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Background/Aims: The controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), based on tran sient elastography, is widely used for noninvasive assessment of the degree of hepatic steatosis (HS). We investigated the correlation of the degree HS between CAP and ultrasound (US) in patients with HS. Methods: In total, 986 patients with US-based HS who underwent transient elas tography within 1 month were evaluated. The US-based grade of HS was catego rized as mild (grade 1), moderate (grade 2), or severe (grade 3). Results: The CAP was significantly correlated with the US-based grade of HS (r = 0.458, p < 0.001). The median CAP value of each US-based HS grade showed a pos itive correlation with grade (271.1, 303.7, and 326.7 dB/m for grades 1, 2, and 3). In a multivariate analysis, the US-based HS grade, body mass index, serum albumin, alanine aminotransferase, and total cholesterol, and liver stiffness were all sig nificantly correlated with the CAP value (all p < 0.05). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for grade 2 to 3 and grade 3 HS were 0.749 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.714 to 0.784) and 0.738 (95% CI, 0.704 to 0.772). The opti mal cut-off CAP values to maximize the sum of the sensitivity and specificity for grade 2 to 3 and grade 3 HS were 284.5 dB/m (sensitivity 78.6%, specificity 61.7%) and 298.5 dB/m (sensitivity 84.6%, specificity 55.6%). Conclusions: The correlation of the degree of HS between CAP and US was sig nificantly high in patients with HS, and the optimal cut-off CAP values for grade 2 to 3 and grade 3 HS were 284.5 and 298.5 dB/m.

Cryopreservation provides a secure long-term conservation option for rare and endangered plant species with non-orthodox or limitedly available seeds. Wide application of cryopreservation to biobank wild flora is hampered by the need to re-optimize nearly all protocol steps for every new species. We applied a systematic approach to simplify optimization of a multi-stage droplet-vitrification method for the endangered wetland Korean species, Pogostemon yatabeanus. This approach consisted of a standard procedure pre-selected based on material type and size, which was complemented with 11 additional treatments to reveal the most impactful conditions. Effect of ammonium nitrate at various protocol steps was also tested. The highest shoot tip survival (92%) and plant regeneration (90%) after cryopreservation were achieved using preculture with 10% sucrose followed by 40 min osmoprotection and 60 min treatment with vitrification solution A3-80% (33.3% glycerol + 13.3% dimethyl sulfoxide + 13.3% ethylene glycol + 20.1% sucrose) on ice. A three-step regrowth procedure starting with ammonium-free medium with 1 mg/L GA3 and 1 mg/L BA followed by ammonium-containing medium with and without growth regulators was essential for the development of healthy plants from cryopreserved shoot tips. This approach enables fast optimization of the cryopreservation procedure for new osmotic stress-sensitive plant species.

Cryopreservation provides a secure long-term conservation option for rare and endangered plant species with non-orthodox or limitedly available seeds. Wide application of cryopreservation to biobank wild flora is hampered by the need to re-optimize nearly all protocol steps for every new species. We applied a systematic approach to simplify optimization of a multi-stage droplet-vitrification method for the endangered wetland Korean species, Pogostemon yatabeanus. This approach consisted of a standard procedure pre-selected based on material type and size, which was complemented with 11 additional treatments to reveal the most impactful conditions. Effect of ammonium nitrate at various protocol steps was also tested. The highest shoot tip survival (92%) and plant regeneration (90%) after cryopreservation were achieved using preculture with 10% sucrose followed by 40 min osmoprotection and 60 min treatment with vitrification solution A3-80% (33.3% glycerol + 13.3% dimethyl sulfoxide + 13.3% ethylene glycol + 20.1% sucrose) on ice. A three-step regrowth procedure starting with ammonium-free medium with 1 mg/L GA3 and 1 mg/L BA followed by ammonium-containing medium with and without growth regulators was essential for the development of healthy plants from cryopreserved shoot tips. This approach enables fast optimization of the cryopreservation procedure for new osmotic stress-sensitive plant species.

Purpose This study was performed to investigate the effect of exposure parameters on image quality obtained using a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner and the relationship between physical factors and clinical image quality depending on the diagnostic task. Materials and methods CBCT images of a SedentexCT IQ phantom and a real skull phantom were obtained under different combinations of tube voltage and tube current (Alphard 3030 CBCT scanner, 78-90 kVp and 2-8 mA). The images obtained using a SedentexCT IQ phantom were analyzed technically, and the physical factors of image noise, contrast resolution, spatial resolution, and metal artifacts were measured. The images obtained using a real skull phantom were evaluated for each diagnostic task by 6 oral and maxillofacial radiologists, and each setting was classified as acceptable or unacceptable based on those evaluations. A statistical analysis of the relationships of exposure parameters and physical factors with observer scores was conducted. Results For periapical diagnosis and implant planning, the tube current of the acceptable images was significantly higher than that of the unacceptable images. Image noise, the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), the line pair chart on the Z axis, and modulation transfer function (MTF) values showed statistically significant differences between the acceptable and unacceptable image groups. The cut-off values obtained using receiver operating characteristic curves for CNR and MTF 10 were useful for determining acceptability. Conclusion Tube current had a major influence on clinical image quality. CNR and MTF 10 were useful physical factors that showed significantly associations with clinical image quality.

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Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and non-GIST subepithelial tumors (SETs) account for about 75 and 25 % of gastric hypoechoic SETs ≥2 cm, respectively. Therefore, identifying preoperative predictive factors for GISTs are required to refine surgical indications. We performed a retrospective review of 375 surgically resected gastric hypoechoic SETs ≥2 cm. Demographic data and tumor characteristics based on upper endoscopy and CT findings were compared between GIST and non-GIST SETs originating from muscularis propria layer (leiomyomas, Schwannomas, glomus tumors, and ectopic pancreas). In cardia, leiomyomas were found twice more frequently than GISTs (63.6 versus 31.8 %). Perilesional lymph node enlargement (PLNE) was found only in patients with GIST or Schwannomas. Patients with GIST showed a significantly lower rate of PLNE than those with Schwannomas (3.5 versus 29.0 %). In multivariate analysis, tumor site outside cardia (odds ratio, 9.157), absence of PLNE (odds ratio, 11.519), old age, large tumor size, exophytic growth pattern, and ulceration or dimpling were identified as independent preoperative predictive factors for GISTs versus non-GIST SETs. The effort for preoperative pathologic diagnosis such as endosonography-guided tissue sampling might be positively considered for SETs at cardia and SETs with PLNE where the possibility of GIST is low.

Purpose This study investigated the relationship between pain and internal derangement in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods This study analyzed 356 TMD patients (712 temporomandibular joints [TMJs]). The inclusion criteria were the presence of spontaneous or provoked pain on one or both TMJs and having undergone MRI. The patients with provoked pain were divided into 3 groups: pain on palpation, pain on mouth opening, and pain on mastication. MRI was performed using a 1.5-T scanner. T1- and T2-weighted parasagittal and paracoronal images were obtained. According to the findings on the T1-weighted images, another 3 groups were created based on internal derangement: normal, disc displacement with reduction, and disc displacement without reduction. The MRI findings were independently interpreted by 2 experienced oral and maxillofacial radiologists at 2 different times. Statistical analysis was performed by the chi-square test using SPSS (version 12.0; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results Provoked pain on mouth opening was found to be correlated with internal derangement in TMD patients (P.05). Conclusion These results suggest that internal derangement was a significant predictor of provoked pain on mouth opening.

Purpose: This study was performed to find the relationship between pain and joint effusion using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients. Materials and Methods: The study subjects included 232 TMD patients. The inclusion criteria in this study were the presence of spontaneous pain or provoked pain on one or both temporomandibular joints (TMJs). The provoked pain was divided into three groups: pain on palpation (G1), pain on mouth opening (G2), and pain on mastication (G3). MRI examinations were performed using a 1.5-T MRI scanner. T1- and T2-weighted images with para-sagittal and para-coronal images were obtained. According to the T2-weighted image findings, the cases of effusions were divided into four groups: normal, mild (E1), moderate (E2), and marked effusion (E3). A statistical analysis was carried out using the χ 2 test with SPSS (version 12.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results: Spontaneous pain, provoked pain, and both spontaneous and provoked pain were significantly related to joint effusion in TMD patients (p⁄0.05). However, among the various types of provoked pain, pain on palpation of the masticatory muscles and TMJ (G1) was not related to joint effusion in TMD patients (p¤0.05). Conclusion: Spontaneous pain was related to the MRI findings of joint effusion; however, among the various types of provoked pain, pain on palpation of the masticatory muscles and TMJ was not related to the MRI findings of joint effusion. These results suggest that joint effusion has a significant influence on the prediction of TMJ pain. (Imaging Sci Dent 2014; 44: 293-9)

The fasciocutaneous flap transplanted into the oral cavity often acquires a gross appearance resembling that of intraoral mucosa. The purpose of this study was to analyze the histologic and morphological changes of the fasciocutaneous free flap in oropharyngeal reconstruction and attempt to determine the related causes. A study was done from January 2006 to February 2010. Study subjects included 67 of 239 patients who had undergone reconstructive surgery after oropharyngeal tumor resection. Histologic evaluation of biopsy specimens was also performed in 20 patients. The correlation of the morphological changes with various factors was analyzed. The histologic examination revealed that numerous histologic changes occurred although the overall structure of the skin was maintained. Analysis of the associated factors showed that the primary defect site was highly correlated with this morphological change in the intraoral flaps.Analysis of the associated factors showed that the primary defect site was highly correlated with this morphological change in the intraoral flaps. Histologic analysis reveals that fasciocutaneous free flaps maintain their feature as cutaneous skin yet undergo changes because of the characteristic oral cavity environment, which resulted in an intermediate-stage morphology.

Characteristics of non-point source (NPS) pollution runoff from a public park in Gwangju, Korea were investigated. Results exhibited the highest pollutant concentrations at the start of the rainfall events due to their build-up and wash off processes. The average event mean concentrations (EMCs) were 27.8, 7.2, 56.3, 7.5, and 0.84 mg/L (range: 4.2–54.8 mg/L) for COD, (0.5–20.8 mg/L) for TOC, (22.3–138.4) for SS, (1.4–18.5 mg/L) for T-N, and (0.17–2.02 mg/L) for T-P, respectively. The study site presented a strong first flush effect for most rainfall events. However, no first flush effect was observed in rainfall events with small rainfall factors (e.g. intensity, amount, and runoff depth). On the other hand, the ratios of total pollution loads discharged by the first 20% of runoff volume were 32% for COD, 34% for TOC, 36% for SS, 42% for T-N, and 50% for T-P. Especially, MFF20 (mass first flush) values of T-N and T-P were larger than those of other pollutants (COD, TOC, SS), indicating that T-N and T-P are easily transported by stormwater runoff from the public park. First flush management of T-N and T-P, therefore, is required for efficient water quality management of the public park.

Poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA), a biodegradable and biocompatible polyester, has been used as material of for tissue engineered scaffold and regenerative medicine. In this study, hydroxyapatite (HAp) and PLLA composite was electrospun. PLLA fibers were treated with an amino groups containing base in order to fabricate amino groups modified polymeric microcylinders. Simvastatin was loaded into the PLLA/HAp microcylinders. Our study focuses on the incorporation HAp and Simvastatin into the fibrous and cylindrical structure, its effects on the loading and release of simvastatin, and biological responses to osteoblast cells. The aspect ratio of microcylinders was tunable by varying the aminolysis treatment time and density of the base. The effects of the PLLA/HAp composites on osteoblast cell proliferation were evaluated. The PLLA/HAp may interact with osteoblast and obtain desired effects that were stimulating osteoblast function and restraining the osteoclast function for bone tissue regeneration. The potential of the developed composite microcylinders could be a promising way to fabricate the microfibrous structural scaffold that accelerates cell proliferation and functions for bone tissue engineering.

This paper describes a sensitive, non-destructive displacement assay, using a fluorescent peptide indicator, for real-time monitoring of the interactions between RNA and RNA binding proteins (RBPs). The developed fluorescent peptide indicators, each containing a mid-sequence fluorophore unit, allowed sensing of target RNA and RNA-RBP interactions through changes in fluorescence intensity. We anticipate that this assay will open up new possibilities for meaningful studies of RNA-RBP interactions.

BACKGROUND: Recently, the project for improvement of water quality and preservation of the Yeongsan and Seomjin river basin was actively promoted. However, the publicity for many results of the project is not actively done, thus they are rarely used. Furthermore, there are not sufficient information about the projects preformed by other research institutions. Therefore, the watershed management system for efficient water management is needed in the Yeongsan and Seomjin river basin. CONCLUSION: Firstly, establishment of the Yeongsan and Seomjin river basin management research center, Secondly, construciton of wed-based water management research network. These results will serve as a basic data for efficient water management.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a GENESIS-BCP™ scaffold composed of hydroxyapatite (HAp) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) on bone formation. The relative ratio of components forming GENESIS-BCPTM was investigated by confirming the molar ratio of Ca/P through energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) analysis. The results being that the scaffold is comprised of 60% HAp and 40% β-TCP. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed a unique surface morphology similar to a soccer ball. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that the porosity, crystallinity, and Ca/P ratio were 65.5%, 84.9%, and 1.61%, respectively. In vitro tests including cytotoxicity and cell proliferation showed a good biocompatibility of GENESIS-BCP™. In vivo tests, including mouse skull test, and hematoxylin and eosin stains of GENESIS-BCP™ implanted in rabbit and human subjects showed that the bone graft is effective to accelerate new bone formation. It was concluded that GENESIS-BCP™ can be used as an effective alloplast bone graft.

We assessed the association among ultrasonographically detected non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (US-NAFLD), metabolic syndrome (MetS), and insulin resistance (IR) in non-obese, non-diabetic middle-aged adults, to find out whether US-NAFLD is independently associated with IR in this population.A total of 5,878 non-obese (body mass index, ≥ 18.5 and25), non-diabetic individuals were analyzed. IR was estimated with the homeostasis model assessment index (HOMA2-IR) and defined when HOMA2-IR ≥ 1.5. MetS was defined by the Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria.MetS was present in 381 (6.5%) participants, IR was present in 801 (13.6%) participants, and US-NAFLD was present in 1,611 (27.4%) participants. The increase in the prevalence of US-NAFLD closely followed the increase in the number of metabolic components diagnosed according to the ATP III criteria (15.2%, 28.5%, 48.0%, 65.7%, 71.4%, and 100% for 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 metabolic components, respectively, P0.001). US-NAFLD showed a significantly higher odds ratio (OR) for IR, regardless of the number of metabolic components (OR (95% confidence interval) of 3.48 (2.45-4.94), 3.63 (2.74-4.82), 3.19 (2.29-4.44), and 2.43 (1.43-3.81) for 0, 1, 2, and ≥ 3 metabolic components, respectively, P0.001 for all values). MetS showed a low sensitivity (0.22) for the identification of individuals with IR, and either US-NAFLD alone (0.60) or US-NAFLD with MetS (0.66) improved sensitivity with acceptable trade-off in specificity.US-NAFLD was an independent predictor for IR, irrespective of the number of metabolic components of MetS in the non-obese, non-diabetic middle-aged Asian adults. US-NAFLD could identify individuals with IR that cannot be identified by MetS in this population.

The objective of this study is to provide pollutant loads delivery ratio for flow duration in Oenam-cheon watershed, which is upstream watershed of Juam Lake. To calculate the delivery ratio by flow duration, rating curves and discharge-loads curves using measured data were established, then Flow Duration Curve(FDC) and pollutant loads delivery ratio curves were constructed. The results show that the delivery ratios for BOD5 for abundant flow(Q95), ordinary flow(Q185), low flow(Q275), and drought flow(Q355) were 23.9, 12.7, 7.1, and 2.9%, respectively. The delivery ratios of same flow regime for T-N were 58.4, 31.2, 17.2 and 7.1%, respectively. While, the delivery ratios T-P were 17.3, 7.5, 3.4, and 1.1% respectively. In general, delivery ratio of high flow condition showed higher value due to the influence of nonpoint source pollution. Based on the study results, generalized equations were developed for delivery ratio and discharge per unit area, which could be used for ungaged watershed with similar pollution sources.

To determine the optimal media conditions for the detection of the extracellular cellulase activity in Ganoderma neo-japonicum, we varied three media conditions: dye reagent, pH, and temperature. We evaluated the use of four dyes, Congo red, phenol red, remazol brilliant blue, and trypan blue. To observe the effect of pH on the chromogenic reaction, we tested media ranging from 4.5 to 8.0. To research the effect of temperature on the clear zone and the fungus growing zone, we tested temperatures ranging from 15 to 35℃. On the whole, the best protocol called for Ganoderma neo-japonicum transfer onto media containing Congo red with a pH of 7.0, followed by incubation at 25℃ for 5 days. Our results will be useful to researchers who study extracellular enzyme activity in Ganoderma neo-japonicum.

As more consumers shop online and prefer private label apparel products, the importance of private label apparel brand of Internet shopping malls are increasing. This study investigated consumer attitudes toward private label apparel brand of Internet shopping malls. Attitudes were conceptualized into two sub-factors: utilitarian and hedonic. Based on findings of prior studies, subjective norm and familiarity were included as antecedents to attitude variables. Purchase intention and word of mouth intention were also included as consequence variables of attitudes. Types of Online shopping malls were considered as moderating variable. For the empirical research, the Online survey was conducted. Young male and female consumers who have experience in Internet shopping of clothing products participated in the study. 429 questionnaire were used for the final statistical analysis. Results indicated that subjective norm had significant influence on consumer attitudes toward private label apparel brand. Familiarity however did not have significant influence on attitude variables for general internet shopping malls. For specialized Internet shopping malls, familiarity had significant influence only on hedonic attitude. Attitude variables had significant influence on purchase intention and word of mouth intention. Subjective norm and familiarity had significant influence on purchase intention and word of mouth intention.

Consumers have more choices for apparel products as e-shopping grows. This study examines the importance of apparel product attributes and classifies online apparel buyers into groups based on product attribute evaluation in various choice sets. For the empirical research, the online survey was conducted and Latent Gold Choice 4.0 was used for the choice-based conjoint analysis. Five consumer segments are found based on the choice selection of product attributes. The importance of product attributes (online shopping mall, brand, price, and style) and the preference of each product attribute level were different across segments. This research improves the knowledge of the purchasing behavior of online apparel buyers and provides proper attribute combinations of apparel e-shopping for each consumer segment.

As more and more consumers shop online, websites of fashion brands have become effective means for business activities. The Colors of web sites are the most effective visual elements for e-tailers to communicate with consumers. The purpose of this study is to compare websites created for local and global markets by men's apparel brands. The empirical study focused on differences of color application between the local and global websites. Fourteen brands were chosen for the study. The main color, sub color, and accent color were extracted according to the screen component ratios for each website. The colors were analyzed by Munsell's 10 Hues and 12 tone classifications of Practical Color Coordinate System. The Results indicated that all websites were using White as the main color. The local website used pale tones while global websites used dark tones. There was also differences in the use of sub colors and tones. Red was most used as the accent color in both local and global websites.

Electrospun chitosan (CTS) nanofibers have been well known for use as a wound dressing in the biomedical field. Nevertheless, fatal bacterial infections are still a serious problem when CTS nanofibers are used for wound treatment. In this study, we designed a novel wound dressing based on blending the chitosan with polyurethane (CTS/PU) containing silver sulfadiazine (AgSD) in order to enhance both antibacterial activity and mechanical strength. This fiber sheet was produced using the electrospinning (ELSP) technique. The CTS/PU containing AgSD fiber sheet was characterized by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). The physicochemical properties of the CTS/PU/AgSD fiber sheets were also characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The electrospun fibers were morphologically characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For an in vitro evaluation, the CTS/PU/AgSD fiber sheets were tested for their antibacterial activity against gram-negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The results indicate that CTS/PU/AgSD fiber sheets have strong antimicrobial activity as displayed by inhibition of bacterial growth and prevention of infection during the healing process. These results indicate that this material would be good for use as a wound dressing material.

The sewage treatment efficiency of hybrid constructed wetlands (CWs) was evaluated under different ventilation methods. The removal efficiencies of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) in the vertical flow( VF-) horizontal flow (HF) CWs using an electric fan air blower by the renewable energy of solar and wind power were higher than those by natural ventilation, excluding only suspended solids (SS). The TN treatment efficiency in the CW using the air blower especially increased rapidly by 16.6% in comparison with the CW employing natural ventilation, since the VF bed provided suitable conditions (aerobic) for nitrification to occur. The average removal efficiencies of BOD, SS, TN, and TP in the effluent were 98.8, 97.4, 58.0, and 48.3% in theCWusing an electric fan air blower, respectively. The treatment performance of the CWs under different ventilation methods was assessed, showing TN in the CW using an electric fan air blower to be reduced by 57.5 similar to 58.6% for inlet TN loading, whereas reduction by 19.0 similar to 53.3% was observed in the CW with natural ventilation. Therefore, to increase the removal of nutrients in CWs, an improved ventilation system, providing ventilation via an electric fan air blower with the renewable energy, is recommended.

Ganoderma neo-japonicum, which is also known as black lingshi mushroom and medicinal mushroom. Present experiments were conducted to determine the possibility of artificial culture with oak sawdust of G. neo-japonicum. The duration of mycelial growth and days of pinhead formation of oak sawdust bag (2.4 kg) were 28~35 days and 25~29 days, respectively. The yield of mushroom fresh fruitbody was 135~157 g.

Gardner syndrome is known as a variant of familial adenomatous polyposis. This syndrome is characterized by multiple intestinal polyposes, osteomas, and epidermoid cysts. In addition, dental abnormalities include an increased frequency of multiple odontomas, as well as supernumerary and impacted teeth. The authors report the case of a 7-year-old male patient with Gardner syndrome. Radiographic findings revealed multiple osteomas in both sides of the maxilla, multiple diffuse enostoses in both jaws, and a complex odontoma in the left mandibular body. Two years later, multiple epidermoid cysts on the scalp were found. Since this patient was suspected to have Gardner syndrome, the authors recommended gastrointestinal endoscopy to check for intestinal polyposis. Gastrointestinal endoscopic examination revealed multiple polyposes in the upper gastrointestinal tract and fundus of the stomach. As a result, the final diagnosis was Gardner syndrome.

Entecavir (BaracludeⓇ) is an oral antiviral drug used for the treatment of HBV. Entecavir is a reverse transcriptase inhibitor which prevents the HBV from multiplying. Most common adverse reactions caused by entecavir are headache, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Until now, there has been no report of peripheral neuropathy as a side effect associated with entecavir treatment. Herein, we report a case of peripheral neuropathy which probably occurred after treatment with entecavir in a hepatitis B patient. The possibility of the occurrence of this side effect should be carefully taken into consideration when a patient takes a high dose of entecavir for a long period of time or has risk factors for neuropathy at the time of initiating entecavir therapy. (Korean J Gastroenterol 2016;67:216-219)

Bone is a dynamic organ that is constantly being remodeled to maintain a healthy skeleton. Bone preserves skeletal composition, structural integrity and regulates mineral homeostasis for a lifetime. Bone has three important functions: first, it provides support and sites of attachment for muscles, secondly, it protects vital organs such as bone marrow and brain, and it acts as a metabolic organ with major reserves of calcium and phosphate.(Feng & McDonald, 2011)1 Bone tissue is a mineralized organic structure mostly composed of collagenous fibers and calcium phosphate in the form of hydroxyapatite (HAp), with embedded cell components like osteoblasts and osteoclasts. For bone tissue regeneration, there are many studies on bone tissue regeneration with unlimited application and without the risk of disease transmission using the tissue-engineered scaffolds. There are many natural (collagen, gelatin, chitosan, and hyaluronic acid), synthetic biodegradable [poly(┙hydroxyacids), poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), poly(lactic acid) (PLA), and poly(lactic acid-coglycolic acid) (PLGA)] polymers, and bioceramics (bioglass, tri-calcium phosphate, and hydroxyapatite). To design scaffolds for bone regeneration, osteoconductive and osteoinductive properties, as well as non-cytotoxicity and osteogenic differentiation ambience, must be provided. Among various fabrication methods for tissue engineering scaffolds, electrospinning (ELSP) has been used to produce nonwoven, porous, nano to micro scale fibrous scaffolds. A range of novel materials and processing tools have been developed to mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) for potential applications as tissue engineering scaffolds and ultimately to restore degenerated functions of the tissue. These electrospun-nanofibers have attracted considerable interest in tissue regeneration, including bone reconstruction. In order to provide some kind of function to the nanofibers, drugs, peptides, or growth factors have been loaded into the sheets. Recently, hybrid/composite nanofibers using biodegradable polymers, bioactive inorganic materials that could supply suitable mechanical properties and bioactives for progenitor/stem cells have been produced.(figure 1) (Seong et al., 2010)2

Background/Aims Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an easily available, low-cost screening tool for detecting silent chronic liver disease. Recent studies have suggested that the currently accepted healthy ALT thresholds be lowered. Methods In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we determined upper thresholds for ALT values in a nationally representative healthy cohort (n = 3337) from the Fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES IV). Sensitivity and specificity of the currently used ALT threshold (40 IU/L, regardless of gender) was compared against study-derived, gender-specific ALT thresholds for detecting individuals at risk for chronic liver disease in 27 913 health check-up participants. Results The 95th percentile levels for ALT in healthy weight, metabolically normal, liver disease-free KNHANES participants were 34 IU/L for men and 25 IU/L for women. The prevalence of ALT elevation among health check-up participants was 11.0% in currently used thresholds, and increased to 22.6% with study-derived, gender-specific thresholds. Of the population who were additionally defined to have elevated ALT levels under new ALT threshold, 65.7% were at risk for chronic liver disease. Sensitivity for detecting individuals at risk for chronic liver disease improved from 18 to 33% with new thresholds whereas a trade-off in specificity (from 96 to 88%) was observed. Conclusions It is recommendable to lower the current ALT thresholds to better identify individuals at risk for chronic liver disease.

The ability of Ganoderma to produce extracellular enzymes, including β-glucosidase, cellulase, avicelase, pectinase, xylanase, protease, amylase, and ligninase was tested in chromogenic media. β-glucosidase showed the highest activity, among the eight tested enzymes. In particular, Ganoderma neo-japonicum showed significantly stronger activity for β-glucosidase than that of the other enzymes. Two Ganoderma lucidum isolates showed moderate activity for avicelase; however, Ganoderma neo-japonicum showed the strongest activity. Moderate ligninase activity was only observed in Ganoderma neo-japonicum. In contrast, pectinase, amylase, protease, and cellulase were not present in Ganoderma. The results show that the degree of activity of the tested enzymes varied depending on the Ganoderma species tested.

Intestinal malrotation is a developmental anomaly resulting from embryologic failure of fixation and rotation of the gut and predisposed to midgut vovulus and small bowel obstruction. Although various forms of malrotation anomalies in the gut can occur, nonrotation of prearterial segment with the initial symptomatic presentation at advanced age has been rarely reported. Here, we report a case of nonrotation of the prearterial segment of the midgut presenting with duodenal obstruction in a 60-year-old man. To our best knowledge, this is the first case reported about nonrotation of prearterial segment of the midgut in Korea.

Intramural duodenal hematoma is an uncommon condition, which usually develops after blunt abdominal trauma. It is also reported as a complication of anticoagulant therapy, blood dyscrasia, pancreatic disease, and diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy. The typical clinical pictures of intramural duodenal hematoma consist of upper abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, and hematochezia, and it is rarely accompanied by intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, and pancreatitis as its complication. We report a case of intramural duodenal hematoma extended to peritoneal cavity, and accompanied by acute pancreatitis following therapeutic endoscopy for duodenal ulcer bleeding in a 32-year-old man who was on maintenance of anti-coagulation therapy after valvular heart surgery.

Black esophagus is a rare condition of the esophagus that manifests as endoscopic findings of black-colored esophageal mucosa, which is usually caused by acute esophageal necrosis. We report a case of alcoholic patient who developed black esophagus. The 85-year-old man was admitted to Severance Hospital due to copious hematemesis over 2 days. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed black-colored mucosa in the distal esophagus. Endoscopic biopsies of the esophagus revealed necrotic tissue, without any viable cells. Follow-up upper gastrointestinal endoscopy performed after supportive care with a proton-pump inhibitor, sucralfate, and total parenteral nutrition resulted in the remarkable healing of the esophageal wall with no complications.

The purpose of the study was to assess the mediating effects of institution trust and activity commitment between youth institution satisfaction and activity competence. First, there was a significantly positive correlation among institution trust and activity commitment between the youth institution satisfaction and activity competence. Second, satisfaction with the youth training institution can have indirect effects on youth activity, competence through trust in the youth institution, or youth commitment to activity, though not having a direct effect on youth activity competence.

The desmoplastic variant of ameloblastoma is a rare form of ameloblastoma characterized by unique radiographic and histologic features. A 46-year-old female was referred to our hospital, complaining of swelling in the left upper lip area. Radiographic findings revealed an ill-defined multilocular lesion with a large cystic lesion and thick sclerotic trabeculae on the left anterior maxilla. After the patient underwent partial osteotomy, histologic analysis revealed a desmoplastic ameloblastoma with no evidence of a hybrid lesion or cyst formation. The radiographic findings in the present case were different from those described in previous case reports. These findings are of special importance due to the unfamiliar radiographic and histologic features of this lesion.

Purpose: This study was performed to evaluate the relationship between anterior disc displacement and effusion in temporomandibular disorder (TMD) patients using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods: The study subjects included 253 TMD patients. MRI examinations were performed using a 1.5 T MRI scanner. T1- and T2-weighted images with para-sagittal and para-coronal images were obtained. According to the MRI findings, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disc positions were divided into 3 subgroups: normal, anterior disc displacement with reduction (DWR), and anterior disc displacement without reduction (DWOR). The cases of effusion were divided into 4 groups: normal, mild (E1), moderate (E2), and marked effusion (E3). Statistical analysis was made by the Fisher’s exact test using SPSS (version 12.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results: The subjects consisted of 62 males and 191 females with a mean age of 28.5 years. Of the 253 patients, T1and T2-weighted images revealed 34 (13.4%) normal, DWR in 103 (40.7%), and DWOR in 116 (45.9%) on the right side and 37 (14.6%) normal, DWR in 94 (37.2%), and DWOR in 122 (48.2%) joints on the left side. Also, T2-images revealed 82 (32.4%) normal, 78 (30.8%) E1, 51 (20.2%) E2, and 42 (16.6%) E3 joints on the right side and 79 (31.2%) normal, 85 (33.6%) E1, 57 (22.5%) E2, and 32 (12.7%) E3 on the left side. There was no difference between the right and left side. Conclusion: Anterior disc displacement was not related to the MRI findings of effusion in TMD patients (P¤0.05). (Imaging Sci Dent 2013; 43 : 245-51)

골육종의 위장관 전이는 매우 드물다. 그러나 보조적 항암치료의 도입 이후 골육종의 위장관 전이가 보고되고 있는데 그 중에서도 위전이는 전 세계적으로 3예만 보고되었고 국내에서는 보고된 바가 없다. 또한 수술과 함께 보조적 항암치료를 받은 골육종 환자에서 치료 종료 후 오랜 기간이지난 후에 발생한 지연성 재발이 보고되고 있다. 따라서 오래 전에 항암치료를 포함한 골육종 치료를 받은 환자에서 혈변이나 흑변과 같은 위장관 증상이 새로이 발생했을 때, 치료 후 장기간 동안 재발이 없었다 하더라도 골육종의 위장관 전이 가능성을 고려해야 할 것이다. 저자들은 대퇴부 골육종을 진단받고 수술 및 항암치료 후 11년간 재발이 없었던 환자에서 발생한 위전이 재발의 증례를 문헌고찰과 함께 보고하는 바이다.

Malignant melanoma has a very high propensity to metastasize to the heart. However, melanoma may sometimes present as a metastatic lesion in the absence of a primary lesion, which are called melanomas of unknown primary origin. We report a case in which a patient presented with a metastatic maligant melanoma in the right atrium with pericardial effusion and without a primary origin.

Most ingested foreign bodies pass through the gastrointestinal tract uneventfully within 1 week of ingestion, and so gastrointestinal tract perforation is rare, occurring in less than 1% of patients. The occurrence of a pancreas penetration secondary to foreign-body perforation is even rarer. Here we report two cases of foreign-body penetration of the gastrointestinal tract extending into the pancreas and retroperitoneum. The findings of these cases serve to remind all clinicians that the diagnosis of a foreign-body perforation should always be kept in mind in a patient with abdominal symptoms, and physicians should endeavor to determine the history of ingestion and be aware of foreign bodies in CT scans. (Korean J Med 2012;82:718-723)

Purpose: This study was performed to evaluate the trabecular pattern on panoramic radiographs to predict agerelated osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Materials and Methods: Thirty-one postmenopausal osteoporotic women and 25 postmenopausal healthy women between the ages of 50 and 88 were enrolled in this study. The bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar vertebrae and femur were calculated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and panoramic radiographs were obtained. Fractal dimension (FD) was measured using the box counting method from 560 regions of interest (51×51 pixels) in 6 sites on the panoramic radiographs. The relationships between age and BMD and between FD and BMD were assessed, and the intraobserver agreement was determined. Results: There was a significant difference in the FD values between the osteoporotic and normal groups (p⁄0.05). There was a significant difference in the FD values at three sites in the jaws (p⁄0.05). Age was significantly correlated with the BMD measurements, with an odds ratio of 1.25. However, the FD values were not significantly correlated with the BMD measurements, with an odds ratio of 0.000. The intraobserver agreement showed relatively higher correlation coefficients at the upper premolar, lower premolar, and lower anterior regions than the other sites. Conclusion: Age was an important risk factor for predicting the presence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. The lower premolar region was the most appropriate site for evaluating the FD value on panoramic radiographs. However, further investigation might be needed to predict osteoporosis using an FD value on panoramic radiographs. (Imaging Sci Dent 2012; 42 : 231-5)