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Efficacy of Metabolic Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Acad Nutr Diet 2022. [PMCID: PMC9484795 DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2022.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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OBINUTUZUMAB (GA101) VS. RITUXIMAB SIGNIFICANTLY ENHANCES CELL DEATH, ANTIBODY-DEPENDENT CYTOTOXICITY AND IMPROVES OVERALL SURVIVAL AGAINST CD20+ PRIMARY MEDIASTINAL B-CELL LYMPHOMA (PMBL) IN A XENOGRAFT NOD-SCID IL2RGNULL (NSG) MOUSE MODEL: A POTENTIAL TARGETED AGENT IN THE TREATMENT OF PMBL. Leuk Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s0145-2126(22)00211-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Low intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy improved the resistance index of cavernosal artery in venous occlusive erectile dysfunction. J Sex Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.03.437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Requirement of Mental-health Referral Letters for Staged and Revision Genital Gender-Affirming Surgeries: An Unsanctioned Barrier to Care. J Sex Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2022.01.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Supplying Hydrogen Water to Ducks Did Not Influence Ammonia Content and Duck Litter Quality. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2021-1493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/30/2023]
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The use of computed tomography as a first-line imaging modality in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. Hormones (Athens) 2021; 20:499-506. [PMID: 32405929 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-020-00205-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The success of minimally invasive parathyroidectomy (MIP) relies on accurate localization of the abnormal parathyroid glands. Concordant findings on ultrasound (US) and 99mTc-scintigraphy (sestamibi) are currently considered the 'gold standard'. Computed tomography (CT) has also recently been used in preoperative planning. We sought to assess the accuracy of CT for localization of abnormal parathyroid glands in such patients. METHODS An audit of 75 patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) who underwent neck US and CT between 2017 and 2019 at our center as their first-line imaging. RESULTS All 75 patients underwent US and CT and 54 (72.0%) also had sestamibi. CT alone identified a potential target in all patients, of which the location was correct in 63 (84.0%). The overall combined sensitivity of US and CT was 88% (95% CI 78-94) and was higher than the combined sensitivity of US and sestamibi (65% [95% CI 53-76]; p < 0.001). Twenty-one patients (28.0%) had an ectopic gland, and the sensitivity of US and CT was 86% (95% CI 64-96) versus US and sestamibi (57% [95% CI 34-77]; p = 0.016). For adenomas < 1.0 g (n = 36; 48%), the accuracy of CT was 81% (95% CI 64-91) compared with 62% (95% CI 44-77) for US and sestamibi (p = 0.04). The correct preoperative diagnosis of multiglandular disease (n = 9; 12%) seemed to be the most difficult, with similar accuracy for US and sestamibi (40% [95% CI 14-73]) and US and CT (50% [95% CI 20-80]) (p > 0.99). CONCLUSION The combination of US and CT was able to correctly identify the location of the abnormal parathyroid in 88% of patients and, in comparison with US and sestamibi, had better diagnostic accuracy, especially for smaller and ectopic adenomas. This finding suggests that US and CT could be considered as a first-line imaging modality in patients with PHPT considered for MIP.
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ABERRANT HYPEREDITING OF MYELOMA TRANSCRIPTOME BY ADAR1 CONFERS ONCOGENICITY AND IS A MARKER OF POOR PROGNOSIS. Hematol Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/hon.237_2631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Transfer printing of vertical-type microscale light-emitting diode array onto flexible substrate using biomimetic stamp. OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 27:6832-6841. [PMID: 30876260 DOI: 10.1364/oe.27.006832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We report the transfer printing of GaN-based microscale vertical-type light-emitting diodes (μ-VLEDs) using a functional layer and a biomimetic stamp. An oxide-based functional layer is inserted onto the structure of a μ-VLED and used to separate the chip from the μ-VLED wafer by absorbing the pulse of a UV pulse laser during pick-up of the transfer printing process. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based biomimetic stamps have been fabricated to mimic the gecko lizard cilia for improved adhesion and repeatability. The biomimetic stamp has an adhesion force of 25.6 N/cm2, which is 12 times the adhesion of a flat stamp; an adhesion force of 10 N/cm2 or more was maintained after 100,000 repeated adhesion tests. A flexible 10 × 10 prototype array on a polyimide substrate was fabricated, and its bending test results indicated that the strain effect on the forward voltage and the output power was less than 1%. The stable bending test results of the prototype indicate that μ-VLEDs using biomimetic stamps allow the necessary stability for practical transfer printing.
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Alzheimer's disease: insights for risk evaluation and prevention in the Chinese population and the need for a comprehensive programme in Hong Kong/China. Hong Kong Med J 2019; 24:492-500. [PMID: 30232267 DOI: 10.12809/hkmj187244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
With the ageing of the global population, China is projected to be impacted significantly by the rising number of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). A cure for AD is not yet available, so society should be prepared for an increasing AD-related burden. In this review, we examine this impending problem and provide overviews on (a) the magnitude of the problem of AD in Hong Kong/China in the near future; (b) the genetic and lifestyle risk factors that contribute to AD; (c) current diagnostic approaches and the potential of newly discovered genetic biomarkers for early detection; (d) medications, non-pharmacological interventions, and possible preventive measures; and (e) the need for social and psychological care from the community. In Hong Kong, primary care and AD-related support for at-risk individuals, patients, and caregivers are inadequate. A joint effort from the medical community, government, universities, non-governmental organisations/charities, and industry should initiate the development of a long-term programme for AD. Finally, we outline recommendations for the relevant parties to consider.
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Diet changes alter paternally inherited epigenetic pattern in male Wild guinea pigs. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2018; 4:dvy011. [PMID: 29992049 PMCID: PMC6031029 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvy011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications, of which DNA methylation is the most stable, are a mechanism conveying environmental information to subsequent generations via parental germ lines. The paternal contribution to adaptive processes in the offspring might be crucial, but has been widely neglected in comparison to the maternal one. To address the paternal impact on the offspring's adaptability to changes in diet composition, we investigated if low protein diet (LPD) in F0 males caused epigenetic alterations in their subsequently sired sons. We therefore fed F0 male Wild guinea pigs with a diet lowered in protein content (LPD) and investigated DNA methylation in sons sired before and after their father's LPD treatment in both, liver and testis tissues. Our results point to a 'heritable epigenetic response' of the sons to the fathers' dietary change. Because we detected methylation changes also in the testis tissue, they are likely to be transmitted to the F2 generation. Gene-network analyses of differentially methylated genes in liver identified main metabolic pathways indicating a metabolic reprogramming ('metabolic shift'). Epigenetic mechanisms, allowing an immediate and inherited adaptation may thus be important for the survival of species in the context of a persistently changing environment, such as climate change.
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Verträglichkeit von zwei-wöchentlichen Infusionen mit Alpha-1 Antitrypsin. Pneumologie 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1619360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Ph, Ammonia Flux, and Total Nitrogen in Duck Litter with Chemical Blends - A Field Study. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2017-0491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging-indeterminate/negative cardiac sarcoidosis revealed by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography: two case reports and a review of the literature. J Med Case Rep 2017; 11:291. [PMID: 29052526 PMCID: PMC5649067 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-017-1453-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disorder of immune dysregulation characterized by non-caseating granulomas that can affect any organ. Cardiac sarcoidosis is an under-recognized entity that has a heterogeneous presentation and may occur independently or with any severity of systemic disease. Diagnosing cardiac sarcoidosis remains problematic with endomyocardial biopsies associated with a high risk of complications. Several diagnostic algorithms are currently available that rely on histopathology or clinical and radiological measures. The dominant mode of diagnostic imaging to date for cardiac sarcoidosis has been cardiac magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium enhancement. Case presentations We report the cases of two adult patients: case 1, a 50-year-old white man who presented with severe congestive cardiac failure; and case 2, a 37-year-old white woman who presented with complete heart block. Both patients had a background of untreated pulmonary sarcoidosis. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging did not show evidence of sarcoidosis in either patient and both proceeded to 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography scans that were highly suggestive of cardiac sarcoidosis. Both patients were systemically immunosuppressed with orally administered prednisone and methotrexate and had subsequent improvement by clinical and nuclear medicine imaging measures. Conclusions Current consensus guidelines recommend all patients with sarcoidosis undergo screening for occult cardiac disease, with thorough history and examination, electrocardiogram, and transthoracic echocardiogram. If any abnormalities are detected, advanced cardiac imaging should follow. While cardiac magnetic resonance imaging identifies the majority of cardiac sarcoidosis, early disease may not be detected. These cases demonstrate 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography is warranted following an indeterminate or normal cardiac magnetic resonance imaging if clinical suspicion remains high. Unidentified and untreated cardiac sarcoidosis risks significant morbidity and mortality, but early detection can facilitate disease-modifying immunosuppression and cardiac-specific interventions.
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Evaluation of Aluminum Chloride As an Effective Short-Term Solution for Reducing Odor - Causing Volatile Fatty Acids in Duck Litter. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2016-0401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Improving molecular testing and personalized medicine in non-small-cell lung cancer in Ontario. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 24:103-110. [PMID: 28490924 DOI: 10.3747/co.24.3495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although molecular testing has become standard in managing advanced nonsquamous non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc), most patients undergo minimally invasive procedures, and the diagnostic tumour specimens available for testing are usually limited. A knowledge translation initiative to educate diagnostic specialists about sampling techniques and laboratory processes was undertaken to improve the uptake and application of molecular testing in advanced lung cancer. METHODS A multidisciplinary panel of physician experts including pathologists, respirologists, interventional thoracic radiologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists developed a specialty-specific education program, adapting international clinical guidelines to the local Ontario context. Expert recommendations from the program are reported here. RESULTS Panel experts agreed that specialists procuring samples for lung cancer diagnosis should choose biopsy techniques that maximize tumour cellularity, and that conservation strategies to maximize tissue for molecular testing should be used in tissue processing. The timeliness of molecular reporting can be improved by pathologist-initiated reflex testing upon confirmation of nonsquamous nsclc and by prompt transportation of specimens to designated molecular diagnostic centres. To coordinate timely molecular testing and optimal treatment, collaboration and communication between all clinicians involved in diagnosing patients with advanced lung cancer are mandatory. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge transfer to diagnostic lung cancer specialists could potentially improve molecular testing and treatment for advanced lung cancer patients.
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Growth Performance and Fatty Acid Profiles of Broilers Given Diets Supplemented with Fermented Red Ginseng Marc Powder Combined with Red Koji. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/1806-9061-2015-0191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Prosthetic Valve Infective Endocarditis with Mycobacterium Fortuitum: First Case of Curative Therapy with Antibiotics Alone. Heart Lung Circ 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2016.06.648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Cold atmospheric plasma jet-generated RONS and their selective effects on normal and carcinoma cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:20332. [PMID: 26838306 PMCID: PMC4738260 DOI: 10.1038/srep20332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold atmospheric helium plasma jets were fabricated and utilized for plasma-cell interactions. The effect of operating parameters and jet design on the generation of specific reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) within cells and cellular response were investigated. It was found that plasma treatment induced the overproduction of RONS in various cancer cell lines selectively. The plasma under a relatively low applied voltage induced the detachment of cells, a reduction in cell viability, and apoptosis, while the plasma under higher applied voltage led to cellular necrosis in our case. To determine whether plasma-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation occurs through interfering with mitochondria-related cellular response, we examined the plasma effects on ROS generation in both parental A549 cells and A549 ρ(0) cells. It was observed that cancer cells were more susceptible to plasma-induced RONS (especially nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2(-)) radicals) than normal cells, and consequently, plasma induced apoptotic cell responses mainly in cancer cells.
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Electrode modifications to lower electrode impedance and improve neural signal recording sensitivity. J Neural Eng 2015; 12:056018. [DOI: 10.1088/1741-2560/12/5/056018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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The prevalence and incidence of Atrial Fibrillation (AF) in patients with acute Pulmonary Embolism (PE). Heart Lung Circ 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2015.06.662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Investigating high speed phenomena in laser plasma interactions using dilation x-ray imager (invited). THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2014; 85:11E504. [PMID: 25430346 DOI: 10.1063/1.4890396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The DIlation X-ray Imager (DIXI) is a new, high-speed x-ray framing camera at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) sensitive to x-rays in the range of ≈2-17 keV. DIXI uses the pulse-dilation technique to achieve a temporal resolution of less than 10 ps, a ≈10× improvement over conventional framing cameras currently employed on the NIF (≈100 ps resolution), and otherwise only attainable with 1D streaked imaging. The pulse-dilation technique utilizes a voltage ramp to impart a velocity gradient on the signal-bearing electrons. The temporal response, spatial resolution, and x-ray sensitivity of DIXI are characterized with a short x-ray impulse generated using the COMET laser facility at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. At the NIF a pinhole array at 10 cm from target chamber center (tcc) projects images onto the photocathode situated outside the NIF chamber wall with a magnification of ≈64×. DIXI will provide important capabilities for warm-dense-matter physics, high-energy-density science, and inertial confinement fusion, adding important capabilities to temporally resolve hot-spot formation, x-ray emission, fuel motion, and mix levels in the hot-spot at neutron yields of up to 10(17). We present characterization data as well as first results on electron-transport phenomena in buried-layer foil experiments.
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Evolutionary origins of the placental expression of chromosome 19 cluster galectins and their complex dysregulation in preeclampsia. Placenta 2014; 35:855-65. [PMID: 25266889 PMCID: PMC4203431 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Revised: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The dysregulation of maternal-fetal immune tolerance is one of the proposed mechanisms leading to preeclampsia. Galectins are key regulator proteins of the immune response in vertebrates and maternal-fetal immune tolerance in eutherian mammals. Previously we found that three genes in a Chr19 cluster encoding for human placental galectin-13 (PP13), galectin-14 and galectin-16 emerged during primate evolution and may confer immune tolerance to the semi-allogeneic fetus. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study involved various methodologies for gene and protein expression profiling, genomic DNA methylation analyses, functional assays on differentiating trophoblasts including gene silencing, luciferase reporter and methylation assays. These methods were applied on placental specimens, umbilical cord blood cells, primary trophoblasts and BeWo cells. Genomic DNA sequences were analyzed for transposable elements, transcription factor binding sites and evolutionary conservation. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The villous trophoblastic expression of Chr19 cluster galectin genes is developmentally regulated by DNA methylation and induced by key transcription factors of villous placental development during trophoblast fusion and differentiation. This latter mechanism arose via the co-option of binding sites for these transcription factors through promoter evolution and the insertion of an anthropoid-specific L1PREC2 transposable element into the 5' untranslated region of an ancestral gene followed by gene duplication events. Among placental Chr19 cluster galectin genes, the expression of LGALS13 and LGALS14 is down-regulated in preterm severe preeclampsia associated with SGA. We reveal that this phenomenon is partly originated from the dysregulated expression of key transcription factors controlling trophoblastic functions and galectin gene expression. In addition, the differential DNA methylation of these genes was also observed in preterm preeclampsia irrespective of SGA. CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal the evolutionary origins of the placental expression of Chr19 cluster galectins. The complex dysregulation of these genes in preeclampsia may alter immune tolerance mechanisms at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lepidium meyenii (Maca) has been used for centuries for its fertility-enhancing and aphrodisiac properties. In an Australian study, Maca improved anxiety and depressive scores. The effects of Maca on hormones, lipids, glucose, serum cytokines, blood pressure, menopausal symptoms and general well-being in Chinese postmenopausal women were evaluated. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study was conducted in 29 postmenopausal Hong Kong Chinese women. They received 3.3 g/day of Maca or placebo for 6 weeks each, in either order, over 12 weeks. At baseline, week 6 and week 12, estradiol, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), full lipid profiles, glucose and serum cytokines were measured. The Greene Climacteric, SF-36 Version 2, Women's Health Questionnaire and Utian Quality of Life Scales were used to assess the severity of menopausal symptoms and health-related quality of life. RESULTS There were no differences in estradiol, FSH, TSH, SHBG, glucose, lipid profiles and serum cytokines amongst those who received Maca as compared to the placebo group; however, significant decreases in diastolic blood pressure and depression were apparent after Maca treatment. CONCLUSIONS Maca did not exert hormonal or immune biological action in the small cohort of patients studied; however, it appeared to reduce symptoms of depression and improve diastolic blood pressure in Chinese postmenopausal women. Although results are comparable to previous similar published studies in postmenopausal women, there might be a cultural difference among the Chinese postmenopausal women in terms of symptom reporting.
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p53 haploinsufficiency and functional abnormalities in multiple myeloma. Leukemia 2014; 28:2066-74. [DOI: 10.1038/leu.2014.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction with long-term clozapine treatment for schizophrenia: a multicentre cross-sectional cohort study. Open Heart 2014; 1:e000030. [PMID: 25332789 PMCID: PMC4195917 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2013-000030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2013] [Revised: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Patients with schizophrenia treated with clozapine are at risk of acute myocarditis and dilated cardiomyopathy. However, there are no data on the prevalence of subclinical cardiomyopathy or its associations. Methods 100 consecutive patients with schizophrenia treated with clozapine for >1 year and without a history of cardiac pathology (group 1), 21 controls with a history of schizophrenia treated with non-clozapine antipsychotics for >1 year (group 2) and 20 controls without schizophrenia (group 3) were studied. Comprehensive evaluation by clinical examination, ECG, transthoracic echocardiography including left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) and biochemical profiles were performed. Results Patients with schizophrenia were of similar age, but had higher body mass index (BMI), rates of smoking and hyperlipidaemia than controls. Patients with schizophrenia had received clozapine or non-clozapine antipsychotics for a mean duration of 6.8±5.3 and 9.7±6.1 years, respectively. Patients taking clozapine demonstrated globally impaired LVEF (58.3%: group 1 vs 62.2%: group 2 vs 64.8%: group 3, p<0.001) and GLS (−16.7%: group 1 vs −18.6%: group 2 vs −20.2%: group 3, p<0.001). Moreover, LVEF was <50% in 9/100 (9%) patients receiving clozapine and in non-clozapine schizophrenia patients or healthy controls, but this was not statistically significantly different (analysis of covariance, p=0.19). Univariate analysis in patients taking clozapine found that impaired LV was not predicted by high-sensitivity troponin T, but was associated with features of the metabolic syndrome (including increased triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), high-sensitivity C reactive protein and BMI), elevated neutrophil count, elevated heart rate, smoking and N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide. In patients taking clozapine, multivariable analysis identified elevated neutrophil count and low HDL-C as the only independent predictors of impaired GLS. Conclusions Asymptomatic mild LV impairment is common in patients with schizophrenia receiving long-term clozapine treatment and is associated with neutrophilia and low HDL-C.
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Neuroimaging methods for adolescent substance use disorder prevention science. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2013; 14:300-9. [PMID: 23417665 PMCID: PMC3640678 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-012-0323-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods safely provide in vivo indicators of cerebral macrostructure, microstructure, and activation that can be examined in relation to substance use disorder (SUD) risks and effects. This article will provide an overview of MRI approaches, including volumetric measures, diffusion tensor imaging, and functional MRI, that have been applied to studies of adolescent neuromaturation in relationship to risk phenotypes and adolescent SUD. To illustrate these applications, examples of research findings will be presented. MRI indicators have demonstrated that neurobiological maturation continues throughout adolescence. MRI research has suggested that variations in neurobiological maturation may contribute to SUD risk, and that substance use adversely influences adolescent brain development. Directly measured neurobiological variables may be viable preventive intervention targets and outcome indicators. Further research is needed to provide definitive findings on neurodevelopmental immaturity as an SUD risk and to determine the directions such observations suggest for advancing prevention science.
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Extracorporeal dialysis: techniques and adequacy II. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2013. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gft144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Dilation x-ray imager a new∕faster gated x-ray imager for the NIF. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2012; 83:10E116. [PMID: 23126938 DOI: 10.1063/1.4732849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
As the yield on implosion shots increases it is expected that the peak x-ray emission reduces to a duration with a FWHM as short as 20 ps for ∼7 × 10(18) neutron yield. However, the temporal resolution of currently used gated x-ray imagers on the NIF is 40-100 ps. We discuss the benefits of the higher temporal resolution for the NIF and present performance measurements for dilation x-ray imager, which utilizes pulse-dilation technology [T. J. Hilsabeck et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 81, 10E317 (2010)] to achieve x-ray imaging with temporal gate times below 10 ps. The measurements were conducted using the COMET laser, which is part of the Jupiter Laser Facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
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Prognostic Impact of Serum Sodium Fluctuations on In-hospital and Long-term Outcome Following Acute Pulmonary Embolism. Heart Lung Circ 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2012.05.631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Validation of Right to Left Atrial Area Ratio in Predicting Long-term Prognosis following Acute Pulmonary Embolism. Heart Lung Circ 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2012.05.578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Poster Session 5: Saturday 10 December 2011, 08:30-12:30 * Location: Poster Area. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/ejechocard/jer218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Poster Session 3: Friday 9 December 2011, 08:30-12:30 * Location: Poster Area. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/ejechocard/jer214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Quantifying the Accuracy of Intrafractional Internal Target Volume Margin in Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer Using CyberKnife Tumor Tracking System. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2011.06.1561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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EGFR Mutations Associated With Superior Intracranial Response and Progression-free Survival After Brain Irradiation in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer With Brain Metastasis. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2011.06.1119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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O12. Quality of life of oral cavity cancer patients in Hong Kong – A pilot study after translation of the EORTC H&N35 questionnaire into Cantonese. Oral Oncol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2011.06.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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A validation study of the Chinese wearing off questionnaire 9-symptom for Parkinson's disease. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2011; 113:538-40. [PMID: 21507565 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2011.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2009] [Revised: 02/10/2011] [Accepted: 03/19/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Development of wearing off (WO) often goes unnoticed for both patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and physicians due to the complexity of this phenomenon. A brief 9-symptom WO questionnaire (WOQ-9) was recently found to be highly sensitive in its detection. We aimed to validate a Chinese version WOQ-9 (CWOQ-9) among Chinese patients with PD. METHODS We recruited 101 literate Chinese PD patients among 4 different neurology or movement disorders clinics in Hong Kong to participate in this study by completing the CWOQ-9. Clinical judgment by the specialists was considered the gold standard for diagnosing WO. RESULTS The mean age (±SD) of the patients was 61 (±9) years and 35 (34.7%) of them were female. The disease duration was 7.4 (±5.4) years and 69 (68.3%) of them were diagnosed clinically to have WO by the specialists. The positive and negative predictive values, sensitivity and specificity of CWOQ-9 were 86%, 71%, 87%, and 69% respectively. The area under curve (AUC) was 0.78 (p<0.001). CONCLUSION This simple patient questionnaire is a valid tool for the detection of WO among Chinese PD patients.
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Clinical and biological implications of MYC activation: a common difference between MGUS and newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. Leukemia 2011; 25:1026-35. [PMID: 21468039 PMCID: PMC3432644 DOI: 10.1038/leu.2011.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Events mediating transformation from the pre-malignant monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) to multiple myeloma (MM) are unknown. We analyzed gene expression data sets generated on the Affymetrix U133 platform from 22 MGUS and 101 MM patients using gene-set enrichment analysis. Genes overexpressed in MM were enriched for cell cycle, proliferation and MYC activation gene sets. Upon dissecting the relationship between MYC and cell-cycle gene sets, we identified and validated an MYC activation signature dissociated from proliferation. Applying this signature, MYC is activated in 67% of myeloma, but not in MGUS. This was further confirmed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) using membrane CD138 and nuclear MYC double staining. We also showed that almost all tumors with RAS mutations expressed the MYC activation signature, and multiple mechanisms may be involved in activating MYC. MYC activation, whether assessed by gene-expression signature or IHC, is associated with hyperdiploid MM and shorter survival even in tumors that are not proliferative. Bortezomib treatment is able to overcome the survival disadvantage in patients with MYC activation.
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Right Side and Left Side Septal Responses to the Treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension as Assessed by 2D Longitudinal Strain. Heart Lung Circ 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2011.05.469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Increased Right to Left Atrial Area Ratio Following Acute Pulmonary Embolism is an Adverse Prognostic Marker During Long-term Follow-up. Heart Lung Circ 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2011.05.508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Left Ventricular Dysfunction and Low Grade Inflammation in Schizophrenic Patients Receiving Long-term Clozapine Treatment: A 2D-Speckle Tracking Echocardiographic Study. Heart Lung Circ 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2011.05.175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Radiographic Toxicity Associated with Thoracic Stereotactic Radiotherapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2010.07.1800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Right Ventricular Free Wall Apical Longitudinal Strain Responds Sensitively to the Treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Heart Lung Circ 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2010.06.474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Right Ventricular Free Wall Apical Longitudinal Strain Correlates with Right Ventricular Pressure in Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension. Heart Lung Circ 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2010.06.473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Feasibility of electroflotation to separate solids and liquid in an activated sludge process. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2009; 30:1565-1573. [PMID: 20184001 DOI: 10.1080/09593330903313802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
In this study, electroflotation (EF) has been applied as a secondary clarification in the activated sludge process to improve the efficiency of the solids-liquid separation, which is essential in maintaining effluent quality. The effects of sludge settleability were examined through a series of batch and semi-continuous experiments. The results of the batch experiments revealed that thickening efficiencies using EF were 2.6 to 9.2 times higher than those with gravity settling (GS). In addition, clarification efficiencies were not significantly influenced by sludge settling properties, as compared with GS as a control. In the semi-continuous EF experiments, the concentrations of solids in the float layer were maintained above 10 g L(-1) during flotation, regardless of variations in sludge settleability. Furthermore, the volumetric gas proportion in the float layer increased as the gas to solids (G/S) ratio rose. This allowed the float layer to be more stably suspended against gravity at the top of the reactor. Based on the results obtained from these batch and semi-continuous experiments, an anoxic/oxic (AO) reactor combined with EF clarifier remained in successful continuous operation for four months. In comparison with conventional AO processes using a GS clarifier, enhanced clarification and thickening efficiencies were achieved through the EF-AO system. In addition, higher mixed liquor suspended solids concentrations (averaging 5300 mg L(-1)) in the bioreactor (EF-AO) were maintained via the return of highly concentrated sludge (averaging 16,400 mg L(-1)) from the EF clarifier. These findings suggest that EF could be a promising and effective alternative for the solids-liquid separation of poorly settling sludge.
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Oscillometric Measurement of Mean Arterial Pressure: The Effect of Position on Prediction of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2009. [DOI: 10.3109/01443619509020684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Abstract
This was a retrospective review of the experience of face and brow presentation deliveries in South Glamorgan between 1990 and 1996. The incidence of face and brow presentation was 1 in 994 and 1 in 755 deliveries respectively (no cases of cranial vault anomalies in this series). There was a higher incidence of prematurity and very low birthweight among infants delivered by face presentation and higher incidence of postmaturity among those delivered by brow when compared with the vertex population in the same period. Over half of malpresentations were diagnosed in the second stage. Most fetuses presenting by the brow were delivered by caesarean section and 56% of fetuses presenting by face presentation achieved a vaginal delivery. The reported incidence of these forms of deflexed cephalic attitudes has gradually changed over the last century especially over the past decade when the incidence of face is no longer more common than brow presentation.
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A reappraisal of second trimester mean arterial pressure as a predictor of pregnancy induced hypertension. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2009. [DOI: 10.3109/01443619409027835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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SU-FF-J-120: Assessing Intrafraction Motion for Cranial Tumor Patients Treated with Hypofractionated Radiation Therapy Using Repeated Imaging. Med Phys 2009. [DOI: 10.1118/1.3181412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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SU-FF-J-123: 4D Prone Vs. Supine Scanning: Modifications in the Breathing Motion Characteristics and Image Data Quality. Med Phys 2009. [DOI: 10.1118/1.3181415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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