Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Ruijun Wang, Chang Liu, Taoyang Chen, Yuting Wang, Chunsun Fan, Lingling Lu, Fengmin Lu, Chunfeng Qu
Summary: Among elder children/young adults who received hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination during infancy, the serological status of HBsAg(-)/anti-HBc(+) was frequently reported, indicating potential occult HBV infection (OBI). Neonatal HBV vaccination provided effective protection against OBI in mature adults, with unvaccinated individuals having a higher infection rate. The prevalence of HBsAg(-)/anti-HBc(+) increased with age in unvaccinated individuals.
HEPATOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
An-qun Hu, Qian-ying Cai, Miao Zhang, Hai-yan Liu, Tian-lei Wang, Wen-hui Han, Qing Li, Wei Fan, Yi-jie Li, Yi-ning He, Ying-jie Zheng
Summary: This study investigated different types of hepatitis B infection among mothers and infants, evaluating the effectiveness of vaccination against hepatitis B infection. The refinement of classification based on transmission types improved the estimate of vaccine effectiveness, particularly for certain types of transmission.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2021)
Article
Virology
Camilla Rodrigues de Almeida Ribeiro, Nathalia Alves Araujo de Almeida, Katrini Guidolini Martinelli, Marcia Amendola Pires, Carlos Eduardo Brandao Mello, Jose J. Barros, Vanessa Salete de Paula
Summary: In this study, cytokine levels were examined in patients with HBV occult infection and chronic hepatitis C. The results showed that there were higher levels of cytokines in OBI/HCV patients compared to the control group and HBV monoinfected patients. IL-17A was found to be high in the HBV monoinfected group, while TNF-alpha, IL-10, IL-6, IL-4, and IL-2 were elevated in OBI/HCV patients.
Review
Virology
Carlo Saitta, Teresa Pollicino, Giovanni Raimondo
Summary: Occult hepatitis B virus infection refers to the presence of replication-competent viral DNA in the liver of individuals testing negative for HBsAg. The low replication activity is mainly controlled by the host's immune system and epigenetic factors. This infection has various clinical impacts, including transmission of hepatitis B, reactivation during immunosuppression, acceleration of chronic liver disease progression, and promotion of hepatocellular carcinoma development.
Review
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Maria Stella Franze, Teresa Pollicino, Giovanni Raimondo, Giovanni Squadrito
Summary: The clinical implications of hepatitis B virus occult infection (OBI) are still uncertain, particularly in the development of liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). OBI may contribute to worsening liver disease and promote HCC development through specific mechanisms. However, data on OBI prevalence and clinical impact in non-hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver disease are limited.
LIVER INTERNATIONAL
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Hao Wang, Fenfang Liao, Junmo Xie, Wenbo Gao, Min Wang, Jieting Huang, Ru Xu, Qiao Liao, Zhengang Shan, Yourong Zheng, Xia Rong, Chengyao Li, Yongshui Fu
Summary: The study revealed that E2G/A/V/D mutations significantly influence the detection of HBsAg, with different underlying mechanisms for OBI caused by E2 mutations in genotype B and genotype C. Additionally, E2G/A mutations may result in a N-terminal truncated S protein, contributing to HBsAg secretion impairment in OBI.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Virology
Qingqin Hao, Zheng Wang, Qinghui Wang, Bo Chen, Huizhong Qian, Xiao Liu, Hong Cao, Wei Xia, Jian Jiang, Zhonghua Lu
Summary: In patients with OBI, the plasma level of AP000253 decreased significantly, similar expression was observed in liver tissues. Functional experiments suggested that AP000253 could promote HBV transcription and replication in hepatoma cell lines.
Article
Hematology
Anna S. Nishiya, Jose E. Levi, Cesar de Almeida-Neto, Steven S. Witkin, Suzete C. Ferreira, Leda Bassit, Ester C. Sabino, Claudia Di-Lorenzo-Oliveira, Nanci A. Salles, Adenilson S. Coutinho, Maria A. Bellesa, Vanderson Rocha, Alfredo Mendrone-Jr
Summary: The study found that highly sensitive molecular tests can improve the detection of occult HBV infections. Performing nucleic acid testing in pooled samples, along with HBcAb testing, can help identify donors with occult HBV infection and enhance transfusion safety. Mutations in the S gene are common in HBsAg-positive blood, including immune escape mutations that can impact diagnostic accuracy and vaccine efficacy.
Article
Virology
Xuelian Deng, Dan Liu, Maelenn Pailine Delcourt, Huihui Gao, Lu Zhou, Daniel Candotti
Summary: Between 2011 and 2021, a total of 869,633 blood donations were collected from prequalified donors in Dalian, China. Only 0.12% of the samples were confirmed to be positive for hepatitis B virus (HBV). Testing for hepatitis delta virus (HDV) antibodies in 2175 donations revealed that only 0.09% of the samples showed weak reactivity, but they were confirmed to be false positives upon repeat testing. Among the confirmed occult HBV infection (OBI) samples, only one non-Chinese donor showed repeated reactivity to HDV antibodies, suggesting that HDV/HBV coinfection does not play a significant role in the genesis of OBI. Overall, the data indicated a very low prevalence of HDV infection among blood donors in Liaoning province, Northeast China.
Article
Microbiology
Renxiang Xia, Jing Peng, Jian He, Ping Jiang, Chunyan Yuan, Xiaoli Liu, Yunqing Yao
Summary: This study investigated the clinical and virological characteristics of individuals in China with chronic occult hepatitis B virus infection (HBV) and their correlation with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Findings revealed that there are at least 21 million individuals with occult HBV infection in China. The presence of HBcAb(+) indicated not only chronic HBV infection, but also a dangerous marker for surface antigen-negative patients. Regular check-ups every six months or one year are recommended for early detection of HCC in occult infection patients.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Virology
Bulent Cakal, Bilger Cavus, Alp Atasoy, Damla Altunok, Mehves Poda, Mesut Bulakci, Mine Gulluoglu, Mehmet Demirci, Leyla Turker Sener, Asli Berru Arslan, Muzaffer Arikan, Filiz Akyuz
Summary: This study found specific patterns of HBV S gene mutations in patients with OBI, especially in the a determinant region and T helper cell epitopes of HBsAg, suggesting a potential association with OBI.
Article
Immunology
Jing Peng, Xueying Yao, Chunyan Yuan, Xiaoli Liu, Renxiang Xia, Jian He, Rui Li, Yunqing Yao
Summary: This study investigated the potential mechanism and therapeutic potential of hepatitis B vaccine immunotherapy for occult hepatitis B virus infection (OBI) patients. The results showed that hepatitis B vaccine significantly increased the levels of hepatitis B surface antibodies in patients and had a significant impact on the number of peripheral blood B lymphocytes and CD8(+) T lymphocytes.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Kazumasa Sakamoto, Kiyoaki Ito, Hiroshi Yotsuyanagi, Hiroshi Yatsuhashi, Yasuhito Tanaka, Shuhei Hige, Yasuhiro Takikawa, Yoshiyuki Ueno, Kazuhide Yamamoto, Fumio Imazeki, Jun Inoue, Masayuki Kurosaki, Takeji Umemura, Hidenori Toyoda, Eiji Mita, Kojiro Michitaka, Tatsuji Maeshiro, Norie Yamada, Atsushi Suetsugu, Miwa Kawanaka, Yuya Seko, Kentaro Matsuura, Akinori Okumura, Yoshitaka Fukuzawa, Masaya Sugiyama, Masashi Mizokami, Masashi Yoneda
Summary: This study found that the distribution of HBV genotypes among CHB patients in Japan has changed over time, with an increase in genotype A among young adults and a shift of genotypes B and C towards older age groups. This data provides important baseline information for comparative studies on the impact of universal HBV vaccination.
JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY
(2022)
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Yi Li, Lili Li, Yarong Song, Minmin Liu, Xiangjun Zhai, Zhongping Duan, Feng Ding, Liguo Zhu, Jie Jiang, Huaibin Zou, Jie Wang, Jie Li
Summary: This study found that the incidence of occult HBV infection (OBI) in children of mothers positive for HBsAg is high, but a booster HepB can reduce the risk of OBI in children.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL HEPATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Virology
Lok-Ka Lam, Thomas Sau Yan Chan, Yu-Yan Hwang, Lung-Yi Mak, Wai-Kay Seto, Yok-Lam Kwong, Man-Fung Yuen
Summary: This case report describes the reactivation of hepatitis B virus in a patient undergoing ibrutinib treatment. The authors emphasize the importance of systematic screening for hepatitis B exposure prior to ibrutinib treatment and subsequent monitoring of serological and molecular markers of hepatitis B.
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Jia-Feng Wu, Chi -San Tai, Kai -Chi Chang, Huey -Ling Chen, Yen-Hsuan Ni, Hong-Yuan Hsu, Mei-Hwei Chang
Summary: This study found a close relationship between HBsAg titers in childhood and the development of advanced fibrosis in adulthood. Higher HBsAg titers in childhood were associated with a higher risk of advanced fibrosis in adulthood.
CLINICAL GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Immunology
Hong-Yuan Hsu, Huey Ling Chen, Cheng Lun Chiang, Ming Wei Lai, Shu Chi Mu, Wan Hsin Wen, Shao Wen Cheng, Jen Jan Hu, Kai Chi Chang, Chien Nan Lee, Chun Jen Liu, Jia Feng Wu, Yen Hsuan Ni, Mei Hwei Chang
Summary: Maternal TDF therapy during late pregnancy can reduce the risk of HBV mother-to-infant transmission. Maternal genotype C and pre-S1 wild-type sequence at delivery are associated with infant IPF.
CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES
(2023)
Article
Surgery
Chu-Kuang Chou, Chien-Chuan Chen, Chieh-Chang Chen, Jia-Feng Wu, Wei-Chih Liao, Han-Mo Chiu, Hsiu-Po Wang, Ming-Shiang Wu, Ping-Huei Tseng
Summary: The study found that anti-reflux mucosal intervention is an effective and safe endoscopic treatment for PPI-dependent GERD, but there may be negative effects in some patients. Further research is needed to evaluate treatment response and avoid the detrimental effect of PPI discontinuation.
SURGICAL ENDOSCOPY AND OTHER INTERVENTIONAL TECHNIQUES
(2023)
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Huey-Huey Chua, Mei-Hwei Chang, Ya-Hui Chen, Daw-Jen Tsuei, Yung-Ming Jeng, Po-Huang Lee, Yen-Hsuan Ni
Summary: We identified RBMY as a predictive biomarker for hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis. Provirus integration phosphorylates RBMY, leading to stabilized and translocated RBMY that promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and mitochondrial dysregulation in hepatocellular carcinoma, resulting in distant metastasis.
CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Oncology
Chih-Hsiang Yu, Shiann-Tarng Jou, Ying-Hui Su, Elane Coustan-Smith, Gang Wu, Chao-Neng Cheng, Meng-Yao Lu, Kai-Hsin Lin, Kang-Hsi Wu, Shu-Huey Chen, Fang-Liang Huang, Hsiu-Hao Chang, Jinn-Li Wang, Hsiu-Ju Yen, Meng-Ju Li, Shu-Wei Chou, Wan-Ling Ho, Yen-Lin Liu, Chia-Ching Chang, Ze-Shiang Lin, Chien-Yu Lin, Hsuan-Yu Chen, Yu-Ling Ni, Dong-Tsamn Lin, Shu-Wha Lin, Jun J. Yang, Yen-Hsuan Ni, Ching-Hon Pui, Sung-Liang Yu, Yung-Li Yang
Summary: This study analyzed data from two consecutive protocols to determine the clinical impact of minimal/measurable residual disease (MRD) and tumor genetic subtypes in newly diagnosed pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. The results showed that MRD-directed therapy improved outcomes for pediatric ALL, especially for standard-risk patients. This study provides important data to inform the design of future clinical trials in Taiwan.
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Wei-Chen Lin, Wei-Chen Tai, Chung-Hsin Chang, Chia-Hung Tu, I-Che Feng, Ming-Jium Shieh, Chen-Shuan Chung, Hsu-Heng Yen, Jen-Wei Chou, Jau-Min Wong, Yu-Hwa Liu, Tien-Yu Huang, Chiao-Hsiung Chuang, Tzung-Jiun Tsai, Feng-Fan Chiang, Chien-Yu Lu, Wen-Hung Hsu, Fang-Jung Yu, Te-Hsin Chao, Deng-Chyang Wu, Ai-Sheng Ho, Hung-Hsin Lin, Chun-Lung Feng, Keng-Liang Wu, Ming-Wun Wong, Chien-Chih Tung, Chun-Chi Lin, Chia-Chang Chen, Huang-Ming Hu, Lung-Sheng Lu, Huann-Sheng Wang, I-Chen Wu, Hsin-Yu Kuo, Jia-Feng Wu, Hsiang Yao Shih, Yen-Hsuan Ni, Shu-Lun Tang, Peng-Hsu Chen, Shu-Chen Wei
Summary: This nationwide prospective registry study investigated the real-world effectiveness, safety, and persistence of vedolizumab (VDZ) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients in Taiwan. Disease relapse rates after VDZ discontinuation due to reimbursement restriction were assessed.
INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES
(2023)
Review
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Way Seah Lee, Katsuhiro Arai, George Alex, Suporn Treepongkaruna, Kyung Mo Kim, Chee Liang Choong, Karen S. C. Mercado, Andy Darma, Anshu Srivastava, Marion M. Aw
Summary: Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) is increasing rapidly in the Asia-Pacific region, and current guidelines may not be applicable in this region. This position paper aims to provide an evidence-based approach to PIBD in the Asia-Pacific region, considering the unique disease characteristics and regional resources. Extensive literature search was performed to cover epidemiology, disease characteristics, management, and monitoring. Gastrointestinal infections, including tuberculosis, should be ruled out before diagnosing IBD, and the NUD15 gene may be a better predictor of leukopenia compared to TPMT in some Asian populations. The main considerations in using biologics in this region are high cost, access, and infectious risk, particularly tuberculosis. This position paper serves as a useful guide for clinicians in managing PIBD in the Asia-Pacific region.
JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Chia-Chu Yeh, Chieh-Chang Chen, Chien-Chuan Chen, Ming-Lun Han, Jia-Feng Wu, Hsiu-Po Wang, Ming-Shiang Wu, Ping-Huei Tseng
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of the esophageal microbiome in achalasia patients and the changes before and after peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). The study found that there were distinct microbiome differences in achalasia patients, with an abundance of Lactobacillus. After POEM, the abundance of Lactobacillus decreased, and Neisseria increased. Further studies are needed to understand the long-term effects of these microbial changes.
JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Chee-Seng Lee, Yen-Hsuan Ni, Huey-Ling Chen, Jia-Feng Wu, Hong-Yuan Hsu, Yin-Hsiu Chien, Ni-Chung Lee, Wuh-Liang Hwu, Ting-An Yen, Huey-Huey Chua, Yu-Ju Chen, Yu-Lin Wang, Mei-Hwei Chang
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the potential of matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) levels measured using the dried blood spot (DBS) method within 3 days of birth as a screening tool for biliary atresia (BA) patients. MMP-7 levels were significantly higher in BA patients compared to non-BA patients. DBS MMP-7 analysis can be used to distinguish BA from other conditions as early as 3 days of age.
JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY AND NUTRITION
(2023)
Article
Pediatrics
Chi -Bo Chen, Jacob Shujui Hsu, Pei-Lung Chen, Jia-Feng Wu, Huei-Ying Li, Bang -Yu Liou, Mei-Hwei Chang, Yen-Hsuan Ni, Wuh-Liang Hwu, Yin-Hsiu Chien, Yen -Yin Chou, Yao-Jong Yang, Ni-Chung Lee, Huey-Ling Chen
Summary: This study used advanced genetic analysis methods to assist in the clinical diagnosis of genetic liver diseases. A combined panel-WES approach was found to be efficient, with a diagnostic yield of 27.8% for 352 patients.
JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS
(2023)
Letter
Medicine, General & Internal
Yu-Cheng Lin, Pi-Feng Chang, Yen-Hsuan Ni
JOURNAL OF THE FORMOSAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
(2023)
Article
Pediatrics
Cheng-Yu Chen, Mei-Hwei Chang, Huey-Ling Chen, Yin-Hsiu Chien, Jia-Feng Wu
Summary: Compared with patients identified later based on the presence of cholestasis/hepatitis, patients identified early by newborn screening have less severe cholestasis and are cholestasis-free at a significantly younger age. A timely diagnosis is needed, along with follow-up examinations that assess metabolic profile and body weight, to improve the long-term prognosis of NICCD patients.
PEDIATRIC RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Sung -Pin Fan, Yih-Chih Kuo, Ni-Chung Lee, Yin-Hsiu Chien, Wuh-Liang Hwu, Yu-Hsuan Huang, Han- Lin, Tai -Chung Tseng, Tung -Hung Su, Shiou-Ru Tzeng, Chien -Ting Hsu, Huey -Ling Chen, Chin-Hsien Lin, Yen-Hsuan Ni
Summary: In this retrospective analysis, the clinical characteristics and long-term outcomes of a large cohort of WD patients were determined. Differences were observed between the neuro-psychiatric group and the hepatic group in terms of presentation, neuroimaging, genetic information, and prognosis. The findings suggest that the clinical characteristics and prognosis of WD are influenced by ethnic differences.
JOURNAL OF MOVEMENT DISORDERS
(2023)