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Objectives: To develop and validate CT-based deep learning (DL) models that learn morphological and histopathological features for lung adenocarcinoma prognostication, and to compare them with a previously developed DL discrete-time survival model. Methods: DL models were trained to simultaneously predict five morphological and histopathological features using preoperative chest CT scans from patients with resected lung adenocarcinomas. The DL score was validated in temporal and external test sets, with freedom from recurrence (FFR) and overall survival (OS) as outcomes. Discrimination was evaluated using the time-dependent area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (TD-AUC) and compared with the DL discrete-time survival model. Additionally, we performed multivariable Cox regression analysis. Results: In the temporal test set (640 patients; median age, 64 years), the TD-AUC was 0.79 for 5-year FFR and 0.73 for 5-year OS. In the external test set (846 patients; median age, 65 years), the TD-AUC was 0.71 for 5-year OS, equivalent to the pathologic stage (0.71 vs. 0.71 [p = 0.74]). The prognostic value of the DL score was independent of clinical factors (adjusted per-percentage hazard ratio for FFR (temporal test), 1.02 [95% CI: 1.01–1.03; p < 0.001]; OS (temporal test), 1.01 [95% CI: 1.002–1.02; p = 0.01]; OS (external test), 1.01 [95% CI: 1.005–1.02; p < 0.001]). Our model showed a higher TD-AUC than the DL discrete-time survival model, but without statistical significance (2.5-year OS: 0.73 vs. 0.68; p = 0.13). Conclusion: The CT-based prognostic score from collective deep learning of morphological and histopathological features showed potential in predicting survival in lung adenocarcinomas. Clinical relevance statement: Collective CT-based deep learning of morphological and histopathological features presents potential for enhancing lung adenocarcinoma prognostication and optimizing pre-/postoperative management. Key Points: • A CT-based prognostic model was developed using collective deep learning of morphological and histopathological features from preoperative CT scans of 3181 patients with resected lung adenocarcinoma. • The prognostic performance of the model was comparable-to-higher performance than the pathologic T category or stage. • Our approach yielded a higher discrimination performance than the direct survival prediction model, but without statistical significance (0.73 vs. 0.68; p=0.13). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To analyze the diagnostic performance and prognostic value of CT-defined visceral pleural invasion (CT-VPI) in early-stage lung adenocarcinomas. Methods: Among patients with clinical stage I lung adenocarcinomas, half of patients were randomly selected for a diagnostic study, in which five thoracic radiologists determined the presence of CT-VPI. Probabilities for CT-VPI were obtained using deep learning (DL). Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUCs) and binary diagnostic measures were calculated and compared. Inter-rater agreement was assessed. For all patients, the prognostic value of CT-VPI by two radiologists and DL (using high-sensitivity and high-specificity cutoffs) was investigated using Cox regression. Results: In 681 patients (median age, 65 years [interquartile range, 58–71]; 382 women), pathologic VPI was positive in 130 patients. For the diagnostic study (n = 339), the pooled AUC of five radiologists was similar to that of DL (0.78 vs. 0.79; p = 0.76). The binary diagnostic performance of radiologists was variable (sensitivity, 45.3–71.9%; specificity, 71.6–88.7%). Inter-rater agreement was moderate (weighted Fleiss κ, 0.51; 95%CI: 0.43–0.55). For overall survival (n = 680), CT-VPI by radiologists (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.27 and 0.99; 95%CI: 0.84–1.92 and 0.63–1.56; p = 0.26 and 0.97) or DL (HR, 1.44 and 1.06; 95%CI: 0.86–2.42 and 0.67–1.68; p = 0.17 and 0.80) was not prognostic. CT-VPI by an attending radiologist was prognostic only in radiologically solid tumors (HR, 1.82; 95%CI: 1.07–3.07; p = 0.03). Conclusion: The diagnostic performance and prognostic value of CT-VPI are limited in clinical stage I lung adenocarcinomas. This feature may be applied for radiologically solid tumors, but substantial reader variability should be overcome. Clinical relevance statement: Although the diagnostic performance and prognostic value of CT-VPI are limited in clinical stage I lung adenocarcinomas, this parameter may be applied for radiologically solid tumors with appropriate caution regarding inter-reader variability. Key Points: • Use of CT-defined visceral pleural invasion in clinical staging should be cautious, because prognostic value of CT-defined visceral pleural invasion remains unexplored. • Diagnostic performance and prognostic value of CT-defined visceral pleural invasion varied among radiologists and deep learning. • Role of CT-defined visceral pleural invasion in clinical staging may be limited to radiologically solid tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has severely affected older residents in long-term care (LTC) settings. However, care workers' perceptions of their work environment and potential impact on their work outcomes during the pandemic is not well known. This study examined associations between care staff's perceived work environment, educational status, and facility staffing levels and work outcomes of care staff in LTC settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study employed a cross-sectional, observational, correlational design. A total of 207 care staff were conveniently recruited from 30 LTC settings in South Korea. The perceived work environment, educational status of care staff, and facility staffing levels (ie, beds-to-registered nurse [RN] and beds-to-nursing assistant [NA] or care worker ratios), as well as their work outcomes (ie, general and COVID-19 specific outcomes) were collected using questionnaires. Multivariable binary logistic regressions were conducted, controlling for the characteristics of care staff (ie, age, sex, occupation, and career length) and facilities (ie, location, bed size, ownership, and residents' disease and care profiles). Approximately 45% of the participants were either NAs or care workers, and 38% were RNs. More than half (53.14%) perceived their work environment to be good. LTC staff who perceived their work environment to be poor were more likely to be dissatisfied with their work [odds ratio (OR) 20.88), experience high burnout (OR 8.63), intend to leave the facility within a year (OR 5.00), and experience increased overtime work (OR 3.58) and work-life imbalance (OR 1.93) due to COVID-19. LTC work environments should be improved and government-led initiatives for ensuring such improvements should be implemented to enable a better response to future public health crises and maintain the quality of care for and safety of residents in LTC settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing body of research has incorporated the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) into an expanded understanding of the social determinants of health. Although each component of SVI and its association with individual-level mental health conditions have been well discussed, variation in mentally unhealthy days (MUDs) at a county level is still unexplored. To systematically examine the geographically varying relationships between SVI and MUDs across the US counties, our study adopted two different methods: 1) aspatial regression modeling (ordinary least square [OLS]); and 2) locally calibrated spatial regression (geographically weighted regression [GWR]). This study used a cross-sectional statistical design and geospatial data manipulation/analysis techniques. Analytical unit is each of the 3109 counties in the continental USA. We tested the model performance of two different methods and suggest using both methods to reduce potential issues (e.g., Simpson's paradox) when researchers apply aspatial analysis to spatially coded data sets. We applied GWR after checking the spatial dependence of residuals and non-stationary issues in OLS. GWR split a single OLS equation into 3109 equations for each county. Among 15 SVI variables, a combination of eight variables showed the best model performance. Notably, unemployment, person with a disability, and single-parent households with children aged under 18 years especially impacted the variation of MUDs in OLS. GWR showed better model performance than OLS and specified each county's varying relationships between subcomponents of SVI and MUDs. For example, GWR specified that 69.3% (2157 of 3109) of counties showed positive relationships between single-parent households and MUDs across the USA. Higher positive relationships were concentrated in Michigan, Kansas, Texas, and Louisiana. Our findings could contribute to the literature regarding social determinants of community mental health by specifying spatially varying relationships between SVI and MUDs across US counties. Regarding policy implementation, in counties containing more social and physical minorities (e.g., single-parent households and disabled population), policymakers should attend to these groups of people and increase intervention programs to reduce potential or current mental health illness. The results of GWR could help policymakers determine the specific counties that need more support to reduce regional mental health disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although social interaction is important for dementia care and well-being of persons living with dementia, a limited number of studies have reported. This study aimed to examine whether the presence, type, and quality of social interaction is associated with psychological well-being among residents with dementia. Methods: This study analyzed 258 videos of 30 participants living with dementia. Social interaction was assessed by quality, type, and presence of interaction. Psychological well-being was measured by positive and negative emotional expressions. A mixed model was used for data analysis since these repeatedly measured observation data were nested within subjects. Results: Positive and neutral interactions were significantly associated with positive emotional expressions after controlling covariates, while negative interaction was significantly associated with negative emotional expressions. There was no significant relationship found between interaction presence or type and emotional expressions. Conclusions: This study showed interaction quality is essential to promote psychological well-being in persons living with dementia regardless of presence or type of interaction. This study highlights the importance of positive care provider interactions in dementia care. Additionally, institutional efforts to create an environment to reduce negative interactions appears essential to improve the psychological well-being of persons living with dementia. Trial registration: The study was reviewed and approved by the Yonsei University Institutional Review Board on October 16, 2020 (ref no: Y-2020-0158). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We assessed the effects of exercise on the physical function and health quality of life (hQoL) in prostate cancer patients underwent androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Additionally, the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the physical function and hQoL in these patients were compared with those of moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT). Methods: Seventeen prostate cancer patients who underwent ADT were prospectively allocated to either HIIT (n = 9) or MICT (n = 8). In these patients, physical function and hQoL were measured before and after 12 weeks of exercise and 3–6 months after the exercise program, respectively. Results: Although the whole-body total mass significantly increased after the exercise program, it was equivalent regardless of the exercise methods. After the exercise program, muscle strength and endurance improved and tended to be maintained until 3–6 months later. Improvement in muscle endurance was more prominent after HIIT, and that in muscle strength was more prominent after MICT. Performance in the senior fitness test improved after the exercise program, and HIIT was more effective for lower and upper muscle endurance and flexibility, although MICT was more effective for the others. The hQoL significantly improved 3–6 months after the exercise program. Conclusion: The 12-week exercise program has a positive effect on the physical function and hQoL in prostate cancer patients who underwent ADT. In these patients, compared with MICT, HIIT may be a better option for improving muscle endurance, which is thought to be significant for preventing falls and fractures in elderly patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this randomized phase II study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of sorafenib in combination with capecitabine and cisplatin (XP) as first‐line chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer. Patients and Methods: Patients with metastatic gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma were randomized (1:1) to receive either sorafenib plus XP (S + XP) or XP alone. In cases of disease progression in the XP arm, crossover to sorafenib alone was allowed. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS). The secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), response rates, safety profiles, and biomarkers, and the response rates and PFS with secondline sorafenib alone after progression in the XP arm. Results: Between Jan 2011 and Feb 2013, a total of 195 patients were accrued (97 in the S + XP arm and 98 in the XP alone arm). The overall response rate was 54% with S + XP, and 52% with XP alone (p = 0.83). With a median follow‐up of 12.6 months (range, 0.1–29.2), the median PFS assessed by independent review was 5.6 months in the S + XP arm and 5.3 months in the XP arm (hazard ratio [HR] 0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.67–1.27, p = 0.61). Overall survival was not different between the two arms (median 11.7 vs. 10.8 months; HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.65–1.31, p = 0.66). Frequencies of grade 3/4 toxicities were similar between the S + XP and XP alone arms, except for neutropenia (21% vs. 37%), anorexia (0% vs. 5%), and hand‐foot skin reaction (7% vs. 1%). Among 51 patients who crossed over to sorafenib alone after disease progression in the XP arm, there was no objective response and their median PFS was 1.3 months (95% CI, 1.2–1.7). Conclusion: The addition of sorafenib to XP chemotherapy was safe but not more effective than XP alone for first‐line treatment of metastatic gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives The concept of person-centered care has been utilized/adapted to various interventions to enhance health-related outcomes and ensure the quality of care delivered to persons living with dementia. A few systematic reviews have been conducted on the use of person-centered interventions in the context of dementia care, but to date, none have analyzed intervention effect by intervention type and target outcome. This study aimed to review person-centered interventions used in the context of dementia care and examine their effectiveness. Research Design and Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. We searched through 5 databases for randomized controlled trials that utilized person-centered interventions in persons living with dementia from 1998 to 2019. Study quality was assessed using the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence checklist. The outcomes of interest for the meta-analysis were behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD) and cognitive function assessed immediately after the baseline measurement. Results In total, 36 studies were systematically reviewed. Intervention types were reminiscence, music, and cognitive therapies, and multisensory stimulation. Thirty studies were included in the meta-analysis. Results showed a moderate effect size for overall intervention, a small one for music therapy, and a moderate one for reminiscence therapy on BPSD and cognitive function. Discussion and Implications Generally speaking, person-centered interventions showed immediate intervention effects on reducing BPSD and improving cognitive function, although the effect size and significance of each outcome differed by intervention type. Thus, health care providers should consider person-centered interventions as a vital element in dementia care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This longitudinal study aimed to explore the event-specific emotional expressions of persons living with dementia in long-term care during a 6-month period with repeated observations. Emotional expressions at three specific events (mealtime, personal care, and social activity) were videotaped at the beginning, month 3, and month 6. Thirty participants were enrolled, and nine observations were made for each participant. Mixed-effect models were used for statistical analysis. The type of care events, the person who provides care, and the facility type were associated with emotional expressions. Specifically, personal care, interaction with non-nursing providers, and facility type were associated with positive emotional expressions. Negative emotional expressions were related to personal care, interaction with family or volunteer, and facility type. This study provides a better understanding of event-specific emotional expressions and knowledge to support the development of emotion-oriented intervention programs to improve the psychological well-being of persons living with dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulpitis constitutes a significant challenge in clinical management due to its impact on peripheral nerve tissue and the persistence of chronic pain. Despite its clinical importance, the correlation between neuronal activity and the expression of voltage-gated sodium channel 1.7 (Nav1.7) in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) during pulpitis is less investigated. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between experimentally induced pulpitis and Nav1.7 expression in the TG and to investigate the potential of selective Nav1.7 modulation to attenuate TG abnormal activity associated with pulpitis. Acute pulpitis was induced at the maxillary molar (M1) using allyl isothiocyanate (AITC). The mice were divided into three groups: control, pulpitis model, and pulpitis model treated with ProTx-II, a selective Nav1.7 channel inhibitor. After three days following the surgery, we conducted a recording and comparative analysis of the neural activity of the TG utilizing in vivo optical imaging. Then immunohistochemistry and Western blot were performed to assess changes in the expression levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Fos, collapsin response mediator protein-2 (CRMP2), and Nav1.7 channels. The optical imaging result showed significant neurological excitation in pulpitis TGs. Nav1.7 expressions exhibited upregulation, accompanied by signaling molecular changes suggestive of inflammation and neuroplasticity. In addition, inhibition of Nav1.7 led to reduced neural activity and subsequent decreases in ERK, c-Fos, and CRMP2 levels. These findings suggest the potential for targeting overexpressed Nav1.7 channels to alleviate pain associated with pulpitis, providing practical pain management strategies. • Nav1.7 channels are overexpressed in AITC-induced pulpitis animal model. • ProTx-II relieves pulpitis-induced hyperactivities in the trigeminal ganglia. • Regulation of Nav1.7 is closely correlated to the treatment of pulpitis pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Behavioral symptoms during mealtime can prohibit persons living with dementia from obtaining sufficient nutrition. However, little research has examined the relationship between behavioral symptoms and caregiving approaches. This study examines this relationship and further explores which specific caregiver behaviors were related to behavioral symptoms among persons living with dementia. Methods: A secondary data analysis was performed using 86 mealtime videos from a longitudinal, observational study. The videos were repeatedly taken at months 0, 3, and 6 with 30 persons living with dementia in one of four long-term care facilities. Video coding was performed using coding schemes modified from the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory for behavioral symptoms and the Person-/Task-Centered Behavior Inventory for caregiving approaches. Coding schemes for behavioral symptoms consisted of four categories: total duration, aggressive behavior, physically nonaggressive behavior, and verbally agitated behavior. Caregiving approaches consisted of ten-verbal/seven-nonverbal person-centered behavior codes, four-verbal/four-nonverbal task-centered behavior codes, and no-verbal/no-nonverbal interaction codes. A mixed-effect model was conducted using variables such as demographics, medical information, cognitive status, depression, function, and caregiving approaches as fixed effects, participant as a random effect, and four categories of behavioral symptoms as dependent variables. Results: The total duration of the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory was associated with no verbal response (β = 9.09) and task-centered verbal behavior (β = 8.43), specifically verbal controlling (β = 7.87). Physically nonaggressive behavior was associated with no verbal response (β = 9.36). Verbally agitated behavior was associated with task-centered nonverbal behavior (β = 51.29), and specifically inappropriate touch (β = 59.05). Conclusions: Mealtime is indispensable to dementia care for ensuring adequate nutrition and promoting personhood. Our findings revealed caregivers' task-centered behaviors and no interaction were related to behavioral symptoms of persons living with dementia. When caregivers encounter behavioral symptoms during mealtime, it is recommended to avoid no response and task-centered behaviors, especially verbal controlling and inappropriate touch, and to promote person-centered behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that may associate with other chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. We observed the effects of blood pressure (BP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and insulin on asthma in Korean adults. Methods Data from 5045 adults were taken from the 2015 Sixth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and analysed using a multiple logistic regression model. Results By age, the probability of asthma occurrence was 1.02 times higher (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.02 [95% CI 1.01 to 1.03]). Specifically, asthma occurrence was increased in individuals >66 years of age (aOR 2.40 [95% CI 1.22 to 4.72]). The probability of asthma occurrence in females was higher than in males (aOR 1.73 [95% CI 1.02 to 2.84]). Hypertension and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were found to increase the probability of asthma occurrence by 1.43- and 1.03-fold, respectively. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was another factor that increased with the occurrence of asthma (aOR 1.75 [95% CI 1.06 to 3.02]). The probability of asthma occurrence was not increased with the FBG level, whereas HbA1c (aOR 1.38 [95% CI 1.03 to 1.84]) and insulin levels (aOR 1.02 [95% CI 1.01 to 1.04]) were shown to increase the occurrence of asthma. Conclusions Age, sex, hypertension, SBP, DM, HbA1c and insulin levels are all factors that may influence the occurrence of asthma in Korean adults. In particular, hypertension and diabetes emerge from the present study as potential associated factors for the development of asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Quality of life (QoL) is an important component of individuals' general well-being, particularly in older adults. However, factors influencing QoL among older adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have not been fully examined. Furthermore, the role of gender differences in relation to QoL in multiple LMICs has also not been examined in detail.Methods: This study used data from the World Health Organization's Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE), Wave-1. Based on a literature review of existing works, a set of variables-an independent variable and covariates-were selected. The study sample consisted of 33,019 participants aged 50 years and above from China, Ghana, India, Russia, and South Africa. Multivariate linear regression models were estimated with the World Health Organization QoL scores as the dependent variable. To preserve the analytical sample size, multiple imputation was used to account for missing data.Results: The results showed that generally, male older adults reported a better QoL than female older adults across all of the countries. The associations between QoL and sociodemographic factors, health-related factors, and social support factors among older adults differed according to country.Conclusions: This study provides a better understanding of QoL among older adults in LMICs, which can help prepare LMICs to better address the QoL of older adults. The results of this study can be used to develop programs to promote better living standards and services to reduce gender disparities and ultimately, to improve the QoL among older adults in LMICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orostachys japonicus is a popular traditional medicinal herb used in Asian countries. This study is focused on evaluating its role in lipid and glucose metabolism in cell and animal models to establish the plant as an anti-obesity and antidiabetic herb. A butanol fraction of O. japonicus was used in the study. The lipid production was evaluated by the Oil Red O technique while the expression of adipogenic markers by Western blotting and RT-PCR using 3T3-L1 preadipocyte. The effect on glucose uptake activity was evaluated in C2C12 myoblast cells. The animal study was carried out in C57BL mice to evaluate anti-obesity activity using the high-fat diet model. The evaluation of serum lipid, blood glucose, adipogenic and fibrosis markers in the liver, and fat deposition in the liver and adipose tissue (by histology) of mice was conducted. Butanol fraction of O. japonicus significantly inhibited the lipid production in the 3T3-L1 cells and reduced the expression of PPARγ, C/EBPα, SREBP-1c and aP2. It enhanced glucose uptake in insulin-resistant C2C12 myoblast cells. It reduced body weight, triglycerides, and blood glucose in the obese mice. It significantly inhibited lipid accumulation in the liver and adipose tissue of obese mice along with suppression of expression of adipogenic and fibrosis markers in the liver. In summary, supporting the previous results, this study helped to establish the potent anti-obesity, antidiabetic, and liver-protecting effect of the butanol fraction of O. japonicus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The various restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic may have worsened the digital divide and health inequality. However, research to ascertain the association between Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources among older adults with disabilities is scarce. This study aimed to explore the relationship between Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources among older adults with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the associated factors by disability severity. Methods: Data from the 2020 survey of people with disabilities in South Korea were used. This secondary analysis study included 4,871 older adults aged 55 and above among 7,025 total responders. Complex sample logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the association between Internet use and difficulties in acquiring health resources during the pandemic. Results: Only 23.66% of older adults with disabilities used the Internet. Internet non-users were more likely to experience difficulties in obtaining health resources than Internet users. The relationship between Internet non-use and difficulties in acquiring COVID-19-related information (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.28–1.92) and buying and using personal protective equipment (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.11–1.65) were statistically significant in the overall sample. Whereas, difficulties with using medical services were not statistically significantly associated with Internet use. Additionally, factors associated with difficulties in acquiring health resources differed by disability severity. Conclusions: Considering that older adults with disabilities experience triple the burden amid COVID-19 due to old age, disabilities, and the digital divide, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and engineers should aim to narrow the gaps between Internet users and Internet non-users among this population. Narrowing the gaps will make decreasing health gaps and increasing well-being among older adults with disabilities more attainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mediastinal lymph node enlargement (LNE) is common in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and is known to be associated with the severity of lung fibrosis. However, the relationship between mediastinal LNE and the prognosis of IPF has not been determined to date. Methods: This study included patients with IPF from the interstitial lung disease registry at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, from January 2012 to March 2016. Two thoracic radiologists independently reviewed mediastinal LNE and lung parenchymal fibrosis and ground glass opacities in chest computed tomography scans of each patient, which were obtained upon diagnosis. Mortality and admission rates were analyzed. Results: In total, 132 patients (104 [78.8%] male; median age, 72 years; range, 51–84 years) were enrolled and 73 (55.3%) patients had mediastinal LNE (short axis ≥ 10 mm in diameter). Mortality was significantly higher among patients with LNE than among those without LNE (hazard ratio 2.26 [95% confidence interval 1.20–4.23], p = 0.011). Of the patients with LNE, 24.7% experienced acute exacerbation and 43.8% experienced hospital admission for respiratory causes, in comparison with 16.9% and 40.0% of patients without LNE respectively. Although patients with LNE had a tendency to have increased rate of acute exacerbation, it was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Mediastinal LNE in IPF is associated with increased mortality and its occurrence may be considered a poor prognostic factor in patients with IPF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Sacroiliitis refers to the inflammatory condition of the sacroiliac joints, frequently causing lower back pain. It is often associated with systemic conditions. However, its signs on radiographic images can be subtle, which may result in it being overlooked or underdiagnosed. This study aims to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to create a diagnostic tool for more accurate sacroiliitis detection in radiological images, with the goal of optimizing treatment plans and improving patient outcomes. Materials and Method: The study included 492 patients who visited our hospital. Right sacroiliac joint films were independently evaluated by two musculoskeletal radiologists using the Modified New York criteria (Normal, Grades 1–4). A consensus reading resolved disagreements. The images were preprocessed with Z-score standardization and histogram equalization. The DenseNet121 algorithm, a convolutional neural network with 201 layers, was used for learning and classification. All steps were performed on the DEEP:PHI platform. Result: The AI model exhibited high accuracy across different grades: 94.53% (Grade 1), 95.83% (Grade 2), 98.44% (Grade 3), 96.88% (Grade 4), and 96.09% (Normal cases). Sensitivity peaked at Grade 3 and Normal cases (100%), while Grade 4 achieved perfect specificity (100%). PPVs ranged from 82.61% (Grade 1) to 100% (Grade 4), and NPVs peaked at 100% for Grade 3 and Normal cases. The F1 scores ranged from 64.41% (Grade 1) to 95.38% (Grade 3). Conclusions: The AI diagnostic model showcased a robust performance in detecting and grading sacroiliitis, reflecting its potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy in clinical settings. By facilitating earlier and more accurate diagnoses, this model could substantially impact treatment strategies and patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined consumer perceptions about green tea quality attributes and consumers’ green tea consumption behavior within major green tea-producing and consuming countries including China, Japan, and Korea. Five factors of green tea quality attributes were revealed through the exploratory factor analysis and were analyzed using importance–performance analysis (IPA). Safety, health, and sensory factors perceived by Chinese consumers as being important and well-performed were positioned in the “Keep Up the Good Work” quadrant. Safety and sensory factors were perceived by Japanese and Koreans as being important, but were less-performed and were placed in the “Concentrate Here” quadrant. Japanese and Koreans considered the health factor as less important and less well-performed and were positioned in the “Low Priority” quadrant. The price/utility and production factors were less important by all consumers. Chinese consumers perceived all five factors as performing very well. However, Japanese and Koreans perceived other factors as performing less acceptable except for the production factor for Korean respondents and the price/utility factor for those Japanese respondents. The production factor was the most influential for drinking frequency and spending for green tea in all three countries, also for the amount purchased by Chinese and Japanese consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A double left brachiocephalic vein is an uncommon anatomic variation. Among these, a accessory branch with preaortic course is extremely rare. In this case, both branches of the left brachiocephalic vein were anterior to the aortic arch. We describe the computed tomography findings with volume-rendering imaging of this rare anatomic variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Older adults with dementia are more likely than those who do not have dementia to be hospitalized. Admission functional (ADL) performance is a salient factor predicting functional performance in older adults at discharge. The days preceding hospitalization are often associated with functional loss related to the acute illness. An understanding of functional changes during this transition will inform interventions to prevent functional decline. This secondary analysis examined data from a study that evaluated a family educational empowerment model and included 136 dyads (persons with dementia and their family caregiver). AMOS structural equation modeling examined the effects of family caregiver factors upon change in patient ADL performance (Barthel Index) from baseline (two week prior to hospitalization) to the time of admission, controlling for patient characteristics. Eighty-two percent of the patients had decline prior to admission. Baseline function, depression, and dementia severity, as well as Family caregiver strain, were significantly associated with change in pre-admission ADL performance and explained 40% of the variance. There was a good fit of the model to the data (Χ 2 = 12.9, p = 0.305, CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.05). Findings suggest the need for a function-focused approach when admitting patients with dementia to the hospital. FCG strain prior to hospitalization may be a factor impacting trajectory of functional changes in older person with dementia, especially in those with advanced dementia. FCG strain is an important assessment parameter in the risk assessment for functional decline, to be considered when engaging the FCG in the plan for functional recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To evaluate family-related stressors and resources associated with the depressive symptoms of military members and their spouses. Background Most deployment-related research has focused on deployment and reintegration, but there is a dearth of information about military families during the pre-deployment phase. Family stress theory provided a valuable lens from which to view family-related risk and protective factors associated with adaptation during times of stressful transition. Method Data were gathered using an online survey from 151 U.S. Army National Guard members and their spouses preparing for a scheduled deployment. Hierarchical regression was utilized to examine associations between the independent variables (e.g., stress pileup, informal and formal resources, deployment preparation) and participants' depressive symptoms. Results Results revealed that aspects of stress pileup were positively associated with depressive symptoms. Informal resources and deployment preparation, but not formal resources, had statistically significant negative associations with individuals' depressive symptoms. Findings were similar for military members and spouses. Conclusion Results indicated that logistical and instrumental preparation, in addition to informal resources such as effective family functioning and social support, are important for positive adaptation in times of stressful transition. Implications Family service professionals may want to assist families with identifying and strengthening their family support and improving family functioning, as well as guide families in a process of identifying the instrumental and logistical tasks that are necessary or helpful for an impending transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To determine the association between the progression of upper lung fibrosis and paratracheal air cysts (PACs) size. Materials and Methods. The thoracic CT images of 4573 patients were reviewed for the prevalence, size, and location of PACs and their communication with trachea. In addition, the presence of upper lung fibrosis, emphysema, and bronchiectasis was evaluated in patients with PACs and compared with a control group without PACs. Upper lung fibrosis was analyzed using a fibrosis score system. Results. The prevalence of PACs was 6.8%. Communication with tracheal lumen was demonstrated by 31.5% of patients with PACs. The prevalence of fibrosis, emphysema, and bronchiectasis in patients with PACs were 67.5%, 21.9%, and 28.3%, respectively. The prevalence of fibrosis was significantly different in the two groups by univariable and multivariable analysis (odds ratio = 2.077, P<0.001). 140 patients with fibrosis among PAC group underwent a previous or follow-up CT; the prevalence with increase in PAC sizes was higher in patients with increase in fibrosis score than those without it (66.2% versus 17.3%, P<0.001). Conclusions. PACs appear to be highly related to upper lung fibrosis and moderately related to bronchiectasis. In patients with fibrosis, PAC sizes tended to increase with the progression of upper lung fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose To examine the relationship between environmental ambience and psychological well-being of persons with dementia. Design A secondary analysis was conducted using observational data with repeated measures. A total of 1,857 observations from 177 persons with dementia in 17 nursing homes and 6 assisted living facilities were included. Methods Psychological well-being was measured by observed displays of positive and negative emotional expressions. The environmental ambience was assessed by two subscales of the Ambiance Scale: Engaging and Soothing. Multilevel modeling was used to account for hierarchical structures in the data. Findings An engaging environment was associated with more positive emotional expressions after controlling for covariates. However, a soothing environment was associated with neither positive nor negative emotional expressions. Conclusions Results suggest that the environment is an important consideration for administrators and clinicians as they respond to the mandate to actively plan and provide care to persons with dementia. Clinical Relevance An environment that is relevant and interesting may promote a sense of well-being and support resident-centered care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the added value of post-contrast VIBE (volumetric-interpolated breath-hold examination) to PET/MR imaging for pulmonary nodule detection in patients with primary malignancies. Materials and Methods: This retrospective institutional review board–approved study, with waiver of informed consent, included 51 consecutive patients who underwent 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/MR followed by PET/CT for cancer staging. In all patients, the thorax was examined with pre-and post-contrast VIBE MR with simultaneous PET acquisition. Two readers blinded to the patients’ data independently recorded their level of suspicion for pulmonary nodules based on PET, pre-contrast VIBE, and fused PET/MR images (first session), and reassessed them 4-weeks later after addition of post-contrast VIBE (second session). Jackknife alternative free-response receiver-operating-characteristic (JAFROC) analysis was performed, with PET/CT as the reference standard. Results: A total of 151 pulmonary nodules (44 FDG-avid, 107 non-FDG-avid nodules) were detected on PET/CT, including 62 nodules≥5mm in diameter and 89 nodules<5mm. In the first session, the average nodule detection rate was 53.3% for all nodules, 97.7% for FDG-avid, 35.0% for non-FDG-avid nodules, 87.9% for nodules≥5mm and 29.2% for nodules<5mm. In the second session, the average detection rate was 53.3% for all nodules, 97.7% for FDG-avid, 35.0% for non-FDG-avid nodules, 85.5% for nodules≥5mm and 30.9% for nodules<5mm. The average JAFROC figure-of-merit was 0.837 in the first session and 0.848 in the second session. There were no significant differences in detection performance between sessions (P=0.48). Conclusion: The addition of post-contrast VIBE to hybrid PET/MR imaging provided no additional value in the detection of pulmonary nodules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To examine the relationship between self-reported pain and psychological well-being of people with dementia (PWD) living in residential long-term care as indicated by displays of observed emotional expression over the daytime period. Design Secondary analysis using repeated measures of self-report and observational data. Setting and Subjects A total of 177 PWD were included from 17 nursing homes and six assisted living facilities in Michigan and Pennsylvania. Methods Negative emotional expression was used as an indicator of reduced psychological well-being. Pain was assessed through PWD's response to a question about presence of pain obtained at each observation. Cognitive impairment was assessed using the Mini-Mental Status Examination. Linear mixed models were used that accounted for correlation of negative emotional expression measurements over time for each participant and between participants within the same facility. Results Among 171 participants who were able to express their pain, 44% of PWD reported pain once or more during the daytime period. Severity of cognitive impairment was related to expression of negative emotion. PWD with pain displayed more negative emotional expression than PWD without pain. Conclusions Routine pain assessment is feasible among PWD with moderate to severe dementia and positive report of pain is associated with greater observed negative emotional expression, an indicator of reduced psychological well-being. Improving pain management holds potential for enhancing psychological well-being among PWD living in residential long-term care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim We examined the relationship between cognitive impairment and dental care utilization among older adults in the USA. Methods A total of 329 older adults aged 70 years and older in West Virginia, USA, were included in the present analyses. We carried out multivariate ordinal regression analyses. Results Individuals with dementia were less likely to visit a dentist regularly, and more time had passed since their last dental visit compared with individuals with normal cognitive function. However, the pattern of dental care utilization for those with cognitive impairment, not dementia did not differ from individuals with normal cognition. A perceived greater social network and having dental insurance were associated with increased dental care utilization. Conclusions Less dental care utilization might contribute to the oral health problems often observed among individuals with dementia. Efforts to increase the use of dental care should include cost-effective options for dental insurance. In addition, educating formal and informal caregivers on the importance of dental care might be beneficial, as these individuals are in the best position to facilitate dental care for individuals with dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 255-260. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the field of outdoor recreation, past research has attempted to identify the relationships between the socioeconomic status of recreation participants and demand. This approach has used global regression models that focus on local or site-level recreation demand prediction. No studies have applied spatial statistical approaches to examine recreation demand at the state or regional level. The objectives of this study are twofold: 1) to identify socio-demographic and economic determinants of the spatial disparities of residents' demand for national park visitation; 2) to demonstrate the spatial variation in the relationship between residents' demand and its associated factors through a local regression modeling technique (GWR). The analysis was conducted at the county level for Texas, using public and private levels of secondary data. A particular version of OLS (ordinary least squares), stepwise regression, was used to select significant explanatory variables for developing the model. Six explanatory variables were selected for the modeling procedure: 1) older adults; 2) family structure (traditional vs. nonfamily structure); 3) recreation-related spending; 4) education, and 5) poverty rate. The study results found that the Moran's I value for national park visitation showed a positive spatial autocorrelation across the state which means that spatial distribution disparities of residents' recreation demand exist in Texas. The variable relationships differed by specific counties and spatially in predicting residents' demand. The GWR model made improvements in model performance over the OLS model. Overall, the strongest positive influence on national park visitation was found for those who spent $250 or more to purchase recreation-related equipment. In conducting future research, the GWR model is a useful statistical technique to examine and compare spatial relationships across regional study areas and can be complementary to global statistical analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to illuminate the processes of how spouses reach an agreement to remain childless, specifically finding out what spouses do, say, and feel in the process using grounded theory methods. This study conceptualized reaching an agreement not to have children as a dyadic process. Based on in-depth conjoint interviews with 20 married couples, 3 decision-making types were identified: mutual early articulator couples, mutual postponer couples, and nonmutual couples. The decision-making processes of voluntarily childless couples included three phases, agreement, acceptance, and closing of the door as well as two driving forces of the process, the strength of conviction and the importance of the relationship. The three types of couples navigated the process differently. The implications of the findings and directions for future research are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Aim The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between staffing and job satisfaction of registered nurses ( RNs) and nursing assistants ( NAs). Background Although a number of previous studies have demonstrated the link between the numbers of patients cared for on the last shift and/or perceptions of staffing adequacy, we could find only one study that utilized a measure of actual staffing (opposed to perceptions of staffing adequacy) and correlated it with job satisfaction of registered nurses. Methods This cross-sectional study included 3523 RNs and 1012 NAs in 131 patient care units. Staff were surveyed to determine job satisfaction and demographic variables. In addition, actual staffing data were collected from each of the study units. Results Hours per patient day was a significant positive predictor for registered nurse job satisfaction after controlling for covariates. For NAs, a lower skill mix was marginally significant with higher job satisfaction. In addition, the more work experience the NAs reported, the lower their job satisfaction. Conclusion Adequate staffing levels are essential for RN job satisfaction whereas NA job satisfaction depends on the number of assistive personnel in the mix of nursing staff. Implications for Nursing Management Two implications are (1) providing adequate staffing is critical to maintain RN job satisfaction and (2) the NA job needs to be re-engineered to make it a more attractive and satisfying career. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective This study explored the relationship between observable emotional expression and wandering behaviors of people with dementia (PWD). Methods A secondary data analysis was conducted of a multi-site study that used a cross-sectional design with repeated measures nested within subjects. Participants included 142 PWD residing in 17 nursing homes and six assisted-living facilities in Michigan and Pennsylvania who were randomly assigned to six 20-min videotaped observation periods, conducted on two non-consecutive days. Poisson hierarchical linear modeling was used to examine associations between emotional expression and wandering. Results Participants exhibited an average of 13.5 (standard deviation [ SD] ± 12.4) episodes of positive emotional expression per observation; only 1.5 ( SD ± 2.3) episodes of negative emotional expression per observation were noted. The mean wandering rate was 2.9 episodes ( SD ± 6.9) per hour. Positive emotional expression was positively related to wandering rates, whereas negative emotional expression and higher cognitive status were negatively related to wandering rates after controlling for other predictors (age, education, gender, facility type, mobility, and time of day). Conclusions Both positive and negative emotional expressions, along with cognitive status, should be considered when developing interventions to improve wandering behaviors of PWD. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To examine the relationship between cognitive function and self-reported oral health-related quality of life ( HRQoL) in community-dwelling older adults. Design Cross-sectional. Setting Community in West Virginia. Participants Two hundred twenty-six community-dwelling older adults. Measurements Oral HRQoL was measured using the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index ( GOHAI) (range 12-60), and cognitive function was assessed using a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. Dental professionals performed oral health examinations. Results Participants with normal cognitive function had higher GOHAI total scores (mean 55.1), indicating better oral HRQoL, than participants with cognitive impairment without dementia ( CIND) (mean 52.3) and mild dementia (mean 51.0). The difference remained significant after controlling for sociodemographic, health status, comorbidity, and clinical dental status covariates. Conclusion Oral HRQoL, as measured using the GOHAI, was better in participants with normal cognitive function than in those with CIND of mild dementia in the population studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To counteract oxidative stress and associated brain diseases, antioxidant systems rescue neuronal cells from oxidative stress by neutralizing reactive oxygen species and preserving gene regulation. It is necessary to understand the communication and interactions between brain cells, including neurons, astrocytes and microglia, to understand oxidative stress and antioxidant mechanisms. Here, the role of glia in the protection of neurons against oxidative injury and glia–neuron crosstalk to maintain antioxidant defense mechanisms and brain protection are reviewed. The first part of this review focuses on the role of glia in the morphological and physiological changes required for brain homeostasis under oxidative stress and antioxidant defense mechanisms. The second part focuses on the essential crosstalk between neurons and glia for redox balance in the brain for protection against oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three Zn/ZSM-5 catalysts with Si/Al ratios of 17, 33, and 42 were treated with a weak base (Na2CO3) to create a hierarchical microporous-mesoporous system and to improve the catalyst stability in the aromatization of 2-methly-2-butene, a model compound that represented branched olefin byproducts that are produced from fluidized catalytic cracking. The Si/Al ratio of the parent ZSM-5 had a critical effect on the nature of the modified pore system. Thus, for Zn/ZSM-5 with a Si/Al ratio of 42, a hierarchical microporous-mesoporous system was formed in which intraparticle bimodal mesopores were in the form of cavities and cylinders, the latter of which connected internal micropores to the external surface of the catalyst. This pore structure was most suitable for enhancing the tolerance to coking and brought a dramatic increase in the catalyst stability in the aromatization of 2-methyl-2-butene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A new method to modify the acidity of zeolite was attempted to improve the activity and stability of Zn/ZSM-5 in aromatization of 2-methyl-2-butene. Pre-coking and regeneration in the presence of O2 at 773K generated a large exothermic heat in a short time, which resulted in the thermal dealumination of framework aluminum that acted as a Brønsted acid site. The treatment had a profound effect on the acid properties of the catalyst as probed by 27Al MAS NMR, temperature-programmed desorption of ammonia, and pyridine FTIR. The results showed that the concentration of oxygen in regeneration step had critical effects on the acidity and stability of Zn/ZSM-5. Thus improvement of lifetime of Zn/ZSM-5 in aromatization of 2-methyl-2-butene was achieved without deteriorating activity and selectivity by the pre-coking and controlled regeneration by oxygen. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To determine if nurse staffing predicts teamwork. A cross-sectional, descriptive design with a sample of nursing staff ( N= 2,545) on 52 patient care units in four hospitals was utilized. The Nursing Teamwork Survey was utilized to collect data on the level of perceived nursing teamwork on each of the study units. In addition, nursing staffing data were collected for each study unit. Higher levels of nurse staffing were related to better teamwork. Specifically, the greater the hours per patient day, the higher the level of overall teamwork on the unit (β= 0.417, p= .033). Also the greater the skill mix, the higher the level of overall teamwork on the unit (β= 0.436, p= .009). Adequate levels of staffing are needed to ensure nursing teamwork. The ability to provide quality and safe care is associated with teamwork, which in turn requires adequate staffing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: FK506 has been originally classified as an immunosuppressant and is known to exhibit neurotrophic actions in vitro and protective effects on some neurological conditions. We investigated the neuroprotective effects of FK506 on kainic acid (KA)-induced neuronal death in organotypic hippocampal slice cultures (OHSCs). After an 18h KA (5μM) treatment, significantly neuronal death was detected in the CA3 region using propidium iodide staining. However, neuronal death was significantly prevented at 24 and 48h after treatment with 0.1μM FK506. Using cresyl violet staining, we also observed that an increased number of CA3 neurons survived in the 0.1μM FK506 group compared to the KA only group. Based on the results of the Western blot analysis, the expressions of 5-lipoxygenase and caspase-3 were reduced 24h after 0.1μM FK506 treatment. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and phospho-Akt expression were increased by treatment with 0.1μM FK506. These results suggest that FK506 may have a positive role in protecting neurons against cell death in the KA injury model of OHSCs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To clarify the differences in clinical characteristics between early and late ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Design: Retrospective study. Setting: Tertiary university hospital. Patient(s): Ninety-four patients/cycles hospitalized for moderate-to-severe OHSS after controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) for IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI); early type (n = 69) and late type (n = 25). Intervention(s): None. Main Outcome Measure(s): The COH and pregnancy outcomes, preclinical and clinical miscarriage rate, and hospital courses. Result(s): Serum E2 levels (4,955.5 ± 3,268.5 pg/mL vs. 2,340.8 ± 960.6 pg/mL) and the number of follicles ≥11 mm on day of hCG administration (15.9 ± 6.0 vs. 13.0 ± 4.0), and the number of oocytes retrieved (21.9 ± 9.7 vs. 13.2 ± 5.9) were significantly higher in the early OHSS group compared with the late OHSS group. Clinical pregnancy rate (PR) was significantly higher in the late OHSS group (23.6% [13/55] vs. 92.0% [23/25]). There were no significant differences in multiple PR and disease severity between the two groups. Conclusion(s): Early OHSS is associated with excessive ovarian response to gonadotropin stimulation, whereas late OHSS is closely associated with conception cycle. Our findings do not support that late OHSS is more severe and closely associated with multiple pregnancies compared with early OHSS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was conducted to whether the administration of mexiletine, a Na+ channel blocker, impacts the recovery from demyelination. Under anesthesia, 0.1% ethidium bromide was injected into the dorsal funiculus (T3), followed by a mexiletine or saline treatment. Motor evoked potential (MEP) recordings and luxol fast blue stainings were performed at one, seven, 14, and 21 days post-operatively. Conduction was delayed during demyelination, but the mexiletine-injected group demonstrated shortened latencies and reductions in the demyelination area when compared to the control. These results suggest that systemic mexiletine plays a positive role in protecting neural tissues from demyelination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Gemcitabine is the only drug approved for single-agent therapy in advanced pancreatic carcinoma (APC). Gemcitabine-based combination chemotherapy has not yet shown promising results. This multicenter phase II study enrolled previously untreated patients with locally advanced and/or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Patients received 1,000 mg/m2 gemcitabine, 100-min infusion, day 1 and 100 mg/m2 oxaliplatin, 2-h infusion, day 2; q2w. The primary end point was response rate (RR). Thirteen study centers enrolled 48 eligible patients of which 44 were evaluable. The RR, median overall survival, and median time to progression were 18.2%, 9.4 and 5.6 months, respectively. Sixteen patients (36.4%) experienced clinical benefit. The global quality of life scores improved by 11.71. Grade 3/4 peripheral sensory neuropathy was noted (2.1%), while the most common hematologic toxicity was anemia (grade 3/4, 6.3%). Gemcitabine and oxaliplatin combination chemotherapy showed a promising activity in APC patients and was well tolerated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The nanowire growth behavior and photoluminescence characteristics of red-emitting oxide phosphor Gd2− x Eu x O3 have been investigated in the function of activator (Eu3+) concentrations (x=0.08, 0.12, 0.16, 0.20, and 0.24). Nanowires of Gd2− x Eu x O3 phosphor were prepared by the dehydration of corresponding hydroxides Gd1− x/ 2Eu x/ 2(OH)3 obtained by the hydrothermal reaction. Highly uniform nanowires of 20–30nm in diameter can grow up to several tens of micrometers in length. A number of defects on the surface of Gd1.92Eu0.08O3 nanowires, which are induced during structural transformation from hexagonal hydroxide to cubic oxide, strongly decrease the luminescence efficiency in comparison with that of the bulk phosphor. In contrast, the photoemission intensity of nanowires is significantly improved with increasing Eu3+ content (x) of Gd2− x Eu x O3 solid solution. The highest relative emission intensity of nanowires is observed when the x value is close to x=0.20. This content is much higher than the optimal concentration of Eu3+ (x=0.08–0.10) for the bulk Gd2O3:Eu powder. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aim of the study: The ethanol extract (LF) of Ligularia fischeri var. spiciformis (leaf) has been evaluated for antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in mice. Materials and Methods: Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were studied by measuring nociception induced by formalin, acetic acid and hot-plate, and inflammation induced by carrageenan, formalin, and arachidonic acid. Results: The acute treatment of mice with LF at doses of 100 and 200mg/kg, by oral administration, produced a significant antinociceptive effect in the acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin-induced pain licking and hot-plate-induced pain. Also, the LF significantly inhibited both carrageenan- and formalin-induced inflammation as well as arachidonic acid-induced ear edema in mice. Conclusions: These inhibitions were statistically significant (P<0.05). Thus, our investigation suggests a potential benefit of Ligularia fischeri in treating conditions associated with inflammatory pain. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Myricetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, was investigated to determine whether it could protect osteoblasts from 2-deoxy-d-ribose induced dysfunction and oxidative damage in the MC3T3-E1 cells. MC3T3-E1 cells were incubated with 2-deoxy-d-ribose and/or myricetin, and markers of osteoblast function and oxidative damage were examined. Compared with control incubation, 2-deoxy-d-ribose significantly (P <0.05) inhibited alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, collagen content, and calcium deposition at the concentration of 20 mM. Cellular malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl, and advanced oxidation protein products contents were significantly (P <0.05) increased in the presence of 2-deoxy-d-ribose (20 mM). Myricetin significantly (P <0.05) increased cell survival, ALP activity, collagen, osteocalcin, osteoprotegerin, and calcium deposition and decreased MDA, protein carbonyl, and advanced oxidation protein products contents of osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells in the presence of 20 mM 2-deoxy-d-ribose. These results demonstrate that myricetin attenuates 2-deoxy-d-ribose induced damage, suggesting that myricetin may be a useful dietary supplement for minimizing oxidative injury in diabetes related bone diseases. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ceruloplasmin (Cp) is the major copper transport protein in plasma and catalyzes the conversion of toxic ferrous iron to the safer ferric iron. As an acute-phase protein, Cp is induced during inflammation. It is synthesized primarily in the liver and is expressed in several other tissues, including the brain. Elevated Cp levels have been observed in the brain of patients with neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer''s, Parkinson''s, and Huntington''s diseases. However, the exact role(s) of Cp in inflammatory and neuropathological conditions remains unclear. Microglia are the prime effector cells involved in immune and inflammatory responses in the central nervous system (CNS). They are activated during pathological conditions to restore CNS homeostasis, but chronic microglial activation endangers neuronal survival. Consequently, it is important to identify the regulators of microglial activation and the underlying mechanisms. We sought to examine whether Cp might modulate microglial activation. We observed that Cp induced nitric oxide (NO) release and inducible NO synthase mRNA expression in BV2 microglial cells and rat brain microglia. Cp also increased levels of mRNAs encoding tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, cyclooxygenase-2, and NADPH oxidase. Treatment of BV2 cells and primary microglia with Cp induced phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase. Moreover, Cp induced nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation, showing a more sustained pattern than seen with bacterial lipopolysaccharide. Cp-stimulated NO induction was significantly attenuated by a p38 inhibitor, SB203580, and the NF-κB inhibitor SN50. Cp induced secretion of TNF-α and prostaglandin E2 in primary microglial cultures. These results suggest that Cp may play an important role in neuropathological conditions by stimulating various proinflammatory and neurotoxic molecules in microglia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In prospecting the role of nuclear energy in a future society, this article attempts to foresee the changes of the socio-economic environment including social attitudes, the economy and the environment, and to analyze their interactions with the exploitation of nuclear energy itself. With this perception, the so-called SWOT analysis is employed to identify the internal strengths (S) and/or weaknesses (W) of nuclear energy when compared with other energy competitors on the basis of an evaluation of the external factors which are likely to play the roles of opportunities (O) for and/or threats (T) against the technological changes in nuclear energy. Out of the external environmental factors, electrification, the regulations for the global environments and the limited availability of fossil fuels are analyzed to provide an opportunity for the nuclear energy innovation in the future. The changes of consumption behavior and the liberation of the marketplace are classified as threat factors. But urbanization, an accelerated technological development and an increased attention to the environment are expected to work either as opportunity factors or threat factors while depending on the innovations of nuclear technology. Such internal factors as the recycling ability of nuclear fuels, high energy density and little emission of greenhouse gases are counted as the strengths of nuclear power, while some weak points for its role in a future society are found both in its social situations such as the management of radioactive waste, safety and nuclear proliferation and in its structure of high capital costs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Physicochemical and biological characteristics of the exopolysaccharide, PS7, produced from Beijerinckia indica were investigated. The PS7 weight fractions of Glc and GlcUA were 0.45 and 0.25, respectively, and the molar ratio of Glc:Rha:GalUA was approximately 5:1:1.3. The PS7 was chemically derivatized with diethylaminoethyl chloride–HCl (DEAE-HCl), and the resulting modified PS7 contained both positive and negative charges. The elemental and IR analyses were conducted to confirm the successful incorporation of DEAE groups into PS7. Large increase in nitrogen fraction was observed from the derivatized PS7 by elemental analysis. The characteristic CH3 and CH2 peaks originated from DEAE group were detected in 1H NMR spectrum of the derivatized PS7 as well. Solubility of native PS7 was improved almost twice from 40 to 75% after DEAE-derivatization, while water holding capacity (WHC) drastically decreased from 10,026 to 245%. Oil binding capacity (OBC) of PS7 also significantly dropped from 1528 to 331% after the derivatization. The [η] values of native and derivatized PS7 were 27.6 and 0.31dL/g at 25°C, respectively, which means that the DEAE-derivatization significantly decreased the [η] of PS7. The bile acid binding capacity of PS7 was indirectly determined by measuring the holding capability of cholic acid inside the dialysis membrane. When PS7 was DEAE-derivatized, there was substantial decrease in the cholic acid retardation index (CRI). Up to 8–9h of dialysis, the derivatized PS7 hold 8.6% less of cholic acid compared to native one. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Senescence-accelerated mice (SAMP8) have a short life span, whereas SAMR1 mice are resistant to accelerated senescence. Previously it has been reported that the Akv strain of ecotropic murine leukemia virus (E-MuLV) was detected in brains of SAMP8 mice but not in brains of SAMR1 mice. In order to determine the change of MuLV levels following scrapie infection, we analyzed the E-MuLV titer and the RNA expression levels of E-MuLV, xenotropic MuLV, and polytropic MuLV in brains and spinal cords of scrapie-infected SAM mice. The expression levels of the 3 types of MuLV were increased in scrapie-infected mice compared to control mice; E-MuLV expression was detected in infected SAMR1 mice, but only in the terminal stage of scrapie disease. We also examined incubation periods and the levels of PrPSc in scrapie-infected SAMR1 (sR1) and SAMP8 (sP8) mice. We confirmed that the incubation period was shorter in sP8 (210±5 days) compared to sR1 (235±10 days) after intraperitoneal injection. The levels of PrPSc in sP8 were significantly greater than sR1 at 210±5 days, but levels of PrPSc at the terminal stage of scrapie in both SAM strains were virtually identical. These results show the activation of MuLV expression by scrapie infection and suggest acceleration of the progression of scrapie pathogenesis by MuLV. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Silver nanoparticles were simply prepared by spray pyrolysis of aqueous solutions of AgNO3, and dextran or Poly (vinylalcohol) (PVA) without any reducing agent. Monodisperse particles well-organized in polymer matrix were obtained above a certain critical ratio of polymer to silver nitrate, usually around 1, and below decomposition temperatures of the polymer. Otherwise, the silver particles grew polydisperse due to the imperfect confinement of the polymer. Their shapes varied from facetted with dextran to spherical with PVA, depending on the interaction of silver and the polymer. The confinement increased and thus the critical ratio decreased by increasing the molecular weight of the polymer and replacing PVA by dextran. Above the ratio, the particles got smaller with the concentration of dextran, while their size did not vary in PVA due to its configuration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]