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Background: Double crush syndrome refers to a nerve in the proximal region being compressed, affecting its proximal segment. Instances of this syndrome involving ulnar and cubital canals during ulnar neuropathy are rare. Diagnosis solely through clinical examination is challenging. Although electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) can confirm neuropathy, they do not incorporate inching tests at the wrist, hindering diagnosis confirmation. We recently encountered eight cases of suspected double compression of ulnar nerve, reporting these cases along with a literature review. Methods: The study included 5 males and 2 females, averaging 45.6 years old. Among them, 4 had trauma history, and preoperative McGowan stages varied. Ulnar neuropathy was confirmed in 7 cases at both cubital and ulnar canal locations. Surgery was performed for 4 cases, while conservative treatment continued for 3 cases. Results: In 4 cases with wrist involvement, 2 showed ulnar nerve compression by a fibrous band, and 1 had nodular hyperplasia. Another case displayed ulnar nerve swelling with muscle covering. Among the 4 surgery cases, 2 improved from preoperative McGowan stage IIB to postoperative stage 0, with significant improvement in subjective satisfaction. The remaining 2 cases improved from stage IIB to IIA, respectively, with moderate improvement in subjective satisfaction. In the 3 cases receiving conservative treatment, satisfaction was significant in 1 case and moderate in 2 cases. Overall, there was improvement in hand function across all 7 cases. Conclusion: Typical outpatient examinations make it difficult to clearly differentiate the two sites, and EMG tests may not confirm diagnosis. Therefore, if a surgeon lacks suspicion of this condition, diagnosis becomes even more challenging. In cases with less than expected postoperative improvement in clinical symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome, consideration of double crush syndrome is warranted. Additional tests and detailed EMG tests, including inching tests at the wrist, may be necessary. We aim to raise awareness double crush syndrome with ulnar nerve, reporting a total of 7 cases to support this concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Ischemic time is a key factor in satisfactory functional results after forearm replantation. In this study, we provide a detailed description of our surgical technique, the temporary screw plate fixation technique, which aims to reduce ischemic time. Methods: From June 2007 to June 2017, we performed a retrospective study of 20 patients who underwent forearm replantation. Eighteen cases involved male patients, and their mean age was 46 years. The mechanism of injury was roller injuries in 5 cases, power saw injuries in 3 cases, traffic accident in 7 cases, rope injuries in 2 cases, machinery injuries in 2 cases, and crushing injuries by rebar beam in 1 case. Results: A total of 20 replantation patients survived. According to injury level, there were 3 cases of the proximal type, 11 cases of the middle type, and 6 cases of the distal type. The average time to revascularization was 331 min. The total operation time was, on average, 5.73 h. In the rest of the 18 cases, the temporary screw plate fixation technique was performed, and the average time required for bone shortening and plate fixation was 38.3 min. Conclusions: To reduce ischemic time, we need a plan that progressively reduces time at each stage. Among our tips, temporary screw plate fixation can reduce the initial bone surgical operation to < 40 min, does not have many complications, and can be used as definitive surgery. This method for bone fixation should be considered as a strategy to actively reduce operation time during forearm replantation. Level of evidence: Retrospective study, Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Segmental fractures often result from high-energy or indirect trauma that causes bending or torsional forces with axial loading. We evaluated surgical outcomes of patients with forearm segmental diaphyseal fractures. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed data from patients with forearm segmental fractures for which they underwent surgery at the Pusan National University Trauma Center from March 2013 to March 2022. We also analyzed accompanying injuries, injury severity score (ISS), injury mechanism, occurrence of open fracture, surgical technique, and treatment results. Results: Fifteen patients were identified, one with bilateral segmental diaphyseal forearm bone fracture, for a total of 16 cases. Nine of the patients were male. The overall mean age was 50 years, and the mean follow-up period was 16.2 months. Six cases who underwent surgery using plate osteosynthesis achieved bone union without length deformity at final follow-up. Three of seven patients who underwent intramedullary nailing alone underwent reoperation due to nonunion. Six cases achieved bone union at final follow-up, three of which showed length deformity. Three patients underwent surgery using a hybrid method of IM nailing, plates, and mini cables. One patient who underwent surgery with a plate and one patient who underwent surgery with IM nailing alone showed nonunion and were lost to follow-up. Conclusion: Plate osteosynthesis is considered the gold standard for treatment of adult forearm diaphyseal segmental fractures. In this study, IM nailing was associated with high rates of non-union and length deformity. However, the combination of IM nailing and a plate-cable system may be an acceptable alternative in segmental diaphyseal forearm fracture, achieving a union rate similar to that provided by plate fixation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Even though home deaths have been reported to improve quality of life, satisfy patients and families, and reduce healthcare expenditures, not enough is known about the factors that influence home deaths in Korea. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the factors associated with home deaths among middle-aged and older adults in South Korea. Methods: This secondary data analysis used core interview and exit interview data of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging conducted between 2008 and 2018. The deceased included adults over the age of 45 years. The exit data were obtained from interviews with family members or other acquaintances known to the deceased every two years since 2008. Complex-sample logistic regression was conducted using 1,565 middle-aged and older deceased adults. Results: Among 1,565 decedents, the average age at the time of death was 80.67±10.69 in the home death group, and 78.72±9.83 in the non-home death group. The proportion of home-related deaths was 26.4%. Age over 81 years was associated with increased odds of home death, whereas having two or more living children, living in town/small city, paid medical expenses by children/grandchildren and their spouses, expected death, death from disease, and having three or more chronic diseases were associated with decreased odds of home death. An increase in activities of daily living during three months before death was associated with a decrease in home death. Conclusion: The findings could help healthcare professionals develop tailored interventions to help people die at their preferred place of death based on family characteristics and healthcare accessibility. Age, residential area, number of children and children's financial support, and illness-related factors influenced home death by creating differences in access to healthcare resources and support. Policymakers should decrease healthcare disparities and improve health resource allocation and home-based care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injectable hydrogels are promising delivery vehicles for the sustained release of therapeutic proteins. Electrostatic interactions between proteins and hydrogels often increase affinity to decelerate protein release. However, this approach is not suitable for weakly charged proteins. The current study shows that the genetic fusion of a highly charged protein segment (charge booster tag) with proteins can control their interactions with injectable gels. A positive or negative charge booster tag is introduced into urate oxidase (UOX), a therapeutic protein for gout, to generate UOX variants with varying net charges. When a positively‐charged injectable hydrogel is used, both the in vitro release rate and in vivo serum half‐life of UOX are correlated with the net negative charge. This modified delivery approach results in a serum half‐life of over 106 h for the UOX variant, which is substantially longer than that of free UOX (3.3 h). Hence, charge booster tags can be used as a systematic strategy for controlling the release of therapeutic proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Finger injuries caused by green onion cutting machines in Korean kitchens have unique characteristics of an incomplete amputation in which multiple parallel soft tissues and blood vessels are injured in the same form. In this study, we aimed to describe unique finger injuries and to report the treatment outcomes and experiences of performing possible soft tissue reconstructions. Methods: This case series study included 65 patients (82 fingers) from December 2011 to December 2015. The mean age was 50.5 years. We retrospectively classified the presence of fractures and the degree of damage in patients. The injured area involvement level was categorised as distal, middle or proximal. The direction was categorised as sagittal, coronal, oblique or transverse. The treatment results were compared according to the amputation direction and injury area. Results: Of the 65 patients, 35 had a partial finger necrosis and needed additional surgeries. Finger reconstructions were performed through stump revision or local or free flap use. The survival rate was significantly lower in patients with fractures. As for the injury area, distal involvement led to 17 out of 57 patients displaying necrosis and all 5 patients showing the same in proximal involvement. Conclusions: Unique finger injuries caused by green onion cutting machines can easily be treated with simple sutures. Then prognosis is affected by the extent of injury and the presence of fractures. Reconstruction is necessary for finger necrosis owing to extensive blood vessel damage and limitations when making this selection. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mothers-in-law in multicultural families tend to experience psychological burden. This study aimed to verify the effects of the cultural adaptation promotion resilience program (CAPRP) on resilience, acculturation stress, depression, and quality of life among mothers-in-law in multi-cultural families. Forty-two participants from multicultural family support centres in the metropolitan city A were assigned to either the intervention group or the control group. The CAPRP was performed for 60 minutes, twice a week for four weeks. The intervention group showed a significant decrease in the acculturation stress (p =.002), and depression (p =.006), while resilience (p <.001) and quality of life (p <.001) significantly increased compared to the control group. The intervention group reported significant improvements in resilience, acculturation stress, depression, and quality of life in comparison with the control group. The results indicated that the CAPRP, developed based on positive cognitive appraisal, was an efficient nursing intervention for mothers-in-law in multicultural families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ionic liquid (IL)-adsorbed catalyst changes the morphology of the catalyst layer. • IL adsorption reduces the ORR charge transfer resistance in the electrode. • IL adsorption enhances the stability under the accelerated durability test. A majority of studies focus on developing oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts and cathode configurations to enhance the performance and durability of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this study, resistance analyses of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) are conducted to elaborate on the performance and durability improvements induced by the adsorption of [MTBD][beti] ionic liquid (IL) on the commercial PtCo/C catalyst. The morphological changes caused by IL adsorption are observed on micro and macro scales via physicochemical methods. From the half-cell measurement, when the 4 wt% IL was adsorbed, a 15 mV improvement in ORR activity occurred, and as the adsorption amount increased, the activity decreased. The MEA using 8 wt% IL adsorbed catalyst outperforms 1.7 times higher current density at 0.8 V and 40 % lower charge transfer resistance. Distribution of relaxation time resistance analysis reveals that oxygen mass transfer resistance (R mass), ORR charge transfer resistance (R ORR), and proton charge transfer resistance (R proton) decrease due to IL adsorption. During accelerated durability tests, IL 8 % MEA showed a 58 % increase in durability, and a lower degradation of R ORR and R proton encouraged improved durability. The resistance analyses in this study contribute to identifying the factors responsible for the performance and durability enhancement of PEMFC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to evaluate and compare the outcomes after pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) with a mechanical prosthesis (MP) and a bioprosthesis (BP). METHODS From 2004 through 2017, a total of 131 patients, who had already been repaired for tetralogy or Fallot or its variants, underwent their first PVR with an MP or a BP. Outcomes of interests were prosthesis failure (stenosis >3.5 m/s, regurgitation >mild or infective endocarditis) and reintervention. RESULTS The median age at PVR was 19 years. BP and MP were used in 88 (67.2%) and 43 (32.8%) patients, respectively. The median follow-up duration was 7.4 years, and the 10-year survival rate was 96.4%. Risk factors for prosthesis failure were smaller body surface area [hazard ratio (HR) 0.23 per 1 m2, P  =   0.047] and smaller prosthesis size (HR 0.73 per 1 mm, P  =   0.039). Risk factors for prosthesis reintervention were smaller body surface area (HR 0.11 per 1 m2, P  =   0.011) and prosthesis size (HR 0.67 per 1 mm, P  =   0.044). Probability of prosthesis failure and reintervention at 10 years were 24.6% (19.5% in BP vs 34.8% in MP, P  =   0.34) and 7.8% (5.6% in BP vs 11.9% in MP, P  =   0.079), respectively. Anticoagulation-related major thromboembolic events were observed in 4 patients receiving an MP. CONCLUSIONS MP might not be superior to BP in terms of prosthesis failure or reintervention. MP should be carefully considered for highly selected patients in the era of transcatheter PVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the associations among variables related to the sociocultural context (including social support, parenting stress, and parents' perceived severity of their child's condition), the ease or difficulty of family management, and psychosocial outcomes of children with chronic conditions. This cross-sectional study analyzed a convenience sample of 277 parents of children with chronic diseases who had been receiving follow-up care for at least 6 months at a university hospital located in a metropolitan area. Family members answered a questionnaire on demographics, illness characteristics, perceived severity of the child's chronic condition, social support, the Parenting Stress Index, the Pediatric Symptom Checklist, and the Korean version of the Family Management Measure (FaMM). The six scales of the FaMM were divided into two domains, corresponding to ease and difficulty of family management, respectively. PASW version 18.0 and AMOS version 22.0 with bootstrapping analysis were used. Social support, parenting stress, and perceived disease severity significantly affected both ease and difficulty of family management. Sufficient social support, low parenting stress, and a less severe chronic condition of the child were associated with ease of family management. Both ease and difficulty of family management explained 73.9% of the variance in children's psychosocial problems and showed significant direct effects. Care plans for chronically ill children and their families should be designed to promote positive aspects of family management by decreasing parenting stress and enhancing social support, thereby making family management easier and reducing the risk of psychosocial problems in children with chronic conditions. Highlights: Ease of family management was associated with high social support, less stressful parenting, and a less severe condition of the child. Difficulty of family management was associated with low social support, high parenting stress, and a severe condition of the child. Ease of family management had a positive impact on children's psychosocial health. Both family management scales explained 73.9% of psychosocial problems in children with chronic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flushing and erythema are the most common symptoms of rosacea; however, management of these symptoms remains challenging. Recent case studies suggest that treatment with carvedilol may reduce facial flushing and persistent erythema in the pathogenesis of rosacea. To find the effect of carvedilol in the treatment of facial flushing and erythema in rosacea. Twenty‐four rosacea patients treated with carvedilol for facial flushing and erythema were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were prescribed carvedilol 6.25 mg either once or twice per day, and the daily dose was gradually titrated up to 12.5 mg. Clinical erythema severity was assessed by the Clinician's Erythema Assessment (CEA) and Patient's Self‐Assessment (PSA) scales. Improvement of CEA and PSA scores compared to the baseline were assessed. The proportion of patients with improvement of two or more points from baseline in CEA score was analyzed by sex, previous treatment exposure, disease duration, and subtypes. The mean change of −1.6 in the CEA score and of −1.8 in the PSA score showed significant improvement from baseline. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) patients achieved more than 2‐points improvement in the CEA score, compared with non‐ETR patients (53.8% vs 16.7% [P =.035]). No statistically significant differences were observed by sex, disease duration, or previous treatment exposure. No serious adverse event was observed. Carvedilol can be an effective and safe treatment option for rosacea patients suffering from facial flushing and erythema. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active power decoupling circuits have emerged to eliminate the inherent ripple power at twice the grid frequency in single-phase power electronics systems. However, this requires additional passive components and power switches, which increases the cost and volume of the system. This paper proposes a circuit configuration in an electric vehicle system to build power decoupling circuits that employ a reduced number of extra components. In this proposed circuit configuration, three inductors and six switching devices from the motor and the inverter circuit are used to build active power decoupling circuits during battery charging time. In addition, this paper proposes a robust voltage control method with a virtual d–q current controller and the interleaved pulse width modulation technique. The proposed system and its control method can improve control performance and achieve low-cost battery chargers with a high power density. MATLAB–Simulink simulations and experimental verifications based on hardware-in-the-loop-simulations and rapid-control-prototyping systems are performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed system and control algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Increased c-Fos expression in the lateral habenula after unpaired training. • More c-Fos–positive signals in the LHb-projecting dopaminergic midbrain of unpaired rats compared with paired rats. • LHb-lesioned animals exhibit normal performances in the paired and unpaired training. Neurons in the lateral habenula (LHb) are activated by reward omission and inhibited by reward delivery-reward processing functions opposite those of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. To further explore this, we examined the role of the LHb in associating a conditioned stimulus (CS) with the absence of an unconditioned stimulus (US) in an appetitive Pavlovian-conditioning paradigm. Rats underwent training in which a CS (light) was either paired (100% CS–US contingency) or unpaired (0% CS–US contiguity and negative contingency) with an US (food). Rats in the paired group exhibited steady acquisition of conditioned food-cup behaviors, while rats in the unpaired group showed low levels of response throughout training. After training, c-Fos levels were measured in the LHb, substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc), and ventral tegmental area (VTA) of rats in all groups. c-Fos levels were higher in the SNc/VTA of the paired group and the LHb of the unpaired group compared with the group with graded excitatory conditioning due to 50% of the CSs paired with USs and a low rate of USs presented during the intertrial interval and control groups for non-associative factors. The number of c-Fos–positive signals in LHb neurons projecting to dopaminergic midbrain neurons was higher in the unpaired group than in the paired group. Excitotoxic LHb lesions did not affect the acquisition of conditioned behaviors in the association of a CS with the presence or absence of an US. Significant increases in the numbers of c-Fos–positive neurons in the unpaired group suggest that LHb neurons engage in the process that associates a CS with the absence of an US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Scabies is a common contagious skin disease. With the economic growth in South Korea, the incidence of scabies has decreased. However, with the recent advancements in medical facilities, mainly the establishment of long-term care hospitals (LTCHs), scabies is now considered an emerging public health problem. Methodology/Principal findings: To examine the prevalence and management of scabies in LTCHs in South Korea, we contacted all 1,336 LTCHs registered at the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service in South Korea in 2018. A total of 110 LTCHs completed a questionnaire, and we analyzed their responses. In the last 5 years, 71.8% (79/110) of LTCHs had a high incidence of scabies (suspected/confirmed cases). Usually, patients aged older than 80 years (45.5%) were diagnosed with the disease, with more women being affected than men. Only 30.0% of the patients were transferred to scabies-restricted rooms, and very few LTCHs (7.0%) had special departments for scabies. Fifty-five (61.1%) of 90 LTCHs reported contact between scabies patients and nurses, nurse aides, caregivers, and other employees (hereinafter, referred to as primary exposure), with 29 (32.2%) LTCHs reporting infections due to primary exposure. The most common challenges in managing scabies were patient isolation (47.8%), diagnosis (31.1%), management of individuals exposed to an individual with scabies (17.8%), lack of staff for managing the patients (16.7%), and treatment (11.1%). Conclusions: The incidence rate of scabies in LTCHs in South Korea has increased. Regular and enhanced staff training is needed, considering that most hospitals rarely focused on the handling of equipment and furniture used by scabies patients and on educating their healthcare staff. These findings can be used to develop various strategies to reduce the prevalence of scabies. Author summary: This study aimed to present a plan for scabies control by investigating the current status of scabies and management in long-term care hospitals (LTCHs) and by identifying the general characteristics of nursing staff managing scabies patients at nursing homes. To determine the incidence of scabies in LTCHs, we contacted all the 1,336 LTCHs registered at the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service in South Korea in 2018. Among them, 256 LTCHs agreed to participate in the present study, but only 110 LTCHs completed the survey questionnaire. Studies have shown that scabies is common in LTCHs, and secondary bacterial infection is also common in patients with scabies. Moreover, the incidence rate of scabies has increased in the last 5 years even in LTCHs with highly educated healthcare staff, manuals on the prevention and management of scabies, and infection reporting systems. Regular and enhanced staff training is needed, considering that most hospitals have rarely focused on the handling of equipment and furniture used by scabies patients and on educating their healthcare staff. These findings can be used to develop various strategies to reduce the prevalence of scabies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of high-temperature polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (HT-PEMFCs), many types of resistance existed, but they have not been distinctly characterized in previous research. In this study, the distribution of relaxation times (DRT) methodology is employed, in conjunction with a home-built electrochemical electrode analysis system (EEAS), to figure out the specific resistance components in the cathode gas diffusion electrode (GDE). The impedance analysis by the DRT method was conducted using the electrochemical impedance spectrum obtained at different temperatures and current densities of the cathode only, isolated from the MEA environment. The four peaks (designated as Peak 0 to 3) were depicted at DRT plots of cathode GDE below 103 Hz. By comparing the DRT plots for different conditions and considering the EEAS structure, the four peaks were explained to be caused by distinct resistances occurring at the electrode and interface. The regions of each peak were distinguished according to their position changes with temperature and current density. Furthermore, by contrasting the DRT plots of the cathode GDE with those of MEA containing the same cathode, an additional peak (referred to as Peak 4) is identified between 103 Hz and 104 Hz, which was attributed to resistance originating from the anode. This study could provide a new approach for future research of new catalysts and electrodes utilizing the resistance analysis of MEA for HT-PEMFC. [Display omitted] • The EEAS was utilized to perform electrochemical analysis of the GDE. • DRT method separates resistances as peaks in the cathode GDE of HT-PEMFCs. • Each peak from the DRT plot is assigned according to the origin of resistance. • Comparative study with MEA differentiates the resistance from electrodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of health care services is influenced by various factors, including demographic, social, economic, and health status factors. This study aimed to identify the factors that influence health care use in health insurance subscribers and medical aid beneficiaries in Korea.Methods: A total of 11,793 subjects were identified, including 10,838 health insurance subscribers and 955 medical aid beneficiaries, using the Korea Welfare Panel Study database. The data were analysed by percentage, t-test, and multiple regression using SPSS 20.0.Results: Medical aid beneficiaries had 13.51 more days of outpatient visits and 8.38 more days of hospitalization compared with health insurance subscribers. Factors affecting the frequency of outpatient visits for health insurance subscribers were gender, age, household type, education level, income level, administrative district, perceived health status, chronic disease, and disability. These factors accounted for 19.8% of explanation (p < .001). Whereas, gender, household type, administrative district, perceived health status, and chronic disease were identified as factors influencing outpatient frequency for medical aid beneficiaries. These factors accounted for 11.2% of explanation (p < .001). For health insurance subscribers, factors affecting the length of hospitalization were gender, public pension status, place of residence, administrative district, economic activity, income level, perceived health status, and disability status. These factors accounted for 7.2% of explanation (p < .001). While, factors affecting the length of hospitalization for medical aid beneficiaries were accounted for by 3.4% (p < .001). Gender and perceived health status were identified as factors influencing the length of hospitalization of medical aid beneficiaries.Conclusions: There were differences between medical aid beneficiaries and health insurance subscribers in health care use and influencing factors. Future management programs should take into consideration the specific factors that influence the use of health care services in health insurance subscribers and medical aid beneficiaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(−)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is the most abundant bitter polyphenol in green tea (Camellia sinensis) leaves, is generally unstable under oxidative conditions. In this study, the efficient dimerization of EGCG was successfully achieved without changes in stereochemistry by treatment with nonthermal dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma. The stereochemically pure dimers 2 and 3 connected by a methylene linkage exhibited significantly enhanced melanogenesis inhibitory activities compared to the parent EGCG and the active compounds 2 and 3 suppressed cellular tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein (TRP)-1, and TRP-2 expression in B16F10 melanoma cells, which could be considered one of the mechanisms of action. These results indicate a new method for efficient dimerization of stereochemically active depigment agent induced by DBD plasma treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keloids are fibroproliferative skin disorders characterized by the progressive deposition of collagen. Recently, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been used to treat pathologic scars. Herein, we conducted a study to compare the efficacy of intralesional injections (ILIs) of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) used alone, or in combination with ESWT for keloids. Forty patients were randomized equally into two groups in this 12‐week comparative clinical trial. Group A was treated with TA ILIs and ESWT, and group B was treated with TA ILIs alone. At week 12, both groups showed acceptable improvements in nearly all dimensions evaluated, and these improvements were statistically more significant in group A. Group A showed a higher mean percentage reduction in lesion length, width, and height and in the Vancouver Scar Scale score than group B (all P <.05). More patients in group A than in group B had scores of ≥4, which indicated improvements that were good or excellent, on the patient global assessment and investigator global assessment. No serious adverse events occurred. This study suggests that ESWT could be a new, effective and acceptable adjuvant treatment option for keloids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dishevelled-associated antagonist of beta-catenin 2 (Dact2) is involved in the regulation of intracellular signaling pathways during development. It negatively regulates the Nodal signaling pathway, possibly by promoting lysosomal degradation of Nodal receptors such as TGFBR1, and plays an inhibitory role during the re-epithelialization of skin wounds by attenuating transforming growth factor-β signaling. Dact 2 is known to act as a functional tumor suppressor in colon cancer; reduced Dact2 can promote liver cancer progression and suppress gastric cancer proliferation, invasion, and metastasis by inhibiting Wnt signaling. Zebrafish is used as a model of cancer biology because it shows similar tumorigenesis and morphogenesis as in humans and gene manipulation in this organism is possible. This study was performed to explore phenotypic changes in Dact2 knockout zebrafish and investigate the function of Dact2. A 10-base pair deletion Dact2 knockout zebrafish was prepared using the CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system. Dact2 knockout enhanced the expression of the MMP2 and MMP9 genes, which are related to tumor invasion and migration, and the Snail , VEGF , and ZEB genes, which are related to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The absence of Dact2 also resulted in hyperplasia of the gastrointestinal epithelium, fibrosis in the pancreas and liver, increased proliferation of the pancreatic and hepatic bile ducts, and invasive proliferation into the pancreas. A wound healing assay confirmed that the absence of Dact2 enhanced EMT, thus accelerating wound healing. This study suggests that a loss of function of Dact2 impacts EMT-related gene regulation and tumor generation in a zebrafish knockout model, which is a useful model for exploring the mechanisms of these processes. • This is the first reported Dact2 knockout zebrafish model via CRISPR/Cas9. • Dact2 gene plays an important role in normal formation of the digestive system. • Dact2 deficiency increases re-epithelialization of a wound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucose-containing peritoneal dialysis (PD) solution causes peritoneal fibrosis (PF) characterized by accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) in the submesothelial layer. Cathepsin B is a lysosomal cysteine protease that degrades ECM, but its role in the PF remains unclear. Thus, we investigated the role of cathepsin B in PF. Procathepsin B was measured in the 73 PD effluents of 68 patients. Procathepsin B and cathepsin B after exposure of glucose and the effects of cathepsin B on the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) were measured in the supernatant of cultured human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs). The effect of cathepsin B and its inhibitor, cystatin C, on PF was investigated in the murine model. Procathepsin B was measured at 3.6 μg/L in serum and 5.4 μg/L in PD effluent and positively correlated to the cancer antigen (CA) 125. The treatment with 4.25% glucose increased procathepsin B by 3.1-fold and cathepsin B by 5.9-fold in the HPMCs. Cathepsin B induced the secretion of MMP-1, -2, and -3 and TIMP-1 in the HPMCs, but uPA was not excreted. In the PF murine models, cathepsin B reduced the thickness of the submesothelial layer and cystatin C attenuated the effect of cathepsin B. HPMCs secrete cathepsin B with exposure of PD solution, and cathepsin B might help protect against PF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tonicity‐responsive enhancer binding protein (TonEBP) is a widely expressed transcription factor and is important in the regulation of inflammatory cytokines. Here, we have identified TonEBP expression in the hypothalamus, which is particularly high in proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons. TonEBP overexpression stimulates POMC transcription, and TonEBP haploinsufficiency in TonEBP (+/−) mice results in a decrease in hypothalamic POMC expression. TonEBP (+/−) mice show reduced sickness responses, which include anorexia and hyperthermia, that are initially induced by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α. TonEBP (+/−) mice also show lower levels of TNF‐α‐induced hypothalamic expression of POMC and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. These results suggest that TonEBP is an important molecular regulator in the development of inflammatory sickness responses through the control of POMC and pro‐inflammatory cytokine expression in the hypothalamus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• New NIR-dyes were designed based on the champion SM315 dye. • 4-(Cyanomethyl)benzoic acid is a promising acceptor group for NIR porphyrin dyes. • The semi-rigid tPa donor brought notable red-shift and increased molar absorptivity. • The designed dyes exhibit excellent CT character and LHE, and high J sc max and V oc. New porphyrin-based dyes were designed by modifying the acceptor and donor groups of the champion SM315 dye. The modified acceptor units of the new dyes rendered stronger electron withdrawing ability which resulted in better charge transfer and light harvesting properties with reference to SM315. The acceptor design of K-04 dye, composed of benzothiadiazole and 4-(cyanomethyl)benzoic acid, is the most successful in improving the charge transfer property, evidenced by the highest amount of transferred charge (q CT), charge transfer distance (D CT), and variation of dipole moment (μ CT), and the most bathochromically shifted broad Q-band with enhanced molar extinction coefficient. For quantitative estimation of the light harvesting ability of the dyes, the LHE curve and J sc max were calculated revealing that K-04 dye is the best light harvester among the dyes with varied acceptor unit. Moreover, the highest dipole moment of the dye-TiO 2 complex (μ d y e - T i O 2 ) and largest spatial separation distance (r) between the TiO 2 surface and hole centroid of K-04 dye estimates its highest V oc within the group. With respect to K-04 , changing the donor group to 9,9-dimethyl-10-phenyl-9,10-dihydroacridine, a semi-rigid triphenylamine (tPA) donor named as D1, resulted in a significant bathochromic shift of the Q-band with a remarkably high molar extinction coefficient. Among the derivatives of D1, the D4 donor group functionalized with diphenylamine enforced the push-pull character resulting in the most favorable CT properties and LHE of K-44 dye. These properties, along with the highest J sc max, and largest μ d y e - T i O 2 and r , made K-44 dye the most promising candidate in this series. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transtibial (TT) or tibial inlay (TI) techniques are commonly used for posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (PCLR). However, the optimum method for PCLR after PCL injury remains debatable. Hypothesis/Purpose: The hypothesis was that TT and TI techniques would not show significant differences for all outcome measures. The purpose was to determine the biomechanical and clinical outcomes of TT and TI surgical techniques for PCLR. Study Design: Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, and SCOPUS electronic databases for articles published up until August 2016 were searched to find relevant articles comparing outcomes of TT versus TI techniques for PCLR. Data searching, extraction, analysis, and quality assessment were performed according to Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. Biomechanical outcomes and clinical outcomes of both techniques were compared. Results are presented as risk ratio (RR) for binary outcomes and weighted mean difference (WMD) for continuous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: Five biomechanical and 5 clinical studies were included. No significant biomechanical differences were found regarding posterior tibial translation (PTT) at a knee flexion angle of 90° or PTT after cyclic loading between the 2 groups. However, a stronger in situ force in the graft was detected in the TT group (WMD = 15.58; 95% CI, 0.22-30.95; I2 = 10%). Although no significant differences were found in clinical outcomes such as Lysholm knee function score, Tegner activity score, side-to-side difference, or posterior drawer test at final follow-up between the 2 groups, the TT technique tended to entail fewer perioperative complications than the TI technique (RR = 0.60; 95% CI, 0.35-1.00; I2 = 0%). Conclusion: TT and TI techniques for PCLR can both restore normal knee kinematics and improve knee function. However, the issue of which yields better improvement in stability and functional recovery of the knee remains unclear. More high-quality trials and randomized controlled trials are needed. Although PCLR via the TT technique resulted in higher graft forces, determining whether this is clinically significant will require further studies. When performing the TI technique, surgeons should inform patients of the risk of complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eurotiales is a relatively large order of Ascomycetes, well-known for their ability to produce secondary metabolites with potential beneficial applications. To understand their diversity and distribution, different environmental sources including soil, freshwater, insect, and indoor air were investigated. Eight strains of Eurotiales were isolated and identified based on their morphological characters and a multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of the ITS, BenA, CaM, and RPB2 regions. We identified eight taxa that were previously not reported from Korea: Aspergillus baeticus, A. griseoaurantiacus, A. spinulosporus, Penicillium anthracinoglaciei, P. labradorum, P. nalgiovense, Talaromyces atroroseus, and T. georgiensis. Detailed descriptions, illustrations, and phylogenetic tree for the eight new records species are presented, and information regarding the records is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aims: To identify the variables that affect family management of childhood atopic dermatitis and establish a prediction model based on Bandura's self‐efficacy theory. Background: Atopic dermatitis is a chronic recurrent skin disease and common health problem in childhood. It is necessary to use an approach that includes parental factors when considering the effective management of childhood atopic dermatitis. Design: A cross‐sectional study design. Methods: A convenience sample, comprising 168 Korean mothers caring for a child with atopic dermatitis under the age of 13, was recruited from the paediatric outpatient departments of two general hospitals in Seoul, South Korea. Data were collected using structured self‐reported questionnaires including severity, antecedents, effort, self‐efficacy and family management of childhood atopic dermatitis from 1 November 2015–28 February 2016. Descriptive statistics about the participants and variables were examined and data were analysed using structural equation modelling. Results: The hypothetical model had an adequate fit to the data, indicating that severity, antecedents, effort and self‐efficacy influenced family management of childhood atopic dermatitis. Conclusion: These results suggest that strategies to support children with atopic dermatitis and their family should consider the influence of such variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preferred treatment for patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, not all patients improve or maintain heart function following primary PCI, and certain patients may experience decreased heart function. The present study investigated factors associated with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, and improvement or deterioration of LV ejection fraction (LVEF) at follow-up echocardiography following successful primary PCI. The clinical outcomes following primary PCI were also investigated. The present study assessed 4,044 patients who underwent primary PCI following a diagnosis of STEMI between January 2008 and March 2012. A total of 1,736 patients who underwent echocardiography between 30 days and 1 year after STEMI and PCI, and who had completed clinical follow-up, were included in the present study. A total of 243 patients (14.0%) demonstrated LV dysfunction at follow-up echocardiography. Multivariate analysis revealed that LV dysfunction (≤40%) at index STEMI, LVEF at index admission, renal insufficiency (creatinine ≥1.4 mg/dl), peak creatine kinase (CK) and peak CK MB isoenzyme (CKMB) were independent predictors of LV dysfunction at follow-up. Independent predictors for the deterioration of LVEF at follow-up were dyslipidemia, LVEF at index admission, LVEF ≤40% at index admission, peak CK and peak troponin-I. Furthermore, being male, having no history of coronary artery disease, pre-thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow, LVEF at index admission, LVEF ≤40% at index admission, peak CKMB and peak troponin I were independent predictors of LVEF improvement at follow-up. One-year major adverse cardiac events were significantly increased in the LV dysfunction group compared with patients who did not exhibit LV dysfunction according to Cox regression analysis (13.6 vs. 20.4%; P=0.017). Therefore, the present study may provide valuable prognostic information for clinicians to advise patients who experience LV dysfunction despite having undergone successful primary PCI. Additional management is required in patients with these high-risk features following STEMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Septic arthritis presents with good joint function, but sometimes leads to poor outcomes. Concurrent systemic sepsis has been regarded as the poor outcome, and the exact cause remains unclear. This paper was performed to identify factors associated with concurrent systemic sepsis and to research results to predict poor outcomes in patients with septic arthritis.Methods: Laboratory and medical data were reviewed for 137 adults with acute septic arthritis who underwent open or arthroscopic surgical debridement at our institution between January 2005 and December 2014. The patients were divided according to whether they had septic arthritis alone (Group A) or in combination with systemic sepsis (Group B). Systemic sepsis was defined as two more systemic inflammatory signs in response to an infectious process. Patient characteristics, laboratory findings, synovial fluid findings and cultures, and surgical results were compared between two groups.Results: Of the 137 patients, 41 (29.9%) had initial systemic sepsis at the diagnosis of septic arthritis. Independent t test revealed that duration of prodromal symptom (p = 0.012), serum neutrophil percent (p = 0.008), C-reactive protein (p = 0.001), Charlson comorbidity index (p = 0.001), positive culture in synovial fluid (p = 0.001), and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) isolate in synovial fluid (p = 0.001) had significant correlations with the group B. Repeated debridement was performed for those who had recurrence of infection, and this procedure was more often in group B (23 versus 21 joints, 23.9 versus 51.2%, p = 0.012). Progression of arthritis occurred more often in group B (16 versus 17 joints, 16.7 versus 41.5%, p = 0.001).Conclusion: Septic arthritis combined with systemic sepsis was related to duration of prodromal symptom, serum neutrophil percent, C-reactive protein, Charlson comorbidity index, positive culture in synovial fluid, and a MSSA isolate in synovial fluid. Concurrent systemic sepsis led to poor outcomes in patients with septic arthritis in terms of recurrence of infection and progression of arthritis.Level Of Evidence: III Case control study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A nonisolated single-stage on-board charger for electric vehicles has been proposed to increase system efficiency and power density in previous works. However, its ability to achieve high efficiency is limited by variations in the electric utility and battery, especially during the step-down operation. This paper proposes an advanced control algorithm that improves system efficiency in the step-down mode by controlling each switch asymmetrically using a phase-shift control. The proposed algorithm consists of only one controller, which prevents transient states from causing variations in the controller. The algorithm decreases the magnitude and ripple of the inductor current, which improves the charging efficiency by approximately 4.1% over at the 3.7-kW full load that of the conventional algorithm in the step-down mode, and measured total harmonic distortion and power factor are 3.2% and 0.995, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: charge booster tags; injectable gels; serum half-life; therapeutic proteins EN charge booster tags injectable gels serum half-life therapeutic proteins 1 1 1 03/15/23 20230309 NES 230309 B Charge Booster Tags b In article number 2209874, Jaeyun Kim, Inchan Kwon, and co-workers show cars with a booster that deliver the loaded drugs to the goal (blood vessel). Charge booster tags, injectable gels, serum half-life, therapeutic proteins Charge Booster Tags for Controlled Release of Therapeutics from a Therapeutic Carrier (Adv. Funct. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Visitation restrictions due to COVID‐19 kept parents from being with their children who were hospitalized in the PICU and from meeting with professional staff. Aim: This study examined the moderating effect of COVID‐19‐induced visitation restrictions on the relationship between stress and post‐traumatic stress disorder in parents of children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit. Study Design: We conducted a descriptive, exploratory study involving 93 parents of children hospitalized in the paediatric intensive care unit using the Korean version of the Parental Stressor Scale: Paediatric Intensive Care Unit and the Revised Impact of Events Scale. Descriptive, Pearson's correlation, and logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the data. Self‐reported survey questionnaires were provided for parents to complete in a separate area of the outpatient clinic when they visited for follow‐up care after their children were discharged from the paediatric intensive care unit. Results: Mothers showed significantly higher post‐traumatic stress disorder scores than fathers. The relationship between all the sub‐domains of perceived stress and post‐traumatic stress disorder was statistically significant. Visitation restrictions because of the COVID‐19 pandemic had significant moderating effects on the relationship between perceived parental stress and post‐traumatic stress disorder. Moreover, the moderating effects of COVID‐19 were exhibited when the two sub‐domains—hyperarousal and intrusion—were investigated. Conclusions: Paediatric intensive care unit visitation may be an important intervention for parental post‐traumatic stress disorder. Parental visitation should be enabled, and alternative interventions should be developed in situations where visitation is prohibited. Relevance to Clinical Practice: It is necessary to develop and apply various and effective alternatives visitation that can prepare hospitals for visiting restrictions during pandemic situations which could emerge in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TTF-1 stimulates appetite by regulating the expression of agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) genes in the hypothalamus of starving animals. However, the mechanism underlying TTF-1's response to decreased energy levels remains elusive. Here, we provide evidence that the NAD+-dependent deacetylase, sirtuin1 (Sirt1), activates TTF-1 in response to energy deficiency. Energy deficiency leads to a twofold increase in the expression of both Sirt1 and TTF-1, leading to the deacetylation of TTF-1 through the interaction between the two proteins. The activation of Sirt1, induced by energy deficiency or resveratrol treatment, leads to a significant increase in the deacetylation of TTF-1 and promotes its nuclear translocation. Conversely, the inhibition of Sirt1 prevents these Sirt1 effects. Notably, a point mutation in a lysine residue of TTF-1 significantly disrupts its deacetylation and thus nearly completely hinders its ability to regulate AgRP and POMC gene expression. These findings highlight the importance of energy-deficiency-induced deacetylation of TTF-1 in the control of AgRP and POMC gene expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In obese patients, free fatty acids ectopically accumulated in non-adipose tissues cause cell death. Saturated fatty acids are more deleterious to non-adipose cells, and supplementation with monounsaturated fatty acids has been proposed to rescue cells from saturated fatty acid-induced cytotoxicity; however, the mechanisms are not well understood. To understand the cytoprotective role of monounsaturated fatty acids in lipotoxic cell death of macrophages, we investigated the antagonizing effect of oleate and the underlying mechanisms in palmitate-treated RAW264.7 cells. Palmitate strongly induced apoptosis in macrophages by increasing CD36 expression, which was identified to mediate both endoplasmic reticulum stress and the generation of reactive oxygen species. Co-treatment with oleate significantly reduced CD36 expression and its downstream signaling pathways of apoptosis in palmitate-treated cells. These findings provide a novel mechanism by which oleate protects macrophages from palmitate-induced lipotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: While a conventional single- or double-row repair technique could be applied for repair of C-shaped tears, a different surgical strategy should be considered for repair of U- or L-shaped tears because they typically have complex patterns with anterior, posterior, or both mobile leaves. This study was performed to examine the outcomes of the modified Mason-Allen technique for footprint restoration in the treatment of large U- or L-shaped rotator cuff tears.Methods: Thirty-two patients who underwent an arthroscopic modified Mason-Allen technique for large U- or L-shaped rotator cuff tears between January 2012 and December 2013 were included in this study. Margin convergence was first performed to reduce the tear gap and tension, and then, an arthroscopic Mason-Allen technique was performed to restore the rotator cuff footprint in a side-to-end repair fashion. All patients were evaluated preoperatively and for a minimum of 2 years of follow-up with a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Constant score, and ultrasonography.Results: There was significant improvement in all VAS and Constant scores compared with the preoperative values (P < 0.001). Functional results by Constant scores included 9 cases that were classified as excellent, 11 cases as good, 8 cases as fair, and 2 cases as poor. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that heavy work, pseudoparalysis, joint space narrowing, fatty degeneration of the SST and IST, and a positive tangent sign were found to significantly correlate with functional outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that only fatty degeneration of the SST was a risk factor for fair/poor clinical outcomes. Complications occurred in 5 of the 32 patients (15.6 %), and the reoperation rate due to complications was 6.3 % (2 of 32 patients).Conclusions: An arthroscopic modified Mason-Allen technique was sufficient to restore the footprint of the rotator cuff in our data. Overall satisfactory results were achieved in most patients, with the exception of those with severe fatty degeneration. An arthroscopic modified Mason-Allen technique could be an effective and reliable alternative for patients with large U- or L-shaped rotator cuff tears.Level Of Evidence: Case Series, Therapeutic Level IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Power conversion systems for electric vehicles (EVs) have been researched to improve power density and efficiency at low cost. To satisfy these needs for EVs, this paper proposes a novel battery charging system that integrates a nonisolated on-board charger (OBC) and low-voltage dc–dc converters (LDCs) by sharing the semiconductor devices and mechanical elements. Thus, the volume of LDCs is reduced dramatically compared with a conventional nonintegrated charging system. The proposed integrated system is configured based on a driving condition that is derived from the analysis of vehicle operating modes. In order to improve system's performance, an asynchronous control algorithm is applied to control the OBC optimally. In the LDC system, two LLC resonant converters are composed by sharing a transformer and secondary-side components. To increase the efficiency of each LDC, which is operated in the wide input and output voltage range, a duty and frequency control algorithm is proposed. The theoretical analysis, operating strategy, and experimental results on a 6.6-kW OBC and 1.9-kW LDC are presented to evaluate the performance of the proposed system; the total volume of LDCs is 1.87 L, and peak efficiencies of OBC and LDC are 97.3% and 93.13%, respectively. Moreover, a comparative analysis is presented to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kim, D.H.; Park, K.C.; Kim, I.; Lee, J.L., and Lee, J., 2017. Calculation of rip current warning index by a vector rose diagram. In: Lee, J.L.; Griffiths, T.; Lotan, A.; Suh, K.-S., and Lee, J. (eds.), The 2nd International Water Safety Symposium. Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 79, pp. 109-113. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. Rip currents, which are sea tides that can carry swimmers into deep water beyond the breaking points, pose an immense security risk to beachgoers around the world. In Korea, rip current forecasting is divided into four warning levels: notice, watch, warning, and danger. However, the numerical results are represented by current vectors, and an additional process is necessary for converting these vectors into a predictive model. The primary goal of this study is to present a method that illustrates how to convert numerically simulated vectors into a rose diagram and how to divide this diagram into four warning levels for rip currents. The proposed method was validated by analyzing the correlation between warning indexes calculated from the present approach and those obtained from the NERiPs. The study was conducted at Haeundae Beach located in Busan, Korea. Different from the NERiPs, which is simply used to forecast the warning levels by the incident-wave conditions, this wave-induced currents model considers morphological effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrolyte-gated transistors (EGTs) are promising candidates for artificial synaptic devices, due to lower energy consumption by forming the electric double layer to modulate the channel conductance. In this work, we propose a three-terminal artificial synapse transistor employing HfO 2 electrolyte-gate insulator (EGI). The inorganic HfO 2 thin film with high dielectric constant was chosen as a good candidate of an EGI to improve the operational stability and energy consumption for the synapse transistor. Mobile hydrogen ions incorporated in the HfO 2 EGI were revealed to be generated during the ALD process at a temperature as low as 100 °C. The synaptic plasticity of the fabricated synapse transistor could be gradually modulated by the movement of mobile ions in the EGI, which were examined to be dependent on the applied pulse conditions. The fabricated synapse transistor emulated biological synaptic functions, including excitatory/inhibitory post-synaptic current (EPSC/IPSC) and paired-pulse facilitation/depression (PPF/PPD). Furthermore, by controlling the pulse spike conditions, the conversion from short-term plasticity (STP) to long-term plasticity (LTP) was successfully verified. The LTP characteristics were demonstrated to be far enhanced with the EGI film thickness by means of magnifying the amounts of incorporated mobile ions. In addition, the long-term reliability and operational repeatability of the fabricated synapse transistor were well verified thanks to the choice of HfO 2 EGI. The energy consumption required for single spike event was estimated to be a value as low as 0.26 pJ, thus demonstrating considerable potential as an artificial synapse device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A loss reduction algorithm at light loads is needed to increase the overall efficiency of noninverting synchronous buck–boost dc–dc converters. Inductor current ripple generates most of the total loss at light loads. Thus, a ripple current reduction algorithm is an effective method of increasing light-load efficiency. This letter proposes a control algorithm for increasing the light-load efficiency by controlling the inductor current ripple. To achieve the optimal control of the inductor current, a maximum efficiency tracking scheme is implemented. Experimental results verify that the proposed algorithm significantly improves the light-load efficiency; at a 10% load condition, the efficiency is approximately 3.19% higher than that of the conventional algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lee, J.; Kim, D.H.; Lee, S., and Lee, J.L., 2016. Lagrangian Observation of Rip Currents at Haeundae Beach Using an Optimal Buoy Type GPS Drifter. In: Vila-Concejo, A.; Bruce, E.; Kennedy, D.M., and McCarroll, R.J. (eds.), Proceedings of the 14th International Coastal Symposium (Sydney, Australia). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue, No. 75, pp. 1177 - 1181. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. In this study, we designed a new buoy type GPS drifter that is capable of measuring the rip current pattern in the surface layer particularly at Haeundae Beach, Korea. Our field test performance in August 2012 was successful using this new GPS drifter. Our GPS-tracked surf zone drifter can not only be easily affected by physical forces below the surface on the equipment's movement, but also unaffected by breaking waters. In this study, the design for a small, low-cost buoy type GPS drifter for collecting accurate Lagrangian data in the coastal zone is described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of rats with chronic bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAo), an animal model for vascular dementia (VaD), have reported hippocampus-dependent memory impairment and associated neuropathologies. Patients with VaD also experience attentional shifting dysfunction. However, animal models of VaD have not been used to study attentional function. Therefore, the present study examined attentional function in rats with BCCAo, using attentional set-shifting task (ASST) that required rats to choose a food-baited pot from 2 possible pots. ASST included 6 consecutive sessions including simple discrimination, compound discrimination, intradimensional shifting, extradimensional shifting, and reversals. The BCCAo rats were significantly slower at learning the intradimensional set-shifting task compared to control rats. Previous studies have demonstrated that the cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex are critical to intradimensional and extradimensional set-shifting, respectively. Additionally, inflammatory responses and neuronal dysfunction were observed in rats with chronic BCCAo. In addition, OX-6 positive microglia significantly increased in the forceps minor white matter of BCCAo rats, and glutamate decarboxylase signals co-localized with NeuN were reduced in the anterior cingulate cortex of BCCAo rats, compared to control rats. Impaired neuronal and GABAergic neuronal integrity in the anterior cingulate cortex, damage to white matter, and attentional impairments observed in BCCAo rats suggest dysfunction of brain structures that are associated with attentional impairments observed in patients with VaD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we hypothesized that the delivery of molecules that regulate the microenvironment after a cerebral infarction can influence regeneration potential after a stroke. Stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α) is a chemoattractant molecule that plays a pivotal role in recruiting endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) to the infarct region after stroke. Increased SDF-1α expression leads to increased EPCs homing at the infarct region and induces neurogenesis, angiogenesis, neuroprotection, and stem cell homing. Thus, we evaluated the effects of targeted delivery of SDF-1α using a pH-sensitive polymer poly (urethane amino sulfamethazine) (PUASM), a synthetic macromolecule with potential for targeted drug delivery in acidic conditions, to enhance therapeutic neurogenesis and angiogenesis in a rat model of permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion. A dual ionic pH-sensitive copolymer PUASM-based random copolymer was designed and synthesized for the controlled release of SDF-1α in stroke. Owing to the unique characteristics of PUASM, it exhibited a dual ionic pH-sensitive property in an aqueous solution. At pH 8.5, the copolymer exhibited a negative charge and was water soluble. Interestingly, when the pH decreased to 7.4, PUASM could form a micelle and encapsulate protein effectively via the ionic interaction between a negatively charged polymer and a positively charged protein. At pH 5.5, the ionization of tertiary amines led to the disassembly of the micellar structure and released the protein rapidly. Then, we investigated the effect of systemic administration of SDF-1α-loaded pH-sensitive polymeric micelles in a stroke induced rat model. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed increased expression of SDF-1α in the ischemic region, indicating that the pH-sensitive micelles effectively delivered SDF-1α into the ischemic region. In order to observe the biodistribution of SDF-1α in the ischemic region, it was labeled with the near-infrared dye, Cy5.5. Optical imaging showed that the Cy5.5 signal increased in the infarct region 24 h after administration. Immunohistochemistry data showed that targeted delivery of SDF-1α enhanced neurogenesis and angiogenesis, but did not influence cell survival or inflammation. These observations suggest that SDF-1α-loaded pH-sensitive polymeric micelles can be used as pH-triggered targeting agents and can effectively modify the microenvironment to increase innate neurorestorative processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

R3680 --> 610.4 --> The central nervous system (CNS) is strongly implicated in cardiovascular disease development including hypertension. In particular, alterations in the subfornical organ (SFO), a forebrain sensory circumventricular nucleus located outside of the blood‐brain‐barrier, is directly associated with hypertension in response to elevations in the hormone angiotensin‐II (Ang‐II). From a circuitry perspective, SFO excitatory neurons that project to the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN; hereafter referred to as SFO to PVN) have been suggested to be critical in the development of Ang‐II hypertension. While most investigations have focused on functional mechanisms, little attention has been paid to anatomical synaptic reorganization of SFO to PVN circuits during hypertension development. Thus, we aimed to characterize SFO to PVN synaptic input during hypertension development and further delineate molecular mechanisms involved. Male C57Bl/6J mice were infused with Ang‐II (600 ng/kg/min) for 14 days. Immunohistochemistry in the PVN following Ang‐II infusion revealed elevations in synaptophysin, pointing to overall increases in synaptic innervation of this nucleus (100 ± 1 vs. 112 ± 2 density/area, day 0 vs day 14, n=3/group, p<0.05). Given the strong link between SFO to PVN neurons in cardiovascular regulation, we next focused on the SFO. Our recent work demonstrated a key role for SFO insulin receptors in blood pressure regulation, and therefore, we determined if insulin receptors are expressed on SFO to PVN neurons using retrograde cholera toxin B tracing from the PVN. Immunohistochemistry revealed clear expression of insulin receptors on SFO to PVN neurons. Building on this, we and others have characterized a novel neural tissue‐enriched epidermal growth factor repeat domain containing protein (NELL2) that is involved in axonal projections and synaptic reorganization. Importantly, NELL2 has been suggested to be a downstream signaling molecule of neurotropic receptors, such as insulin receptors. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry confirmed the expression of NELL2 in the SFO, and further demonstrated elevated SFO NELL2 during Ang‐II hypertension (100 ± 5 vs. 137 ± 15 density/area, day 0 vs day 14, n=3‐4, p<0.05). Interestingly, co‐immunohistochemistry indicated that the majority of SFO insulin receptor cells express NELL2. Finally, to determine functional crosstalk between insulin receptors and NELL2, we utilized in vitro cell culture experiments. Hippocampal HT22 cells were transfected with a NELL2‐luciferase dependent vector and insulin was administrated into the medium. Insulin stimulated NELL2 gene transcription in a dose‐dependent manner (e.g. 174 and 196% increase relative to vehicle, 100 and 1000 nM insulin respectively, n=3/group, p<0.05). Collectively, these results indicate increased PVN synaptic innervation during hypertension. Moreover, they point to an SFO insulin receptor‐NELL2 network that may be involved in Ang‐II hypertension development, potentially via reorganization of SFO to PVN synaptic circuits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a fault identification and tolerant method for switched reluctance motor (SRM) drives. The reliability of a power transistor in a power converter is the source of most problems in several industrial applications. It is critical to correctly diagnosis the faults occurring in a drive system to avoid harmful accidents and to ensure continuity of operation. In this paper, two types of faults, namely, short- and open-circuit faults, are analyzed on the basis of the current patterns of the power transistors of SRM drives. A fault is detected when the measured amplitude of the current differs from that of the normal-state current. A fault-tolerant scheme is applied according to the type of fault. Simulations and experiments are performed on a 1.0-kW SRM drive. The results are presented to verify the validity of the proposed method. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Although health education has proven to be cost-effective in slowing the spread of enterobiasis, assessments of the effectiveness of health education to reduce infectious diseases specifically in children are rare. To evaluate the effect of health education on knowledge, preventative practices, and the prevalence of enterobiasis, 319 children from 16 classes were divided into experimental and control groups. Data were collected from May 2012 to March 2013. A 40-minute in-class talk was given once in the experimental group. There were significant differences over the time in the mean scores for children's knowledge of Enterobius vermicularis infection in the intervention group compared to the control group (p<0.001). After the educational session, the score for knowledge about E. vermicularis infection increased from 60.2±2.32 to 92.7±1.19 in the experimental group; this gain was partially lost 3 months later, decreasing to 83.6±1.77 (p<0.001). Children's enterobiasis infection prevention practice scores also increased, from 3.23±0.27 to 3.73±0.25, 1 week after the educational session, a gain that was partially lost at 3 months, decreasing to 3.46±0.36 (p<0.001). The overall E. vermicularis egg detection rate was 4.4%; the rates for each school ranged from 0% to 12.9% at screening. The infection rate at 3 months after the treatment sharply decreased from 12.3% to 0.8% in the experimental group, compared to a decrease from 8.5% to 3.7% in the control group during the same period. We recommend that health education on enterobiasis be provided to children to increase their knowledge about enterobiasis and improve prevention practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, an effective output voltage control method using adjustable frequency–duty-cycle hybrid control is presented. By using the proposed method, the operating performance of the full-bridge series resonant dc–dc converter applied to the onboard charger in electric vehicles under the constant-voltage charge mode is improved. The proposed control method improves the system efficiency of the charger up to 4% for light load conditions compared with the conventional control method without any extra hardware. A theoretical analysis is described along with a loss analysis in detail, and the validity of the proposed method is verified by experiment with a 3.3-kW prototype onboard charger. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Ligularia fischeri is a perennial herb isolated from plants of the Asteraceae family. Ligularia fischeri is distributed throughout Korea, Japan, eastern Siberia, and China. Aims: The aim of this study is to examine the intracellular inhibitory effect of Ligularia fischeri ethanol extract on melanin synthesis and expression of tyrosinase and tyrosinase‐related protein 1 and 2. In addition, we analyzed the mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway and microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor in alpha‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone‐stimulated B16F10 melanoma cells. Methods: To assess the inhibition of melanogenesis in alpha‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone‐stimulated B16F10 melanoma cells, the expression of melanogenesis‐related genes was investigated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, while western blotting was performed to determine protein expression levels. Results: We confirmed that the ethanol extract of Ligularia fischeri inhibited melanin synthesis in vitro by decreasing tyrosinase and tyrosinase‐related protein 1 and 2 expression. Furthermore, we revealed that tyrosinase expression was regulated by the suppression of microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor expression and activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation. The ethanol extract of Ligularia fischeri inhibited melanogenesis by activating extracellular signal‐regulated kinase phosphorylation and suppressing microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor and tyrosinase expression. Conclusions: Ligularia fischeri ethanol extract may be used as an effective skin whitening agent in functional cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly and represents an important and increasing clinical challenge in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Mutations in the genes encoding amyloid precursor protein (APP), presenilin 1 (PSEN1) and presenilin 2 (PSEN2) are responsible for early-onset autosomal dominant AD. The ε4 allele of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene has been recognized as a major genetic risk factor for the more common, complex, late-onset AD. Fibrillar deposits by phosphorylated tau are also a key pathological feature of AD. The retromer complex also has been reported to late-onset AD. More recently, genome-wide association studies (GWASs) identified putative novel candidate genes associated with late-onset AD. Lastly, several studies showed that circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood serum of AD patients can be used as biomarkers in AD diagnosis. This review addresses the advances and challenges in determining genetic and diagnostic markers for complex AD pathogenesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

NELL2 was first identified as a mammalian homolog of chick NEL (Neural EGF-like) protein. It is almost exclusively expressed in neurons of the rat brain and has been suggested to play a role in neural differentiation. However, there is still no clear evidence for the detailed function of NELL2 in the differentiation of neurons. In this study, we identified NELL2 function during neural differentiation of mouse embryonic carcinoma P19 cells. Endogenous expression of NELL2 in the P19 cells increased in parallel with the neuronal differentiation induced by retinoic acid (RA). We found that the mouse NELL2 promoter contains RA response elements (RAREs) and that treatment with RA increased NELL2 promoter activity. Transfection of P19 cells with NELL2 expression vectors induced a dramatic increase in cell aggregation, resulting in the facilitation of neural differentiation. Moreover, NELL2 significantly increased N-cadherin expression in the P19 cell. These data suggest that NELL2 plays an important role in the regulation of neuronal differentiation via control of N-cadherin expression and cell aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design and implementation of a high-efficiency nonisolated single-stage on-board battery charger (OBC) for electric vehicles are presented. Reviewing the conventional topologies, a suitable circuit structure is determined to charge a battery in a wide spectrum of input and output conditions. Additionally, a suitable strategy for a highly efficient OBC is presented through the analysis of selected topology. A detailed theoretical analysis, operating strategy, and experimental results on a 3.7-kW prototype are presented in order to evaluate the performance of the proposed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to use interleaved boost converters in the discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), the variation in the phase current and the input current ripple is analyzed theoretically. Based on the detailed analysis, a numerical formula for the input current ripple is deduced by including three criteria. Using the numerical formula, the optimized inductance that reduces the input current ripple and losses is deduced. The boundary conduction mode (BCM) is also compared with the discontinuous conduction mode to verify their strong points. In order to verify the analysis, simulation and experimental results are compared with theoretical data. The consideration of the BCM is also progressed by comparing with the DCM, and the results were different in terms of the efficiency and the input current ripple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NELL2 was first identified as a mammalian homolog of the chicken NEL protein. It was expressed in neurons and has been suggested to play a role in cell survival. However, no clear evidence has yet been available for functions of NELL2. In this study, we found two E2F1 binding sites located in the NELL2 promoter region. We examined the expression of NELL2 and E2F1 in human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB231, MCF7) and bladder cancer cells (5637, UC5). In MDA-MB231 and 5637, the expression levels of NELL2 and E2F1 were higher. To examine the interaction between E2F1 and NELL2, the binding activity was checked by a promoter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation. From the results, we suggest that NELL2 is a novel target gene of E2F1, which is a key regulator of cell proliferation. We reveal that expression of NELL2 is regulated by E2F1, specifically, mRNA and protein levels of NELL2 are elevated upon activation of exogenous E2F1. Moreover, cells overexpressing NELL2 increased their invasive ability and an enhancement of the effect was observed when NELL2 and E2F1 were coexpressed in MDA-MB231 cells. Therefore, we suggest a novel activity for NELL2 in cancer progression through the regulation of E2F1. NELL2 is expressed in neurons and may contribute to cell survival. This study has found two E2F1 binding sites in the promoter of NELL2, and then observed increased expression of its mRNA and protein in several tumors. They suggest that this may contribute to cancer progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]