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Objective To investigate the relationship between the torque onset angle (TOA) of the isokinetic test for knee extensors in the paretic side and walking related balance in subacute stroke patients. Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients with first-ever strokes who have had at least two isokinetic tests within 6 months of onset. 102 patients satisfied the inclusion criteria. The characteristics of walking related balance were measured with the Berg Balance Scale sub-score (sBBS), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), 10-m Walk Test (10MWT) and Functional Independence Measure sub-score (sFIM). The second isokinetic test values of the knee extensor such as peak torque, peak torque to weight ratio, hamstring/quadriceps ratio, TOA, torque stop angle, torque at 30 degrees, and peak torque asymmetry ratio between paretic and non-paretic limb were also taken into account. Pearson’s correlation, simple regression and multiple regression analysis were used to analyze the correlation between TOA and walking related balance. Results TOA of the knee extensor of the paretic limb showed significant correlations with BBS, sBBS, TUG, 10MWT, and sFIM according to Pearson’s correlation analysis. TOA also had moderate to good correlations with walking related balance parameters in partial correlation analysis. In multiple regression analysis, TOA of the paretic knee extensor was significantly associated with walking related balance parameters. Conclusion This study demonstrated that TOA of the paretic knee extensor is a predictable parameter of walking related balance. Moreover, we suggest that the ability to recruit muscle quickly is important in walking related balance.

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate implants from different manufacturers and determine whether implant-healing abutment interface has a significant impact on implant seal. Methods: An air-injection pressure measurement test was performed on implants with either line-contact (modified TSIII [TSM] and Bone Level Tapered [BLT]) or partial face-contact (BlueDiamond [BD], SuperLine [SL], ISII, and UFII) interface design from 6 different manufacturers. Forty implants per implant type were analysed. Pressure data were evaluated with Kruskal–Wallis test and Dunn's post hoc analysis (statistical significance was set at P < .05). Results: BLT implants leaked when the mean pressure was increased to 199.9 kPa. The following implants showed mean leakage pressures of 182.9 (TSM), 157.4 (BD), 112.9 (SL), 101.8 (ISII), and 30.6 (UFII). There was a significant difference between line-contact and partial face-contact implants (P < .001). Conclusions: The implant interface design has a significant impact on implant microbial leakage. Implants with a line-contact interface exhibited a higher resistance to leakage than those with partial face-contact.

Objective To identify factors that affect the participation of female immigrants in their 20s in the national cervical cancer screening programs. Methods Data were obtained from the National Health Insurance Services from 2016 to 2017. A total of 17,730 women who agreed to undergo cervical cancer screening during 2016–2017 were included in the study. Results Of the 17,730 women, 8,149 (46%) participated in cervical cancer screening, whereas, 9,581 (54%) did not. Logistic regression analysis of factors related to cervical cancer screening showed that the odds ratio (OR) of screening was higher in short duration of stay (OR, 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03–1.35), Chinese nationality (OR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.28–1.59), unemployment (OR, 1; 95% CI, reference), participation in general health screening (OR, 4.16; 95% CI, 3.24–5.33), and comorbidities (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.09–1.24) when compared to the other populations. The highest OR was associated with participation in general health screening. Conclusion Appropriate programs should be developed to increase participation of socially vulnerable groups in cervical cancer screening. Such programs will improve awareness regarding cervical cancer screening and reduce disparities in healthcare.

Fluoride ion is essential for health in small amounts, but excessive intake can be toxic. Meeting safety regulations for managing fluoride ion emissions from industrial facilities with both cost-effective and eco-friendly approaches is challenging. This study presents a solution through a chemical-free process, producing a boehmite (AlOOH) adsorbent on aluminum sheets. Utilizing cost-effective Al foil and DI water, rather than typical precursors, yields a substantial cost advantage. The optimized AlOOH adsorbent demonstrated a high fluoride ion removal rate of 91.0% in simulated wastewater with fluoride ion concentrations below 20 ppm and displayed a similar performance in industrial wastewater. Furthermore, the AlOOH adsorbent exhibited excellent reusability through a simple regeneration process and maintained stable performance across a wide pH range of 4 to 11, demonstrating its capability to adsorb fluoride ions under diverse conditions. The efficiency of the AlOOH adsorbent was validated by a high fluoride ion removal efficiency of 90.9% in a semi-batch mode flow cell, highlighting its potential applicability in engineered water treatment systems. Overall, the AlOOH adsorbent developed in this study offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly, and sustainable solution for effectively removing fluoride ion from surface waters and industrial wastewaters.

Abstract Background This study aimed to assess the occurrence of coronary artery lesions (CAL) in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD) according to serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Methods This retrospective analysis was based on the nationwide survey of KD conducted in the Republic of Korea between 2015 and 2017. We enrolled 9131 patients and defined low (

Silicon dioxide (SiO2) thin films were prepared by plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) at a low temperature of 150 °C using di-isopropylaminosilane and oxygen with different plasma times. While SiO2 films deposited with a short plasma time of 0.5 s exhibited high leakage current, SiO2 films deposited with a plasma time of 7 s at 150 °C showed excellent dielectric properties, including a low current density of 4.8 × 10−9 A/cm2 at 1 MV/cm and a high breakdown field of 10.5 MV/cm, comparable to those of PEALD-SiO2 films deposited at 350 °C. As the plasma time increased from 0.5 to 7 s, the dielectric constant of SiO2 films decreased from 7.5 to 4.0, which was close to the value of stoichiometric SiO2. Appropriate conduction mechanisms of these SiO2 films with differing electrical characteristics by plasma time were examined. Analyses by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and secondary ion mass spectrometry revealed that the quality of SiO2 films largely depended on the amount of defects such as hydroxyl and hydrogen-related species generated by low-temperature deposition.

The present research aims at promoting the stability and applicability of a hybrid daylighting system combining daylight and artificial light, which eventually enables a constant and pleasant luminous flux of the mixed light delivered by a terminal device installed indoors. That is, the present system allows a constant amount of luminous flux through its terminal device similar to an electric lamp, demonstrating its energy efficiency as well as comfortableness. The system effectively combines two different types of light, as solar rays are collected by a solar tracking sun light collector. The mixed light is transmitted indoors by optical fiber cables all the way to terminal devices installed indoors and discharged as needed. This feature enables the utilization of daylight to its full capacity, promoting solar availability. In this study, the photometry of hybrid lighting was experimentally measured and analyzed by using a spectrometer for different portions of sunlight when maintaining a constant luminous flux of mixed light. The effectiveness of hybrid lighting was explored for a number of cases in actual conditions, and the system was capable of delivering a constant illuminance of 1200 lux on a plane located 1.1 m away from the terminal device (light emitter). Finally, the system was installed in a test cell to verify its effectiveness for indoor illumination.

Past studies of microgrids have been based on measurements of fuel consumption by generators under static loads. There is little information on the fuel efficiency of generators under time-varying loads. To help analyze the impact of time-varying loads on optimal generator operation and fuel consumption, we formulate a mixed-integer linear optimization model to plan generator and energy storage system (ESS) operation to satisfy known demands. Our model includes fuel consumption penalty terms on time-varying loads. We exercise the model on various scenarios and compare the resulting optimal fuel consumption and generator operation profiles. Our results show that the change in fuel efficiency between scenarios with the integration of ESS is minimal regardless of the imposed penalty placed on the generator. However, without the assistance of the ESS, the fuel consumption increases dramatically with the penalty imposed on the generator. The integration of an ESS improves fuel consumption because the ESS allows the generator to minimize power output fluctuation. While the presence of a penalty term has a clear impact on generator operation and fuel consumption, the exact type and weight of the penalty appears insignificant; this may provide useful insight for future studies in developing a real-time controller.

The incidence of eutrophication is increasing due to fertilizer abuse and global warming. Eutrophication can induce the proliferation of cyanobacteria such as Microcystis, which produces microcystins. Microcystins are toxic to specific organs such as the liver and the heart. Thus, monitoring of microcystins is strongly required to control drinking water and agricultural product qualities. However, microcystins could be adsorbed by plastic materials during sample storage and preparation, hindering accurate analysis. Therefore, the current study examined the recovery rate of microcystins from six plastics used for containers and eight plastics used for membrane filters. Among the six plastics used for containers, polyethylene terephthalate showed the best recovery rate (≥81.3%) for 48 h. However, polypropylene, polystyrene, and high- and low-density polyethylenes showed significant adsorption after exposure for 1 hr. For membrane materials, regenerated cellulose (≥99.3%) showed the highest recovery rate of microcystins, followed by polyvinylidene fluoride (≥94.1%) and polytetrafluoroethylene (≥95.7%). The adsorption of microcystins appeared to be strongly influenced by various molecular interactions, including hydrophobic interaction, hydrogen bonding, and electrostatic interaction. In addition, microcystins’ functional residues seemed to be critical factors affecting their adsorption by plastic materials. The present study demonstrates that polyethylene terephthalate and regenerated cellulose membrane are suitable plastic materials for the analysis of microcystins.

Background/Aim: Vasopressin injected during myomectomy is known to effectively reduce bleeding but is sometimes associated with intraoperative vasoconstriction and hypertension due to systemic absorption. Although there is a growing preference for the use of diluted vasopressin, evidence of its effect and safety is still lacking. Patients and Methods: We performed a randomized controlled pilot trial to evaluate the effect and safety of vasopressin diluted in a constant volume during robot-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy (RALM), where a total of 39 women with uterine fibroids were randomly assigned into the following three groups (group 1, 0.2 IU/ml; group 2, 0.1 IU/ml; group 3, 0.05 IU/ml with a total of 100 ml of normal saline). The primary endpoint was to compare estimated blood loss (EBL), and the secondary endpoints were to compare postoperative value and drop ratio of hemoglobin, operation time, transfusion, hospitalization, and complications among the three groups. Results: There were no differences in the number and largest size of uterine fibroids, total weight of uterine fibroids, console time, and volumes of intravenous fluid administered during RALM among the three groups, whereas combined operation was performed more commonly in group 2 than in groups 1 and 3 (53.9% vs. 0 to 7.7%; p=0.01). The primary and secondary endpoints were also not different among the three groups. However, two patients in group 1 (15.4%) showed vasopressin-related hypertension. Conclusion: Vasopressin diluted in a volume of 100 ml showed an effective hemostatic effect and safety during RALM (Trial No. NCT04874246 in ClinicalTrial.gov). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the adipogenesis and lipolysis effects of the Bacillus subtilis-fermented white sword bean extract (FWSBE) on 3T3-L1 adipocytes, we treated 3T3-L1 preadipocytes before and after differentiation with FWSBE and measured triglyceride, free glycerol, mRNA, and protein levels. First, FWSBE reduced the cell viability of 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes under 1000 µg/mL conditions. Triglyceride accumulation in 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes was suppressed, and free glycerol content in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes was increased in the FWSBE treatment groups, indicating that FWSBE has anti-obesity effects. Further, FWSBE suppressed adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes by lowering the protein levels of C/EBPα, PPARγ, and FAS and increasing the level of pACC and pAMPK. Additionally, FWSBE promoted lipolysis in mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes by increasing the transcription levels of Ppara, Acox, and Lcad and the protein levels of pHSL and ATGL. Thus, we suggest that FWSBE can be a potential dietary supplement because of its anti-obesity properties.

Background: Quercus salicina Blume is an evergreen plant growing southern parts of Korea and Japan, and has been used for the treatment of dysentery, dermatitis, and hemorrhage from possible effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-endemic and litholytic activities. We investigated the underlying mechanisms of Quercus salicina Blume leaf extracts (QS) protection against cadmium treatment utilizing human kidney origin HK-2 cells. Methods: To ascertain the functional constituents of the hot water-extracted QS, we conducted analyses to determine the total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Subsequently, the antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant power) methods. After treating HK-2 cells with QS and Cd, we confirmed the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the expression of related proteins through western blotting. This investigation aimed to assess the antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects of QS against cadmium-induced oxidative stress. Results: QS exhibited strong antioxidative potential, since the samples exhibited significantly high DPPH and FRAP values. Upon exposure of HK-2 cells to cadmium, inducing oxidative stress, the application of QS effectively reinstated cellular antioxidative functions, leading to an augmentation in cell viability. Notably, the presence of QS attenuated the heightened expression of oxidative marker enzymes induced by cadmium treatment, including SOD (superoxide dismutase) 1, catalase, Nrf-2, and Heme-oxygenase. The apparent disappearance of the apoptotic bodies indicates a potential apoptosis controlling effect of QS. Furthermore, the considerable increase in sub-G1 phase with the addition of cadmium was diminished under QS treatment indicating the ability of QS to reduce the degree of apoptosis related cell cycle phase. The apoptotic quenching effects of QS were accompanied by the downregulation of pro-apoptotic protein Bax and up-regulation of pro-apoptotic Bcl-2. The examination of cleaved caspase-9 and caspase-3 has provided evidence that the pronounced anti-apoptotic activities observed in cadmiumchallenged HK-2 cells significantly diminished in the presence of QS. Conclusions: QS is a highly effective antioxidant and reduces cell cytotoxicity caused by cadmium through antioxidant functions and anti-apoptotic capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the correlation, according to postnatal age, between plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels and echocardiographic parameters for the assessment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm infants with respiratory distress.MethodsWe enrolled 42 preterm infants with respiratory distress who underwent serial echocardiographic evaluation with simultaneous plasma BNP measurements until ductal closure. The correlations between BNP levels and the following 4 representative echocardiographic parameters were studied: diameter of the ductus arteriosus (DA), ratio of the left atrial diameter to the aortic diameter (LA/Ao), ratio of the PDA diameter to the infant's left pulmonary artery diameter (PDA/LPA), and the antegrade diastolic flow of LPA (DFLPA).ResultsBNP levels were significantly correlated to the magnitude of the ductal shunt, comprising the DA diameter, PDA/LPA ratio, LA/Ao ratio, and antegrade DFLPA for the overall study period. The earliest significant correlation, starting from postnatal day 2, was observed between the LA/Ao ratio and BNP levels. The PDA/LPA ratio and the antegrade DFLPA showed significant correlations with BNP levels postnatal day 3 onward, and with the DA diameter, postnatal day 5 onward.ConclusionBNP levels and echocardiographic parameters showed a positive correlation, but the significance of the correlations differed according to the postnatal age, especially during the first few days of life.

PurposeNephrogenesis is normally accompanied by a tightly regulated and efficient vascularization. We investigated the effect of angiotensin II inhibition on angiogenesis in the developing rat kidney.MethodsNewborn rat pups were treated with enalapril (30 mg/kg/day) or vehicle (control) for 7 days after birth. Renal histological changes were checked using Hematoxylin & Eosin staining. We also investigated the intrarenal expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1), VEGFR2, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B, and PDGF receptor-β with Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining at postnatal day 8. Expression of the endothelial cell marker CD31 was examined to determine glomerular and peritubular capillary density.ResultsEnalapril-treated rat kidneys showed disrupted tubules and vessels when compared with the control rat kidneys. In the enalapril-treated group, intrarenal VEGF-A protein expression was significantly higher, whereas VEGFR1 protein expression was lower than that in the control group (P

Despite the introduction of next-generation sequencing in the realm of DNA sequencing technology, it is not often used in the investigation of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Oral cancer is one of the most frequently occurring malignancies in some parts of the world and has a high mortality rate. Patients with this malignancy are likely to have a poor prognosis and may suffer from severe facial deformity or mastication problems even after successful treatment. Therefore, a thorough understanding of this malignancy is essential to prevent and treat it. This review sought to highlight the contributions of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in unveiling the genetic alterations and differential expressions of miRNAs involved in OSCC progression. By applying an appropriate eligibility criterion, we selected relevant studies for review. Frequently identified mutations in genes such as TP53, NOTCH1, and PIK3CA are discussed. The findings of existing miRNAs (e.g., miR-21) as well as novel discoveries pertaining to OSCC are also covered. Lastly, we briefly mention the latest findings in targeted gene therapy and the potential use of miRNAs as biomarkers. Our goal is to encourage researchers to further adopt NGS in their studies and give an overview of the latest findings of OSCC treatment.

The stylohyoid muscle, one of the four suprahyoid muscles and one of the three styloid muscles, is a small thin muscle running from the styloid process to the hyoid bone. It is intimately related to the styloid process and the styloid ligament. It draws the hyoid bone superiorly and posteriorly along with the posterior belly of the digastric muscle. It functions mainly during swallowing and opening of the mandible. Clinically, it has received much attention for its association with Eagle's syndrome. In this review, anatomic considerations with clinical implications of the stylohyoid muscle will be covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is the most common Mendelian autoinflammatory disease, characterized by uncontrolled activation of the innate immune system that manifests as recurrent brief fever and polyserositis (e.g., peritonitis, pleuritic, and arthritis). FMF is caused by autosomal recessive mutations of the Mediterranean fever gene, MEFV which encodes the pyrin protein. Although FMF predominantly affects people from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern ethnic origins, 3 cases of FMF have been reported in Korea since 2012. We report another case of FMF in Korea in which the patient presented with a month-long fever without serositis. After treatment with colchicine was initiated, the patient’s symptoms quickly subsided. The response to colchicine was helpful for diagnosis. We compare the FMF genotypes in Korea with in other countries. Studying FMF cases in Korea will help establish the best MEFV exons to use for screening and diagnosis of Korean FMF.

In this study, we demonstrate that activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) with glabridin alleviates adiposity and hyperlipidemia in obesity. In several obese rodent models, glabridin decreased body weight and adiposity with a concomitant reduction in fat cell size. Further, glabridin ameliorated fatty liver and plasma levels of triglyceride and cholesterol. In accordance with these findings, glabridin suppressed the expression of lipogenic genes such as sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor (SREBP)-1c, fatty acid synthase (FAS), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), and stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD)-1 in white adipose tissues and liver, whereas it elevated the expression of fatty acid oxidation genes such as carnitine palmitoyl transferase (CPT)1, acyl-CoA oxidase (ACO), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α in muscle. Moreover, glabridin enhanced phosphorylation of AMPK in muscle and liver and promoted fatty acid oxidation by modulating mitochondrial activity. Together, these data suggest that glabridin is a novel AMPK activator that would exert therapeutic effects in obesity-related metabolic disorders.

In transparent organic light-emitting diodes (TOLEDs), the asymmetry in the optical paths causes difference between the bottom and top emitting lights, both in emissions and spectral distributions. Capping layers (CLs) can be used as an optical functional to enhance the emissions and adjust the spectral distributions. Here, we report on the optical effects of an organic CL, 1,1-bis[(di-4-tolylamino)phenyl]cyclohexane (TAPC), on the characteristics of TOLEDs Both simulated and experimental results are presented. We demonstrate the possibility of improving the total emission and achieving spectral matching of bottom and top emissions by varying the CL thickness. The optical effects of CLs have been interpreted from interference perspectives. Finally, we have presented a guideline that is practically useful in designing high-performance TOLEDs with CLs.

Liver X receptor (LXR), a sterol-activated nuclear hormone receptor, has been implicated in cholesterol and fatty acid homeostasis via regulation of reverse cholesterol transport and de novo fatty acid synthesis. LXR is also involved in immune responses, including anti-inflammatory action and T cell proliferation. In this study, we demonstrated that activated LXR suppresses cell cycle progression and proliferation in certain cell types. Stimulation of LXR with synthetic ligand T0901317 or GW3965 inhibited cell growth rate and arrested the cell cycle at the G1/S boundary in several cells, such as RWPE1, THP1, SNU16, LNCaP, and HepG2. However, LXR ligands did not exhibit antiproliferative activity in PC3, HEK293, or HeLa cells. Interestingly, activated LXR-mediated cell cycle arrest is closely correlated with the lipogenic gene expression and triacylglyceride accumulation. In accordance with these findings, suppression of FAS via small-interference RNA (siRNA) partially alleviated the antiproliferative effect of LXR activation in RWPE1 cells. Together, these data suggest that LXR activation with its ligands inhibits cell proliferation and induces G1/S arrest through elevated lipogenic activity, thus proposing a novel effect of activated LXR on cell cycle regulation.

The microbial leakage at the implant-abutment interface (IAI) is one cause of peri-implant infection that puts long-term implant stability at risk. The present study compared two types of Morse taper implants in terms of sealing performance at the implant-healing abutment interface. Three implant systems, one of which exhibited a partial face-contact design (TSO) and the other two a line-contact design (TSM and BLT), were analyzed in vitro using two quantitative implant leakage measuring techniques: air-injection pressure measurement test and microbial examination. An in-house-developed device was used to determine implant leakage by recording the initial drop in pressure while injecting air through the implant. The microbial examination measured the absorbances of culture mediums in which the inoculated implants were contained. Significant difference was found between the partial face- and line-contact groups (p<0.001). Both tests revealed that partial face-contact implants are more prone to leakage than line-contact implants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relative dentin abrasivity-profilometry equivalent values were compared using non-contact profilometry with three subtypes of regular toothpaste and two subtypes of whitening toothpaste containing sodium bicarbonate and 35% hydrogen peroxide. Bovine dentin specimens were assigned to six groups: regular toothpaste (R): R1 (BAMBOO SALT GUM OINTMENT); R2 (MEDIAN TARTAR ORIGINAL); R3 (PERIOE Alpha), Reference slurry: RS (calcium pyrophosphate), whitening toothpaste (W): W1 (NET. WT); W2 (Vussen 28 WHITENING). Relative dentin abrasion-profilometry equivalent (RDA-PE) was determined by brushing 10,000 times (n=8). The pH of the toothpaste was measured (n=5) and the abrasive constituents of the toothpaste was analyzed by FE-SEM and EDS. The RDA-PE values ranged from 26 to 166, and the pH level ranges were 4.928-9.153. The RDA-PE value of the whitening toothpaste containing hydrogen peroxide was not high compared with that of the regular toothpaste. The RDA-PE values of whitening toothpaste could vary depending on the mechanism and ingredients of the whitening agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to devise ways of promoting the use of deciduous trees that have increased in number with climate change. For six oak species commonly utilized to produce liquor barrels, normal wood and tension wood were classified by part. Then, both large vessel lumen area and tyloses were quantitatively assessed. The findings showed that in both normal and tension woods, large vessel lumen area was largest in sapwood, followed by heartwood and juvenile wood. Tyloses were found in both normal and tension woods of all the six species, but the number of tyloses varied according to species. It was heart wood that contained the highest amount in both normal and tension woods. It was also revealed that the number of tyloses decreased with the growing area of large vessel lumen. This study will provide fundamental data to decide oak tree species for the production of liquor barrels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: Array comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) is a technique used to analyze quantitative increase or decrease of chromosomes by competitive DNA hybridization of patients and controls. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits and yield of array-CGH in comparison with conventional karyotyping in pediatric neurology patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We included 87 patients from the pediatric neurology clinic with at least one of the following features: developmental delay, mental retardation, dysmorphic face, or epilepsy. DNA extracted from patients and controls was hybridized on the Roche NimbleGen 135K oligonucleotide array and compared with G-band karyotyping. The results were analyzed with findings reported in recent publications and internet databases. RESULTS: Chromosome imbalances, including 9 cases detected also by G-band karyotyping, were found in 28 patients (32.2%), and at least 19 of them seemed to be causally related to the abnormal phenotypes. Regarding each clinical symptom, 26.2% of 42 developmental delay patients, 44.4% of 18 mental retardation patients, 42.9% of 28 dysmorphic face patients, and 34.6% of 26 epilepsy patients showed abnormal array results. CONCLUSION: Although there were relatively small number of tests in patients with pediatric neurologic disease, this study demonstrated that array-CGH is a very useful tool for clinical diagnosis of unknown genome abnormalities performed in pediatric neurology clinics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is a key enzyme that regulates cellular redox potential. In this study, we demonstrate that macrophage G6PD plays an important role in the modulation of proinflammatory responses and oxidative stress. The G6PD levels in macrophages in the adipose tissue of obese animals were elevated, and G6PD mRNA levels positively correlated with those of proinflammatory genes. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and free fatty acids, which initiate proinflammatory signals, stimulated macrophage G6PD. Overexpression of macrophage G6PD potentiated the expression of proinflammatory and pro-oxidative genes responsible for the aggravation of insulin sensitivity in adipocytes. In contrast, when macrophage G6PD was inhibited or suppressed via chemical inhibitors or small interfering RNA (siRNA), respectively, basal and LPS-induced proinflammatory gene expression was attenuated. Furthermore, macrophage G6PD increased activation of the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and NF-κB pathways, which may lead to a vicious cycle of oxidative stress and proinflammatory cascade. Together, these data suggest that an abnormal increase of G6PD in macrophages promotes oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in the adipose tissue of obese animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the light-emitting performances of blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes (PHOLEDs) with three different electron injection and transport materials, that is, bathocuproine(2,9-dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline) (Bphen), 1,3,5-tri(m-pyrid-3-yl-phenyl)benzene (Tm3PyPB), and 2,6-bis(3-(carbazol-9-yl)phenyl)pyridine (26DCzPPy), which are partially doped with cesium metal. We find that the device characteristics are very dependent on the nature of the introduced electron injection layer (EIL) and electron transporting layer (ETL). When the appropriate EIL and ETL are combined, the peak external quantum efficiency and peak power efficiency improve up to 20.7% and 45.6 lm/W, respectively. Moreover, this blue PHOLED even maintains high external quantum efficiency of 19.6% and 16.9% at a luminance of 1,000 cd/m2 and 10,000 cd/m2, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity during childhood increases the risk of cardiac disease, hypertension, and other complications in adulthood. We investigated the cellular and renin-angiotensin system changes of the heart in obese young rats. We used Sprague-Dawley rats and early obesity was induced by overfeeding through adjusting the number of male pups per dam during the first 28 days of life. The body weight, heart weight, blood pressure, serum glucose, and blood pressure were assessed and we performed echocardiography, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA); assessment, apoptosis and Masson's trichrome staining, and Western blotting and the results were compared between the normal litter (NL, control) and the small litter (SL, obesity). There were no differences in blood pressure and serum glucose, but the body weight increased 61.2% and the interventricular septal thickness in diastole on the echocardiography was increased in the SL. There was hyperplasia of the PCNA cells and apoptotic cells without cellular hypertrophy or change of the amount of collagen in the SL. On Western blotting, rennin, and angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) were increased without a change of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) in the SL. Early obesity caused echocardiographically detected septal hypertrophy and an increase of cellular turnover. Renin and AT2R were upregulated without a change of AT1R and the increase of AT2R was regarded as a cardioprotective effect against the pathologic conditions caused by the early obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE--Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α/γ dual agonists have been developed to alleviate metabolic disorders. However, several PPARα/γ dual agonists are accompanied with unwanted side effects, including body weight gain, edema, and tissue failure. This study investigated the effects of a novel PPARα/γ dual agonist, CG301269, on metabolic disorders both in vitro and in vivo. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS--Function of CG301269 as a PPARα/γ dual agonist was assessed in vitro by luciferase reporter assay, mammalian one-hybrid assay, and analyses of PPAR target genes. In vitro profiles on fatty acid oxidation and inflammatory responses were acquired by fatty acid oxidation assay and quantitative (q)RT-PCR of proinflammatory genes. In vivo effect of CG301269 was examined in db/db mice. Total body weight and various tissue weights were measured, and hepatic lipid profiles were analyzed. Systemic glucose and insulin tolerance were measured, and the in vivo effect of CG301269 on metabolic genes and proinflammatory genes was examined by qRT-PCR. RESULTS--CG301269 selectively stimulated the transcriptional activities of PPARa and PPAR7. CG301269 enhanced fatty acid oxidation in vitro and ameliorated insulin resistance and hyper-lipidemia in vivo, hi db/db mice, CG301269 reduced inflammatory responses and fatty liver, without body weight gain. CONCLUSIONS--We demonstrate that CG301269 exhibits beneficial effects on glucose and lipid metabolism by simultaneous activation of both PPARα and PPARγ. Our data suggest that CG301269 would be a potential lead compound against obesity and related metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the light-emitting performances of blue phosphorescent organic light-emitting diodes, known as PHOLEDs, by incorporating an N,N’-dicarbazolyl-3,5-benzen interlayer between the hole transporting layer and emitting layer (EML). We found that the effects of the introduced interlayer for triplet exciton confinement and hole/electron balance in the EML were exceptionally dependent on the host materials: 9-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3,6-bis(triphenylsilyl)-9H-carbazole, 9-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-3,6-ditrityl-9H-carbazole, and 4,4’-bis-triphenylsilanylbiphenyl. When an appropriate interlayer and host material were combined, the peak external quantum efficiency was greatly enhanced by over 21 times from 0.79% to 17.1%. Studies on the recombination zone using a series of host materials were also conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is no longer viewed as an adult disease. The purpose of the present study was to understand how hypertensive children are evaluated and managed, by surveying pediatricians in Japan and South Korea. Methods: A questionnaire was mailed to 109 Japanese (JA) and 159 Korean (KO) pediatric cardiologists, pediatric nephrologists, and other pediatricians. Results: A total of 127 replies were received (response rate 47%). Most of respondents did not check blood pressure (BP) routinely in outpatient clinics (JA 77%, KO 88%). A mercury sphygmomanometer was the most commonly used method for BP measurements (JA 72%, KO 62%). BP treatment goals were usually set at the 95th percentile for age, gender, and height (JA 47%, KO 54%). More KO used a lower goal in children with primary HTN than JA. KO respondents preferred angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) as initial agents regardless of underlying diseases whereas JA respondents chose various medications, that is, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and ACEI. For BP monitoring, self-monitoring was found to be most frequent in both countries (JA 80%, KO 57%). Ambulatory BP monitoring was not frequently utilized in both countries (JA 33% KO 34%). Conclusion: The current assessment, management and differing trends in pediatric HTN in Japan and Korea have been identified in the present study. Pediatricians should be aware of the growing implications of HTN in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing evidence indicates that aldosterone is a potent mitogenic signal regulating genes involved in antiapoptosis, cell proliferation and growth. We investigated the role of endogenous aldosterone in renal development, cell proliferation and apoptosis, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) family expression. Newborn rats were treated with either spironolactone (200 mg/kg/d) in olive oil or only olive oil for 7 days. TUNEL assay and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) stain were performed on kidney sections. Immunoblots, immunohistochemical (IHC) stain, and reverse transcriptase-PCR for MAPKs were performed. PCNA-positive proliferating cells decreased and apoptotic cells increased significantly with spironolactone (P < 0.05). In the spironolactone-treated group, c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)-2 expression increased, whereas extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK)-2 and p38 expressions decreased in immunoblots (P < 0.05) and IHC stain. ERK-2 and p38 mRNA expressions increased in the spironolactone-treated group (P < 0.05). This study demonstrates that aldosterone blockade in the developing kidney decreases cellular proliferation, increases apoptosis, and modulates the expressions of JNK-2, ERK-2, and p38. Aldosterone possibly participates in renal development and MAPK family may serve as, in part, the signaling intermediate through the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in the developing kidney. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 724–733, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berberine (BBR) has been shown to improve several metabolic disorders, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia, by stimulating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). However, the effects of BBR on proinflammatory responses in macrophages are poorly understood. Here we show that BBR represses proinfiammatory responses through AMPK activation in macrophages. In adipose tissue of obese db/db mice, BBR treatment significantly downregulated the expression of proinflammatory genes such as TNF-α, IL-β, IL-6, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cycloox- ygenase-2 (COX-2). Consistently, BBR inhibited LPS-induced expression of proinflammatory genes including IL-1 β, IL-6, iNOS, MCP-1, COX-2, and matrix metalloprotease-9 in peritoneal macrophages and RAW 264.7 cells. Upon various proinflammatory signals including LPS, free fatty acids, and hydrogen peroxide, BBR sup- pressed the phosphorylation of MAPKs, such as p38, ERK, and JNK, and the level of reactive oxygen species in macrophages. Moreover, these inhibitory effects of BBR on proinflammatory responses were abolished by AMPK inhibition via either compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, or dominant-negative AMPK, implying that BBR would downregulate proinflammatory responses in macrophages via AMPK stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A combination solder of Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu (numbers are all in weight percent unless specified otherwise) wrapped by Sn-57Bi-1Ag was tested for application to three-dimensional (3-D) multistack packaging. The experimental variables controlled were the reflow peak temperatures (170, 185, 200, and 230°C), the reflow cycles (up to four times), and the mask which controls the amount of Sn-57Bi-1Ag solder paste (two sizes). We demonstrate and evaluate the combination solder structure, focusing on microstructural changes and the shear strength. The degree of mixing in the combination solder, which is enhanced by an increase in the reflow peak temperature, is independent of the number of reflow cycles. The ball shear strength and the lab shear strength both increased with increases in the reflow peak temperatures. This behavior is explained by the amount of the brittle Bi phase that constitutes the eutectic Sn-Bi phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pentacene-based organic thin-film transistors (TFTs) have been fabricated with and without treatment by hydrogen (H2) plasma at the interface between the electrode and the pentacene surface. Processing with a H2 plasma was carried out in a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition with varying treatment times. The interface treatment by H2 plasma resulted in improved device electrical properties. Removal of oxygen from the pentacene surface occurs due to slight etching by the plasma. Sufficient flux density of the H2 plasma leads to full pentacene- surface coverage by rearranging the hydrogen with carbon instead of oxygen. Atomic force microscopy profiles reveal the morphology changes of the pentacene surface after treatment, and secondary ion mass spectrometry shows the change via compositional depth profiles indicating H2, O2, and C-H binding. Hydrogen treatment, therefore, appears to modify the interface by removing the surface oxygen layer, resulting in better performance of the organic TFT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pentacene thin film transistors fabricated without photolithographic patterning were fabricated on the plastic substrates. Both the organic/inorganic thin films and metallic electrode were patterned by shifting the position of the shadow-mask which accompanies the substrate throughout the deposition process. By using an optically transparent zirconium oxide (ZrO2) as a gate insulator and octadecyltrimethoxysilane (OTMS) as an organic molecule for self-assembled monolayer (SAM) to increase the adhesion between the plastic substrate and gate insulator and the mobility with surface treatment, high-performance transistor with field effect mobility 0.66 cm2/V s and I on/ I off > 105 was formed on the plastic substrate. This technique will be applicable to all structure deposited at low temperature and suitable for an easy process for flexible display. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Porous polysilicon (PPS) emitters were fabricated by depositing an Au thin film on a thermally oxidized polysilicon and their emission properties were examined. The emission properties were also measured for the emitters with various Au thicknesses and the vacuum packaged devices were then developed. The experimental results show that the electrical performances of PPS emitters decreased, because high-temperature packaging process will lead to thermally induced phenomenon between thin layers. We have carried out optimal-thickness variation in Au thickness to improve electron emission properties of PPS emitters packaged. When PPS emitters packaged was driven directly, the field-induced electron emission through anode phosphor was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a rare case of right circumflex retro-oesophageal aortic arch with coarctation of a high-positioned right arch. A 7-month-old boy presented with a cardiac murmur. Cardiac situs was normal and there was no evidence of an intracardiac shunt or patent ductus arteriosus. MR aortography revealed a right aortic arch that was high-positioned, tortuous and narrowed. This right aortic arch crossed the midline behind the oesophagus and continued as a left-sided descending aorta. The left common carotid and subclavian arteries arose from a large branching vascular structure that derived from the top of the left-sided descending aorta. The right common carotid artery arose from the ascending aorta. The proximal portion of the right common carotid artery showed very severe stenosis and poststenotic dilatation. The right subclavian artery originated distal to the narrowed and tortuous segment of the aortic arch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly efficient and bright organic light-emitting diodes have been realized by inserting a thin insulating lithium fluoride (LiF) layer in the tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (Alq3) with conventional organic layers. By comparing the performances of newly devised devices as a function of the position of the LiF in the Alq3 layer, the authors propose the optimal position of the LiF in the Alq3 layer. Experimental results show that the efficiency and brightness of the newly devised device with LiF in the Alq3 layer were seven times higher than that without LiF in the Alq3 layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total and differential leukocyte counts are useful inflammatory biomarkers. The ability of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) to predict outcomes in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD) was assessed in this study. All patients with KD who underwent consecutive complete blood count analyses during the acute febrile phase before intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), 2 days after IVIG regardless of defervescence, and 3 to 4 weeks after defervescence were enrolled. NLR was calculated by dividing the neutrophil count by the lymphocyte count. NLR values that best predicted IVIG resistance and the development of coronary artery abnormalities were determined by receiver-operating characteristic curve and multivariate analyses. Of the 587 patients with KD, 222 were IVIG resistant. IVIG-resistant patients had higher NLRs than IVIG-responsive patients. The best NLR cut-off values during the acute febrile phase and 2 days after IVIG for predicting IVIG resistance were 5.49 (p <0.001) and 1.26 (p <0.001), respectively. Sixty-two patients developed coronary artery abnormalities; 47 had coronary dilatation, and 15 had aneurysms. Patients with aneurysms, but not patients with dilatation, had higher NLRs than patients without coronary artery abnormalities. The best NLR cut-off value 2 days after IVIG for predicting aneurysm development was 1.01 (p <0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that the NLR 2 days after IVIG independently predicted coronary aneurysm development (p = 0.03) and IVIG resistance (p <0.001). In conclusion, the NLR can be used for risk stratification in patients with KD. An NLR 2 days after IVIG that exceeded 1 was predictive of coronary aneurysm development and IVIG resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orosomucoid (ORM), also called α-1 acid glycoprotein, is an abundant plasma protein that is an immunomodulator induced by stressful conditions such as infections. In this study, we reveal that Orm is induced selectively in the adipose tissue of obese mice to suppress excess inflammation that otherwise disturbs energy homeostasis. Adipose Orm levels were elevated by metabolic signals, including insulin, high glucose, and free fatty acid, as well as by the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α, which is found in increased levels in the adipose tissue of morbid obese subjects. In both adipocytes and macrophages, ORM suppressed proinflammatory gene expression and pathways such as NF-κB and mitogen- activated protein kinase signalings and reactive oxygen species generation. Concomitantly, ORM relieved hyperglycemia-induced insulin resistance as well as tumor necrosis factor-α-mediated lipolysis in adipocytes. Accordingly, ORM improved glucose and insulin tolerance in obese and diabetic db/db mice. Taken together, our results suggest that ORM integrates inflammatory and metabolic signals to modulate immune responses to protect adipose tissue from excessive inflammation and thereby from metabolic dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]