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Background Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are at higher risk for severe infection. However, the risk for severe COVID-19 and vaccine effectiveness among SOTRs remain unclear. Methods This retrospective study used a nationwide health care claims database and COVID-19 registry from the Republic of Korea (2020 to 2022). Adult SOTRs diagnosed with COVID-19 were matched with up to 4 non-SOTR COVID-19 patients by propensity score. Severe COVID-19 was defined as treatment with high-flow nasal cannulae, mechanical ventilation, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Results Among 6783 SOTRs with COVID-19, severe COVID-19 was reported with the highest rate in lung transplant recipients (13.16%), followed by the heart (6.30%), kidney (3.90%), and liver (2.40%). SOTRs had a higher risk of severe COVID-19 compared to non-SOTRs, and lung transplant recipients showed the highest risk (adjusted odds ratio, 18.14; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.53–38.58). Vaccine effectiveness against severe disease among SOTRs was 47% (95% CI, 18%–65%), 64% (95% CI, 49%–75%), and 64% (95% CI, 29%–81%) for 2, 3, and 4 doses, respectively. Conclusions SOTRs are at significantly higher risk for severe COVID-19 compared to non-SOTRs. Vaccination is effective in preventing the progression to severe COVID-19. Efforts should be made to improve vaccine uptake among SOTRs, while additional protective measures should be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infections are considered risk factors for autoimmune inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), the incidence of which is considered to have been impacted by the COVID‐19 pandemic. The impact of non‐pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) on the incidence of AIRDs and their associated health care services and medical expenses in Korea was investigated. Methods: We included all AIRD cases reported between January 2016 and February 2021 based on the National Health Insurance Service data. We evaluated changes in incidence trends for each AIRD before and after NPI implementation (Feb 2020 to Feb 2021) using segmented regression analysis. Changes in health care utilization and medical costs for each AIRD before and after NPI implementation were also investigated. Results: After NPI implementation, monthly incidence rates declined significantly by 0.205 per 1 000 000 (95% confidence interval [CI], −0.308 to −0.101, p <.001) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). No significant changes in the incidence of all AIRDs other than SLE were observed before and after implementation. Further, annual outpatient department visits per patient were lower during implementation for all diseases, except juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The prescription days per outpatient visit increased significantly during implementation for all diseases, except JIA and ankylosing spondylitis. During implementation, the total annual medical costs per patient tended to decrease for all diseases, except JIA and mixed connective tissue disease. Conclusion: Implementation of NPIs to contain the pandemic led to a reduction in the incidence of SLE and changed patterns of medical care utilization and treatment cost for most AIRDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines college students' global competence acquisition at a US and Korean university and assesses the effect of cross- and inter-cultural online projects implemented simultaneously at both universities. The data were collected through a pre- and post-survey of the participating students. The findings were as follows: (1) overall, the projects significantly increased students' intercultural communication skills and knowledge of the other country, (2) among three antecedents, the global mass media had mixed effects on the global competence and the effect of the projects, (3) mass migration was identified as a significant influence on students' global competence and the effect of the projects, and (4) language barriers, technology, and time differences were found to be the main challenges of the project.

Background: Transplant recipients are immunocompromised and vulnerable to developing tuberculosis. However, active tuberculosis incidence is rapidly declining in South Korea, but the trend of tuberculosis infection among transplant recipients has not been elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of active tuberculosis after transplantation, including risk factors for tuberculosis and standardized incidence ratios, compared with that in the general population. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted based on the South Korean health insurance review and assessment database among those who underwent transplantation (62,484 recipients) between 2008 and 2020. Tuberculosis incidence was compared in recipients treated during higher- (2010–2012) and lower-disease burden (2016–2018) periods. Standardized incidence ratios were analyzed using the Korean Tuberculosis Surveillance System. The primary outcome was the number of new tuberculosis cases after transplantation. Results: Of 57,103 recipients analyzed, the overall cumulative incidence rate 1 year after transplantation was 0.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.7–0.8), significantly higher in the higher-burden period than in the lower-burden period (1.7% vs. 1.0% 3 years after transplantation, P < 0.001). Individuals who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation had the highest tuberculosis incidence, followed by those who underwent solid organ transplantation and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (P < 0.001). The overall standardized incidence ratio was 3.9 (95% CI 3.7–4.2) and was the highest in children aged 0–19 years, at 9.0 (95% CI 5.7–13.5). Male sex, older age, tuberculosis history, liver transplantation, and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were risk factors for tuberculosis. Conclusions: Transplant recipients are vulnerable to developing tuberculosis, possibly influenced by their immunocompromised status, solid organ transplant type, age, and community prevalence of tuberculosis. Tuberculosis prevalence by country, transplant type, and age should be considered to establish an appropriate tuberculosis prevention strategy for high-risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The role of visiting health services has been proven to be effective in promoting the health of older populations. Hence, developing a web system for nurses may help improve the quality of visiting health services for community-dwelling frail older adults. This study was conducted to develop a web application that reflects the needs of visiting nurses. Methods: Visiting nurses of public health centers and community centers in South Korea participated in the design and evaluation process. Six nurses took part in the focus group interviews, and 21 visiting nurses and community center managers participated in the satisfaction evaluation. Focus group interviews were conducted to identify the needs of visiting nurses with respect to system function. Based on the findings, a web application that can support the effective delivery of home visiting services in the community was developed. An artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm was also developed to recommend health and welfare services according to each patient's health status. After development, a structured survey was conducted to evaluate user satisfaction with system features using Kano's model. Results: The new system can be used with mobile devices to increase the mobility of visiting nurses. The system includes 13 features that support the management of patient data and enhance the efficiency of visiting services (e.g., map, navigation, scheduler, protocol archives, professional advice, and online case conferencing). The user satisfaction survey revealed that nurses showed high satisfaction with the system. Among all features, the nurses were most satisfied with the care plan, which included AI-based recommendations for community referral. Conclusions: The system developed from the study has attractive features for visiting nurses and supports their essential tasks. The system can help with effective case management for older adults requiring in-home care and reduce nurses' workload. It can also improve communication and networking between healthcare and long-term care institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Retrospective cohort study performed using the newly constructed Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency-COVID-19-National Health Insurance Service (K-COV-N) cohort. • Occurrence of severe COVID-19 evaluated in Korean pediatric solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs). • Pediatric SOTRs have a significantly higher risk of severe COVID-19 than non-SOTRs. • Tailored strategies are required to increase vaccine uptake in high-risk children. The risk of severe COVID-19 in children with a solid organ transplant (SOT) is not well established. We compare the relative risk of severe COVID-19 infection between pediatric SOT and non-SOT children. The newly constructed K-COV-N cohort (Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency-COVID-19-National Health Insurance Service) was used. Children with COVID-19 (<18 years old) who underwent SOT between January 2008 to January 2022 were included. Non-SOT children with COVID-19 were selected in a ratio of 1:4 using propensity score matching. Three definitions of severe COVID-19 were established based on their requirement for respiratory support: severe I (requiring respiratory support above a high-flow nasal cannula or prolonged hospitalization ≥6 days), severe II (requiring any oxygen supplement), and severe III (requiring any oxygen supplement or prolonged hospitalization ≥6 days). Among 2,957,323 children with COVID-19, 206 pediatric SOT recipients (SOTRs) were identified and included in the analysis along with 803 matched non-SOT children. Most infections (96.6%) occurred during the Omicron period; no cases of mortality were reported. Pediatric SOTR had a 3.6-fold (95% confidence interval = 1.1-11.7, P = 0.03) higher risk of severe I, and a 4.9-fold (95% confidence interval = 1.6-15.0, P = 0.006) higher risk of severe III than non-SOT children. No cases of severe II occurred in the non-SOT children. Although not statistically significant, no severe COVID-19 cases were reported in the vaccinated SOT group (0.0% vs 5.7%, P = 0.09 in severe III). Pediatric SOTRs have a significantly higher risk of severe COVID-19 than non-SOT children. Our findings support the need for tailored strategies for these high-risk children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the incidence and risk factors of seizures related to progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in Korean patients infected with HIV. Of the 34 patients, 14 (41.2%) developed epileptic seizures during a median follow-up of 82 months. The median time from PML diagnosis to seizure onset was 44 months, ranging from 0 to 133 months. Patients with PML who developed seizures more commonly had cognitive impairment and multiple or diffuse lesions on brain MRI. These findings highlight the increased seizure risk among HIV-infected patients with PML at any stage of the disease, particularly in cases with extensive involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited data are available on the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) pandemic on encephalitis. Therefore, we evaluated trends in encephalitis in South Korea between 2010 and 2021 using data from the National Health Insurance Service. During the pandemic (February 2020 to 2021), the monthly incidence of encephalitis declined by 0.027 per 100 000 population (95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.055 to 0.001, p = 0.062) compared to that before the pandemic. In subgroup analysis, the estimated coefficient for level change during the pandemic in the 0–4 and 5–9 years age groups were −2.050 (95% CI: −2.972 to −1.128, p < 0.001) and −0.813 (95% CI: −1.399 to −0.227, p = 0.008), respectively. The annual incidence of encephalitis during the pandemic period significantly decreased in the 0–4 and 5–9 years age groups (incidence rate ratio: 0.34 [p = 0.007] and 0.28 [p = 0.024], respectively). The intensive care unit admission rate (39.1% vs. 58.9%, p < 0.001) and cases of death (8.9% vs. 11.1%, p < 0.001) decreased significantly during the pandemic compared to the prepandemic. During the pandemic, the incidence of encephalitis decreased markedly in South Korea, particularly in children aged ≤9 years. In addition, there were changes in the clinical outcome of encephalitis during the COVID‐19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Live immunization is contraindicated in patients with DiGeorge syndrome (DGS). We retrospectively investigated the occurrence of adverse events after live immunization in patients with DGS in Korea. The data of patients matching the International Classification of Disease-10 code of DGS (D82.1) at Severance Hospital Seoul, Korea, were extracted; patients without genetically diagnosed DGS were excluded. Based on T cell immunity status, the included patients were categorized into group A (CD3 < 500 or CD8 < 200 cells/mm3); group B (CD3 ≥ 500 and CD8 ≥ 200 cells/mm3); or group C (unknown). Among 94 patients, 38 (~40%, group A: 8 [21%]; group B: 30 [79%]) underwent immunological testing and 73 (~80%) received at least one live immunization (measles–mumps–rubella vaccination was most common [66/94, ~70%]). Fifty adverse events (fever [n = 29], upper respiratory infection [n = 9], diarrhea [n = 4], rash [n = 3], thrombocytopenia [n = 3], injection site pus [n = 1], and febrile convulsion [n = 1]) were observed; 13 (26%) occurred in group A, with no significant difference in incidence between groups A and B. Serious adverse events, including intensive care unit hospitalization or death, or diseases due to vaccine strains were not observed. In this study, live immunization was well tolerated by patients with partial DGS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a highly heterogeneous disease that can affect any organ. Extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) is more difficult to diagnose due to various clinical presentations. Depending on the characteristics of the patient, the involved site of TB may vary. However, data on clinical characteristics of EPTB are inconsistent and insufficient. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of patients with pulmonary TB (PTB) and EPTB and describe characteristic differences for each involved site.Methods: We systemically collected data of TB patients included in the national surveillance system in South Korea from July 2018 to June 2019 and compared the characteristics of patients with EPTB with that of PTB.Results: A total of 7674 patients with a mean age of 60.9 years were included. Among them, 6038 (78.7%) patients were diagnosed with PTB and 1636 (21.3%) with EPTB. In PTB group, the mean age (61.7 ± 18.7 vs. 57.8 ± 19.9) and proportion of male sex (63.3% vs. 50.1%) were higher, but the body mass index was lower (21.2 ± 3.4 vs. 22.7 ± 3.5) than that of the EPTB group. Prevalence of diabetes (20.5% vs. 16.9%) and chronic lung disease (5.1% vs. 2.9%) were higher in PTB group, meanwhile, those of chronic kidney disease (CKD) (2.7% vs. 5.4%) and long-term steroid use (0.4% vs. 1.0%) were higher in EPTB group. Abdominal TB was more prevalent in patients with chronic liver disease (odds ratio [OR]: 2.69, 95% CI: 1.52-4.74), and urogenital TB was more prevalent in patients with CKD (OR: 2.75, 95% CI: 1.08-6.99).Conclusions: We found that underlying comorbidities were closely associated with the location of TB development, and therefore, the possibility of EPTB should be carefully evaluated while monitoring for underlying disease in TB-endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2018, the World Health Organization recommended a 6-month four-drug regimen (rifampicin, ethambutol, pyrazinamide, and levofloxacin) for the treatment of isoniazid-monoresistant tuberculosis. However, the regimen had very low certainty. This cohort study assessed the impact of fluoroquinolone use and initial baseline regimen on treatment effectiveness in isoniazid-monoresistant tuberculosis. This multicenter retrospective cohort study included 318 patients with isoniazid-monoresistant tuberculosis notified between 2011 and 2018 in Korea. Baseline regimens were classified into two groups, namely 6–9-month rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide (6-9REZ) and a combination regimen of 2-month rifampicin, ethambutol, pyrazinamide and 7–10-month rifampicin and ethambutol (2REZ/7-10RE). Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess factors associated with positive treatment outcomes. Of 318 enrolled patients, 234 (73.6%) were treated with the 6-9REZ and 103 (32.4%) with additional fluoroquinolone. In a multivariable logistic regression model comparing the 6-9REZ and 2REZ/7-10RE groups, there was no difference in the odds of positive outcomes (adjusted odds ratio = 1.08, 95% confidence interval = 0.65–1.82). Addition use of fluoroquinolone was not associated with positive treatment outcomes in the whole cohort (adjusted odds ratio = 1.41, 95% confidence interval = 0.87–2.27); however, its additional use was beneficial in the 2REZ/7-10RE subgroup (adjusted odds ratio = 3.58, 95% confidence interval = 1.32–9.75). Both initial baseline regimens, 6-9REZ and 2REZ/7-10RE, were similarly effective. Shortening of the pyrazinamide administration duration with additional fluoroquinolone use could be a safe alternative for patients with potential hepatotoxicity related to pyrazinamide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The south coast of Korea is vulnerable to coastal disasters, such as storm surges, high waves, wave overtopping, and coastal flooding caused by typhoons. It is imperative to predict such disastrous events accurately in advance, which requires accurate meteorological forcing for coastal ocean modeling. In this study, to acquire accurate meteorological data as important forcing variables for the prediction of storm surges and waves, we examined the forecast performance and applicability of a next-generation global weather/climate prediction model, the Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS). We compared the modeled surface pressure and wind with observations on the south coast of Korea for three typhoons that damaged Korea in 2020—Bavi, Maysak, and Haishen—and investigated the accuracy of these observations with the MPAS prediction. Those meteorological forcing variables were then used in the tightly coupled tide-surge-wave model, Advanced CIRCulation (ADCIRC) and the Simulating Waves Nearshore (SWAN) for the simulation of a typhoon-induced storm surge and wave. We also performed the hindcast of the wave and storm surges using a parametric tropical cyclone model, the best-track-based Generalized Asymmetric Holland Model (GAHM) embedded in ADCIRC+SWAN, to better understand the forecast performance and applicability of MPAS. We compared the forecast results of the typhoon-induced wave and storm surges with their hindcast in terms of the time-series and statistical indices for both significant wave height and storm surge height and found that wave and storm surge prediction forced by MPAS forecast provides a comparable accuracy with the hindcast. Comparable results of MPAS forcing with that of hindcast using best track information are encouraging because ADCIRC+SWAN forced by MPAS forecast with an at most four-day lead time still provides a reasonable prediction of wave and storm surges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We aimed to identify chironomid species collected from four large rivers in South Korea, construct a corresponding DNA barcode library, and examine the distribution and community structure of the identified riverine species. Adult chironomids were identified morphologically, and their COI nucleotide sequences were used to verify species identification and construct a DNA barcode library. The resulting COI library effectively discriminated >90% of riverine Chironomidae in South Korea. The distributional aspects of chironomid species in the four large rivers of South Korea are also discussed. Most large rivers in South Korea run through major cities, which often experience many environmental problems, including outbreaks of non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae). However, chironomid species inhabiting large rivers have not been thoroughly investigated. We aimed to identify chironomid species collected from the four main large rivers in South Korea, construct a corresponding DNA barcode library, and examine the distribution and community structure of the identified riverine species. Adult chironomids were collected from nine sites along the rivers by using sweep nets and light traps during June and August 2015. Adults were morphologically identified, and COI nucleotide sequences were generated to verify the species identification and construct a DNA barcode library. The distribution and community structure of the identified species were also analyzed. A total of 124 COI sequences were established from 37 species belonging to 19 genera, and the resulting DNA barcode library effectively discriminated >90% of riverine Chironomidae in South Korea. Ten species, which are considered indicator species for large rivers, were collected from all four rivers. In addition, members of the subfamily Chironominae were collected more frequently than members of other subfamilies, with Tanytarsus tamagotoi being the most common and widespread chironomid species in South Korea. The DNA barcode library developed in this study will facilitate environmental studies of large rivers, such as biomonitoring chironomid larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although non-teaching community hospitals form the majority of healthcare providers in South Korea, there is limited data on antibiotic usage in them. To evaluate the pattern of antibiotic usage and its appropriateness in hospitals with < 400 beds in South Korea. Methods: A multicentre retrospective study was conducted in 10 hospitals (six long-term care hospitals, three acute care hospitals, and one orthopaedic hospital), with < 400 beds in South Korea. We analysed patterns of antibiotic prescription in 2019, and their appropriateness in the participating hospitals. For the evaluation of the appropriateness of the prescription, 25 patients under antibiotic therapy were randomly selected at each hospital, over two separate periods. Due to the heterogeneity of their characteristics, the orthopaedics hospital was excluded from the analysis. Results: The most commonly prescribed antibiotics in long-term care hospitals was fluoroquinolone, followed by beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor (anti-pseudomonal). In acute care hospitals, these were third generation cephalosporin, followed by first generation cephalosporin, and second generation cephalosporin. The major antibiotics that were prescribed in the orthopedics hospital was first generation cephalosporin Only 2.3% of the antibiotics were administered inappropriately. In comparison, 15.3% of patients were prescribed an inappropriate dose. The proportion of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions was 30.6% of the total antibiotic prescriptions. Conclusions: The antibiotic usage patterns vary between non-teaching community hospitals in South Korea. The proportion of inappropriate prescriptions exceeded 30% of the total antibiotic prescriptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The surge in cross-border acquisitions of Korean businesses, following the 1997 Asian Crisis, raised strong debates about the strategic motivations of foreign investors and the failings of selling firms. This article assesses their impact on the governance, management, and competitiveness of the resulting joint ventures and newly-formed enterprises. Contrary to local perceptions, 'fire-sales' and financial opportunism had not motivated foreign buyers, which sought to transform their acquisitions. Nor does government pressure to reform or poor liquidity fully explain the strategies of their Korean counterparts. Through case studies, the article provides insights into the long-term development of governance and management in Korean business. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to find out the change in the rate and pattern of suicide attempts during severe acute respiratory syndrome COVID-19 pandemic period. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of data collected as a part of an emergency room-based post-suicide management program. The data were collected through interviews and from medical records of suicide attempts, maintained in the emergency room, from January 19 to October 31, 2020, during the "COVID-19 period," and those who attempted suicide from January 19 to October 31, 2019 "pre-COVID-19 period." We extracted educational background, marital status, occupation, presence of domestic partner, history of mental illness, alcohol consumption, history of previous suicide attempts; suicide attempt method and location (i.e., at home or a place other than home) at the time of attempt, and whether the attempt was a mass suicide. In addition, we compared patient severity between "COVID-19 period" and "pre-COVID-19 period" using the initial KTAS (South Korean triage and acuity scale) level, consciousness level, and systolic blood pressure. In 2012, KTAS was developed through the Ministry of Health and Welfare's research project to establish triage system in South Korea. Results: The analysis of the number of suicide attempts during "pre-COVID-19 period" and " COVID-19 period" showed that the number of suicide attempts during "COVID-19 period" (n = 440) increased compared to the "pre-COVID-19 period" (n = 400). Moreover, the method of suicide attempts during "COVID-19 period" included overdose of drugs such as hypnotics, antipsychotics, and pesticides that were already possessed by the patient increased compared to the "pre-COVID-19 period" (P < 0.05). At the time of the visit to the emergency room, high KTAS level, low level of consciousness, and low systolic blood pressure, were observed, which were significantly different between "COVID-19 period" and "pre-COVID-19 period" (P < 0.05). Conclusion: With the worldwide COVID-19 virus spread, suicide rate and suicide attempts at home have significantly increased. In addition, patient severity was higher in the "COVID-19 period" than that in the "pre-COVID-19 period." The increasing suicide attempt rate should be controlled by cooperation between the emergency room and regional organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Gram-stain-negative, strictly aerobic, non-flagellated, rod-shaped bacterium, designated GSB7T, was isolated from seawater collected at the Yellow Sea coast of South Korea. Catalase and oxidase activities were positive. Growth occurred at pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum pH 7.0), 10–40 °C (optimum 30 °C) and with 0–8% NaCl (optimum 1–2%). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain GSB7T belonged to the genus Marivivens, showing the sequence similarities of 96.3, 96.1, and 96.0% with Marivivens niveibacter HSLHS2T, Limimaricola hongkongensis DSM17492T, and Marivivens donghaensis AM-4T, respectively. The respiratory quinone was ubiquinone-10 and the major fatty acids were summed feature 8 (C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c), C18:1ω7c 11-methyl, C16:0 and C10:0 3-OH. The polar lipids comprised phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified aminolipid, and five unidentified lipids. The DNA G + C content calculated from the whole-genome sequence was 60.6 mol%. On the basis of phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and genotypic characteristics presented in this study, strain GSB7T is suggested to represent a novel species of the genus Marivivens, for which the name Marivivens aquimaris sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is GSB7T (= KCTC 82026T = JCM 34042T). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The early detection of uveitis associated with systemic inflammatory disease in children is important for proper treatment and prognosis. However, the diagnosis may be delayed because of difficulties in childhood examinations and early minor systemic symptoms. The objective of our study was to identify the pattern of childhood uveitis and investigate the frequency and clinical features of rheumatic diseases in pediatric patients with uveitis. Methods: This retrospective observational study reviewed the medical records of children (age ≤ 18 years) with uveitis at a Korean tertiary hospital between January 2005 and December 2018. Data collected included the age at onset of uveitis, sex, anatomic location of ocular inflammation, comorbid disease (including systemic inflammatory disease), ocular complications, relevant laboratory data, and treatment. Fisher's exact test was used to compare categorical variables and the Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare continuous variables. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 155 pediatric patients with uveitis were included in this study. The median age at diagnosis was 13.0 years (interquartile range, 9.5–16.0 years). The male-to-female ratio was 1.09. The process was unilateral in 51.6% of children. Anterior uveitis, panuveitis, intermediate uveitis, and posterior uveitis represented 51.6, 26.5, 6.5, and 1.9% of the cases, respectively. Idiopathic uveitis (65.2%) was the most frequent type of uveitis. Systemic rheumatic disease associations were responsible for 28.4% of the cases, among which juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) was the most frequent cause (14.8%). Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 and antinuclear antibody (ANA) positive rates were significantly higher in patients with JIA than in those with idiopathic uveitis (p = 0.006 and p = 0.007, respectively). Conclusions: Approximately one-third of children with uveitis in Korea have a systemic rheumatic disease, of which JIA accounts for the majority of cases. HLA-B27 and ANA can serve as risk factors for JIA-associated uveitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Many countries have implemented nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to slow the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We aimed to determine whether NPIs led to the decline in the incidences of respiratory infections. Methods We conducted a retrospective, ecological study using a nationwide notifiable diseases database and a respiratory virus sample surveillance collected from January 2016 through July 2020 in the Republic of Korea. Intervention period was defined as February–July 2020, when the government implemented NPIs nationwide. Observed incidences in the intervention period were compared with the predicted incidences by an autoregressive integrated moving average model and the 4-year mean cumulative incidences (CuIs) in the same months of the preintervention period. Results Five infectious diseases met the inclusion criteria: chickenpox, mumps, invasive pneumococcal disease, scarlet fever, and pertussis. The incidences of chickenpox and mumps during the intervention period were significantly lower than the prediction model. The CuIs (95% confidence interval) of chickenpox and mumps were 36.4% (23.9–76.3%) and 63.4% (48.0–93.3%) of the predicted values. Subgroup analysis showed that the decrease in the incidence was universal for chickenpox, while mumps showed a marginal reduction among those aged <18 years, but not in adults. The incidence of respiratory viruses was significantly lower than both the predicted incidence (19.5%; 95% confidence interval, 11.8–55.4%) and the 4-year mean CuIs in the preintervention period (24.5%; P  < .001). Conclusions The implementation of NPIs was associated with a significant reduction in the incidences of several respiratory infections in Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Korean universal childcare subsidy reduceed total child-rearing costs but not out-of-pocket childcare expense and affected childcare cost differently by mothers' working status. This study aims to investigate the effects of universal child care and early education subsidy on child-rearing cost burdens, and examine the extent to which this association differs depending on mothers' working status in South Korea. Using the Korea Welfare Panel Study (KOWEPS) and a fixed effects panel model, we found that child care and early education subsidy usage is associated with a reduction of total child-rearing costs, but not much out-of-pocket child care expenses. Furthermore, the introduction of universal child care and early education subsidy is likely to benefit households with part-time working mothers in terms of reducing total child-rearing cost burden, but it increased out-of-pocket child care cost in households where mothers were not working. The child care and early education subsidy achieved the aim of reducing household financial burden associated with parenthood, and enabling parents to combine their paid work with parenthood—in particular for mothers with part-time jobs. However, full-time working mothers are limited in enjoying the benefits of the subsidy. Our findings regarding South Korea's child care and early education system provide important insights for emerging and developing economies that are increasingly showing an interest in instituting new child care and early education systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What is known and Objective: Understanding investigational medications is important. Many older drugs are being investigated for repurposing against COVID‐19. We comment on various drugs currently undergoing such trials to optimize their safe use. Comment: We describe medications used during early COVID‐19 outbreaks in South Korea, focusing on practice aspects including the method of drug administration, drug formulation, patient‐monitoring for adverse reactions and drug interactions informed by our experience during the 2015 outbreak of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). We comment on hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, lopinavir/ritonavir with zinc supplement, remdesivir, tocilizumab, ciclesonide, niclosamide and high‐dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG). What is new and conclusion: Effective therapies are urgently needed to manage COVID‐19, and existing drugs such as antivirals and antimalarials are under investigation for repurposing to meet this need. This process requires up‐to‐date drug information to ensure optimum use, particularly safety and efficacy profiles of the medications, until convincing evidence is reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose : This study aimed to identify the prevalence and risk factors of cognitive impairment in survivors discharged from the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods : This secondary analysis study utilized data from a multicenter prospective cohort of post-ICU patients. We analyzed the data of 175 patients enrolled in the primary cohort who completed the cognitive function evaluation three months after ICU discharge. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale. The cut-off points for cognitive impairment were < 23 for face-to-face evaluation and < 18 for telephone evaluation. Results : The prevalence of cognitive impairment three months after ICU discharge was 32.6%. Significant risk factors for cognitive impairment were age ≥ 60 years (OR=10.52, 95% CI=3.65-30.33, p<.001), education < high school graduation (OR=2.53, 95% CI=1.07-6.01, p=.035), unplanned ICU admission (OR=4.01, 95% CI=1.45-11.14, p=.008), and delirium in the ICU (OR=4.33, 95% CI=1.08-17.23, p=.038). Conclusion : ICU nurses should use preemptive strategies to reduce post-ICU cognitive impairment of patients with risk factors. It is necessary to frequently assess and detect early delirium in critically ill patients, while attempting various non-pharmacological interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of mental health problems in patients discharged from the intensive care unit (ICU). Methods : This was a secondary analysis study using data from a multicenter prospective cohort of post-ICU patients. We analyzed data of 311 patients enrolled in the primary cohort study who responded to the mental health questionnaire three months after the discharge. Anxiety and depression were measured on the Hospital Anxiety-Depression Scale, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was measured on the Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale. Results : The prevalence of anxiety, depression, and PTSD in patients at three months after ICU discharge were 25.7%, 17.4%, and 18.0%, respectively, and 7.7% of them experienced all three problems. Unemployment (OR=1.99, p=.033) and unplanned ICU admission (OR=2.28, p=.017) were risk factors for depression, while women gender (OR=2.34, p=.009), comorbid diseases (OR=2.88, p=.004), non-surgical ICUs (trauma ICU: OR=7.31, p=.002, medical ICU: OR=3.72, p=.007, neurological ICU: OR=2.95, p=.019) and delirium (OR=2.89, p=.009) were risk factors for PTSD. Conclusion : ICU nurses should proactively monitor risk factors for post-ICU mental health problems. In particular, guidelines on the detection and management of delirium in critically ill patients should be observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) is rare but fatal in asplenia patients. • We assessed the age-adjusted IPD incidence rate using national population data. • Relative risk of IPD was 32.0-times higher in patients with asplenia/hyposplenism. • Particularly, patients aged <5 years are the most vulnerable to IPD. We aimed to determine the incidence and relative risk (RR) of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in patients with asplenia/hyposplenism, using a nationwide population-based database. From 2009 to 2018, all claimed cases of newly diagnosed asplenia/hyposplenism in the National Health Insurance Service in South Korea were included. The incidence and RR of IPD in asplenia/hyposplenism patients were investigated using the Korean Center for Disease Control criteria. Fifty-seven IPD cases were identified among 21,376 patients with 82,748 person-years of exposure. The cumulative 8-year IPD incidence was 0.5%; 45.6% of the infections occurred within two years after an asplenia/hyposplenism diagnosis. The age-standardised incidence rate was 104.5 per 100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI], 103.6–105.4). Patients aged <5 years had a 15.1-times higher risk of IPD than those aged ≥60 years (95% CI: 5.8–39.5, p < 0.0001). The RR of IPD was 32.0 times higher in patients with asplenia/hyposplenism than in the general population (95% CI, 21.7–47.0); the standardized incidence ratio was 17.9(95% CI, 11.8–26.0). This large population-based study highlights the high IPD incidence rate and RR in Korean patients with asplenia/hyposplenism. Increased awareness and effective prevention strategies are needed for these high-risk populations, especially children aged <5 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the ways in which collaboration in audiovisual translation is approached and portrayed by different parties involved in the transnational distribution and consumption of cultural products. It considers the case of the Korean translation of Spy, an American action comedy spy film that was praised by many critics for its feminist message. Prior to its release in Korea, the film became widely known for its translators, which included a high-profile comedian, comedy scriptwriters, and a professional translator. Drawing on the concepts of 'framing' and 'voice', the present study shows how collaborative translation was used as a tool by the distributor to promote and market the film and to extend its commercial reach. The paper also argues that today's viewers are not passive audiences. Empowered by social networks and digital devices, they actively share reviews and engage in discussions concerning translation method and quality, translators' identities, and translation effects. Linking collaborative translation to what they see as the 'flattening' of a feminist voice and the insertion in the film of humor that reinforces unequal gender relations, many audiences actively resisted the distributor's portrayal of collaborative translation as an optimal way to translate the film. The findings have implications for enhancing our understanding of collaborative translation work, translation of humor within the Korean cultural context, and perceptions on the connection between translation quality and collaborative translation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is a major healthcare concern worldwide. Here, we analyzed age-related trends in DR-TB rates in South Korea.Methods: Drug susceptibility test results were collected from patients with culture-confirmed TB between 2015 and 2018 from eight university-affiliated hospitals. Patients were divided into three subgroups: younger (15-34 years), middle (35-59 years), and older (≥60 years) to compare drug-resistance patterns. To evaluate trends in age-stratified drug-resistance, chi-square test for linear trends was performed.Results: Among enrolled native patients aged ≥15 years, 4.1% (179/4417), 1.2% (53/4417) and 7.2% (316/4417) were multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), rifampicin-mono-resistant TB (RR-TB), and isoniazid-mono-resistant TB (Hr-TB), respectively. Proportions of Hr-TB cases were 5.4% (40/734), 7.2% (114/1593), and 7.8% (162/2090) in the younger, middle and older age groups, respectively. MDR/RR-TB case rates decreased significantly with age from 8.6% (63/734) in younger age group to 3.3% (68/2090) in older age group. Fluoroquinolone resistance was highest among second-line drugs, and there were no differences in resistance to fluoroquinolones and second-line injectable drugs among the three age groups.Conclusions: The number of MDR/RR-TB cases was highest in young patients. Effective public health interventions should include increased focus on rifampicin resistance in young patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Even long-term antiviral prophylaxis in hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients was recommend as standard preventive stratagem for varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection, epidemiology of VZV infection in pediatric autologous HCT recipients is uncertain. • The incidence of VZV infection differs by age. • Difference of VZV infection was evaluated between single and tandem autologous HCTs. • We explored the risk factors for severe VZV infection in the pediatric autologous HCT population. Although long-term antiviral prophylaxis is recommended to prevent varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection in seropositive recipients of allogeneic and autologous (auto-) hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), studies of VZV infections in pediatric auto-HCT recipients are rare. This study aimed to investigate the incidence and characteristics of VZV infection in pediatric auto-HCT recipients and explore the risk factors of VZV infection and its effect on survival outcomes. This study included all pediatric patients who underwent auto-HCT at Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Korea, between January 1998 and December 2013. Before 2006, short-term acyclovir prophylaxis was provided until neutrophil engraftment; thereafter, routine prophylaxis was not provided. Patients who developed either herpes zoster or chickenpox within 2 years from transplantation were identified, and a chart review was performed. A total of 413 recipients and 698 auto-HCTs were included. Sixty-one episodes of VZV infections were identified in 54 patients. Fourteen cases of VZV infection (23%; 14 of 61) occurred within 30 days after auto-HCT. The cumulative incidence of the first episode of VZV infection at 2 years after transplantation was 14% (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.9% to 22.8%) in all recipients and 9% (95% CI, 1.0 to 26.6) in VZV-seronegative patients. Notably, the VZV infection rate increased with age and the VZV infection rate in patients age 15 to 19 years was almost three times higher than in patients age 0 to 4 years (28% versus 10%; P =.003). However, there was no difference in the VZV infection rate between recipients of single auto-HCT and recipients of tandem auto-HCT. Two patients died of disseminated VZV infection. VZV infection is a considerable risk in auto-HCT recipients with or without short-term prophylaxis. Universal antiviral prophylaxis might be considered, particularly in older children, regardless of VZV serologic results. To our knowledge, this is the largest study of VZV infection in pediatric auto-HCT recipients reported to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Numerous factors affect the surgical outcomes in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD). However, no study has examined the relationship between residence and physical factors and surgical outcomes in patients with ASD. Here, we analysed the impact of residence and physical factors on the post-operative outcomes of patients with ASD residing in urban (U) and rural (R) environments.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed data from patients who had undergone ASD surgery with sacropelvic fixation at a single institution between June 2011 and May 2017 with a minimum 1 year follow-up. We divided the patients into two groups (U and R). Preoperative demographic data were reviewed, and radiographic parameters were measured preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, at 1, 3, and 6 months, and at the final follow-up. The L4 axial paraspinal muscles were measured preoperatively using magnetic resonance imaging.Results: There were 25 and 34 patients in the U and R groups, respectively. Both groups had similar preoperative demographic and radiological parameters. There were no differences between the groups in post-operative radiographic parameters, clinical outcomes, and complications, but proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) was significantly higher in the R group. Additionally, muscle mass in the multifidus and erector spinae was lower in the R than in the U group.Conclusions: Patient residence influenced PJK in patients with ASD. Mass reduction in the trunk extensor muscle is an important and existing risk factor for PJK. Surgeons should be aware of this information for preoperative counselling, informed consent, and post-operative education of patients with ASD. These slides can be retrieved from Electronic Supplementary Material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species diversity in the genus Ulva remains understudied worldwide. Using molecular analyses we investigated the species composition, diversity, distribution, and relative frequencies of the genus Ulva along the entire coast of Jeju Island, off the southern tip of Korea. Species identification was performed for 215 samples collected from 23 sites, based on comprehensive phylogenetic and model-based species delimitation analyses using the sequences of two molecular markers, chloroplast elongation factor Tu (tufA) and nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS). We identified 193 specimens as nine Ulva species, 14 specimens as Blidingia spp., and eight samples undetermined, based on the combined analysis of tufA and ITS phylogenies. Two model-based approaches generally supported nine groups of Ulva species. Previously documented species complex, such as U. ohnoi−U. spinulosa and U. procera−U. linza showed discordant relationships between the two phylogenies. The occurrence of U. torta on Jeju Island was first observed, despite its existence on the mainland previously reported. Ulva australis [16 of 23 sites; 34.4% (relative frequency)], U. ohnoi (16; 21.9%), and U. procera (11; 14%) were found to be the predominant species. Our study highlights that molecular analysis is critical for species delimitation in the genus Ulva and provides fundamental information for an understanding of green-tide assemblages on the “biological hotspot” coastal ecosystem, Jeju Island in Korea. This study will also help to monitor and manage local green tides at the areas that are currently encountering rapid climate changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated the characteristics and clinical outcomes of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)‐related pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) hospitalization and assessed the palivizumab (PZ) prophylaxis eligibility according to different guidelines from Korea, EU, and USA. Methods: In this multicenter study, children <18 years of age hospitalized in six PICU from different hospitals due to severe RSV infection between September 2008 and March 2013 were included. A retrospective chart review was performed. Results: A total of 92 patients were identified. The median length of PICU stay was 6 days (range, 1–154 days) and median PICU care cost was USD2,741 (range, USD556–98 243). Of 62 patients who were <2 years old at the beginning of the RSV season, 33 (53.2%) were high‐risk patients for severe RSV infection. Hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease (22.6%) was the most common risk factor, followed by chronic lung disease (11.3%), neuromuscular disease or congenital abnormality of the airway (NMD/CAA) (11.3%), and prematurity (8.1%). The percentage of patients eligible for PZ prophylaxis ranged from 38.7% to 48.4% based on the guidelines, but only two (2.2%) received PZ ≤30 days prior to PICU admission. The median duration of mechanical ventilation was longer in children with NDM/CAA than in those without risk factors (26 days; range, 24–139 days vs 6 days, range, 2–68 days, P = 0.033). RSV‐attributable mortality was 5.4%. Conclusions: Children <2 years old with already well‐known high risks represent a significant proportion of RSV‐related PICU admissions. Increasing of the compliance for PZ prophylaxis practice among physicians is needed. Further studies are needed to investigate the burden of RSV infection in patients hospitalized in PICU, including children with NMD/CAA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA barcoding of aquatic macroinvertebrates holds much promise as a tool for taxonomic research and for providing baseline reference for phylogenetic analysis and aquatic ecosystem biomonitoring. We obtained 112 novel sequences of the barcode region of the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene representing 11 families, 25 genera, and 43 species of mayfly (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) from South Korea. No species shared barcode sequences and all can be identified with barcodes with a possible exception of some species. Minimum levels of interspecific genetic distances ranged from 6.7 to 32.9% (mean: 23.7%), whereas average levels of intraspecific divergence was 3.7%. The latter value was inflated by the presence of very high divergences within some taxa. In fact, approximately 33.3% (15/45) of the species included two or more haplotype clusters showing greater than 5.0% sequence divergence and some values were as high as 32.9%. Many of the species with high intraspecific divergences are para‐ or polyphyletic and represent the possibility of species complexes. Our study suggests that type or topotype specimens should be sequenced to identify accurate barcoding clusters with morphological species concepts and also to determine the status of currently synonymized species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 5.5 magnitude (Mw) earthquake in Pohang, South Korea in 2017 was one of the largest triggered earthquakes at an enhanced geothermal system (EGS) site. Faults that ruptured in Pohang were not identified by preliminary geological investigations or geophysical surveys, and the subsequent study of the fault rocks at the Pohang EGS site was limited to depths of 3790–3816 m. In this study, we present new observations of fault rocks from drill cuttings retrieved from the Pohang EGS. The drill cuttings obtained from 3256 to 3911 m contained "mud balls," which showed a clay matrix with foliation and a cataclastic texture, indicating a typical fault gouge or breccia. Furthermore, the mud ball samples retrieved from depths of 3256 m and 3260 m contained black fragments. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the black fragments consisted of glass-like material, which is indicative of frictional melting during coseismic slip. The presence of these black fragments suggests that at least one seismic event had occurred at the Pohang EGS site prior to the hydraulic stimulation test. • Drill cuttings from the Pohang enhanced geothermal system (EGS) site were studied. • Drill cuttings contained "mud balls" with a typical fault gouge structure. • Some mud balls contained black fragments, consisting of amorphous material. • Black fragments may be a result of frictional melting during the coseismic slip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Ha, H.K.; Seo, J.Y.; Jung, Y.H.; Ha. H.J.; Kim, S.B.; Kang, J.W.; Kim, Y.H., and Ryu, J., 2018. Dynamics of sediment resuspension in the inner harbor under different forcing conditions: A case study of Ulsan, Korea. In: Shim, J.-S.; Chun, I., and Lim, H.S. (eds.), Proceedings from the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) 2018 (Busan, Republic of Korea). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 85, pp. 451–455. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. Bottom mooring data of currents and backscatter strength derived from a 1200-kHz acoustic Doppler current profiler were collected in the inner Onsan Harbor, Ulsan during the summer season (July 5 to August 5, 2016). The mean volume backscattering strength (MVBS), which is a proxy of suspended sediment concentration (SSC), continued to exhibit distinct signatures of sediment erosion (or resuspension) under different forcing conditions such as tides, winds, and precipitation. Results exhibit the different patterns of sediment resuspension between spring and neap tides. During spring tide, the extensive tidal forcing provided a favorable condition to resuspend sediments trapped near the bed. The MVBS with high SSC was consistently recorded. During neap tide, on the other hand, the MVBS with high SSC was intermittently recorded, which was related to the strong wind events. While the flow was being intensified by winds, the short-lasting (2–4 hours) sharp spikes of MVBS were observed. The stratification developed by increased precipitation might cause to block the upward transport of sediments near the bed, even though the strong winds (>13.6 m s−1) lasted over 4 days. These outcomes could give insight into the complexity of hydrodynamics and sediment transport occurring in the harbor where various natural and artificial forcings are combined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the associations among social network types, multiple health conditions, and various health-care use. Data came from the 2006 and 2008 wave of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging. A two-step cluster analytical approach was used to identify social network types. Regression models determined associations between social network types, health changes, and health-care use, including checkups, outpatient service, traditional medicine use, and hospitalization. Four social network types (restricted, couple focused, friend, and diverse) were found. Compared with the restricted type, individuals in the couple-focused type were more likely to use traditional medicine and outpatient care; members in the diverse type were more likely to use traditional medicine. The interaction model revealed varying associations between health change and social network on health-care use. Findings reveal the culturally contextualized association among multiple health conditions and how social network type moderates the relationship with health-care use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discrepant incidence has been reported regarding the incidence of herb-induced liver injury (HILI). To address the growing worldwide concern of HILI, we evaluated the risk of HILI in a nationwide prospective study. Between April 2013 and January 2016, 1001 inpatients (360 males and 641 females) from 10 tertiary hospitals throughout South Korea were treated with herbal drugs and had their liver enzymes periodically measured. A total of six patients met the criteria for HILI with RUCAM scores ranging from 4 to 7. All these participants were women and developed the hepatocellular type of HILI. One HILI participant met the criteria for Hy's law; however, none of six cases presented clinical symptoms related to liver injury. This is the first nationwide prospective study that estimated the extent of the incidence of HILI [total: 0.60%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.12-1.08; women: 0.95%, 95% CI 0.19-1.68] and described its features in hospitalized participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This study reports the humoral immunogenicity (HI) after the third dose of mRNA vaccine in solid organ transplant recipients. • HI among SARS-CoV-2 wildtype, Delta, and Omicron variants was compared. • HI of a homologous vaccination schedule was similar to a heterologous vaccination schedule. • Three doses of wildtype mRNA vaccine provided minimal neutralization activity against the Omicron variant. • High wildtype spike EIA results despite low neutralization rates indicate a false reassurance of protection against the Omicron variant. : Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are susceptible to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, immunogenicity studies of the Omicron variants per vaccination schedules are still lacking. We examined humoral immunogenicity following third-dose mRNA vaccine administration in Korean SOTRs who received primary COVID-19 vaccine series on homologous or heterologous schedules. : We recruited SOTRs at Severance Hospital from October 27, 2021, to March 31, 2022. Blood samples were collected between 14 days and 5 months after the second and third mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273) doses. SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike IgG titer was analyzed. The neutralization inhibition rate was analyzed using the surrogate neutralization assay for the wild-type, Delta, and Omicron variants. : No significant differences existed in the SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike IgG positivity rate between the homologous BNT162b2/BNT162b2/BNT162b2 (85%) and other heterologous groups (83% of ChAdOx1/ChAdOx1/BNT162b2, 90% of ChAdOx1/ChAdOx1/mRNA-1273, and 78% of ChAdOx1/BNT162b2/BNT162b2). No significant difference existed in the neutralization inhibition rates between the four groups for wild-type, Delta, and Omicron variants. Median neutralization inhibition rates against the Omicron variant (2–5%) were significantly lower than those against the wild-type (87–97%) and Delta (55–89%) variants (P < 0.001). : Regardless of the schedule, the neutralization inhibition rate against the Omicron variant was poor; therefore, additional preventive measures are required in such high-risk populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: After the 2015 Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) outbreak in Korea, prediction of pneumonia development and progression to respiratory failure was emphasized in control of MERS outbreak.Methods: MERS-CoV infected patients who were managed in a tertiary care center during the 2015 Korean MERS outbreak were reviewed. To analyze predictive factors for pneumonia development and progression to respiratory failure, we evaluated clinical variables measured within three days from symptom onset.Results: A total of 45 patients were included in the study: 13 patients (28.9%) did not develop pneumonia, 19 developed pneumonia without respiratory failure (42.2%), and 13 progressed to respiratory failures (28.9%). The identified predictive factors for pneumonia development included age ≥45 years, fever ≥37.5 °C, thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, CRP ≥ 2 mg/dL, and a threshold cycle value of PCR less than 28.5. For respiratory failure, the indicators included male, hypertension, low albumin concentration, thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, and CRP ≥ 4 mg/dL (all P < 0.05). With ≥ two predictive factors for pneumonia development, 100% of patients developed pneumonia. Patients lacking the predictive factors did not progress to respiratory failure.Conclusion: For successful control of MERS outbreak, MERS-CoV infected patients with ≥ two predictive factors should be intensively managed from the initial presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Despite its shortcomings, the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) is widely used to assess clinical symptoms and measure therapeutic changes in patients with fibromyalgia (FM). Recently, the revised version of the FIQ (FIQR) was released. In this study, we validated the Korean version of the FIQR and evaluated whether the revised version is superior to the original version in reflecting the physical function and quality of life of these patients. Methods: Seventy-nine patients with FM were invited to complete a questionnaire that included the original FIQ, FIQR, Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ), Rheumatology Attitudes Index (RAI), and Medical Outcome Study Short-Form 36 (SF-36). Results: The test-retest reliability was assessed in 55 patients after 1 week, and the Spearman coefficients were 0.604-0.825 and Cronbach's alpha was 0.948 (95% confidence interval 0.930-0.964). The FIQR was significantly correlated with the pain visual analogue scale (VAS), fatigue VAS, RAI, MDHAQ, and physical and mental component summary scores of the SF-36. The FIQR was more strongly associated with the MDHAQ and SF-36 scores than with the original FIQ. Conclusion: Our study showed that the FIQR is a reliable, valid instrument for assessing patients with FM and performs better in the prediction of physical function and health status than the original version. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To predict extreme weather events, we conducted high-resolution global atmosphere modeling and simulation using high-performance computing. Using a new-generation global weather/climate prediction model called MPAS (Model for Prediction Across Scales) with variable resolution, we tested strong scalability on the KISTI (Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information) supercomputer NURION. In addition to assessing computational performance, we simulated three typhoons that occurred in 2019 to analyze the forecast accuracy of MPAS. MPAS results were also applied to force an ADCIRC (The Advanced CIRCulation) + SWAN (Simulating Waves Nearshore) model to predict coastal flooding over southern Korea. The time-integration of MPAS showed excellent scalability up to 4096 cores of NURION KNL (KNight Landing) nodes, but a serious I/O bottleneck issue was still found after trying two additional I/O strategies (i.e., adjusting the stripe count and using a burst buffer). On the other hand, the forecast accuracy of MPAS showed very encouraging results for wind and pressure during typhoons. ADCIRC+SWAN also generated a good estimate of significant wave height for typhoon Mitag. The proposed variable-resolution MPAS model, under an efficient computational environment, could be utilized to predict and understand the highly nonlinear chaotic atmosphere and coastal flooding in typhoons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical nurses have training needs related to the strategies for infection spread prevention. This study aimed to investigate the levels of importance of and performance in the various areas of care for communicable respiratory infections among clinical nurses and to determine the priority of educational needs. Hospitals in which a baseline survey could be conducted were considered, and nurses working in six hospitals that were designated as COVID-19 care centers in Korea were enrolled. The training needs for the care of patients with communicable respiratory infections were analyzed using Borich's needs equation, and the locus for focus model. Among participants with prior COVID-19 patient care experience, according to Borich's equation, the need score was the highest for "initial response to communicable respiratory infection", followed by "management of aerosol-generating procedures in patients with communicable respiratory infection" and "reporting of patients with communicable respiratory infection and death of patient". An item rated highly in both Borich's equation and the locus for focus model among the participants with prior experience was "initial response to communicable respiratory infection". Among participants without prior relevant experience, according to Borich's equation, the need score was highest for "management of aerosol-generating procedures in patients with a communicable respiratory infection", followed by "initial response to communicable respiratory infection" and "reporting of patients with communicable respiratory infection and death of patient". None of the items were rated high in both Borich's equation and the locus for focus model among participants without relevant prior experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The critically endangered Callipogon relictus is one of the largest longhorn beetle species and also the only remnant species of the genus Callipogon found in the Palearctic region. Knowledge of the phylogeographic history and current conservational status is essential to understand its unique distribution and to establish efficient conservation strategies. We studied the phylogeographical pattern and genetic diversity of C. relictus from almost its entire geographical range. The level of genetic diversity and divergence of C. relictus from the known distributions in four regions in Russia, China, North Korea, and South Korea using two mitochondrial markers (COI and COII) revealed that genetic diversity lies within the range of intraspecific levels. Relatively high genetic diversity with no distinct phylogeographic structures indicates that the wide range of current fragmented populations might be the remnant of genetically diverse populations in the past. The results of our phylogenetic and population genetic analyses suggest that C. relictus populations surveyed in the present study can be used as a "source" for a future restoration and conservation program. The findings of the genetic characteristics and phylogeographic history of C. relictus will help to establish effective conservation strategies for this endangered longhorn beetle species in Northeast Asia. The longhorn beetle, Callipogon (Eoxenus) relictus Semenov, is the only remnant species found in the Palearctic region, while all other Callipogon species are distributed mainly in Central America and partly in South America. This species has been placed in the first category (as 'critically endangered') of the Red Data Book in Russia and designated as one of the top-priority target species among all endangered invertebrate species for restoration in South Korea since 2006. Although its restricted distribution in Northeast Asia with a high conservational value has been highlighted, genetic features of C. relictus from different geographic regions remain unexplored. We first investigated the level of genetic diversity and phylogeographic patterns of C. relictus to evaluate the current conservational status and the feasibility of the implementation of a restoration program. The average genetic divergence of mitochondrial gene COI based on Kimura-2-parameter distance among the four regions in Russia, China, North Korea, and South Korea was 2.2%, which lies within the range of intraspecific levels. However, two separate clades with 3.8% divergence were identified, despite no geographical clustering of haplotypes. The linear pattern of the haplotype network with a high level of haplotype and nucleotide diversities suggests that the wide range of currently fragmented populations might be the remnant of genetically diverse populations in the past. This study will provide crucial information on the genetic characteristics and phylogeographic history of C. relictus, which will help to establish conservation strategies for this cherished insect species in Northeast Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the association of primary and third doses of vaccination with the risk of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19. This retrospective cohort study utilized a combined database of nationwide health care claims data, COVID-19 patient registry, and vaccination records from South Korea. Individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 in the Omicron variant-dominant period of January–March 2022 were tracked for 30–120 days post-infection. The exposure of interest was the receipt of primary and third doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. The occurrence of 26 specific conditions in eight domains was compared using Cox regression with inverse probability of treatment weighting. This study included 394 773 unvaccinated individuals and 7 604 081 individuals receiving ≥2 doses of vaccine. Compared with unvaccinated individuals, vaccination with at least two doses was associated with a reduced risk (adjusted hazard ratio; 95% CI) of several conditions, including ischaemic heart disease (0.73; 0.57–0.94), heart failure (0.55; 0.48–0.63), cardiac dysrhythmia (0.72; 0.61–0.85), cardiac arrest (0.41; 0.33–0.51), pulmonary embolism (0.66; 0.52–0.84), venous thromboembolism (0.54; 0.44–0.66), acute renal failure (0.56; 0.46–0.67), new dialysis (0.45; 0.34–0.59), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (0.74; 0.65–0.84), acute pancreatitis (0.64; 0.51–0.80), and diabetes (0.82; 0.71–0.95). The risks of heart failure, cardiac dysrhythmias, cardiac arrest, pulmonary embolism, and new dialysis were lower in those who were vaccinated with three doses compared with those who were vaccinated with two doses. Vaccination was associated with a decreased risk of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, suggesting its potential role in mitigating the indirect impacts of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Sapsaree is a breed of dog (Canis familiaris) native to Korea, which became perilously close to extinction in the mid-1980s. However, with systematic genetic conservation and restoration efforts, this breed was rescued from extinction and population sizes have been gradually increasing over the past few decades. The aim of this study was to ascertain novel information about the genetic diversity, population structure, and demographic history of the Sapsaree breed using genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism data. We characterized the genetic profile of the Sapsaree breed by comparison with seven foreign dog breeds with similar morphologies to estimate genetic differentiation within and among these breeds. Results: The results suggest that Sapsarees have higher genetic variance compared with the other breeds analyzed. The majority of the Sapsarees in this study share a discrete genetic pattern, although some individuals were slightly different, possibly as a consequence of the recent restoration process. Concordant results from analyses of linkage disequilibrium, effective population size, genetic diversity, and population structural analyses illustrate a relationship among the Sapsaree and the Tibetan breeds Tibetan terrier and Lhasa Apso, and a small genetic introgression from European breeds. The effective population size of the Sapsaree has contracted dramatically over the past generations, and is currently insufficient to maintain long-term viability of the breed's genetic diversity. Conclusions: This study provides novel insights regarding the genetic diversity and population structure of the native Korean dog breed Sapsaree. Our results suggest the importance of a strategic and systematic approach to ensure the genetic diversity and the authenticity of the Sapsaree breed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The ability to communicate effectively is an essential skill for a pharmacist. However, the curricula of most pharmacy schools in South Korea do not include communication skills training (CST). This study aims to evaluate the effects of CST in pharmacy education. Methods: This study was a comparison of pre- and post-intervention surveys completed by sixty fifth-year pharmacy students who participated in communication skills and patient counseling training during the spring 2017 semester. The students were asked to respond to 49 questions addressing 4 self-assessment categories: communication skills (24), attitudes (19), and confidence levels (2) at the beginning and end of the CST, and their perception of CST (4) after completing the course. The training session included lectures, small group work, role play, videos, and performance feedback by a tutor. Data were analyzed using the paired t-test with Bonferroni's correction for multiple comparisons. The open-ended questions were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results: The pharmacy students' self-assessment of their communication skills, attitudes toward the communication course, and confidence levels showed significant improvement after the CST. Most students (96.7%) indicated the necessity of a pharmacy communication curriculum. They responded that CST is helpful for effective communication with patients (33.3%) and other healthcare professionals (31.7%). Role-playing was reported as the most preferred learning method (58.3%). Conclusions: CST significantly impacted pharmacy students' skills, attitudes, and confidence levels related to communication skills and patient counseling. These findings indicate that communications training should be included in the regular curriculum of pharmacy schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• NPIs are affecting not only COVID-19, but also several other infectious diseases • We investigated whether RSV and IFV are epidemic in the winter of 2020-21 in Korea. • No RSV and IFV winter epidemics were observed in a surveillance–based analysis. • The positivity of IFV was almost zero, but there were some sporadic RSV cases. • No IFV epidemics were observed in surveillance data from 13 other countries. We investigated whether non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) reduce winter-prevalent respiratory viral infections represented by a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza virus (IFV) during the winter in Korea. The Korean Influenza and Respiratory Virus Monitoring System database was used. From January 2016 through January 2021, the weekly positivity of respiratory viruses and the weekly number of hospitalizations with acute respiratory infections were collected. The NPI period was defined as February 2020–January 2021. We analyzed whether hospitalization and sample positivity by respiratory viruses changed after NPIs. Bayesian structural time–series models and Poisson analyses were used. Data from other countries/regions reporting positive rates of RSV and IFV were also investigated. Compared with the pre-NPI period, the positive rates of RSV and IFV decreased significantly to 19% and 6%, and 23% and 6% of the predicted value. Also, hospitalization significantly decreased to 9% and 8%, and 10% and 5% of the predicted value. The positive rates of IFV in 14 countries during the NPI period were almost 0, whereas sporadic outbreaks of RSV occurred in some countries. No RSV and IFV winter epidemics were observed during the 2020–2021 season in Korea. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut microbiota differs among countries owing to the prevailing diet composition. For the characterization of the gut microbiota of Koreans at different ages in future studies, e.g., in an in vitro human digestion model, we tried to investigate whether the gut microbiota differs between the young and elderly in Korea. Two hundred fecal samples were collected: 100 from elderly people (over 65 years old) at geriatric nursing hospitals and 100 from young people (university students, 20-25 years old) in Gyeonggi province, Korea. The composition of the gut microbiota in these fecal samples was analyzed by next-generation sequencing methods. There were significant differences in the taxonomic composition of the microbiota (the top 10 most abundant taxa) between the young and elderly people in Korea, especially in terms of relative abundance levels of bacteria in phyla Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, and Fusobacteria (P < 001). The gut microbiota of young people contained higher relative abundance of Lactobacillus than did the microbiota of elderly people, while the microbiota of elderly people manifested higher relative abundance of Escherichia. Even though the sample size may not be large enough for this study to be representative of the entire population of Korea, the study still provides data that are suggestive of differences in the gut microbiota between young and elderly people in Korea. Furthermore, our findings may be applied to develop an improved age-based in vitro model of digestion of Koreans for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lonicera japonica Thunb and Anemarrhena asphodeloides BUNGE have been used for the treatment of a variety of inflammatory diseases, cold and infective diseases in many countries, including Korea and China. Aim of the study: : This study aimed to assess the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of n-butanol fraction (WIN-34B) prepared from dried flowers of Lonicera japonica and dried roots of Anemarrhena asphodeloides as potential novel treatment of osteoarthritis. Materials and methods: : Anti-nociceptive activities of WIN-34B (100, 200 and 400mg/kg, p.o.) were measured using acetic acid-induced writhing response, formalin-induced paw licking, hot plate, radiant heat tail-flick, carrageenan-induced paw pressure, and Hargreaves tests, respectively. Anti-inflammatory activities of WIN-34B (100, 200 and 400mg/kg, p.o.) were assessed using acetic acid-induced vascular permeability, carrageenan-induced paw edema, and croton oil-induced ear edema. Anti-osteoarthritis effect of WIN-34B was analyzed using monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis animal model. Results: : WIN-34B exhibited better anti-inflammatory activity than that of celecoxib in carrageenan at the dose of 200mg/kg and croton oil-induced paw edema and ear edema at the doses of 200 and 400mg/kg. WIN-34B exhibited significant anti-inflammatory effects on vascular permeability. WIN-34B also exhibited significant anti-nociceptive activities in the late phase of formalin-induced paw licking and writhing response model in mice. In radiant heat tail-flick and carrageenan-induced paw pressure tests, WIN-34B at the dose of 400mg/kg and at the doses of 200 and 400mg/kg presented similar activities to indomethacin and celecoxib. Compared to indomethacin WIN-34B at 400mg/kg showed similar or better anti-nociceptive activities after 1 and 2h of theraphy in the hot plate test and better anti-nociceptive activity than that of celecoxib in Hargreves test. In the MIA-induced osteoarthritis animal models, WIN-34B at 400mg/kg exhibited similar or better anti-nociceptive property than that of celecoxib throughout the pain measurement periods. Conclusion: : When compared to celecoxib, WIN-34B exhibited similar or better anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in osteoarthritic animal models, which may become a potential novel treatment for osteoarthritis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]