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Abstract Background Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is recommended for patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) undergoing mastectomy, given the concerns regarding upstaging and technical difficulties of post-mastectomy SLNB. However, this may lead to potential overtreatment, considering favorable prognosis and de-escalation trends in DCIS. Data regarding upstaging and axillary lymph node metastasis among these patients remain limited. Methods We retrospectively reviewed patients with DCIS who underwent mastectomy with SLNB or axillary lymph node dissection at Gangnam Severance Hospital between January 2010 and December 2021. To explore the feasibility of omitting SLNB, we assessed the rates of DCIS upgraded to invasive carcinoma and axillary lymph node metastasis. Binary Cox regression analysis was performed to identify clinicopathologic factors associated with upstaging and axillary lymph node metastasis. Results Among 385 patients, 164 (42.6%) experienced an invasive carcinoma upgrade: microinvasion, pT1, and pT2 were confirmed in 53 (13.8%), 97 (25.2%), and 14 (3.6%) patients, respectively. Seventeen (4.4%) patients had axillary lymph node metastasis. Multivariable analysis identified age ≤ 50 years (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 12.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.18–137.51; p = 0.036) and suspicious axillary lymph nodes on radiologic evaluation (adjusted OR, 9.31; 95% CI, 2.06–41.99; p = 0.004) as independent factors associated with axillary lymph node metastasis. Among patients aged > 50 years and/or no suspicious axillary lymph nodes, only 1.7–2.3%) experienced axillary lymph node metastasis. Conclusions Although underestimation of the invasive component was relatively high among patients with DCIS undergoing mastectomy, axillary lymph node metastasis was rare. Our findings suggest that omitting SLNB may be feasible for patients over 50 and/or without suspicious axillary lymph nodes on radiologic evaluation.

Abstract Life course epidemiology seeks to understand the intricate relationships between risk factors and health outcomes across different stages of life to inform prevention and intervention strategies to optimize health throughout the lifespan. However, extant evidence has predominantly been based on separate analyses of data from individual birth cohorts or panel studies, which may not be sufficient to unravel the complex interplay of risk and health across different contexts. We highlight the importance of a multi-study perspective that enables researchers to: (a) Compare and contrast findings from different contexts and populations, which can help identify generalizable patterns and context-specific factors; (b) Examine the robustness of associations and the potential for effect modification by factors such as age, sex, and socioeconomic status; and (c) Improve statistical power and precision by pooling data from multiple studies, thereby allowing for the investigation of rare exposures and outcomes. This integrative framework combines the advantages of multi-study data with a life course perspective to guide research in understanding life course risk and resilience on adult health outcomes by: (a) Encouraging the use of harmonized measures across studies to facilitate comparisons and synthesis of findings; (b) Promoting the adoption of advanced analytical techniques that can accommodate the complexities of multi-study, longitudinal data; and (c) Fostering collaboration between researchers, data repositories, and funding agencies to support the integration of longitudinal data from diverse sources. An integrative approach can help inform the development of individualized risk scores and personalized interventions to promote health and well-being at various life stages.

In this work, a millimeter-wave wideband wide beamwidth modified angled dipole antenna is proposed for 5G millimeter-wave(mmW) IoT applications. The modified angled dipole antenna which has a dipole arm that is bent once more perpendicular to the ground plane compared to the existing angled dipole is proposed to improve not only the beamwidth but also the S11 bandwidth. The image current is formed in the direction perpendicular to the ground by the dipole arm bent to be orthogonal to the ground. Because only the E-field in the direction perpendicular to the ground can be formed by the boundary condition, the E-field radiated from the proposed antenna can be radiated along the ground plane, and thus the E-plane beamwidth is widened, and the H–plane beamwidth can be widened. The measured -10 dB S11 bandwidth is 5 GHz(=17.8%) ranging from 25.7 GHz to 30.7 GHz, and the measured HPBW is 160°±5 ° and $310^{\circ }\pm 10^{\circ }$ for the E-plane and H-plane, respectively. To verify whether the proposed antenna is practically applied to 5G IoT applications, the beamforming IC was connected to the proposed antenna array, and the E-plane beam-forming radiation pattern was measured. Although it was applied only to the -90 $^{\circ } \le \beta \le90 ^{\circ }$ range, the -3 dB E-plane beamwidth was 130°, ensuring wide coverage.

Limited evidence suggests that stimulating adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) indirectly promotes hair growth. We examined whether bee venom (BV) activated ASCs and whether BV-induced hair growth was facilitated by enhanced growth factor release by ASCs. The induction of the telogen-to-anagen phase was studied in mice. The underlying mechanism was investigated using organ cultures of mouse vibrissa hair follicles. When BV-treated ASCs were injected subcutaneously into mice, the telogen-to-anagen transition was accelerated and, by day 14, the hair weight increased. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) revealed that BV influenced the expression of several molecules, including growth factors, chemokines, channels, transcription factors, and enzymes. Western blot analysis was employed to verify the protein expression levels of extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and phospho-ERK. Both the Boyden chamber experiment and scratch assay confirmed the upregulation of cell migration by BV. Additionally, ASCs secreted higher levels of growth factors after exposure to BV. Following BV therapy, the gene expression levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-1 and 6, endothelial cell growth factor, and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-C were upregulated. The findings of this study suggest that bee venom can potentially be utilized as an ASC-preconditioning agent for hair regeneration.

Background Inpatient hospitalizations for cardiovascular disease (CVD) decreased nationally in the past decade. However, data are lacking on whether national declines represent trends within and across race and ethnicity populations from different US regions. Methods and Results Using State Inpatient Databases, Census Bureau and Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data for Florida, Kentucky, New Jersey, and North Carolina, we identified all CVD hospitalizations and population characteristics for adults aged 18 to 64 years between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2018. We calculated yearly CVD hospitalization rates for each state for the overall population, by sex, race, and ethnicity. We modeled yearly trends in age‐adjusted CVD hospitalization rate in each state using negative binomial regression. State base populations were similar by age (mean age: 40–42 years) and sex (50%–51% female) throughout the study period. There were 314 973 and 288 843 total CVD hospitalizations among the 4 states in 2009 and 2018, respectively. Crude hospitalization rates declined in all states (age 18–44 years NJ: −33.4%; KY: −17.0%; FL: −11.9%; NC: −11.2%; age 45–64 years NJ: −29.8%; KY: −20.3%; FL: −12.2%; NC: −11.6%) over the study period. In age‐adjusted models, overall hospitalization rates declined significantly in NJ −2.5%/y (95% CI, −2.9 to −2.1) and in KY −1.6%/y (−1.9 to −1.2) with no significant declining trend in FL and NC. Similar findings were present by sex. Among non‐Hispanic White populations, mean yearly decline in hospitalization rate was significant in all states except FL, with the greatest declines in NJ (−3.8%/y [−4.4 to −3.2], P values for state−year interaction

Background: Adiposity is a major health-risk factor, and D-allulose has beneficial effects on adiposity-related metabolic disturbances. However, the modes of action underlying anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic activity are partly understood. Objective: This study investigated the in vivo and in vitro effects of D-allulose involved in adipogenesis and activation of the AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed rats. Design: In this study, 8-week-old male SD (Sprague Dawley) rats were divided into five groups (n = 8/group), (1) Control (chow diet, 3.5%); (2) 60% HFD; (3) 60% HFD supplemented with allulose powder (AP) at 0.4 g/kg; (4) 60% HFD supplemented with allulose liquid (AL) at 0.4 g/kg; (5) 60% HFD supplemented with glucose (AL) at 0.4 g/kg. All the group received the product through oral gavage for 6 weeks. Control and HFD groups were gavaged with double-distilled water. Results: Rats receiving AP and AL showed reduced body weight gain and fat accumulation in HFD-fed rats. Also, supplementation of AL/AP regulated the cytokine secretion and recovered biochemical parameters to alleviate metabolic dysfunction and hepatic injury. Additionally, AL/AP administration improved adipocyte differentiation via regulation of the PPARγ and C/EBPα signaling pathway and adipogenesis-related genes owing to the combined effect of the AMPK/SIRT1 pathway. Furthermore, AL/AP treatment mediated PGC-1α expression triggering mitochondrial genesis via activating the AMPK phosphorylation and SIRT1 deacetylation activity in adipose tissue. Conclusion: The anti-adiposity activity of D-allulose is observed on a marked alleviation in adipogenesis and AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α deacetylation in the adipose tissue of HFD-fed rat.

This study aimed to clarify the association between hypertension and conventional cigarette and electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use, together or individually. A total of 275,762 participants were included, of which 120,766 were men and 154,996 were women. The data were drawn from the Korea Community Health Survey conducted in 2019. A multiple logistic regression model was used to examine the association between hypertension and types of smoking. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure higher than 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure higher than 90 mmHg. Based on the types of smoking, participants were grouped as dual smokers of conventional and e-cigarettes, e-cigarette only smokers, conventional cigarette only smokers, past-smokers, and non-smokers. Compared to non-smokers, dual smokers presented the highest odds ratio for hypertension in the male [odds ratio (OR): 1.24, confidence interval (CI): 1.10 to 1.39] and female groups (OR: 1.44 CI: 0.96 to 2.15). According to the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test, the two-sided p-value of < 0.001 indicated an overall statistically significant association between types of smoking and hypertension. Use of both cigarette types was statistically significant in the male group, but only the use of conventional cigarettes and past smoking were statistically significant in the female group. Among smokers of the two cigarette types, those who were dual smokers of e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes were the most likely to have the highest prevalence of hypertension.

This paper proposes a new model that predicts the cell voltage dynamics and capacity degradation induced by lithium plating and stripping. The proposed model uses a single equilibrium reaction to describe the deposition and dissolution of metallic lithium, predicting the partial reversibility of the plating/stripping reaction, the characteristic voltage plateau during relaxation, and the capacity loss due to the Loss of Cyclable Lithium (LCL). The model is integrated with a Doyle–Fuller–Newman (DFN) electrochemical model, calibrated and validated with experimental data. The model has the potential to improve the accuracy of predicting the effects of lithium plating in Li-ion cells and aid in the development of Extreme Fast Charging (XFC) technology for BEVs.

Abstract Background Obesity defined solely by the Body Mass Index (BMI) may not reflect the true heterogeneity of the obese population. This study aimed to classify the dietary behaviours of overweight and obese individuals and to explore the relationship between patterns of dietary behaviour and cardiometabolic risk factors. Methods A total of 259 patients who visited an outpatient weight management clinic at a tertiary hospital and underwent a dietary behaviour assessment between January 2014 and February 2019 were enrolled in the study. Dietary behaviours were assessed in three domains with nine categories, including choice of food (frequently eating out and consumption of instant/fast/takeaway food), eating behaviour (irregular meals; frequent snacking, including eating at night; emotional eating; and overeating/binge eating), and nutrient intake (high-fat/high-calorie foods, salty food, and poorly balanced diet). Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to classify the subjects according to these categories. Associations between latent class and metabolic syndrome were assessed by logistic regression. Results The subjects were classified into three LCA-driven classes, including a referent class of healthy but unbalanced eaters (n = 118), a class of emotional eaters (n = 53), and a class of irregular unhealthy eaters (n = 88). Compared with the referent class, emotional eaters had a significantly higher BMI (beta = 3.40, P

Surface coating approaches for silicon (Si) have demonstrated potential for use as anodes in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) to address the large volume change and low conductivity of Si. However, the practical application of these approaches remains a challenge because they do not effectively accommodate the pulverization of Si during cycling or require complex processes. Herein, Si-embedded titanium oxynitride (Si-TiON) was proposed and successfully fabricated using a spray-drying process. TiON can be uniformly coated on the Si surface via self-assembly, which can enhance the Si utilization and electrode stability. This is because TiON exhibits high mechanical strength and electrical conductivity, allowing it to act as a rigid and electrically conductive matrix. As a result, the Si-TiON electrodes delivered an initial reversible capacity of 1663 mA h g−1 with remarkably enhanced capacity retention and rate performance.

This study is to evaluate a novel Quantum Molecular Resonance energy device as a laparoscopic bipolar vessel sealer. The majority of conventional bipolar energy-based vessel sealing devices utilize energy at frequencies between 300 kHz and 500 kHz. The use of such frequencies has disadvantages including unintended damage to surrounding tissues and excessive surgical smoke production. Here, we developed a bipolar energy source using Quantum Molecular Resonance (QMR) energy of 4–64 MHz and combined this into a laparoscopic vessel sealer. We investigate the microscopic tissue effect and surgeon’s experiences of the laparoscopic bipolar vessel sealer using a novel QMR energy source through animal experiments. QMR energy sources showed higher sealing success rates (100% vs. 66.7%) and a higher burst pressure (963 mmHg vs. 802 mmHg) of the sealed vessels compared to LigaSure™. Histological analysis showed less vessel wall injury in the QMR energy source (55.0% vs. 73.9%). In the laparoscopic setting experiments, compared to LigaSure™, QMR energy sources showed statistically significantly less smoke formation (p = 0.014), less tissue carbonization (p = 0.013), and less stickiness (p = 0.044) during sealing tissues. A novel QMR energy source for a laparoscopic bipolar vessel sealer could produce a better sealing performance and less surrounding tissue damage.

Purpose Liver metabolism plays a pivotal role in the development of metabolic disorders. We aimed to investigate the clinical and laboratory risk factors associated with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in young adolescents from an urban population in Korea. Methods A population of 120 apparently healthy adolescents aged 12–13 years was included in the cross-sectional design study; 58 were overweight or obese and 62 were of normal weight. We estimated anthropometric and laboratory measurements, including waist-to-height ratio, blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, aspartate aminotransferases (AST), ALT, and lipid profiles. Results The mean ages of the overweight or obese and normal weight participants were 12.9±0.3 and 13.0±0.3 years, respectively. Height, weight, body mass index, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, AST, ALT, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, triglyceride, insulin, and the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) score were significantly higher and the high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index were significantly lower in the overweight/obese participants in comparison to the normal-weight participants (all P

This study aimed to apply annealing processes during the coating of photovoltaic (PV) module glasses to PV modules already installed through an easy and simple procedure. Three types of annealing treatments were applied to PV module glasses, i.e., furnace, rapid thermal annealing (RTA) and torch. Among these, torch annealing, which can be easily carried out at PV module installation sites, was applied to PV module glasses using different numbers of repetition. Light transmittance, contact angle, anti-pollution characteristics, adhesion and hardness of the functional coating films after using different annealing treatment times and methods were measured, and it was confirmed that these characteristics varied depending on the annealing treatment times and methods. Through this, it was possible to optimize the process conditions that provide excellent anti-pollution characteristics and could be easily utilized at on-site PV modules.

In this study, electrochemical properties of layered perovskites having non-stoichiometric compositions (Sm1−xBaCo2O5+d, x = 0, 0. 01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15) were analyzed for the direct application of cathode materials for Intermediate Temperature-operating Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (IT-SOFC). From the Sm1−xBaCo2O5+d oxide systems calcined at 1,100°C for 8 h, single phase (SmBaCo2O5+d, SBCO_1) was maintained only in the case of the x = 0 composition. In the compositions of x = 0.05–0.10, BaCoO2.6 was mixed with the pattern of SBCO. In addition, in the composition of x = 0.15, it was confirmed that BaCoO2.6 and CoO phases coexisted with SBCO. In the compositions of Sm1−xBaCo2O5+d, the overall Area Specific Resistance (ASR) values decreased as the removal amount of Sm increased from x = 0–0.10; then, the values increased for compositions from x = 0.15. For example, the ASRs of SBCO_1, Sm0.95BaCo2O5+d (SBCO_0.95), Sm0.90BaCo2O5+d (SBCO_0.90), and Sm0.85BaCo2O5+d (SBCO_0.85) measured at 600°C were 0.301, 0.147, 0.119, and 0.179 Ω cm2, respectively. In particular, SBCO_0.90 was found to have an excellent ASR property of about 0.035 Ω cm2 at 700°C. Typical properties of the metal–insulator transition (MIT) electrical conductivity were shown in all measured compositions. The temperature at which MIT occurred increased as the non-stoichiometric composition increased.

In SmBa1-xCaxCo2O5+d (x = 0.01, 0.03, 0.1, and 0.2, SBCCO) oxide systems calcined at 1100°C for 8 h, the XRD patterns of the SBCCO single phase were maintained in the cases of SmBa0.97Ca0.03Co2O5+d (SBCCO-0.97) and SmBa0.99Ca0.01Co2O5+d (SBCCO-0.99) compositions. In SmBa0.8Ca0.2Co2O5+d (SBCCO-0.8) and SmBa0.9Ca0.1Co2O5+d (SBCCO-0.9), CaCoSmO4 existed with the pattern SBCCO. SBCCO structures were identified as orthorhombic crystal structures because they showed splitting of the X-ray diffraction (XRD) peaks at 23.4°, 47.9°, and 59.1°.Typical metallic conduction behaviors were found in all measured compositions except SBCCO-0.8, which showed a metal-insulator transition (MIT) behavior. Compared to other SmBa1-xCaxCo2O5+d compositions, SBCCO-0.8 showed the highest electrical conductivity of 460 S/cm at 500°C. In particular, SBCCO-0.9 was found to have an excellent ASR characteristic of about 0.077 Ωcm2 at 700°C. The activation energy of SBCCO-0.9 was the lowest among SBCCO oxide systems with a value of 0.77 eV.

Background The “Tuberculosis Relief Belt Supporting Project (Tuberculosis Patient Management Project for Poverty Groups)” is a national program for socioeconomically vulnerable tuberculosis (TB) patients. We sought to evaluate the clinical and socioeconomic characteristics of poverty-stricken TB patients, and determined the need for relief. Methods We examined in-patients with TB, who were supported by this project at the National Medical Center from 2014 to 2015. We retrospectively investigated the patients' socioeconomic status, clinical characteristics, and project expenditures. Results Fifty-eight patients were enrolled. Among 55 patients with known income status, 24 (43.6%) had no income. Most patients (80%) lived alone. A total of 48 patients (82.8%) had more than one underlying disease. More than half of the enrolled patients (30 patients, 51.7%) had smear-positive TB. Cavitary disease was found in 38 patients (65.5%). Among the 38 patients with known resistance status, 19 (50%) had drug-resistant TB. In terms of disease severity, 96.6% of the cases had moderate-to-severe disease. A total of 14 patients (26.4%) died during treatment. Nursing expenses were supported for 12 patients (20.7%), with patient transportation costs reimbursed for 35 patients (60%). In terms of treatment expenses for 31 people (53.4%), 93.5% of them were supported by uninsured benefits. Conclusion Underlying disease, infectivity, drug resistance, severity, and death occurred frequently in socioeconomically vulnerable patients with TB. Many uninsured treatment costs were not supported by the current government TB programs, and the “Tuberculosis Relief Belt Supporting Project” compensated for these limitations.

In this study, the phase synthesis and electrochemical properties of A/A//A///B2O5+d (A/: Lanthanide, A//: Ba, and A//: Sr) layered perovskites in which Pr and Sm were substituted at the A/-site were investigated for cathode materials of Intermediate Temperature-Operating Solid Oxide Fuel cells (IT-SOFC). In the PrxSm1−xBa0.5Sr0.5Co2O5+d (x = 0.1–0.9) systems, tetragonal (x < 0.4) and orthorhombic (x ≥ 0.5) crystalline structures were confirmed according to the substitution amount of Pr, which has a relatively large ionic radius, and Sm, which has a small ionic radius. All of the layered perovskite oxide systems utilized in this study presented typical metallic conductivity behavior, with decreasing electrical conductivity as temperature increased. In addition, Pr0.5Sm0.5Ba0.5Sr0.5Co2O5+d (PSBSCO55), showing a tetragonal crystalline structure, had the lowest conductivity values. However, the Area-Specific Resistance (ASR) of PSBSCO55 was found to be 0.10 Ω cm2 at 700 °C, which is lower than those of the other compositions.

In this study, the characteristics of functional films were investigated according to the number of coatings and their heat treatment times. The functional coating films were deposited on glass substrates made of the same material as the cover glass of photovoltaic (PV) modules. Each film was coated once by brushing with a special silica-based solution, and each heat treatment was done using a hot-air fan for 2 min at 300 °C. The substrates were coated once, twice, and thrice, respectively, and were annealed once, twice, and thrice by drying and cooling alternately. The specimens were then analyzed for their anti-pollution properties, contact angles, light transmittance, and mechanical properties. The anti-pollution function was confirmed through a self-cleaning test, while the contact angle and light transmittance were examined using special equipment. Mechanical properties, including hardness and adhesion, were confirmed using the standard hardness testing method (ASTM D3363) such as those using an H-9H, F, HB, or B-6B pencil (Mitsubishi, Japan) and a standard adhesion testing method (ASTM D3359). It was confirmed that the film coated once yielded a very low contact angle of 8.9° and very good anti-pollution properties. Its adhesion and strength also showed high values of 5B and 9H, respectively.

Myeloid sarcoma is an extramedullary solid neoplasm composed of myeloid precursor cells. This tumor usually occurs simultaneously with or following the onset of acute leukemia. Rarely, it can be the first manifestation of acute myeloid leukemia. The tumor can occur anywhere in the body. However, primary involvement of the stomach without evidence of leukemia is exceedingly rare, and to the best of our knowledge, imaging features of isolated myeloid sarcoma of the stomach have not been reported in children. This case illustrates the imaging appearances of isolated myeloid sarcoma that initially manifested as gastric submucosal wall thickening and discusses the differential diagnosis, in a 15-year-old girl without evidence of hematologic malignancy.

MXene, a 2D material, is used as a filler to manufacture polymer electrolytes with high ionic conductivity because of its unique sheet shape, large specific surface area and high aspect ratio. Because MXene has numerous -OH groups on its surface, it can cause dehydration and condensation reactions with poly(4-styrenesulfonic acid) (PSSA) and consequently create pathways for the conduction of cations. The movement of Grotthuss-type hydrogen ions along the cation-conduction pathway is promoted and a high ionic conductivity can be obtained. In addition, when electrolytes composed of a conventional acid or metal salt alone is applied to an electrochromic device (ECD), it does not bring out fast response time, high coloration efficiency and transmittance contrast simultaneously. Therefore, dual-cation electrolytes are designed for high-performance ECDs. Bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)amine lithium salt (LiTFSI) was used as a source of lithium ions and PSSA crosslinked with MXene was used as a source of protons. Dual-Cation electrolytes crosslinked with MXene was applied to an indium tin oxide-free, all-solution-processable ECD. The effect of applying the electrolyte to the device was verified in terms of response time, coloration efficiency and transmittance contrast. The ECD with a size of 5 × 5 cm2 showed a high transmittance contrast of 66.7%, fast response time (8 s/15 s) and high coloration efficiency of 340.6 cm2/C.

Systemic complications related to acute pancreatitis include acute respiratory distress syndrome, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, hypocalcemia, hyperglycemia, and insulin dependent diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. In practice, the development of diabetic ketoacidosis induced by acute pancreatitis is rare and generally associated with hypertriglyceridemia. However, herein we report a case of a 34-year-old female without hypertriglyceridemia, who was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis complicated with diabetic ketoacidosis. The patient was admitted with complaints of febrile sensation, back pain, and abdominal pain around the epigastric area. Levels of serum amylase and lipase were elevated to 663 U/L and 3,232 U/L. Contrast-enhanced abdominal CT showed pancreatic swelling, peri-pancreatic fat infiltration and fluid collection. The patient was initially diagnosed with simple acute pancreatitis. Though the symptoms were rapidly relieved after initiation of treatment, severe hyperglycemia (575 mg/dL), severe metabolic acidosis (pH 6.9), and ketonuria developed at four days after hospitalization. However, serum triglyceride levels remained within the normal range (134 mg/dL). Finally, the patient was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis complicated with diabetic ketoacidosis unrelated to hypertriglyceridemia. She recovered through insulin and fluid therapy, and receives insulin therapy at the outpatient clinic. (Korean J Gastroenterol 2016;68:274-278)

PurposeLipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) is a 65-kDa acute phase protein, derived from the liver, which is present in high concentrations in plasma. Data regarding the association between circulating plasma LBP levels and obesity-related biomarkers in the pediatric population are scarce. We aimed to determine whether there was a difference in plasma LBP levels between overweight/obese and normal-weight adolescents and to assess the correlation of circulating LBP levels with anthropometric measures and obesity-related biomarkers, including insulin resistance, liver enzyme levels, and lipid profiles.MethodsThe study included 87 adolescents aged 12–13 years; 44 were overweight/obese and 43 were of normal-weight. We assessed anthropometric and laboratory measures, including body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, insulin resistance, liver enzyme levels, and lipid profiles. Plasma LBP levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.ResultsThe mean age of the participants was 12.9±0.3 years. Circulating plasma LBP levels were significantly increased in overweight/obese participants compared with those in normal-weight participants (7.8±1.9 µg/mL vs. 6.0±1.6 µg/mL, P

Conjugated polymers are desired as organic electrode materials because of their functional properties such as solution process, low cost, and transparency. Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), in particular, shows the highest applicability, but its heterogeneous structure presents limitations in terms of electrical conductivity. In this study, a facile method to fabricate multi-layered thin films with higher ordered structures was developed. Through the etching process with H2SO4 and dimethyl sulfoxide(DMSO), the insulated rich-PSS was removed from the upper layer to improve its electrical properties and rearrange the PEDOT molecular structures. The thickness of PEDOT:PSS thin films was experimentally optimized to maximize the enhancement of carrier mobility via a layer-by-layer (LBL) process. The combined method, consisted of etching and the LBL process, showed the improvement of the charge carrier mobility from 0.62 to 2.80 cm2 V−1 s−1. The morphology and crystallinity of the ordered PEDOT:PSS structure were investigated by X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), Raman, and X-ray diffraction (XRD). As a result, two-dimensional lamellar-stacked PEDOT:PSS thin films were fabricated through the repetitive etching and LBL process. The optimized PEDOT:PSS thin film showed an excellent electrical conductivity of 3026 S cm−1, which is 3.8 times higher than that of the pristine film (801 S cm−1).

The application of a carbon nanowall (CNW) via transfer is very demanding due to the unusual structure of vertically grown wall-shaped that easily collapses. In addition, direct growth on a device cannot obtain a precision-patterned shape because of the temperature limit of the photoresist (PR). Therefore, in this paper, we demonstrate a new CNW surface micromachining technology capable of direct growth. In order to reduce unexpected damage caused by chemical etching, a physical force was used to etch with the adhesive properties of CNWs that have low adhesion to silicon wafer. To prevent compositing with PR, the CNW was surface modified using oxygen plasma. Since there is a risk of surface-modified CNW (SMCNW) collapse in an ultrasonic treatment, which is a physical force, the CNW was coated with PR. After etching the SMCNW grown on PR uncoated area, PR was lifted off using an acetone solution. The effect on the SMCNW by the lift-off process was investigated. The surface, chemical, and structural properties of PR-removed SMCNW and pristine-SMCNW were compared and showed a minimal difference. Therefore, the CNW surface micromachining technique was considered successful.

Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the myocardium caused by various infectious or noninfectious triggers. Although viral infections are important causes of myocarditis, some drugs or toxins can also cause myocarditis. We report a case of life-threatening fulminant myocarditis which followed an extensive coffee diet program. Despite medical treatment, the patient was not able to maintain hemodynamic stability. She was supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and completely recovered 3 months later.

This research describes the preparation and sensor applications of multifunctional monodisperse, Fe3O4 nanoparticles-embedded poly(styrene)/poly(thiophene) (Fe3O4-PSt/PTh), core/shell nanoparticles. Monodisperse Fe3O4-PSt/PTh nanoparticles were prepared by free-radical combination (mini-emulsion/emulsion) polymerization for Fe3O4-PSt core and oxidative seeded emulsion polymerization for PTh shell in the presence of FeCl3/H2O2 as a redox catalyst, respectively. For applicability of Fe3O4-PSt/PTh as sensors, Fe3O4-PSt/PTh-immobilized poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogels were fabricated by photolithography. The hydrogel patterns showed a good sensing performance under different H2O2 concentrations. They also showed a quenching sensitivity of 1 µg/mL for the Pd2+ metal ion within 1 min. The hydrogel micropatterns not only provide a fast water uptake property but also suggest the feasibility of both H2O2 and Pd2+ detection.

The automobile industry is experiencing unprecedented change. Despite its century-old history based mostly in the art of mechanics, increased development of technology and heightened awareness of environmental issues has pushed traditional automobile manufacturers to completely re-examine their strategies. It has also newly invited nontraditional players such as electronic and IT tycoons namely, Samsung, Google, and Apple into the game. The advent of electric cars with cutting edge technology requires active participation and collaboration from diverse industries requiring cross-over joint ventures and M&As. In this light, the recent acquisition of Harman Incorporated for eight billion dollars by Samsung Electronics in 2016 is a significant event that signals great change. As the electronics tycoon expands its boundaries preparing to become an important player in the automobile industry, this study examines how Samsung increases and integrates its knowledge base and innovation capability through the M&A deal with Harman in attempts to enhance its competitiveness in the rapidly evolving automotive market.

We fabricated carbon nanotube (CNT) cold cathode emitters with enhanced and stable electron emission properties and long-time stability with electrical aging as a post-treatment. Our CNT field emitters showed improved electrical properties by electrical aging. We set the applied bias for effective electrical aging, with the bias voltage defined at the voltage where Joule heating appeared. At the initial stage of aging, the electron emission current started to increase and then was saturated within 3 h. We understood that 5 h aging time was enough at proper aging bias. If the aging bias is higher, excessive heating damages CNT emitters. With the electrical aging, we obtained improved electron emission current from 3 mA to 6 mA. The current of 6 mA was steadily driven for 9 h.

ObjectivesThis study presents the information system for Pusan National University Hospital (PNUH), evaluates its performance qualitatively, and conducts economic analysis.MethodsInformation system for PNUH was designed by component-based development and developed by internet technologies. Order Communication System, Electronic Medical Record, and Clinical Decision Support System were newly developed. The performance of the hospital information system was qualitatively evaluated based on the performance reference model in order to identify problem areas for the old system. The Information Economics approach was used to analyze the economic feasibility of hospital information system in order to account for the intangible benefits.ResultsAverage performance scores were 3.16 for input layer, 3.35 for process layer, and 3.57 for business layer. In addition, the cumulative benefit to cost ratio was 0.50 in 2011, 1.73 in 2012, 1.76 in 2013, 1.71 in 2014, and 1.71 in 2015. The B/C ratios steadily increase as value items are added.ConclusionsWhile overall performance scores were reasonably high, doctors were less satisfied with the system, perhaps due to the weak clinical function in the systems. The information economics analysis demonstrated the economic profitability of the information systems if all intangible benefits were included. The second qualitative evaluation survey and economic analysis were proposed to evaluate the changes in performance of the new system.

In this study, functional coating film was fabricated on glass for photovoltaic (PV) modules to improve the anti-pollution characteristics of PV modules. The functional coating film applied to a glass substrate through the spray coating method was annealed at 300 °C for 10 min in H2, N2, Ar, O2, and vacuum ambient. The contact angle of the coated surface was measured and it was confirmed that the anti-pollution characteristics were improved as the contact angle decreased. The light transmittance was measured and it exhibited the most excellent characteristics in vacuum. The hardness and adhesion were measured as the mechanical characteristics and they were all excellent regardless of the annealing ambient. Based on the analyzed characteristics, the process conditions of functional coating films were optimized to improve the anti-pollution and mechanical characteristics. If the coating process optimized in this study is applied to PV modules based on these results, improvement in the anti-pollution characteristics can be expected.

In this study, the coating order of two monomers in the shell polymerization process of core-shell nanoparticles was altered to facilitate easy coating and optimize the properties of the coated surface to simplify the additional coating formulation process. To obtain a glass transition temperature suitable for coating, a core was synthesized by the copolymerization of an acryl monomer. A perfluoro monomer and silane monomer were additionally added to synthesize nanoparticles exhibiting both water⁻oil repellency and anchoring properties. In order to realize various surface properties, the nanoparticles underwent surface modification and cellulose fiber was introduced. Through the various data described in this text, the surface properties improved with the order of the introduction of the two monomers.

Metabolic syndrome is associated with visceral obesity, insulin resistance and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Visceral fat tissue primarily consists of adipocytes that secrete cytokines leading to a state of systemic inflammation in obese conditions. One of the IGF-independent functions of IGFBP-3 is its role as an anti-inflammatory molecule. Our study in obese adolescents show a decrease in total IGFBP-3 levels and increase in proteolyzed IGFBP-3 in circulation when compared to their normal counterparts and establishes a positive correlation between IGFBP-3 proteolysis and adiposity parameters as well as insulin resistance. In human adipocytes, we show that IGFBP-3 inhibits TNF-α-induced NF-κB activity in an IGF-independent manner, thereby restoring the deregulated insulin signaling and negating TNF-α-induced inhibition of glucose uptake. IGFBP-3 further inhibits TNF-α, CRP and high glucose-induced NF-κB activity in human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) and subsequently suppresses monocyte adhesion to HAEC through the IGFBP-3 receptor. In conclusion, these findings suggest that reduced levels of IGFBP-3 in circulation and reduced expression of IGFBP-3 in macrophages in obesity may result in suppression of its anti-inflammatory functions and therefore IGFBP-3 may present itself as a therapeutic for obesity-induced insulin resistance and for events occurring in the early stages of atherosclerosis.

Hydrophobic and comparatively thermally-stable poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), i.e., poly(styrene sulfonate-co-vinyltrimethoxysilane) (PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS)) copolymer was successfully synthesized via the introduction of silane coupling agent into the PSS main chain to form P(SS-co-VTMS) copolymers. PSS and P(SS-co-VMTS) copolymers were successfully synthesized via radical solution polymerization, and PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was synthesized via Fe+-catalyzed oxidative polymerization. The characterization of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was performed through an analysis of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results, water contact angle and optical images. The electrical properties of conductive PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) thin films were evaluated by studying the influence of the VTMS content on the electrical and physical properties. The conductivity of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) decreased with an increase in the VTMS content, but was close to that of the PEDOT:PSS, 235.9 S·cm−1. The introduction of VTMS into the PSS copolymer improved the mechanical properties and thermal stability and increased the hydrophobicity. The thermal stability test at a temperature over 240 °C indicated that the sheet resistance of PEDOT:PSS increased by 3,012%. The sheet resistance of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS), on the other hand, only increased by 480%. The stability of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was six-times higher than that of the reference PEDOT:PSS.

Background: The various statin might contribute to a change in arterial stiffness independent of the cholesterol-lowering effects of statin therapy. The aim of this study was to compare the short-term effect between co-administration of simvastatin and ezetimibe (vytorin) and atorvastatin (lipitor) on pulse wave velocity (PWV). Methods: We enrolled 27 patients with hypercholesterolemia (Total cholesterol >200mg/dL). The patients were randomly divided into two groups according to statin (vytorin: 13 patients, lipitor : 14 patients). They were treated vytorin 10/20mg and Lipitor 20mg for 1 month, then vytorin 10/10mg and Lipitor 10mg for 5 months. We measured the carotid-femoral PWV (cfPWV), and lipid profile at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months after treatment with the statin. Results: The total cholesterol and LDL levels in both groups were significantly decreased 1 month later, and they were slightly increased 6 months later. In addition, the change of total cholesterol was not different in both groups. The central PWV(cfPWV) in lipitor group was significantly decreased compared with those in vytorin group after 6 months (−0.61±1.23, 0.24±1.24m/sec, respectively). Conclusion: Although co-administration of simvastatin and ezetimibe for 6 months might show similar lipid lowering effect compared with atorvastatin, only atorvastatin might show pleiotrophic effect for long-term treatment in hypercholesterolemia.

Background: Masked hypertension (MH) has been drawing attention recently because this condition is often seen in untreated and treated individuals and is associated with target organ damage and a poor cardiovascular prognosis. Arterial stiffness is associated with organ damage in patients with primary hypertension. The aim of this study was to evaluate pulse wave velocity (PWV) in MH and true hypertension (TH). Methods: We enrolled 146 patients (mean age 47.9±13.9 yrs, male 78 (53.4 %)), who was recently diagnosed as hypertension. MH was defined as office normotension (systolic blood pressure(SBP)

A 7-year-old castrated male Persian cat presented with a cutaneous mass and an increase in serum amyloid A concentration. Fine needle aspirates of the mass indicated lymphoma, which was also the top differential diagnosis on histopathologic examinations. Immunohistochemically, neoplastic cells tested negative for anti-CD3, PAX5, CD20, and c-Kit, but positive for MUM1, CD79α, and CD138, suggesting extramedullary plasmacytoma. There were tumor-infiltrating non-neoplastic CD3+ T and PAX5+ B cells. Practitioners should be aware of feline plasmacytoma characterized by lymphoma-like cytologic and histologic features. The present study is valuable in providing the first clinical evidence that proves the immunogenicity of feline plasmacytoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Left atrial volume (LAV) obtained using real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) is an independent predictor of postcapillary pulmonary hypertension (PH) in humans; however, no studies have investigated LAV obtained using RT3DE as a predictor of post-capillary PH in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the clinical applicability of LAV obtained using RT3DE compared to that obtained using two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) in dogs with MMVD, with or without PH. Methods: Medical records and echocardiographic images of 237 privately owned dogs with naturally occurring MMVD with or without PH were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 49 privately owned dogs with naturally occurring MMVD, with or without PH, were finally included (35 MMVD without PH, 14 MMVD with PH). The LAV and left ventricular volumes were obtained using 2DE and RT3DE. Echocardiographic parameters were analyzed to identify independent predictors of post-capillary PH. Results: We found that the left atrial and left ventricular volumes obtained using 2DE and RT3DE indexed to body weight and several 2DE-derived variables were univariately associated with post-capillary PH. Furthermore, multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that the RT3DE minimum LAV indexed to body weight (LAVi min) was the only significant independent predictor of post-capillary PH (odds ratio, 12.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.40--68.99; p = 0.003), with the highest area under the curve value of 0.86 (95% CI, 0.75-0.96; p < 0.001). Discussion: In conclusion, LAV indexed to body weight obtained using 2DE and RT3DE, can be a useful predictor of post-capillary PH in dogs with MMVD. In particular, the RT3DE LAVi min was observed to be the strongest predictor of post-capillary PH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common malignant liver tumor in dogs. Although surgical resection is a major treatment option for canine HCC, there are no distinct strategies for unresectable tumor subtypes or adjuvant chemotherapy for tumors with positive margins. We aimed to establish and characterize novel HCC cell lines from canine patients. Methods: The cellular morphology, general growth features and tumorigenicity of the established cell lines were evaluated. We also examined the sensitivity of the cell lines to multi-target tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Results: We established novel canine HCC cell lines from hepatic tumors and an additional kidney tumor of six canine patients. All cell lines showed colony forming and migratory ability. KU-cHCC-001 and KU-cHCC-001-Kidney, two cell lines exhibiting high epithelial-mesenchymal transition characteristics, showed tumorigenicity in xenografted mice. Toceranib, a veterinary TKI that targets vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFR)/platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR)/c-kit, effectively inhibited the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway and induced apoptosis. The established canine HCC cell lines showed greater sensitivity to toceranib than to sorafenib, a first-line treatment for human HCC targeting RAF/VEGFR/PDGFR. Sorafenib showed improved anti-tumor effects when co-treated with SCH772984, an extracellular signal-regulated kinase inhibitor. Conclusion: Our study suggests new therapeutic strategies for canine HCC, and these cell lines are valuable research materials for understanding HCC tumor biology in both humans and dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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As major sites of carbon burial and remineralization, continental margins are key components of the global carbon cycle. However, heterogeneous sources of organic matter (OM) and depositional environments lead to complex spatial patterns in sedimentary organic carbon (OC) content and composition. To better constrain the processes that control OM cycling, we focus on the East Asian marginal seas as a model system, where we compiled extensive data on the OC content, bulk isotopic composition (δ13C and Δ14C), total nitrogen, and mineral surface area of surficial sediments from previous studies and new measurements. We developed a spatial machine learning modeling framework to predict the spatial distribution of these parameters and identify regions where sediments with similar geochemical signatures drape the seafloor (i.e., "isodrapes"). We demonstrate that both provenance (44%-77%) and hydrodynamic processes (22%-53%) govern the fate of OM in this margin. Hydrodynamic processes can either promote the degradation of OM in mobile mud-belts or preserve it in stable mud-deposits. The distinct isotopic composition of OC sources from marine productivity and individual rivers regulates the age and reactivity of OM deposited on the sea-floor. The East Asian marginal seas can be separated into three main isodrapes: hydrodynamically energetic shelves with coarser-grained sediment depleted in OC, OM-enriched mud deposits, and a deep basin with fine-grained sediments and aged OC affected by long oxygen exposure times and petrogenic input from rivers. This study confirms that both hydrodynamic processes and provenance should be accounted for to understand the fate of OC in continental margins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]