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While organizations have increasingly engaged in corporate social advocacy (CSA) for sexual and gender diverse populations, transgender people have often been overlooked in LGBTQ advocacy campaigns. Among the different strategic communication tactics that can be used in CSA, advertising is an important channel for organizations to send their prosocial messages as well as to publicly demonstrate their support of particular causes and populations. Given the tension between growing social acceptance of gender diverse populations and anti-transgender political landscape in the USA, only a handful of organizations have recently shown transgender advocacy advertising campaigns. This study explores corporate transgender advocacy advertising campaigns as one contemporary CSA program, attending to the role of authenticity in CSA effectiveness. Findings show cisgender people perceive authenticity from transgender advocacy advertising campaigns regardless of their gender, which in turn, mitigates consumer skepticism and increases the willingness to engage with the campaign on social media and, further, to engage with other transgender advocacy campaigns. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the incidence and risk factors of complications following gastric cancer surgery in Korea and to compare the correlation between hospital complications based on the annual number of gastrectomies performed. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from 12,244 patients from 64 Korean institutions. Complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo classification (CDC). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for severe complications. Results: Postoperative complications occurred in 14% of the patients, severe complications (CDC IIIa or higher) in 4.9%, and postoperative death in 0.2%. The study found that age, stage, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, hospital stay, approach methods, and extent of gastric resection showed statistically significant differences depending on hospital volumes (P<0.05). In the univariate analysis, patient age, comorbidity, ASA score, ECOG score, approach methods, extent of gastric resection, tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stage, and hospital volume were significant risk factors for severe complications. However, only age, sex, ASA score, ECOG score, extent of gastric resection, and TNM stage were statistically significant in the multivariate analysis (P<0.05). Hospital volume was not a significant risk factor in the multivariate analysis (P=0.152). Conclusions: Hospital volume was not a significant risk factor for complications after gastric cancer surgery. The differences in the frequencies of complications based on hospital volumes may be attributed to larger hospitals treating patients with younger age, lower ASA scores, better general conditions, and earlier TNM stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Upon a surge of misinformation surrounding COVID-19, fact-checking has received much attention as a tool to fight the rampant misinformation. However, such correction efforts have faced challenges from partisans' biased information processing. For example, partisans trust or distrust a fact-checking message based on whether the message benefits or harms their supporting party. To minimize such politically biased processing of corrective health information, this experimental study examined how different source labels of fact-checkers (human experts vs. AI vs. user consensus) affect partisans' perceived credibility of fact-checking messages about COVID-19. Our findings showed that AI and user consensus (vs. human experts) source labels on fact-checking messages significantly reduced partisan-based motivated reasoning in evaluating fact-checking message credibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) poses serious health risks to humans; yet, despite recommendations by governments and health organizations, a significant number of Americans are not engaging in preventive behaviors. To understand and explain this phenomenon, we seek guidance from a theoretical model that merges the risk information seeking and processing model and the theory of planned behavior. Furthermore, given the politicized nature of the pandemic in the U.S., we pose different information seeking patterns according to media partisanship, asserting that partisanship is likely to affect cognitive structures regarding COVID-19 decision making. Our results suggest two distinct routes for information seeking to decision-making. Conservative media use is directly associated with preventive behavior avoidance, while liberal media use is indirectly associated with preventive behavior engagement. This work contributes to our collective understanding of what drives preventive behaviors in the context of health risk, particularly in the case of a highly politicized national health crisis with global implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • 1% Ru nanoparticle-encapsulating ETS-10 is an excellent CO 2 methanation catalyst. • Intrinsic TOF of 3321 h−1 is remarkably higher than the reported maximum of 1188 h−1. • CO 2 -capturing ability of the host and electron-rich Ru NP are essential for high TOF. • 1% Ru loading into the host is important to keep the nanoparticle sizes small. • Incorporation of Ru3+ into ETS-10 by ion exchange is key to high performance. Catalytic thermal hydrogenation of CO 2 to CH 4 with renewably produced H 2 is one of the routes to reduce the CO 2 concentration in the atmosphere. In this respect, various catalysts have been developed. Among them, 5% Ru-loaded Al 2 O 3 [Ru(5%)-Al 2 O 3 ] has shown the highest performance, at 300 °C, in terms of the intrinsic reaction rate and the turnover frequency (TOF), which were 38 mmol CH4 g−1h−1 and 1188 h−1, respectively. The CH 4 selectivity of the catalyst was 95%. Despite of the above and other achievements, the developments of the catalysts that exhibit higher performances should be continued. This work now reports that 1% Ru-loaded ETS-10 [Ru(1%)-ETS-10] and 1% Ru-loaded TiO 2 [Ru(1%)-TiO 2 ] give the intrinsic reaction rates of 329 and 266 mmol CH4 g−1h−1, TOFs of 3321 and 2684 h−1 with the CH 4 selectivities of 85.8 and 97.9%, respectively. In particular, Ru(1%)-ETS-10 is superior to Ru(1%)-TiO 2 in terms of the stability (stable for more than 130 h). The analyses of the above three catalysts suggested the guidelines to prepare high performance catalysts, which are the support should be microporous materials and should possess the capability to introduce metal ions into the support by cation exchange so that they can be activated to metal nanoparticles by reduction, the support should be able to stabilize the metal nanoparticles, the active metal catalysts should be 2–5 nm sized three-dimensional (3D) Ru x nanoparticles, the loading level of Ru x nanoparticles should be 1%, the support should have the affinity to capture CO 2 so that the catalyst can have the dual functionality of CO 2 capture and CO 2 reduction, the Ru x nanoparticles should be highly basic, and the prepared Ru x nanoparticles should not be poisoned by CO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Fluid supplementation and red blood cell (RBC) transfusions form first-line management strategies to maintain circulating blood volumes in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). In this study, we aimed to analyze the utility of the AIMS65 score in predicting the volume of RBC transfusion required in patients with bleeding peptic ulcers. Methods In this single-center, retrospective study, the data of patients admitted between January 2019 and December 2019 with suspected UGIB were retrospectively reviewed. The RBC volume transfused during pre- and postendoscopic hemostasis was measured in relation to various patient factors including the AIMS65 scores. Results Transfusion rates, the mean number of transfused RBC units, and the duration of hospital stay differed significantly between patients with low AIMS65 scores and those with high AIMS65 scores. Patients with an AIMS65 score of 3 were transfused with more RBC units in the postendoscopic hemostasis period, compared with those with an AIMS65 score of 0, 1, or 2 (with a mean of 4.33 ± 2.07 and 2.67 ± 4.1 units transfused during the pre-endoscopic and postendoscopic hemostasis periods, respectively). Conclusion Patients with UGIB and with an AIMS65 score of 3 were more likely to require transfusions of RBCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recently, a simple tailored therapy based on clarithromycin resistance has been implemented as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication therapy. Nonetheless, despite the tailored therapy and frequent adverse events, studies on treatment period are lacking. This study aimed to compare the H. pylori eradication rates of 7‐day and 14‐day tailored therapy regimens according to clarithromycin resistance. Materials and Methods: This multicenter, prospective, randomized, noninferiority trial enrolled H. pylori‐positive patients who were randomly assigned to 7‐day and 14‐day regimen groups, depending on the presence or absence of clarithromycin resistance by 23S rRNA gene point mutations. Standard triple therapy (STT) (20 mg rabeprazole, 1 g amoxicillin, and 500 mg clarithromycin twice daily) or bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) (20 mg rabeprazole twice daily, 500 mg metronidazole thrice daily, 120 mg bismuth four times daily, and 500 mg tetracycline four times daily) was assigned by clarithromycin resistance. Eradication rates and adverse events were evaluated. Results: A total of 314 and 278 patients were included in the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and per‐protocol (PP) analyses, respectively; however, 31 patients were lost to follow‐up, whereas five patients violated the protocol. Both the 7‐day and 14‐day regimens showed similar eradication rates in the ITT (7‐day vs. 14‐day: 78.3% vs. 78.3%, p > 0.99) and PP (87.9% vs. 89.1%, p = 0.851) analyses. Non‐inferiority was confirmed (p < 0.025). A subgroup analysis according to clarithromycin resistance (clarithromycin resistance rate: 28.7%) revealed no significant difference in eradication rates between the 7‐day and 14‐day STT (90.0% vs. 90.1%, p > 0.99) and BQT (82.5% vs. 86.5%, p = 0.757). Furthermore, adverse events did not significantly differ between the two groups. Conclusions: The 7‐day triple and quadruple therapy according to clarithromycin resistance showed similar eradication rates, as compared to the 14‐day therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption, modulated by APOE4 mutation, is implicated in the pathogenesis of cognitive decline. We determined whether BBB permeability differed according to cognitive functioning and APOE4 status in elderly subjects without dementia. In this prospective study, 33 subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 33 age-matched controls (normal cognition [NC]) underwent 3 T brain magnetic resonance imaging. The Patlak model was used to calculate tissue permeability (Ktrans). A region-of interest analysis of Ktrans was performed to compare relevant brain regions. Effects of Ktrans on cognitive functioning were evaluated with linear regression analysis adjusted for confounding factors. NC and MCI groups did not differ in terms of vascular risk factors or hippocampal Ktrans, except for hippocampal volume. Hippocampal Ktrans was significantly higher in APOE4 carriers than in non-carriers (p = 0.007). Factors which predicted cognitive functioning included hippocampal volume (beta=−0.445, standard error [SE]=0.137, p = 0.003) and hippocampal BBB permeability (beta = 0.142, SE = 0.050, p = 0.008) after correcting for age, education, and APOE4 status. This suggests that hippocampal BBB permeability is associated with APOE4 mutation, and may predict cognitive functioning. BBB permeability imaging represents a distinct imaging biomarker for APOE4 mutations in NC and MCI subjects and for determining the degree of APOE4-related pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastric mesenchymal tumors (GMTs) are incidentally discovered in national gastric screening programs in Korea. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is the most useful diagnostic modality for evaluating GMTs. The differentiation of gastrointestinal stromal tumors from benign mesenchymal tumors, such as schwannomas or leiomyomas, is important to ensure appropriate clinical management. However, this is difficult and operator dependent because of the subjective interpretation of EUS images. Digital image analysis computes the distribution and spatial variation of pixels using texture analysis to extract useful data, enabling the objective analysis of EUS images and decreasing interobserver and intraobserver agreement in EUS image interpretation. This review aimed to summarize the usefulness and future of digital EUS image analysis for GMTs based on published reports and our experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the performance of a zigzag type mist eliminator with drainage channels was improved using slit plates. The collection efficiency of the mist eliminator was numerically investigated by considering the Eulerian-Lagrangian approach. The effect of the slit plates on the mist eliminator performance was evaluated by attaching a slit plate to the front of each drainage channel. The slit plates were used to continuously change the airflow direction, which can cause large droplets to deviate from the streamlines owing to their inertia and become trapped in the mist eliminator walls, thereby improving the capturing capability of the mist eliminator. The installation of the slit plates improved the collection efficiency of the mist eliminator for 2-μm droplets by more than 10 %. Furthermore, pressure drop in the proposed model was 5 %-10 % lower than that in the reference model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although numerous studies have explained the flow of misinformation, finding studies that theoretically examine the psychological factors related to individuals’ information behaviours is difficult. Social media data or meta-level analyses have limitations in providing an understanding of behaviours and processes at the individual level. Accordingly, this study aims to construct a predictive model for biased information seeking and sharing as a response to misinformation, which is information without the certainty of its truth, through a survey (N = 602). Applying social psychological concepts (i.e. social identity theory), two types of social identities were proposed as key factors of biased information seeking and sharing in the research model. Our model allows forecasting of what types of individuals are more likely to skip the fact-checking process and share misinformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare long-term disease-free survival (DFS) between patients receiving tegafur/gimeracil/oteracil (S-1) or capecitabine plus oxaliplatin (CAPOX) adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) for gastric cancer (GC). Materials and Methods: This retrospective multicenter observational study enrolled 983 patients who underwent curative gastrectomy with consecutive AC with S-1 or CAPOX for stage II or III GC at 27 hospitals in Korea between February 2012 and December 2013. We conducted propensity score matching to reduce selection bias. Long-term oncologic outcomes, including DFS rate over 5 years (over-5yr DFS), were analyzed postoperatively. Results: The median and longest follow-up period were 59.0 and 87.6 months, respectively. DFS rate did not differ between patients who received S-1 and CAPOX for pathologic stage II (P=0.677) and stage III (P=0.899) GC. Moreover, hazard ratio (HR) for recurrence did not differ significantly between S-1 and CAPOX (reference) in stage II (HR, 1.846; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.693-4.919; P=0.220) and stage III (HR, 0.942; 95% CI, 0.664-1.337; P=0.738) GC. After adjustment for significance in multivariate analysis, pT (4 vs. 1) (HR, 11.667; 95% CI, 1.595-85.351; P=0.016), pN stage (0 vs. 3) (HR, 2.788; 95% CI, 1.502-5.174; P=0.001), and completion of planned chemotherapy (HR, 2.213; 95% CI, 1.618-3.028; P<0.001) were determined as independent prognostic factors for DFS. Conclusions: S-1 and CAPOX AC regimens did not show significant difference in over-5yr DFS after curative gastrectomy in patients with stage II or III GC. The pT, pN stage, and completion of planned chemotherapy were prognostic factors for GC recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: When gastric mesenchymal tumors (GMTs) measuring 2–5 cm in size are found, whether to undergo further treatment or not is controversial. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is useful for the evaluation of malignant potential of GMTs, but has limitations, such as subjective interpretation of EUS images. Therefore, we aimed to develop a scoring system based on the digital image analysis of EUS images to predict gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Methods: We included 103 patients with histopathologically proven GIST, leiomyoma or schwannoma on surgically resected specimen who underwent EUS examination between January 2007 and June 2018. After standardization of the EUS images, brightness values, including the mean (Tmean), indicative of echogenicity, and the standard deviation (TSD), indicative of heterogeneity, in the tumors were analyzed. Results: Age, Tmean, and TSD were significantly higher in GISTs than in non-GISTs. The sensitivity and specificity were almost optimized for differentiating GISTs from non-GISTs when the critical values of age, Tmean, and TSD were 57.5 years, 67.0, and 25.6, respectively. A GIST-predicting scoring system was created by assigning 3 points for Tmean ≥ 67, 2 points for age ≥ 58 years, and 1 point for TSD ≥ 26. When GMTs with 3 points or more were diagnosed as GISTs, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the scoring system were 86.5%, 75.9%, and 83.5%, respectively. Conclusions: The scoring system based on the information of digital image analysis is useful in predicting GISTs in case of GMTs that are 2–5 cm in size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Matrix metalloproteinase-1 plays a pivotal role in wound healing and pathologies. • In-house assay system for MMP-1 was developed using β-lactamase zymogen. • Using the system, peptide inhibitors of MMP-1 collagenase activity were identified. • The peptide inhibitor had a sequence of GFTLGRGDACTTHW. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc-dependent proteases involved in the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins. As one of the isoforms, MMP-1 breaks down collagen, and its activity is known to be important in wound healing. Its timely and adequate level of expression is pivotal because MMP-1 is also involved in the damage or aging of skins as well as in certain types of cancers. Thus, both assaying the MMP-1 activity and developing its inhibitors are of great importance. We here developed an in-house assay system that gave us the high degree of freedom in screening peptide inhibitors of MMP-1. The assay system utilized a circularly permutated fusion of β-lactamase and its inhibitory protein through an MMP-1-sensitive linker so that the activity of MMP-1 could be translated into that of β-lactamase. As a proof of concept, we applied the developed assay system to initial screens of MMP-1 inhibitors and successfully identified one lead peptide that inhibited the collagenase activity of the enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early detection and accurate monitoring of cancer is important for improving clinical outcomes. Endoscopic biopsy and/ or surgical resection specimens are the gold standard for diagnosing gastric cancer and are also useful for selecting therapeutic strategies based on the analysis of genomic/ immune parameters. However, these approaches cannot be easily performed because of their invasiveness and because these specimens do not always reflect tumor dynamics and drug sensitivities during therapeutic processes, especially chemotherapy. Accordingly, many researchers have tried to develop noninvasive novel biomarkers that can monitor realtime tumor dynamics for early diagnosis, prognostic evaluation, and prediction of recurrence and therapeutic efficacy. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are metastatic cells that are released from the primary tumors into the blood stream and comprise a crucial step in hematogenous metastasis. CTCs, as a liquid biopsy, have received a considerable amount of attention from researchers since they are easily accessible in peripheral blood, avoiding the invasiveness associated with traditional biopsy techniques; they can also be used to derive clinical information for monitoring disease status. In this review, with respect to CTCs, we summarize the metastatic cascade, detection methods, clinical applications, and prospects for patients with gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Many factors are known to affect the rate of cognitive decline; however, studies on clinical outcomes are rare. Muscle profile and their relationship to dementia trajectories have not been extensively investigated. We investigated factors that affect the rate of clinical decline and the usefulness of muscle profiles for predicting the clinical outcomes of patients with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Objective: Sixty-nine subjects with probable AD were included and several factors that are known to affect the rate of cognitive decline were evaluated. Methods: Over a period of 3 years, each subject received an annual evaluation that included a clinical interview and an assessment of their cognitive status as measured by a clinical dementia rating-sum of boxes (CDR-SOB) score. Linear mixed-effects models were used to test for associations between each factor and the -CDR-SOB score over time. These analyses were repeated in a multivariate linear mixed-effects model after adjusting the covariates. Results: Age, diabetes mellitus, and baseline dementia severity were identified as potential covariates that influence clinical progression. However, a subject's muscle profile was not found to predict dementia progression. Conclusions: We expect that early screening and intervention, as well as new drugs with mechanisms of action similar to those of antidiabetic medications, will help patients with dementia maintain their clinical status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia worldwide. Interestingly, muscle mass (MM) and muscle strength (MS) are related to AD. In addition to the muscle profile, brain atrophy is also a prominent feature of AD. There is substantial evidence showing an association between muscle profile and dementia, but the role of the muscle profile and cerebral cortical atrophy within this association is less well understood. The objective of this study was to determine if there is any association between muscle profile and brain regional volume in AD. A secondary objective was to determine whether this relationship continues as the clinical stage of AD progresses. Methods: We recruited 28 patients with probable AD without weakness. We assessed the patients' basic demographic characteristics, Mini-Mental State Examination score, and brain magnetic resonance images. MM was measured using body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. MS was assessed in Nm/kg with an isokinetic knee extensor using an isokinetic device at an angular velocity of 60°/s. An automatic analysis program was used for brain regional volumetric measurements. Dementia was divided into two stages: mild and moderate. Results: MS was related to left hippocampal volume ratio. After adjusting for age and cognitive status, the relationship remained. MS did not demonstrate any relationship to any brain regional volume ratio in the mild stage; however, in the moderate stage, it was positively related to both the right and the left hippocampal volume ratio. Conclusions: Our findings imply a shared underlying pathology relating MS and brain volume and suggest cognitive functional declines through the muscle-brain axis. Further longitudinal studies are needed to find possible and related causes of reduced MS and cortical atrophy in patients with dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Several observations supporting the Dry Spot/Dry Patch models were introduced. • Based on the observation the physical basis for the Dry Spot model was described. • The Dry Spot and Dry Patch models well predict CHF for pool and convective boiling. • Using the concept of the suppression of NSD, the whole boiling curve was predicted. Abstract Recently advanced visualization techniques such as total reflection and IR methods have been applied to observe thermally and hydraulically the CHF mechanism at the surface as well as macroscopic bubble dynamics simultaneously. Based on observation Ha and No (1998a,b, 2000), and Choi et al. (2016) developed a Dry spot model and a Dry patch model, which is an extension version of the dry spot model. Experimental observations clearly showed that the production of unquenchable dry patches mainly contributes to the initiation of CHF. Based on the above observatory conclusions and extensive literature survey, we discussed the physical basis of the Dry Spot/Dry Patch model. In the dry spot model, we assume that the dry spot can become unquenchable one when it is surrounded by 5 neighboring dry spots based on the geometrical consideration, which was confirmed by validation process. In the dry patch model, both criteria from the hydraulic and thermal considerations were proposed to estimate the critical size of unquenchable dry patch at CHF. The wall dry area fraction can be calculated by applying a probabilistic concept for the creation of the unquenchable dry patch. We showed that the Dry Spot/Dry Patch model can be extended into CHF predictions in both pool boiling and forced convective boiling. For transition boiling, we proposed models to represent two suppression mechanisms deactivating potential nucleation sites: nucleation site deactivation and non-availability mechanism. For the physical model of the nucleation site deactivation mechanism we introduced the spatial randomness concept. For the non-availability mechanism we proposed the multi-stage calculation method which considers the sequential bubble activation and their interaction. Then, we showed that the dry spot model modified with the current transition model well predicted the whole boiling curve including CHF, nucleate boiling, transition boiling, and film boiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Production yields of erythorbyl laurate were compared among three reaction systems. • Gas-solid-liquid multiphase system (GSL-MPS) was established. • Effects of reaction variables on the production yield in GSL-MPS were evaluated. • Erythorbyl laurate was synthesized in high yield in GSL-MPS. Abstract Erythorbyl laurate is a potential food additive as a multi-functional emulsifier having antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. In this study, a gas-solid-liquid multiphase system (GSL-MPS) was established to enhance the production yield of erythorbyl laurate in a lipase-catalyzed solvent-free synthesis. The significant reaction variables were optimized as follows: substrate molar ratio of 2:1 (lauric acid:erythorbic acid) and enzyme concentration of 120 mg/mL (840 PLU/mL). Under these conditions, the maximum production yield in GSL-MPS was 13.974 mg/mL, which is 8.60- and 4.26-fold higher than the yields obtained in an organic solvent monophase system (OS-MPS) and a solid-liquid biphase system (SL-BPS), respectively. Moreover, the operational stability of the immobilized lipase was significantly improved in GSL-MPS compared with OS-MPS. These results indicate that GSL-MPS can be an enzymatic reaction system facilitating efficient production of ester compounds as a means of increasing production yields and the reusability of the immobilized lipase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerging evidence suggests that diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with iron and calcium metabolism. However, few studies have investigated the presence of DM in cognitively impaired patients and its effect on brain iron and calcium accumulation. Therefore, we assessed the effects of DM on cognitively impaired patients using quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM). From June 2012 to Feb 2014, 92 eligible cognitively impaired patients underwent 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). There were 46 patients with DM (DM+) and 46 aged matched patients without DM (DM-). QSM was obtained from gradient echo data and analyzed by drawing regions of interest around relevant anatomical structures. Clinical factors and vascular pathology were also evaluated. Measurement differences between DM+ and DM- patients were assessed by t tests. A multiple regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of magnetic susceptibility. DM+ patients showed lower susceptibility values, indicative of lower brain iron content, than DM- patients, which was significant in the hippocampus (4.80 ± 8.31 ppb versus 0.22 ± 10.60 ppb, p = 0.024) and pulvinar of the thalamus (36.30 ± 19.88 ppb versus 45.90 ± 20.02 ppb, p = 0.023). On multiple regression analysis, microbleed number was a predictor of susceptibility change in the hippocampus (F = 4.291, beta = 0.236, p = 0.042) and DM was a predictor of susceptibility change in the pulvinar of the thalamus (F = 4.900, beta = - 0.251, p = 0.030). In cognitively impaired patients, presence of DM was associated with lower susceptibility change in the pulvinar of the thalamus and hippocampus. This suggests that there may be region-specific alterations of calcium deposition in cognitively impaired subjects with DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) for the characterization of various lesion types in dogs with spinal cord injury (SCI) has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to characterize scarring (loose immature scarring [LIMS], intermediate mature scarring [IMS], and dense mature scarring [DMS]), necrosis, cavitation, and acute hemorrhage using multiple DTI parameters and determine the correlations between the DTI parameters and histopathological finding in dogs with controlled SCI. All imaging data were obtained from the lumbar spinal cord (from L1 to L3) of normal and SCI dogs using a 3-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging scanner. Transverse multi-shot echo planar imaging (EPI) sequences (12 directions; b-value, 0 and 800 s/mm2) were used for DTI. Regions of interest on DTI maps were selected according to the areas of normal white matter (NWM), normal gray matter (NGM), LIMS, IMS, DMS, necrosis, and cavitation on histopathological images and the area of acute hemorrhage with a hypointense signal on T2*-weighted images obtained 24 h post-SCI. There were statistically significant differences in DTI parameters among NWM, NGM, multi-grade scarring, necrosis, and cavitation and between mature scarring and acute hemorrhage. The maturation grade of scarring demonstrated a positive linear correlation with fractional anisotropy and the planar index and a negative linear correlation with the spherical index and the radial, mean, and axial diffusivities. These results suggest the feasibility of using DTI for detailed noninvasive monitoring of SCI. DTI can provide critical information for guiding therapeutic strategies and determining the prognosis of SCI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This prospective multi-center study aimed to evaluate the inter-vendor and test-retest reliabilities of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (RS-fMRI) by assessing the temporal signal-to-noise ratio (tSNR) and functional connectivity. Study included 10 healthy subjects and each subject was scanned using three 3 T MR scanners (GE Signa HDxt, Siemens Skyra, and Philips Achieva) in two sessions. The tSNR was calculated from the time course data. Inter-vendor and test-retest reliabilities were assessed with intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) derived from variant component analysis. Independent component analysis was performed to identify the connectivity of the default-mode network (DMN). In result, the tSNR for the DMN was not significantly different among the GE, Philips, and Siemens scanners ( P = 0.638). In terms of vendor differences, the inter-vendor reliability was good (ICC = 0.774). Regarding the test-retest reliability, the GE scanner showed excellent correlation (ICC = 0.961), while the Philips (ICC = 0.671) and Siemens (ICC = 0.726) scanners showed relatively good correlation. The DMN pattern of the subjects between the two sessions for each scanner and between three scanners showed the identical patterns of functional connectivity. The inter-vendor and test-retest reliabilities of RS-fMRI using different 3 T MR scanners are good. Thus, we suggest that RS-fMRI could be used in multicenter imaging studies as a reliable imaging marker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of multiparametric quantitative MRI for myelination quantification in children. Methods: We examined 22 children (age 0-14 years) with multiparametric quantitative MRI. The total volume of myelin partial volume (Msum), the percentage of Msum within the whole brain parenchyma (Mbpv), and the percentage of Msum within the intracranial volume (Micv) were obtained. Four developmental models of myelin maturation (the logarithmic, logistic, Gompertz, and modified Gompertz models) were examined to find the most representative model of the three parameters. We acquired myelin partial volume values in different brain regions and assessed the goodness of fit for the models. Results: The ranges of Msum, Mbpv, and Micv were 0.8-160.9 ml, 0.2-13%, and 0.0-11.6%, respectively. The Gompertz model was the best fit for the three parameters. For developmental model analysis of myelin partial volume in each brain region, the Gompertz model was the best-fit model for pons ( R = 74.6%), middle cerebeller peduncle ( R = 76.4%), putamen (R = 95.8%), and centrum semiovale ( R = 77.7%). The logistic model was the best-fit model for the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum ( R = 79.7-93.6%), thalamus ( R = 81.7%), and frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital white matter ( R = 92.5-96.5%). Conclusions: Multiparametric quantitative MRI depicts the normal developmental pattern of myelination in children. It is a potential tool for research studies on pediatric brain development evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although voice commerce using voice assistants (VA) in shopping is burgeoning, little is known about the effect of the manner of interaction with VAs in shopping. To fill this gap, this study applied the concept of message interactivity by investigating the key factors that influence intention to use VAs embedded in smart speakers for online shopping. Specifically, we analyzed consumers' responses to the adoption of VAs with the mediating variable, such as social presence and performance risk as well as the moderating variable, machine heuristic using a lab experiment (N = 62). Our results showed that individuals who experienced contingent conversations with Alexa reported greater feelings of social presence, and less perceptions of performance risk. Moreover, these social presence and performance risk mediated the effect of message interactivity on perceived usefulness, which in turn, predicted the intention to use a VA for an online commerce platform. These results also suggested that voice commerce platforms can increase the positive impact of message interactivity by amplifying machine heuristic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Media systems that personalize their offerings keep track of users' tastes by constantly learning from their activities. Some systems use this characteristic of machine learning to encourage users with statements like "the more you use the system, the better it can serve you in the future." However, it is not clear whether users indeed feel encouraged and consider the system to be helpful and beneficial, or begin to worry about jeopardizing their privacy in the process. We conducted a between-subjects experiment (N = 269) to find out. Guided by the HAII-TIME model (Sundar, 2020), we examined the effects of both explicit and implicit cues on the interface which conveyed that the machine is learning. Data indicate that users consider the system to be a helper and tend to trust it more when the system is transparent about its learning, regardless of the quality of its performance and the degree of explicitness in conveying the fact that it is learning from their activities. The study found no evidence to suggest privacy concerns arising from the machine disclosing that it is learning from its users. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of deploying machine learning cues to enhance user experience of AI-embedded systems. • When a system is transparent about its learning (machine learning cue), users consider the system as a helper. • When users perceive an AI system to be a helper, their frustration is low and they express more trust in the system. • Machine learning cue is effective regardless of the system's performance and explicitness of the cue. • No evidence to suggest that machine learning cue evokes privacy concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the outcomes of partially covered self-expandable metallic stent (SEMS) placement with surgical gastrojejunostomy (GJ) in patients with gastroduodenal obstruction caused by pancreatic cancer. Methods: The medical records of 107 patients with gastroduodenal obstruction caused by pancreatic cancer who underwent fluoroscopic partially covered SEMS placement ( n = 75) or surgical GJ ( n = 32) at our institution were reviewed. Results: The technical (100% vs. 100%; P > 0.999) and clinical (98.7% vs. 96.9%; P = 0.511) success rates were similar between the SEMS and GJ group. The mean gastric outlet obstruction scoring system score was higher in the SEMS group at 1 week after treatment (2.3 ± 0.5 vs. 1.2 ± 0.4; P < 0.001) but was similar between the two groups at 1 month (2.7 ± 0.5 vs. 2.8 ± 0.5; P = 0.242). The median hospital stay was shorter in the SEMS group than in the GJ group (7 vs. 14 days; P < 0.001). The overall complication (22.7% vs. 28.1%; P = 0.547) and reintervention (21.3% vs. 25.0%; P = 0.677) rates were similar between the two groups. The median patency (99 vs. 138 days; P = 0.102) and survival (106 vs. 140 days; P = 0.245) were also similar between the two groups. Conclusion: The outcomes of partially covered SEMS placement seem to be more favorable than surgical GJ in patients with gastroduodenal obstruction caused by pancreatic cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is among the most common types of gastrointestinal cancers and has a high incidence and mortality around the world. To suppress the progression of GC, it is essential to develop diagnostic markers. MicroRNAs regulate GC development, but a clearer insight into their role is needed before they can be applied as a molecular markers and targets. Methods: In this study, we assessed the diagnostic value of differentially expressed microRNAs as potential diagnostic biomarkers for GC using data for 389 tissue samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and 21 plasma samples from GC patients. Results: The expression of hsa-miR-143-3p (also known as hsa-miR-143) was significantly downregulated in GC according to the TCGA data and plasma samples. The 228 potential target genes of hsa-miR-143-3p were analyzed using a bioinformatics tool for miRNA target prediction. The target genes correlated with extracellular matrix organization, the cytoplasm, and identical protein binding. Furthermore, the pathway enrichment analysis of target genes showed that they were involved in pathways in cancer, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)–protein kinase B (Akt) signaling pathway, and proteoglycans in cancer. The hub genes in the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, were matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), CD44 molecule (CD44), and SMAD family member 3 (SMAD3). Conclusions: This study suggests that hsa-miR-143-3p may be used as a diagnostic marker for GC, contributing via the pathways involved in the development of GC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we propose a protection scheme using a superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) for the power transmission system with Thyristor Controlled Series Capacitor (TCSC). TCSC can lead effectiveness such as power flow control, increase in transmission capacity, and improvement for system transient phenomena. But, because this has same effect to the reducing series impedances in transmission system, there are serious problem such as increase in fault current, transient stability deterioration and series voltage stress of TCSC in the transmission line. The proposed protection scheme using the SFCL into TCSC configuration can mitigate these problems. In addition, SFCL can be expected to protect the TCSC from a large transient current generated by lightning or switching surge in power transmission system. To verify the effect of the proposed protection scheme, PSCAD/EMTDC is used. From simulation result, we had good results for fault current limitation and insulating protection of TCSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) may induce cognitive decline and dementia, however, the pathophysiological mechanisms are poorly understood. Objective: We sought to determine the relationship between vitamin D deficiency and neuronal integrity in cognitively impaired patients. Methods: One hundred nine patients with memory impairment were divided into quartiles according to serum concentrations of 25OHD concentration, from lowest (L-25OHD) to highest (H-25OHD). The diffusion tensor images from the L-25OHD group and the H-25OHD group were assessed. A mask of regional white matter hyperintensities was obtained in the T1-weighted image space. Data were analyzed using tract-based spatial statistics with a nonlinear registration algorithm. Results: Patients in the L-25OHD group had lower fractional anisotropy values compared with patients in the H-25OHD group in the frontal parts of the inferior and superior longitudinal fasciculi, cingulum bundle, corpus callosum (genu), anterior limb of the internal capsule, and anterior corona radiata (familywise error corrected, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with disruption of neuronal integrity, primarily in frontal regions. Vitamin D deficiency may lead to the loss of neuroprotective properties in cerebral ischemia and vascular lesions, contributing to memory impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unintentional arc faults due to damaged power line cords and loose connections can cause serious fires; thus, they are a safety hazard in residential areas. Therefore, arc fault circuit interrupters are being increasingly used in homes to protect against arcs that may cause fires. In this paper, we analyzed the ignition characteristics of series arcs on the basis of load current. Furthermore, we recommended suitable arc clearing times through characteristics analysis in the Korean residential electric environment. We determined the arc clearing time via the carbonized path arc clearing time test using an ultraviolet signal detecting system according to the test method of the UL 1699 standard. In the experiments, heat-resistant indoor PVC insulated (HIV) wires, which is a type of residential electrical wire, were used as the wire specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study is to compare the number of retrieved lymph nodes according to lymph node stations in laparoscopy-assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) of the early experience of a new surgeon with that in open distal gastrectomy (ODG). Materials and Methods: From May 2008 to August 2012, clinicopathologic data of gastric cancer patients subjected to LADG or ODG at a single institution by one surgeon were retrospectively reviewed. The surgeries were stratified as follows: early LADG (initial 30 LADGs), late LADG, and ODG. Station-specific counts of lymph nodes retrieved served for group comparisons. Results: Gender distribution (male:female ratio) was not different among the three groups (early LADG, 16:14; late LADG, 19:4; and ODG, 38:30). Mean lymph node retrieval in the early and late LADG groups (39.1 and 45.6, respectively) fell significantly below that of the ODG group (53.0) ( P<.001). Compared with the ODG group, fewer station-specific lymph nodes were retrieved via LADG, both early (stations 3, 8a, and 11p) and late (station 11p). Conclusions: Surgeons inexperienced in LADG for gastric cancer should be particularly diligent in lymph node dissection at stations 3, 8a, and 11p. Even with more experience (>30 LADGs), lymph node dissection at station 11p merits special attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective removal of 137Cs+ ions from contaminated groundwater and seawater and from radioactive nuclear waste solutions is crucial for public health and for the continuous operation of nuclear power plants. Various 137Cs+ removers have been developed, but more effective 137Cs+ removers are still needed. A novel microporous vanadosilicate with mixed-valence vanadium (V4+ and V5+) ions is now reported, which shows an excellent ability for Cs+ capture and immobilization from groundwater, seawater, and nuclear waste solutions. This material is superior to other known materials in terms of selectivity, capacity, and kinetics, and at very low Cs+ concentrations, it was found to be the most effective material for the removal of radioactive Cs+ ions under the test conditions. This novel vanadosilicate also contains hexadeca-coordinated Cs+ ions, which corresponds to the highest coordination number ever described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective removal of 137Cs+ ions from contaminated groundwater and seawater and from radioactive nuclear waste solutions is crucial for public health and for the continuous operation of nuclear power plants. Various 137Cs+ removers have been developed, but more effective 137Cs+ removers are still needed. A novel microporous vanadosilicate with mixed-valence vanadium (V4+ and V5+) ions is now reported, which shows an excellent ability for Cs+ capture and immobilization from groundwater, seawater, and nuclear waste solutions. This material is superior to other known materials in terms of selectivity, capacity, and kinetics, and at very low Cs+ concentrations, it was found to be the most effective material for the removal of radioactive Cs+ ions under the test conditions. This novel vanadosilicate also contains hexadeca-coordinated Cs+ ions, which corresponds to the highest coordination number ever described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Predicting the invasion depth of superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SESCC) is important when selecting among therapeutic strategies. The aim of this study was to compare magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging (ME-NBI) with endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) for predicting the depth of tumor invasion in patients with SESCC. Methods. This study enrolled 51 patients with SESCC (52 SESCC lesions) who underwent both ME-NBI and EUS at Pusan National University Hospital during 2010-2013. We reviewed the patients' medical records and compared ME-NBI and EUS findings with histopathological results according to clinicopathological factors. Results. A total of 46 lesions in 45 patients were included in the final analysis. ME-NBI and EUS had overall accuracies of 76.1% and 84.8%, respectively, in distinguishing mucosal from non-mucosal cancers. There were no differences between ME-NBI and EUS in terms of sensitivities and specificities in distinguishing mucosal from non-mucosal cancers ( p = 0.500 and p = 0.688, respectively). When both ME-NBI and EUS suggested a mucosal depth of lesion invasion, the frequency of mucosal cancer in the final histopathology was 94%. However, if either ME-NBI or EUS suggested a non-mucosal depth of invasion, the frequency of mucosal cancer was only 21%. Conclusion. ME-NBI and EUS are accurate predictors of SESCC invasion depth. If both methods suggest a mucosal depth of lesion invasion, the accuracy of the prediction is increased. Therefore, when possible, it would be better to evaluate the invasion depth of SESCC using both ME-NBI and EUS before deciding to perform endoscopic resection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating illness that results in progressive cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The neuropsychiatric symptoms are associated with a rapid decline in cognition and activities of daily living and increased mortality, however the neuroanatomical localisation involved in the development of neuropsychiatric symptoms remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to identify the association with the regional volume of the insular cortex and each neuropsychiatric symptom in patients with AD. Methods: Subjects diagnosed with AD (n = 40) were evaluated. Magnetic resonance images were obtained and the insular cortex was subdivided into four subregions through the central sulcus of the insula and bilaterally: right anterior insular cortex, right posterior insular cortex, left anterior insular cortex and left posterior insular cortex. The neuropsychiatric symptoms were assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. A partial correlation analysis was performed. Results: A significant negative correlation existed between apathy, the irritability subscale score and the volume ratio of the bilateral anterior insular cortex and right posterior insular cortex (r = -0.457, -0.433 and -0.572, respectively, p = 0.032, 0.044 and 0.005, respectively). Conclusion: The findings suggest that the regional atrophy of the insular cortex is associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD patients. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Vertically aligned mesoporous carbon nanotubes (MCTs) filled with Co3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) were fabricated by a dual template method; a hard template-assisted sol–gel process. The Co3O4/MCT electrode was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. The data indicate that the Co3O4 NPs are dispersed uniformly on the inside surface of the MCT. As an anode material for a Li ion battery, the resulting electrode shows a high reversible capacity of about 627mAhg−1 after the 50th discharge. The improved electrochemical performance of Co3O4/MCT can mainly be attributed to the small-size Co3O4 NPs and the rapid diffusion of Li-ions induced by the three-dimensional structure of the MCT. The Co3O4/MCT electrode has the potential for use as a high-performance anode electrode for Li-ion batteries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

During dissection, the tumor was tightly attached to the proper muscle layer; therefore, a clip attached with dental floss was deployed to secure the dissection plane between the tumor and muscle layer (Fig. Histopathologically, the cystic lesion was lined with columnar epithelial mucosa and had its own muscle layer, and ectopic pancreatic tissue of acinar structure was present in the cystic wall (Fig. 3 A clip attached with dental floss was deployed to secure the dissection plane between the tumor and the muscle layer. [Extracted from the article]

• Proposing political fandom as a new concept for public segmentation. • Political fandom is about the relationship between publics and political figures. • Scale development for a new measurement for political fandom. • Publics' political participation varies by the level of political fandom. • Political fandom promotes political information seeking/sharing. This study suggests the association between individual and political figures as a fan–celebrity relationship and provides a scale of political fandom as a new criterion for public segmentation. While political fans are important stakeholders of political organizations and political figures, little is known about who political fans are and how they participate in political activities. To address this gap, the differences between political fans and enthusiastic partisans are explained using six dimensions, namely, worship, identification, loyalty, playing, investment, and fan community engagement. Building on these dimensions, this study examined the impact of perceived charms of a political figure on political fans by surveying Korean participants. This study further explored political fans' tendency to participate in politics as well as information seeking and sharing. Following the results, implications for public and stakeholder relations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subepithelial tumors (SETs) in the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract are frequently discovered during upper endoscopy, and their management is determined based on size and histopathological diagnosis. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of endoscopic ultrasonography-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) in upper GI SETs of 2–5 cm in size. Methods: We included 63 patients who underwent EUS-FNB for upper GI SETs of 2–5 cm in size between January 2013 and February 2020. The diagnostic yield of EUS-FNB, ability of EUS-FNB in discriminating malignant from non-malignant lesions, and histopathological concordance between EUS-FNB specimens and resected specimens were evaluated. Results: Successful acquisition of macroscopic tissue cores was possible in all 63 cases, and the diagnostic yield of EUS-FNB was 92.1% (58/63). The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of EUS-FNB in discriminating malignant from non-malignant lesions were 100% (95% confidence interval [CI] 85.3–100%), 87.8% (95% CI 79.9–87.8%), and 92.1% (95% CI 81.8–92.1%), respectively. Of the 26 SETs that were endoscopically or surgically resected after EUS-FNB, the histopathological concordance rate between the EUS-FNB specimens and resected specimens was 100% (24/24), except in two cases of inadequate results with EUS-FNB specimens. Conclusion: EUS-FNB provides high diagnostic yield and high capability in discriminating malignant from non-malignant lesions in upper GI SETs of 2–5 cm in size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between loss of white matter cholinergic pathways, atrophy of the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM), and cognitive function in patients with subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD) or Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS: The participants included 26 SIVD, 17 probable AD with or without white-matter changes, and 20 age-matched healthy controls. Thin-section coronal T2-weighted images were acquired using 3.0 T MR. The extent of white matter hyperintensities within cholinergic pathways were assessed using the cholinergic pathways hyperintensities scale (CHIPS). NBM atrophy was assessed from the thickness of the substantia innominata (SI) at the level of the crossing of the anterior commissure. Cognitive impairment was measured using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR). Correlations between CHIPSs, SI thickness, and cognitive impairment were evaluated using the Spearman ranked correlation test. RESULTS: In AD, MMSE scores and CDR were correlated with SI thickness (ρ = 0.450, p = 0.006 and ρ = -0.520, p = 0.030, respectively) but not with CHIPS scores (ρ = -0.160, p = 0.530 and ρ = 0.270, p = 0.292, respectively). By contrast, aggravated MMSE score and CDR in SIVD had a tendency to correlate with elevated CHIPS scores (ρ = -0.344, p = 0.127 and ρ = 0.521, p = 0.021, respectively) but not with SI thickness (ρ = -0.210, p = 0.480 and ρ = 0.080, p = 0.736, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Loss of cholinergic pathways correlates with cognitive dysfunction in both AD and SIVD. The mechanisms appear to differ: NBM atrophy is likely to be the predominant contributor to cognitive impairments in AD, whereas, the cognitive dysfunction of SIVD was associated with compromised subcortical cholinergic fibers not with nucleus itself. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relativistic Dirac coupled channel analyses using optical potential model are performed for the 800 MeV proton inelastic scatterings from 26Mg and the results are compared with those from several other axially symmetric deformed nuclei for the systematic Dirac analyses. Employing scalar-vector model, scalar and time-like vector optical potentials in Lorentz covariant form are calculated phenomenologically by solving Dirac coupled channel equations using sequential iteration method. Dirac equations are reduced to second-order differential equations to obtain Schrödinger equivalent effective central and spin-orbit optical potentials and it is found that the heavier deformed nucleus has the larger effective central potential strength. Using the first-order rotational collective model to describe the low-lying excited states of ground state rotational band in the deformed nuclei, deformation parameters for the excited states are calculated and it is observed that the lighter deformed nucleus has the larger deformation parameter for the lowest lying excited 2+ state at the 800 MeV proton inelastic scattering, indicating the stronger coupling to the ground state compared to that of heavier nucleus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We hypothesized that methyl-guanine methyl transferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status, a predictor of the chemosensitivity for high grade gliomas (HGGs), may be associated with computed tomography (CT)/magnetic resonance (MR) imaging variables. Methods: Out of 38 consecutive patients with HGGs, 24 patients whose MGMT promoter methylation status was available [12 men and 12 women; median age, 49 years; age range, 22-79 years; WHO grade III ( n = 7), WHO grade IV ( n = 17)] were enrolled retrospectively. CT attenuation, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), fractional anisotropy (FA), and relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) were measured for enhancing tumors. Qualitative imaging features were also analyzed. Mann-Whitney and Fisher's exact tests were used to evaluate relationships between MGMT promoter methylation status and imaging variables. Results: Maximum CT attenuation was significantly lower in the methylated MGMT promoter group than that in the unmethylated MGMT promoter group (30.3 ± 9.5 HU versus 39.2 ± 4.7 HU, respectively, p = 0.009). While ADC values tended to be higher in the methylated group than in the unmethylated group ( p = 0.055), ADC ratio was significantly higher, and the FA and FA ratios were significantly lower in the methylated group than in the unmethylated group ( p = 0.032, p = 0.006 and p = 0.007, respectively). In contrast, rCBV ratio did not differ between the two groups ( p = 0.380). Regarding imaging features, only ill-defined margin was seen more frequently in the methylated group than in the unmethylated group (45.5% versus 7.7%, respectively, p = 0.048). Conclusion: Preoperative imaging can predict MGMT promoter methylation status, which is of paramount importance for predicting treatment response to chemotherapy with an alkylating agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Maruyama computer program predicts the percentage likelihood of disease in lymph node stations left undissected by a surgeon, according to the age and sex of the patient and the gross type, size, location, depth of invasion, and histology of the tumor. The Maruyama index (MI) is defined as the sum of the predictions of the percentage likelihood of disease in undissected regional lymph node station (station 1–12). It has been shown that an MI < 5 is a strong predictor of survival and that the MI is an independent predictor of overall survival and relapse risk. We used the MI to evaluate the adequacy of lymph nodes dissection in pylorus-preserving gastrectomy (PPG) for early gastric cancer (EGC) performed at Seoul National University Hospital. From March 2003 to September 2007, PPG was performed for patients with EGC of the middle third of the stomach when the distal resection margin was greater than 2 cm and preservation of 3 cm antral segment was possible. MIs and pathologic data such as TNM stage and the presence of metastatic lymph node for each station were reviewed. PPG were performed on 24 patients. The mean age of the patients was 55 years. The median tumor size was 2.1 cm. The median and mean MI were 0 and 0.8, respectively. There were 23 cases of T1N0M0 tumor and one case of T2N0M0 tumor postoperatively. There were no recurrences (mean follow-up period: 27.2 months). The MI indicates that lymph node dissection during PPG performed in these 24 patients was adequate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A section of jointed concrete pavement on U.S. 75, which was built from 1982 to 1985, in the Paris District of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) experienced severe pumping and settlement, even though two types of treatment (full depth repair and polyurethane foam injection) were performed. An extensive field investigation was conducted using ground penetrating radar, falling weight deflectometer, dynamic cone penetrometer, and coring to identify the causes of the continued pumping and settlement problems, and develop an optimal repair strategy. The pavement evaluation included tie bar condition, load transfer efficiency (LTE) at transverse and longitudinal construction joints, and base support conditions. Some of the tie bars failed in shear due to corrosion, which resulted in substantially low LTEs (<40%) at longitudinal construction joints. Pumping and settlement problems were more pronounced where the tie bars failed; the resulting large deflections exacerbated the pumping and settlement problems. The results demonstrate the importance of adequate LTEs (>80%) provided by tie bars, base and subgrade support, in providing satisfactory JCP performance. Inadequate design or construction of any of these critical elements could lead to performance problems, potentially including severe settlement, which is quite difficult to repair. To repair this pavement section, the Paris District of TxDOT is planning to retrofit tie bars by the “slot stitching” method, along with filling the voids under the slab using grout, followed by thin overlay using latex modified concrete to correct the differential elevation problems at longitudinal construction joints. It is expected that this repair strategy will address the distress problems and extend the pavement life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spalls and wide cracks represent functional and structural distresses in portland cement concrete pavement. Traditionally, these distresses were repaired by partial depth repair (PDR). The performance of PDR varies substantially. Two types of polymeric patch materials, Material-A and Material-B, were used to repair spalls and cracks. Material-A was used to repair spalls in continuously reinforced concrete pavement. It provided quite satisfactory performance for more than 6 years. Material-B was used to repair cracks in jointed concrete pavement. Its performance was satisfactory when applied to stable slabs. Compared with full-depth repair (FDR), PDRs utilizing polymeric patch materials is much more cost effective, and PDR takes much less time than FDR. It was found that chip-and-patch method would work as well as saw-and-patch method as long as the repair limits include all the delaminated areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]