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Evans JPO, Elarnaut F, Downes D, Lee WK, Arnold EL, Rogers K. Sparse interleaved sampling for high resolution focal construct geometry X-ray tomography. Opt Express 2023; 31:15301-15315. [PMID: 37157634 DOI: 10.1364/oe.484008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate interleaved sampling by multiplexing conical subshells within the tomosynthesis and raster scanning a phantom through a 150 kV shell X-ray beam. Each view comprises pixels sampled on a regular 1 mm grid, which is then upscaled by padding with null pixels before tomosynthesis. We show that upscaled views comprising 1% sample pixels and 99% null pixels increase the contrast transfer function (CTF) computed from constructed optical sections from approximately 0.6 line pairs/mm to 3 line pairs/mm. The driver of our method is to complement work concerning the application of conical shell beams to the measurement of diffracted photons for materials identification. Our approach is relevant to time-critical, and dose-sensitive analytical scanning applications in security screening, process control and medical imaging.
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Roh D, Shin K, Kim WI, Yang MY, Lee WK, Kim HS, Ko HC, Kim BS, Kim MB. Comparison of dermoscopic features between congenital and acquired acral melanocytic nevi in Korean patients. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34:1004-1009. [PMID: 31733082 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.16089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The dermoscopic patterns of acral melanocytic nevi (AMNs) are crucial in differentiating them from acral melanoma. Several studies have reported the dermoscopic patterns of acquired acral melanocytic nevi (AAMNs). However, few have investigated the dermoscopic patterns of congenital acral melanocytic nevi (CAMNs). OBJECTIVE To compare the clinical and dermoscopic features of CAMNs and AAMNs. METHODS The present study included 43 patients with CAMNs and 40 with AAMNs. We reviewed their medical records as well as their clinical and dermoscopic findings. RESULTS Congenital acral melanocytic nevis were more asymmetrical than AAMNs (P = 0.002) and presented more frequently as comma-shaped (P = 0.005). Regarding dermoscopic findings, globular pattern (55.8%) was the most common feature of CAMNs, while parallel furrow pattern (37.5%) was the most common feature of AAMNs. The presence of fibrillar, globular, and parallel ridge patterns, and diffuse multi-component pigmentation differed significantly between the groups (P < 0.05). Furthermore, CAMNs showed melanoma-specific dermoscopic patterns, such as parallel ridge (18.6%) and diffuse multi-component pigmentation (25.6%). CONCLUSION The dermoscopic patterns of CAMNs and AAMNs differed markedly. In terms of dermoscopic patterns, CAMNs resembled acral melanoma more often than AAMNs did.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Roh
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea.,Department of Dermatology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - K Shin
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea
| | - W-I Kim
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea.,Department of Dermatology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - M-Y Yang
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea
| | - W-K Lee
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea.,Department of Dermatology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - H-S Kim
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea
| | - H-C Ko
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea.,Department of Dermatology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea
| | - B-S Kim
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea.,Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - M-B Kim
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Pusan National University, Busan, Korea.,Biomedical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
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Lee WK, Lo A, Chong G, Chang SYS, Lu V, Yip PLI, Liu CMK, Leung M, Chung CM, Wong KY, Yeung YYE, Chan SMA, Ngai YS, Wong PS, Lo TL. New Service Model for Common Mental Disorders in Hong Kong: a Retrospective Outcome Study. East Asian Arch Psychiatry 2019; 29:75-80. [PMID: 31566182 DOI: 10.12809/eaap1822] [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] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the first 8-month outcome of the Common Mental Disorder Clinic model in Hong Kong in terms of patient exit status and improvement in depressive and anxiety symptoms. METHODS During the first appointment, patients were interviewed by a multidisciplinary team comprising a psychiatrist, a psychiatric nurse, and an occupational therapist. A multidisciplinary case conference was conducted to discuss clinical observations, diagnosis, issues of concern, and the optimal individualised treatment plan. Low-intensity interventions by nurses and/or occupational therapists were provided, as were optional, time-limited, protocol-based interventions by clinical psychologists for those with mild to moderate depressive and anxiety symptoms. Pharmacological intervention may be used when indicated. Upon completion of the treatment plan, patients were reassessed by the treating psychiatrist. Discharge options included discharge without psychiatric follow-up, step-up to psychiatric outpatient clinics, and step-down services. The self-administered Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7) were used to assess the past 2 weeks' depressive and anxiety symptoms, respectively, at baseline and at each session. RESULTS From July 2015 to February 2016, 1325 Chinese patients received the new service. Of them, 170 men and 363 women (mean age, 52.6 years) completed the treatment plan. After treatment, their mean PHQ-9 score decreased from 11.06 to 7.55 (p < 0.001), and the mean GAD-7 score decreased from 9.94 to 6.54 (p < 0.001). After treatment, 42.4% and 48.2% of the patients were within the normal range of PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores, respectively, compared with 16.9% and 20.8% before treatment. The mean time to implementation of the individualised treatment plan was 82.33 days. Of the patients, 54.4% were discharged without any need for medical or psychiatric follow-up; 28% were stepped up to psychiatric outpatient clinics; and 17.3% were stepped down. The predictors of exit status were whether psychiatric medication was prescribed during initial intake (p = 0.011), whether psychiatric medication was prescribed at last follow-up (p < 0.001), the service period (p = 0.010), and the GAD-7 final score (p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS The first 8-month outcome of the new service model was encouraging, with shortened waiting time, reduced severity of symptoms, and better exit status (high recovery and step-down rates).
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Affiliation(s)
- W K Lee
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - A Lo
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - G Chong
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - V Lu
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - P L I Yip
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - C M K Liu
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - M Leung
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - C M Chung
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - K Y Wong
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | | | - S M A Chan
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Y S Ngai
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - P S Wong
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - T L Lo
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Betten R, Scharner B, Probst S, Edemir B, Wolff NA, Langelueddecke C, Lee WK, Thévenod F. Tonicity inversely modulates lipocalin-2 (Lcn2/24p3/NGAL) receptor (SLC22A17) and Lcn2 expression via Wnt/β-catenin signaling in renal inner medullary collecting duct cells: implications for cell fate and bacterial infection. Cell Commun Signal 2018; 16:74. [PMID: 30404645 PMCID: PMC6223074 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-018-0285-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We have previously evidenced apical expression of the 24p3/NGAL/lipocalin-2 receptor (Lcn2-R; SLC22A17) in inner medullary collecting duct (IMCD) cells, which are present in vivo in a hyperosmotic/-tonic environment that activates canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling. The localization of Lcn2-R in the inner medulla is intriguing considering local bacterial infections trigger toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4)-mediated secretion of the bacteriostatic Fe3+-free (apo-)Lcn2. Aim To determine the effects of osmolarity/tonicity changes, Wnt/β-catenin and TLR-4 activation on Lcn2-R and Lcn2 expression and cell viability in rat primary IMCD and mouse (m)IMCD3 cells. Methods Normosmolarity/-tonicity was 300 mosmol/l whereas hyperosmolarity/-tonicity was induced by adding 100 mmol/l NaCl + 100 mmol/l urea (600 mosmol/l, 1-7 days). Lcn2-R and Lcn2 expression were determined by qPCR, immunoblotting, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence microscopy. β-catenin was silenced by RNAi. Cell viability/death was determined with MTT and LDH release assays. TLR-4 was activated by bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Results Hyperosmotic/-tonic media upregulated Lcn2-R by ~4-fold and decreased Lcn2 expression/secretion, along with Wnt/β-catenin activation, in IMCD cells. These effects of hyperosmotic/-tonic media on Lcn2-R/Lcn2 expression were reverted by normosmolarity/-tonicity, β-catenin silencing and/or LPS. Exposure of cells with endogenous or stably overexpressing Lcn2-R to apo-Lcn2 or LPS decreased cell viability. Conclusions Lcn2-R upregulation and Lcn2 downregulation via Wnt/β-catenin may promote adaptive osmotolerant survival of IMCD cells in response to hyperosmolarity/-tonicity whereas Lcn2 upregulation and Lcn2-R downregulation via TLR-4 and/or normosmolarity/-tonicity may protect IMCD cells against bacterial infections and prevent autocrine death induction by Lcn2. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-018-0285-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Betten
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology & Toxicology and ZBAF (Centre for Biomedical Education and Research), Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str 12 (Thyssenhaus), D-58453, Witten, Germany
| | - B Scharner
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology & Toxicology and ZBAF (Centre for Biomedical Education and Research), Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str 12 (Thyssenhaus), D-58453, Witten, Germany
| | - S Probst
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology & Toxicology and ZBAF (Centre for Biomedical Education and Research), Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str 12 (Thyssenhaus), D-58453, Witten, Germany
| | - B Edemir
- Department of Medicine, Hematology and Oncology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - N A Wolff
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology & Toxicology and ZBAF (Centre for Biomedical Education and Research), Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str 12 (Thyssenhaus), D-58453, Witten, Germany
| | - C Langelueddecke
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology & Toxicology and ZBAF (Centre for Biomedical Education and Research), Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str 12 (Thyssenhaus), D-58453, Witten, Germany
| | - W-K Lee
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology & Toxicology and ZBAF (Centre for Biomedical Education and Research), Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str 12 (Thyssenhaus), D-58453, Witten, Germany
| | - F Thévenod
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology & Toxicology and ZBAF (Centre for Biomedical Education and Research), Faculty of Health, School of Medicine, Witten/Herdecke University, Stockumer Str 12 (Thyssenhaus), D-58453, Witten, Germany.
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Nazaretski E, Xu W, Yan H, Huang X, Coburn DS, Ge M, Lee WK, Gao Y, Xu W, Fuchs M, Chu YS. Microscopy Instrumentation and Nanopositioning at NSLS-II: Current Status and Future Directions. Synchrotron Radiat News 2018; 31:3-8. [PMID: 31467463 PMCID: PMC6714041 DOI: 10.1080/08940886.2018.1506233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E Nazaretski
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - W Xu
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - H Yan
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - X Huang
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - D S Coburn
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - M Ge
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - W-K Lee
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - Y Gao
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - W Xu
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - M Fuchs
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
| | - Y S Chu
- Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton, New York, USA
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Song JW, Lee WK, Lee S, Shim JK, Kim HJ, Kwak YL. Remote ischaemic conditioning for prevention of acute kidney injury after valvular heart surgery: a randomised controlled trial. Br J Anaesth 2018; 121:1034-1040. [PMID: 30336847 DOI: 10.1016/j.bja.2018.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repeated remote ischaemic conditioning (RIC) during weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass and in the early postoperative period may confer protection against acute kidney injury (AKI). We evaluated the effect of repeated RIC on the incidence of AKI in patients undergoing valvular heart surgery. METHODS Patients were randomised into either the RIC (n=120) or control (n=124) group. A pneumatic tourniquet was placed on each patient's thigh. Upon removal of the aortic cross-clamp, three cycles of inflation for 5 min at 250 mm Hg (with 5 min intervals) were applied in the RIC group. Additionally, three cycles of RIC were repeated at postoperative 12 and 24 h. AKI was diagnosed based on the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes guideline. The incidences of renal replacement therapy, permanent stroke, sternal wound infection, newly developed atrial fibrillation, mechanical ventilation >24 h, and reoperation for bleeding during hospitalisation were recorded. RESULTS The incidences of AKI were not significantly different between the control (19.4%) and RIC (15.8%) groups (a difference of 3.5 percentage points; 95% confidence interval: -6.8%-13.9%; P=0.470). Perioperative serum creatinine concentrations were similar in the control and RIC groups (P=0.494). Fluid balance, urine output, blood loss, transfusion, and vasopressor/inotropic requirements were not significantly different between the groups (all P>0.05). The occurrences of a composite of morbidity and mortality endpoints were not significantly different between the control (46.0%) and RIC (39.2%) groups (a difference of 6.8 percentage points; 95% confidence interval: -6.4%-20.0%; P=0.283). CONCLUSIONS The results of our study do not support repeated RIC to decrease the incidence of AKI after valvular heart surgery. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02720549.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Song
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Anaesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - W K Lee
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - S Lee
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - J K Shim
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Anaesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - H J Kim
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Y L Kwak
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Anaesthesia and Pain Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Abstract
Poly(D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid) has been extensively used as a controlled release carrier for drug delivery due to its good biocompatibility, biodegradability, and mechanical strength. In this study, porous PLGA microspheres were fabricated by an emulsion-solvent evaporation technique using poly ethylene glycol (PEG) as an extractable porogen and loaded with protein (lysozyme) by suspending them in protein solution. For controlled release of protein, porous microspheres containing lysozyme were treated with water-miscible solvents in aqueous phase for production of pore-closed microspheres. The surface morphology of microspheres were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for confirmation of its porous microstructure structure. Protein property after release was observed by enzymatic activity assay. The pore-closing process resulted in nonporous microspheres which exhibited sustained release patterns over an extended period.
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Lee WK, Probst S, Santoyo-Sánchez MP, Al-Hamdani W, Diebels I, von Sivers JK, Kerek E, Prenner EJ, Thévenod F. Initial autophagic protection switches to disruption of autophagic flux by lysosomal instability during cadmium stress accrual in renal NRK-52E cells. Arch Toxicol 2017; 91:3225-3245. [PMID: 28321485 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-017-1942-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [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: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The renal proximal tubule (PT) is the major target of cadmium (Cd2+) toxicity where Cd2+ causes stress and apoptosis. Autophagy is induced by cell stress, e.g., endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and may contribute to cell survival or death. The role of autophagy in Cd2+-induced nephrotoxicity remains unsettled due to contradictory results and lack of evidence for autophagic machinery damage by Cd2+. Cd2+-induced autophagy in rat kidney PT cell line NRK-52E and its role in cell death was investigated. Increased LC3-II and decreased p62 as autophagy markers indicate rapid induction of autophagic flux by Cd2+ (5-10 µM) after 1 h, accompanied by ER stress (increased p-PERK, p-eIF2α, CHOP). Cd2+ exposure exceeding 3 h results in p62/LC3-II accumulation, but diminished effect of lysosomal inhibitors (bafilomycin A1, pepstatin A +E-64d) on p62/LC3-II levels, indicating decreased autophagic flux and cargo degradation. At 24 h exposure, Cd2+ (5-25 µM) activates intrinsic apoptotic pathways (Bax/Bcl-2, PARP-1), which is not evident earlier (≤6 h) although cell viability by MTT assay is decreased. Autophagy inducer rapamycin (100 nM) does not overcome autophagy inhibition or Cd2+-induced cell viability loss. The autophagosome-lysosome fusion inhibitor liensinine (5 μM) increases CHOP and Bax/Bcl-2-dependent apoptosis by low Cd2+ stress, but not by high Cd2+. Lysosomal instability by Cd2+ (5 μM; 6 h) is indicated by increases in cellular sphingomyelin and membrane fluidity and decreases in cathepsins and LAMP1. The data suggest dual and temporal impact of Cd2+ on autophagy: Low Cd2+ stress rapidly activates autophagy counteracting damage but Cd2+ stress accrual disrupts autophagic flux and lysosomal stability, possibly resulting in lysosomal cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- W-K Lee
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Toxicology, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany.
| | - S Probst
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Toxicology, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - M P Santoyo-Sánchez
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Toxicology, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
- Department of Toxicology, Cinvestav-IPN, México D.F., Mexico
| | - W Al-Hamdani
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Toxicology, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - I Diebels
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Toxicology, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - J-K von Sivers
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Toxicology, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany
| | - E Kerek
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - E J Prenner
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - F Thévenod
- Department of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Toxicology, Centre for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), Witten/Herdecke University, Witten, Germany.
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Paul A, Stührenberg M, Chen S, Rhee D, Lee WK, Odom TW, Heilshorn SC, Enejder A. Micro- and nano-patterned elastin-like polypeptide hydrogels for stem cell culture. Soft Matter 2017; 13:5665-5675. [PMID: 28737182 PMCID: PMC5600619 DOI: 10.1039/c7sm00487g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
We show that submicron-sized patterns can be imprinted into soft, recombinant-engineered protein hydrogels (here elastin-like proteins, ELP) by transferring wavy patterns from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) molds. The high-precision topographical tunability of the relatively stiff PDMS is translated to a bio-responsive, soft material, enabling topographical cell response studies at elastic moduli matching those of tissues. Aligned and unaligned wavy patterns with mold periodicities of 0.24-4.54 μm were imprinted and characterized by coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering and atomic force microscopy. The pattern was successfully transferred down to 0.37 μm periodicity (width in ELP: 250 ± 50 nm, height: 70 ± 40 nm). The limit was set by inherent protein assemblies (diameter: 124-180 nm) that formed due to lower critical solution temperature behavior of the ELP during molding. The width/height of the ELP ridges depended on the degree of hydration; from complete dehydration to full hydration, ELP ridge width ranged from 79 ± 9% to 150 ± 40% of the mold width. The surface of the ridged ELP featured densely packed protein aggregates that were larger in size than those observed in bulk/flat ELP. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) oriented along hydrated aligned patterns with periodicities ≥0.60 μm (height ≥170 ± 100 nm), while random orientation was observed for smaller distances/amplitudes, as well as flat and unaligned wavy ELP surfaces. Hence, micro-molding of ELP is a promising approach to create tissue-mimicking, hierarchical architectures composed of tunable micron-sized structures with nano-sized protein aggregates, which opens the way for orthogonal screening of cell responses to topography and cell-adhesion ligands at relevant elastic moduli.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Paul
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg 41296, Sweden.
| | - M Stührenberg
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg 41296, Sweden.
| | - S Chen
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - D Rhee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - W-K Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - T W Odom
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA and Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - S C Heilshorn
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - A Enejder
- Department of Biology and Biological Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg 41296, Sweden.
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Yang DY, Ko K, Lee SH, Moon DG, Kim JW, Lee WK. Efficacy and safety of a newly developed polylactic acid microsphere as an injectable bulking agent for penile augmentation: 18-months follow-up. Int J Impot Res 2017; 29:136-141. [DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2017.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 02/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION An elevated serum urate level is recognised as a cause of gouty arthritis and uric acid stone. The level of serum uric acid that accelerates kidney stone formation, however, has not yet been clarified. This study aimed to find out if a high serum urate level is associated with nephrolithiasis. METHODS Patients were recruited from the rheumatology clinic of Taipei City Hospital (Renai and Zhongxing branches) in Taiwan from March 2015 to February 2016. A total of 120 Chinese male patients with newly diagnosed gout and serum urate concentration of >7 mg/dL and no history of kidney stones were divided into two groups according to their serum urate level: <10 mg/dL (group 1, n=80) and ≥10 mg/dL (group 2, n=40). The mean body mass index, blood urea nitrogen level, creatinine level, urinary pH, and kidney ultrasonography were compared between the two groups. RESULTS There were no significant differences in blood urea nitrogen or creatinine level between the two groups. The urine pH in both groups was similar and not statistically significant. Kidney stone formation was detected via ultrasonography in 6.3% (5/80) and 82.5% (33/40) of patients in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P<0.05). CONCLUSION A serum urate level of ≥10 mg/dL may precipitate nephrolithiasis. Further studies are warranted to substantiate the relationship between serum urate level and kidney stone formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Wan
- Department of Immunology and Rheumatology, Taipei City Hospital-Zhongxing Branch, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Taipei City Hospital-Renai Branch, Taiwan
| | - C K Liu
- Department of Urology, Taipei City Hospital-Zhongxing Branch, Taiwan.,Fu Jen Catholic University School of Medicine, Taiwan
| | - M C Ko
- Department of Urology, Taipei City Hospital-Zhongxing Branch, Taiwan
| | - W K Lee
- Department of Urology, Taipei City Hospital-Zhongxing Branch, Taiwan
| | - C S Huang
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei City Hospital-Renai Branch, Taiwan
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Lim Y, Chun S, Lee JH, Baek KH, Lee WK, Yim HW, Kang MI. Association of bone mineral density and diabetic retinopathy in diabetic subjects: the 2008-2011 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Osteoporos Int 2016; 27:2249-2257. [PMID: 26883444 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-016-3527-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Because diabetic retinopathy increases fracture risk, we studied the association between bone mineral density (BMD) and diabetic retinopathy in a nationally representative sample. A significant association between the presence of diabetic retinopathy and low BMD was observed. Therefore, diabetic retinopathy might be considered as a marker of low BMD. INTRODUCTION Several diabetic complications, including nephropathy, retinopathy, and peripheral neuropathy, are associated with a higher fracture risk in diabetic subjects. However, in contrast to diabetic nephropathy and peripheral neuropathy, which are associated with low bone mineral density (BMD), little is known about the association between BMD and diabetic retinopathy. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy is associated with BMD. METHODS This cross-sectional study included a nationally representative sample consisting of 4357 men aged 50 years and older and 4392 postmenopausal women who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (KNHANES) from 2008 to 2011 and underwent BMD measurement by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and diabetic retinopathy assessments using seven standard gradable photographs. RESULTS The diabetic women with retinopathy had lower mean BMD at all measured sites than those without retinopathy, although the BMD difference between the two groups was small (3-5 %). In addition, the diabetic women with retinopathy were 2.27 times more likely to have osteoporosis following adjustments for all clinically relevant covariates. However, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) or diabetic retinopathy was not associated with the prevalence of osteoporosis in men. CONCLUSIONS This study has shown that the presence of diabetic retinopathy is significantly associated with a reduced BMD and increased prevalence of osteoporosis in diabetic women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Lim
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, 137-701, Seoul, Korea
| | - S Chun
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - J H Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - K H Baek
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, 137-701, Seoul, Korea
| | - W K Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - H-W Yim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, 137-701, Republic of Korea
| | - M-I Kang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, 222 Banpo-daero, Seocho-gu, 137-701, Seoul, Korea.
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13
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Kang JH, Lee JS, Hong D, Lee SH, Kim N, Lee WK, Sung TW, Gong YD, Kim SY. Renal cell carcinoma escapes death by p53 depletion through transglutaminase 2-chaperoned autophagy. Cell Death Dis 2016; 7:e2163. [PMID: 27031960 PMCID: PMC4823929 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2016.14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In renal cell carcinoma, transglutaminase 2 (TGase 2) crosslinks p53 in autophagosomes, resulting in p53 depletion and the tumor's evasion of apoptosis. Inhibition of TGase 2 stabilizes p53 and induces tumor cells to enter apoptosis. This study explored the mechanism of TGase 2-dependent p53 degradation. We found that TGase 2 competes with human double minute 2 homolog (HDM2) for binding to p53; promotes autophagy-dependent p53 degradation in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines under starvation; and binds to p53 and p62 simultaneously without ubiquitin-dependent recognition of p62. The bound complex does not have crosslinking activity. A binding assay using a series of deletion mutants of p62, p53 and TGase 2 revealed that the PB1 (Phox and Bem1p-1) domain of p62 (residues 85-110) directly interacts with the β-barrel domains of TGase 2 (residues 592-687), whereas the HDM2-binding domain (transactivation domain, residues 15-26) of p53 interacts with the N terminus of TGase 2 (residues 1-139). In addition to the increase in p53 stability due to TGase 2 inhibition, the administration of a DNA-damaging anti-cancer drug such as doxorubicin-induced apoptosis in RCC cell lines and synergistically reduced tumor volume in a xenograft model. Combination therapy with a TGase 2 inhibitor and a DNA-damaging agent may represent an effective therapeutic approach for treating RCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Kang
- Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - J-S Lee
- Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - D Hong
- Cancer Immunology Branch, Division of Cancer Biology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - S-H Lee
- Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - N Kim
- Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea.,Center for Innovative Drug Library Research, Dongguk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - W-K Lee
- Institute of Life Science and Natural Resources, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - T-W Sung
- Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Y-D Gong
- Center for Innovative Drug Library Research, Dongguk University, Seoul, Korea
| | - S-Y Kim
- Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology Branch, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, Republic of Korea
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14
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Liew SM, Khoo EM, Ho BK, Lee YK, Mimi O, Fazlina MY, Asmah R, Lee WK, Harmy MY, Chinna K, Jiloris FD. Tuberculosis in Malaysia: predictors of treatment outcomes in a national registry. Int J Tuberc Lung Dis 2016; 19:764-71. [PMID: 26056099 DOI: 10.5588/ijtld.14.0767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [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: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine treatment outcomes and associated predictors of all patients registered in 2012 with the Malaysian National Tuberculosis (TB) Surveillance Registry. METHODS Sociodemographic and clinical data were analysed. Unfavourable outcomes included treatment failure, transferred out and lost to follow-up, treatment defaulters, those not evaluated and all-cause mortality. RESULTS In total, 21 582 patients were registered. The mean age was 42.36 ± 17.77 years, and 14.2% were non-Malaysians. The majority were new cases (93.6%). One fifth (21.5%) had unfavourable outcomes; of these, 46% died, 49% transferred out or defaulted and 1% failed treatment. Predictors of unfavourable outcomes were older age, male sex, foreign citizenship, lower education, no bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination scar, treatment in tertiary settings, smoking, previous anti-tuberculosis treatment, human immunodeficiency virus infection, not receiving directly observed treatment, advanced chest radiography findings, multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) and extra-pulmonary TB. For all-cause mortality, predictors were similar except for rural dwelling and nationality (higher mortality among locals). Absence of BCG scar, previous treatment for TB and MDR-TB were not found to be predictors of all-cause mortality. Indigenous populations in East Malaysia had lower rates of unfavourable treatment outcomes. CONCLUSIONS One fifth of TB patients had unfavourable outcomes. Intervention strategies should target those at increased risk of unfavourable outcomes and all-cause mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Liew
- University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - E M Khoo
- University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - B K Ho
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Y K Lee
- University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - O Mimi
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - M Y Fazlina
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - R Asmah
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - W K Lee
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - M Y Harmy
- University Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - K Chinna
- University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - F D Jiloris
- Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
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15
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Chung KF, Yeung WF, Zhang SP, Zhang ZJ, Wong MT, Lee WK, Chan KW. Acupuncture for persistent insomnia associated with major depressive disorder: a randomised controlled trial. Hong Kong Med J 2016; 22 Suppl 2:S9-S14. [PMID: 26908336] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- K F Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong
| | - W F Yeung
- School of Chinese Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - S P Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University
| | - Z J Zhang
- School of Chinese Medicine, University of Hong Kong
| | - M T Wong
- Department of Psychiatry, Kowloon Hospital
| | - W K Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Kwai Chung Hospital
| | - K W Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, United Christian Hospital
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16
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Abstract
Ballistocardiogram (BCG), which displays the mechanical activity of heart, has been a subject of interest for several years due to its advantages in taking unobtrusive physiological measurements. In the field of sleep science, researchers actively study sleep architecture and clinically apply various sleep-related conditions through BCG-derived biological information such as the heartbeat, respiration and body movements of subjects. However, most of these studies have involved only adults. This area of research may be even more important with babies to monitor their biological signals without confinement. For this reason, we developed a physiological signal monitoring bed for baby by using a load cell. Heartbeat and respiration information was assessed with average respective performance errors of 1.53% and 2.53% compared to commercial equipment. The results showed the possibility of applying BCG technology to baby. Therefore, we expect that BCG-derived signals can be extensively applied to analyze sleep architecture and clinical applications in baby as they are with adults.
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17
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Hwang IR, Choi YK, Lee WK, Kim JG, Lee IK, Kim SW, Park KG. Association between prolonged breastfeeding and bone mineral density and osteoporosis in postmenopausal women: KNHANES 2010-2011. Osteoporos Int 2016; 27:257-65. [PMID: 26373982 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-015-3292-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED This study showed that a negative correlation between duration of breastfeeding and bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine and prolonged breastfeeding is an independent risk for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. The present study suggests that postmenopausal women with a history of prolonged breastfeeding require more careful screening for osteoporosis. INTRODUCTION Several studies suggest that breastfeeding and childbirth lead to maternal calcium loss and a decline in BMD. While the association between breastfeeding and BMD immediately after weaning is well-established, the effects of breastfeeding on postmenopausal women have been controversial. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of breastfeeding on bone mineral density (BMD) and the prevalence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. METHODS The present study was a cross-sectional survey based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2010 and 2011 data. The association between breastfeeding and BMD and osteoporosis was examined in 1222 postmenopausal women. RESULTS The duration of breastfeeding and BMD in the lumbar spine showed a negative correlation. The association between duration of breastfeeding and BMD remained significant after adjustment for reproductive factors and other confounding factors (P = 0.008). However, the number of deliveries and age at the time of delivery did not correlate with BMD at any site after adjustment. Moreover, the prevalence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with a history of prolonged breastfeeding was significantly higher than that in women with a short history of breastfeeding (≥37 months, OR = 3.292; 95 % CI 1.485-7.299). The prevalence of lumbar spine fracture showed a significant increasing trend with the increase in the duration of breastfeeding. CONCLUSION Prolonged breastfeeding was significantly associated with low BMD in the lumbar spine and higher prevalence of osteoporosis. However, the number of deliveries or age at the time of childbirth did not influence BMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- I R Hwang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Y K Choi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - W K Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - J G Kim
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - I K Lee
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - S W Kim
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea.
| | - K G Park
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea.
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18
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Wong LY, Yiu RL, Chiu CK, Lee WK, Lee YL, Kwong PK, Lo WT. Prevalence of Psychiatric Morbidity in Chinese Subjects with Knee Osteoarthritis in a Hong Kong Orthopaedic Clinic. East Asian Arch Psychiatry 2015; 25:150-158. [PMID: 26764289] [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: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify the prevalence and associated factors of psychiatric morbidities and to evaluate the effectiveness of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) in screening for psychiatric morbidity in patients with knee osteoarthritis in a local orthopaedic clinic. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2013 to June 2014 to examine patients with knee osteoarthritis at a specialist orthopaedic clinic. They were evaluated for psychiatric diagnoses using the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I). Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics were compared between patients with and without psychiatric morbidity. Patients were also assessed using the HADS with accuracy compared with the psychiatric diagnoses made by the SCID-I. RESULTS Of the 115 patients, 39% had current psychiatric disorders. Logistic regression analysis revealed that limitation of physical activity, perceived absence of confidant, a history of psychiatric illness, and follow-up in orthopaedic clinic for ≥ 5 years were independent factors associated with psychiatric disorders. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of psychiatric morbidity in patients with knee osteoarthritis was significant. Recognition of independent associated factors can aid in early identification and intervention in patients who are at risk of developing psychiatric morbidity. The HADS is a useful means to screen for psychiatric morbidity in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Y Wong
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - R L Yiu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - C K Chiu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - W K Lee
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Y L Lee
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - P K Kwong
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - W Tl Lo
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
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19
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Wong T, Lee WK. Tactile hallucination in a case of syringomyelia. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2015; 27:e70. [PMID: 25716502 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.13110349] [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: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T Wong
- Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
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20
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Tung KY, Cheng KS, Lee WK, Kwong PK, Chan KW, Law ACB, Lo WTL. Psychiatric Morbidity in Chinese Adults with Type 1 Diabetes in Hong Kong. East Asian Arch Psychiatry 2015; 25:128-136. [PMID: 26429840] [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: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence of psychiatric morbidity and identify the correlates, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire to screen for psychiatric morbidity in Chinese adults with type 1 diabetes. METHODS Subjects were recruited from a local public diabetes specialist outpatient clinic from August 2013 to January 2014. Demographic and clinical factors were recorded. Psychiatric diagnosis was established using the Chinese-bilingual version of the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM-IV Axis I disorders. Scores for the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire were compared with the psychiatric diagnosis. RESULTS Of the 136 patients, the point prevalence of overall psychiatric, depressive, and anxiety disorders was 39.7%, 23.5%, and 25.7%, respectively. Family history of mental illness, smoking status, history of mental illness, presence of social problems, perceived absence of confidant, presence of neuropathy and hyperlipidaemia, as well as higher level of glycosylated haemoglobin were found to be the associated factors. CONCLUSION Psychiatric disorders were common in Chinese adults with type 1 diabetes. Finding out associated factors and using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire as a screening tool helped to identify patients in a diabetes clinic with psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Y Tung
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - K S Cheng
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - W K Lee
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - P K Kwong
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - K W Chan
- Medical and Geriatrics Department, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - A C B Law
- Medical and Geriatrics Department, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - W T L Lo
- Kwai Chung Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
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21
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Lee SY, Choi JE, Jeon HS, Hong MJ, Choi YY, Kang HG, Yoo SS, Lee EB, Jeong JY, Lee WK, Lee J, Cha SI, Kim CH, Kim YT, Jheon S, Son JW, Park JY. A genetic variation in microRNA target site of KRT81 gene is associated with survival in early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer. Ann Oncol 2015; 26:1142-1148. [PMID: 25716425 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdv100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [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: 07/02/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2015] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have a key role in carcinogenesis through negative regulation of their target genes. Therefore, genetic variations in miRNAs or their target sites may affect miRNA-mRNA interactions, thereby result in altered expression of target genes. This study was conducted to investigate the associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) located in the miRNA target sites (poly-miRTSs) and survival of patients with early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). METHODS Using public SNP database and miRNA target sites prediction program, 354 poly-miRTSs were selected for genotyping. Among these, 154 SNPs applicable to Sequenom's MassARRAY platform were investigated in 357 patients. A replication study was carried out on an independent patient population (n = 479). Renilla luciferase assay and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were conducted to examine functional relevance of potentially functional poly-miRTSs. RESULTS Of the 154 SNPs analyzed in a discovery set, 14 SNPs were significantly associated with survival outcomes. Among these, KRT81 rs3660G>C was found to be associated with survival outcomes in the validation cohort. In the combined analysis, patients with the rs3660 GC + CC genotype had a significantly better overall survival compared with those with GG genotype [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for OS, 0.65; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50-0.85; P = 0.001]. An increased expression of the reporter gene for the C allele of rs3660 compared with the G allele was observed by luciferase assay. Consistently, the C allele was associated with higher relative expression level of KRT81 in tumor tissues. CONCLUSION The rs3660G>C affects KRT81 expression and thus influences survival in early-stage NSCLC. The analysis of the rs3660G>C polymorphism may be useful to identify patients at high risk of a poor disease outcome.
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MESH Headings
- 3' Untranslated Regions
- Aged
- Binding Sites
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/genetics
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/mortality
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/pathology
- Carcinoma, Non-Small-Cell Lung/therapy
- Computational Biology
- Databases, Genetic
- Female
- Gene Expression Profiling
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Gene Frequency
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- HEK293 Cells
- Humans
- Kaplan-Meier Estimate
- Keratins, Hair-Specific/genetics
- Keratins, Hair-Specific/metabolism
- Keratins, Type II/genetics
- Keratins, Type II/metabolism
- Lung Neoplasms/genetics
- Lung Neoplasms/metabolism
- Lung Neoplasms/mortality
- Lung Neoplasms/pathology
- Lung Neoplasms/therapy
- Male
- MicroRNAs/genetics
- MicroRNAs/metabolism
- Middle Aged
- Neoplasm Staging
- Phenotype
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
- Proportional Hazards Models
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Risk Factors
- Time Factors
- Transfection
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Lee
- Lung Cancer Center, Kyungpook National University Medical Center, Daegu; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - J E Choi
- Lung Cancer Center, Kyungpook National University Medical Center, Daegu; Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine.
| | - H S Jeon
- The Molecular Diagnostics & Imaging Research Institute
| | - M J Hong
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine
| | - Y Y Choi
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine
| | - H G Kang
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine
| | - S S Yoo
- Lung Cancer Center, Kyungpook National University Medical Center, Daegu; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - E B Lee
- Departments of Thoracic Surgery
| | | | - W K Lee
- Biostatistics Center, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - J Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - S I Cha
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - C H Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu
| | - Y T Kim
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Seoul National University School of Medicine, Seoul
| | - S Jheon
- Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Seoul National University School of Medicine, Seoul
| | - J W Son
- Department of Internal Medicine, Konyang University Hospital, Daejeon
| | - J Y Park
- Lung Cancer Center, Kyungpook National University Medical Center, Daegu; Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu; Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine; BK21 Plus KNU Biomedical Convergence Program, Department of Biomedical Science, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
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22
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Lim DH, Park SH, Baik SJ, Lee HA, Lee WK, Kong KA, Park HS, Jung-Choi KH. Population Attributable Fraction of Lower Education for Mortality in Korea with Improvement of Educational Attainment and No Improvement in Mortality Inequalities. Eur J Public Health 2014. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/cku165.090] [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: 11/14/2022] Open
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Lui
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong
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24
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Nair AR, Smeets K, Keunen E, Lee WK, Thévenod F, Van Kerkhove E, Cuypers A. Renal cells exposed to cadmium in vitro and in vivo: normalizing gene expression data. J Appl Toxicol 2014; 35:478-84. [PMID: 25042840 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal with a long half-life in biological systems. This half-life is partly as a result of metallothioneins (MTs), metal-binding proteins with a high affinity for Cd. The high retention properties of the kidneys reside in proximal tubular cells that possess transport mechanisms for Cd-MT uptake, ultimately leading to more Cd accumulation. Researchers have studied MT-metal interactions using various techniques including quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), an efficient tool for quantifying gene expression. Often a poor choice of reference genes, which is represented by their instability and condition dependency, leads to inefficient normalization of gene expression data and misinterpretations. This study demonstrates the importance of an efficient normalization strategy in toxicological research. A selection of stable reference genes was proposed in order to acquire reliable and reproducible gene quantification under metal stress using MT expression as an example. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo setups were compared to identify the influence of toxicological compounds in function of the experimental design. This study shows that glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (Gapdh), tyrosine monooxygenase/tryptophan5-monooxygenase activation-protein, zeta polypeptide (Ywhaz) and beta-actin (Actb) are the most stable reference genes in a kidney proximal tubular cell line exposed to moderate and high Cd concentrations, applied as CdCl2 . A slightly different sequence in reference gene stability was found in renal cells isolated from rats in vivo exposed to Cd. It was further shown that three reference genes are required for efficient normalization in this experimental setup. This study demonstrates the importance of an efficient normalization strategy in toxicological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Nair
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan Building D, 3590, Diepenbeek, Belgium
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25
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Abstract
Congenital pseudarthrosis of the clavicle is a rare clinical entity, first described in 1910. We report on a newborn baby girl who presented with a painless lump over mid-portion of right clavicle at her routine newborn examination, which was subsequently diagnosed as a congenital pseudarthrosis. Here we explore its pathogenesis, elaborate on its differential diagnoses in paediatric patients, and comment on its distinct radiological features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony H T Sung
- Department of Radiology, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Chai Wan, Hong Kong.
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Hong SW, Moon JH, Kim JS, Shin JS, Jung KA, Lee WK, Jeong SY, Hwang JJ, Lee SJ, Suh YA, Kim I, Nam KY, Han S, Kim JE, Kim KP, Hong YS, Lee JL, Lee WJ, Choi EK, Lee JS, Jin DH, Kim TW. p34 is a novel regulator of the oncogenic behavior of NEDD4-1 and PTEN. Cell Death Differ 2013; 21:146-60. [PMID: 24141722 DOI: 10.1038/cdd.2013.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PTEN is one of the most frequently mutated or deleted tumor suppressors in human cancers. NEDD4-1 was recently identified as the E3 ubiquitin ligase for PTEN; however, a number of important questions remain regarding the role of ubiquitination in regulating PTEN function and the mechanisms by which PTEN ubiquitination is regulated. In the present study, we demonstrated that p34, which was identified as a binding partner of NEDD4-1, controls PTEN ubiquitination by regulating NEDD4-1 protein stability. p34 interacts with the WW1 domain of NEDD4-1, an interaction that enhances NEDD4-1 stability. Expression of p34 promotes PTEN poly-ubiquitination, leading to PTEN protein degradation, whereas p34 knockdown results in PTEN mono-ubiquitination. Notably, an inverse correlation between PTEN and p34/NEDD4-1 levels was confirmed in tumor samples from colon cancer patients. Thus, p34 acts as a key regulator of the oncogenic behavior of NEDD4-1 and PTEN.
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Affiliation(s)
- S-W Hong
- 1] Innovative Cancer Research, Asan Medical Center, Asan Institute for Life Science, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea [2] Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Sim SY, Lee WK, Baek HJ, Park KS. A nonintrusive temperature measuring system for estimating deep body temperature in bed. Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc 2013; 2012:3460-3. [PMID: 23366671 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2012.6346710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Deep body temperature is an important indicator that reflects human being's overall physiological states. Existing deep body temperature monitoring systems are too invasive to apply to awake patients for a long time. Therefore, we proposed a nonintrusive deep body temperature measuring system. To estimate deep body temperature nonintrusively, a dual-heat-flux probe and double-sensor probes were embedded in a neck pillow. When a patient uses the neck pillow to rest, the deep body temperature can be assessed using one of the thermometer probes embedded in the neck pillow. We could estimate deep body temperature in 3 different sleep positions. Also, to reduce the initial response time of dual-heat-flux thermometer which measures body temperature in supine position, we employed the curve-fitting method to one subject. And thereby, we could obtain the deep body temperature in a minute. This result shows the possibility that the system can be used as practical temperature monitoring system with appropriate curve-fitting model. In the next study, we would try to establish a general fitting model that can be applied to all of the subjects. In addition, we are planning to extract meaningful health information such as sleep structure analysis from deep body temperature data which are acquired from this system.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Sim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Seoul National University, Republic of Korea.
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Kim CH, Lim JK, Lee SY, Won DI, Cha SI, Park JY, Lee WK, Lee J. Predictive factors for tuberculosis in patients with a TB-PCR-negative bronchial aspirate. Infection 2013; 41:187-94. [PMID: 23283746 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-012-0394-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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: 10/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), with a tuberculosis (TB)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-negative bronchial aspirate (BA), but a positive culture result is often encountered in clinical practice. However, limited data are available concerning clinical judgment in patients with suspected PTB and a TB-PCR-negative BA pending culture results. The present study aimed to identify predictors for PTB in patients with a TB-PCR-negative BA. METHODS A retrospective study was conducted on patients who had undergone a bronchoscopy because of suspected PTB. Clinical, laboratory, and computed tomography (CT) findings were investigated in PTB patients with TB-PCR-negative but positive culture BA results, and non-PTB patients with a radiographic lesion comparable to the former. RESULTS Of 250 patients screened, 31 (12 %) were diagnosed with PTB by positive culture results only. Of these 31 patients, 30 (97 %) had a lesion within one-third of the hemithorax as determined by chest radiography. In the final analysis of 30 PTB and 65 non-PTB patients with comparable radiographic lesions, a positive QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT) result was independently associated with an increased risk of a positive TB culture. CT findings of consolidation were a negative predictor for PTB. Patients with a negative QFT result and consolidation had a negative predictive value of 95 % for PTB, while patients with a positive QFT result and nodular CT abnormalities without consolidation had a positive predictive value of 86 % for PTB. CONCLUSION The simple combination of CT findings of consolidation and QFT test results may help clinicians to refine decision-making in patients with a TB-PCR-negative BA.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, South Korea.
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Yang DY, Lee WK, Kim SC. Tolerability and efficacy of newly developed penile injection of cross-linked dextran and polymethylmethacrylate mixture on penile enhancement: 6 months follow-up. Int J Impot Res 2012; 25:99-103. [DOI: 10.1038/ijir.2012.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Sim SY, Jeon HS, Chung GS, Kim SK, Kwon SJ, Lee WK, Park KS. Fall detection algorithm for the elderly using acceleration sensors on the shoes. Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc 2012; 2011:4935-8. [PMID: 22255445 DOI: 10.1109/iembs.2011.6091223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The rate of increase in the number of aging population in Korea is very rapid among OECD-member countries. And fall accident is one of the most common factors that threaten the health of the elderly. Therefore, it is needed to develop a fall detection system for the elderly. Most fall detection systems use accelerometers attached on the torso. And in various studies, it was verified that these systems have high sensitivity and high specificity. However, the elderly would feel uncomfortable when banding a sensor on the chest every day. Therefore, in this study, we attached an accelerometer on the shoes to detect fall in the elderly. This prototype system would be improved as a smaller, low-power system in the next study. Also, applying energy harvesting device to this shoe system is being developed to reduce the weight of battery.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Sim
- Interdisciplinary Program of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, Seoul national university, Republic of Korea.
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Chung WJ, Chung HW, Shin MJ, Lee SH, Lee MH, Lee JS, Kim MJ, Lee WK. MRI to differentiate benign from malignant soft-tissue tumours of the extremities: a simplified systematic imaging approach using depth, size and heterogeneity of signal intensity. Br J Radiol 2012; 85:e831-6. [PMID: 22553293 DOI: 10.1259/bjr/27487871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Differentiating between malignant and benign lesions on the basis of MR images depends on the experience of the radiologist. For non-experts, we aimed to develop a simplified systematic MRI approach that uses depth, size and heterogeneity on T(2) weighted MR images (T(2)WI) to differentiate between malignant and benign lesions, and evaluated its diagnostic accuracy. METHODS MR images of 266 patients with histologically proven soft-tissue tumours of the extremities (102 malignant, 164 benign) were analysed according to depth (superficial or deep), size (<50, ≥50 mm) and signal intensity (homogeneous or heterogeneous) on T(2)WI, to determine the ability of each to predict benign and malignant tumours. These three parameters were categorised into systematic combinations of different orders of application, and each combination was assessed for its ability to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions. RESULTS Univariate analysis showed that depth, size and heterogeneity on T(2)WI differed significantly between benign and malignant masses (p<0.0001 each). Multiple logistic regression analysis, however, showed that depth was not helpful in distinguishing benign from malignant lesions. The systematic combination of signal intensity, size and depth, in that order, was superior to other combinations, resulting in higher diagnostic values for malignancy, with a sensitivity of 64%, a specificity of 85%, a positive predictive value of 32%, a negative predictive value of 59% and an accuracy of 77%. CONCLUSION A simplified systematic imaging approach, in the order signal intensity, size and depth, would be a reference to distinguish between benign and malignant soft-tissue tumours for non-experts.
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Affiliation(s)
- W J Chung
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Lee WK, Van Tonder F, Tartaglia CJ, Dagia C, Cazzato RL, Duddalwar VA, Chang SD. CT appearances of abdominal tuberculosis. Clin Radiol 2011; 67:596-604. [PMID: 22212637 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2011.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [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: 10/04/2011] [Accepted: 11/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to review and illustrate the spectrum of computed tomography (CT) appearances of abdominal tuberculosis. Tuberculosis can affect any organ or tissue in the abdomen, and can be mistaken for other inflammatory or neoplastic conditions. The most common sites of tuberculosis in the abdomen include lymph nodes, genitourinary tract, peritoneal cavity and gastrointestinal tract. The liver, spleen, biliary tract, pancreas and adrenals are rarely affected, but are more likely in HIV-seropositive patients and in miliary tuberculosis. This article should alert the radiologist to consider abdominal tuberculosis in the correct clinical setting to ensure timely diagnosis and enable appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- W-K Lee
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia.
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Jeon S, Lee WK. Aggravated capillary non-perfusion after intravitreal bevacizumab for macular edema secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus and anti-phospholipid syndrome. Lupus 2011; 21:335-7. [PMID: 21976400 DOI: 10.1177/0961203311422095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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
A 22-year-old female with history of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was referred for evaluation of decreased visual acuity in her right eye. Her best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at the time of presentation was 20/160. Widespread cotton wool spots and macular edema were seen on biomicroscopy. Fluorescein angiography (FA) revealed retinal arterial and venous obstruction with capillary nonperfusion at the superotemporal retina. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was diagnosed based on positive lupus anti-coagulant and ocular manifestations. Scattered laser photocoagulation was applied at the nonperfusion area but the visual acuity continued to deteriorate due to macular edema. Intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) was administered for macular edema. One day after IVB, the BCVA decreased to count fingers. FA revealed extended non-perfusion from the superotemporal area to the posterior pole. Use of intravitreal bevacizumab for macular edema secondary to SLE or APS should be considered carefully and patients monitored closely for vascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Jeon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
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Law ST, Lee WK, Li MKK, Lok KH. An unusual cause of obstructive jaundice. Hong Kong Med J 2011; 17:332-334. [PMID: 21813905] [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] Open
Abstract
Small-cell carcinomas of lung origin have been well characterised for their clinico-histopathological features. However, extrapulmonary small-cell carcinomas are rare, and in particular, they are extremely rare at the ampullary region. We report herein a case of small-cell carcinoma of ampulla of Vater and review its clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- S T Law
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong.
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Weon BM, Kim JT, Je JH, Yi JM, Wang S, Lee WK. Colloid coalescence with focused x rays. Phys Rev Lett 2011; 107:018301. [PMID: 21797577 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.107.018301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Received: 11/23/2010] [Revised: 02/17/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
We show direct evidence that focused x rays enable us to merge polymer colloidal particles at room temperature. This phenomenon is ascribed to the photochemical scission of colloids with x rays, reducing the molecular weight, glass transition temperature, surface tension, and viscosity of colloids. The observation of the neck bridge growth with time shows that the x-ray-induced colloid coalescence is analogous to viscoelastic coalescence. This finding suggests a feasible protocol of photonic nanofabrication by sintering or welding of polymers, without thermal damage, using x-ray photonics.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Weon
- X-ray Imaging Center, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Korea.
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Ng CH, Chan SW, Lee WK, Lai L, Lok KH, Li KK, Luk SH, Szeto ML. Hepatocarcinogenesis of regenerative and dysplastic nodules in Chinese patients. Hong Kong Med J 2011; 17:11-19. [PMID: 21282821] [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: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the development rate of hepatocellular carcinoma and survival of patients diagnosed to have regenerative, and low-grade and high-grade dysplastic liver nodules. DESIGN Retrospective descriptive study. SETTING Acute public hospital, Hong Kong. PATIENTS Patients with non-malignant liver nodules confirmed by imaging-guided liver biopsy between January 1997 and December 2008. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Rates of hepatocellular carcinoma development and survival. RESULTS A total of 147 patients with non-malignant liver nodules were followed up over a median duration of 29 months. The initial histological diagnosis included regenerative nodules (n=74), low-grade dysplastic nodules (n=34), and high-grade dysplastic nodules (n=39). The respective cumulative hepatocellular carcinoma development rate during the first, second, third, and fourth year were 3%, 5%, 9% and 12% for simple regenerative nodules, 29%, 35%, 38% and 44% for low-grade dysplastic nodules, and 38%, 41%, 51% and 51% for high-grade dysplastic nodules. The hepatocellular carcinoma development rate was highest in those with high-grade dysplastic nodules. Multivariate analysis showed that histological dysplastic changes were associated with increased alpha-fetoprotein levels and advanced age, which were both independent predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma development. Histological dysplastic changes, male sex, advanced age, prolonged prothrombin time, and ultrasound appearances were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION The presence of dysplastic change in liver nodules increased the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma development and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- C H Ng
- Department of Medicine, Tuen Mun Hospital, Tuen Mun, Hong Kong.
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Mok VCT, Wong A, Wong K, Chu WCW, Xiong Y, Chan AYY, Kwok TCY, Hu X, Lee WK, Tang WK, Wong KSL, Wong S. Executive dysfunction and left frontal white matter hyperintensities are correlated with neuropsychiatric symptoms in stroke patients with confluent white matter hyperintensities. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2011; 30:254-60. [PMID: 20847556 DOI: 10.1159/000318744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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] [Accepted: 06/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS This study aimed to determine the clinical and neuroimaging correlates of the presence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in stroke patients with age-related confluent white matter hyperintensities (WMH). METHODS The Neuropsychiatric Inventory was utilized to detect the presence of 12 symptoms. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify clinical and neuroimaging correlates of the presence of symptoms. RESULTS Seventy-seven stroke patients (mean WMH volume: 39.5 cm(3)) were recruited. Thirty patients (39%) had ≥ 1 neuropsychiatric symptom. Poor executive function was associated with the presence of any symptoms and symptoms other than depression. More severe left frontal WMH was associated with depression. CONCLUSION Executive dysfunction and left frontal WMH are correlated with neuropsychiatric symptoms in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent C T Mok
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
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Lee HW, Lim MS, Lee J, Jegal MY, Kim DW, Lee WK, Jang IJ, Shin JG, Yoon YR. Frequency of CYP2C9 variant alleles, including CYP2C9*13 in a Korean population and effect on glimepiride pharmacokinetics. J Clin Pharm Ther 2011; 37:105-11. [PMID: 21208246 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2710.2010.01238.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 is a clinically important enzyme involved in the metabolism of many drugs commonly used in humans. Of several allelic variants known to affect the catalytic activity of the CYP2C9 enzyme, the frequencies of the CYP2C9*3 and CYP2C9*13 alleles in the Korean population have been reported as 1·1% and 0·6%, respectively. Our objective was to re-evaluate the frequencies of CYP2C9 allelic variants in the Korean population, including the CYP2C9*13 allele by pyrosequencing, and to investigate the pharmacokinetics of glimepiride in relation to CYP2C9 genotypes, including CYP2C9*3/*3. METHODS 295 subjects were genotyped for CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 using the TaqMan procedure, and for CYP2C9*13 using pyrosequencing. These data were combined with our previously reported data to assess the CYP2C9 allele and genotype frequencies in 869 Korean subjects. Data from 24 of the 295 genotyped subjects (22 CYP2C9*1/*1 homozygotes, one CYP2C9*1/*3 heterozygote and one CYP2C9*3/*3 homozygote) who had participated in a bioequivalence study were analysed retrospectively to examine the effects of CYP2C9 genotype on glimepiride pharmacokinetics. RESULTS The frequencies of the CYP2C9*1/*3, *3/*3, and *1/*13 genotypes in the study population (n = 295) were 0·081 (n = 24), 0·010 (n = 3) and 0·003 (n = 1), respectively. In the 869 subjects from the combined studies, allele frequencies for CYP2C9*3 and CYP2C9*13 were 0·025 (95% CI: 0·018, 0·033) and 0·002 (95% CI: 0·000, 0·010), respectively. Relative to CYP2C9*1 homozygotes, the one CYP2C9*3 homozygous subject was found to have a higher AUC(0-∞) value (490% of the reference value) and a lower oral clearance rate (18% of the reference). WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION This study is the first examination of CYP2C9*3 homozygotes in the Korean population. Our data on the one subject with this genotype suggest that CYP2C9*3/*3 momozygotes have lower clearance of glimepiride and are exposed to higher levels of the drug than wild-type homozygotes. Although we identified a subject with the CYP2C9*13 allele using a new pyrosequencing assay, we were unfortunately unable to investigate its effects on glimepiride pharmacokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- H W Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
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Xiong Y, Yang J, Wong A, Wong CHK, Chan SSW, Li HHS, Tam LHP, Bao JWK, Wong GCY, Chen X, Chu WCW, Lee WK, Wong KS, Mok VCT. Operational definitions improve reliability of the age-related white matter changes scale. Eur J Neurol 2010; 18:744-9. [PMID: 21138503 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2010.03272.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Although the age-related white matter changes (ARWMC) scale has been advocated to be applicable to both MRI and CT for assessing the severity of WMC, its inter-rater reliability on CT is only fair. We aimed to operationalize the ARWMC scale and investigate the effect of this operationalization on the reliability and validity on MRI and CT. METHODS Operational definitions of the ARWMC scale were derived from Erkinjuntti research criteria for subcortical vascular dementia and Scheltens scale. Using original and operationalized ARWMC scale, eight observers recorded the time for rating per MRI and per CT. We investigated the inter-rater and intrarater reliability as well as validity against volume using data from 97 stroke patients. RESULTS Inter-rater reliability of the operationalized scale on CT (0.874, 95% confidence interval [0.780-0.934]) was better than the original scale (0.569, 95% confidence interval [0.247-0.775]). Its intrarater reliability on CT (0.869) and reliability on MRI (inter-rater: 0.860; intrarater: 0.838) was comparable with the original scale (CT intrarater: 0.750 and on MRI inter-rater: 0.845; intrarater: 0.853). The time required to administer the operationalized scale (4'2″ for MRI and 1'18″ for CT) was similar to that of the original scale (3'56″ for MRI and 1'16″ for CT). The original scale and operationalized scale also significantly correlated with WMC volume (operationalized scale ρ = 0.613, P < 0.001, original scale ρ = 0.638, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Operational definitions improve the inter-rater reliability of ARWMC scale on CT, and it correlates with volumetric measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Xiong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Shin MS, Han SK, Ji AR, Kim KS, Lee WK. Isolation and characterization of bacteriocin-producing bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract of broiler chickens for probiotic use. J Appl Microbiol 2009; 105:2203-12. [PMID: 19120666 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2008.03935.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To isolate and characterize the bacteriocin-producing bacteria (BPB) from the gastrointestinal tract of broiler chickens for probiotic use. METHODS AND RESULTS In total, 291 bacterial strains were isolated from broilers and screened for bacteriocin-producing ability. The bacteriocins produced by Enterococcus faecium SH 528, Ent. faecium SH 632 and Pediococcus pentosaceus SH 740 displayed inhibitory activity against pathogens including Clostridium perfringens and Listeria monocytogenes. Activity of the bacteriocins remained unchanged after 30 min of heat treatment at 60 degrees C or exposure to organic solvents, but diminished after treatment with proteolytic enzymes. PCR was used to detect the structural genes enterocin A and B in SH 528, enterocin L50 and P in SH 632, and pediocin PA-1 in SH 740. Most of them were resistant to 0.5% bile salts and remained viable after 2 h at pH 3.0. Ent. faecium SH 528 exhibited the highest amylase activity among the strains tested. CONCLUSIONS We selected Ent. faecium SH 528 and SH 632 and Ped. pentosaceus SH 740 by probiotic selection criteria including inhibition activity against pathogens. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The isolated BPB could potentially be used in the poultry industry as probiotics to control pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Shin
- Korea Bio Science Research Institute of Organic Bio Tech Co. Ltd, Jincheon, Korea
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Kim EB, Lee WK, Park CY, Yu DH, Lee SK, Park SE. Direct comparison of optical frequency combs using a comb-injection-lock technique. Opt Express 2008; 16:10721-10727. [PMID: 18607488 DOI: 10.1364/oe.16.010721] [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: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
This paper demonstrates a direct comparison of optical frequency combs (OFCs) with different repetition rates without a stable intermediate laser using a single-mode comb-injection-lock technique. Two OFCs based on Ti:Sapphire mode-locked lasers were compared utilizing a single-mode diode laser for the selection and the amplification of one mode of an OFC by comb-injection, which makes the direct comb comparison possible. The frequencies of the two combs were found to agree within 0.019 Hz at 352 THz with the uncertainty of 0.25 Hz (7.1 x 10(-16) ). This is one of the best results among the comparisons of combs referenced to a microwave frequency. This technique simplifies the comb comparison utilities and can be applied even when repetition rates differ.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Kim
- Division of physical Metrology, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science,1 Doryong-Dong, Yuseong-Gu, Daejeon 305-340, Korea
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Shin MS, Han SK, Ryu JS, Kim KS, Lee WK. Isolation and partial characterization of a bacteriocin produced by Pediococcus pentosaceus K23-2 isolated from Kimchi. J Appl Microbiol 2008; 105:331-9. [PMID: 18540969 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2672.2008.03770.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Screening and partial characterization of a bacteriocin produced by Pediococcus pentosaceus K23-2 isolated from Kimchi, a traditional Korean fermented vegetable. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 1000 lactic acid bacteria were isolated from various Kimchi samples and screened for the production of bacteriocin. Pediocin K23-2, a bacteriocin produced by the Pediococcus pentosaceus K23-2 strain, showed strong inhibitory activity against Listeria monocytogenes. The bacteriocin activity remained unchanged after 15 min of heat treatment at 121 degrees C or exposure to organic solvents; however, it diminished after treatment with proteolytic enzymes. The bacteriocin was maximally produced at 37 degrees C, when the pH of the culture broth was maintained at 5.0 during the fermentation, although the optimum pH for growth was 7.0. The molecular weight of the bacteriocin was about 5 kDa according to a tricine SDS-PAGE analysis. CONCLUSIONS Pediococcus pentosaceus K23-2 isolated from Kimchi produces a bacteriocin, which shares similar characteristics to the Class IIa bacteriocins. The bacteriocin is heat stable and shows wide antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, especially L. monocytogenes. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Pediocin K23-2 and pediocin K23-2-producing P. pentosaceus K23-2 could potentially be used in the food and feed industries as natural biopreservatives, and for probiotic application to humans or livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Shin
- Korea Bio Science Research Institute of Organic Bio Tech Co. Ltd., Jincheon, Korea
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Kim KM, Park SH, Kim JS, Lee WK, Cha SI, Kim CH, Kang YM, Jung TH, Kim IS, Park JY. Polymorphisms in the type IV collagen alpha3 gene and the risk of COPD. Eur Respir J 2008; 32:35-41. [PMID: 18385178 DOI: 10.1183/09031936.00076207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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
A number of genome-wide linkage analyses have identified the 2q33.3-2q37.2 region as the most likely to contain the genes that contribute to the susceptibility to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It was hypothesised that the type IV collagen alpha3 (COL4A3) gene, which is one of the genes located in the 2q33.3-2q37.2 region, may act as a low-penetrance susceptibility gene for COPD. To test this hypothesis, the association of COL4A3 -1162T>C, IVS2+12C>A, P141L, G162E, H451R, P574L and *315C>A polymorphisms with the risk of COPD was investigated in a case-control study of 311 COPD patients and 386 controls. The presence of at least one 451R allele was associated with a significantly higher risk of COPD compared with the 451 H/H genotype (adjusted odds ratio 1.48, 95% confidence interval (1.03-2.14)). When the subjects were stratified according to age and COPD severity, the 451R allele was associated with a significantly higher risk of COPD only in younger individuals with severe COPD (3.02 (1.37-6.67)). In conclusion, these findings suggest that the type IV collagen alpha3 gene contributes to the genetic susceptibility to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Kim
- Dept of Biochemistry, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Samduk 2a 50, Daegu, 700-412, Republic of Korea
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Seo JS, Cho NY, Kim HR, Tsurumi T, Jang YS, Lee WK, Lee SK. Cell cycle arrest and lytic induction of EBV-transformed B lymphoblastoid cells by a histone deacetylase inhibitor, Trichostatin A. Oncol Rep 2008; 19:93-98. [PMID: 18097580] [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: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Latent infection of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is strongly associated with the pathogenesis of several human tumor types. The restricted expression of the latent EBV antigens is critical for EBV-associated tumors to escape from immune surveillance. EBV lytic replication can be triggered by various treatments and the induced lytic genes cause strong cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses. Histone acetylation or deacetylation is associated with chromatin remodeling and regulates gene expression. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors affect cell cycle progression as well as gene expression in a wide variety of transformed cells. We examined whether an HDAC inhibitor, TSA, can affect cell cycle progression and induce EBV lytic replication in EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs). TSA caused cell cycle arrest at low concentrations and induced apoptosis at higher (>300 nM) concentrations in the LCLs and EBV negative BJAB cells. To clarify the underlying mechanism of TSA-induced cell cycle arrest, expression of cell cycle regulatory factors was examined by RNase protection assay and Western blot analysis. Following TSA treatment, a reduced expression of cyclin D2 and an induction of p21 may have played an essential role for G1 arrest in LCLs, while p21 induction might have arrested BJAB cells in G1 phase. A Cdk inhibitor, p57, was increased by 300 nM TSA in both LCLs and BJAB cells, indicating its role in apoptosis. Moreover, immunofluorescene assay and Western blotting showed that TSA induced EBV lytic replication in LCL cells. These results suggest that TSA may exert an enhanced anti-tumor effect for EBV-associated tumors not only by inducing a cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, but also by triggering an EBV lytic cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Seo
- Research Institute of Immunobiology, Catholic University, Seoul 137-701, Japan
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Lee WK, Kao ST, Liu IM, Cheng JT. Ginsenoside Rh2 is one of the active principles of Panax ginseng root to improve insulin sensitivity in fructose-rich chow-fed rats. Horm Metab Res 2007; 39:347-54. [PMID: 17533576 DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-976537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Ginsenoside Rh2, one of the ginsenosides contained in the Panax ginseng root, was employed to screen the effect on insulin resistance of rats induced by a diet containing 60% fructose. Single intravenous injection of ginsenoside Rh2 decreased the plasma glucose concentrations in 60 minutes in a dose-dependent manner from 0.1 mg/kg to 1 mg/kg in rats with insulin resistance induced by fructose-rich chow. Repeated intravenous injection of ginsenoside Rh2 (1 mg/kg per injection, 3 times daily) into rats which received fructose-rich chow for 3 consecutive days decreased the value of glucose-insulin index, the product of the areas under the curve of glucose and insulin during the intraperitoneal (i.p.) glucose tolerance test. This means that ginsenoside Rh2 has an ability to improve insulin action on glucose disposal. The plasma glucose lowering action of tolbutamide, induced by the secretion of endogenous insulin, is widely used to characterize the formation of insulin resistance. Time for the loss of plasma glucose lowering response to tolbutamide (10 mg/kg, i.p.) in rats during insulin resistance induction by fructose-rich chow was also markedly delayed by the repeated treatment of ginsenoside Rh2, as compared to the vehicle-treated control. Thus, the repeated treatment of ginsenoside Rh2 delayed the development of insulin resistance in high fructose feeding rats. Increase of insulin sensitivity by ginsenoside Rh2 was further identified using the plasma glucose lowering action of exogenous insulin in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (STZ-diabetic rats). Repeated injection of ginsenoside Rh2 at the same dosing (1 mg/kg, 3 times daily) into STZ-diabetic rats for 10 days made an increase of the responses to exogenous insulin. Taken together, it can be concluded that ginsenoside Rh2 has an ability to improve insulin sensitivity and it seems suitable to use ginsenoside Rh2 as an adjuvant for diabetic patients and/or the subjects wishing to increase insulin sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- W-K Lee
- Graduate School of Chinese Traditional Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City, Taiwan, RO China
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Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the functional outcome of the hand following flexor tendon repair at 'no man's land' using 2 strands of a modified Kessler core suture and combined controlled motion rehabilitation protocol. METHODS Records of 31 zone-2 flexor tendon injuries in 21 digits of 16 patients between July 2000 and June 2005 were reviewed retrospectively. The injured tendons were repaired within 24 hours using 2 strands of a modified Kessler core suture, reinforced by a continuous circumferential epitendon suture. All patients completed a rehabilitation protocol that included active extension against a rubber band, passive flexion, and controlled passive extension and passive flexion exercises. Functional outcome of the fingers was assessed using the Buck-Gramcko II score. Hand grip strength, rehabilitation period, and rupture rate were also measured. RESULTS 17 (81%) out of 21 digits in 15 out of 16 patients achieved an excellent-to-good functional grade. The remaining patient with concomitant injuries to 4 (19%) digits attained a poor functional grade, attributable to poor compliance with the rehabilitation protocol. The mean rehabilitation period was 130 days and the mean grip strength was 78% that of the uninjured side. Concomitant digital nerve injury did not adversely affect the final outcome. Only one (4.8%) patient experienced a rupture. CONCLUSION The surgical method and rehabilitation protocol used for zone-2 flexor tendon injury is safe and results in a reasonably good functional outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- T K Chan
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, Hang Hau, Hong Kong.
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Abstract
This paper reviews the reasons why multi-slice CT scanners may give patients higher dose than their single-slice predecessors and discusses the type of optimization of multi-slice scan protocols that may be undertaken to keep patient doses to acceptable levels without compromising image quality. It also provides estimates of patient effective dose values and dose length products for typical procedures and briefly discusses the implication that these dose values have for the induction of possible stochastic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C P Heggie
- Department of Medical Engineering and Physics, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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