Risk factor analysis of coexisting endometrial carcinoma in patients with endometrial hyperplasia: a retrospective observational study of Taiwanese Gynecologic Oncology Group

Yu-Li Chen,Kung-Liahng Wang,Min-Yu Chen,Mu-Hsien Yu,Chen-Hsuan Wu,Yu-Min Ke,Yi-Jen Chen,Yin-Yi Chang,Keng-Fu Hsu,Ming-Shyen Yen 대한부인종양학회 2013 Journal of Gynecologic Oncology Vol.24 No.1

Objective: To evaluate the clinical outcome and parameters related to coexisting endometrial carcinoma in women with tissuediagnosed endometrial hyperplasia. Methods: Between January 1991 and December 2009, three hundred and eighty-six patients with the presumptive diagnosis of endometrial hyperplasia were retrieved. Among these, one hundred and twenty-five patients were identified as having coexisting endometrial carcinoma in hysterectomy specimens. The three hundred and eighty-six patients were divided into two groups: the hyperplasia-benign group (261 cases) and the hyperplasia-malignant group (125 cases). Several clinical parameters including age, menopausal status, history of abnormal uterine bleeding, obstetrical history, medical history of diabetes and hypertension, BMI, and preoperative pathologic results were investigated. Results: Age ≥53 (odds ratio [OR], 2.40; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.26 to 4.57), menopausal status (OR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.14to 3.76), diabetes history (OR, 7.33; 95% CI, 2.79 to 19.26), abnormal uterine bleeding (OR, 3.99; 95% CI, 1.22 to 13.02), atypical endometrial hyperplasia (OR, 7.38; 95% CI, 4.03 to 13.49), and body mass index ≥27 (OR, 3.24; 95% CI, 1.76 to 5.97) were independent risk factors for prediction of endometrial hyperplasia coexisting with endometrial carcinoma. The diagnostic efficacy of atypical endometrial hyperplasia to predict the endometrial hyperplasia coexisting with endometrial carcinoma was better than or similar to those of other independent factors and combinations of these factors. Conclusion: Coexisting malignancy should be considered when examining endometrial hyperplasia patients with the related risk factors, especially atypical endometrial hyperplasia.

A Novel Active Image AuthenticationSchemefor Block Truncation Coding

Chang-Ming Wu,Yu-Chen Hu,Kuo-Yu Liu,Jun-Chou Chuang 보안공학연구지원센터 2014 International Journal of Signal Processing, Image Vol.7 No.5

In this paper, a simple active image authentication scheme for the compressed images of block truncation coding (BTC) is proposed. In this scheme, the authentication codes of the compressed blocks are generated from the random value induced by the random seed. The authentication code of each compressed block is embedded into the bit map. The bit length of each authentication code can be chosen according to the user’s requirement. The experimental results indicate that the proposed scheme detects the tampered areas clearly and keeps good image qualities of the embedded images. Meanwhile, a low computational cost is required in the proposed scheme.

Numerical Investigation of Flow Characteristics in a Viscous Damping System with Symmetrical Hydraulic Cylinders

Yu-Ting Wu,Zhen Qin,Amre Eizad,Sung-Ki Lyu,Choon-Man Lee 한국정밀공학회 2021 International Journal of Precision Engineering and Vol.22 No.4

Hydraulic dampers are widely applied due to their characteristics of absorbing huge impact energy, stable and reliable working performance, and easy on-demand design. The hydraulic cylinder is an important part of the hydraulic damping system and the flow conditions inside the cylinder significantly affect its performance. However, only a few researches related to the flow field inside the hydraulic cylinder have been reported. In this study, a novel viscous damping system with opposing symmetrical hydraulic cylinders that can guarantee the smoothness of vibration absorption in a single degree of freedom is proposed. The advantage of this design is that the damping characteristic can be regulated using the external flow valve provided in the external hydraulic loop. The hydraulic damping system is simulated using the commercial software ANSYS Fluent software environment, different strokes and frequencies are applied to observe the internal flow characteristics. As can be seen from the results of numerical investigation, when the piston on one side moves, the piston on the other side also moves, and the pressure change in the cylinder is caused by the collective effect of the cavity volume change and the flow change of the hydraulic oil. In addition, by comparing the streamline and velocity distribution in the cavity under different strokes and frequencies, the relationship between vortex and velocity and compression distance is summarized. These results provide valuable information to facilitate the design of viscous damping system with symmetrical hydraulic cylinders

Computed tomographic analysis of maxillary sinus anatomy relevant to sinus lift procedures in edentulous ridges in Taiwanese patients

Yu, Shun-Jen,Lee, Yi-Hao,Lin, Ching-Ping,Wu, Aaron Yu-Jen Korean Academy of Periodontology 2019 Journal of Periodontal & Implant Science Vol.49 No.4

Purpose: To analyze the maxillary sinus anatomy over edentulous ridges in the bilateral posterior maxillary area in Taiwanese patients using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: In total, 101 anatomical sites from 61 patients, including 32 premolar and 69 molar regions, were analyzed using CBCT. Measurements were made of the width and height of edentulous ridges, the thickness of the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus, and the presence of a sinus septum and the posterior superior alveolar artery (PSAA). A statistical analysis of the measurements was performed, and correlations among the measurements were assessed. Results: The average ridge width was $10.26{\pm}3.16mm$, with a significantly greater ridge width in the second molar region than in the premolar region. The mean residual ridge height was $8.55{\pm}4.09mm$, and ridge height showed an opposite trend from ridge width for the premolar and molar regions. A sinus septum was present at 5.9% of the sites, and the PSAA was observed in 24.5%. The average thickness of the lateral wall of the maxillary sinus was $2.08{\pm}0.94mm$, with no significant difference between the tooth position and lateral wall thickness. Conclusions: This study presents the anatomical features of the maxillary sinus, which should be considered in sinus lift procedures for implant placement, in the Taiwanese population. The use of CBCT is recommended to avoid intraoperative complications.

From Identity to Economy

Wu Yu-Shan 동아시아재단 2013 Global Asia Vol.8 No.1

American ginseng significantly reduced the progression of high-fat-diet-enhanced colon carcinogenesis in Apc^Min/+ mice

Yu, Chunhao,Wen, Xiao-Dong,Zhang, Zhiyu,Zhang, Chun-Feng,Wu, Xiaohui,He, Xin,Liao, Yang,Wu, Ningning,Wang, Chong-Zhi,Du, Wei,He, Tong-Chuan,Yuan, Chun-Su The Korean Society of Ginseng 2015 Journal of Ginseng Research Vol.39 No.3

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of death worldwide. Chronic gut inflammation is recognized as a risk factor for tumor development, including CRC. American ginseng is a very commonly used ginseng species in the West. Methods: A genetically engineered $Apc^{Min/+}$ mouse model was used in this study. We analyzed the saponin composition of American ginseng used in this project, and evaluated its effects on the progression of high-fat-diet-enhanced CRC carcinogenesis. Results: After oral ginseng administration (10-20 mg/kg/d for up to 32 wk), experimental data showed that, compared with the untreated mice, ginseng very significantly reduced tumor initiation and progression in both the small intestine (including the proximal end, middle end, and distal end) and the colon (all p < 0.01). This tumor number reduction was more obvious in those mice treated with a low dose of ginseng. The tumor multiplicity data were supported by body weight changes and gut tissue histology examinations. In addition, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that compared with the untreated group, ginseng very significantly reduced the gene expression of inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-$1{\alpha}$ (IL-$1{\alpha}$), IL-$1{\beta}$, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-${\alpha}$, granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in both the small intestine and the colon (all p < 0.01). Conclusion: Further studies are needed to link our observed effects to the actions of the gut microbiome in converting the parent ginsenosides to bioactive ginseng metabolites. Our data suggest that American ginseng may have potential value in CRC chemoprevention.

Mechanisms of Electroacupuncture Pretreatment in Alleviating Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury: Interactions between the Cerebellar Fastigial Nucleus and Lateral Hypothalamic Area

Yu Qing,Wu Li-bin,Zhang Fan,Wei Xiao-tong,Chen Pian-pian,Wang Shuai-ya,Cai Mei-yi,Shu Qi,Li Liao-yuan,Wu Zi-jian,Cai Rong-lin,Hu Ling 사단법인약침학회 2021 Journal of Acupuncture & Meridian Studies Vol.14 No.6

Background: Myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury (MIRI) is an important mechanism of post-myocardial infarction injury and a main cause of death in patients with ischemic heart disease. Electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment is effective for the prevention and treatment of MIRI, but mechanisms mediating the effects of cardiovascular disease EA treatments remain unclear. Objectives: To determine whether the lateral hypothalamus (LHA) and the cerebellar fastigial nucleus (FN) are involved in the protective effects of EA stimulation on MIRI. Methods: EA pretreatment was performed for 7 days before the establishment of the MIRI model. ST-segment changes on electrocardiograms were recorded and the Curtis–Walker arrhythmia score was used to evaluate changes in reperfusion injury. Hematoxylin–eosin staining was applied to evaluate the pathological and morphological changes in myocardial tissue. c-fos expression in the LHA and FN was determined by immunofluorescence staining. Glutamic (Glu) and γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatography-electrochemical method. Results: EA pretreatment reduced ST-segment elevation, arrhythmia scores, and morphological changes in MIRI myocardial cells in rats, and decreased the c-fos protein expression in LHA/FN nuclei. MIRI was associated with an imbalance between GABA and Glu levels, whereas EA pretreatment increased GABA levels and decreased Glu levels in the LHA/FN. Conclusion: FN and LHA are involved in the EA-mediated attenuation of MIRI. Pretreatment with EA plays a protective role in the myocardium by regulating Glu and GABA release in the LHA and FN.

Numerical investigation of the mechanical component design of a hexacopter drone for real-time fine dust monitoring

Yu-Ting Wu,Zhen Qin,Amre Eizad,Sung-Ki Lyu 대한기계학회 2021 JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Vol.35 No.7

Multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are being widely used in various military and civilian fields because they can replace manned systems in the performance of a variety of difficult and/or hazardous tasks. Various UAV designs have been developed to fulfill the requirements of various applications. The current work investigates the design of a hexacopter drone with foldable arms to support the six propulsion units that is designed for realtime fine dust monitoring. The propeller and foldable arm are the key mechanical power transmission components in this design, so their propulsion performance and safety reliability have been numerically investigated in this research. The finite volume method (FVM) based aerodynamic characteristics simulation is utilized to calculate and observe the operational performance of eight different proposed propeller blade designs. The optimal design was obtained through a series of comparisons of the simulation outcomes. The flow field force acting on the propeller blade was analyzed using the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) based simulation method. In addition, the design philosophy of using carbon fiber composite material to replace the traditional aluminum alloy in the manufacture of the foldable arm is presented. The rationality of this design philosophy is verified through finite element method (FEM) based structural analysis. The design experience gained from this study provides a theoretical basis for the development of components for multi-rotor UAVs.

Feeling ‘Jalous’, Feeling Ill: Rethinking the Jealous Husband Trope in the Chaucerian Tradition

Yu-Ching Wu 한국고전중세르네상스영문학회 2021 중세근세영문학 Vol.31 No.2

Male jealousy in romantic contexts often functions as an exciting, laughter-jerking device in medieval literature, where such jealousy drives characters into moments of ridicule. This article, however, seeks to underscore the affective darkness beyond the jolly façade. Through the critical lens of the history of emotions, I will demonstrate how the premodern cultural grammar of jealousy was highly influenced by suspicious jealousy in the scriptural tradition. Furthermore, I argue that such affective alignment is consciously embroidered with the syntax of mental illness, particularly via the trope of the jealous-husband. By surveying a number of examples drawn from Chaucer’s fabliaux and romances, I hope to underscore the way in which jealousy contributes to the complexity of medieval mental landscape via its laughable perversion.

Aberrant Methylation of RASSF2A in Tumors and Plasma of Patients with Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Wu, Yu,Zhang, Xian,Lin, Li,Ma, Xiao-Ping,Ma, Ying-Chun,Liu, Pei-Shu Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention 2014 Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention Vol.15 No.3

Objective: The tumor suppressor gene, Ras-association domain family (RASSF)2A, is inactivated by promoter hypermethylation in many cancers. The current study was performed to evaluate the methylation status of RASSF2A in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) tissues and plasma, and correlations with gene expression and clinicopathologic characteristics. Method: We detected methylation of the RASSF2A gene in tissues and corresponding plasma samples from 47 EOC patients and 14 patients with benign ovarian tumors and 10 with normal ovarian tissues. The methylation status was determined by methylation-specific PCR while gene expression of mRNA was examined by RT-PCR. The EOC cell line, SKOV3, was treated with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-azadC). Results: RASSF2A mRNA expression was significantly low in EOC tissues. The frequency of aberrant methylation of RASSF2A was 51.1% in EOC tissues and 36.2% in corresponding plasma samples, whereas such hypermethylation was not detected in the benign ovarial tumors and normal ovarian samples. The expression of RASSF2A mRNA was significantly down-regulated or lost in the methylated group compared to the unmethylated group (p<0.05). After treatment with 5-aza-dC, RASSF2A mRNA expression was significantly restored in the Skov3 cell line. Conclusion: Epigenetic inactivation of RASSF2A through aberrant promoter methylation may play an important role in the pathogenesis of EOC. Methylation of the RASSF2A gene in plasma may be a valuable molecular marker for the early detection of EOC.