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This study was intended to explore the experiences of social workers in Community Welfare Centres for People with Disabilities (CWCPDs) to understand their practices and challenges during COVID-19. It considered the essential role that CWCPD social workers play in responding to ‘new normal’ settings. Zoom interviews were conducted with twenty supervisory and manager-level social workers of CWCPDs nationwide. This study showed the unexpected cross-regional nature of risks and burdens. The high level of uncertainty and complexity allowed for the centres to operate safely under the COVID-19 legislation and for them to change and deliver alternative service provisions. Social workers had to develop new ways to deal with unprecedented risks, challenges, and dilemmas within ‘the new normal’. COVID-19 means that centres must recalibrate their relationships with service users, communities and the government. CWCPDs need to change their service provision model from a large group-centred to a person-centred model to meet individual demands. Changes are needed in terms of clarity of communication, the application of step-by-step guidelines to service provisions and a shift away from an exclusive focus on quantitative performance needs in how centres are evaluated. In all these processes, both close cooperation and support from local authorities are needed.

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced social inequality in marginalized groups. People with disabilities (PWD) are particularly restricted in their activities and lives due to the pandemic and experiencing more difficulties than the general population. Objective This study aims to explore the extent of the digital divide between PWD and people without disabilities (PWOD) during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. Methods This study relied on the cross-sectional secondary data from the 2020 Digital Divide Survey conducted in Korea. We performed a series of bivariate analyses on the data of 5575 PWOD and 1781 PWD (18–69 years old) to compare Internet usage and various types of digital services related to the pandemic. Results We identified significant differences between PWOD and PWD in their Internet usage change during the pandemic. A higher number of PWD reported that their Internet usage with both computers and mobile devices remained similar to the pre-pandemic period while that of PWOD reported that their Internet usage via the same has increased. Significant gaps were found in the usage change of the five digital services with the largest gap in that of social networking services between PWOD and PWD. Further, PWOD were likelier to be aware of, utilize, and perceive the usefulness of digital services during the COVID-19 pandemic including application, information, delivery, and subscription services. Conclusion To ensure better post-pandemic outcomes for marginalized groups including PWD, the governments and authority agencies must facilitate digital access and services with appropriate accommodations needed by those populations.

Previous studies have shown that participation in social networking sites (SNSs) enhances users’ knowledge, social capital, and quality of life. However, people with intellectual developmental disabilities (PIDD) do not use SNSs to the same extent as the general population does. This study aimed to explore the experiences of those PIDD in South Korea who use social media. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 20 PIDD. The study participants reported benefits associated with the use of SNSs, which included enhanced social capital, self-confidence, and positive self-image. Participants also used SNSs to maintain friendships, initiate new relationships, and engage in self and community advocacy. Safety concerns were also reported by the participants. The study concluded that SNSs can be used as tools for promoting community inclusion and developing social capital for PIDD. However, the outcomes of using SNSs depend on the availability of support provided by one’s network. The absence of support may result in frustration and even exploitation. With effective support, SNSs become powerful tools that can be used by PIDD to combat social isolation through creating ample opportunities for social inclusion.

This study analyzed life after injury for burn survivors using the photovoice research method. Study participants were six burn survivors who lived in the community after being discharged from the hospital. These six participants engaged in a series of photovoice workshops and activities that took place over a period of 4 months. The study results were as follows: burn survivors were able to achieve a positive body image during their physical recovery. They overcame many psychological difficulties that accompanied their burn injuries. Their attitudes toward their lives changed positively. The greatest influence in bringing out these changes was support from family, friends, and other burn survivors. They were better able to fight against social oppression with their recovered self-esteem. The participants had experienced a disconnect from the activities and interpersonal relationships they had prior to their injury owing to long-term hospital stays and time away from work. However, as they began new social activities, they were able to establish new interpersonal relationships. Based on the research results, this study suggests that medical, psychological, and social approaches as well as positive changes in social attitude are necessary to support burn survivors’ recovery.

This study aims to explore the psychosocial experiences of the ageing of middle-aged people with intellectual disabilities in Korea. Data were collected through 28 face-to-face interviews with Korean individuals with intellectual disabilities, aged between 40 and 50. This study identified several key factors faced by middle-aged people with intellectual disabilities. First, they experience financial constraints due to a lack of economic self-determination. Second, they have a very narrow range of social connections. Typically, they have small and weak networks consisting of only a few social workers, personal assistants, or group home workers, or their peers at group home or workshops. This is often due to a lack of information, money, and age-appropriate services. Third, those who have jobs in middle age have positive opportunities acquired through work. Fourth, study participants experienced considerable unspecified anxiety about ageing, as well as fear of death and uncertainty regarding the future. Recommendations are made to improve active ageing in an appropriate setting for middle-aged people with intellectual disabilities. Improved training and education about economic self-determination are needed for these individuals and their families, as well as improved information about community services. Moreover, enhanced community services for them must be developed. These individuals would benefit from improved employment opportunities as well. Workshops regarding active ageing and death should be developed. Finally, future plans for living placement must be in place.

In South Korea, disability and immigration are hidden and invisible phenomena. This article examines how immigrant mothers experience the intersection of immigrant status and mothering a disabled child. Through semi-structured interviews with 16 immigrant mothers, this study found that the values of Confucian familism regarding motherhood and gender roles influenced how these immigrant mothers behaved. The study also found that immigrant mothers faced multiple forms of stigma and discrimination as a result of negative socio-cultural views of disability and immigration. Therefore, the article suggests a need for inter-professional, anti-oppression work strategies to support immigrant mothers of disabled children, along with education for social workers about these issues.

The present study compared meaning-making coping among cancer patients in Sweden and South Korea, with a focus on the sociocultural context. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 51 Swedes and 33 Koreans. The results showed significant differences between the two countries as well as similarities in existential, spiritual, and religious coping. For example, Swedes primarily used meaning-making coping as a means of meditation or relaxation, whereas Koreans relied on coping with prayer and using healthy foods as a means to survive. The present study confirms the significance of investigating cultural context when we explore the use of meaning-making coping among people who have experienced cancer. Meaning-making coping

본 연구는 장애인 거주시설의 성격을 규명하고 거주시설을 이용하는 장애인의 사회접 배제를 방지하기 위해 복지권과 돌봄의 윤리 관점에서 거주시설 개선 방안을 제안하는 것을 목적으로 한다. 우리나라 장애인 거주시설의 주요한 특성으로는 집단성, 격리성, 권력불평등성, 비선택성을 지적하였으며, 이를 위해서는 돌봄의 윤리와 복지권의 관점에서 보충성의 원칙, 정상화의 원칙, 신뢰의 원칙, 개별성의 원칙에 따라 거주시설이 운영되어야 함을 제시하였다. 또한 이를 실현하기 위한 정부의 과제로는 서비스신청권을 통한 일괄 조사, 시설의 소규모화와 지역사회 배치, 사례관리(개별지원)의 체계화, 서비스 제공과정의 구조화 등을 제시하였고, 시설운영자의 과제로서는 시설사회화의 노력 강화, 이용자 참여의 활성화를 제시하였다.

†† † † † , † † ‡ ‡ † ‡ Background/Aims: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD), a new and potentially curative method for treating gastrointestinal neoplasms, may have longer procedure time and the risk of complications when compared to conventional endoscopic mucosal resection. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of ESD in patients with comorbid diseases. Methods: The outcomes of 337 patients who underwent ESD for early gastric cancer at Samsung Medical Center from April 2003 to December 2006 were analyzed retrospectively. The Charlson comorbidity scale was used to divide the patients into low-risk (no risk factor) and high-risk (at least one risk factor) groups. The outcomes and complications were compared between the high-and low- risk groups. Results: The low- and high-risk groups comprised 240 and 97 patients with mean ages of 61.1 and 64.7 years, respectively (p=0.002). Tumor location, tumor size, depth of invasion, procedure duration, and rates of en bloc resection, complete resection, complication, and recurrence did not differ significantly between the two groups (p＞0.05). Conclusions: ESD may be a safe and effective treatment for early gastric cancer in patients with comorbid diseases. (Gut Liver 2010;4:186191)

본 연구는 국내 사회복지실천 현장에서 현재 실제로 이루어지고 있는 강점관점과 지역사회네트워크를 기반으로 하는 통합적 사례관리의 구체적인 실천방법이 무엇인지 알아보고자 시도되었다. 이를 위하여 통합적 사례관리를 전문적으로 실천하고 있는 우리아이 희망네트워크 실무자들이 아동을 대상으로 수행하고 있는 강점관점 사례관리의 실천지혜를 귀납적으로 구조화시키고자 하였다. 이들 실천가들의 표현을 통해 구체적인 강점관점 사례관리 실천방법을 수집하여 통계적으로 분석하여 분류하고, 이 결과를 연구 참여자들과 함께 해석하여 개념을 부여하였다. 이들의 실천방법은 "아동가족과 일하기", "아동가족과 관계맺기", "지역사회와 일하기", "팀워크 강화하기", "사례관리 능력을 강화하기", "탄력적으로 운영하기" 등 크게 6가지로 구분되었다. 아동을 대상으로 하는 실천현장에서 이루어지고 있는 강점관점 사례관리의 핵심적인 방법은 3가지로, 아동가족을 대하는 방법, 아동가족과 관계 맺는 방법 그리고 지역사회와 일하는 방법 등이다. 본 연구의 참여자들은 강점관점 사례관리를 함에 있어서 실천가의 사례관리 능력이 가장 중요한 것으로 인식하고 있었으며, 동시에 이의 실현 가능성은 매우 낮을 것으로 기대하고 있었다. 이는 실천가들이 자신들의 사례관리 실천 능력에 만족하고 있지 못하며 현장에서 사례관리자로서 능력의 한계를 경험하고 있는 것으로 해석된다. 따라서 강점관점 사례관리자들이 자신들의 능력을 제고할 수 있는 교육 ? 훈련의 기회를 보다 더 다양하게 제공해야 할 필요가 있으며, 아울러 실천가들이 이론적인 강점관점 사례관리 실천에 대한 강박감을 줄일 수 있도록 통합적 사례관리 실천의 best practice 상(像)에 현장의 실천지혜를 반영하는 것이 타당할 것이다.

In 2009 the Ministry of Health and Society reported a new milestone in longevity among people living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA): An individual was reported to be living and healthy after 24 years with HIV/AIDS. Today, PLWHA who receive treatment are more likely to die as a result of cancer or cardiov...

Hyperuricemia is associated with hypertension, metabolic syndrome, preeclampsia, cardio-vascular disease and renal disease, all conditions associated with oxidative stress. We hypothesized that uric acid, a known antioxidant, might become prooxidative following its reaction with oxidants; and, thereby contribute to the pathogenesis of these diseases. Uric acid and 1,3-(15)N(2)-uric acid were reacted with peroxynitrite in different buffers and in the presence of alcohols, antioxidants and in human plasma. The reaction products were identified using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analyses. The reactions generate reactive intermediates that yielded triuret as their final product. We also found that the antioxidant, ascorbate, could partially prevent this reaction. Whereas triuret was preferentially generated by the reactions in aqueous buffers, when uric acid or 1,3-(15)N(2)-uric acid was reacted with peroxynitrite in the presence of alcohols, it yielded alkylated alcohols as the final product. By extension, this reaction can alkylate other biomolecules containing OH groups and others containing labile hydrogens. Triuret was also found to be elevated in the urine of subjects with preeclampsia, a pregnancy-specific hypertensive syndrome that is associated with oxidative stress, whereas very little triuret is produced in normal healthy volunteers. We conclude that under conditions of oxidative stress, uric acid can form reactive intermediates, including potential alkylating species, by reacting with peroxynitrite. These reactive intermediates could possibly explain how uric acid contributes to the pathogenesis of diseases such as the metabolic syndrome and hypertension.

Increased consumption of fructose may play an important role in the epidemic of metabolic syndrome and may presage the development of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. Once in the cell, fructose is phosphorylated by ketohexokinase (KHK), leading to consumption of ATP, formation of AMP, and generation of uric acid through xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR). This study aimed to examine the direct effects of fructose in human kidney proximal tubular cells (HK-2) and whether they are mediated by the fructose metabolism via KHK. At a similar concentration to that observed in peripheral blood after a meal, fructose induced production of monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) and reactive oxygen species in HK-2 cells. Knockdown of KHK by stable transfection with small hairpin RNA demonstrated that these processes were KHK dependent. Several antioxidants, including specific inhibitors of NADPH oxidase and XOR, prevented MCP-1 secretion. We detected XOR mRNA in HK-2 cells and confirmed its activity by identifying uric acid by mass spectrometry. Fructose increased intracellular uric acid, and uric acid induced production of MCP-1 as well. In summary, postprandial concentrations of fructose stimulate redox- and urate-dependent inflammatory mediators in proximal tubular cells.

The 1980 identification of nitric oxide (NO) as an endothelial cell-derived relaxing factor resulted in an unprecedented biomedical research of NO and established NO as one of the most important cardiovascular, nervous and immune system regulatory molecule. A reduction in endothelial cell NO levels leading to “endothelial dysfunction” has been identified as a key pathogenic event preceding the development of hypertension, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. The reduction in endothelial NO in cardiovascular disease has been attributed to the action of oxidants that either directly react with NO or uncouple its substrate enzyme. In this report, we demonstrate that uric acid (UA), the most abundant antioxidant in plasma, reacts directly with NO in a rapid irreversible reaction resulting in the formation of 6-aminouracil and depletion of NO. We further show that this reaction occurs preferentially with NO even in the presence of oxidants peroxynitrite and hydrogen peroxide and that the reaction is at least partially blocked by glutathione. This study shows a potential mechanism by which UA may deplete NO and cause endothelial dysfunction, particularly under conditions of oxidative stress in which UA is elevated and intracellular glutathione is depleted.

The solute carrier family 11 member 1 (SLC11A1) protein plays important roles in macrophage activation and displays pleiotropic effects on various macrophage functions, including the regulation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), and oxidative burst. Considering the important roles of macrophage in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), we hypothesized that the SLC11A1 gene may act as a low-penetrance susceptibility gene for COPD. To test this hypothesis, we first examined the frequencies of 12 candidate polymorphisms in the SLC11A1 gene in 27 healthy Korean individuals, and then genotyped 3 haplotype-tagging polymorphisms [IVS4 + 14GC (rs3731865), D543 N (rs17235409), and (*)86AG (rs1059823)] in 83 COPD patients and 203 healthy controls. Individuals with at least one variant allele of the D543 N and (*)86AG polymorphisms were at a significantly increased risk for COPD compared with carriers with each homozygous wild-type allele [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 2.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.24-4.02, P = 0.007; and adjusted OR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.10-3.35, P = 0.022, respectively]. Consistent with the findings of the genotyping analysis, the 122 haplotype carrying both the 543 N and (*)86G alleles was associated with a significantly increased risk for COPD compared with the 111 haplotype with the 542D and (*)86A alleles (adjusted OR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.19-3.51, P = 0.009 and Bonferroni corrected P = 0.027). These findings suggest that the SLC11A1 polymorphisms could be used as markers for genetic susceptibility to COPD. However, further studies with large numbers of subjects are needed to confirm our findings.

Polymorphisms in the DNA repair genes may be associated with differences in the capacity to repair DNA damage, and so this can influence an individual's susceptibility to lung cancer. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the association of hMSH2 −118T>C, IVS1+9G>C, IVS10+12A>G, and IVS12−6T>C genotypes and their haplotypes with the risk of lung cancer in a Korean population. The hMSH2 genotypes were determined in 432 lung cancer patients and in 432 healthy controls who were frequency matched for age and gender. The hMSH2 haplotypes were estimated based on a Bayesian algorithm using the Phase program. The presence of at least one IVS10+12G allele was associated with a significantly decreased risk of adenocarcinoma, as compared with the IVS10+12AA genotype [adjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.59; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.40-0.88; P = 0.01], and the presence of at least one IVS12-6C allele was associated with a significantly increased risk of adenocarcinoma, as compared with the IVS12-6TT genotype (adjusted OR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.02-2.27; P = 0.04). Consistent with the results of the genotyping analysis, the TGGT haplotype with no risk allele was associated with a significantly decreased risk of adenocarcinoma, as compared with the TCAC haplotype with two risk allele [i.e., IVS10+12A and IVS12-6C allele; adjusted OR, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.30-0.78; P = 0.003 and Pc (Bonferroni corrected P value) = 0.012]. The effect of the hMSH2 haplotypes on the risk of adenocarcinoma was statistically significant in the never smokers and younger individuals (adjusted OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.27-0.75; P = 0.002 and Pc = 0.004; and adjusted OR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.23-0.85; P = 0.014 and Pc = 0.028, respectively) but not in the ever-smokers and older individuals. These results suggest that the hMSH2 polymorphisms and their haplotypes may be an important genetic determinant of adenocarcinoma of the lung, particularly in never smokers. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(4):762–8)

The amphiphilic hyperbranched poly(dimethylsiloxane) (HPDMS) bearing dimethylamine groups on the terminal position was synthesized and characterized. The obtained polymer exhibited low viscosity, and good solubility in ether, THF, and acidic aqueous solution. In the acidic aqueous polymer solution, UV-vis absorption and photo luminescence of water-insoluble chromic compounds such as diphenylhexatriene were measured in order to investigate solvating power of hyperbranched poly(dimethylsiloxane)s. It has turned out from the UV absorbance data that a HPDMS solubilized about five molecules of 1,6-diphenylhexatriene.

Hyperbranched poly(dimethylsiloxane)s (HPDMSs) were synthesized by the self polycondensation of an AB2 monomer, [bis(diethylaminodimethylsiloxy)methylsiloxy]dimethylsilanol that was generated in situ from a precursor compound, [bis(phenyldimethylsiloxy)methylsiloxy]dimethylsilanol, with bromine and diethylamine. The polymerization was carried out at 80°C without any catalysts. The molecular weight (Mw) of HPDMSs increased with elapsing of the reaction time from 5700 to 11500, where HPDMSs turned from liquid to solid with increasing Mw. HPDMSs with lower Mw showed good solubility from nonpolar solvents to methanol, while higher Mw ones dissolved in ethyl ether and tetrahydrofurane. Dimethylphenylsilyl group was introduced as an end group by adding dimethylphenylsilanol at the end of the polymerization. As the end silane-phenyl bond is cleaved with irradiation of UV light, the properties of HPDMSs with phenylsilyl end group such as viscosity, solubility and Tg were changed after UV irradiation.

We calculate the theoretical line profiles in order to investigate the influence of various velocity parameters. Line profiles are calculated by using the exponential velocoty law with two acceleration regions for orbital phases 0.70 and 0.06. From this compttation we find that the influence of the wind velocity gradient on a giant star is more important in the region near the star than in the region away from the star. The observed lines show stronger emission than the calculated line profiles and we interpret the difference is caused by the inhomogeniety in the atmosphere of 32 Cyg.

We calculated line profiles of 32 Cyg with an assumed stromgren sphere at orbital phases 0.06 and 0.78. The wind models with Alfven waves show diminished line profiles compared to those of the models using power velocity laws. The reduced density of absorbers in HII region produce weak profiles, but line profiles at phi=0.06 do not show the differences except in the red edge of absorption. At phi=0.78 however, we could reproduce the line profiles of Alfven waves model by the power law models with two velocity gradients. It suggests that the power law model with 2 acceleration regions could reduce the errors in the theoretical line formation with no consideration of wind acceleration mechanism.

Colony-stimulating factors (CSFs) are commonly used for the treatment of neutropenia following chemotherapy and for the mobilization of peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC). We recently experienced a rare case of a new onset of psoriasiform eruption by GM-CSF (granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor) which was exacerbated by G-CSF (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) in a patient with breast cancer. A 36-year-old woman had received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, epirubicin and 5-fluorouracil), modified radical mastectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy with paclitaxel and mitoxantrone followed by GM-CSF administration for the treatment of locally advanced breast cancer. She had developed a psoriatic skin lesion on face and both upper arms during leukocyte recovery in spite of no previous history of psoriasis. Next, the chemotherapy course was complicated by a flare of mild psoriatic skin lesion, although CSF was changed into G-CSF due to GM-CSF-associated psoriasis. Subsequently, she had had high-dose chemotherapy and autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation for consolidation therapy. GM-CSF was administered for the mobilization of PBSC and post-transplant period, but psoriatic skin lesion did not appear. During 6 months after PBSCT, psoriasiform eruption did not appear.

We have calculated the velocity distribution of wind driven by Alfvin waves. The assumed initial number density of wind can affect the line profiles because it produces the change in the velocity distribution under the mass conservation. Initial density N0 = 5.5 x 1012/cm3 is chosen for a proper initial density from the observation by Schroder(1986). The wind models for N0 = 109, 1010, 1011, 5.5 x 1012/cm3 are calculated at ©ª = 0.06 and ©ª = 0.78. The line profiles for lower initial density show the strong emissions and narrow absorptions because of their steeper velocity gradients.

We calculate the theoretical line profiles for 32 Cyg in order to investigate the influence of various velocity fields. Line profiles are calculated with wind accelerations driven by Alfven waves and described by velocity parameters. The results for Alfvenic wave model show weakened line profiles. For the orbital phases ¥÷=0.78 and ¥÷=0.06 the Alfvenic models show strong absorption part due to very low densities at the surface of the supergiant. Hence, we conclude the velocity gradient of the wind near the supergiant could influence on the theoretical line formation.

Plexiform angiomyxoid myofibroblastic tumor (PAMT) of the stomach is a very rare mesenchymal tumor of the gastrointestinal tract. We report a case of asymptomatic gastric PAMT that was pathologically confirmed after surgical resection. The tumor had a multinodular plexiform growth pattern, bland-looking spindle cells, and an Alcian blue-positive myxoid stromal matrix rich in small blood vessels. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that the tumor cells of the PAMT were positive for smooth muscle actin (SMA) and negative for c-kit, CD34, S-100 protein, epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), and desmin. PAMT should be differentiated from other submucosal tumors of the stomach by immunohistochemical findings. Considering the benign features of this tumor, observation without resection may be an option for the treatment of PAMT if the tumor is asymptomatic.

We calculated the wind velocities for 32 Cyg in order to understand how influence a damping length on the wind of supergiant driven by Alfven waves. Four cases, ¥ë = 0.9, 1.0, 5.0, the ratio of the damping length to the supergiant's radius, and the damping length increasing linearly with the distance from the star, were compared. The results showed the forces by forces by Alfven waves gave the major contribution to the wind velocity but the forces by the pressure and gravitation did little. The model for the damping length with the linear relation showed the rapid increase due to the short damping length with near the surface of the star.

The binary system AZ Cas consists of a main sequence star of B type and a late type and a late type supergaint with extended atmospheric. In other to present the effect of mass flow from the supergaint which fills its Roche lobe, line profiles were calculated at phaces 0.05 and 0.09 under different assumptions regarding the opacity parameter. Hempe's sobolev method(1982) for the source function was used in this paper. For the higher opacity parameter, the line profiles are shown to be stronger due to the higher number densities of absorbers. At phase 0.05, the line profiles have bumps at red end of absorption part, which can be explained by the reemission superimposed on the lline profile of absorption part.

The line profiles of 32 Cyg have been calculated by integrating the equation of transfer numerically. In order to determine the source function the two level atom and complete redistribution were assumed and Sobolev approximation was used. The peaks of line profiles for the phase 0.99 and 0.70 showed redshift and blueshift, respectively. The line profiles had dependence on the inclination of orbital plane. The result with small inclination showed higher flux of line profile.

The normalized line profiles of VV Cep have been calculated by integrating the equation of transfer. The Sobolev theory was adopted and the wind velocity distribution was assumed to be V(r)=V∞(1-Rc/r)^(1/2). The peaks of the line profiles for the phase 0.06 and 0.80 appear at near half maximum and zero velocity of the wind, respectively.

Peroxynitrite is a reactive oxidant produced in vivo in response to oxidative and other stress by the diffusion-limited reaction of nitric oxide and superoxide. This contribution is focused on the identification of free radical intermediates of uric acid formed during its reaction with peroxynitrite. The experimental approach included the ESR spin trapping of the radical generated from the reaction between uric acid and peroxynitrite at pH 7.4 and mass spectrometry studies of the trapped radicals. Using PBN (N-tert-butyl-α-phenylnitrone) as the spin trapping agent, a six-line ESR spectrum was obtained and its hyperfine coupling constants, a(N) = 15.6 G; and a(H) = 4.4 G, revealed the presence of carbon-based radicals. Further structural identification of the PBN-radical adducts was carried out using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. After comparison with the control reactions, two species were identified corresponding to the protonated molecules (M+1) at m/z 352 and 223, respectively. The ions of m/z 352 were characterized as the PBN-triuretcarbonyl radical adduct and the m/z 223 ion was identified as the PBN-aminocarbonyl radical adduct. Their mechanism of formation is discussed.

Uric acid (UA) is known to be a major biological antioxidant in plasma. However, there is a strong correlation between UA levels and cardiovascular risk. Recent studies suggest that in the intracellular environment, UA can become a prooxidant that causes endothelial dysfunction. For conducting detailed studies of UA's role in human pathogenesis, there is a critical need for a sensitive and specific method for the determination of intracellular UA levels. We therefore developed a simple, sensitive method for determination of trace amounts of intracellular UA, as well as comparatively large amounts of UA in plasma and urine (for the determination of extracellular concentrations of UA), based on liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). UA was separated from interferences by HPLC and quantified by mass spectrometry in the negative ESI mode using single reaction monitoring (SRM). For the identification and quantification of UA, the parent ions selected were m/z 167.0, which corresponds to the urate anion, and m/z 169.0, which corresponds to the 1,3-(15)N(2)-UA anion. 1,3-(15)N(2)-UA is used as an internal standard to ensure accuracy of the measurement. After precipitation of proteins with 10% TCA solution, UA was subjected to LC-MS/MS analysis. The correlation coefficient was 0.9998-1.0000 based on the calibration curve. The intra- and inter-day precision (C.V. %) ranged from 0.01 to 3.07 and 0.01 to 3.68 for in vivo and in vitro systems, respectively. Recovery tests of added standards have been successfully performed and the values ranged from 90.10 to 103.59% and 98.74 to 106.12% for in vivo and in vitro analyses, respectively. This study demonstrates that intracellular levels of UA can be measured using LC-MS/MS with isotope labeled UA as an internal standard.

31 Cyg is a ζ Aur-type eclipsing long-period binary composed a K supergiant and a hot main sequence star. Superginats have massive cool winds with low terminal velocities, and it is generally believed that supergiant's winds are driven by Alfven waves. We have calculated the wind velocities for 31 Cyg by integrating of equation of motion due to Alfven waves and the results are agreed with observational terminal velocities. And our results are compared to Kuin and Ahmad's semiempirical wind model (1989).

Uric acid (UA) can be directly converted to allantoin enzymatically by uricase in most mammals except humans or by reaction with superoxide. UA can react directly with nitric oxide to generate 6-aminouracil and with peroxynitrite to yield triuret; both of these metabolites have been identified in biological samples. We now report a validated high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of these urinary UA metabolites. Urine samples were diluted 10-fold, filtered and directly injected onto HPLC for LC-MS/MS analysis. The urinary metabolites of UA were separated using gradient HPLC. Identification and quantification of UA urinary metabolites was performed with electrospray in positive ion mode by selected-reaction monitoring (SRM). Correlation coefficients were 0.991-0.999 from the calibration curve. The intra- and inter-day precision (R.S.D., %) of the metabolites ranged from 0.5% to 13.4% and 2.5-12.2%, respectively. In normal individuals (n=21), urinary allantoin, 6-aminouracil and triuret, were 15.30 (+/-8.96), 0.22 (+/-0.12), and 0.12 (+/-0.10) microg/mg of urinary creatinine (mean (+/-S.D.)), respectively. The new method was used to show that smoking, which can induce oxidative stress, is associated with elevated triuret levels in urine. Thus, the method may be helpful in identifying pathways of oxidative stress in biological samples.

BackgroundPolymorphisms in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) gene may influence EGFR production and/or activity, thereby modulating susceptibility to lung cancer. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the association between polymorphisms in theEGFRgene and the risk of lung cancer in a Korean population.MethodsWe first examined the frequencies of 39 candidate polymorphisms in theEGFRgene in 27 healthy Korean individuals. After then, we genotyped five polymorphisms (127378C>T, 142285G>A, 162093G>A, 181946C>T and 187114T>C) that have variant allele frequencies greater than 10%, in 582 lung cancer patients and in 582 healthy controls.ResultsOf the 5 polymorphisms, the 181946C>T genotype distribution was significantly different between the cases and controls (P= 0.04). Compared with the 181946 CC + CT genotype, the 181946 TT genotype was associated with a significantly decreased risk of lung cancer (adjusted OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.45–0.88,P= 0.007). When the analyses were stratified by smoking status, the protective effect of the TT genotype was statistically significant in ever-smokers (adjusted OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.41–0.86,P= 0.007), but not in never-smokers (adjusted OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.45–1.75,P= 0.73;P= 0.08, test for homogeneity). Consistent with the results of the genotyping analysis, the CGGCT haplotype with the 181946C allele was associated with a significantly increased risk of lung cancer compared to the CGGTT haplotype carrying the 181946T allele (adjusted OR = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.09–2.07,P= 0.012 and Bonferroni correctedP-value = 0.048).ConclusionThese results suggest that theEGFRpolymorphisms, particularly the 181945C>T polymorphism, could be used as markers for the genetic susceptibility to lung cancer.

Chronic lead exposure has been epidemiologically linked with hypertension and renal disease. Clinical studies suggest that low lead levels may contribute to renal progression. However, experimental studies have not examined whether low levels of lead accelerate progression in experimental chronic renal disease. Sprague-Dawley rats were administered lead (L; 150 ppm in drinking water, n = 16) for 4 wk, followed by remnant kidney (RK) surgery with continuation of lead for an additional 12 wk; control rats ( n = 9) were treated similarly but did not receive lead. Lead treatment was well tolerated and resulted in modest elevations in whole blood lead levels (26.4 ± 4.5 vs. 1 ± 0 μg/dl, week 16, P < 0.001). Lead treatment was associated with higher systolic blood pressure ( P < 0.05) and worse renal function (creatinine clearance 1.4 ± 0.4 vs. 1.8 ± 0.5 ml/min, RK+L vs. RK, P < 0.05), and with a tendency for greater proteinuria (6.6 ± 6.1 vs. 3.6 ± 1.5 mg protein/mg creatinine, RK+L vs. RK, P = 0.08). While glomerulosclerosis tended to be worse in lead-treated rats (37.6 ± 11 vs. 28.8 ± 2.3%, RK+L vs. RK, P = 0.06), the most striking finding was the development of worse arteriolar disease ( P < 0.05), peritubular capillary loss ( P < 0.05), tubulointerstitial damage, and macrophage infiltration ( P < 0.05) in association with significantly increased renal expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 mRNA. In conclusion, lead accelerates chronic renal disease, primarily by raising blood pressure and accelerating microvascular and tubulointerstitial injury.

Caspase-9 (CASP-9) is an initiator CASP in the apoptosome-driven apoptosis pathway and plays an important role in the development and progression of cancer. Polymorphisms in the promoter region of the CASP-9 gene may influence the promoter activity of this gene, thereby modulating susceptibility to lung cancer. To test this hypothesis, we examined the association of four polymorphisms [-1263A>G, -905T>G, -712C>T and -293_-275delCGTGAGGTCAGTGCGGGGA (-293del)] in the CASP-9 promoter with the risk of lung cancer in a Korean population. The CASP-9 genotypes were determined in 432 lung cancer patients and 432 healthy controls that were frequency-matched for age and gender. The -1263 GG genotype was associated with a significantly decreased risk of lung cancer compared with the -1263 AA genotype or combined -1263 AA+AG genotype [adjusted odds ratio (OR)=0.64, 95% confidence interval (95% CI)=0.42-0.98, P=0.04 and adjusted OR=0.67, 95% CI=0.46-0.97, P=0.01, respectively]. For the -712C>T polymorphism, individuals with at least one -712T allele were at a significantly increased risk of lung cancer compared with those harboring the -712 CC genotype (adjusted OR=1.42, 95% CI=1.06-1.89, P=0.02). Consistent with the results of genotype analyses, the -1263G/-712C (G-C) haplotype was associated with a significantly decreased risk of lung cancer [adjusted OR=0.59, 95% CI=0.47-0.75, P and Bonferroni corrected P (Pc)

Polymorphisms in DNA repair genes may be associated with differences in the capacity to repair DNA damage and thereby influence an individual's susceptibility to smoking-related cancer. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the potential association of 7 XPC polymorphisms (-449G-->C, -371G-->A, -27G-->C, Val499Arg, PAT-/+, IVS11-5C-->A and Lys939Gln) and their haplotypes with lung cancer risk in a Korean population. XPC genotypes were determined in 432 lung cancer patients and 432 healthy controls frequency-matched for age and sex. XPC haplotypes were predicted using a Bayesian algorithm in the Phase program. The combined -27CG+CC genotype was associated with a significantly increased risk for overall lung cancer compared to the -27GG genotype (adjusted OR = 1.97, 95% CI 1.22-3.17, p = 0.005). The other 6 polymorphisms were not significantly associated with overall risk of lung cancer. When lung cancer cases were categorized by tumor histology, the -371AA genotype was associated with a significantly increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma compared to the combined -371GG and GA genotype (adjusted OR = 2.08, 95% CI 1.09-4.00, p = 0.03). The PAT-/+, IVS11-5C-->A and Lys939Gln polymorphisms were associated with a significantly decreased risk of small cell carcinoma (SM) under a dominant model for the polymorphic allele (adjusted OR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.29-0.82, p = 0.006; adjusted OR = 0.60, 95% CI 0.36-1.00, p = 0.05; and adjusted OR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.35-0.97, p = 0.04, respectively). Consistent with genotyping analyses, haplotype 4 (1112222) containing the PAT+/IVS11-5A/939Gln alleles was associated with a significantly decreased risk of SM (adjusted OR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.37-0.85, p = 0.007 and Bonferroni-corrected p = 0.049), whereas haplotype 5 (1122111) containing the -27C allele was associated with a significantly increased risk of SM (adjusted OR = 2.88, 95% CI 1.41-5.87, p = 0.004 and Bonferroni-corrected p = 0.028). These results suggest that XPC polymorphisms/haplotypes may contribute to genetic susceptibility for lung cancer.