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Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the differences in anatomical factors between the patients who underwent revision and primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions (ACLR) and compare the outcomes between the 2 surgeries. Design: Retrospective cohort study. Setting: Single institution tertiary academic center between 2014 and 2020. Patients: A total of 84 matched patients who underwent revision (group I) or primary ACLR (group II). Interventions: Radiological evaluations were performed using side-to-side differences (SS-D), femorotibial angle, and posterior tibial slope. The medial meniscus posterior horn status as width (MMPHW), medial tibial plateau width (MTPW), notch configurations, tunnel positions, and sagittal graft angle were measured using 3D-CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MainOutcomeMeasures: Graft signals were assessed using MRI. The clinical outcomes were assessed. Results: Group I showed larger SS-D and higher mean Howell grade of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft than group II (P50.002 and P50.004, respectively). Multivariate regression analyses showed that the decreased MMPHW/MTPW ratio (P 5 0.010) and notch width index (P, 0.007) were significantly independent factors associated with the higher Howell grade of ACL grafts. The decreased MMPHW/MTPW ratio (P<0.001) was a significantly independent factor associated with larger SS-D. In the subgroup analysis, all patients in the notchplasty group showed wider notches postoperatively (P, 0.001). Conclusions: Revision ACLRs resulted in worse ACL signal intensity and stability outcome. The results of this study suggest that it may be important to preserve the MMPHW as much as possible and check notch configurations, especially during a revision ACLR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is a rare condition characterized by abnormal bone mineralization. The manifestations of HPP vary from no symptoms to intrauterine fetal death; short stature is another indication of HPP. A 3 1/2-year-old boy presented with short stature, transient hypercalcemia, and mild gait disturbance without definite bony deformity. Laboratory examination revealed transient hypercalcemia, normal phosphorous and 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels, and mildly low alkaline phosphatase levels. A targeted next-generation sequencing panel associated with inborn errors of metabolism revealed a pathogenic heterozygous mutation in the ALPL gene, c.979T>C (p.Phe327Leu). When a child visits a hospital with short stature, decreased height velocity, and low alkaline phosphatase level, clinicians should consider the possibility of HPP even if definite skeletal dysplasia is not evident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a 6Gb/s receiver for 8K displays and beyond. In the proposed receiver, a novel channel coding with 1.96% overhead is presented to guarantee minimum run-length in the clock embedded interface. It can also reduce bandwidth for effective data transmission compared to 9b/10b coding that requires 11.11% overhead. Furthermore, we present an on-chip eye margin tester that can measure the internal timing margin of receiver with only 1% area overhead. The prototype ICs are implemented using 0.18-µm HVCMOS process and evaluated in an 8K 65-in. panel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a case report and literature review on familial hypobetalipoproteinemia (FHBL), a genetic disorder characterized by low levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol or total apolipoprotein B (ApoB). The report presents a case of a Korean boy with a novel mutation in the APOB gene, who had low LDL cholesterol levels and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The patient did not exhibit specific symptoms associated with hypocholesterolemia and was managed with vitamin D supplementation, exercise, and a healthy diet. The article emphasizes the importance of monitoring known risk factors for NAFLD progression and considering further genetic testing. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: Recent reports indicate that small for gestational age (SGA) could be a risk factor for delayed thyroid stimulating hormone (dTSH) elevation in preterm infants. The development of dTSH elevation in SGA late-preterm infants with a gestational age of 34–36 weeks has been investigated in only a few studies. Methods: In the present retrospective study, 70 SGA infants and 86 sex- and gestational age-matched controls who presented with normal results on initial thyroid function testing were included. Results: SGA infants had a significantly higher prevalence of dTSH elevation (15.7% vs. 3.5%, P=0.009) compared with appropriate-for-gestational age infants. In SGA infants, the mean age at the time of dTSH was 24 days. Development of dTSH was associated with SGA and medical treatment with dopamine or furosemide. After adjusting for confounding factors, multiple logistic regression analysis showed SGA was a significant risk factor for the development of dTSH elevation (odds ratio, 23.2; 95% confidence interval, 2.27–236.91; P=0.008). Conclusion: SGA infants may be at risk for dTSH and clinicians could consider a second thyroid screening test around the age of 1 month. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various branch anomalies of the aortic arch have been reported, but cases with separate origins of the internal and external carotid arteries with combined direct aortic arch origin of the left vertebral artery are extremely rare. Herein, we present a rare case of aplasia of the left common carotid artery with separate origins of the ipsilateral internal and external carotid arteries and vertebral artery from the aortic arch in a 10-year-old girl. In addition, we review the embryological development and clinical implications of these anatomical variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related disease is a rare systemic fibroinflammatory condition characterized by elevated serum IgG4 levels and infiltration of IgG4-positive plasma cells in various organs. IgG4-related lung disease shows varied radiologic features on chest CT. Patients usually present with a solid nodule or mass mimicking lung cancer; therefore, distinguishing between IgG4-related disease and other conditions is often challenging. Additionally, co-existing radiologic findings of IgG4- related lung disease may mimic metastasis or lymphangitic carcinomatosis of the lung. We report two cases of histopathologically confirmed IgG4-related lung disease mimicking lung cancer. Chest CT revealed a solid nodule or mass with ancillary radiologic findings, which suggested lung cancer; therefore, IgG4-related lung disease was radiologically indistinguishable from lung cancer in both cases. Measurement of serum IgG4 levels and clinical evaluation to confirm involvement of various organs may be useful to establish the differential diagnosis. However, surgical biopsy evaluation is needed for confirmation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study verified the mediating effects of self-concept clarity and rejection sensitivity in the impact of adolescents' covert narcissism on social anxiety. The subjects of this study were 545 middle and high school students aged 15-19 in South Korea. The study analyzed collected data with the SPSS PROCESS macro (models 4 and 6). The results of this study are as follows: First, it was found that the self-concept clarity of adolescents weakened the effect of covert narcissism on social anxiety, and second, rejection sensitivity strengthened the effect between these two variables. Third, covert narcissism had a positive effect on social anxiety. In addition, the double mediating effect of self-concept clarity and rejection sensitivity were also shown to be significant in the relationship between covert narcissism and social anxiety. Based on the results of this study, we discussed what can be applied in counseling for adolescents with covert narcissistic tendencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 37-year-old woman with persistent head and neck atopic dermatitis (AD) unresponsive to dupilumab, who showed significant improvement after switching to upadacitinib. It highlights the challenges and potential adverse effects associated with dupilumab, such as conjunctivitis and erythema, and demonstrates upadacitinib's efficacy as an alternative treatment.

Purpose Capmatinib, an oral MET kinase inhibitor, has demonstrated its efficacy against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with MET dysregulation. We investigated its clinical impact in advanced NSCLC with MET exon 14 skipping mutation (METex14) or gene amplification. Materials and Methods Patients who participated in the screening of a phase II study of capmatinib for advanced NSCLC were enrolled in this study. MET gene copy number (GCN), protein expression, and METex14 were analyzed and the patients' clinical outcome were retrospectively reviewed. Results A total of 72 patients were included in this analysis (group A: GCN ≥ 10 or METex14, n=14; group B: others, n=58). Among them, 13 patients were treated with capmatinib (group A, n=8; group B, n=5), and the overall response rate was 50% for group A, and 0% for group B. In all patients, the median overall survival (OS) was 20.2 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.9 to not applicable [NA]) for group A, and 11.3 months (95% CI, 8.2 to 20.3) for group B (p=0.457). However, within group A, median OS was 21.5 months (95% CI, 20.8 to NA) for capmatinib-treated, and 7.5 months (95% CI, 3.2 to NA) for capmatinib-untreated patients (p=0.025). Among all capmatinib-untreated patients (n=59), group A showed a trend towards worse OS to group B (median OS, 7.5 months vs. 11.3 months; p=0.123). Conclusion Our data suggest that capmatinib is a new compelling treatment for NSCLC with MET GCN ≥ 10 or METex14 based on the improved survival within these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) is diagnosed through biochemical confirmation of excessive catecholamines in urine and plasma. Recent technological developments have allowed us to measure urinary free metanephrines; however, the diagnostic accuracy of these new methods and the diagnostic cutoff values have not been evaluated. Methods: This is a retrospective study of 595 subjects, including 71 PPGL cases and 524 controls. PPGL was based on pathological confirmation. Subjects with no evidence of PPGL over 2 years were included in the control group. Results: Urinary free metanephrines yielded similar area under the curve (AUC) to urinary fractionated metanephrines and plasma free metanephrines. However, urinary free normetanephrine yielded a better AUC than did urinary fractionated normetanephrine. The optimal cutoff for urinary free metanephrine and normetanephrine corrected for urinary creatinine yielded 97.2% sensitivity and 98.1% specificity. Conclusion: Urinary free metanephrines are a reliable method for diagnosing PPGL in Asian populations compared with existing biochemical methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Korean women, a westernized lifestyle is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Fertility preservation has become an increasingly important issue for women with breast cancer, in accordance with substantial improvements in survival rate after cancer treatment. The methods of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) for fertility preservation in breast cancer patients have been modified to include aromatase inhibitors to reduce the potential harm associated with increased estradiol levels. Random-start COH and dual ovarian stimulation are feasible options to reduce the total duration of fertility preservation treatment and to efficiently collect oocytes or embryos. Using a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist as a trigger may improve cycle outcomes in breast cancer patients undergoing COH for fertility preservation. In young breast cancer patients with BRCA mutations, especially BRCA1 mutations, the possibility of diminished ovarian reserve may be considered, although further studies are necessary. Herein, we review the current literature on the practical issues surrounding COH for fertility preservation in women with breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In 2018, the Act on Decisions on Life-Sustaining Treatment for Patients in Hospice and Palliative Care or at the End of Life was implemented and the scope of official recognition for terminally ill patients was expanded. The purpose of this study was to investigate the decisions made by patients with end-stage liver disease about their life-sustaining treatment in a clinical setting. Methods: The subjects of this study were patients with endstage liver disease hospitalized at a tertiary hospital in Seoul, Korea who wrote physician orders for life-sustaining treatment (POLST). Data collection was done using patients' electronic medical records, and a retrospective analysis of POLST was conducted. Results: Among 101 patients, 18.8% were female and 81.2% were male, and their mean age was 61.8 (±10.61) years. Sixty-three patients (62.4%) wrote their POLST by themselves. Three patients withdrew the POLST, of whom two did so for liver transplantation, and one did so for chemotherapy. Conclusion: This study shows that sufficient consideration of liver transplantation is needed for end-stage liver disease patients before making decisions on life-sustaining treatment. The self-determination of patients must be respected and effective guidelines are urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the 1960s, Sir John Charnley introduced to clinical practice his concept of low-friction total hip arthroplasty (THA). Although early designs were plagued by poor performance and even failure, there have been steady advances in implant designs, biomaterials, surgical techniques and an understanding of the biomechanical restoration of the hip; these advances have contributed to improvements in implant survival and clinical outcomes of THA in the past three decades. With improved wear resistance and mechanical reliability, a potential to last for at least 25 to 30 years are now available for THA. In this review, we focus on the evolution of THA and review current controversies and future directions of this procedure based on a single surgeon's 29- year of experience at a single institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of seven phenolics and 44metaboliteswas profiled inwhite flowers ofMagnolia denudata and violet flowers of Magnolia liliiflora using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS), and gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS). Seven phenylpropanoid compounds were identified in white flowers by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). An HPLC analysis showed that phenylpropanoid accumulation in violet flowers was 1.48 times higher than that in white flowers. Furthermore, superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity were determined to investigate the antioxidant properties of secondary metabolites in different flowers. Violet flowers showed higher SOD-like and DPPH activity than white flowers. In addition, anti-inflammatory activity measured using a nitric oxide assay was higher in violet flowers than in white flowers. Our results provide valuable information on the relationship between primary and secondary metabolites, and synergistic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties derived from phenolic compounds in different colored flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Long-acting bronchodilator monotherapy (long-acting β2-agonist [LABA] or long-acting muscarinic antagonist [LAMA]) is extensively used for treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with mild-to-moderate airflow limitation. However, a substantial number of patients remain symptomatic despite treatment with a single bronchodilator, necessitating a change in therapy.Methods: This 12-week, randomized, multicenter, open-label, phase IV study aims to show that the once-daily indacaterol/glycopyrronium (IND/GLY) 110/50 μg fixed-dose LABA/LAMA combination results in an improved lung function in symptomatic patients with mild-to-moderate COPD who switch from once-daily tiotropium 18 μg. The study aims to enroll a total of 404 symptomatic patients in Korea with mild-to-moderate COPD who received tiotropium for at least 12 weeks prior to the study initiation. The primary objective of this study is to demonstrate the superiority of IND/GLY over tiotropium in terms of trough forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) following 12 weeks of treatment. Secondary endpoints include the pre-dose trough FEV1 after 4 weeks of treatment, transition dyspnea index (TDI) total score, COPD assessment test (CAT) total score, and rescue medication use following the 12-week treatment, and safety assessment over the 12-week treatment.Discussion: This study intends to establish the use of LABA/LAMA combination therapy in symptomatic patients with mild-to-moderate COPD by demonstrating the superiority of IND/GLY over tiotropium monotherapy.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02566031 . Registered on 10 August 2015. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of Tagetes, which belong to the family Asteraceae show different characteristics including, bloom size, shape, and color; plant size; and leaf shape. In this study, we determined the differences in primary metabolites and carotenoid yields among six cultivars from two Tagetes species, T. erecta and T. patula. In total, we detected seven carotenoids in the examined cultivars: violaxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, α-carotene, β-carotene, 9-cis-β-carotene, and 13-cis-β-carotene. In all the cultivars, lutein was the most abundant carotenoid. Furthermore, the contents of each carotenoid in flowers varied depending on the cultivar. Principal component analysis (PCA) facilitated metabolic discrimination between Tagetes cultivars, with the exception of Inca Yellow and Discovery Orange. Moreover, PCA and orthogonal projection to latent structure-discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) results provided a clear discrimination between T. erecta and T. patula. Primary metabolites, including xylose, citric acid, valine, glycine, and galactose were the main components facilitating separation of the species. Positive relationships were apparent between carbon-rich metabolites, including those of the TCA cycle and sugar metabolism, and carotenoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of dienogest treatment in patients who had received dienogest for 12 months or more to treat endometriosis. Methods: We analyzed the clinical data of 188 women with endometriosis who had been treated with 2 mg of dienogest once a day for 12 months or more at a single institute. We evaluated changes in endometriosis-associated pain and endometrioma size, recurrence rate, and adverse events following dienogest administration. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured in patients who were prescribed dienogest for more than 18 months. Results: Pain was significantly reduced at 12 months after dienogest medication. In those treated with dienogest due to recurrent endometrioma, the size of the endometrioma was significantly decreased at the 12-month and 18-month follow-ups. We found only one case of sonographic recurrence during dienogest administration among those who were treated postoperatively to prevent recurrence (1 of 114, 0.9%). The most common adverse drug reaction was uterine bleeding (3.2%), and other adverse events were generally tolerable and associated with low discontinuation rates (5.2%). Among the 50 patients in whom BMD was measured, 10 patients (20%) had a Z-score below the expected range for age. Conclusion: The administration of dienogest for a year or more seems to be highly effective in preventing recurrence after surgery, reducing endometriosis-associated pain, and decreasing the size of recurrent endometrioma, with a favorable safety and tolerability profile. However, BMD should be checked in patients on long-term medication due to possible bone loss in some women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A kinetic characterization of the CO2 gasification of chars from Chinese low-rank lignite coal is performed by isothermal thermogravimetry. The isothermal condition is 1,073 K, and the CO2 concentration range is 10–90%. Alkali and alkali earth catalysts were used to promote the gasification reactivity. The gasification rate of the char was increased with the carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration. The gasification rate increment was reduced at a higher concentration, which inhibited the CO2 gasification rate. The best CO2 ratio for gasification was 70%. The gasification rate of the char with CO2 is fast and proceeded in the following order: sodium carbonate(Na2CO3) > potassium carbonate (K2CO3) > calcium carbonate (CaCO3) > dolomite. In this study, the following gas–solid reaction models are compared: the shrinking core model, the volumetric reaction model, the modified volumetric reaction model (MVRM), and the random pore model. The correlation coefficient values of the MVRM were the highest of all the models at all concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the diagnostic performance of transrectal ultrasound in virgin patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, compared with conventional transvaginal ultrasound assessment. Methods: Ultrasound examinations were performed in 963 Korean women, with transvaginal transducers in 677 women and transrectal transducers in 286 women at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital. Transvaginal ultrasound examinations were performed in 494 normal control women and 183 PCOS patients according to National Institutes of Health (NIH) PCOS diagnostic criteria. In virgin patients, transrectal ultrasound examinations were performed in 141 normal control women and 145 PCOS patients. ROC curves were calculated for ovarian volume and follicle number. Results: By transvaginal ultrasound examination, the ovarian volume showed an area under the ROC curve (AURC) of 0.838. An ovarian volume decision threshold > 7 cm³ had a sensitivity of 73.0% and a specificity of 84.2% for the diagnosis of PCOS. The follicle number showed an AURC of 0.886. A follicle number decision threshold ≥ 9 had a sensitivity of 78.6% and a specificity of 87.2% for the diagnosis of PCOS. By transrectal ultrasound examination, the ovarian volume and the follicle number showed AURCs of 0.815 as same thresholds with a sensitivity of 67.2% and 66.4%, respectively and a specificity of 86.8% each. Ovarian volume and follicle number by transvaginal and transrectal ultrasound assessment had a high diagnostic power for PCOS screening. Conclusion: Transrectal ultrasound assessment is as effective as conventional transvaginal ultrasound for the detection of PCOS in virgin patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate preoperative anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels in women with endometrioma or other benign ovarian cysts and differences of AMH changes according to various characteristics. Methods: Ninety-seven patients aged 20 to 39 years who underwent surgery for benign ovarian cyst were enrolled retrospectively. Of these, 65 patients were diagnosed as endometriomas, and 32 had other benign cysts. Serum AMH, mean, maximum, and total diameter of ovarian cysts were measured. The AMH levels were compared according to pathology (endometrioma vs. other benign cyst), size of ovarian cyst, age-matched AMH quartile percentile and characteristics of endometrioma. Results: Preoperative serum AMH level was significantly lower in endometrioma group than other benign cyst group (4.12 ± 2.42 ng/mL vs. 6.02 ± 2.29 ng/mL, P < 0.001). Serum AMH level was significantly lower in endometrioma group, especially in patients aged 30 to 39 years. Dividing to age-matched AMH quartile percentile, there were significantly fewer patients with AMH level ≥ 75 percentile in endometrioma group (24.6% vs. 50.0%, P = 0.035). Among 4 subgroups of endometrioma, patients with AMH level ≥ 75 percentile were significantly decreased in multiple bilateral endometrioma group. Mean and total diameter of cysts were negatively correlated with preoperative serum AMH level in other benign cyst group. Conclusion: We suggest that preoperative AMH level measurement might be considered in women with endometrioma, especially in 30 to 39 years old, multiple bilateral type, or big-sized other benign ovarian cyst to assess the diminished ovarian reserve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mycobacterium intracellulare is a major cause of Mycobacterium avium complex lung disease in many countries. Molecular studies have revealed several new Mycobacteria species that are closely related to M. intracellulare. The aim of this study was to re-identify and characterize clinical isolates from patients previously diagnosed with M. intracellulare lung disease at the molecular level.Methods: Mycobacterial isolates from 77 patients, initially diagnosed with M. intracellulare lung disease were re-analyzed by multi-locus sequencing and pattern of insertion sequences.Results: Among the 77 isolates, 74 (96 %) isolates were designated as M. intracellulare based on multigene sequence-based analysis. Interestingly, the three remaining strains (4 %) were re-identified as "Mycobacterium indicus pranii" according to distinct molecular phylogenetic positions in rpoB and hsp65 sequence-based typing. In hsp65 sequevar analysis, code 13 was found in the majority of cases and three unreported codes were identified. In 16S-23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequevar analysis, all isolates of both species were classified within the Min-A ITS sequevar. Interestingly, four of the M. intracellulare isolates harbored IS1311, a M. avium-specific element. Two of three patients infected with "M. indicus pranii" had persistent positive sputum cultures after antibiotic therapy, indicating the clinical relevance of this study.Conclusions: This analysis highlights the importance of precise identification of clinical isolates genetically close to Mycobacterium species, and suggests that greater attention should be paid to nontuberculous mycobacteria lung disease caused by "M. indicus pranii". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Artificial neural networks is one of pattern analyzer method which are rapidly applied on a bio-medical field.Objective: The aim of this research was to propose an appendicitis diagnosis system using artificial neural networks (ANNs).Methods: Data from 801 patients of the university hospital in Dongguk were used to construct artificial neural networks for diagnosing appendicitis and acute appendicitis. A radial basis function neural network structure (RBF), a multilayer neural network structure (MLNN), and a probabilistic neural network structure (PNN) were used for artificial neural network models. The Alvarado clinical scoring system was used for comparison with the ANNs.Results: The accuracy of the RBF, PNN, MLNN, and Alvarado was 99.80%, 99.41%, 97.84%, and 72.19%, respectively. The area under ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve of RBF, PNN, MLNN, and Alvarado was 0.998, 0.993, 0.985, and 0.633, respectively.Conclusions: The proposed models using ANNs for diagnosing appendicitis showed good performances, and were significantly better than the Alvarado clinical scoring system (p < 0.001). With cooperation among facilities, the accuracy for diagnosing this serious health condition can be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We undertook this study to estimate an accurate incidence and spread patterns of occult papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) in patients with a preoperative diagnosis of solitary PTC by using whole-specimen mapping of all specimens after a total thyroidectomy. Enrolled prospectively in this whole-thyroid mapping study are 82 consecutive patients who underwent a total thyroidectomy under a preoperative diagnosis of solitary PTC. All thyroidectomy specimens were serially sectioned in 2mm thickness and whole-thyroid mapping was carried out for additional foci of occult PTC. The frequencies of occult lesions detected in the whole and contralateral lobe were determined, and clinicopathologic factors associated with multifocality were assessed. Whole-thyroid mapping revealed 66 occult PTC lesions missed by preoperative ultrasound in 37 (45.1%) of the 82 patients. The great majority (92.5%) of the occult PTC was smaller than 3mm in size and 25 patients (30.5%) had contralateral lesions. We found that the male sex was an independent predictor of multifocality (odds ratio (OR), 3.00; 95% CI, 1.11-8.14), adjusting for preoperative findings. Analysis with pathologic parameters showed that the male sex (OR, 5.03; 95% CI, 1.68-15.08) and extrathyroidal extensions (OR, 3.03; 95% CI, 1.03-8.95) were associated with multifocal PTC. However, none of the clinicopathologic factors evaluated predicted contralateral PTC. Our study demonstrates the diagnostic limitations of ultrasound for the detection of multifocal PTC and the need to consider the possibility of occult lesions in the management of solitary PTC, especially in male patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the findings of a research study conducted to evaluate the relationship between serum bilirubin and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) severity and progression in smokers with COPD. Topics covered include the prevalence and management of COPD, details relating to the serum bilirubin measured in the study participants, and the positive relationship of serum bilirubin to lung function and progression rate of airflow limitation in smokers.

Neuroendocrine lesions of the thyroid are rare. The most common types are medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTCs) and C-cell hyperplasia. MTCs originate from thyroid parafollicular cells that secrete calcitonin which serves as a serum marker of MTCs. Here, the rare case of a calcitonin-negative neuroendocrine tumor (NET) derived from follicular lesions of the thyroid is described. A 34-year-old man presented at our hospital for the surgical management of an incidental thyroid nodule that was observed on an ultrasound sonography (USG) of the neck. Initially, USG-guided aspiration cytology was performed, and a MTC was suspected. The expressions of thyroglobulin and thyroid transcription factor-1, which are thyroid follicular cell markers, and synaptophysin and chromogranin A, which are neuroendocrine markers, was confirmed following surgical pathology. However, the staining of calcitonin, a marker of MTCs, was not observed. A nonmedullary NET of the thyroid is uncommon, and the distinction between calcitonin-negative NETs and MTCs of the thyroid may be important due to differences in their clinical courses and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive microglial activation and subsequent neuroinflammation lead to synaptic loss and dysfunction as well as neuronal cell death, which are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of several neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, the regulation of microglial activation has been evaluated as effective therapeutic strategies. Although dieckol (DEK), one of the phlorotannins isolated from marine brown alga Ecklonia cava, has been previously reported to inhibit microglial activation, the molecular mechanism is still unclear. Therefore, we investigated here molecular mechanism of DEK via extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), Akt and nicotinamide adenine dinuclelotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase–mediated pathways. In addition, the neuroprotective mechanism of DEK was investigated in microglia–mediated neurotoxicity models such as neuron-microglia co-culture and microglial conditioned media system. Our results demonstrated that treatment of anti-oxidant DEK potently suppressed phosphorylation of ERK in lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 1 μg/ml)-stimulated BV-2 microglia. In addition, DEK markedly attenuated Akt phosphorylation and increased expression of gp91phox, which is the catalytic component of NADPH oxidase complex responsible for microglial reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Finally, DEK significantly attenuated neuronal cell death that is induced by treatment of microglial conditioned media containing neurotoxic secretary molecules. These neuroprotective effects of DEK were also confirmed in a neuron-microglia co-culture system using enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP)–transfected B35 neuroblastoma cell line. Taken together, these results suggest that DEK suppresses excessive microglial activation and microglia-mediated neuronal cell death via downregulation of ERK, Akt and NADPH oxidase-mediated pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interest in pharmacist participation in the multidisciplinary intensive care team is increasing. However, studies examining pharmacist interventions in the medical intensive care unit (MICU) are limited in Korea. The aim of this study was to describe the current status of pharmacist interventions and to identify common pharmacologic problems requiring pharmacist intervention in the MICU. Methods: Between September 2013 and August 2014, a retrospective, observational study was conducted in the 22-bed MICU at a university hospital. Data were obtained from two trained pharmacists who participated in MICU rounds three times a week. In addition to patient characteristics, data on the cause, type, related drug, and acceptance rate of interventions were collected. Results: In 340 patients, a total of 1211 pharmacologic interventions were performed. The majority of pharmacologic interventions were suggested by pharmacists at multidisciplinary rounds in the MICU. The most common pharmacologic interventions were adjustment of dosage and administration (n = 328, 26.0%), followed by parenteral/enteral nutritional support (n = 228, 18.1%), the provision of drug information (n = 228, 18.1%), and advice regarding pharmacokinetics (n = 118, 9.3%). Antimicrobial agents (n = 516, 42.6%) were the most frequent type of drug associated with pharmacist interventions. The acceptance rate of interventions was 84.1% with most accepted by physicians within 24 hours (n = 602, 92.8%). Conclusions: Medication and nutritional problems are frequently encountered pharmacotherapeutic problems in the MICU. Pharmacist interventions play an important role in the management of these problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium is a widely used heavy metal in industry and affects the male reproductive system of animals, including humans, as a result of occupational and environmental exposures. However, the molecular mechanism underlying its effect on steroidogenesis in gonads remains unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that exposure of K28 mouse testicular Leydig tumor cells to cadmium led to a significant increase in the mRNA level, promoter activity and protein level of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), an essential factor for steroid biosynthesis. It has been well documented that StAR gene transcription is regulated by multiple transcription factors, including cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) family members and SF-1. Cadmium treatment caused an increase in CREB phosphorylation but did not alter the CREB protein level in the nucleus. EMSA studies revealed that cadmium-induced phosphorylated CREB formed specific complexes with the proximal region of the StAR gene promoter. Furthermore, co-transfection with a CREB expression plasmid significantly increased cadmium-induced StAR promoter activity. However, the nuclear level and the affinity of SF-1 protein for the StAR proximal promoter were dramatically decreased upon exposure to cadmium. Taken together, these results suggest that cadmium up-regulates StAR gene expression through phosphorylated CREB rather than through SF-1 in mouse testicular Leydig cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Outcomes of antibiotic treatment for lung disease caused by nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are unsatisfactory. The role of adjunctive surgery in the treatment of NTM lung disease is still unclear. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of 70 patients who underwent pulmonary resection for NTM lung disease from March 2007 to February 2013. All patients received recommended antibiotic treatment before and after the surgery. Results: A total of 70 patients underwent 74 operations. The median age of the patients was 50 years. Of the 70 patients, 45 (64%) had Mycobacterium avium complex infection (24 M. intracellulare and 21 M. avium) and 23 (33%) had M. abscessus complex infection (15 M. abscessus and 8 M. massiliense). Thirty-eight (54%) patients had the nodular bronchiectatic form and 28 (40%) had the fibrocavitary form of NTM lung disease. The indications for surgery were a poor response to drug therapy (n=52), remnant cavitary lesions and severe bronchiectasis (n=14), and hemoptysis (n=4). Preoperative sputum acid-fast bacilli staining results were positive in 44 (63%) patients, and sputum culture was positive in 54 (76%). The surgery included lobectomy or lobectomy plus segmentectomy (n=50, 68%), segmentectomy (n=11, 15%), pneumonectomy or completion pneumonectomy (n=8, 11%), bilobectomy or bilobectomy plus segmentectomy (n=4, 5%), and wedge resection (n=1, 1%). Postoperative complications occurred in 15 (21%) patients, including one postoperative death and bronchopleural fistula in 5 patients with the fibrocavitary form of the disease. A negative sputum culture was achieved and maintained in 57 (81%) patients. Conclusions: Although adjuvant pulmonary resection is associated with a relatively high complication rate, this procedure may provide a high level of treatment success for selected patients with NTM lung disease, such as those with a poor response to antibiotic treatment alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanosized Pt-Sn/VC and Pt-Co/VC electrocatalysts were prepared by a one-step radiation-induced reduction (30 kGy) process using distilled water as the solvent and Vulcan XC72 as the supporting material. While the Pt-Co/VC electrodes were compared with Pt/VC (40wt%, HiSpec 4000), in terms of their electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of H2, the Pt-Co/VC electrodes were evaluated in terms of their activity towards the hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and compared with Pt/VC (40 wt%, HiSpec 4000), Pt-Co/VC, and Pt-Sn/VC in a single cell. Additionally, the prepared electrocatalyst samples (Pt-Co/VC and Pt- Sn/VC) were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemical surface area (ECSA), and fuel cell polarization performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CONTEXT: Bronchoscopic intervention can provide immediate relief from suffocation and an opportunity for additional treatment in patients with malignant airway obstruction. However, few studies have specifically identified prognostic factors affecting the survival of advanced lung or esophageal cancer patients receiving bronchoscopic intervention. AIMS: We aimed to investigate prognostic factors influencing survival in these patients. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted retrospective study. METHODS: The clinical parameters were retrospectively reviewed in 51 patients (lung cancer: n = 35; esophageal cancer: n = 16) who underwent palliative bronchoscopic interventions due to malignant airway. RESULTS: Bronchoscopic interventions, such as mechanical removal (n = 26), stenting (n = 31), laser cauterization (n = 19), and ballooning (n = 16), were performed on intraluminal (n = 21, 41%), extrinsic (n = 8, 16%), and combined lesions (n = 22, 43%). Tracheal invasion was found in 24 patients (47%). Successful palliation was achieved in 49 patients (96%). After the intervention, additional anti-cancer treatment was followed in 24 patients (47%). The median survival time and overall survival rate were 3.4 months and 4%. Survival was increased with selected conditions, including a treatment-naive status (hazard ratio [HR], 0.359; confidence interval [CI], 0.158.0.815; P = 0.01), an intact proximal airway (HR, 0.265; CI, 0.095.0.738; P = 0.01), and post-procedural additional treatment (HR, 0.330; CI, 0.166.0.657; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Brochoscopic intervention could provide immediate relief and survival improvement in advanced lung or esophageal cancer patients with selected conditions such as a treatment-naive status, an intact proximal airway, and available post-procedural additional treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carotenoid-biofortified (PAC) rice was developed and confirmed to synthesis carotenoids (zeaxanthin, α-carotene and β-carotene) in rice endosperm. For biosafety assessment of PAC rice, the stability of the insert genes in carotenoidbiofortified rice at genomic and protein expression level through different generations (T3~T6) was studied. Southern blot analysis confirmed that the multi-generation stability of the genes : PAC gene (CrtI and Psy), promoters (35S and Glb), terminators (NOS and PinII), selectable marker (bar) and MAR gene. It was also confirmed that the backbone DNA containing antibacterial gene (aadA) was not present in PAC rice. Immuno-strip assay (PAT) showed that the bar gene was stably expressed through generations. HPLC analysis confirmed that carotenoids were consistently detected through T3~T6 generations. These results will be filed to biosafety assessment document of PAC rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a case study of a 65-year-old female former smoker presenting with gradually worsening shortness of breath while walking up a flight of stairs and a daily cough and and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). She is treated with inhaled corticosteroids and a long acting β2 agonist. The advantages offered by inhaled corticosteroids in the treatment of COPD as well as precautions to be taken are described. Some tips for patients to follow are also highlighted.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate treatment outcomes in patients with thoracic actinomycosis and identify patient characteristics associated with unfavorable responses to antibiotic therapy. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on 40 patients with pathologically confirmed thoracic actinomycosis. RESULTS: Initial surgical treatment was performed on 17 patients to control severe symptoms such as hemoptysis or rule out lung cancer. Sixteen (94%) patients were successfully treated, including three patients who did not receive postoperative antibiotics, and one patient died of a postoperative complication. The median duration of oral antibiotic therapy after surgery was 3 months. After the diagnosis of actinomycosis, 23 patients began antibiotic therapy. The median duration of oral antibiotic therapy was 5 months. Favorable treatment outcomes were achieved in 18 of these 23 patients (78%), while five (22%) showed unfavorable responses to antibiotic therapy. Surgery was successfully performed in these five patients. The patients with unfavorable responses to antibiotic therapy had a longer duration of symptoms prior to treatment (median, 10 months) as compared to patients with favorable responses (median, 2 months; P = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: Medical treatment failure is possible in patients with thoracic actinomycosis, and close monitoring is necessary in those who begin antibiotic therapy. In addition, surgical resection may be a valid option for patients who do not respond to antibiotic therapy, with the consideration of the age and comorbid conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies have compared the clinical and radiographic findings of tuberculomas to those of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) caused by Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC). We retrospectively analyzed clinical and radiographic findings from 26 patients with tuberculomas and 15 patients with SPNs caused by MAC. Median SPN size was 22 mm. In 26 patients (63%), the SPN was detected during a routine health checkup or evaluation of organs other than lungs. Patients with SPNs due to MAC were slightly older (median = 59 years) compared with those with tuberculomas (median = 50 years; P = 0.044). When we compared computed tomography (CT) features between patients with tuberculomas and patients with MAC, no significant differences were found in SPN location or the presence of calcification, cavitation, central low attenuation, and the satellite lesions. Although the maximum standardized uptake values were slightly higher in patients with SPNs due to MAC (median = 8.5) compared with those with tuberculomas (median = 2.2), this difference was not significant ( P = 0.053). Of the 15 patients with SPNs due to MAC, 10 were initially diagnosed with “tuberculoma” and administered antituberculosis medication. MAC pulmonary disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of SPNs, even when encountered in geographic regions with a high prevalence of pulmonary tuberculosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: The treatment choice for post-intubation tracheal stenosis (PITS) in patients for whom surgery is not initially feasible is bronchoscopic silicone stenting. A new silicone stent, called the Natural stent (N stent), was investigated for its clinical efficacy and safety in patients with PITS. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of 32 patients with PITS who underwent N stenting between November 2001 and December 2006 and were followed for at least 12 months. Results: Airway dilatation with combined modalities such as Nd : YAG laser, ballooning or bougienage was followed by N stent insertion. After intervention, all patients had symptomatic and spirometric improvement without immediate complications. Removal of the stent without re-stenosis was successful in 38% of the patients at a median time of 7 months after insertion. The stent could not be removed or needed reinsertion in 31% of patients, and 16% of patients underwent surgery after initial stabilization by stenting. Late complications were stent migration (34%), mucostasis (31%), granulation tissue formation (38%) and re-stenosis (40%). All patients tolerated the management of complications during a median follow up of 22 months. Conclusions: Bronchoscopic N stenting is an effective treatment for patients with PITS in whom surgery is not feasible on initial presentation. Further stent development is necessary to reduce the late complication rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a DNA microarray system using a bipolar integrated circuit photodiode array (PDA) chip as a new platform for DNA analysis. The PDA chip comprises an 8 × 6 array of photodiodes each with a diameter of 600 μm. Each photodiode element acts both as a support for an immobilizing probe DNA and as a two-dimensional photodetector. The usefulness of the PDA microarray platform is demonstrated by the detection of high-risk subtypes of human papilloma virus (HPV). The polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-amplified biotinylated HPV target DNA was hybridized with the immobilized probe DNA on the photodiode surface, and the chip was incubated in an anti-biotin antibody-conjugated gold nanoparticle solution. The silver enhancement by the gold nanoparticles bound to the biotin of the HPV target DNA precipitates silver metal particles at the chip surfaces, which block light irradiated from above. The resulting drop in output voltage depends on the amount of target DNA present in the sample solution, which allows the specific detection and the quantitative analysis of the complementary target DNA. The PDA chip showed high relative signal ratios of HPV probe DNA hybridized with complementary target DNA, indicating an excellent capability in discriminating HPV subtypes. The detection limit for the HPV target DNA analysis improved from 1.2 nM to 30 pM by changing the silver development time from 5 to 10 min. Moreover, the enhanced silver development promoted by the gold nanoparticles could be applied to a broader range of target DNA concentration by controlling the silver development time. [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain-specific homeobox (Bsx) is specifically expressed at the early embryonic stages during brain development. Several studies show that Bsx plays important roles in brain development; however, the mechanisms of its transcriptional regulation remain to be established. In this study, we show that binding of repressor element silencing transcription factor (REST) to the neuron restrictive silencer element (NRSE) represses Bsx transcription in non-neuronal P19 cells. The Bsx promoter contains several putative binding sites for transcription factors, including NRSE for REST and the GC box for the transcriptional activator, Sp1. Upon neuronal differentiation of P19 cells with retinoic acid, Bsx gene expression increased, whereas that of the REST gene decreased. Electrophoretic mobility shift analyses demonstrated that recombinant REST proteins bound the NRSE region of the Bsx promoter. In neuronal NS20Y cells, transcriptional activity of the Bsx promoter was decreased upon expression of REST. Moreover, dominant-negative REST derepressed Bsx transcription in P19 cells. Sp1-mediated transcriptional activity of the Bsx promoter was attenuated by treatment with mithramycin A, a GC box-binding drug, but was enhanced upon mutation of NRSE. Co-immunoprecipitation and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that the Bsx promoter appeared to be modulated by direct interactions between REST and Sp1. The CpG sites of NRSE and GC box were completely unmethylated, signifying no interference of DNA methylation. Our results suggest that binding of REST to NRSE suppresses the Sp1-mediated activation of Bsx in non-neuronal cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.—Although identification of the primary tumor in patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma has a profound clinical impact, diagnosing the organ of origin is frequently difficult. Because none of the individual immunohistochemical markers used for tissue identification are both site specific and site sensitive, multiple makers are needed to improve the prediction of primary sites. Objective.—To develop an effective approach to immunohistochemically evaluate metastatic adenocarcinoma for the assignment of a likely primary site of origin. Design.—Expression profiles of CDX2, cytokeratin (CK) 7, CK20, thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF-1), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), MUC2, MUC5AC, SMAD4, estrogen receptor (ER), and gross cystic disease fluid protein 15 (GCDFP-15) were generated in adenocarcinomas from 7 primary sites, followed by construction of a decision tree and design of multiple-marker panels. Expression of these markers was evaluated immunohistochemically in 314 primary adenocarcinomas (50 cases each of colorectal, gastric, lung, pancreatic, bile duct, and breast, and 14 cases of ovarian origin) using the tissue array method. Results were validated using 60 cases of metastatic adenocarcinoma with known primaries. Results.—Organ-specific immunostaining profiles using multiple markers provided high sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value in detecting primary adenocarcinomas, as follows: colorectal, TTF-1-/CDX2+/CK7-/CK20+ or TTF-1-/CDX2+/CK7-/CK20-/(CEA+ or MUC2+); ovarian, CK7+/MUC5AC+/TTF-1-/CDX2-/CEA-/GCDFP-15-; breast, GCDFP-15+/TTF-1-/CDX2-/CK7+/CK20- or ER+/TTF-1-/CDX2-/CK20-/CEA-/MUC5AC-; lung, TTF-1+ or TTF-1-/CDX2-/CK7+/CK20-/GCDFP-15-/ER-/CEA-/ MUC5AC-; pancreaticobiliary, TTF-1-/CDX2-/CK7-/ CEA+/MUC5AC+; and stomach, TTF-1-/CDX2+/CK7+/ CK20-. Overall, these combined phenotypes correctly predicted the tester samples (metastatic adenocarcinomas with known primaries) in 75% of cases. Conclusions.—Determination of tissue-specific immunostaining profiles is valuable in the diagnostic differentiation of metastatic adenocarcinomas from seven common primary sites and should help to correctly predict the organ of primary tumor origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the Monte Carlo simulation of submonolayer film growth during molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) at low temperature. We have made systematic study to see how the parameters diffusion to flux ratio (D/F), diffusional anisotropy (DA) and sticking anisotropy influences on island density exponent (χ), size distribution and scaling behaviour. We have found that, as diffusional anisotropy changes from DA = 1 to DA = ∝, the density exponent changes from χ = 0.34 ± 0.01 to 0.28 ± 0.01 for isotropic sticking case but when sticking is anisotropic the density exponent changes from χ = 0.31 ± 0.01 to 0.24 ± 0.01. The influence produced by DA on island size distribution is observed to depend on D/F ratio and sticking anisotropy. Depending on DA values and D/F ratio, the size distribution is also observed to be insensitive to the change in diffusional anisotropy. We also study the influence of diffusional anisotropy on scaling function for two sticking anisotropy condition. The scaling behaviour of island size distribution is observed to be not affected by all diffusional anisotropy as well as sticking anisotropy condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr-based chalcogenide spinels, which do not have heterovalency and distortion-induced ions such as manganese oxides with perovskite structure, have demonstrated the existence of colossal magnetoresistance. In order to investigate the magnetotransport phenomena and magnetic properties of sulfospinels Zn x Fe1− x Cr2S4, polycrystalline Zn x Fe1− x Cr2S4 samples were synthesized in the 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.2 range by a solid reaction method. The crystal structure for x = 0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 turned out to be cubic at room temperature by X-ray diffraction measurement. In magnetoresistance measurement, Zn x Fe1− x Cr2S4 samples indicate that this system is semiconducting below about 150 K. The temperature of maximum magnetoresistance is almost consistent with Curie temperature. The isomer shift and the electric quadrupole shift of Zn x Fe1− x Cr2S4 samples by Mössbauer experiment show that Fe2+ ions occupy the tetrahedral site in the spinel structure. As the Zn ions are substituted for Fe ions, the Jahn–Teller relaxation slows down and the electric quadrupole shift increases. The magnetotransport phenomena of Zn x Fe1− x Cr2S4 is related to Jahn–Teller effect and half-metallic electronic structure, which are different from the double exchange interactions of the manganite La–Ca–Mn–O system or the triple exchange interactions of sulfospinel Cu x Fe1− x Cr2S4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neuromodulator of nociceptive responses in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and spinal cord. BDNF synthesis increases in response to nerve growth factor (NGF) in trkA-expressing small and medium-sized DRG neurons after inflammation. Previously we demonstrated differential activation of multiple BDNF promoters in the DRG following peripheral nerve injury and inflammation. Using reporter constructs containing individual promoter regions, we investigated the effect of NGF on the multiple BDNF promoters, and the signaling pathway by which NGF activates these promoters in PC12 cells. Although all the promoters were activated 2.4-7.1-fold by NGF treatment, promoter IV gave the greatest induction. The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor, SB203580, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI-3K) inhibitor, LY294003, protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor, H89, and protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor, chelerythrine, had no effect on activation of promoter IV by NGF. However, activation was completely abolished by the MAPK kinase (MEK) inhibitors, U0126 and PD98059. In addition, these inhibitors blocked NGF-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) 1/2. Taken together, these results suggest that the ERK1/2 pathway activates BDNF promoter IV in response to NGF independently of NGF-activated signaling pathways involving PKA and PKC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to examine the proactive socialisation beliefs (goals, attributions, strategies) of Korean mothers regarding preschoolers' social skills (sharing, controlling negative emotions, and helping others). Participants were 116 mothers in Seoul, Korea. The reasons that mothers provided for the importance of each skill, their causal attributions for the acquisition of those skills, and the socialisation strategies that would be most effective, were targeted. Korean mothers rated controlling negative emotions as less important than sharing and helping others, and were least likely to attribute the importance of social skills to social conventional reasons and provide different ratings and reasons, for the importance of children's skills depending on the sex of their child. Specifically, mothers posit more moral reasons for girls, but more developmental reasons for boys. Also, Korean mothers made more external causal attributions than internal attributions for being good at sharing and helping, whereas emotion regulation was thought to be equally a factor of external and internal reasons. In terms of socialisation strategies, Korean mothers endorsed a higher proportion of modelling than any other strategy for the socialisation of all three social skills, regardless of the sex of the child. In conclusion, Korean mothers' beliefs were related to both traditional and modern Korean ideologies and values in meaningful ways. This study highlights the significance of cultural ideologies regarding children and the family in the study of maternal beliefs regarding child socialisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injury to peripheral nerves causes a neuropathic pain which is difficult to relieve, hut the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. In previous studies we reported that voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel a genes are downregulated in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) following chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve [Kim et al. (2002)], suggesting a relationship between electrical abnormalities of the injured neurons and Kv gene expression. Here, we examined expression of the Kv 1.2, 1.4, and 4.2 genes in the DRG following transection of the sciatic nerve, and investigated the effect of nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) on expression of those mRNAs, using the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Expression of these mRNAs was reduced by axotomy and by exposure to BDNF, and NT-3 treatment. However no significant change was detected following NGF treatment. Our findings suggest that downregulation of Kv channel gene expression in DRG neurons by neurotrophins may play an important role in long-term changes of neuronal excitability following nerve injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents a study which examined whether direct repeat of N-type voltage-gated calcium channel gene functions as a negative regulatory element in HeLa cells. Review of related literature; Materials and methods used; Results and discussion.

Studies the purification, pH-dependent conformational change, aggregation and secretory granule membrane binding property of secretogranin II (chromogranin C). Acidic pH- and calcium ion-dependent aggregation; PH-dependent secretory vesicle membrane binding; Active participation of secretogranin II in secretory granule biogenesis.

This article presents a study on the isolation of ursolic acid and euscaphic acid from the ethanolic extract of Chaenomelis fructus and its use as marker compounds for quality control of Chaenomelis fructus products. It discusses the use of evaporative light scattering detection in analyzing samples, and the chemical structures of ursolic acid and euscaphic acid.