Janowitz
- UCLA Epidemiology, Los Angeles, CA 90095
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Fang TJ, Li HY, Shue CW, Lee LA, Wang PC. Efficacy of radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction of the soft palate in the treatment of snoring. Int J Clin Pract 2003; 57:769-72. [PMID: 14686565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Traditional surgery for snoring often leads to intolerable postoperative pain. A new surgical treatment, radiofrequency volumetric tissue reduction (RVTR) of the soft palate, was carried out and its effect and safety in the management of snoring were evaluated. Thirty-two patients received a single treatment of RVTR with a mean follow-up period of 4.5 months. All patients were assessed by a questionnaire using the Snore Outcomes Survey (SOS) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Postoperative pain, speech and swallowing disturbances were also evaluated. The postoperative scores of SOS and ESS all significantly improved (p<0.05). Postoperative pain, speech and swallowing disturbances were all mild 1-3 days after treatment. With the success of treatment defined as a postoperative snoring index (SI) of <3 or a reduction of the SI by >5 points by the visual analogue scale, the success rate was 81.3% in patients with a respiratory disturbance index (RDI) of <20, and 50% in those with an RDI of >20. We conclude that RVTR of the soft palate is an effective treatment for snoring, resulting in only mild postoperative discomfort. A patient whose RDI was <20 had a higher success rate with a single RVTR treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- T J Fang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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Shimada J, Suzuki Y, Kim SJ, Wang PC, Matsumura M, Kojima S. Transactivation via RAR/RXR-Sp1 interaction: characterization of binding between Sp1 and GC box motif. Mol Endocrinol 2001; 15:1677-92. [PMID: 11579201 DOI: 10.1210/mend.15.10.0707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulation of Sp1 activity by nuclear receptors is a novel mechanism by which fat-soluble hormones regulate gene expression. We previously established that upon autoinduction of RARs by RA, RARs/RXRs physically interact with Sp1, potentiate Sp1 binding to the GC box motifs, and thus enhance transactivation of the urokinase promoter, which lacks a canonical RAR-responsive element/RXR-responsive element. Here, we examined whether a similar mechanism might participate in transcriptional regulation of other key RA-inducible genes in endothelial cells and characterized binding between Sp1 and GC box motifs. Northern blot analyses showed that in addition to urokinase, after induction of RARs, RA up-regulates GC-rich region-dependent mRNA expression of transglutaminase, TGF beta 1, and types I and II TGF beta receptors. RA failed to alter the expression of Sp1 at both mRNA and protein levels. Reporter and gel shift assays and Western blot analyses suggested that either RA-treatment or RAR/RXR-overexpression enhances transactivation of these genes through a GC-rich region and strengthens the affinity of Sp1 to GC box motifs, accompanying a potential conformational change of Sp1 as reflected in its increased immunogenicity. Detailed analyses of the GC box motifs within the urokinase and other promoters indicate that interaction between RAR/RXR and Sp1 does not occur in the presence of nonfunctional GC box motifs containing five tandem purine or pyrimidine bases at the 3'-flanking region of hexanucleotide core sequence. These findings provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying RARE/RXRE-independent transactivation of RA-inducible gene promoters.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Shimada
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Sciences, Tsukuba Institute, RIKEN, Koyadai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
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Abstract
The concept of microfluidics has significantly influenced the design and the implementation of modern bioanalytical systems due to the fact that these miniaturized devices can handle and manipulate samples in a much more efficient way than conventional instruments. In an analogy to the development of microelectronics, increasingly sophisticated devices with greater functionalities have become one of the major goals being pursued in the area of micrototal analysis systems. The incorporation of polymeric membranes into microfluidic networks has therefore been employed in an effort to enhance the functionalities of these microfabricated devices. These commercially available membranes are porous, flexible, mechanically robust and compatible with plastic microfluidic networks. The large surface area-to-volume ratio of porous membrane media is particularly important for achieving rapid buffer exchange during microdialysis and obtaining ultrahigh concentration of adsorbed enzymes for various biochemical reactions. Furthermore, the membrane pore diameter in the sub-microm range eliminates the constraints of diffusional mass-transfer resistance for performing chiral separation using adsorbed protein as the chiral stationary phase. A review on the recent advancement in the integration of polymeric membranes with microfluidic networks is presented for their widespread applications in bioanalytical chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Maryland, College Park, USA
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20
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Abstract
The application of the field-effect for direct control of electroosmosis in a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based microfluidic system, constructed on a silicon wafer with a 2.0 microm electrically insulating layer of silicon dioxide, is demonstrated. This microfluidic system consists of a 2.0 cm open microchannel fabricated on a PDMS slab, which can reversibly adhere to the silicon wafer to form a hybrid microfluidic device. Aside from mechanically serving as a robust bottom substrate to seal the channel and support the microfluidic system, the silicon wafer is exploited to achieve field-effect flow control by grounding the semiconductive silicon medium. When an electric field is applied through the channel, a radial electric potential gradient is created across the silicon dioxide layer that allows for direct control of the zeta potential and the resulting electroosmotic flow (EOF). By configuring this microfluidic system with two power supplies at both ends of the microchannel, the applied electric potentials can be varied for manipulating the polarity and the magnitude of the radial electric potential gradient across the silicon dioxide layer. At the same time, the longitudinal potential gradient through the microchannel, which is used to induce EOF, is held constant. The results of EOF control in this hybrid microfluidic system are presented for phosphate buffer at pH 3 and pH 5. It is also demonstrated that EOF control can be performed at higher solution pH of 6 and 7.4 by modifying the silicon wafer surface with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) prior to assembly of the hybrid microfluidic system. Results of EOF control from this study are compared with those reported in the literature involving the use of other microfluidic devices under comparable solution conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Buch
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Maryland, College Park, USA
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21
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Abstract
The concept of microfluidics has significantly influenced the design and the implementation of modern bioanalytical systems due to the fact that these miniaturized devices can handle and manipulate samples in a much more efficient way than conventional instruments. In an analogy to the development of microelectronics, increasingly sophisticated devices with greater functionalities have become one of the major goals being pursued in the area of micrototal analysis systems. The incorporation of polymeric membranes into microfluidic networks has therefore been employed in an effort to enhance the functionalities of these microfabricated devices. These commercially available membranes are porous, flexible, mechanically robust and compatible with plastic microfluidic networks. The large surface area-to-volume ratio of porous membrane media is particularly important for achieving rapid buffer exchange during microdialysis and obtaining ultrahigh concentration of adsorbed enzymes for various biochemical reactions. Furthermore, the membrane pore diameter in the sub-microm range eliminates the constraints of diffusional mass-transfer resistance for performing chiral separation using adsorbed protein as the chiral stationary phase. A review on the recent advancement in the integration of polymeric membranes with microfluidic networks is presented for their widespread applications in bioanalytical chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry University of Maryland, College Park, USA
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22
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the prophylactic effect of dexamethasone on postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in patients undergoing tympanomastoid surgery. STUDY DESIGN Eighty patients (n = 40 in each of two groups) undergoing tympanomastoid surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. METHODS After tracheal intubation, group 1 received 10 mg dexamethasone intravenously, whereas group 2 received saline intravenously. Several parameters concerning with the occurrence of PONV were evaluated. RESULTS We found that dexamethasone reduced the total incidence of nausea and vomiting by 45%, with a 95% confidence interval of 26% to 64% (P <.001). Furthermore, dexamethasone reduced the incidence of vomiting episodes >4 times and the incidence of patients requiring rescue antiemetics (P <.05). CONCLUSION Dexamethasone at a dosage of 10 mg administered intravenously is effective in preventing PONV in patients undergoing tympanomastoid surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y H Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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23
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Chen SC, Lin YD, Liaw LL, Wang PC. Lactococcus garvieae infection in the giant freshwater prawn Macrobranchium rosenbergii confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and 16S rDNA sequencing. Dis Aquat Organ 2001; 45:45-52. [PMID: 11411643 DOI: 10.3354/dao045045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
An epizootic bacterial infection in the giant freshwater prawn Macrobranchium rosenbergii occurred in Taiwan from May to June 1999. The cumulative mortality was approximately 30 to 75%. The diseased prawns showed opaque and whitish muscles and were approximately 2 mo old with total lengths from 5 to 6 cm. Histopathologically, they showed marked edema and necrotic lesions with inflammation in the muscles and hepatopancreas. Bacteria isolated using brain heart infusion medium or tryptic soy agar were Gram-positive and ovoid. Three isolates from diseased prawns at different farms were tested using the API 20 Strepsystem and conventional tests and identified as Lactococcus garvieae. Experimental infections with these isolates gave gross signs and histopathological changes similar to those seen in the naturally infected prawns. The LD50 value of isolate MR1 was 6.6 x 10(5) colony forming units/prawn. Identification of MR1 was confirmed by a PCR assay for L. garvieae that gave the expected amplicon of 1100 bp. In addition, its 16S rDNA sequence (GenBank accession number AF283499) gave 99% sequence identity to Enterococcus seriolicida (synonym L. garvieae; GenBank accession number AF061005). This is the first report of confirmed L. garvieae infection in prawn aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- S C Chen
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Sciences and Technology, Taiwan, ROC.
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24
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Abstract
For this work, two different plastic microfluidic devices are designed and fabricated for applications in high-throughput residue analysis of food contaminants and drug screening of small-molecule libraries. Microfluidic networks on copolyester and poly(dimethylsiloxane) substrates are fabricated by silicon template imprinting and capillary molding techniques. The first device is developed to perform affinity capture, concentration, and direct identification of targeted compounds using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Poly(vinylidene fluoride) membranes sandwiched between the imprinted copolyester microchannels in an integrated platform provide continuous affinity dialysis and concentration of a reaction mixture containing aflatoxin B1 antibody and aflatoxins. The second microfluidic device is composed of microchannels on the poly(dimethylsiloxane) substrates. The device is designed to perform miniaturized ultrafiltration of affinity complexes of phenobarbital antibody and barbiturates, including the sequential loading, washing, and dissociation steps. These microfabricated devices not only significantly reduce dead volume and sample consumption but also increase the detection sensitivity by at least 1-2 orders of magnitude over those reported previously. Improvements in detection sensitivity are attributed to analyte preconcentration during the affinity purification step, limited analyte dilution in the microdialysis junction, minimal sample loss, and the amenability of ESI-MS to nanoscale sample flow rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Jiang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, College Park 20742, USA
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25
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Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Abdominal wall or parastomal hernias following major genitourinary or abdominal surgery are a significant surgical problem. Open surgical repair is difficult because of adhesion formation and poor definition of the hernia fascial edges. Laparoscopic intervention has allowed effective correction of these abdominal wall hernias. PATIENTS AND METHODS From November 1997 to June 2000, 14 male and 3 female patients underwent laparoscopic abdominal wall herniorrhaphy at our institution. Of these, 13 patients received incisional and 4 parastomal hernia repair. All hernia defects were repaired using a measured piece of Gore-Tex DualMesh. A retrospective review of each patient's history and operative characteristics was undertaken. RESULTS All repairs were successful. No patient required conversion to an open procedure, and there were no intraoperative complications. The average operative time was 4 (range 2.5-6.5) and 4.3 (range 3.75-5.5) hours in the incisional and parastomal group, respectively. The average hospital stay was 4.9 days (range 2-12) for the incisional group and 3.8 (range 3-4) days for the parastomal group. To date, two patients experienced a recurrence of incisional hernias, at 5 and 8 months postoperatively. No recurrences have developed in the parastomal hernia repairs at 2 to 33 months. CONCLUSION Laparoscopic repair of abdominal wall incisional or parastomal hernias provides an excellent anatomic correction of such defects. Adhesions are lysed under magnified laparoscopic vision, and the true limits of the fascial defects are clearly identified. The DualMesh is easy to work with and has yielded excellent results. A comparison with open repair with respect to perioperative factors and long-term success is currently under way.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Kozlowski
- Department of Urology, Stanford University, California, USA
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26
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Abstract
Although hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA has been detected in the human hepatoma cell line, HAGS 2.1, viral and cellular junction sequences have not been investigated fully. To facilitate the analysis of HBV DNA integration sites in HAGS 2.1 cells, a combination of conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and inverse PCR (IPCR) was carried out to identify the junction between the viral and the cellular gene. The HBV integrant and its cellular counterpart sequence were cloned and analyzed. The sequencing data indicated that the breakpoints on the HBV integrant are at nucleotide 2111 of the C gene and nucleotide 1558 of the X gene. The length of the integrated HBV DNA in HAGS 2.1 was approximately 2.6 kb, which includes partial C, P, and X genes and an intact S gene. The cellular sequence flanking the integrated HBV gene was very similar to a human satellite III repetitive sequence with 43 and 56 of GGAAT repeats on the left- and right-hand side, respectively. Although the findings on the viral-cellular junction in HAGS 2.1 cells cannot explain the liver tumorigenesis, the current study shows that by choosing the nearest restriction site, which can be determined by conventional PCR rather than using a unique site within the integrated viral sequence to do IPCR, gives a higher successful rate for cloning and the subsequent analysis of the viral-cellular junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei 112, Taiwan, ROC
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27
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Morgan SE, Kim R, Wang PC, Bhat UG, Kusumoto H, Lu T, Beck WT. Differences in mutant p53 protein stability and functional activity in teniposide-sensitive and -resistant human leukemic CEM cells. Oncogene 2000; 19:5010-9. [PMID: 11042688 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1203865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2000] [Revised: 08/14/2000] [Accepted: 08/14/2000] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
We examined p53 protein stability and DNA damage-induced p53-dependent responses in a human leukemic CEM cell line and two teniposide-resistant sublines, CEM/VM-1 and CEM/VM-1-5 ( approximately 40 and 400-fold resistant to teniposide, respectively). Although all cell lines contain the same p53 mutations at codons 175 (Arg-->His) and 248 (Arg-->Gln), the constitutive levels of p53 were progressively increased with the resistance of the cells to teniposide. By pulse-chase experiments, we found that the half-lives of mutant p53 protein were approximately 12, 17, and >30 h in CEM, CEM/VM-1, and CEM/VM-1-5 cells, respectively. The prolonged half-lives of p53 in these cells is consistent with the fact that the protein harbors the indicated mutations. Of note, however, is the fact that the increased p53 protein half-lives in the two drug-resistant cell lines corresponds to a proportional decrease in MDM2 protein levels but an increase in p53-MDM2 binding interactions. This suggests that MDM2-mediated p53 degradation may be altered in our leukemic cell lines. The DNA damage-induced p53 response is fully functional in the drug-sensitive CEM cells containing a mutant p53, but this pathway is attenuated in the drug-resistant cells. Specifically, while the mutant p53 was phosphorylated at serine-15 in response to ionizing radiation in all these cell lines, mutant p53 induction in response to teniposide or ionizing radiation and induction of the p53-target genes, p21 and GADD45 only occurred in the drug-sensitive CEM cells. As assessed by MTT cytotoxicity assay, CEM cells were also significantly more sensitive to ionizing radiation, compared to the drug-resistant cell lines, and this correlated with p53 induction. Collectively, these results suggest that changes in constitutive mutant p53 protein levels, p53-MDM2 binding interactions, and altered regulation of the DNA damage-inducible p53-dependent pathway may play a role in drug- and radiation-responsiveness in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Morgan
- Division of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, IL 60607, USA
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Wang PC, Yang KY, Chao JY, Liu JM, Perng RP, Yen SH. Prognostic role of pericardial fluid cytology in cardiac tamponade associated with non-small cell lung cancer. Chest 2000; 118:744-9. [PMID: 10988197 DOI: 10.1378/chest.118.3.744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY OBJECTIVES Cardiac tamponade is a life-threatening complication of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Malignant pericardial effusion signifies advanced disease, but the significance of a negative pericardial fluid cytology in patients with advanced lung cancer is still controversial. The differential diagnosis of cytology-negative pericardial effusion is difficult and sometimes impossible. The purpose of this study is to determine the prognostic role of pericardial fluid cytology in patients with NSCLC and cardiac tamponade. DESIGN Retrospective review of patients with concurrent NSCLC and cardiac tamponade over a 10-year period. METHODS AND RESULTS Eighty-two patients were included in this study. Pericardial fluid cytology was positive in 60 patients and negative in 22 patients. The overall median survival was 74.5 days, and 1-year survival was 7.3%, with no survival difference between the two groups (p = 0.2506). However, there was a significant survival difference after different treatment strategies. Patients receiving systemic chemotherapy survived longer than those receiving local therapy (p<0.001), and these patients, in turn, survived longer than those receiving supportive treatment (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS When patients have concurrent advanced NSCLC and cardiac tamponade, the most likely cause of the pericardial effusion is the cancer itself, regardless of the results of the cytologic examination. Our results suggest that systemic chemotherapy might prolong survival in such patients, but further prospective, randomized study is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Chest Department, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan
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Wang PH, Ying TH, Wang PC, Shih IC, Lin LY, Chen GD. Obstetrical three-dimensional ultrasound in the visualization of the intracranial midline and corpus callosum of fetuses with cephalic position. Prenat Diagn 2000; 20:518-20. [PMID: 10861721 DOI: 10.1002/1097-0223(200006)20:6<518::aid-pd860>3.0.co;2-t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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30
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Uddin S, Majchrzak B, Wang PC, Modi S, Khan MK, Fish EN, Platanias LC. Interferon-dependent activation of the serine kinase PI 3'-kinase requires engagement of the IRS pathway but not the Stat pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2000; 270:158-62. [PMID: 10733921 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.2000.2402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several signaling pathways are activated by interferon alpha (IFNalpha) in hematopoietic cells, including the Jak-Stat and the insulin receptor substrate (IRS) pathways. It has been previously shown that IFNalpha activates the phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3'-kinase via an interaction of the p85 subunit of PI 3'-kinase with IRS proteins. Other studies have proposed that Stat-3 also functions as an adapter for p85. We sought to identify the major pathway that regulates IFNalpha activation of the PI3'-kinase in hematopoietic cells. Our data demonstrate that IFNalpha induces the interaction of p85 with IRS-1 or IRS-2, but not Stat-3, in various hematopoietic cell lines in which IRS-1 and/or IRS-2 and Stat-3 are activated by IFNalpha. In addition, inhibition of PI 3'-kinase activity by preincubation of cells with the PI 3'-kinase inhibitor LY294002 does not affect IFN-dependent formation of SIF complexes that contain Stat-3. To determine whether phosphorylation of tyrosine residues in the IFN receptor is required for activation of the PI 3'-kinase, we performed studies using mouse L929 fibroblasts transfected with mutated human IFNAR1 and/or IFNAR2 subunits of the Type I IFN receptor, lacking tyrosine phosphorylation sites. The serine kinase activity of the PI-3K was activated by human IFNalpha in these cells, suggesting that phosphorylation of the Type I IFN receptor is not essential for PI3K activation. We then determined whether IFNalpha activates the Akt kinase, a known downstream target for PI 3'-kinase that mediates anti-apoptotic signals. Akt was activated by insulin or IGF-1, but not IFNalpha, in the IFNalpha-sensitive U-266 myeloma cell line. Altogether, our data establish that the IRS pathway and not the Stat pathway, is the major pathway regulating engagement of PI 3'-kinase in hematopoietic cells. Furthermore, the selective activation of Akt by insulin/IGF-1 suggests the existence of distinct regulatory activities of PI3'-kinase in growth factor versus interferon signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Uddin
- Section of Hematology-Oncology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60607-7173, USA
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31
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Abstract
Currently, there is no valid, disease-specific outcomes measure to evaluate health impact and treatment effectiveness for patients with chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM). The Chronic Ear Survey (CES) is a new, disease-specific outcomes measure for CSOM that was administered in a prospective manner to 91 patients with CSOM. It was then validated according to established criteria for reliability, validity, and sensitivity to clinical change by correlation with objective data and self-assessment questionnaires such as the Hearing Handicap Inventory for Adults (HHIA) and the generic 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Significant correlations between subscale scores of the CES and audiometric data and between subscale scores of the HHIA and SF-36 were found. The standardized response mean for the CES total score was 0.42, indicating moderate sensitivity to clinical change. Overall, results demonstrated that the CES is a reliable and valid instrument for investigation of health status and health-related quality-of-life outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston 02114, USA
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Yabe I, Horiuchi K, Nakahara K, Hiyama T, Yamanaka T, Wang PC, Toda K, Hirata A, Ohsumi Y, Hirata R, Anraku Y, Kusaka I. Patch clamp studies on V-type ATPase of vacuolar membrane of haploid Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Preparation and utilization of a giant cell containing a giant vacuole. J Biol Chem 1999; 274:34903-10. [PMID: 10574964 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.274.49.34903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A method for obtaining giant protoplasts of Escherichia coli (the spheroplast incubation (SI) method: Kuroda et al. (Kuroda, T., Okuda, N., Saitoh, N., Hiyama, T., Terasaki, Y., Anazawa, H., Hirata, A., Mogi, T., Kusaka, I., Tsuchiya, T., and Yabe, I. (1998) J. Biol. Chem. 273, 16897-16904) was adapted to haploid cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The yeast cell grew to become as large as 20 micrometer in diameter and to contain an oversized vacuole inside. A patch clamp technique in the whole cell/vacuole recording mode was applied for the vacuole isolated by osmotic shock. At zero membrane potential, ATP induced a strong current (as high as 100 pA; specific activity, 0.1 pA/micrometer(2)) toward the inside of the vacuole. Bafilomycin A(1,) a specific inhibitor of the V-type ATPase, strongly inhibited the activity (K(i) = 10 nM). Complete inhibition at higher concentrations indicated that any other ATP-driven transport systems were not expressed under the present incubation conditions. This current was not observed in the vacuoles prepared from a mutant that disrupted a catalytic subunit of the V-type ATPase (RH105(Deltavma1::TRP)). The K(m) value for the ATP dose response of the current was 159 microM and the H(+)/ATP ratio estimated from the reversible potential of the V-I curve was 3.5 +/- 0.3. These values agreed well with those previously estimated by measuring the V-type ATPase activity biochemically. This method can potentially be applied to any type of ion channel, ion pump, and ion transporter in S. cerevisiae, and can also be used to investigate gene functions in various organisms by using yeast cells as hosts for homologous and heterogeneous expression systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Yabe
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan.
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Richards WO, Clements RH, Wang PC, Lind CD, Mertz H, Ladipo JK, Holzman MD, Sharp KW. Prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux after laparoscopic Heller myotomy. Surg Endosc 1999; 13:1010-4. [PMID: 10526038 DOI: 10.1007/s004649901158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is still some controversy over the need for antireflux procedures with Heller myotomy in the treatment of achalasia. This study was undertaken in an effort to clarify this question. METHODS To determine whether Heller myotomy alone would cause significant gastroesophageal reflux (GER), we studied 16 patients who had undergone laparoscopic Heller myotomy without concomitant antireflux procedures. Patients were asked to return for esophageal manometry and 24-h pH studies after giving informed consent for the Institutional Review Board (IRB)-approved study at a median follow-up time of 8.3 months (range, 3-51). Results are expressed as the mean +/- SEM. RESULTS Fourteen of the 16 patients reported good to excellent relief of dysphagia after myotomy. They were subsequently studied with a 24-h pH probe and esophageal manometry. These 14 patients had a significant fall in lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure from 41.4 +/- 4.2 mmHg to 14.2 +/- 1.3 mmHg, after the myotomy (p < 0.01, Student's t-test). The two patients who reported more dysphagia postoperatively had LES pressures of 20 and 25 mmHg, respectively. Two of 14 patients had DeMeester scores of >22 (scores = 61.8, 29.4), while only one patient had a pathologic total time of reflux (percent time of reflux, 8%). The mean percent time of reflux in the other 13 patients was 1.9 +/- 0.6% (range, 0.1-4%), and the mean DeMeester score was 11.7 +/- 4.6 (range, 0.48-19.7). CONCLUSIONS Laparoscopic Heller myotomy is effective for the relief of dysphagia in achalasia if the myotomy lowers the LES pressure to <17 mmHg. If performed without dissection of the entire esophagus, the laparoscopic Heller myotomy does not create significant GER in the postoperative period. Clearance of acid refluxate from the aperistaltic esophagus is an important component of the pathologic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) seen after Heller myotomy for achalasia. Furthermore, GERD symptoms do not correlate with objective measurement of GE reflux in patients with achalasia. Objective measurement of GERD with 24 h pH probes may be indicated to identify those patients with pathologic acid reflux who need additional medical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- W O Richards
- Department of General Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, D-5203 Medical Center North, Nashville, TN 37232-2577, USA
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Wang PC, Merchant SN, McKenna MJ, Glynn RJ, Nadol JB. Does otosclerosis occur only in the temporal bone? Am J Otol 1999; 20:162-5. [PMID: 10100516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS Otosclerosis does not occur outside the temporal bone. BACKGROUND The widely accepted assumption that otosclerosis is confined to the temporal bone has never been tested. It is important to investigate this issue, particularly because of evidence that otosclerosis may be a systemic (genetic) disease that could affect other bones. METHODS Biopsies from 9 to 11 skeletal sites were obtained from 2 patients with clinical otosclerosis. Two hundred forty-one nontemporal bone sections were examined by light microscopy. RESULTS No nontemporal skeletal bone section showed histologic evidence of otosclerosis. The data indicate, with 95% confidence, that the true prevalence of otosclerosis in the extratemporal skeleton of the 2 patients examined was < 3%. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that otosclerosis is unlikely to occur outside the temporal bone. Factors unique to the otic capsule that may predispose it to otosclerosis are lack of bone remodeling and the presence of globuli interossei.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02114, USA
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35
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Abstract
Many virus and transposon DNAs can integrate into the host genome. In this review, techniques, including inverse polymerase chain reaction (IPCR), novel Alu-PCR and vectorette- or splinkerette-PCR are introduced as possible strategies for cloning flanking DNA regions of the integrants. Targeted gene-walking PCR, restriction-site PCR, capture PCR, and panhandle PCR and boomerang DNA amplification are also described. The principles, advantages and limitations of each approach are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- E K Hui
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Life Science, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
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36
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Wang PC, Sharp KW, Holzman MD, Clements RH, Holcomb GW, Richards WO. The outcome of laparoscopic Heller myotomy without antireflux procedure in patients with achalasia. Am Surg 1998; 64:515-20; discussion 521. [PMID: 9619171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We retrospectively reviewed 30 patients with achalasia (18 males, 12 females) undergoing laparoscopic Heller myotomy without antireflux procedure to determine relief of dysphagia and prevalence of postoperative gastroesophageal reflux. Preoperative symptoms were obtained by history alone before 1996 and by standardized questionnaire after September 1996. Twenty-nine patients (97%) had dysphagia, 22 patients (73%) had regurgitation, 21 patients (70%) had weight loss, 7 patients (23%) had heartburn, and 4 patients (13%) had nocturnal aspiration. The first 3 patients were done thoracoscopically, with the subsequent 27 patients performed laparoscopically; 4 cases (13%; 1 thoracoscopic and 3 laparoscopic) were converted. The mean postoperative stay was 1.9 days (1-6 days). One patient underwent repeat laparoscopic myotomy for persistent dysphagia. Twenty-eight patients (93%) were available for follow-up. Patients were asked on a standardized questionnaire to grade their relief of dysphagia, regurgitation, and heartburn. Good to excellent relief of dysphagia was obtained in 25 patients (89%), whereas 3 patients (11%) continued to have significant dysphagia postoperatively. Twenty-four patients (86%) had little or no regurgitation. Four patients (14%) had frequent regurgitation. Twenty-four patients (89%) reported little or no heartburn. Three patients (11%) reported significant postoperative heartburn. Laparoscopic Heller esophagomyotomy without antireflux procedure provides excellent symptomatic relief of dysphagia in patients with achalasia. Early follow-up suggests that minimal occurrence of symptomatic postoperative reflux can be achieved without performing an antireflux procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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37
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Lee CS, Chen KH, Wang PC. Soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor in serum of patients with arthritis. J Formos Med Assoc 1997; 96:573-8. [PMID: 9290265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) induces the production of two forms of soluble receptor (p55 and p75) that are present in human serum at concentrations that increase greatly in inflammatory rheumatic disease, as well as varying among healthy individuals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of soluble TNF receptors in distinguishing different forms of arthritis. Serum from patients with gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis, and normal control subjects was analyzed for p55, p75, and TNF-alpha by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Patients with gout had the highest level of soluble TNF receptor p55, while there was no significant difference in the level of this receptor between rheumatoid arthritis patients and controls. Both rheumatoid arthritis and gout patients had higher soluble TNF receptor p75 levels than osteoarthritis patients and control subjects, but there was no difference in the p75 level between rheumatoid arthritis and gout patients. Osteoarthritis patients had higher levels of p55 and lower levels of p75 than control subjects. The level of TNF-alpha in rheumatoid arthritis patients was higher than in osteoarthritis patients, gout patients, and control subjects. Determination of soluble TNF receptor levels, especially p55, might enable differentiation of rheumatoid arthritis from osteoarthritis and gout. The level of p75 cannot be utilized to differentiate rheumatoid arthritis and gout, in contrast to the results of previous investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Chungli, Taiwan ROC
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38
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Abstract
A non-invasive in vivo 13C-NMR experiment is performed to follow the metabolic pathway of ibuprofen in rats. Detection of possible intermediates and the stereoselectivity of ibuprofen chiral inversion process are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C N Chen
- Biomedical Engineering & Instrumentation Program, NCRR, NIH, Bethesda, MD, USA
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39
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Abstract
We have examined the effect of pretreatment with a potent protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, 1-(5-isoquinoline-sulfonyl)-2-methylpiperazine (H-7), against metabolic alterations induced by sodium cyanide (NaCN), 4.2 mg/kg, in brain of anesthetized male micropigs (6-10 kg). Brain high energy phosphates were analyzed using a 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic surface coil in a 4.7 Telsa horizontal bore magnet. H-7, 1 mg/kg, was given intravenously (i.v.) 30 min before NaCN challenge (H-7 + CN-). Prior to NaCN, H-7, or H-7 + CN- administration, baseline 31P resonance spectra of 1-min duration were acquired for 5-10 min, and continued for an additional 60 min following i.v. NaCN injection, each animal serving as its own control. Peaks were identified as phosphomonoester (PME), inorganic phosphate (Pi), phosphodiester (PDE), phosphocreatine (PCr) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), based on their respective chemical shifts. Without H-7 pretreatment, NaCN effects were marked by a rising Pi and a declining PCr peak 2 min after injection, with only 2/5 of the animals surviving the 60 min experiment. Through a pretreatment period of 30 min, H-7 did not affect baseline cell energy profile as reflected by the 31P-NMR spectra, but in its presence, those changes (i.e. diminishing PCr and rising Pi peaks) elicited by NaCN were markedly blunted; 4/5 of the animals in this group survived the NaCN challenge. It is proposed that H-7, a pharmacologic inhibitor of PKC, may be useful in CN- antagonism, underscoring the role of PKC in cyanide intoxication.
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Affiliation(s)
- E U Maduh
- Pharmacology Division, United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5425, USA
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40
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Abstract
Astigmatism has been suggested to be an important factor in the production and/or progression of myopia. Chickens have been used as a myopic animal model for several years. In the present investigation our aim was to evaluate the importance of surgically induced corneal astigmatism by peripheral corneal incision with compression suture in one eye, the right, of 3-day-old chicks. Vertical incision (2 mm) with compression suture (nylon 9-0, one stitch) induces against-the-rule astigmatism, horizontal incision with compression induces with-the-rule astigmatism. Four groups were studied 1) with one vertical cut, 2) one horizontal cut, 3) two vertical cuts, 4) two horizontal cuts. The eyes were measured by caliper after 8 weeks. Eye enlargements were induced in all groups, however, less by one cut (astigmatism around 5 diopters) than by two cuts (astigmatism 10 diopters, or more). In the latter groups the pattern of equatorial eye enlargement depended on the axis of the induced astigmatism, the greater elongation being associated with the strongest refracting corneal meridian. All considered, the results suggest that significant corneal astigmatism could be another factor in the production of myopia, possibly acting by way of optical degradation of retinal image quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y F Shih
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei
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41
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Chuang NN, Wang PC. Characterization of insulin receptor from the muscle of the shrimp Penaeus japonicus (Crustacea: Decapoda). Comp Biochem Physiol C Pharmacol Toxicol Endocrinol 1994; 108:289-97. [PMID: 7881801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The beta-subunit of the insulin receptor from the muscle of the shrimp Penaeus japonicus exists as multiple subtypes with M(r) of 79,000, 77,000 and 75,000. Only the subunit of M(r) 79,000 is autophosphorylated after the addition of insulin. The autophosphorylation occurred specifically at Tyr residues, as demonstrated by the specific subsequent dephosphorylation by the phosphotyrosyl protein phosphatase from the human placenta. The detergent, Triton X-100, and the metal ion, Mn2+, caused a noticeable enhancement of the autophosphorylation of shrimp insulin receptors from the muscle. Okadaic acid activated the kinase activity of the insulin-stimulated insulin receptor, but not the basal activity of the insulin receptor without the addition of insulin. Further studies comparing the insulin binding of the shrimp insulin receptor in the regulation of kinase activity of the multiple beta-subunit subtypes from the shrimp muscle are under way.
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Affiliation(s)
- N N Chuang
- Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Science, Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
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42
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Wang PC, Vancura A, Desai A, Carmel G, Kuret J. Cytoplasmic forms of fission yeast casein kinase-1 associate primarily with the particulate fraction of the cell. J Biol Chem 1994; 269:12014-23. [PMID: 8163505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Two novel casein kinase-1 homologs, cki1+ and cki2+, have been isolated from Schizosaccharomyces pombe and characterized. Both genes reside on chromosome II and encode approximately 50-kDa proteins that are related structurally and enzymatically to the YCK gene products of budding yeast. Subcellular fractionation experiments demonstrate that Cki1 and Cki2 are both cytoplasmic enzymes that do not overlap in subcellular distribution and that probably play distinct roles within the cell. Although gene disruption experiments show that neither cki1+ nor cki2+ is essential for cell viability, overexpression of cki2 leads to a severe growth defect and aberrant morphology. Cells become round or pear shaped and separate poorly following septation. These results suggest that of the four members of the casein kinase-1 family recognized in fission yeast, one member, Cki2, may contribute to the regulation of cell morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York 11724-2220
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43
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Lin CL, Wang PC, Chuang NN. Specific phosphorylation of membrane proteins of Mr 44,000 and Mr 32,000 by the autophosphorylated insulin receptor from the hepatopancreas of the shrimp Penaeus monodon (Crustacea: Decapoda). J Exp Zool 1993; 267:113-9. [PMID: 8409897 DOI: 10.1002/jez.1402670204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The insulin receptor, purified from the hepatopancreas of the shrimp Penaeus monodon, is a hydrophobic heterodimer of subunits with relative masses (Mr) of 70,000 and 58,000, as estimated by FPLC on Superose 12 and SDS-PAGE. Only the subunit of Mr 70,000 was autophosphorylated after the addition of insulin. The autophosphorylation occurred specifically at Tyr residues, as demonstrated by the specific subsequent dephosphorylation by the phosphotyrosyl protein phosphatase from the hepatopancreas of the shrimp Penaeus monodon. Proteins of Mr 44,000 and Mr 32,000 on the plasma membrane from the hepatopancreas of the shrimp Panaeus monodon were phosphorylated by the autophosphorylated insulin receptor from the shrimp hepatopancreas, but not by that from the human placenta. The detergent, Triton X-100, caused noticeable enhancement of the autophosphorylation of both shrimp and human insulin receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Lin
- Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Science, Institute of Zoology, Academia Sinica, Nankang, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
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44
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Mitchell AD, Wang PC, Song HF, Schmidt WF. Body composition analysis of the pig by magnetic resonance imaging. Basic Life Sci 1993; 60:105-108. [PMID: 8110087 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4899-1268-8_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A D Mitchell
- U.S.D.A., Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD 20705
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45
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Chao WC, Wang PC, Wen M, Chang KC, Wang HL. [Multiple leiomyosarcomas of extremities]. Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi (Taipei) 1992; 50:347-52. [PMID: 1334797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Leiomyosarcoma is an uncommon tumor that rarely occurred in extremity. Multiple leiomyosarcomas in different extremities is even rarer. We report a 90 year-old male veteran who was found to have four leiomyosarcomas, one in right arm and the other three in right thigh. The patient sustained gunshot injuries over right thigh and right arm about 60 years ago in a war with severe wound sepsis due to open communited fracture of the femur. These tumors happened to distribute in the vicinity of the old scars. It was speculated that these multicentric tumors were due to decreased immune surveillance caused by aging and induced by the previous trauma. The literatures were reviewed and the diagnostic methods, surgical treatment and the adjuvant therapy were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- W C Chao
- Plastic and Reconstractive Surgery, VGH-Taichung
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46
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Abstract
Two cDNAs encoding casein kinase-1 have been isolated from a yeast cDNA library and termed CKI1 and CKI2. Each clone encodes a protein of approximately 62,000 Da containing a highly conserved protein kinase domain surrounded by variable amino- and carboxy-terminal domains. The proteins also contain two conserved carboxy-terminal cysteine residues that comprise a consensus sequence for prenylation. Consistent with this posttranslational modification, cell fractionation experiments demonstrate that intact CKI1 is found exclusively in yeast cell membranes. Gene disruption experiments reveal that, although neither of the two CKI genes is essential by itself, at least one CKI gene is required for yeast cell viability. Spores deficient in both CKI1 and CKI2 fail to grow and, therefore, either fail to germinate or arrest as small cells before bud emergence. These results suggest that casein kinase-1, which is distributed widely in nature, plays a pivotal role in eukaryotic cell regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York 11724
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47
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Mitchell AD, Wang PC, Rosebrough RW, Elsasser TH, Schmidt WF. Assessment of body composition of poultry by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy. Poult Sci 1991; 70:2494-500. [PMID: 1784571 DOI: 10.3382/ps.0702494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging and spectroscopy were used to assess body composition of the chicken and turkey poult. The NMR imaging was performed using a clinical, whole-body imaging system operating at 1.5 tesla (T; 63 MHz). Three-dimensional reconstruction of cross-sectional images made along the transaxial plane was used to estimate mass of the Pectoralis muscle of chickens ranging in weight from 140 to 2,760 g. Results indicate that NMR imaging can be used to determine size of the Pectoralis muscle (R2 = .99) in the bird, thus permitting repetitive measurements during the growth and development of the bird. The NMR spectroscopy was performed using an imaging spectrometer operating at 4.7 T (200 MHz). Integral areas of the water and lipid proton peaks of the spectra were compared with the water and lipid content of the whole body as determined by chemical analysis. Regression analysis of measurements made on turkey poults, ranging in weight from 115 to 630 g (n = 6), resulted in R2 values of .94 for NMR water proton peak area and total body water, .93 for NMR lipid proton peak area and total body lipid, and .96 for NMR water proton peak area and total body protein. From NMR spectroscopy of chickens weighing 528 +/- 18 g (n = 6), the relative area of the lipid peak correlated with whole-body lipid (R2 = .97). Thus, whole-body spectroscopy of smaller birds can be used to measure total body water, protein, and lipid content.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Mitchell
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Livestock and Poultry Science Institute, Beltsville, Maryland 20705
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48
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Chen CH, Wang PC. Diagnostic plots in Cox's regression model. Biometrics 1991; 47:841-50. [PMID: 1742442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Two diagnostic plots are presented for validating the fitting of a Cox proportional hazards model. The added variable plot is developed to assess the effect of adding a covariate to the model. The constructed variable plot is applied to detect nonlinearity of a fitted covariate. Both plots are also useful for identifying influential observations on the issues of interest. The methods are illustrated on examples of multiple myeloma and lung cancer data.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Chen
- Institute of Statistical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
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49
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Chen IC, Chang KC, Wang PC, Wan HL. [Versatility of rectus abdominis muscle or myocutaneous flap--report of seven cases]. Gaoxiong Yi Xue Ke Xue Za Zhi 1991; 7:338-44. [PMID: 1856894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The rectus abdominis muscle, due to its strategic location in the abdomen with its dual blood supply and wide arc of transposition, is ideally suited to repair defects over the chest, abdomen, groin and perineum. The muscle is generally based on the superior epigastric artery, deep inferior epigastric artery and their associated capillary communications. From September 1989 to September 1990, at Taichung Veterans General Hospital, seven cases were presented utilizing unilateral rectus abdominis muscle or myocutaneous flap for local or free tissue transfer. The recipient areas included abdomen, groin, perineum, lower leg and a penis reconstruction. Of all flaps that survived, one developed minor skin necrosis causing urethral orifice stricture and urethrocutaneous fistula that later required repair. All cases achieved the surgical goals. There was no donor site infection, nor abdominal wall herniation but persisted wound pain in 2 cases was noted during the follow-up period. All patients resumed daily activity without limitation about six weeks postoperatively. The large skin territory with abundant soft tissue offers versatile flap design. The dissection is simple, speedy and straight foreward. The deep inferior epigastric vessels are long and their calibers are suitable for vascular anastomosis. Usually, the donor sites are primary closed. We recommend this flap as one to be considered in reconstruction planning and as a donor material for free tissue transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- I C Chen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, Republic of China
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50
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Wang PC, Toda K, Ohtake H, Kusaka I, Yabe I. Membrane-bound respiratory system of Enterobacter cloacae strain HO1 grown anaerobically with chromate. FEMS Microbiol Lett 1991; 62:11-5. [PMID: 1851711 DOI: 10.1016/0378-1097(91)90246-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Chromate has been demonstrated to be an electron acceptor in the respiratory chain of anaerobically grown Enterobacter cloacae strain HO1. By using potentiometric titration and low temperature spectroscopy, the spectral absorption of the anaerobic membrane vesicles of this organism in the presence of chromate was resolved into six peaks at 548, 549, 550, 555, 556, and 558 nm in the alpha band of the reduced minus oxidized spectra. The spectra elicited by chromate are attributed to cytochromes c548, c549, c550, b555, b556, and b558. Among these cytochromes, c548 was found to be specifically involved in electron transfer to chromate.
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Affiliation(s)
- P C Wang
- Institute of Applied Microbiology, University of Tokyo, Japan
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