45 results on '"Quach B"'
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2. Đánh giá hoạt tính kháng oxy hóa và kháng viêm của cao chiết nấm linh chi (Ganderma lucidum) trồng trên cơ chất mùn cưa và bã mía
- Author
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Ngô Thị Cẩm Tú, Huỳnh Kim Yến, Quách Bích Trân, and Trần Phương Thảo
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Kháng oxy hóa, kháng viêm, linh chi, mùn cưa, bã mía ,Science - Abstract
Linh chi (Ganoderma lucidum) là một loài nấm dược liệu được sử dụng để tăng cường hệ miễn dịch do chứa nhiều hoạt chất sinh học. Nghiên cứu này nhằm mục đích đánh giá hoạt tính kháng oxy hóa và kháng viêm của cao chiết nấm linh chi (Ganoderma lucidum) trồng trên hai cơ chất mùn cưa và bã mía. Kết quả cho thấy cao chiết nấm linh chi trồng trên hai cơ chất đều thể hiện hoạt tính kháng oxy ở ba phương pháp thử nghiệm ABTS●+, DPPH và TAC. Trong đó, cao chiết nấm linh chi trồng trên cơ chất bã mía cho hoạt tính mạnh nhất với giá trị IC50 hoặc Abs0,5 lần lượt là 17,94 µg/mL, 935,84 µg/mL, 559,25 µg/mL. Cao chiết nấm linh chi trồng trên cơ chất bã mía (IC50 = 171,01 µg/mL) có tác dụng kháng viêm mạnh hơn cao chiết nấm linh chi trồng trên cơ chất mùn cưa (IC50 = 223,97 µg/mL). Những kết quả trên chỉ ra rằng nấm linh chi trồng trên cơ chất bã mía cho hàm lượng hoạt chất sinh học cao hơn trồng trên mùn cưa more...
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- 2024
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Catalog
3. Developing an Integrated Critical Care Curriculum Within the Third-Year Internal Medicine Clerkship
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Gergen, D.J., primary, Raines, J., additional, Quach, B., additional, Neumeier, A., additional, Lublin, B., additional, and King, C.J., additional
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- 2020
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4. VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE BORG RPE SCALE IN HONG KONG ADULTS
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Leung, R W., Leung, M L., Chung, P K., and Quach, B
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- 2003
5. HDAC inhibition impedes epithelial–mesenchymal plasticity and suppresses metastatic, castration-resistant prostate cancer
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Ruscetti, M, primary, Dadashian, E L, additional, Guo, W, additional, Quach, B, additional, Mulholland, D J, additional, Park, J W, additional, Tran, L M, additional, Kobayashi, N, additional, Bianchi-Frias, D, additional, Xing, Y, additional, Nelson, P S, additional, and Wu, H, additional more...
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- 2015
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6. A realistic irradiance-based voltage flicker analysis of PV applied to Hawaii distribution feeders.
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Stewart, E. M., Aukai, T. P., MacPherson, S. D. J., Quach, B. P., Nakafuji, D., and Davis, R.
- Abstract
Voltage Flicker caused by distributed generation is widely discussed during System Impact or Interconnection Studies. Misrepresentation of voltage flicker can often delay or create barriers to entry for renewable energy projects. The simplest voltage flicker analysis for photovoltaic (PV) generation is based on perceived instantaneous irradiance dips, of approximately 80 to 90%. These post-transient simulations often do not account for time variance and stability of other dynamic system components. Analysis is presented detailing an integrated inverter model and irradiance based analysis. Representative short time scale periods of 60 seconds are collected from multiple irradiance sensors to model different levels of cloud cover. Irradiance data feeds into a multiple inverter network with voltage changes calculated over the analysis time. Ongoing utility data collection at the distribution and sub-transmission levels can be used to validate performance and true flicker related impact of PV. The value and validity of using high fidelity, realistic time-based, irradiance data is presented versus assuming an instantaneous power drop. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER] more...
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- 2012
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7. A chaotic neural beamformer for wireless communications.
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Leung, H., Quach, B., Lo, T., and Litva, J.
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- 1995
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8. The effect of inspiratory muscle training on high-intensity, intermittent running performance to exhaustion.
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Tong TK, Fu FH, Chung PK, Eston R, Lu K, Quach B, Nie J, and So R
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- 2008
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9. Load assignment of Wingate test in minor overfat young adults -- is counting the fat mass a pitfall?
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Tong TK, Lu K, Chung PK, and Quach B
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It was wondered if the counting of fat mass (FM) in the workload of Wingate test (WAnT) of 75 g.kg[-1] total body mass (TBM) would invalidate the test on evaluating leg anaerobic power in minor overfat young adults. This study examined the hypothesis that the neglect of FM in the WAnT workload assignment would improve the peak power (PP), mean power (MP) and fatigue index (FI) in minor overfat subjects. In this study, we found in 16 male and female young adults with normal percent body fat (%BF) that the WAnT workloads of 86 g.kg[-1] and 95 g.kg[-1] fat free mass, respectively, could develop the PP, MP and FI equivalent to those obtained from the original workload of 75 g.kg[-1] TBM. When these new workloads were applied to 18 male and 15 female subjects with a little above-normal %BF, the PP and MP, but not the FI, were declined from the original values (p < 0.05). The declines were positively correlated to their %BF (p < 0.05). Such findings do not support our hypothesis. The findings show that the neglect of FM in the WAnT workload assignment lessens the maximum anaerobic power output of the minor overfat subjects. It further suggests that the counting of FM in the traditional WAnT workload of 75 g.kg[-1] TBM may not impair their maximum performance. However, the interpretation of lack of negative influence of FM on the WAnT performance in minor overfat young adults should be made with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...
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- 2008
10. Specific inspiratory muscle warm-up enhances badminton footwork performance.
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Lin H, Tong TK, Huang C, Nie J, Lu K, and Quach B
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- 2007
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11. A chaotic neural beamformer for wireless communications
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Leung, H., primary, Quach, B., additional, Lo, T., additional, and Litva, J., additional
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12. An Advanced Cardiac Life Support Application Improves Performance during Simulated Cardiac Arrest.
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Senter-Zapata M, Neel DV, Colocci I, Alblooshi A, AlRadini FAM, Quach B, Lyon S, Coll M, Chu A, Rainer KW, Waters B, Baugh CW, Dias RD, Zhang H, Eyre A, Isselbacher E, Conley J, and Carlile N
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- Humans, Mobile Applications, Male, Female, Heart Arrest therapy, Advanced Cardiac Life Support
- Abstract
Objectives: Variability in cardiopulmonary arrest training and management leads to inconsistent outcomes during in-hospital cardiac arrest. Existing clinical decision aids, such as American Heart Association (AHA) advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) pocket cards and third-party mobile apps, often lack comprehensive management guidance. We developed a novel, guided ACLS mobile app and evaluated user performance during simulated cardiac arrest according to the 2020 AHA ACLS guidelines via randomized controlled trial., Methods: Forty-six resident physicians were randomized to lead a simulated code team using the AHA pockets cards ( N = 22) or the guided app ( N = 24). The primary outcome was successful return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Secondary outcomes included code leader stress and confidence, AHA ACLS guideline adherence, and errors. A focus group of 22 residents provided feedback. Statistical analysis included two-sided t -tests and Fisher's exact tests., Results: App users showed significantly higher ROSC rate (50 vs. 18%; p = 0.024), correct thrombolytic administration (54 vs. 23%; p = 0.029), backboard use (96 vs. 27%; p < 0.001), end-tidal CO2 monitoring (58 vs. 27%; p = 0.033), and confidence compared with baseline (1.0 vs 0.3; p = 0.005) compared with controls. A focus group of 22 residents indicated unanimous willingness to use the app, with 82% preferring it over AHA pocket cards., Conclusion: Our guided ACLS app shows potential to improve user confidence and adherence to the AHA ACLS guidelines and may help to standardize in-hospital cardiac arrest management. Further validation studies are essential to confirm its efficacy in clinical practice., Competing Interests: J.C. and A.C. are co-creators of the AHA ACLS mobile app (iOS and Android) in collaboration with the American Heart Association., (Thieme. All rights reserved.) more...
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- 2024
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13. Associations of bisphenol A exposure with metabolic syndrome and its components: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
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Xiao T, Huang Z, Zheng C, Quach B, Zhu Y, Li F, Liang W, Baker J, Reichetzeder C, Hocher B, and Yang Y
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- Humans, Obesity, Abdominal epidemiology, Environmental Exposure adverse effects, Dyslipidemias chemically induced, Dyslipidemias epidemiology, Risk Factors, Benzhydryl Compounds adverse effects, Metabolic Syndrome chemically induced, Metabolic Syndrome epidemiology, Phenols adverse effects
- Abstract
Mounting evidence shows that bisphenol A (BPA) is associated with metabolic risk factors. The aim of this study was to review related epidemiologic studies and conduct a meta-analysis to quantitatively estimate the association between BPA and metabolic syndrome. Four electronic databases were systematically searched to identify suitable articles. A total of 47 published studies were finally included. Two studies involved metabolic syndrome. Of the 17, 17, 14, and 13 studies on the relationship between BPA with abdominal obesity, blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, and dyslipidemia, 10, 6, 3, and 4 studies were included in the meta-analysis, respectively. The results showed that the risk of abdominal obesity increased with the increase of BPA exposure, especially in the group with higher BPA exposure levels (Quartile 2 vs. Quartile 1, pooled OR = 1.16, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.33; Q
3 vs. Q1 , pooled OR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.13, 1.51; Q4 vs. Q1 , pooled OR = 1.40, 95%CI: 1.21, 1.61). However, there was no significant correlation between BPA exposure and metabolic syndrome components including hypertension, abnormal fasting plasma glucose, and dyslipidemia. The present study found that BPA exposure is significantly associated with a higher risk of abdominal obesity. However, the relationship between BPA with metabolic syndrome and its other components needs further longitudinal studies to verify., (© 2024 World Obesity Federation.) more...- Published
- 2024
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14. Complications of Injectables.
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Quach B and Clevens RA
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- Humans, Hyaluronic Acid, Esthetics, Dental, Injections, Subcutaneous, Neurotransmitter Agents, Rejuvenation, Dermal Fillers adverse effects, Cosmetic Techniques adverse effects
- Abstract
The field of non-surgical esthetic procedures has witnessed a significant surge in demand in recent years, with neuromodulators, skin treatments, and dermal fillers contributing significantly to the industry's growth. These procedures have become increasingly popular, reflecting the broader acceptance of esthetic enhancements in society. Neuromodulators play a pivotal role in facial rejuvenation, but they require precise knowledge of facial anatomy to optimize results and prevent complications. They include rare hypersensitivity reactions, local injection reactions, and brow and eyelid ptosis. Dermal fillers, both non-permanent and permanent, are widely used to restore volume and improve facial contours. However, they also carry risks, including bruising, temporary edema, and lumps. Permanent fillers present higher complication rates, and their use should be approached with caution. Vascular occlusion is a rare but severe complication associated with dermal fillers. To mitigate these risks, practitioners must have a comprehensive understanding of their compositions and potential complications. Overall, while non-surgical esthetic procedures offer remarkable results with minimal downtime, the importance of training, anatomic knowledge, and effective complication management cannot be overstated in ensuring patient safety and satisfaction in this evolving field of medicine., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...
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- 2024
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15. Trans-ancestry epigenome-wide association meta-analysis of DNA methylation with lifetime cannabis use.
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Fang F, Quach B, Lawrence KG, van Dongen J, Marks JA, Lundgren S, Lin M, Odintsova VV, Costeira R, Xu Z, Zhou L, Mandal M, Xia Y, Vink JM, Bierut LJ, Ollikainen M, Taylor JA, Bell JT, Kaprio J, Boomsma DI, Xu K, Sandler DP, Hancock DB, and Johnson EO more...
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- Adult, Female, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Cannabis genetics, Cigarette Smoking genetics, Epigenesis, Genetic genetics, Epigenomics methods, Marijuana Smoking genetics, Marijuana Use genetics, Black People, CpG Islands genetics, DNA Methylation genetics, Epigenome genetics, Genome-Wide Association Study methods, White People genetics
- Abstract
Cannabis is widely used worldwide, yet its links to health outcomes are not fully understood. DNA methylation can serve as a mediator to link environmental exposures to health outcomes. We conducted an epigenome-wide association study (EWAS) of peripheral blood-based DNA methylation and lifetime cannabis use (ever vs. never) in a meta-analysis including 9436 participants (7795 European and 1641 African ancestry) from seven cohorts. Accounting for effects of cigarette smoking, our trans-ancestry EWAS meta-analysis revealed four CpG sites significantly associated with lifetime cannabis use at a false discovery rate of 0.05 ( p < 5.85 × 10 - 7 ) : cg22572071 near gene ADGRF1, cg15280358 in ADAM12, cg00813162 in ACTN1, and cg01101459 near LINC01132. Additionally, our EWAS analysis in participants who never smoked cigarettes identified another epigenome-wide significant CpG site, cg14237301 annotated to APOBR. We used a leave-one-out approach to evaluate methylation scores constructed as a weighted sum of the significant CpGs. The best model can explain 3.79% of the variance in lifetime cannabis use. These findings unravel the DNA methylation changes associated with lifetime cannabis use that are independent of cigarette smoking and may serve as a starting point for further research on the mechanisms through which cannabis exposure impacts health outcomes., (© 2023. The Author(s).) more...
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- 2024
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16. A Unique Presentation of Familial Idiopathic Colonic Varices.
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Gallagher J, Quach B, Sempokuya T, and Sivaraman A
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Colonic varices typically occur in the setting of portal hypertension, and patients may present with rectal bleeding or occult anemia. Idiopathic colonic varices occur infrequently in the absence of cirrhosis and can involve the entire colon. We present a case of a 54-year-old Eastern European woman who had undergone diagnostic colonoscopy for newly diagnosed sigmoid adenocarcinoma and was incidentally found to have colonic varices with normal portal pressure gradients. Her 38-year-old daughter was found to have similar varices, raising concerns for hereditary etiology., (© 2023 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of The American College of Gastroenterology.) more...
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- 2023
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17. Adoption of Optimal Small (6-9 mm) Colorectal Polyp Resection Technique Over Time.
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Muething L, Quach B, Smith DE, Gao D, Smith JA, Simril RT 3rd, Tompkins A, Espinoza J, Cowan ML, Hammad H, Wani S, and Patel SG
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- Humans, Colonoscopy methods, Retrospective Studies, Surgical Instruments, Colonic Polyps surgery, Surgeons
- Abstract
Background: Cold snare polypectomy (CSP) is the preferred resection technique for small (6-9 mm) polyps due to lower rate of incomplete resection compared to cold forceps polypectomy (CFP) and improved safety profile over hot snare polypectomy (HSP)., Aims: To describe resection techniques for small (6-9 mm) polyps and determine factors associated with sub-optimal technique., Methods: This was retrospective cohort study of colonoscopies performed by gastroenterological and surgical endoscopists from 2012 to 2019 where at least one 6-9 mm polyp was removed. Patient, provider, and procedure characteristics were collected. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed to determine factors associated with sub-optimal technique., Results: In total, 773 colonoscopies where 1,360 6-9 mm polyps removed by 21 endoscopists were included. CSP was used for 1,122 (82.5%), CFP for 61 (4.5%), and HSP for 177 (13.0%). Surgeon specialty was associated with CFP use (aOR 7.81; 95% CI 3.02-20.16). Polyp location in left colon (aOR 1.65; 95% CI 1.17-2.33) and pedunculated morphology (aOR 12.76; 95% CI 7.24-22.50) were associated with HSP. There was a significant increase in overall CSP use from 30.4% in 2012 to 96.8% in 2019., Conclusions: 82.5% of all 6-9 mm polyps removed from 2012 to 2019 were removed using a cold snare with significant increase in CSP from 2012 to 2019. Differences in how optimal technique was adopted over time based on specialty highlight the need for standardized practice guidelines and quality monitoring., (© 2022. This is a U.S. government work and not under copyright protection in the U.S.; foreign copyright protection may apply.) more...
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- 2023
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18. Multi-trait genome-wide association study of opioid addiction: OPRM1 and beyond.
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Gaddis N, Mathur R, Marks J, Zhou L, Quach B, Waldrop A, Levran O, Agrawal A, Randesi M, Adelson M, Jeffries PW, Martin NG, Degenhardt L, Montgomery GW, Wetherill L, Lai D, Bucholz K, Foroud T, Porjesz B, Runarsdottir V, Tyrfingsson T, Einarsson G, Gudbjartsson DF, Webb BT, Crist RC, Kranzler HR, Sherva R, Zhou H, Hulse G, Wildenauer D, Kelty E, Attia J, Holliday EG, McEvoy M, Scott RJ, Schwab SG, Maher BS, Gruza R, Kreek MJ, Nelson EC, Thorgeirsson T, Stefansson K, Berrettini WH, Gelernter J, Edenberg HJ, Bierut L, Hancock DB, and Johnson EO more...
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- Furin genetics, Genetic Predisposition to Disease, Humans, Phenotype, Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide, Receptors, Opioid, mu genetics, Genome-Wide Association Study, Opioid-Related Disorders genetics
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Opioid addiction (OA) is moderately heritable, yet only rs1799971, the A118G variant in OPRM1, has been identified as a genome-wide significant association with OA and independently replicated. We applied genomic structural equation modeling to conduct a GWAS of the new Genetics of Opioid Addiction Consortium (GENOA) data together with published studies (Psychiatric Genomics Consortium, Million Veteran Program, and Partners Health), comprising 23,367 cases and effective sample size of 88,114 individuals of European ancestry. Genetic correlations among the various OA phenotypes were uniformly high (r
g > 0.9). We observed the strongest evidence to date for OPRM1: lead SNP rs9478500 (p = 2.56 × 10-9 ). Gene-based analyses identified novel genome-wide significant associations with PPP6C and FURIN. Variants within these loci appear to be pleiotropic for addiction and related traits., (© 2022. The Author(s).) more...- Published
- 2022
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19. The Evolution of Effort-Reward Imbalance in Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in France-An Observational Study in More than 8000 Workers.
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Delamarre L, Tannous S, Lakbar I, Couarraze S, Pereira B, Leone M, Marhar F, Baker JS, Bagheri R, Berton M, Rabbouch H, Zak M, Sikorski T, Wasik M, Nasir H, Quach B, Jiao J, Aviles R, Covistress Network, Clinchamps M, and Dutheil F more...
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- Communicable Disease Control, Cross-Sectional Studies, France epidemiology, Humans, Job Satisfaction, Prospective Studies, Reward, Stress, Psychological epidemiology, Surveys and Questionnaires, Workload, COVID-19 epidemiology, Pandemics
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(1) Background: The effects of lockdown repetition on work-related stress, expressed through Effort-Reward Imbalance (ERI), during the COVID-19 pandemic are poorly documented. We investigated the effect of repetitive lockdowns on the ERI in French workers, its difference across occupations, and the change in its influencing factors across time. (2) Methods: Participants were included in a prospective cross-sectional observational study from 30 March 2020 to 28 May 2021. The primary outcome was the ERI score (visual analog scale). The ERI score of the population was examined via Generalized Estimating Equations. For each period, the factors influencing ERI were studied by multivariate linear regression. (3) Results: In 8121 participants, the ERI score decreased in the first 2 lockdowns (53.2 ± 0.3, p < 0.001; 50.5 ± 0.7, p < 0.001) and after lockdown 2 (54.8 ± 0.8, p = 0.004) compared with the pre-pandemic period (59 ± 0.4). ERI was higher in medical than in paramedical professionals in the pre-pandemic and the first 2 lockdowns. Higher workloads were associated with better ERI scores. (4) Conclusions: In a large French sample, Effort-Reward Imbalance worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic until the end of the 2nd lockdown. Paramedical professionals experienced a higher burden of stress compared with medical professionals. more...
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- 2022
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20. The hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype is associated with fatty liver and glycometabolic profiles in overweight and obese adults: a cross-sectional study.
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Zhou M, Li F, Tang H, Wu S, Meng L, Dong Y, Wang F, Quach B, Yang Y, Ma J, and Baker JS
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- Adult, Blood Glucose metabolism, Blood Pressure, Body Mass Index, China, Cholesterol, HDL blood, Cross-Sectional Studies, Fatty Liver metabolism, Female, Glycated Hemoglobin metabolism, Humans, Hypertriglyceridemic Waist, Insulin blood, Insulin Resistance, Male, Middle Aged, Obesity metabolism, Obesity physiopathology, Overweight metabolism, Overweight physiopathology, Phenotype, Risk Factors, Waist Circumference, Young Adult, Fatty Liver etiology, Obesity complications, Overweight complications, Triglycerides blood
- Abstract
The present study aimed to distinguish different hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotypes and relevant risks of developing fatty liver and abnormal glycometabolic profiles in overweight/obese adults. A total of 1221 Chinese adults with mean (standard deviation [SD]) age of 37 (9) years, 37.3% males and 62.7% females, body mass index (BMI) of 29.0 (4.0) kg/m
2 , triglyceride (TG) 2.04 (1.45) mmol/L, and waist circumference (WC) 95.8 (10.7) cm were included and classified into four phenotypes: normal TG & normal WC (N-N); normal TG & high WC (N-WC); high TG & normal WC (TG-N); high TG & high WC (TG-WC). Participants in TG-WC group had the highest BMI, WC, blood pressure (BP), insulin, Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), and fatty liver. Participants within N-WC group had a significantly higher risk of fatty liver (adjusted OR 3.50 [95% CI 2.05-5.97]), as well as TG-N (adjusted OR 2.59 [95% CI 1.61-4.16]) and TG-WC (adjusted OR 4.12 [95% CI 2.28-7.46]). The risk of elevated HOMA-IR was significantly higher in TG-N (adjusted OR 2.16 [95% CI 1.33-3.50]) and TG-WC (adjusted OR 2.04 [95% CI 1.22-3.40]). The risk of elevated HbA1c was significantly higher in the TG-WC (adjusted OR 2.79 [95% CI 1.47-5.31]). Hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype can be a potential and cost-effective method to identify individuals with a high risk of fatty liver and glycometabolic disorders., (© 2022. The Author(s).) more...- Published
- 2022
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21. Changes in Cannabis Consumption During the Global COVID-19 Lockdown: The International COVISTRESS Study.
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Salles J, Yrondi A, Marhar F, Andant N, Dorlhiac RA, Quach B, Jiao J, Antunes S, Ugbolue UC, Guegan J, Rouffiac K, Pereira B, Clinchamps M, and Dutheil F
- Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 lockdown measures have been sources of both potential stress and possible psychological and addiction complications. A lack of activity and isolation during lockdown are among the factors thought to be behind the growth in the use of psychoactive substances and worsening addictive behaviors. Previous studies on the pandemic have attested to an increase in alcohol consumption during lockdowns. Likewise, data suggest there has also been a rise in the use of cannabis, although it is unclear how this is affected by external factors. Our study used quantitative data collected from an international population to evaluate changes in cannabis consumption during the lockdown period between March and October, 2020. We also compared users and non-users of the drug in relation to: (1) socio-demographic differences, (2) emotional experiences, and (3) the information available and the degree of approval of lockdown measures. Methods: An online self-report questionnaire concerning the lockdown was widely disseminated around the globe. Data was collected on sociodemographics and how the rules imposed had influenced the use of cannabis and concerns about health, the economic impact of the measures and the approach taken by government(s). Results: One hundred eighty two respondents consumed cannabis before the lockdown vs. 199 thereafter. The mean cannabis consumption fell from 13 joints per week pre-lockdown to 9.75 after it ( p < 0.001). Forty-nine respondents stopped using cannabis at all and 66 admitted to starting to do so. The cannabis users were: less satisfied with government measures; less worried about their health; more concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on the economy and their career; and more frightened of becoming infected in public areas. The risk factors for cannabis use were: age (OR = 0.96); concern for physical health (OR = 0.98); tobacco (OR = 1.1) and alcohol consumption during lockdown (OR = 1.1); the pre-lockdown anger level (OR = 1.01); and feelings of boredom during the restrictions (OR = 1.1). Conclusion: In a specific sub-population, the COVID-19 lockdown brought about either an end to the consumption of cannabis or new use of the drug. The main risk factors for cannabis use were: a lower age, co-addictions and high levels of emotions., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Salles, Yrondi, Marhar, Andant, Dorlhiac, Quach, Jiao, Antunes, Ugbolue, Guegan, Rouffiac, Pereira, The COVISTRESS Network, Clinchamps and Dutheil.) more...
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- 2021
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22. Association Between Eating Speed and Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
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Yuan SQ, Liu YM, Liang W, Li FF, Zeng Y, Liu YY, Huang SZ, He QY, Quach B, Jiao J, Baker JS, and Yang YD
- Abstract
Objective: This review aimed to systematically summarize and meta-analyze the association between eating speed and metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews, and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, four electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and EMBASE) were searched until March 2021 to identify eligible articles based on a series of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Heterogeneity was examined using I
2 statistics. Using random-effects models, the pooled odds ratios (ORs), and 95% CIs were calculated to evaluate the association between eating speed with MetS and its components, including central obesity, blood pressure (BP), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), triglyceride (TG), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). Results: Of the 8,500 original hits generated by the systematic search, 29 eligible studies with moderate-to-high quality were included, involving 465,155 subjects. The meta-analysis revealed that eating faster was significantly associated with higher risks of MetS (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.27-1.86), central obesity (OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.37-1.73), elevated BP (OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.13-1.40), low HDL (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.15-1.31), elevated TG (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.18-1.42), and elevated FPG (OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.06-1.27) compared to eating slowly. Conclusions: The results of the review indicated that eating speed was significantly associated with MetS and its components. Interventions related to decreasing eating speed may be beneficial for the management of MetS. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021242213, identifier: CRD42021242213., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Yuan, Liu, Liang, Li, Zeng, Liu, Huang, He, Quach, Jiao, Baker and Yang.) more...- Published
- 2021
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23. The major worldwide stress of healthcare professionals during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic - the international COVISTRESS survey.
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Couarraze S, Delamarre L, Marhar F, Quach B, Jiao J, Avilés Dorlhiac R, Saadaoui F, Liu AS, Dubuis B, Antunes S, Andant N, Pereira B, Ugbolue UC, Baker JS, Clinchamps M, and Dutheil F
- Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has initiated an upheaval in society and has been the cause of considerable stress during this period. Healthcare professionals have been on the front line during this health crisis, particularly paramedical staff. The aim of this study was to assess the high level of stress of healthcare workers during the first wave of the pandemic., Materials and Methods: The COVISTRESS international study is a questionnaire disseminated online collecting demographic and stress-related data over the globe, during the pandemic. Stress levels were evaluated using non-calibrated visual analog scale, from 0 (no stress) to 100 (maximal stress)., Results: Among the 13,537 individuals from 44 countries who completed the survey from January to June 2020, we included 10,051 workers (including 1379 healthcare workers, 631 medical doctors and 748 paramedical staff). The stress levels during the first wave of the pandemic were 57.8 ± 33 in the whole cohort, 65.3 ± 29.1 in medical doctors, and 73.6 ± 27.7 in paramedical staff. Healthcare professionals and especially paramedical staff had the highest levels of stress (p < 0.001 vs non-healthcare workers). Across all occupational categories, women had systematically significantly higher levels of work-related stress than men (p < 0.001). There was a negative correlation between age and stress level (r = -0.098, p < 0.001). Healthcare professionals demonstrated an increased risk of very-high stress levels (>80) compared to other workers (OR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.87-2.41). Paramedical staff risk for very-high levels of stress was higher than doctors' (1.88, 1.50-2.34). The risk of high levels of stress also increased in women (1.83, 1.61-2.09; p < 0.001 vs. men) and in people aged <50 (1.45, 1.26-1.66; p < 0.001 vs. aged >50)., Conclusions: The first wave of the pandemic was a major stressful event for healthcare workers, especially paramedical staff. Among individuals, women were the most at risk while age was a protective factor., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist. more...
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- 2021
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24. Operationalizing Burdensome Transitions Among Adults at the End of Life: A Scoping Review.
- Author
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Hanna N, Quach B, Scott M, Qureshi D, Tanuseputro P, and Webber C
- Subjects
- Adult, Death, Humans, Patient Transfer, Systematic Reviews as Topic, Quality of Life, Terminal Care
- Abstract
Context: Care transitions at the end of life are associated with reduced quality of life and negative health outcomes, yet up to half of patients in developed countries experience a transition within the last month of life. A variety of these transitions have been described as "burdensome" in the literature; however, there is currently no consensus on the definition of a burdensome transition., Objectives: The purpose of this review was to identify current definitions of "burdensome transitions" and develop a framework for classifying transitions as "burdensome" at the end of life., Methods: A search was conducted in databases including Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, CINAHL, and PsychINFO for articles published in English between January 1, 2000 and September 28, 2019., Results: A total of 37 articles met inclusion criteria for this scoping review. Definitions of burdensome transitions were characterized by the following features: transition setting trajectory, number of transitions, temporal relationship to end of life, or quality of transitions., Conclusion: Definitions of burdensome transitions varied based on time before death, setting of cohorts, and study population. These definitions can be helpful in identifying and subsequently preventing unnecessary transitions at the end of life., (Copyright © 2020 American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...
- Published
- 2021
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25. COVID-19 Rehabilitation With Herbal Medicine and Cardiorespiratory Exercise: Protocol for a Clinical Study.
- Author
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Gao Y, Zhong LLD, Quach B, Davies B, Ash GI, Lin ZX, Feng Y, Lau BWM, Wagner PD, Yang X, Guo Y, Jia W, Bian Z, and Baker JS
- Abstract
Background: Recent studies have revealed that many discharged patients with COVID-19 experience ongoing symptoms months later. Rehabilitation interventions can help address the consequences of COVID-19, including medical, physical, cognitive, and psychological problems. To our knowledge, no studies have investigated the effects of rehabilitation following discharge from hospital for patients with COVID-19., Objective: The specific aims of this project are to investigate the effects of a 12-week exercise program on pulmonary fibrosis in patients recovering from COVID-19. A further aim will be to examine how Chinese herbal medicines as well as the gut microbiome and its metabolites regulate immune function and possibly autoimmune deficiency in the rehabilitation process., Methods: In this triple-blinded, randomized, parallel-group, controlled clinical trial, we will recruit adult patients with COVID-19 who have been discharged from hospital in Hong Kong and are experiencing impaired lung function and pulmonary function. A total of 172 eligible patients will be randomized into four equal groups: (1) cardiorespiratory exercise plus Chinese herbal medicines group, (2) cardiorespiratory exercise only group, (3) Chinese herbal medicines only group, and (4) waiting list group (in which participants will receive Chinese herbal medicines after 24 weeks). These treatments will be administered for 12 weeks, with a 12-week follow-up period. Primary outcomes include dyspnea, fatigue, lung function, pulmonary function, blood oxygen levels, immune function, blood coagulation, and related blood biochemistry. Measurements will be recorded prior to initiating the above treatments and repeated at the 13th and 25th weeks of the study. The primary analysis is aimed at comparing the outcomes between groups throughout the study period with an α level of .05 (two-tailed)., Results: The trial has been approved by the university ethics committee following the Declaration of Helsinki (approval number: REC/19-20/0504) in 2020. The trial has been recruiting patients. The data collection will be completed in 24 months, from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022., Conclusions: Given that COVID-19 and its sequelae would persist in human populations, important findings from this study would provide valuable insights into the mechanisms and processes of COVID-19 rehabilitation., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04572360; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04572360., International Registered Report Identifier (irrid): PRR1-10.2196/25556., (©Yang Gao, Linda L D Zhong, Binh Quach, Bruce Davies, Garrett I Ash, Zhi-Xiu Lin, Yibin Feng, Benson W M Lau, Peter D Wagner, Xian Yang, Yike Guo, Wei Jia, Zhaoxiang Bian, Julien S Baker. Originally published in JMIR Research Protocols (https://www.researchprotocols.org), 26.05.2021.) more...
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- 2021
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26. Kinetics, Moderators and Reference Limits of Exercise-Induced Elevation of Cardiac Troponin T in Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
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Li F, Hopkins WG, Wang X, Baker JS, Nie J, Qiu J, Quach B, Wang K, and Yi L
- Abstract
Background: Kinetics, moderators and reference limits for exercise-induced cardiac troponin T (cTnT) elevations are still unclear. Methods: A systematic review of published literature was conducted adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies reporting high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) concentrations before and after a bout of exercise in athletes were included and analyzed. The final dataset consisted of 62 estimates from 16 bouts in 13 studies of 5-1,002 athletes (1,421 in total). Meta-analysis was performed using general linear mixed modeling and Bayesian inferences about effect magnitudes. Modifying fixed-effect moderators of gender, age, baseline level, exercise duration, intensity and modalities were investigated. Simulation was used to derive 99th percentile with 95% limits of upper reference ranges for hs-cTnT of athletic populations. Results: The mean and upper reference limits of hs-cTnT before exercise were 4.4 and 19 ng.L
-1 . Clear increases in hs-cTnT ranging from large to very large (factor changes of 2.1-7.5, 90% compatibility limits, ×/÷1.3) were evident from 0.7 through 25 h, peaking at 2.9 h after the midpoint of a 2.5-h bout of running, when the mean and upper reference limit for hs-cTnT were 33 and 390 ng L-1 . A four-fold increase in exercise duration produced a large clear increase (2.4, ×/÷1.7) in post-exercise hs-cTnT. Rowing exercise demonstrated an extremely large clear reduction (0.1 ×/÷2.4). Conclusions: The kinetics of cTnT elevation following exercise, the positive effect of exercise duration, the impact of exercise modality and 99th upper reference limits for athletic populations were reasonably well defined by this meta-analysis., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Li, Hopkins, Wang, Baker, Nie, Qiu, Quach, Wang and Yi.) more...- Published
- 2021
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27. Effects of descending or ascending stair exercise on body composition, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers in young Chinese women with obesity: A randomized controlled trial.
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Chow BC, Li S, Zhu X, Jiao J, Quach B, Baker JS, and Zhang H
- Subjects
- Biomarkers blood, China, Female, Humans, Young Adult, Body Composition physiology, Insulin Resistance physiology, Interleukin-6 blood, Obesity therapy, Stair Climbing physiology, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha blood
- Abstract
We examined the effects of descending (DSE) or ascending (ASE) stair exercise on body composition, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers in young Chinese women with obesity. Thirty-six participants were randomly assigned into three groups DSE, ASE and a control group. The DSE and ASE groups performed three sessions of stair walking per week for 12 weeks with a gradual increase in repetitions. Following the exercise interventions, body composition related variables obtained by Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans significantly decreased. Abdominal fat decreased in the DSE group only. Moreover, Insulin sensitivity improved significantly 3.5-fold in the DSE group compared with ASE group (insulin: -33.2% vs. -9.8%, homoeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance: -35.6% vs. -10.8%). Pro-inflammatory factors showed significant decreases in tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) (-39.9% vs. -23.2%) for both intervention groups. The reduction in TNF-α concentrations in the DSE group was significantly different compared to the other two groups. Interleukin-6 significantly decreased in both exercise protocols. Our results show that 12-weeks induced stair walking improved body composition parameters in Chinese females with obesity. The results also demonstrate the superiority of the DSE protocol for improving insulin sensitivity. These findings may be attributable to the decreases observed in TNF- α levels. more...
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- 2021
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28. Integrated Critical Care Curriculum for the Third-Year Internal Medicine Clerkship.
- Author
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Gergen D, Raines J, Lublin B, Neumeier A, Quach B, and King C
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- Critical Care, Curriculum, Humans, Internal Medicine education, Clinical Clerkship, Students, Medical
- Abstract
Introduction: A majority of residents provide care for critically ill patients, yet only a minority of medical schools require ICU rotations. Therefore, many medical students enter residency without prior ICU experience. The third-year internal medicine (IM) clerkship at our institution's Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) provided an opportunity for medical students to rotate through an open ICU as part of their inpatient ward rotation. Prior to March 2019, no structured critical care curriculum existed within the IM clerkship to prepare students for this experience., Methods: We created a seven-session ICU curriculum integrated within the VAMC IM clerkship addressing core critical care topics and skills including bedside presentations, shock, and respiratory failure. IM residents facilitated the curriculum's case-based, small-group discussions. We assessed curricular efficacy and impact with a pre- and posttest and end-of-curriculum survey., Results: Forty-one students participated in the curriculum from March to November 2019. As a result, students agreed that their overall clerkship experience improved (73% strongly agree , 24% agree ). Students also reported increased comfort in their ability to participate in the management of critically ill patients (44% strongly agree , 51% agree ). Objectively, student performance on a 15-question pre- and posttest improved from a precurricular average of 7.5 (50%) questions correct to a postcurricular average of 10.7 (71%) questions correct ( p <.0001; CI 2.2-4.4)., Discussion: Following implementation of our ICU curriculum, medical student attitudes regarding overall IM clerkship experience, self-perceived confidence in critically ill patient management, and medical knowledge all improved., (© 2020 Gergen et al.) more...
- Published
- 2020
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29. Beyond Words: Understanding Grit in Survivors of Stroke and Caregivers.
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Klappa SG, Quach B, Steele J, and Harper C
- Abstract
Grit is defined as perseverance and long-term focus on goals. Grit may be helpful in surviving stroke for both survivors and caregivers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of grit among survivors of stroke and caregivers using health humanities to gain a deeper understanding of the lived experience of stroke survivors. A sample of convenience was used. Phase I (n = 22) utilized the Grit Scale survey. Phase II (n = 6) utilized phenomenological interviews. The Grit Scale survey data were analyzed with SPSS 25. Qualitative data were analyzed with the whole-parts-whole method of Giorgi, Dahlberg, Drew, and Nyström. Grit scores were high for both survivors of stroke (3.77 ± 0.50) and caregivers (3.89 ± 0.51). Themes emerging from the phenomenological interviews included: (a) gritty toughness, (b) challenges, (3) accomplishments, and (4) advice for health-care providers. Survivors of stroke and caregivers embodied high grit levels. Participants articulated the importance of long-term goals despite challenges. Understanding grit among survivors and caregivers may help clinicians develop best practices to better support these individuals., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2020.) more...
- Published
- 2020
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30. Septic Shock After Travel to Rural Africa.
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Quach B, Han S, and Attwell A
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- Africa, Albendazole therapeutic use, Amoxicillin-Potassium Clavulanate Combination therapeutic use, Animals, Anthelmintics therapeutic use, Cholangiopancreatography, Endoscopic Retrograde, Cholangitis parasitology, Cholangitis surgery, Common Bile Duct diagnostic imaging, Common Bile Duct parasitology, Common Bile Duct surgery, Decompression, Surgical, Drainage, Female, Humans, Klebsiella pneumoniae isolation & purification, Liver diagnostic imaging, Liver parasitology, Liver surgery, Liver Abscess parasitology, Liver Abscess therapy, Liver Diseases, Parasitic parasitology, Liver Diseases, Parasitic therapy, Middle Aged, Shock, Septic microbiology, Shock, Septic therapy, Travel-Related Illness, Treatment Outcome, Ascaris lumbricoides isolation & purification, Cholangitis diagnosis, Liver Abscess diagnosis, Liver Diseases, Parasitic diagnosis, Shock, Septic diagnosis
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- 2020
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31. Further understanding of the Senior Fitness Test: Evidence from community-dwelling high function older adults in Hong Kong.
- Author
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Liu JD, Quach B, and Chung PK
- Subjects
- Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Female, Hong Kong, Humans, Male, Geriatric Assessment, Independent Living, Physical Fitness
- Abstract
Objectives: This study examined the factor structure of the Senior Fitness Test and examined its measurement and structural invariance across participants with normal body weight and participants who were overweight., Methods: Eight hundred and forty-five community-dwelling older adults in Hong Kong participated in this study. Their functional fitness was assessed using the Senior Fitness Test. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to examine and compare two competing models: a one-factor model and a second-order model. Multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to evaluate the measurement and structural invariance of the SFT measurement model. Multiple fit indices were used to evaluate the adequacy of the model fit to the data., Results: The second-order model outperformed the one-factor model. For men participants, the second-order 4-factor model was indicated, while for women participants, the second-order 5-factor model was evidenced. The measurement and structural invariance of the SFT measurement model across normal weight and overweight participants were also supported., Conclusion: This study provided initial evidence for the construct validity of the SFT. However, there were some differences in the factor structure of the SFT for men and women participants. Body composition did not necessarily reflect the functional fitness of men participants. All of the older adults responded to the testing items in a similar way regardless of body weight status in both men and women samples. The significance of each component for functional fitness was also similar for participants with different body weight statuses., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.) more...
- Published
- 2019
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32. Light-Activated Dynamic Clamp Using iPSC-Derived Cardiomyocytes.
- Author
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Quach B, Krogh-Madsen T, Entcheva E, and Christini DJ
- Subjects
- Cell Differentiation, Cells, Cultured, Humans, Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells cytology, Light, Myocytes, Cardiac cytology, Archaeal Proteins metabolism, Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells physiology, Myocytes, Cardiac physiology, Optogenetics, Patch-Clamp Techniques methods
- Abstract
iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) are a potentially advantageous platform for drug screening because they provide a renewable source of human cardiomyocytes. One obstacle to their implementation is their immature electrophysiology, which reduces relevance to adult arrhythmogenesis. To address this, dynamic clamp is used to inject current representing the insufficient potassium current, I
K1 , thereby producing more adult-like electrophysiology. However, dynamic clamp requires patch clamp and is therefore low throughput and ill-suited for large-scale drug screening. Here, we use optogenetics to generate such a dynamic-clamp current. The optical dynamic clamp (ODC) uses outward-current-generating opsin, ArchT, to mimic IK1 , resulting in more adult-like action potential morphology, similar to IK1 injection via classic dynamic clamp. Furthermore, in the presence of an IKr blocker, ODC revealed expected action potential prolongation and reduced spontaneous excitation. The ODC presented here still requires an electrode to measure Vm but provides a first step toward contactless dynamic clamp, which will not only enable high-throughput screening but may also allow control within multicellular iPSC-CM formats to better recapitulate adult in vivo physiology., (Copyright © 2018 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.) more...- Published
- 2018
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33. Correcting nucleotide-specific biases in high-throughput sequencing data.
- Author
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Wang JR, Quach B, and Furey TS
- Subjects
- Base Sequence, Bias, Binding Sites, Computational Biology, DNA metabolism, Deoxyribonucleases metabolism, Principal Component Analysis, Protein Binding, Sequence Analysis, DNA, High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing methods, Nucleotides genetics
- Abstract
Background: High-throughput sequence (HTS) data exhibit position-specific nucleotide biases that obscure the intended signal and reduce the effectiveness of these data for downstream analyses. These biases are particularly evident in HTS assays for identifying regulatory regions in DNA (DNase-seq, ChIP-seq, FAIRE-seq, ATAC-seq). Biases may result from many experiment-specific factors, including selectivity of DNA restriction enzymes and fragmentation method, as well as sequencing technology-specific factors, such as choice of adapters/primers and sample amplification methods., Results: We present a novel method to detect and correct position-specific nucleotide biases in HTS short read data. Our method calculates read-specific weights based on aligned reads to correct the over- or underrepresentation of position-specific nucleotide subsequences, both within and adjacent to the aligned read, relative to a baseline calculated in assay-specific enriched regions. Using HTS data from a variety of ChIP-seq, DNase-seq, FAIRE-seq, and ATAC-seq experiments, we show that our weight-adjusted reads reduce the position-specific nucleotide imbalance across reads and improve the utility of these data for downstream analyses, including identification and characterization of open chromatin peaks and transcription-factor binding sites., Conclusions: A general-purpose method to characterize and correct position-specific nucleotide sequence biases fills the need to recognize and deal with, in a systematic manner, binding-site preference for the growing number of HTS-based epigenetic assays. As the breadth and impact of these biases are better understood, the availability of a standard toolkit to correct them will be important. more...
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- 2017
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34. DeFCoM: analysis and modeling of transcription factor binding sites using a motif-centric genomic footprinter.
- Author
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Quach B and Furey TS
- Subjects
- Area Under Curve, Base Sequence, Binding Sites genetics, Deoxyribonuclease I metabolism, Humans, K562 Cells, Protein Binding genetics, Sequence Analysis, DNA methods, DNA Footprinting methods, Genomics methods, Models, Molecular, Nucleotide Motifs genetics, Software, Transcription Factors metabolism
- Abstract
Motivation: Identifying the locations of transcription factor binding sites is critical for understanding how gene transcription is regulated across different cell types and conditions. Chromatin accessibility experiments such as DNaseI sequencing (DNase-seq) and Assay for Transposase Accessible Chromatin sequencing (ATAC-seq) produce genome-wide data that include distinct 'footprint' patterns at binding sites. Nearly all existing computational methods to detect footprints from these data assume that footprint signals are highly homogeneous across footprint sites. Additionally, a comprehensive and systematic comparison of footprinting methods for specifically identifying which motif sites for a specific factor are bound has not been performed., Results: Using DNase-seq data from the ENCODE project, we show that a large degree of previously uncharacterized site-to-site variability exists in footprint signal across motif sites for a transcription factor. To model this heterogeneity in the data, we introduce a novel, supervised learning footprinter called Detecting Footprints Containing Motifs (DeFCoM). We compare DeFCoM to nine existing methods using evaluation sets from four human cell-lines and eighteen transcription factors and show that DeFCoM outperforms current methods in determining bound and unbound motif sites. We also analyze the impact of several biological and technical factors on the quality of footprint predictions to highlight important considerations when conducting footprint analyses and assessing the performance of footprint prediction methods. Finally, we show that DeFCoM can detect footprints using ATAC-seq data with similar accuracy as when using DNase-seq data., Availability and Implementation: Python code available at https://bitbucket.org/bryancquach/defcom., Contact: bquach@email.unc.edu or tsfurey@email.unc.edu., Supplementary Information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online., (© The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com) more...
- Published
- 2017
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35. A canonical correlation analysis on the relationship between functional fitness and health-related quality of life in older adults.
- Author
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Chung PK, Zhao Y, Liu JD, and Quach B
- Subjects
- Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Cross-Sectional Studies, Exercise Test, Female, Health Surveys, Humans, Male, Muscle Strength, Physical Endurance, Postural Balance, Physical Fitness, Quality of Life
- Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between the functional fitness (FF) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults, and to identify the key subdimensions of FF and HRQoL influencing their overall relationship., Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed among 851 independent community members (65-84 years; men=402). The Senior Fitness Test and the Short Form 36 Health Survey were used to measure FF and HRQoL, respectively. A canonical correlation analysis was conducted using seven fitness variables as predictors of eight HRQoL variables to examine the relationship between FF and HRQoL., Results: The overall FF was positively correlated with the overall HRQoL in both men (canonical correlation=0.350) and women (canonical correlation=0.456). The up-and-go and 2-min step contributed the most to FF, and physical functioning contributed the most to HRQOL among men. Conversely, the up-and-go and 30-s chair stand contributed the most to FF, and physical functioning contributed the most to HRQoL in women., Conclusions: There were positive and moderate relationships between overall FF and overall HRQOL in older adults. The FF has a significant influence on HRQoL, particularly physical functioning. The main FF components influencing the relationship between FF and HRQoL in men are balance and agility and aerobic endurance, whereas in women they are balance and agility and lower extremity muscle strength. Results from this study facilitate comprehensively understanding the relationship between FF and HRQoL, and generating critical insight into HRQoL improvement from the perspective of FF enhancement., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.) more...
- Published
- 2017
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36. Associations among cardiorespiratory endurance, body mass index and blood pressure in Han Chinese children: results from the 2010 Chinese National Survey On Students' Constitution and Health.
- Author
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Yang Y, Lau PW, Wang J, Dong B, Wu L, Quach B, Wong DP, Fu L, Ma J, and Wang H
- Subjects
- Adolescent, Body Mass Index, Child, China, Female, Health Surveys, Humans, Male, Overweight physiopathology, Sex Factors, Socioeconomic Factors, Blood Pressure physiology, Cardiorespiratory Fitness physiology, Physical Endurance physiology
- Abstract
The associations among cardiorespiratory endurance (CRE), body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure (BP) in children are still unclear. This study aimed to examine the relationships among CRE, BMI and BP in Chinese children. Data were derived from the 2010 Chinese National Survey on Students' Constitution and Health. An endurance run test was used to determine CRE and children were stratified into low and high/moderate CRE groups. BMI was dichotomized into non-overweight and overweight. Among overweight children aged 7-12 years, the risk of high BP (HBP) was significantly higher in the low CRE group than in the high/moderate CRE group (in boys, odds ratio=1.13, 95% confidence interval: 1.03-1.24, P=0.010; in girls, odds ratio=1.18, 95% confidence interval: 1.04-1.33, P=0.010) after adjusting for age, BMI, socioeconomic status and area of residence. However, among all children aged 13-18 years and non-overweight children aged 7-12 years, we did not observe similar results. Higher CRE is associated with lower BP. Overweight children have a significantly higher risk of HBP and low CRE may increase the risk of HBP, independently of BMI, among 7- to 12-year-old overweight children. more...
- Published
- 2016
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37. Matrix stiffness exerts biphasic control over monocyte-endothelial adhesion via Rho-mediated ICAM-1 clustering.
- Author
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Scott HA, Quach B, Yang X, Ardekani S, Cabrera AP, Wilson R, Messaoudi-Powers I, and Ghosh K
- Subjects
- Acrylic Resins chemistry, Actinin metabolism, Cell Adhesion, Cluster Analysis, Coculture Techniques, Cytoskeleton metabolism, Endothelial Cells metabolism, Endothelium, Vascular cytology, Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells, Humans, Inflammation, Leukocytes cytology, Mechanotransduction, Cellular, Microcirculation, Pressure, Signal Transduction, U937 Cells, Endothelial Cells cytology, Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 metabolism, Monocytes cytology, rho-Associated Kinases metabolism
- Abstract
Leukocyte-endothelial adhesion is a critical early step in chronic vascular inflammation associated with diabetes, emphysema, and aging. Importantly, these conditions are also marked by abnormal subendothelial matrix crosslinking (stiffness). Yet, whether and how abnormal matrix stiffness contributes to leukocyte-endothelial adhesion remains poorly understood. Using a co-culture of human monocytic cells and human microvascular endothelial cells (ECs) grown on matrices of tunable stiffness, we demonstrate that matrix stiffness exerts biphasic control over monocyte-EC adhesion, with both matrix softening and stiffening eliciting a two-fold increase in this adhesive interaction. This preferential endothelial adhesivity on softer and stiffer matrices was consistent with a significant increase in α-actinin-4-associated endothelial ICAM-1 clustering, a key determinant of monocyte-EC adhesion. Further, the enhanced ICAM-1 clustering on soft and stiff matrices correlated strongly with an increase in Rho activity and ROCK2 expression. Importantly, inhibition of Rho/ROCK activity blocked the effects of abnormal matrix stiffness on ICAM-1 clustering and monocyte-EC adhesion. Thus, these findings implicate matrix stiffness-dependent ICAM-1 clustering as an important regulator of vascular inflammation and provide the rationale for closely examining mechanotransduction pathways as new molecular targets for anti-inflammatory therapy. more...
- Published
- 2016
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38. Functional fitness norms for community-dwelling older adults in Hong Kong.
- Author
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Chung PK, Zhao Y, Liu JD, and Quach B
- Subjects
- Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Body Mass Index, Cross-Sectional Studies, Female, Hong Kong, Humans, Male, Muscle Strength, Postural Balance, Reference Values, Sex Factors, Exercise Test, Physical Fitness
- Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to establish normative data for older adults in Hong Kong and explore age and sex differences in functional fitness., Methods: A sample of 944 independent community-dwellers, aged 65-74 years, was evaluated using the Senior Fitness Test battery in addition to hand grip and single leg stance tests. Normative data were reported for the 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th percentiles in 5-year age groups., Results: Except for upper extremity muscle strength in women and body mass index (BMI) in both sexes, ageing-associated degradation was observed in all testing parameters especially in flexibility, balance, and agility. Significant sex differences were found in all testing parameters with the exception of BMI and static balance with eyes open. Moreover, men demonstrated higher capacities for muscle strength, agility, balance, and aerobic endurance, whereas women showed superior flexibility., Conclusion: The normative values enable the evaluation of individual performance regarding the fitness status of older adults in Hong Kong., (Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.) more...
- Published
- 2016
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39. A BRIEF NOTE ON THE VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE RATING OF PERCEIVED EXERTION SCALE IN MONITORING EXERCISE INTENSITY AMONG CHINESE OLDER ADULTS IN HONG KONG.
- Author
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Chung PK, Zhao Y, Liu JD, and Quach B
- Subjects
- Aged, Exercise Test methods, Female, Heart Rate, Hong Kong, Humans, Male, Oxygen Consumption, Reproducibility of Results, Ergometry statistics & numerical data, Exercise Test statistics & numerical data, Perception, Physical Exertion physiology
- Abstract
This study examined the validity and reliability of the Cantonese Borg 6-20 Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale in monitoring exercise intensity among Chinese older adults. A total of 40 apparently healthy older adults (16 men, 24 women; M age=69.8 yr., SD=4.56) performed two trials of three intermittent exercise tests administered in random order using the cycle ergometer. Results revealed significant differences of RPE, HR, and VO2 between different workloads, and there were moderate to high correlations between RPE and HR and VO2, respectively. Results also found moderate consistency of RPE between Trial 1 and Trial 2. These indicated that the Cantonese 6-20 RPE scale can be used as a valid and reliable tool for monitoring exercise intensity among the Chinese older adults. more...
- Published
- 2015
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40. Tracking and Functional Characterization of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Mesenchymal Tumor Cells during Prostate Cancer Metastasis.
- Author
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Ruscetti M, Quach B, Dadashian EL, Mulholland DJ, and Wu H
- Subjects
- Animals, Female, Male, Mesenchymal Stem Cells pathology, Mice, Mice, Transgenic, Neoplasm Metastasis, Neoplastic Stem Cells pathology, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition physiology, Mesoderm pathology, Prostatic Neoplasms pathology
- Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been postulated as a mechanism by which cancer cells acquire the invasive and stem-like traits necessary for distant metastasis. However, direct in vivo evidence for the role of EMT in the formation of cancer stem-like cells (CSC) and the metastatic cascade remains lacking. Here we report the first isolation and characterization of mesenchymal-like and EMT tumor cells, which harbor both epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics, in an autochthonous murine model of prostate cancer. By crossing the established Pb-Cre(+/-);Pten(L/L);Kras(G12D) (/+) prostate cancer model with a vimentin-GFP reporter strain, generating CPKV mice, we were able to isolate epithelial, EMT, and mesenchymal-like cancer cells based on expression of vimentin and EpCAM. CPKV mice (but not mice with Pten deletion alone) exhibited expansion of cells with EMT (EpCAM(+)/Vim-GFP(+)) and mesenchymal-like (EpCAM(-)/Vim-GFP(+)) characteristics at the primary tumor site and in circulation. These EMT and mesenchymal-like tumor cells displayed enhanced stemness and invasive character compared with epithelial tumor cells. Moreover, they displayed an enriched tumor-initiating capacity and could regenerate epithelial glandular structures in vivo, indicative of epithelia-mesenchyme plasticity. Interestingly, while mesenchymal-like tumor cells could persist in circulation and survive in the lung following intravenous injection, only epithelial and EMT tumor cells could form macrometastases. Our work extends the evidence that mesenchymal and epithelial states in cancer cells contribute differentially to their capacities for tumor initiation and metastatic seeding, respectively, and that EMT tumor cells exist with plasticity that can contribute to multiple stages of the metastatic cascade., (©2015 American Association for Cancer Research.) more...
- Published
- 2015
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41. The evolution and putative function of phosducin-like proteins in the malaria parasite Plasmodium.
- Author
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Putonti C, Quach B, Kooistra RL, and Kanzok SM
- Subjects
- Amino Acid Sequence, Molecular Sequence Data, Phylogeny, Plasmodium classification, Plasmodium berghei genetics, Plasmodium berghei metabolism, Sequence Alignment, Thioredoxins chemistry, Evolution, Molecular, Plasmodium genetics, Plasmodium metabolism, Thioredoxins genetics, Thioredoxins metabolism
- Abstract
Ubiquitous to the proteomes of all living species is the presence of proteins containing the thioredoxin (Trx)-domain. The best characterized Trx-domain containing proteins include the enzymes involved in cellular redox metabolism facilitated by their cysteine-containing active site. But not all members of the Trx-fold superfamily exhibit this catalytic motif, e.g., the phosducin-like (PhLP) family of proteins. Genome sequencing efforts have uncovered new Trx-domain containing proteins, and their redox activity and cellular functions have yet to be determined. The genome of the malaria parasite Plasmodium contains multiple thioredoxins and thioredoxin-like proteins which are of considerable interest given their role in the parasite's antioxidant defense. While adaptations within the Trx-domain have been studied, primarily with respect to redox active structures, PhLP proteins have not been examined. Using the uncharacterized phosducin-like protein from Plasmodium berghei PhLP-1, we investigated the evolution of PhLP proteins across all branches of the tree of life. As a result of our analysis, we have discovered the presence of two additional PhLP proteins in Plasmodium, PhLP-2 and PhLP-3. Sequence homology with annotated PhLP proteins in other species confirms that the Plasmodium PhLP-2 and PhLP-3 belong to the PhLP family of proteins. Furthermore, as a result of our analysis we hypothesize that the PhLP-2 thioredoxin was lost over time given its absence from higher-order eukaryotes. Probing deeper into the putative function of these proteins, inspection of the active sites indicate that PbPhLP-1 and PbPhLP-2 may be redox active while PbPhLP-3 is very likely not. The results of this phylogenetic study provide insight into the emergence of this family of Trx-domain containing proteins., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.) more...
- Published
- 2013
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42. Francisella tularensis uses cholesterol and clathrin-based endocytic mechanisms to invade hepatocytes.
- Author
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Law HT, Lin AE, Kim Y, Quach B, Nano FE, and Guttman JA
- Subjects
- Adaptor Proteins, Signal Transducing metabolism, Animals, Caveolins metabolism, Cell Line, Female, Hepatocytes cytology, Mice, Mice, Inbred BALB C, Models, Statistical, Phagocytosis, Pinocytosis, Protein Structure, Tertiary, RNA Interference, Transcription Factor AP-2 metabolism, Tularemia pathology, Cholesterol metabolism, Clathrin metabolism, Endocytosis physiology, Francisella tularensis physiology, Hepatocytes microbiology, Tularemia microbiology
- Abstract
Francisella tularensis are highly infectious microbes that cause the disease tularemia. Although much of the bacterial burden is carried in non-phagocytic cells, the strategies these pathogens use to invade these cells remains elusive. To examine these mechanisms we developed two in vitro Francisella-based infection models that recapitulate the non-phagocytic cell infections seen in livers of infected mice. Using these models we found that Francisella novicida exploit clathrin and cholesterol dependent mechanisms to gain entry into hepatocytes. We also found that the clathrin accessory proteins AP-2 and Eps15 co-localized with invading Francisella novicida as well as the Francisella Live Vaccine Strain (LVS) during hepatocyte infections. Interestingly, caveolin, a protein involved in the invasion of Francisella in phagocytic cells, was not required for non-phagocytic cell infections. These results demonstrate a novel endocytic mechanism adopted by Francisella and highlight the divergence in strategies these pathogens utilize between non-phagocytic and phagocytic cell invasion. more...
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
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43. Chronic and acute inspiratory muscle loading augment the effect of a 6-week interval program on tolerance of high-intensity intermittent bouts of running.
- Author
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Tong TK, Fu FH, Eston R, Chung PK, Quach B, and Lu K
- Subjects
- Humans, Male, Muscle Fatigue physiology, Physical Endurance physiology, Physical Exertion physiology, Physical Fitness physiology, Respiration, Stress, Physiological physiology, Breathing Exercises, Respiratory Muscles physiology, Running physiology
- Abstract
This study examined the hypothesis that chronic (training) and acute (warm-up) loaded ventilatory activities applied to the inspiratory muscles (IM) in an integrated manner would augment the training volume of an interval running program. This in turn would result in additional improvement in the maximum performance of the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test in comparison with interval training alone. Eighteen male nonprofessional athletes were allocated to either an inspiratory muscle loading (IML) group or control group. Both groups participated in a 6-week interval running program consisting of 3-4 workouts (1-3 sets of various repetitions of selected distance [100-2,400 m] per workout) per week. For the IML group, 4-week IM training (30 inspiratory efforts at 50% maximal static inspiratory pressure [P0] per set, 2 sets·d-1, 6 d·wk-1) was applied before the interval program. Specific IM warm-up (2 sets of 30 inspiratory efforts at 40% P0) was performed before each workout of the program. For the control group, neither IML was applied. In comparison with the control group, the interval training volume as indicated by the repeatability of running bouts at high intensity was approximately 27% greater in the IML group. Greater increase in the maximum performance of the Yo-Yo test (control: 16.9 ± 5.5%; IML: 30.7 ± 4.7% baseline value) was also observed after training. The enhanced exercise performance was partly attributable to the greater reductions in the sensation of breathlessness and whole-body metabolic stress during the Yo-Yo test. These findings show that the combination of chronic and acute IML into a high-intensity interval running program is a beneficial training strategy for enhancing the tolerance to high-intensity intermittent bouts of running. more...
- Published
- 2010
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Reduced sensations of intensity of breathlessness enhances maintenance of intense intermittent exercise.
- Author
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Tong TK, Fu FH, Quach B, and Lu K
- Subjects
- Adaptation, Physiological, Adult, Airway Resistance, Humans, Male, Physical Exertion, Dyspnea physiopathology, Exercise, Physical Endurance, Respiration, Respiratory Muscles physiopathology, Sensation, Work of Breathing
- Abstract
To identify the effect of normal breathlessness sensation elicited during intense intermittent exercise at exhaustion on limitation of exercise maintenance (Ex), the contribution of the flow-resistive unloading effect of normoxic helium-oxygen breathing on the breathlessness sensation to the change in the Ex was examined. Seven men repeatedly performed 12-s exercise at 160% maximal aerobic power output followed by passive recovery for 18-s under normal (CON) and unloaded (UL) breathing conditions until exhaustion. In UL, Ex was enhanced [mean (SD) 127.2 (11.8)% CON] concomitantly with reduction in averaged peak inhaled mouth pressure (PPmi) of recorded breathing cycles that reflected approximate true inspiratory muscle force output. At the iso-time point of CON exhaustion, the reduction in PPmi to [75.7(10.2)% CON] in UL was concomitant with the reductions in the rating of perceived breathlessness (RPB) [87.5 (13.1)% CON] and in the slope of time course for RPB (RPB/2-min period) [82.1 (17.2)% CON]. It was also concomitant with increases in ventilation and total oxygen consumption. However, the augmented oxygen consumption did not result in lowering of subjects' metabolic stress that was indicated by accumulations of blood lactate and plasma ammonia and uric acid. Nevertheless, the reductions in the RPB and RPB/2-min period, which reflected the breathlessness intensity, were correlated to the CON Ex enhancement in UL (RPB r=-0.57, RPB/2-min period r=-0.83; P<0.05). These findings implied that the normal noxious breathlessness sensation elicited during intense intermittent exercise at exhaustion might contribute to the limitation of subjects' exercise maintenance. more...
- Published
- 2004
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- View/download PDF
45. Increased sensations of intensity of breathlessness impairs maintenance of intense intermittent exercise.
- Author
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Tong TK, Fu FH, Chow BC, Quach B, and Lu K
- Subjects
- Adult, Ammonia blood, Humans, Male, Oxygen Consumption, Respiratory Muscles physiopathology, Time Factors, Uric Acid blood, Work of Breathing, Dyspnea physiopathology, Exercise physiology, Physical Endurance, Sensation
- Abstract
To identify the reserve of an individual's tolerance of the sensation of breathlessness and metabolic stress in maintaining intense intermittent exercise at exhaustion under conditions of normal breathing, the contribution of the effect of modest inspiratory load on these two responses to the change in the exercise sustainability (Ex(sus)) were examined. Seven men repeatedly performed 12 s exercise at 160% maximal aerobic power output followed by passive recovery for 18 s under normal and ventilatory muscle loaded (VML) breathing conditions until exhaustion. In the VML trial, ventilatory muscle work at exhaustion was double that of the normal control. The control Ex(sus) was reduced [mean (SEM)] [31.7 (6.6)%] while the slope of the time course for the rating of the perceived magnitude of breathing effort (RPMBE/Time), which reflected the intensity of breathlessness, was increased [164.8 (32.2)%] from control and the RPMBE at exhaustion was higher than corresponding control value [144.4 (21.8)%]. Moreover, increases in plasma ammonia and uric acid concentrations, which indicated metabolic stress, were increased [168.1 (28.0)% and 251.7 (57.4)%, respectively], with no change in total oxygen uptake from control when the control exercise was repeated with an identical duration of VML exercise. It was found that the reduction in Ex(sus) in the VML trial was correlated to the increase in their sensations of the intensity of breathlessness (RPMBE/Time: r=0.81; RPMBE at exhaustion: r=0.97, P<0.05). The reduction in Ex(sus), however, was not correlated to the increase in metabolite concentrations. These findings implied that there was no substantial reserve of tolerance of the sensation of breathlessness relative to that of metabolic stress in subjects maintaining intense intermittent exercise at exhaustion under normal conditions of breathing. more...
- Published
- 2003
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
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