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Lin TY, Hung SC. Frailty and Humoral Immune Responses Following COVID-19 Vaccination among Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis. J Nutr Health Aging 2023; 27:980-986. [PMID: 37997719 DOI: 10.1007/s12603-023-1994-x] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with end-stage kidney disease who are undergoing dialysis have reduced immune responses to COVID-19 vaccination. Frailty is extremely common among dialysis patients and may contribute to the impaired immunogenicity. This study aimed to determine the association between frailty and humoral immune responses following COVID-19 vaccination in hemodialysis patients. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS Adult hemodialysis patients without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection who received a priming dose of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, an adenovirus-vectored vaccine, were assessed for eligibility. Participants were categorized as robust, pre-frail, or frail using the Fried frailty criteria. Humoral responses were assessed 28 days after vaccination by measuring titers of anti-spike IgG antibodies. The primary outcome was anti-spike antibody seroconversion, defined as antibody levels ≥50 AU/mL. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to assess the association between frailty status and the primary outcome. RESULTS A total of 206 participants (mean age 67 ± 13 years, 50% women) were included in the study, of whom 50 (24%) were characterized as frail, 86 (42%) were characterized as pre-frail, and 70 (34%) were characterized as robust. Anti-spike antibody levels were progressively lower with more advanced stages of frailty (P <0.001). Compared with robust patients, a significantly smaller proportion of pre-frail and frail patients developed anti-spike antibody seroconversion (87%, 66%, and 40%, respectively; P <0.001). Frailty was associated with the absence of humoral responses after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, diabetes, coronary artery disease, serum albumin, and lymphocyte count (OR=0.25; 95% CI, 0.08-0.80). CONCLUSIONS Frailty is independently associated with impaired humoral responses following COVID-19 vaccination among hemodialysis patients. Strategies aimed at preventing or attenuating frailty in the dialysis population are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Szu-Chun Hung, Division of Nephrology, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, 289, Jianguo Road, Xindian District, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan. E-mail:
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Lin TY, Liang IC, Chang YH. Erratum to: Kayser-Fleischer ring and sunflower cataract in a patient with Wilson's disease. QJM 2022; 115:572. [PMID: 34718802 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcab242] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chenggong Rd., Neihu District, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
| | - I-C Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chenggong Rd., Neihu District, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
- Program in Nutrition and Food Science, Fu Jen University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Y-H Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chenggong Rd., Neihu District, Taipei 11490, Taiwan.
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Chao CH, Yeh YH, Chen YM, Lee KH, Wang SH, Lin TY. Sire pedigree error estimation and sire verification of the Taiwan dairy cattle population by using SNP markers. Pol J Vet Sci 2022; 25:61-65. [PMID: 35575992 DOI: 10.24425/pjvs.2022.140841] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Information regarding the correct pedigree of and relationship between animals is useful for managing dairy breeding, reducing inbreeding, estimating breeding value, and establishing correct breeding programs. Additionally, the successful implementation of progeny testing is crucial for improving the genetics of dairy cattle, which depends on the availability of correct pedigree information. Incorrect pedigree information leads to bias in bull evaluation. In this study, Neogen GeneSeek Genomic Profiler (GGP) 50K SNP chips were used to identify and verify the sire of Taiwanese Holstein dairy cattle and analyze the reasons that lead to incorrect sire records. Samples were collected from 2,059 cows of 36 dairy farms, and the pedigree information was provided by breeders. The results of sire verification can be divided into three categories: submitted unconfirmed sire, submitted confirmed sire, and incorrectly submitted verified sire. Data on the sires of 1,323 (64.25%) and 572 (27.78%) dairy cows were verified and discovered, respectively. Sires of 1,895 (92.03%) dairy cattle were identified, which showed that the paternal pedigree of dairy cattle could be discovered and verified through genetic testing. An error-like analysis revealed that the data of 37 sires were incorrectly recorded because the bull's NAAB code number was incorrectly entered into the insemination records: for 19 sires, the wrong bull was recorded because the frozen semen of a bull placed in the wrong storage tank was used, 6 had no sire records, and for 12 sires, the NAAB code of the correct bull was recorded but with a wrong stud code, marketing code, or unique number for the stud or breed. To reduce recorded sire error rates by at least 27.78%, automated identification of the mated bull must be adopted to reduce human error and improve dairy breeding management on dairy farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Chao
- Hsinchu Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, 207-5, Bi-tou-mian, Wu-hoo village, Si-hoo Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan
| | - Y H Yeh
- Hsinchu Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, 207-5, Bi-tou-mian, Wu-hoo village, Si-hoo Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan
| | - Y M Chen
- Hsinchu Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, 207-5, Bi-tou-mian, Wu-hoo village, Si-hoo Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan
| | - K H Lee
- Hsinchu Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, 207-5, Bi-tou-mian, Wu-hoo village, Si-hoo Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan
| | - S H Wang
- Hsinchu Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, 207-5, Bi-tou-mian, Wu-hoo village, Si-hoo Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan
| | - T Y Lin
- Hsinchu Branch, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, 207-5, Bi-tou-mian, Wu-hoo village, Si-hoo Township, Miaoli County, Taiwan
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Lin TY, Leu HB. Association of Body mass index and clinical outcomes in patient with coronary artery disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab849.064] [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] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Funding Acknowledgements
Type of funding sources: None.
Background
Most of the world"s population lives in countries in which overweight status and obesity issues cause more morbidity and mortality than underweight status. Mortality increased as BMI increased above 25 kg/m², and the lowest mortality existed in a population with ideal body weight. Recently, the BMI or obesity paradox was widely discussed. The lower future risk was observed in these overweight subjects, not normal weight or lower BMI population, in patients with cardiovascular disease.
Purpose
The association of body weight and adverse outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease, undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), has not yet been clearly established. The purpose of our study was to investigate the outcome of patients undergoing PCI, stratified by body mass index (BMI).
Methods
Moreover, 5,427 patients with established coronary artery disease (CAD) were enrolled while undergoing successful PCI from 2005 to 2015. The primary outcome, or total cardiovascular (CV) events, was the composite of cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and hospitalization for congestive heart failure (CHF).
Results
During an average 65.06 ± 32.1 month follow-up, there were 573 total cardiovascular (CV) events (18.95%), 315 major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) (10.42%), 105 cardiac deaths (3.47%), 169 acute myocardial infarction (MI) (5.59%), 69 ischemic strokes (CVAs) (2.28%), 314 heart failure hospitalizations (10.39%) recorded. There was a "J-shape" curve association between BMI and future adverse events. Being overweight (BMI = 25-29.9 kg/m²) was associated with significantly lower risk of future total CV events (HR: 084, 95% CI:0.72-0.98), MACEs (0.76, 95% CI:0.63-0.93), acute MIs (0.76, 95%CI:0.58-1.00), and CVAs (HR:0.61, 95%CI:0.39-0.95).
Conclusion
A J-shape relationship exists between baseline BMI and future adverse events in CAD patients undergoing PCI, with the overweight (BMI = 25-29.9 kg/m²) group associated with the lowest risk of total CV events.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Y Lin
- Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - H B Leu
- Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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Lin TY, Liang IC, Chang YH. Kayser-Fleischer ring and sunflower cataract in a patient with Wilson's disease. QJM 2022; 114:822-823. [PMID: 34432061 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcab226] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chenggong Rd., Neihu District, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
| | - I-C Liang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chenggong Rd., Neihu District, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
- I.-C. Liang, PhD Program in Nutrition and Food Science, Fu Jen University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Y-H Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tri-service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sec. 2, Chenggong Rd., Neihu District, Taipei 11490, Taiwan
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Qian HR, Lin TY. [Tough choice of surgical treatment for duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumor: pancreaticoduodenectomy or local resection?]. Zhonghua Wei Chang Wai Ke Za Zhi 2020; 23:861-865. [PMID: 32927510 DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn.441530-20200615-00357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The therapeutic choice of duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) has always been the focus of surgeons because of its special anatomy location. So far, surgery is the preferable treatment for primary duodenal GIST, including pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) and local resection (LR). Researches reveal that the prognosis of duodenal GIST is determined by the pathologic factors of the tumor itself, and is not significantly associated with the surgical procedure. The intervention with targeted drugs such as imatinib has given the duodenal GIST more opportunities for LR. Meanwhile, the technique development of the laparoscopy combined with endoscopic surgery and robotic surgery ensures the steps of minimally invasive treatment for duodenal GIST into a new era.
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Affiliation(s)
- H R Qian
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Minimal Invasive Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - T Y Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Institute of Minimal Invasive Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
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Abstract
Abstract
A novel noninstrumented technology (ChemTrak AccuMeter) for the quantitative measurement of analytes in biological fluids was reported at the 1990 Oak Ridge Conference (Clin Chem 1990;36:1591-7). This instrument-free technology has been adapted for the quantitative measurement of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). An in situ lipoprotein separation method has been developed and incorporated into the test for HDL determination. The sensitivity of the assay system has been adjusted so that HDL is measured over a clinically significant range of 250 to 1000 mg/L. This compares to a range of 1000 to 4000 mg/L for the total cholesterol in the earlier reported assay. Like the AccuMeter total cholesterol test, the Accumeter HDL test system is self-contained and consolidates blood separation, lipoprotein separation, and specimen measurement into a single step. The test procedure is simple, and the results are accurate.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Y Liu
- ChemTrak, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA 94086-4520
| | - T Y Lin
- ChemTrak, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA 94086-4520
| | - W Schrier
- ChemTrak, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA 94086-4520
| | - M Allen
- ChemTrak, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA 94086-4520
| | - P Singh
- ChemTrak, Inc., Sunnyvale, CA 94086-4520
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Rawlence M, Filippin AN, Wäckerlin A, Lin TY, Cuervo-Reyes E, Remhof A, Battaglia C, Rupp JLM, Buecheler S. Effect of Gallium Substitution on Lithium-Ion Conductivity and Phase Evolution in Sputtered Li 7-3 xGa xLa 3Zr 2O 12 Thin Films. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2018; 10:13720-13728. [PMID: 29608054 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b03163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Replacing the liquid electrolyte in conventional lithium-ion batteries with thin-film solid-state lithium-ion conductors is a promising approach for increasing energy density, lifetime, and safety. In particular, Li7La3Zr2O12 is appealing due to its high lithium-ion conductivity and wide electrochemical stability window. Further insights into thin-film processing of this material are required for its successful integration into solid-state batteries. In this work, we investigate the phase evolution of Li7-3 xGa xLa3Zr2O12 in thin films with various amounts of Li and Ga for stabilizing the cubic phase. Through this work, we gain valuable insights into the crystallization processes unique to thin films and are able to form dense Li7-3 xGa xLa3Zr2O12 layers stabilized in the cubic phase with high in-plane lithium-ion conductivities of up to 1.6 × 10-5 S cm-1 at 30 °C. We also note the formation of cubic Li7La3Zr2O12 at the relatively low temperature of 500 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rawlence
- Electrochemical Materials , ETH Zurich , CH-8093 Zurich , Switzerland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - J L M Rupp
- Electrochemical Materials , ETH Zurich , CH-8093 Zurich , Switzerland
- Electrochemical Materials , Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) , Cambridge , Massachusetts 02139 , United States
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Chou CK, Lee SS, Lin TY, Huang YH, Takahashi H, Lai CS, Lin SD, Lin TM. Micro-autologous Fat Transplantation (MAFT) for Forehead Volumizing and Contouring. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2017; 41:845-855. [PMID: 28451799 PMCID: PMC5522520 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-017-0883-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Frontal fullness in Asians is often considered to indicate one’s public popularity and leadership skills. Numerous materials and techniques have been applied clinically to recontour or volumize the frontal area, with variable results. The micro-autologous fat transplantation (MAFT) technique proposed by Lin et al. (2nd academic congress of Taiwan Cosmetic Association Taipei,
Taiwan) in 2007 has demonstrated its feasibility in facial rejuvenation. In the present study, we used an innovative instrument to apply the MAFT technique to frontal augmentation with fat grafting and reported the results. Methods MAFT was performed on 178 patients (167 female, 11 male) during a 5-year period starting in January 2010. Fat was harvested by liposuction, processed and refined by centrifugation at 1200×g for 3 min. The purified fat was micro-transplanted for frontal contouring with the assistance of an instrument, the MAFT-GUN. The patients were followed up regularly, and photographs were taken for comparison. Results On average, the MAFT procedure took 52 min to complete. The average amount of delivered fat was 10.2 mL. The follow-up period was 34 months on average. No complications, including neurovascular injury, skin necrosis, abscess, nodulation, calcification or irregularity, were noted. A patient-rated satisfaction 5-point Likert scale demonstrated that 83.1% of all patients had favorable results (48.3% were satisfied, and 34.8% were very satisfied). Conclusion The concept and technique of MAFT has changed fat grafting from an operation with unpredictable clinical results to an easy, reliable and consistent procedure. Furthermore, the use of a precisely controlled instrument enabled surgeons to perform highly accurate micro-fat grafting. In comparison with other strategies for volume restoration, the MAFT procedure demonstrated high patient satisfaction with the long-term results. Therefore, the use of MAFT as an alternative approach to forehead contouring and volumizing was addressed. Level of Evidence IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00266-017-0883-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- C K Chou
- Yuan's General Hospital, No.162, Chenggong 1st Rd., Lingya Dist., Kaohsiung City, 802, Taiwan
| | - S S Lee
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
| | - T Y Lin
- Division of Traumatology, Department of Emergency, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
| | - Y H Huang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
- Charming Institute of Aesthetic and Regenerative Surgery (CIARS), 2F.-1, No.172, Ziqiang 2nd Rd., Qianjin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 801, Taiwan
| | - H Takahashi
- Department of Post Baccalaureate Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
| | - C S Lai
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
| | - S D Lin
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan
| | - T M Lin
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University, No.100, Ziyou 1st Rd., Sanmin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 807, Taiwan.
- Charming Institute of Aesthetic and Regenerative Surgery (CIARS), 2F.-1, No.172, Ziqiang 2nd Rd., Qianjin Dist., Kaohsiung City, 801, Taiwan.
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Wang KM, Lin TY, Chang KC, Shieh MJ, Liu DG, Peng SY. Epidemiology of Enterobius vermicularis infection among elementary school children in Hualien, Taiwan from 2007 to 2012. Trop Biomed 2017; 34:143-149. [PMID: 33592992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Enterobius vermicularis is the most common human intestinal parasite, and its control among school children is an important public health issue. The objective of this study was to document the present situation of E. vermicularis infection in school children in Hualien. The administrative divisions in Hualien county include 13 districts (3 in a mountainous area, 10 in a rural/urban area). Between 2007 and 2012, a total of 41,191 children in 13 districts in Hualien were examined using consecutive 2-day adhesive cellophane paper perianal swabs. Our results showed Enterobius egg-positive infection rates of 5.79% (452/7,089) in 2007, 6.25% (457/7,312) in 2008, 5.37% (385/7,173) in 2009, 4.98% (330/6,804) in 2010, 4.91% (301/6,133) in 2011, and 4.68% (279/5,960) in 2012. Compared to the previously reported national average in Taiwan (range, 1.53-2.23%), the prevalence of E. vermicularis in Hualien is relatively high. The infection rates were 7.55-29.10% in mountainous areas and 0.50- 12.43% in rural/urban areas. All first and fourth grade students in elementary schools in Hualien were selected as study participants. The average infection rate of the first grade students (6.71%) was higher than that of the fourth grade students (4.23%). These results indicate that enterobiasis remains an important parasitic disease among school children in Hualien, especially those in mountainous areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - T Y Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - K C Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - M J Shieh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - D G Liu
- Department of Medical Affairs, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - S Y Peng
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
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Hsu BG, Chen YC, Ho GJ, Shih MH, Chou KC, Lin TY, Lee MC. Inverse Association Between Serum Osteoprotegerin and Bone Mineral Density in Renal Transplant Recipients. Transplant Proc 2016; 48:864-9. [PMID: 27234754 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2015.12.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoprotegerin (OPG) has pleiotropic effects on bone metabolism as well as endocrine function. Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and serum OPG concentration in renal transplant recipients. METHODS Fasting blood samples were obtained from 69 renal transplant recipients. BMD was measured in lumbar vertebrae (L2-L4) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Eight patients (11.6%) had BMD values indicative of osteoporosis, 28 patients (40.6%) had BMD values indicative of osteopenia, and 33 patients had normal BMD values. Increased serum OPG levels (P < .001), decreased body mass index (BMI) (P = .033), and decreased body weight (P = .010) were significantly correlated with low lumbar T-score cut-off points between groups (normal, osteopenia, and osteoporosis). RESULTS Women had significantly lower lumbar BMD values than men (P = .013). Menopause (P = .005), use of tacrolimus (P = .020), and use of cyclosporine (P = .046) were associated with lower lumbar BMD in renal transplant recipients. Univariate linear regression analysis revealed that lumbar BMD was positively correlated with height (P = .016), body weight (P = .001), and BMI (P = .015) and negatively correlated with age (P = .039) and log-OPG (P = .001). Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that log-OPG (β: -0.275, R(2) change = 0.154, P = .014), body weight (β: 0.334, R(2) change = 0.073, P = .004), and age (β: -0.285, R(2) change = 0.079, P = .008) were independent predictors of lumbar BMD values in renal transplant recipients. CONCLUSIONS Serum OPG concentration correlated negatively with lumbar BMD values in renal transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- B-G Hsu
- Division of Nephrology, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Y-C Chen
- Department of Surgery, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - G-J Ho
- Department of Surgery, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - M-H Shih
- Department of Nursing, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - K-C Chou
- Department of Nursing, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - T-Y Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - M-C Lee
- Department of Surgery, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan.
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Chen YH, Huang CW, Yeh PH, Chen JY, Lin TY, Chang CF, Wu WW. A solid-state cation exchange reaction to form multiple metal oxide heterostructure nanowires. Nanoscale 2016; 8:17039-17043. [PMID: 27714036 DOI: 10.1039/c6nr01287f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Metal oxide nanostructures have been investigated extensively due to their wide range of physical properties; zinc oxide is one of the most promising materials. It exhibits fascinating functional properties and various types of morphologies. In particular, ZnO heterostructures have attracted great attention because their performance can be modified and further improved by the addition of other materials. In this study, we successfully transformed ZnO nanowires (NWs) into multiple ZnO/Al2O3 heterostructure NWs via a solid-state cation exchange reaction. The experiment was carried out in situ via an ultrahigh vacuum transmission electron microscope (UHV-TEM), which was equipped with a video recorder. Moreover, we analyzed the structure and composition of the heterostructure NWs by Cs-corrected STEM equipped with EDS. Based on these experimental results, we inferred a cation exchange reaction ion path model. Additionally, we investigated the defects that appeared after the cation reaction, which resulted from the remaining zinc ions. These multiple heterostructure ZnO/Al2O3 NWs exhibited excellent UV sensing sensitivity and efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y H Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
| | - C W Huang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
| | - P H Yeh
- Department of Physics, Tam Kang University, New Taipei 251, Taiwan
| | - J Y Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
| | - T Y Lin
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
| | - C F Chang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
| | - W W Wu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
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Jao Y, Wu SW, Lin TY, Hung CT, Yang PW, Huang CH, Lin CY, Lin WR, Chen YH, Lu PL. Free-flow duration prior as an influential factor on microorganism and endotoxin amount of reverse osmosis water for dialysis. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2015. [PMCID: PMC4474847 DOI: 10.1186/2047-2994-4-s1-p65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Yeh YC, Wu CY, Chao A, Chan WS, Cheng YJ, Sun WZ, Lin TY. The effect of endotoxin adsorber haemoperfusion on microcirculation in septic pigs. Intensive Care Med Exp 2015. [PMCID: PMC4797412 DOI: 10.1186/2197-425x-3-s1-a420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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15
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Lin MJ, Chang SC, Lin TY, Cheng YS, Lee YP, Fan YK. Factors Affecting the Incidence of Angel Wing in White Roman Geese: Stocking Density and Genetic Selection. Asian-Australas J Anim Sci 2015; 29:901-7. [PMID: 26954185 PMCID: PMC4852259 DOI: 10.5713/ajas.15.0456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated stocking density and genetic lines, factors that may alter the severity and incidence of angel wing (AW), in White Roman geese. Geese (n = 384) from two genetically selected lines (normal- winged line, NL, and angel-winged line, AL, respectively) and one commercial line (CL) were raised in four pens. Following common commercial practice, low-stocking-density (LD), medium-stocking-density, and high-stocking-density treatments were respectively administered to 24, 32, and 40 geese per pen at 0 to 3 weeks (1.92 m2/pen) and 4 to 6 weeks (13.2 m2/pen) of age and to 24, 30, and 36 geese at 7 to 14 weeks (20.0 m2/pen) of age. The results revealed that stocking density mainly affected body weight gain in geese younger than 4 weeks, and that geese subjected to LD had a high body weight at 2 weeks of age. However, the effect of stocking density on the severity score of AW (SSAW) and incidence of AW (IAW) did not differ significantly among the treatments. Differences were observed among the genetic stocks; that is, SSAW and IAW were significantly higher in AL than in NL and CL. Genetic selection generally aggravates AW, complicating its elimination. To effectively reduce IAW, stocking density, a suspected causal factor, should be lower than that presently applied commercially.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Lin
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan.,Changhua Animal Propagation Station, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Changhua 52149, Taiwan
| | - S C Chang
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan.,Changhua Animal Propagation Station, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Changhua 52149, Taiwan
| | - T Y Lin
- Changhua Animal Propagation Station, Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Changhua 52149, Taiwan
| | - Y S Cheng
- Livestock Research Institute, Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, Tainan 71246, Taiwan
| | - Y P Lee
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Y K Fan
- Department of Animal Science, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
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Lin TY, Anderson GA, Norheim RV, Prost SA, LaMarche BL, Leach FE, Auberry KJ, Smith RD, Koppenaal DW, Robinson EW, Paša-Tolić L. An adaptable multiple power source for mass spectrometry and other scientific instruments. Rev Sci Instrum 2015; 86:094102. [PMID: 26429459 DOI: 10.1063/1.4930967] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
An Adaptable Multiple Power Source (AMPS) system has been designed and constructed. The AMPS system can provide up to 16 direct current (DC) (±400 V; 5 mA), 4 radio frequency (RF) (two 500 VPP sinusoidal signals each, 0.5-5 MHz) channels, 2 high voltage sources (±6 kV), and one ∼40 W, 250 °C temperature-regulated heater. The system is controlled by a microcontroller, capable of communicating with its front panel or a computer. It can assign not only pre-saved fixed DC and RF signals but also profiled DC voltages. The AMPS system is capable of driving many mass spectrometry components and ancillary devices and can be adapted to other instrumentation/engineering projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
| | - G A Anderson
- GAA Custom Engineering, LLC, Benton City, Washington 99320, USA
| | - R V Norheim
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
| | - S A Prost
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
| | - B L LaMarche
- Hecate Software, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas 76110, USA
| | - F E Leach
- Photochem Technologies, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - K J Auberry
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
| | - R D Smith
- Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
| | - D W Koppenaal
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
| | - E W Robinson
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
| | - L Paša-Tolić
- Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington 99354, USA
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Lin TY, Venkatesan N, Nishioka M, Kyoh S, Al-Alwan L, Baglole CJ, Eidelman DH, Ludwig MS, Hamid Q. Monocyte-derived fibrocytes induce an inflammatory phenotype in airway smooth muscle cells. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 44:1347-60. [PMID: 25255717 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infiltration of fibrocytes (FC) in the airway smooth muscle is a feature of asthma, but the pathological significance is unknown. OBJECTIVE We sought to explore whether FC modulate the phenotype of airway smooth muscle cells (ASMC) in asthmatic vs. control subjects. METHODS Fibrocytes were isolated from CD14+ monocytes from asthmatic and normal subjects. Proliferation of ASMC of asthmatic or normal subjects was analysed by (3) H-thymidine incorporation, cell number counting and Ki-67 expression after treatment of ASMC with FC-conditioned medium (FCCM) or co-culture with FC. ASMC-associated cytokines/chemokines implicated in asthma (TGF-β1, eotaxin, IL-6 and IL-8) were measured in co-culture or transwell culture of ASMC + FC by ELISA. Immunofluorescence staining was performed to localize these cytokines in ASMC. Cytokine secretion was measured in the transwell culture of ASMC + FC, where NF-κB-p65 or ERK1/2 in ASMC was silenced by siRNA. Contractile phenotype of ASMC in transwell culture was assessed by immunoblotting of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and myosin light chain kinase (MLCK). RESULTS Fibrocytes did not affect ASMC proliferation and expression of TGF-β1, eotaxin, α-SMA and MLCK; however, ASMC production of IL-8 and IL-6 was increased in the co-culture and transwell culture by FC. ASMC treated with FCCM were immunopositive for IL-8/IL-6 and produced more IL-8/IL-6. Furthermore, siRNA silencing of NF-κB-p65 or ERK1/2 in transwell cultures of asthmatic ASMC with normal subject FC decreased IL-8 and IL-6 production. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Fibrocytes promoted IL-8 and IL-6 production by ASMC, demonstrating a proinflammatory role for FC and a possible mechanism of the inflammatory phenotype in asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Thoracic Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
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18
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Chen CT, Huang CL, Lin TY. Newly diagnosed human immunodeficiency virus infection in an octogenarian with acute respiratory failure. QJM 2015; 108:493-6. [PMID: 23097389 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcs209] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- C-T Chen
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - C-L Huang
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - T-Y Lin
- From the Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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Chan MC, Lin TY, Chiu YH, Huang TF, Chiu SK, Liu TL, Hung PS, Chang CM, Lin JC. Applying ATP bioluminescence to design and evaluate a successful new intensive care unit cleaning programme. J Hosp Infect 2015; 90:344-6. [PMID: 26028589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This was a two-phase prospective intervention study in the cardiology intensive care unit (CICU) and medical intensive care unit (MICU) and of a public 1800-bed medical centre in Taiwan. In phase I, cleaning efficacy was monitored by ATP bioluminescence after daily morning cleaning, and only 43.9% of 221 tested surfaces passed. The baseline data were used to define an intervention consisting of a new cleaning protocol as well as a new education/training programme. In phase II, following the intervention, 88.1% of 270 surfaces were found to be clean. The combined infection rate in the CICU and MICU showed a statistically significant decrease of 49.7%.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-C Chan
- Infection Control Office, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - T-Y Lin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Y-H Chiu
- Infection Control Office, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - T-F Huang
- Infection Control Office, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - S-K Chiu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - T-L Liu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Science, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - P-S Hung
- Department of Nursing, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - C-M Chang
- Infection Control Office, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - J-C Lin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.
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20
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Lin GY, Lin TY, Lee JT, Yang FC. An isolated cryptococcoma mimicking nasopharyngeal cancer. Infection 2014; 43:129-30. [PMID: 25399354 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-014-0705-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Accepted: 11/08/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G-Y Lin
- Department of Neurology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Sect. 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu, 114, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China,
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Lin TY, Chan MC, Yang YS, Lee Y, Yeh KM, Lin JC, Chang FY. Clinical manifestations and prognostic factors of Morganella morganii bacteremia. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2014; 34:231-6. [PMID: 25107625 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-014-2222-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although Morganella morganii causes a variety of clinical infections, there are limited studies on M. morganii bacteremia after the year 2000. A total of 109 patients with M. morganii bacteremia at a medical center in Taiwan from 2003 to 2012 were studied. Among them, 30.3 % had polymicrobial bacteremia and 75.2 % had community-acquired infection. The most common underlying diseases were hypertension (62.4 %) and diabetes mellitus (38.5 %). The urinary tract (41.3 %) was the major portal of entry, followed by the hepatobiliary tract (27.5 %), skin and soft tissue (21.1 %), and primary bacteremia (10.1 %). Susceptibility testing of M. morganii isolates showed ubiquitous resistance to first-generation cephalosporins and ampicillin-clavulanate; resistance rates to gentamicin, piperacillin-tazobactam, and ciprofloxacin were 30.3 %, 1.8 %, and 10.1 %, respectively. Overall, the 14-day mortality was 14.7 %. Univariate analysis revealed that elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) values [p = 0.0137, odds ratio (OR) 5.26], intensive care unit (ICU) admission (p = 0.011, OR 4.4), and higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores (p < 0.001, OR 1.62) were significantly associated with mortality. The APACHE II score remained the only significant risk factor for mortality in multivariate analysis (p = 0.0012, OR 1.55). In conclusion, M. morganii bacteremia patients were mostly elderly, with one or more comorbidities. Most of the patients had community-acquired infection via the urinary and hepatobiliary tracts. Furthermore, prognosis can be predicted according to disease severity measured by the APACHE II score.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Number 325, Section 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu 114, Taipei, Taiwan
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22
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Chiu KM, Chen RJ, Lin TY, Chen JS, Huang JH, Huang CY, Chu SH. Right mini-parasternotomy may be a good minimally invasive alternative to full sternotomy for cardiac valve operations-a propensity-adjusted analysis. J Cardiovasc Surg (Torino) 2014:R37Y9999N00A140179. [PMID: 24667339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
AIM Limited realworld data existed for miniparasternotomy approach with good sample size in Asian cohorts and most previous studies were eclipsed by case heterogeneity. The goal of this study was to compare safety and quality outcomes of cardiac noncoronary valve operations by miniparasternotomy and full sternotomy approaches on riskadjusted basis. METHODS From our hospital database, we retrieved the cases of non-coronary valve operations from 1 January 2005 to 31 December 2012, including re-do, emergent, and combined procedures. Estimated EuroScore-II and propensity score for choosing mini-parasternotomy were adjusted for in the regression models on hospital mortality, complications (pneumonia, stroke, sepsis, etc.), and quality parameters (length of stay, ICU time, ventilator time, etc.). Non-complicated cases, defined as survival to discharge, ventilator use not over one week, and intensive care unit stay not over two weeks, were used for quality parameters. RESULTS There were 283 miniparasternotomy and 177 full sternotomy cases. EuroScore-II differed significantly (medians 2.1 vs. 4.7, p<0.001). Propensity scores for choosing miniparasternotomy were higher with lower EuroScore-II (OR=0.91 per 1%, p<0.001), aortic regurgitation (OR=2.3, p=0.005), and aortic non-mitral valve disease (OR=3.9, p<0.001). Adjusted for propensity score and EuroScore-II, mini-parasternotomy group had less pneumonia (OR=0.32, p=0.043), less sepsis (OR=0.31, p=0.045), and shorter non-complicated length of stay (coefficient=7.2 (day), p<0.001) than full sternotomy group, whereas Kaplan-Meier survival, non-complicated ICU time, non-complicated ventilator time, and 30-day mortality did not differ significantly. CONCLUSION The propensity-adjusted analysis demonstrated encouraging safety and quality outcomes for mini-parasternotomy valve operation in carefully selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Chiu
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Cardiovascular Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital,New Taipei City, Taiwan -
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- C-L Huang
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, No. 325, Section 2, Cheng-Kung Road, Neihu 114, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Dong QL, Lin TY, Xing XY, Chen B, Han Y. Identification of a symbiotic fungus from blue-green alga and its extracellular polysaccharide. Lett Appl Microbiol 2013; 58:303-10. [PMID: 24261819 DOI: 10.1111/lam.12192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2013] [Revised: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED A previously unknown symbiotic fungus DT06 has been isolated from the single-celled blue-green alga Chroococcus sp. The sequences of ITS1, 5.8S rDNA and ITS2 regions of DT06 have a high similarity with that of Simplicillium (98%), which is closely related to Simplicillium lanosoniveum based on further phylogenetic analysis. However, DT06 produces unusual exocellular crystals with its conidium size twice that of S. lanosoniveum. Hence, DT06 is proposed to be a varietas of S. lanosoniveum and named as S. lanosoniveum var. Tianjinienss. Dong. (Type specimen was deposited at China General Microbiological Culture Collection Center, Number: CGMCC4460.). The striking character of DT06 is its massive production of a unique extracellular polysaccharide, which is composed of glucose and galactose and linked by 1-4 and 1-6 glycoside bonds according to UV, IR and NMR analysis. Therefore, DT06 may represent a new source of bioactive products, and also, its unusual symbiotic partnership with blue-green algae provides a model for investigating the interaction between photoautotrophic and heterotrophic micro-organisms in aquatic ecosystems. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY A novel fungus (Simplicillium) symbiotic with a single-celled blue-green alga Chroococcus sp. and its major primary metabolite have been isolated and identified. These findings broaden the scope of symbiotic fungi and provide a unique extracellular polysaccharide with potential applications in food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q L Dong
- Department of Biochemical Engineering, School of Chemical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
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25
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Affiliation(s)
- M-H Chen
- Department of Neurology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Section 2, Cheng-Gong Road, Neihu 114, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
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26
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Chen YC, Chiu SK, Lin TY, Yang Y, Yeh KM. Metastatic abscess formation in a preexisting chest wall tumor: a rare initial presentation of Klebsiella pneumoniae liver abscess. Infection 2013; 41:1051-2. [PMID: 23526295 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-013-0446-7] [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] [Received: 01/13/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The common infectious agents in the chest wall include Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Actinomyces, fungi, Nocardia, Entamoeba histolytica, and other aerobes and anaerobes. Klebsiella pneumoniae is an uncommon etiological agent. We describe a case of ankylosing spondylitis in a 45-year-old man, who had exhibited a painless lump in the left posterior chest wall for 3 months and who presented with acute-onset pain, erythematous change, and fever in the 2 weeks before admission. Cultures of the blood and chest wall abscess both showed Gram-negative bacilli, which were classified as K. pneumoniae. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed a nonenhancing cystic abscess measuring 4.9 × 6.5 × 6.4 cm in segment 6 of the liver and communicating with the chest wall. Drainage of the liver abscess under ultrasound guidance and open surgical drainage of the chest wall abscess combined with adequate antibiotic treatment resolved the abscess.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-C Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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27
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Lo ST, Wang YT, Bohra G, Comfort E, Lin TY, Kang MG, Strasser G, Bird JP, Huang CF, Lin LH, Chen JC, Liang CT. Insulator, semiclassical oscillations and quantum Hall liquids at low magnetic fields. J Phys Condens Matter 2012; 24:405601. [PMID: 22968955 DOI: 10.1088/0953-8984/24/40/405601] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Magneto-transport measurements are performed on two-dimensional GaAs electron systems to probe the quantum Hall (QH) effect at low magnetic fields. Oscillations following the Shubnikov-de Haas (SdH) formula are observed in the transition from the insulator to QH liquid when the observed almost temperature-independent Hall slope indicates insignificant interaction correction. Our study shows that the existence of SdH oscillations in such a transition can be understood based on the non-interacting model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Tsung Lo
- Graduate Institute of Applied Physics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
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Janapatla RP, Hsu MH, Hsieh YC, Lee HY, Lin TY, Chiu CH. Necrotizing pneumonia caused by nanC-carrying serotypes is associated with pneumococcal haemolytic uraemic syndrome in children. Clin Microbiol Infect 2012; 19:480-6. [PMID: 22591179 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2012.03894.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Streptococcus pneumoniae infection is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. One of the most severe complications of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) is haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS). This study was undertaken to determine the risk factors and role of pneumococcal neuraminidases in HUS in children with IPD. Eighteen cases of HUS and 54 patients with IPD without HUS were identified. The controls were patients with culture-confirmed IPD without HUS. Clinical and laboratory characteristics of the two groups of patients were compared. Bacterial isolates from both groups were serotyped, sequence typed and examined for their carriage of three neuraminidase genes. Necrotizing pneumonia and serotype 3 infection were significantly associated with HUS in children with IPD, suggesting that a severe pulmonary suppurating disease increase the risk of HUS. Serotype 14 was associated with necrotizing pneumonia but not HUS. Children with HUS were more likely to require surgery and had a longer duration of hospitalization. The study identified a significantly higher carriage of a neuraminidase gene, nanC, in the causative pneumococcal isolates from patients with HUS (89% versus 41%, p 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of nanC to predict HUS were 89% and 59%, respectively. In conclusion, necrotizing pneumonia, serotype 3 infection and neuraminidase gene nanC were associated with HUS in children with IPD. The result suggests that NanC could provide an additive effect to NanA and NanB in the overall activity of pneumococcal neuraminidases to expose Thomsen-Friedenreich antigen on various cells in patients with HUS.
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Affiliation(s)
- R-P Janapatla
- Molecular Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taiwan
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Li HR, Huang JJ, Guo HQ, Zhang X, Xie Y, Zhu HL, Zhai LZ, Pu XX, Huang Y, Guo CC, Lin TY. Comparison of entecavir and lamivudine in preventing hepatitis B reactivation in lymphoma patients during chemotherapy. J Viral Hepat 2011; 18:877-83. [PMID: 21054683 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2010.01386.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [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] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
During chemotherapy for lymphoma, the administration of cytotoxic agents and rituximab often results in hepatitis B reactivation (incidence, 14-72%). This study was designed to compare the efficacy of entecavir and lamivudine in preventing hepatitis B reactivation in lymphoma patients. Between January 2007 and February 2009, patients treated in four hospitals in China were screened to identify those most appropriate for analysis. These patients received either entecavir or lamivudine during chemotherapy and for 6 months after completion of chemotherapy. A total of 34 patients received entecavir and 89 patients received lamivudine. Compared with the lamivudine group, the entecavir group had significantly lower rates of hepatitis (5.9 vs 27.0%, P = 0.007), hepatitis B reactivation (0 vs 12.4%, P = 0.024) and disruption of chemotherapy (5.9 vs 20.2%, P = 0.042). All patients with hepatitis B reactivation had B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (stage III-IV). In lymphoma patients under chemotherapy treatment, entecavir is more effective than lamivudine in preventing hepatitis B reactivation. For patients with advanced stage disease, entecavir should be considered the primary preventive therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H-R Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Centre, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Lin TY, Cheng YC, Yang HC, Lin WC, Wang CC, Lai PL, Shieh SY. Loss of the candidate tumor suppressor BTG3 triggers acute cellular senescence via the ERK-JMJD3-p16(INK4a) signaling axis. Oncogene 2011; 31:3287-97. [PMID: 22020331 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2011.491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The B-cell translocation gene 3 (BTG3) is a member of the antiproliferative BTG gene family and a downstream target of p53. BTG3 also binds and inhibits E2F1. Although it connects functionally two major growth-regulatory pathways, the physiological role of BTG3 remains largely uncharacterized. Here, we present evidence that loss of BTG3 in normal cells induced cellular senescence, which was correlated with enhanced ERK-AP1 signaling and elevated expression of the histone H3K27me3 demethylase JMJD3/KDM6B, leading to acute induction of p16(INK4a). Importantly, we also found that BTG3 expression is specifically downregulated in prostate cancer, thus providing a physiological link with human cancers. Our data suggest that BTG3 may have a fail-safe role against tumorigenic progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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Lin TY, Hsiao KH, Yao HW. Design of a novel, one-sided, pedal-activated wheelchair. Proc Inst Mech Eng H 2011; 225:640-7. [PMID: 21870371 DOI: 10.1177/0954411911404113] [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]
Abstract
The present paper proposes the design of a novel, one-sided, pedal-activated wheelchair for patients with hemiplegia or hemiparesis. The design comprises a planetary hub transmission, which is embedded in the hub of the wheelchair, with drive, neutral, and reverse modes. The paper first discusses the structural characteristics and motion transmission of the wheelchair, and then presents the motion design of the hub transmission, followed by assembly and testing of the prototype. The results confirm that the proposed wheelchair and hub transmission can meet users' demands, thus improving comfort and independence.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Southern Taiwan University, Tainan, Republic of China.
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Tsai MH, Huang YC, Lin TY, Huang YL, Kuo CC, Chiu CH. Reappraisal of parenteral antimicrobial therapy for nontyphoidal Salmonella enteric infection in children. Clin Microbiol Infect 2011; 17:300-5. [PMID: 20384700 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2010.03230.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Increasing antimicrobial resistance in nontyphoidal Salmonella (NTS) species complicates the use of antibiotics if indicated. We investigated the impact of antimicrobial resistance on clinical outcomes and discussed how to use antibiotics rationally. Hospitalized children in 2005-2006 with stool cultures positive for NTS were identified. The clinical and microbiological features were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 683 children were included [371 (54.3%) male; 89.5% <5 years of age]. Antibiotics were given to 56.5% of the patients; third-generation cephalosporin was the most commonly used drug class. Cases receiving antibiotics that were inactive in vitro did not have more complications than those receiving antibiotics active in vitro. Complications occurred in 7.9% of the patients, with bacteraemia being the most common (57.4%). Compared to the others, patients with longer febrile duration and higher C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (CRP ≥100 mg/L) were more frequently put on empirical antimicrobial therapy and had more complications. These patients usually had shorter hospitalization and duration of fever if antimicrobial agents that can reach high tissue concentrations in the intestinal mucosa were administered, such as fluoroquinolone or ceftriaxone. It is concluded that adequate antibiotics may be clinically beneficial to a subset of patients with high CRP and longer duration of fever among children with NTS enteritis. To prevent the induction of antibiotic resistance from this therapy, we suggested a short course (3-5 days) of intravenous ceftriaxone for such patients, which would lead to a faster clinical recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-H Tsai
- Department of Paediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
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Huang LC, Ye JC, Hsieh CH, Chen LM, Lin TY, Hung YC, Chang WC. PTEN, tau-AP-3, thymidylate synthase immunohistochemistry scoring expression in patients with uterine leiomyomas, uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignancy potential and uterine leiomyosarcomas. EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 2011; 32:496-499. [PMID: 22053660] [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: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Uterine smooth muscle tumors are frequently classified as benign and malignant. However, an assortment of mitotic counts and nuclear atypia can be indecisive between uncertain malignant potential, and malignant uterine smooth muscle tumors. We applied three immunohistochemical parameters to distinguish between cases of benign, malignant, and those with uncertain malignant histology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
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Huang JJ, Jiang WQ, Lin TY, Huang Y, Xu RH, Huang HQ, Li ZM. Absolute lymphocyte count is a novel prognostic indicator in extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type. Ann Oncol 2010; 22:149-155. [PMID: 20595450 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdq314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND extranodal natural killer (NK)/T-cell lymphoma (ENKL) is a heterogeneous entity with poor survival, requiring risk stratification in affected patients. We proposed absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) as a new prognostic factor in ENKL. PATIENTS AND METHODS we retrospectively analyzed 128 patients newly diagnosed with ENKL. Independent prognostic factors of survival were determined by Cox regression analysis. RESULTS patients with low ALC (<1.0 × 10(9)/l) at diagnosis tended to have more adverse clinical features. Patients with high ALC (≥1.0 × 10(9)/l) at diagnosis had better overall survival (OS; P < 0.0001) and progression-free survival (PFS; P<0.0001), and achieved higher complete remission rates (P=0.001). Multivariate analysis with known prognostic factors showed that ALC, B symptoms and advanced stage were independent predictors for OS and PFS. Using the International Prognostic Index, Prognostic Index for Peripheral T-cell lymphoma unspecified, or Korean Prognostic Index for nasal NK/T-cell lymphoma, the majority of patients were in the low-risk category (with no or one adverse factor). ALC was helpful to differentiate the low-risk patients with different survival outcomes (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS our data suggest that ALC at diagnosis is a novel, powerful predictor of prognosis in ENKL. Immune status at diagnosis might have an important influence on survival in patients with ENKL.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China; Department of Medical Oncology
| | - W Q Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China; Department of Medical Oncology
| | - T Y Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China; Department of Medical Oncology
| | - Y Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China; Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - R H Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China; Department of Medical Oncology
| | - H Q Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China; Department of Medical Oncology
| | - Z M Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China; Department of Medical Oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- W-Y Kuo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center, 901 Chung-Hua Road, Yung-Kang City, Tainan 710, Taiwan
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Hsu FF, Lin TY, Chen JY, Shieh SY. p53-Mediated transactivation of LIMK2b links actin dynamics to cell cycle checkpoint control. Oncogene 2010; 29:2864-76. [DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Wong KS, Huang YC, Lai SH, Chiu CY, Huang YH, Lin TY. Validity of symptoms and radiographic features in predicting positive AFB smears in adolescents with tuberculosis. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2010; 14:155-159. [PMID: 20074405] [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: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
SETTING A cohort of 78 adolescents was selected for evaluation with culture or histologically proven pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) from a tertiary paediatric facility in northern Taiwan. OBJECTIVE To assess the validity of clinical features and radiographic findings for predicting positive smears of acid-fast bacilli (AFB) in adolescents with PTB. DESIGN A retrospective descriptive study of adolescents with a confirmed diagnosis of PTB. Clinical symptoms and chest radiographs were assessed. Univariate analysis identified risk factors suggestive of a positive AFB smear, and the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for these features was calculated using logistic regression. RESULTS Patients who were AFB smear-positive and those who were smear-negative differed significantly on univariate analysis (P < 0.05) with respect to chronic cough, haemoptysis, multilobar or superior segment of lower lobe involvement, cavitations or presence of pleural effusions. Logistic regression analysis revealed that risk factors of positive smear in adolescents with PTB were chronic cough >4 weeks (aOR 13.8, 95%CI 2.3-83.1), lower lobe involvement (aOR 12.6, 95%CI 1.2-134.8) and pulmonary cavitations (aOR 7.7, 95%CI 1.0-57.7). CONCLUSIONS For adolescents with PTB, those suffering from chronic cough for >4 weeks, with involvement of the superior segment of the lower lobe or with cavitary lesions, have a greater likelihood of transmitting tuberculosis due to smear positivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- K-S Wong
- Department of Paediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taiwan; College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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Cheng YC, Huang JW, Lee WC, Kuo LG, Lin TY, Shih MCP. Retrosternal haematoma presenting as cardiac tamponade in a blunt trauma patient. Arch Emerg Med 2009; 26:462. [DOI: 10.1136/emj.2008.063065] [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: 11/04/2022]
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Abstract
Cell cycle progression is monitored constantly to ensure faithful passage of genetic codes and genome stability. We have demonstrated previously that, upon DNA damage, TTK/hMps1 activates the checkpoint kinase CHK2 by phosphorylating CHK2 at Thr68. However, it remains to be determined whether and how TTK/hMps1 responds to DNA damage. In this report, we present evidence that TTK/hMps1 can be induced by DNA damage in normal human fibroblasts. Interestingly, the induction depends on CHK2 because CHK2-targeting small interfering RNA or a CHK2 inhibitor abolishes the increase. Such induction is mediated through phosphorylation of TTK/hMps1 at Thr288 by CHK2 and requires the CHK2 SQ/TQ cluster domain/forkhead-associated domain. In cells, TTK/hMps1 phosphorylation at Thr288 is induced by DNA damage and forms nuclear foci, which colocalize partially with gamma-H2AX. Reexpression of TTK/hMps1 T288A mutant in TTK/hMps1-knockdown cells causes a defect in G(2)/M arrest, suggesting that phosphorylation at this site participates in the proper checkpoint execution. Our study uncovered a regulatory loop between TTK/hMps1 and CHK2 whereby DNA damage-activated CHK2 may facilitate the stabilization of TTK/hMps1, therefore maintaining the checkpoint control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-H Yeh
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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Huang YC, Ho CF, Chen CJ, Su LH, Lin TY. Comparative molecular analysis of community-associated and healthcare-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from children in northern Taiwan. Clin Microbiol Infect 2009; 14:1167-72. [PMID: 19076845 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2008.02115.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
From August 2004 to July 2005, 210 clinical methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates were collected prospectively from 173 children admitted to Chang Gung Children's Hospital in Taiwan. A comparative molecular analysis of the 111 community-associated (CA) isolates from 102 children and the 99 healthcare-associated (HA) isolates from 71 children was conducted. In comparison to the HA isolates (31%), the CA isolates (90%) were more likely to have been isolated from pus (p <5 x 10(-8)). For each patient with MRSA infection, only the first isolate was selected for molecular analysis. The molecular characteristics differed significantly between the CA and the HA isolates (p <5 x 10(-8)). The clone characterized as sequence type (ST)59/pulsotype D (similar to USA1000)/staphylococcal chromosomal cassette (SCC)mec V(T)/Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL)-positive accounted for 69% of the CA isolates, and another clone, characterized as ST239/pulsotype A (Hungary clone)/SCCmec III/PVL-negative, accounted for 45% of the 71 HA isolates. The CA clone of ST59 also accounted for 20% of the HA isolates, including 47% of the 17 community-onset isolates. It was concluded that the molecular characteristics of clinical MRSA isolates from children differed significantly between the CA and the HA isolates in northern Taiwan. However, the CA clone of ST59 was also identified in a substantial proportion of HA isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-C Huang
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Chang Gung Children's Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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Chen NC, Lin CM, Shen C, Lien WC, Lin TY. Redshift of edge emission from AlGaInP light-emitting diodes and correlation with electron-hole recombination lifetime. Opt Express 2008; 16:20759-20773. [PMID: 19065215 DOI: 10.1364/oe.16.020759] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The edge emission from AlGaInP light-emitting diodes showed a red-shifted peak in addition to the peak of surface emission. This shift resulted from the quantum-well absorption of the guided wave. Although the shift degrades the color quality and the extraction efficiency of the device, it helps elucidate many important optical properties of the material and the dynamics of carrier recombination, including the electron-hole recombination lifetime, the optical joint density of state, the spontaneous emission spectrum and the absorption spectrum. A simple concept of the bimolecular recombination is established. The corresponding coefficient can be expressed by a simple formula and was therefore determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- N C Chen
- Institute of Electro-Optical Engineering, Department of Electronic Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, Republic of China.
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Abstract
We used suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) and oligonucleotide microarray to differentiate expression profiles of metastasis-related genes and to evaluate their clinical significance in patients with invasive oral cancer (OCa). Overexpression of the specific genes was confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR). Cells expressing the gene were identified by immunohistochemistry in pathology specimens. Clinical correlation and significance were analyzed statistically. Using these methods, we detected increased expressions of MMP-1, -3, -7, -9, -10 and interleukin (IL)-8 in invasive OCa. Moreover, our data showed that overexpressions of MMP-1, -3, -7, -10 and IL-8 were associated with reduced survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Y Chiang
- Department of Dental Laboratory Technology, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taichung, Taiwan.
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Chen DR, Chu CY, Chen CY, Yang HC, Chiang YY, Lin TY, Chiang IP, Chuang DY, Yu CC, Chow KC. Expression of short-form oncostatin M receptor as a decoy receptor in lung adenocarcinomas. J Pathol 2008; 215:290-9. [DOI: 10.1002/path.2361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Abstract
The aim of the study was to tailor a future Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine campaign and to help perform early primary prevention of HPV infection in Taiwan, where the incidence of cervical cancer is high. A cross-sectional survey was conducted of 826 female students, ages 10, 13, 16 and 19-22 years. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on risk factors for HPV infection. Serum samples were tested for antibodies to HPV 16 capsids using a virus-like particle-based enzyme-linked immunosorbence assay. The age-adjusted odds ratio of HPV seropositivity was calculated for each risk factor by multiple logistic regression analysis. HPV 16 antibodies were detected in 13 (1.6%) of 826 participants. The HPV 16 seroprevalence was 0.35% (1/287), 0.85% (2/235), 3.2% (6/185) and 3.4% (4/119), respectively, for age groups of 10, 13, 16 and 19-22 years. In the multiple regression analysis, the history of having sexual activity was the most significant risk predictor for HPV 16 seropositivity. The seroprevalence of HPV 16 increased dramatically among high school seniors and university students, and was significantly associated with sexual activity. Vaccination against HPV is suggested to be undertaken in early adolescence, before 16 years of age and prior to sexual debut.
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Affiliation(s)
- I J Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Hospital, Department of Health, Taipei, Taiwan
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Lin SM, Lin TY, Chou CL, Chen HC, Liu CY, Wang CH, Lin HC, Yu CT, Lee KY, Kuo HP. Metallic stent and flexible bronchoscopy without fluoroscopy for acute respiratory failure. Eur Respir J 2008; 31:1019-23. [PMID: 18184680 DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00099507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Stent implantation has been reported to facilitate liberation from mechanical ventilation in patients with respiratory failure due to central airway disease. The present retrospective cohort study sought to evaluate the risk and benefit of stent implantation via bronchoscopy without fluoroscopic guidance in mechanically ventilated patients. From July 2001 to September 2006, 26 patients with acute respiratory failure were recruited. A bronchoscope was inserted through a mouth guard into the space between the tracheal wall and the endotracheal tube. A guide wire was inserted via the flexible bronchoscope to the lesion site. The bronchoscope was reintroduced through the endotracheal tube. Under bronchoscopic visualisation, the delivery catheter was advanced over the guide wire to deploy the stent. These procedures were successfully performed in 26 patients, with 22 stents placed in the trachea and seven in the main bronchus. Of the 26 patients, 14 (53.8%) became ventilator independent during their stay in the intensive care unit. Severe pneumonia was the most common cause, in seven (58.3%) out of 12 patients, for continued ventilator dependence after stenting. Granulation tissue formation was found in seven patients during the follow-up period. It is concluded that metallic stents can be safely implanted without fluoroscopic guidance in patients with respiratory failure, to facilitate ventilator independence.
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Affiliation(s)
- S-M Lin
- Dept of Thoracic Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
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Weng CH, Lin YT, Lin TY, Kao CM. Enhancement of electrokinetic remediation of hyper-Cr(VI) contaminated clay by zero-valent iron. J Hazard Mater 2007; 149:292-302. [PMID: 17485164 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2007.03.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2006] [Revised: 03/25/2007] [Accepted: 03/26/2007] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
This paper investigated the effectiveness of incorporating zero-valent iron (ZVI) into electrokinetic (EK) to remediate hyper-Cr(VI) contaminated clay (2497 mg/kg). A ZVI wall was installed in the center of the soil specimen and was filled with 1:1 (w/w) ratio of granular ZVI and sand. Results show that transport of H(+) is greatly retarded by the strong opposite migration of anionic chromate ions, whereupon a revered electroosmosis flow (EO) was resulted and alkaline zone across the specimen was developed promoting the release of Cr(VI) from the clay. Chromium removal was characterized by high Cr(VI) concentration occurred in the anolyte and the presence of Cr(III) precipitates in the catholyte. The Cr(VI) reduction efficiencies for the process without ZVI wall were 68.1 and 79.2% for 1 and 2V/cm, respectively. As ZVI wall was installed, the corresponding reduction efficiencies increased to 85.8 and 92.5%. The costs for energy and ZVI utilized in this process are US$ 41.0 and 57.5 per cubic meter for the system with electric gradient of 1 and 2V/cm, respectively. The role of ZVI wall effectively reducing Cr(VI) contamination and the operation simultaneous collection of Cr(VI) from the electrode reservoirs are two major advantages of this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Huang Weng
- Department of Civil and Ecological Engineering, I-Shou University, Da-Hsu Township, Kaohsiung 84008, Taiwan.
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Chiu KM, Chen CL, Chu SH, Lin TY. Endoscopic harvest of saphenous vein: a lesson learned from 1,348 cases. Surg Endosc 2007; 22:183-7. [PMID: 17705081 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-007-9522-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2007] [Revised: 06/20/2007] [Accepted: 07/07/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endoscopic harvest of saphenous vein is a relatively new technique developed to minimize the wound and postoperative complications. This technique has gained patients' acceptance and become popular in cardiac surgical practices. Because most centers have limited experience with this approach, the authors summarize the clinical profiles of patients undergoing endoscopic vessel harvest (EVH). METHODS Between March 2001 and August 2006, 1,348 patients (945 men and 403 women) with a mean age of 67.2 years (range, 28-89 years) underwent EVH of saphenous vein for coronary artery bypass surgery, peripheral artery reconstruction, and miscellaneous conditions. The EVH technique was performed using the Vasoview system (Guidant, Menlo Park, CA, USA) under the assistance of carbon dioxide (CO(2)) insufflation. RESULTS Technical success was achieved in 98.6% of the cases. Two saphenous veins were discarded because of obvious vein injury. The mean harvest time was 45 min: 68 min for the first 50 cases and 23 min for the last 200 cases. Nearly all the patients (98%) had saphenous vein harvested only from the thighs, whereas only 1.5% of the patients had saphenous vein harvested from the legs. Postoperative wound complications were experienced by 61 patients including 25 tract hematomas, 19 wound dehiscences or poor healing, 16 wound infections, and 1 overlying skin necrosis. Overall, 13 subsequent revisions were required for these complications. Detectable air embolisms occurred for 143 patients and numbness in the saphenous nerve territory for 169 patients. CONCLUSION The findings showed EVH of saphenous vein to be a valid alternative to open saphenectomy, providing excellent surgical results. Therefore, EVH should be considered as the standard of care for saphenous vein harvest.
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Affiliation(s)
- K-M Chiu
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Far-Eastern Memorial Hospital, 13F, 21, Sec. 2, Nan-Ya S. Road, Pan-Chiao, Taipei County, 220, Taiwan
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Chang HJ, Hsieh YP, Chen TT, Chen YF, Liang CT, Lin TY, Tseng SC, Chen LC. Strong luminescence from strain relaxed InGaN/GaN nanotips for highly efficient light emitters. Opt Express 2007; 15:9357-65. [PMID: 19547278 DOI: 10.1364/oe.15.009357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Semiconductor heterostructures represent the most important building block for current optoelectronic devices. One of the common features of semiconductor heterostructures is the existence of internal strain due to lattice mismatch. The internal strain can tilt the band alignment and significantly alter the physical properties of semiconductor heterostructures, such as reducing the internal quantum efficiency of a light emitter. Here, we provide a convenient route to release the internal strain by patterning semiconductor heterostructures into nanotip arrays. The fabrication of the nanotip arrays was achieved by self-masked dry etching technique, which is simple, low cost and compatible with current semiconductor technologies. By implementing our approach to InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells, we demonstrate that the light emission can be enhanced by up to 10 times. Our approach renders an excellent opportunity to manipulate the internal strain, and is very useful to create highly efficient solid state emitters.
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Chen KT, Lin TY, Foo NP, Lin HJ, Guo HR. Traumatic adrenal haematoma: a condition rarely recognised in the emergency department. Injury 2007; 38:584-7. [PMID: 17472794 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2007.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2006] [Revised: 01/06/2007] [Accepted: 01/10/2007] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To delineate the clinical features of traumatic adrenal haematoma, to help emergency physicians recognise the condition early and so to prevent adrenal crisis. METHODS Review of the records of all patients admitted to Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan, with traumatic torso injuries, between 1 August 2003 and 31 August 2005. Of the 305 patients reviewed, 8 had adrenal haematoma. Injury Severity Scores, hospital course, need for intensive care unit admission and surgery or vascular embolisation, and concomitant injuries, were compared between patients with and without adrenal haematoma. RESULTS No adrenal haematoma was recognised in the emergency department. No case of adrenal haematoma needed surgery or vascular embolisation, but each had associated injuries to other internal organs. All eight patients with, but only 106 patients without, adrenal haematoma sustained injuries to more than one internal organ (p<0.01). The mean Injury Severity Scores and lengths of hospital and intensive care unit stays among the two groups were not significantly different. There was no statistical significance in the differences in rates of admission to the intensive care unit, mortality, laparotomy or vascular embolisation between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS Emergency physicians were liable in trauma cases to miss adrenal haematoma, which of itself was a benign condition but was associated with increased internal organ injuries and days in the intensive care unit. Emergency physicians should be aware of the possibility of adrenal haematoma in trauma cases in order not to miss the bilateral condition, which might lead to a deadly adrenal crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- K-T Chen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
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50
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Lin TY, Chan LC, Fan YH, Lin CH, Chow KC, Lin SL, Lan JL, Lin FJ, Chiou SH. Use of a recombinant protein containing major epitopes of hnRNP G to detect anti-hnRNP G antibodies in dogs with systemic lupus erythematosus. Res Vet Sci 2006; 81:335-9. [PMID: 16677675 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2006.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2005] [Revised: 02/17/2006] [Accepted: 02/27/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to express major epitopes of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein G (hnRNP G) for detecting anti-hnRNP G antibodies in dogs with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). HnRNP G cDNA clone was isolated from HEp-2 cells, and a DNA fragment encoding immunodominant region (residues 189-272) of hnRNP G (hnRNP Gi) was subcloned into pET32 vector to construct a prokaryotic expression plasmid named pEThnRNPGi. After induction, Escherichia coli carrying pEThnRNPGi expressed a recombinant protein of 28 kDa, comprising recombinant hnRNP Gi and fusion tag. Purified recombinant hnRNP Gi protein was further analyzed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and its identity was confirmed. Western blot analysis showed that recombinant hnRNP Gi was specifically recognized by anti-hnRNP G positive sera of SLE dogs, and not by negative control sera. In conclusion, recombinant hnRNP Gi protein expressed in this study may serve as a useful reagent to assist in the immunological diagnosis of canine SLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- T-Y Lin
- Graduate Institute of Veterinary Microbiology, National Chung Hsing University, 250 Kuo Kuang Road, Taichung 40227, Taiwan, ROC
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