Search

Abstract The oxide and halide perovskite materials with a ABX3 structure exhibit a number of excellent properties, including a high dielectric constant, electrochemical properties, a wide band gap, and a large absorption coefficient. These properties have led to a range of applications, including renewable energy and optoelectronics, where high-performance catalysts are needed. However, it is difficult for a single structure of perovskite alone to simultaneously fulfill the diverse needs of multiple applications, such as high performance and good stability at the same time. Consequently, perovskite nanocomposites have been developed to address the current limitations and enhance their functionality by combining perovskite with two or more materials to create complementary materials. This review paper categorizes perovskite nanocomposites according to their structural composition and outlines their synthesis methodologies, as well as their applications in various fields. These include fuel cells, electrochemical water splitting, CO2 mitigation, supercapacitors, and optoelectronic devices. Additionally, the review presents a summary of their research status, practical challenges, and future prospects in the fields of renewable energy and electronics. Graphical abstract

Background: To effectively understand and evaluate plant diversity in a specific area and make meaningful comparisons between regions, standardized methods that measure diversity irrespective of survey plot size are crucial. This study proposes a model equation for comparing plant species diversity using the modified Whittaker plots. Plant species diversity was measured in two Gotjawal areas on Jeju Island, where the coexistence of northern and southern limit species significantly impacts diversity. By analyzing the relationship between plant species diversity and environmental factors, the study clarified the characteristics of plant and habitat diversity in the Gotjawal ecosystem. Results: The species richness of vascular plants, herbaceous plants, and woody plants increased with area and was higher in Jeoji Gotjawal than in Seonheul Gotjawal. Similarly, the species turnover rate (slope value) was higher in Jeoji Gotjawal (4.37) than in Seonheul Gotjawal (3.85). This indicates that the species richness in Jeoji Gotjawal increases more with the expansion of the survey area (1-1,000 m2), reflecting a faster species turnover rate. Additionally, in Gotjawal areas, species richness increased with greater leaf litter depth, elevation, slope, and rock ratio. These results indicate that differences in plant species diversity were attributed to soil environmental factors. Conclusions: The plant species diversity of Gotjawal, surveyed using standardized methods, was lower than that of forested areas in the central region of South Korea where the same method was applied. Most previous studies on species diversity likely compared diversity without considering a consistent survey area. Therefore, when comparing plant species diversity domestically and globally, it emphasizes the need for the use of standardized survey methods.

In this study, we analyzed the environmental factors influencing the restoration process of the degraded ecosystem in the Inner Mongolian steppe, the largest steppe ecosystem in Asia, which is experiencing rapid desertification, and evaluated the effects of restoration on the damaged ecosystem in China. For this purpose, we selected degraded steppe areas left to desertification in the Hulunbuir region, four restored sites where vegetation was artificially introduced for restoration, and reference ecosystems, including a non-desertified area with the dominant Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica community and a meadow steppe area. We conducted analyses and monitoring of plant community characteristics and soil environmental factors to assess the progress of restoration. The results showed that the introduction of indigenous woody plants in the degraded areas led to a proportional increase in vegetation cover, plant biodiversity, and species abundance over time. The primary external forces driving the succession of vegetation in the restored sites were soil factors including organic matter content, temperature and total nitrogen levels, which were associated with an increase in vegetation cover. These results can be interpreted as an increase in vegetation cover leading to an increase in litter production. This in turn reduces soil temperature and evaporation, subsequently enhancing the activity of soil microorganisms. Over time, the species composition, structural diversity of communities, and ecosystem functions in the restored sites gradually became more similar to those of the reference ecosystems. This indicates that vegetation restoration in this area has been very successful. In particular, the positive change in local residents’ awareness regarding the necessity of restoration has been considered a crucial contribution to the success of restoration in the degraded areas. It has led to a decrease in perceived anthropogenic threats to the restored sites. These results indicate that the introduction of native woody plants is crucial and can increase vegetation cover and species composition complexity and local residents’ positive perception of restoration for the successful restoration of desertified drylands.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Catalpa bignonioides fruit extract on the promotion of muscle growth and muscular capacity in vitro and in vivo. Methods: Cell viability was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Cell proliferation was assessed using a 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine (BrdU) assay kit. Western blot analysis was performed to determine the protein expressions of related factors. The effects of Catalpa bignonioides extract were investigated in mice using the treadmill exhaustion test and whole-limb grip strength assay. Chemical composition analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: Catalpa bignonioides extract increased the proliferation of C2C12 mouse myoblasts by activating the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. It also induced metabolic changes, increasing the number of mitochondria and glucose metabolism by phosphorylating adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase. In an in vivo study, the extract-treated mice showed improved motor abilities, such as muscular endurance and grip strength. Additionally, HPLC analysis showed that vanillic acid may be the main component of the Catalpa bignonioides extract that enhanced muscle strength. Conclusions: Catalpa bignonioides improves exercise performance through regulation of growth and metabolism in skeletal muscles, suggesting its potential as an effective natural agent for improving muscular strength.

Abstract Microplastics (MPs) is an escalating aquatic environmental crisis that poses significant threats to marine organisms, especially mussels. Here, we compare the cumulative toxic effects of the two most abundant morphotypes of MPs in the environment, microspheres, and microfibers, on the gill and digestive gland (DG) of Mytilus galloprovincialis in a dose-dependent (1, 10, and 100 mg/L) and time-dependent (1, 4, 7, 14, 21 days exposure) manner. DNA fragmentation assessment through TUNEL assay revealed consistency in the pattern of morphological disturbance degree and cell apoptosis proportions indicated by histopathological analysis. Upon the acute phase of exposure (day 1–4), gill and DG treated with low MPs concentration exhibited preserved morphology and low proportion of TUNEL+ cells. At higher concentrations, spherical and fibrous MP-induced structural impairments and DNA breakage occurred at distinct levels. 100 mg/L microfibers was lethal to all mussels on day 21, indicating the higher toxicity of the fibrous particles. During the chronic phase, both morphological abnormalities degree and DNA fragmentation level increased over time and with increasing concentration, but the differentials between the spherical and fibrous group was gradually reduced, particularly diminished in 10 and 100 mg/L in the last 2 weeks. Furthermore, analysis of transcriptional activities of key genes for apoptosis of 100 mg/L–day 14 groups revealed the upregulation of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic induction pathway and increment in gene transcripts involving genotoxic stress and energy metabolism according to MP morphotypes. Overall, microfibers exert higher genotoxic effects on mussel. In response, mussels trigger more intense apoptotic responses together with enhanced energy metabolism to tolerate the adverse effects in a way related to the accumulation of stimuli.

Background and Objectives: Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) can be cured with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. In Korea, sofosbuvir (SOF) and ledipasvir (LDV)/SOF were launched in 2016. Patients who achieve a sustained virologic response (SVR) following DAA treatment are predicted to have a favorable prognosis. Nevertheless, little is known regarding the prognosis of Korean CHC patients who receive SOF-based treatment and achieve SVR. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to look into the long-term outcomes for these patients. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, multicenter observational study. CHC patients were enrolled who, following SOF or LDV/SOF treatment, had achieved SVR. The last day for follow-up was December 2023. The primary endpoint was HCC occurrence, which was checked at least once per year. Results: A total of 516 patients were included in this analysis, with a median follow-up duration of 39.0 months. Among them, 231 were male patients (44.8%), with a median age of 62.0 years. Genotypes were 1 (90, 17.4%), 2 (423, 82.0%), and 3 (3, 0.6%). The combination of SOF plus ribavirin was the most common treatment (394, 76.4%). In total, 160 patients were cirrhotic (31.0%), and the mean Child–Pugh score was 5.1. Within a maximum of 7 years, 21 patients (4.1%) developed HCC. Patients with HCC were older (69 vs. 61 years, p = 0.013) and had a higher cirrhosis incidence (81.0 vs. 28.9%, p < 0.001), higher AFP (6.0 vs. 3.3, p = 0.003) and higher APRI (0.8 vs. 0.5, p = 0.005). Age over 65 (p = 0.016) and cirrhosis (p = 0.005) were found to be significant risk factors for HCC by Cox regression analysis. Conclusions: Patients who achieved SVR with SOF-based treatment had a relatively favorable prognosis. However, the risk of HCC was not eliminated, especially in older and cirrhotic patients. Therefore, routine follow-up, surveillance, and early treatment are required.

Hyperproduction of immune cell-derived inflammatory molecules and recruitment of immune cells promote the development of allergic asthma (AA). Aromadendrin (ARO) has various biological properties including anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we evaluated the ameliorative effects of ARO on the development of AA in vitro and in vivo. Phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA, 100 nM) was used to induce inflammation in A549 airway epithelial cells. The cohesion of A549 and eosinophil EOL-1 cells was studied. Ovalbumin (30 or 60 μg)/Alum (3 mg) mixture was adapted for AA induction in mice. ARO (5 or 10 mg/kg, p. o.) was administered to mice to investigate its ameliorative effect on AA development. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blotting, and hematoxylin and eosin/periodic acid Schiff staining were performed to study the ameliorative effect of ARO on bronchial inflammation. In PMA-stimulated A549 cells, the upregulation of cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β/IL-6/tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α]/monocyte chemoattractant protein [MCP]-1]) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation was effectively reduced by ARO pretreatment. ARO suppressed the adhesion of A549 cells and eosinophils. In ovalbumin-induced AA mice, the levels of cells, such as eosinophils, Th2 cytokines, MCP-1 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, IgE in serum, and inducible nitric oxide synthase/cyclooxygenase-2 expression in the lung tissue were upregulated, which were all suppressed by ARO. In addition, the increase in cell inflow and mucus formation in the lungs of AA mice was reversed by ARO as per histological analysis. ARO also modulated NF-κB activation in the lungs of AA mice. Overall, the anti-inflammatory properties of ARO in vitro/in vivo studies of AA were notable. Thus, ARO has a modulatory effect on bronchial inflammation and may be a potential adjuvant for AA treatment.

AbstractPharmaceutical application of therapeutic proteins has been continuously expanded for the treatment of various diseases. Efficient and reliable bioanalytical methods are essential to expedite the identification and successful clinical development of therapeutic proteins. In particular, selective quantitative assays in a high-throughput format are critical for the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic evaluation of protein drugs and to meet the regulatory requirements for new drug approval. However, the inherent complexity of proteins and many interfering substances presented in biological matrices have a great impact on the specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, and robustness of analytical assays, thereby hindering the quantification of proteins. To overcome these issues, various protein assays and sample preparation methods are currently available in a medium- or high-throughput format. While there is no standard or universal approach suitable for all circumstances, a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) assay often becomes a method of choice for the identification and quantitative analysis of therapeutic proteins in complex biological samples, owing to its high sensitivity, specificity, and throughput. Accordingly, its application as an essential analytical tool is continuously expanded in pharmaceutical R&D processes. Proper sample preparation is also important since clean samples can minimize the interference from co-existing substances and improve the specificity and sensitivity of LC-MS/MS assays. A combination of different methods can be utilized to improve bioanalytical performance and ensure more accurate quantification. This review provides an overview of various protein assays and sample preparation methods, with particular emphasis on quantitative protein analysis by LC-MS/MS.

Conventional chemotherapy lacking target selectivity often leads to severe side effects, limiting the effectiveness of chemotherapy. Therefore, drug delivery systems ensuring both selective drug release and efficient intracellular uptake at the target sites are highly demanded in chemotherapy to improve the quality of life of patients with low toxicity. One of the effective approaches for tumor-selective drug delivery is the adoption of functional ligands that can interact with specific receptors overexpressed in malignant cancer cells. Various functional ligands including folic acid, hyaluronic acid, transferrin, peptides, and antibodies, have been extensively explored to develop tumor-selective drug delivery systems. Furthermore, cell-penetrating peptides or ligands for tight junction opening are also actively pursued to improve the intracellular trafficking of anticancer drugs. Sometimes, multiple ligands with different roles are used in combination to enhance the cellular uptake as well as target selectivity of anticancer drugs. In this review, the current status of various functional ligands applicable to improve the effectiveness of cancer chemotherapy is overviewed with a focus on their roles, characteristics, and preclinical/clinical applications.

AbstractThis study was conducted to investigate the effect of changes in soil moisture content under climate change conditions on the growth response of Quercus dentata, a representative species of the genus Quercus on the Korean peninsula. The results showed that Q. dentata germination increased by 9.4 days under climate change conditions (RCP 4.5 scenario), whereas the below-ground biomass and plant biomass increased by 1.3 and 1.2 times, respectively. However, the soil moisture treatment condition solely affected the leaf area, below-ground biomass, and plant biomass but not the germination percentage, germination speed, above-ground length, and above-ground biomass. The variance across the measured growth variables was considerably higher in the control group than in the climate change treatment group, whereas the variance was lower for lower soil moisture content. The findings suggested that under climate change conditions, Q. dentata germinated rapidly and exhibited broader leaf area and increased development below ground, which may be advantageous for the early establishment of seedlings. However, the plants may face difficulties in conditions with low soil moisture content. In conclusion, with continuous climate changes, Q. dentata seedlings are predicted to efficiently adapt to the altered soil moisture content to exhibit even more reliable growth than with the current condition. However, the growth of Q. dentata seedlings would be more difficult with severely low soil moisture content than with abundant soil moisture content, which is predicted to be detrimental to population maintenance in the long term.

Abstract Fair division is a significant, long-standing problem and is closely related to social and economic justice. The conventional division methods such as cut-and-choose are hardly applicable to real-world problems because of their complexity and unrealistic assumptions about human behaviors. Here we propose a fair division method from a completely different perspective, using the Boltzmann division. The mathematical model of the Boltzmann division was developed for both homogeneous and heterogeneous cake-cutting problems, and the realistic human factors (contributions, needs, and preferences) of the multiple participating players could be successfully integrated. The Boltzmann division was then optimized by maximizing the players’ total utility. We show that the Boltzmann fair division is a division method favorable to the socially disadvantaged or underprivileged, and it is drastically simple yet highly versatile and can be easily fine-tuned to directly apply to a variety of social, economic, and political division problems.

Changes in symptoms and dysfunction related to meniscus tears following the use of Korean medicine for ≥ 4 days were studied. The medical charts of 53 cases of diagnosed meniscus tears (magnetic resonance imaging) with an admission Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score ≥ 4, between 2017 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Treatments included acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, herbal treatment, Chuna therapy, and physiotherapy. The NRS, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions were performed at admission and discharge. There were 42 females and 11 males in this study. Patients were more likely to be in their 60s (38.18%), have an unknown etiology (81.13%), and have complex tears (50.94%). After receiving a combination of alternative Korean medicine during hospitalization, the mean NRS score improved from 6.82 ± 1.19 to 3.66 ± 1.83 (p < 0.001), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score improved from 46.47 ± 20.99 to 37.98 ± 19.23 (p < 0.001), and the mean European Quality of Life Five Dimensions score improved from 0.61 ± 0.18 to 0.68 ± 0.14 (p < 0.001) after treatment. These results suggest that Korean medicine treatment of meniscus tears alleviated pain and improved physical function.

A 53-year-old male who had received surgery on his right ankle joint 10 years previously was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome the following year. Despite various treatments (sympathetic nerve-block medication, pain relievers, corticosteroids, nerve blocks, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) over the years there was no improvement in his symptoms. Recently the patient was admitted to a Korean medicine hospital where he received treatment (acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, and herbal treatment) and his symptoms gradually showed improvement. The patient was concurrently on psychiatric medicine, antihistamine medication, and opioids for pain (when necessary). A decrease in numeric rating scale, Oswestry disability index scores, and an increase in the Korean version of the 5-level EuroQol-5 dimension score showed symptom improvement within 36 days. This study suggests complex Korean medicine treatment for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome may result in a reduction in pain and improved quality of life.

Objectives: Polystyrene is a plastic that leads to environmental pollution. In particular, expanded polystyrene is very light and takes up much space, causing additional environmental problems. The aim of this study was to isolate new symbiotic bacteria which degraded polystyrene from mealworms. Methods: The population of polystyrene degrading bacteria was increased by enrichment culture of intestinal bacteria from mealworms with polystyrene as a sole carbon source. The degradation activity of isolated bacteria was evaluated by morphological change of micro-polystyrene particles and the surface change of polystyrene films. Results: Eight isolated species (Acinetobacter septicus, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Klebsiella grimontii, Pseudomonas multiresinivorans, Pseudomonas nitroreducens, Pseudomonas plecoglossicida, Serratia marcescens, and Yokenella regensburgei) were identified that degrade polystyrene. Conclusion: Bacterial identification shows that a broad spectrum of bacteria decomposing polystyrene coexists in the intestinal tract of mealworms.

Polyscias fruticosa leaf (PFL) has been used in food and traditional medicine for the treatment of rheumatism, ischemia, and neuralgia. However, the lipophilic components of PFL and their biological properties remain unknown. This study, integrating network pharmacology analysis with in silico and in vitro approaches, aimed to elucidate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities of lipophilic extracts from PFL. A total of 71 lipophilic compounds were identified in PFL using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses showed that key active compounds, mainly phytosterols and sesquiterpenes, were responsible for regulating core target genes, such as PTGS2, TLR4, NFE2L2, PRKCD, KEAP1, NFKB1, NR1l2, PTGS1, AR, and CYP3A4, which were mostly enriched in oxidative stress and inflammation-related pathways. Furthermore, lipophilic extracts from PFL offered powerful antioxidant capacities, as evident in our cell-free antioxidant assays. These extracts also provided a protection against oxidative stress by inducing the expression of catalase and heme oxygenase-1 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 cells. Additionally, lipophilic fractions from PFL showed anti-inflammatory potential in downregulating the level of pro-inflammatory factors in LPS-treated macrophages. Overall, these findings provide valuable insights into the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of lipophilic extracts from PFL, which can be used as a fundamental basis for developing nutraceuticals and functional foods.

Aim and Objectives: Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy can cure chronic hepatitis C (CHC), and daclatasvir (DCV)/asunaprevir (ASV) was the first interferon-free DAA therapy introduced in Korea. Patients who achieve sustained virologic response (SVR) after DAA treatment are expected to have good prognoses. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the prognosis of these patients. Materials and Methods: This multicenter prospective observational study included patients with CHC who achieved SVR after DCV/ASV treatment. The primary endpoint was hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence, which was reviewed annually. Results: We included 302 patients (median follow-up duration: 38 [16.5–60.0] months; median age: 58 [49–67] years) in the study. Cirrhosis was observed in 103 patients (34.1%), and the median Child–Pugh score was 5.0. HCC occurred in 16 patients (5.3%) within six years post-SVR; these patients were older and had higher cirrhosis prevalence, alpha-fetoprotein levels, and fibrosis-4 index scores than did those without HCC development. Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that age > 71 years (p = 0.005) and cirrhosis (p = 0.035) were significant risk factors for HCC occurrence. Conclusions: Although the prognoses of patients who achieved SVR with DCV/ASV therapy were generally good, the risk for HCC was present, especially in older patients and in those with cirrhosis. Hence, early treatment at younger ages and regular follow-up surveillance after achieving SVR are warranted.

To identify effective light spectra for increasing the productivity of Panax ginseng, we conducted experiments in a controlled environment using a hydroponic cultivation system in a plant factory. We investigated the effect of single LEDs (red, blue, and yellow) and mixed LEDs (red + blue and red + blue + white). The relationships between four light spectra (red, blue, yellow, and white) and physiological responses (net photosynthetic rate, stomata conductance, transpiration rate, and intercellular CO2 partial pressure), as well as growth responses (shoot and root biomass), were analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis. Among the four physiological response variables, shoot biomass was not increased by any pathway, and root biomass was increased only by the intercellular CO2 partial pressure. Red and yellow light increased shoot biomass, whereas white light promoted an increase in the net photosynthetic rate and enhanced root biomass. In contrast, blue light was less effective than the other light spectra in increasing both shoot and root biomass. Therefore, red and yellow light are the most effective light spectra for increasing shoot biomass and white light is effective for increasing root biomass in a plant factory that uses artificial LED lighting. Furthermore, the intercellular CO2 partial pressure is an important physiological variable for increasing the root biomass of P. ginseng.

For the study on the relationships between the seed dispersal of exotic plants and bird population, flora, avifauna, vegetation patches, and the dynamics of seed banks were investigated in and around the exposed floodplains of the large rivers, and the causes of exotic vegetation development were determined with respect to plant life form, bird population characteristics, and landscape using multivariate analysis. The number of dominant exotic plant species observed in exposed areas was higher than that observed in an abandoned field and paddy field undergoing secondary succession. Additionally, the area occupied by exotic vegetation in exposed areas increased with the increase in number of vine plants and small terrestrial birds, whereas the relationship between vine and runner plants was inversely proportional. Therefore, to control exotic plants in exposed floodplains surrounding large rivers, it is necessary to remove vines and shrubs along the waterfront where small resident birds carrying plant seeds live and to maintain and manage runner plant populations. Furthermore, implementing an ecological landscape management strategy, such as afforestation through the planting of trees, may also be effective.

Objectives The main purpose of this study was to identify the effects of physical therapy modalities and exercise therapy on myofascial pain syndrome by assessing the degree of effect size (ES) and related variables. Methods Related studies published between 1st January 2008 and 31st December 2019were retrieved from national [KCI, RISS, National Assembly Library and DBpia (n = 405)] and international [PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar and Cochrane library (n = 1,600)] databases. According to the selection criteria, 25 studies were selected for review. Results The degree of ES in the physical therapy and exercise therapy combined group (1.83) showed the largest mean ES. The size of the effect according to the number of people to be treated was 41 or more (1.64), and showed the largest mean ES. The size of the effect according to treatment period was 16 to 30 days (1.41). The size of the effect for 6 to 10 treatments (1.51) showed the largest mean ES. Trim and fill results showed that the calibration ES was 0.67. Conclusion Physical therapy modalities and exercise therapy had a great effect on myofascial pain syndrome in the neck and shoulders, and the effect differed according to the methods of intervention, and the methods of evaluation.

Abstract Background Sexual assault is one of potential factors that may greatly affect an individual’s sport participation. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of experiencing physically or non-physically forced sexual activity on trajectories of sport participation from adolescence to young adulthood. Methods This study used the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) data. Group-based trajectory modeling was utilized to examine the effect of experiencing sexual assault on trajectories of sport participation from adolescence to young adulthood. Results A three-group trajectory model (high-stable group, high-decreasing group, and low-stable group) best fit sport participation among male participants and a two-group trajectory model (high-decreasing group and low-stable group) best fit sport participation among female participants. Both physically and non-physically forced sexual activity did not have significant effect on trajectories of sport participation among male participants. On the other hand, non-physically forced sexual assault significantly affected sport participation trajectory among female participants. Conclusions Special care is required in developing sport promotion program for women victims of non-physically forced sexual activity. The results of this study also suggest that group-based trajectory modeling is a useful technique to examine distinct trajectories of sport participation from adolescence through young adulthood.

Red spots symptoms were observed on the leaves of Rumex japonicus Houtt. in Goesan, Korea, in May 2019. Diseased leaf showing red spot and white-colored sori were found behind of diseased leaves. Aeciospores were confirmed and observed using a stereomicroscope, light microscope, and scanning electron microscope. They were globose or ovoid and measured 19.0–24.4×19.0–24.5 μm, with verrucae ornamentation. For the phylogenetic analysis, partial of large subunit rDNA region and cytochrome c oxidase subunit III were sequenced. As a result, the isolated fungus species showed high similarities with Puccinia prizeliana. Based on the previous report, morphological characters, phylogenetic analysis, it was confirmed as Puccinia phragmitis which have not been reported in Korea, and we firstly report this fungal agent on R. japonicus as P. phragmitis in Korea.

In this study, we examined the feasibility of Myzus persicae proliferation through interrelationships with host plants in a smart farm facility during winter. We investigated aphid proliferation under an LED artificial light source and attempted to interpret aphid proliferation in relation to the net photosynthetic rate of the host plant, Eutrema japonicum. We observed that aphids continuously proliferated in the smart farm facility in winter without dormancy. The average number of aphids was greater under the 1:1 red:blue light irradiation time ratio, where the photosynthetic rate of the host plant was lower than under the 5:1 and 10:1 red:blue light irradiation time ratios. These results show that it is important to maintain a low net photosynthetic rate of the host plant, E. japonicum, in order to effectively proliferate aphids under artificial light such as in the case of smart farm facilities.

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the main complications of liver cirrhosis (LC) and is classified into minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and overt hepatic encephalopathy (overt HE). S100B is expressed mainly in astrocytes and other glial cells, and S100B has been reported to be associated with various neurological disorders. The present study aimed to investigate the diagnostic ability of serum S100B to discriminate the grade of HE and the parameters correlated with serum S100B levels. Additionally, we investigated whether serum S100B levels can be used to predict 1-year mortality in cirrhotic patients. In total, 95 cirrhotic patients were consecutively enrolled and divided into the following three groups: (i) without any types of HEs; (ii) with MHE; and (iii) with overt HE. The diagnosis of MHE was made by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Score (PHES). Among the three groups, there were no significant differences in serum S100B levels regardless of HE severity. The clinical parameters correlated with serum S100B levels were age, serum bilirubin, and creatinine levels. The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score showed a significant positive correlation with serum S100B levels. The relationship between serum S100B levels and MELD score was maintained in 48 patients without any type of HE. Additionally, hyperammonemia, low cholesterol levels, and the combination of serum S100B levels ≥ 35 pg/mL with MELD score ≥ 13 were factors for predicting 1- year mortality. In conclusion, serum S100B level was not useful for differentiating the severity of HE. However, we found that serum S100B levels can be affected by age, serum bilirubin, and creatinine in cirrhotic patients and are associated with MELD scores. Additionally, serum S100B levels showed the possibility of predicting 1-year mortality in cirrhotic patients. These findings suggest that serum S100B levels may reflect liver dysfunction and prognosis in liver disease.

The platelet-to-white blood cell ratio (PWR) has been reported to predict the severity of patients with various diseases. However, no previous studies have assessed the use of the PWR as a prognostic marker for pyogenic liver abscesses (PLA). This observational retrospective study was performed between January 2008 and December 2017, including 833 patients with PLA from multiple centers. The enrolled patients, on average, had a PWR of 17.05, and 416 patients had a PWR lower than 17.05. A total of 260 patients (31.2%) with PLA showed complications of metastatic infection, pleural effusion and abscess rupture. A low PWR level was identified as a strong risk factor for metastatic infection and pleural effusion. The low PWR group also had a longer hospital stay. In the multivariate analysis, old age, anemia, albumin and CRP levels and unidentified pathogens were significant factors for low PWR levels. A low PWR, old age, male sex, abscess size, albumin, ALP and unidentified causative pathogens showed significant associations with a hospital stay longer than 28 days. As a result, PLA patients presenting with a low PWR were shown to have more complications and a poor prognosis. Considering its cost-effectiveness, PWR could be a novel biomarker used to predict a prognosis of PLA.

The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is known to play a role in cancer proliferation and metastasis. However, the role of PrPC expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unknown. This study investigated whether overexpression of PrPC affects recurrence after surgical resection and survival in HCC. A total of 110 HCC patients who underwent hepatic resection were included. They were followed up for a median of 42 months (range 1–213 months) after hepatectomy. The relationships between PrPC expression and the HCC histologic features, recurrence of HCC following surgical resection, and survival of the patients were examined. Seventy-one cases (64.5%) of HCC demonstrated higher expression of PrPC. The expression of PrPC was only correlated with diabetes mellitus. There was no association between PrPC expression and age, sex, hypertension, hepatitis B virus positivity, alcohol consumption, Child–Pugh class, major portal vein invasion, serum alpha-fetoprotein, and HCC size or number. The 1-year recurrence rates in patients with higher PrPC expression were higher than those with lower PrPC expression. The cumulative survival rates of patients with higher PrPC expression were significantly shorter than those of patients with lower PrPC expression. In conclusion, PrPC expression is closely associated with early recurrence and poor survival of HCC patients following surgical resection.

In the general context of rescue archaeology or in any emergency salvage operation, especially where human bones are involved that need to be cremated within a short time frame, anthropologists cannot conduct their work carefully at a university or institute lab. Thus, they have sought ever-more efficient and effective investigative protocols by which work can be conducted in cases of urgent time constraints. A recent anthropological survey conducted at a small town in South Korea (Goryeung) is thus significant. A joint team of anthropologists and dress historians performed collaborative research work in a “field lab” set up at the excavation site. Our novel protocol, by which academic data demonstrably can be successfully secured in the field instead of having to be sent to a university or institute lab, could be useful for the purposes of rescue archaeology.

Income inequality is known to have negative impacts on an economic system, thus has been debated for a hundred years past or more. Numerous ideas have been proposed to quantify income inequality, and the Gini coefficient is a prevalent index. However, the concept of perfect equality in the Gini coefficient is rather idealistic and cannot provide realistic guidance on whether government interventions are needed to adjust income inequality. In this paper, we first propose the concept of a more realistic and 'feasible' income equality that maximizes total social welfare. Then we show that an optimal income distribution representing the feasible equality could be modeled using the sigmoid welfare function and the Boltzmann income distribution. Finally, we carry out an empirical analysis of four countries and demonstrate how optimal income distributions could be evaluated. Our results show that the feasible income equality could be used as a practical guideline for government policies and interventions.

Cholangiopathies encompass various biliary diseases affecting the biliary epithelium, resulting in cholestasis, inflammation, fibrosis, and ultimately liver cirrhosis. Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are the most important progressive cholangiopathies in adults. Much research has broadened the scope of disease biology to genetic risk, epigenetic changes, dysregulated mucosal immunity, altered biliary epithelial cell function, and dysbiosis, all of which interact and arise in the context of ill-defined environmental triggers. An in-depth understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of these cholestatic diseases will help clinicians better prevent and treat diseases. In this review, we focus on the main underlying mechanisms of disease initiation and progression, and novel targeted therapeutics beyond currently approved treatments.

Ambient mass spectrometry-based approaches have found application in biology and medicine. Here the authors report a mass spectrometric imaging method (ambient nanoPALDI) for live hippocampal tissues, based on gold nanorodassisted femtosecond laser desorption and subsequent non-thermal plasma induced ionization.

Abstract Flag leaves (FL) and second leaves (SL) in rice show differential aging patterns during monocarpic senescence. Coordination of aging programs between FL and SL is important for grain yield and quality. However, the molecular bases for differential aging programs between FL and SL have not been systematically explored in rice. Here, we performed mRNA-sequencing of FL and SL at six time points during grain-filling and identified four molecular bases for differential aging programs between FL and SL: phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, photosynthesis, amino acid (AA) transport, and hormone response. Of them, photosynthesis (carbon assimilation) and AA transport (nitrogen remobilization) predominantly occurred in FL and SL, respectively, during grain-filling. Unlike other molecular bases, AA transport showed consistent differential expression patterns between FL and SL in independent samples. Moreover, long-distance AA transporters showed invariant differential expression patterns between FL and SL after panicle removal, which was consistent to invariant differential nitrogen contents between FL and SL after panicle removal. Therefore, our results suggest that the supplies of carbon and nitrogen to seeds is functionally segregated between FL and SL and that long-distance AA transport is an invariant core program for high nitrogen remobilization in SL.

There are various thin coating technologies, among which the UV coating technology is attracting attention in next-generation industries. In order to utilize the UV coating system stably, it is necessary to analyze and address the problems of surface oxygen inhibition and UV penetration, which lead to irregular curing characteristics. For this, three different UV-curing resins were selected. The effects of the structural difference of the material and change in the initiator content along the thickness direction during UV curing were evaluated by the sliding cutting technique (which involves cutting the coated surface at a superfine angle). Thus, it was confirmed that the effect of surface oxygen inhibition during UV curing is very large on the surface. Here, surface curing could be induced by increasing the functional group concentration and introducing a hybrid curing system. With increasing initiator content, the formation of a material with a high curing density on the surface and an irregular hardening structure in the deep part was confirmed. Therefore, the sliding cutting technique is a very effective approach to control the thickness profile of a UV coating system. Keywords: Depth profile, UV coating, Slide cutting, Surface and interfacial cutting analysis system, Complementary curing, Initiator effect

Background and Objectives: Tracheal or bronchial tears are potential complications of rigid bronchoscopy. This study aimed to investigate the acute complications and outcomes of using an insulation-tipped (IT) knife in combination with rigid bronchoscopic dilatation for treating benign tracheobronchial stenosis. Materials and Methods: We conducted a chart review of patients with benign tracheobronchial stenosis who were treated with rigid bronchoscopy and an IT knife at two referral centers. Treatment success was defined as a clinically stable state without worsening symptoms after 3 months of treatment. Results: Of the 23 patients with benign tracheobronchial stenosis, 15 had tracheal stenosis and 6 had main bronchial stenosis. Among them, three cases were of simple stenosis (13%), while the others were of complex stenosis (87%). The overall treatment success rate was 87.0%. Pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema occurred due to bronchial laceration in two cases of distal left main bronchial stenosis (8.7%), and no other significant acute complications developed. Silicone stents were inserted in 20 patients, and successful stent removal was possible in 11 patients (55.0%). Six of the seven stents inserted in patients with post-intubation tracheal stenosis were removed successfully (85.7%). However, most of the patients with post-tracheostomy tracheal stenosis required persistent stenting (80%). Pulmonary function was significantly increased after treatment, and the mean increase in the forced expiratory volume in 1 s was 391 ± 171 mL (160–700 mL). Conclusion: The use of an IT knife can be suggested as an effective and safe modality for rigid bronchoscopic treatment of benign tracheobronchial stenosis.

Cancer tissues have characteristic DNA methylation profiles compared with their corresponding normal tissues that can be utilized for cancer diagnosis with liquid biopsy. Using a genome-scale DNA methylation approach, we sought to identify a panel of DNA methylation markers specific for cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). By comparing DNA methylomes between CRC and normal mucosal tissues or blood leukocytes, we identified eight cancer-specific methylated loci (ADGRB1, ANKRD13, FAM123A, GLI3, PCDHG, PPP1R16B, SLIT3, and TMEM90B) and developed a five-marker panel (FAM123A, GLI3, PPP1R16B, SLIT3, and TMEM90B) that detected CRC in liquid biopsies with a high sensitivity and specificity with a droplet digital MethyLight assay. In a set of cfDNA samples from CRC patients (n = 117) and healthy volunteers (n = 60), a panel of five markers on the platform of the droplet digital MethyLight assay detected stages I–III and stage IV CRCs with sensitivities of 45.9% and 95.7%, respectively, and a specificity of 95.0%. The number of detected markers was correlated with the cancer stage, perineural invasion, lymphatic emboli, and venous invasion. Our five-marker panel with the droplet digital MethyLight assay showed a high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of CRC with cfDNA samples from patients with metastatic CRC.

The most critical step in developing and implementing effective physical activity interventions is to understand the determinants and correlates of physical activity, and it is strongly suggested that such effort should be based on theories. The purpose of this study is to test the direct, indirect, and total effect of social cognitive theory constructs on physical activity among Korean male high-school students. Three-hundred and forty-one 10th-grade male students were recruited from a private single-sex high school located in Seoul, South Korea. Structural equation modeling was used to test the expected relationships among the latent variables. The proposed model accounted for 42% of the variance in physical activity. Self-efficacy had the strongest total effect on physical activity. Self-efficacy for being physically active was positively associated with physical activity ( p < .01). Self-efficacy also had positive indirect effects on physical activity through perceived benefits ( p < .05) and goal setting ( p < .01). The results of this study indicated that the social cognitive theory is a useful framework to understand physical activity among Korean male adolescents. Physical activity interventions targeting Korean male high-school students should focus on the major sources of efficacy.

Dementia is a major concern among growing chronic diseases in the aging society and its association with polypharmacy has not been adequately assessed. The objective of this study was to determine the association between polypharmacy and dementia through multiple statistical approaches. We conducted a nested case-control study for newly diagnosed dementia cases using the South Korean National Health Insurance Service sample cohort database (2002-2013, n = 1,025,340). Interactions between polypharmacy (an average use of ≥5 prescription drugs daily) and comorbidities or potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) were tested. The odds ratios (ORs) for dementia were analyzed according to the presence of comorbidities, PIM uses, the average number of prescribed daily drugs, and significant interactions with polypharmacy using univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses. A higher prevalence of comorbidities, history of PIM use, higher PIM exposure, and higher proportion of polypharmacy were noted among cases than in controls. In the univariate analysis, the OR for dementia increased significantly with the increase in the number of prescribed drugs [1-

BACKGROUND:Bisphosphonate can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa and increase the risk of esophageal or gastric cancer. The relatively high prevalence of upper gastrointestinal cancers and the widespread use of bisphosphonate in Korea call for further investigation. We conducted a case-control study to evaluate the risk of esophageal or gastric cancer after exposure to oral bisphosphonates in Korean patients with osteoporosis. METHODS:We used the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort database of Korea from 2002 to 2013. Among osteoporotic patients (>40 years), cases were defined as incident diagnosis of esophageal or gastric cancer between 2006 and 2013. For each case, four controls were matched for age, sex, and income level by type of insurance. We categorized bisphosphonate use as non-user, recent user, past user, and past and recent user, depending on prescription in two periods (1 to 2 years and 2 to 4 years prior to the index date). We also assessed the duration of bisphosphonate use by measuring cumulative duration of exposure (CDE). To examine the association between oral bisphosphonates and esophageal or gastric cancer, we estimated adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using conditional logistic regression analysis, adjusting for concomitant diseases. RESULTS:A total of 1,708 cases and 6,832 controls were identified. The aORs (95% CIs) of recent, past, and continuous bisphosphonate use compared to non-users were 1.18 (0.93-1.51), 1.04 (0.83-1.29), and 1.25 (0.95-1.58)), respectively. In addition, no significant association was observed by CDE, even when different outcome definitions were applied. CONCLUSIONS:This study did not prove an increased risk of esophageal or gastric cancer risk associated with bisphosphonate use, with respect to both risk windows and duration of exposure, in an Asian population-based, real-world setting.

As a result of industrialization and environmental pollution, increasing importance is being given to eco-friendly materials and technology. In particular, eco-friendly biocomposites using polylactic acid (PLA) have attracted great interest. In this work, fiber-reinforced composites were investigated in order to enhance the mechanical properties and improve the economic efficiency of PLA. Specifically, composite materials using natural fibers, such as kenaf were actively studied. In the utilization of natural fibers, such as kenaf, the treatment method for increasing the bonding force between the fiber and the matrix is very important. In this study, the surface of kenaf was treated using an acetylation technique, and the PLA composite material was prepared using surface-treated kenaf. Changes in fiber properties were observed with acetylation treatment time. The mechanical properties, thermal stability, and water absorption resistance of the acetylated kenaf and PLA composites prepared for each condition were evaluated. Finally, was concluded that acetylation treatment is effective for improving the performance of PLA/kenaf composites. This behavior was found to relate to the surface cleaning of acetylated kanaf, in addition to the efficient modification of the hydrophilic characteristics of kenaf.

With conventional AOA positioning using a reverse-link signal, each sensor is equipped with an array antenna to measure the incident angle of the signal emitting by a mobile source. In order to perform the complicated array processing for angle measurements, both the sensor size and the power consumed by the sensor can increase in RLAOA (reverse-link AOA) positioning. In some applications such as mobile vehicle localization, the vehicle has fewer limitations in terms of size or power consumption. Rather, it is desirable to make the sensor as light as possible. This paper presents a new angle-based positioning scheme using a forward-link signal. Under the assumption that a ground vehicle moves on a horizontal surface, a measurement equation for the FLAOA (forward-link AOA) is initially derived. Using the measurement equation, a closed-form solution for FLAOA positioning is proposed. With the proposed method, it is also possible to estimate the azimuth of the vehicle as well as its position. The performance of the proposed method is compared to that of RLAOA positioning in a computer simulation. The simulation results show that the proposed method is potentially suitable for applications involving the localization and guidance of mobile vehicles.