• Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
• /
• v.13 no.5
• /
• pp.2101-2107
• /
• 2012

Treatment responses of $N_0$ stage nasopharyngeal carcinoma were firstly analyzed comprehensively to evaluate long term outcomes of patients and identify prognostic factors. A total of 610 patients with $N_0$ NPC, undergoing definitive radiotherapy to their primary lesion and prophylactic radiation to upper neck, were reviewed retrospectively. Concomitant chemotherapy was administrated to 65 out of the 610. Survival rates of the patients were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by log-rank test. Prognostic factors were identified by the Cox regression model. The study revealed the 5-year and 10-year overall, disease-free, disease-specific, local failure-free, regional failure-free, locoregional failure-free and distant metastasis-free survival rates to be 78.7% and 66.8%, 68.8% and 55.8%, 79.9% and 70.4%, 81.2% and 72.5%, 95.8% and 91.8%, 78.3% and 68.5%, 88.5% and 85.5%, respectively. There were 192 patients experiencing failure (31.5%) after radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. Of these, local recurrence, regional relapse and distant metastases as the first event of failure occurred in 100 (100/610, 16.4%), 15(15/610, 2.5%) and 52 (52/610, 8.5%), respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that T stage was the only independent prognostic factor for patients with $N_0$ NPC (P=0.000). Late T stage (P=0.000), male (P=0.039) and anemia (P=0.007) were independently unfavorable factors predicting disease-free survival. After treatment, satisfactory outcome wasgenerally achieved in patients with $N_0$ NPC. Local recurrence represented the predominant mode of treatment failure, while T stage was the only independent prognostic factor for overall survival. Late T stage, male gender, and anemia independently predicted lower possibility of the disease-free survival.

• Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow
• /
• v.16 no.2
• /
• pp.163-169
• /
• 2013

Designs of total elbow arthroplasty have been evolving with clinical experiences. Newer implants are expected to resolve current limitations and improve long term outcomes. This review article focuses on the basic knowledge of unlinked and convertible total elbow arthroplasty. There have been a variety of designs of unlinked total elbow prostheses. Some implants are still used in the market, while others are no longer commercially available. Modified and newer designs include more congruent contact surface, stemmed implant, and radiocapitellar arthroplasty. Two convertible elbow prostheses have been developed, and one implant is currently available in Korea. Conversion from an unlinked to a linked mode is performed by adding a linking cap. Unlinked total elbow arthroplasty, which restores native elbow kinematics, has a biomechanical rationale of lowering polyethylene wear and loosening of implants. It can be indicated in younger and higher demand patients, who have adequate bone stock and soft tissues. Convertible total elbow arthroplasty broadens implant selection and simplifies revision surgery. These newer prostheses possibly improve the long term outcomes and resolve disadvantages of linked prostheses in total elbow arthroplasty.

• Journal of Ginseng Research
• /
• v.34 no.2
• /
• pp.77-88
• /
• 2010

Ginseng has been reported to reduce the risk of cancer in diverse organs, including the lip, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, lung, liver, pancreas, ovary, colon, rectum, and stomach, as demonstrated in clinical and epidemiological studies. studies, base on which findings, Panax ginseng has been classified as a "non-organ-specific cancer preventive." However, the recent keen interest in traditional medicinal herbs has been frequently questioned, about exact mode of action and the use of panaceic compounds has been a prime issue discussed in terms of complementary and alternative medicine. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have shown the mitigating effects of Korean red ginseng on Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)-associated atrophic changes and carcinogenesis; However, evidence-based medicine, consisting of large-scale or well designed clinical studies, is still warranted whether Korean red ginseng is to be recognized as an essential therapeutic strategy regarding a "H. pylori-associated gastric cancer preventive." Specifically, comprehensive clinical trials of Korean red ginseng are needed to demonstrate that mucosal regeneration in patients with atrophic gastritis is feasible using Korean red ginseng supplements after the eradication of H. pylori infection. Ginseng is a good example of a natural herb and its ubiquitous properties may include the reduction or delay of inflammation carcinogenesis. Korean red ginseng contains ample amounts of active ginsenosides and we have demonstrated their effects in in vitro and in vivo studies with positive outcomes. In this review, the quantitative and qualitative benefits of Korean red ginseng in the treatment of H. pylori infection are described.

• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
• /
• v.85 no.2
• /
• pp.179-195
• /
• 2023

The performance of reinforced concrete (RC) beam specimens strengthened using a newly proposed Side Near Surface Mounted (S-NSM) technology was investigated experimentally in this work. In addition, analytical and nonlinear finite element (FE) modeling was exploited to forecast the performance of RC members reinforced with S-NSM utilizing steel bars. Five (one control and four strengthened) RC beams were evaluated for flexural performance under static loading conditions employing four-point bending loads. Experimental variables comprise different S-NSM reinforcement ratios. The constitutive models were applied for simulating the non-linear material characteristics of used concrete, major, and strengthening reinforcements. The failure load and mode, yield and ultimate strengths, deflection, strain, cracking behavior as well as ductility of the beams were evaluated and discussed. To cope with the flexural behavior of the tested beams, a 3D non-linear FE model was simulated. In parametric investigations, the influence of S-NSM reinforcement, the efficacy of the S-NSM procedure, and the structural response ductility are examined. The experimental, numerical, and analytical outcomes show good agreement. The results revealed a significant increase in yield and ultimate strengths as well as improved failure modes.

• Journal of the Ergonomics Society of Korea
• /
• v.36 no.1
• /
• pp.9-21
• /
• 2017

Objective: The objective of this study is to understand the effect of angle and curvature of push-return switches, which are external factors in the operation environment inside the cars, on the feel of operation and to propose optimum alternatives. Background: Customers' needs for products are changing from functional and performance aspects to customer-led type where customers can reflect on their needs on the products. The operation inside cars is executed by HMI. The push-return switch is utilized as the most intuitive mode of HMI; therefore, this push-return switch, which is widely used, has to be developed by assessing the preference and satisfaction of the customer. Method: The angle and curvatures, which are external factors that affect the feel of operation, are drawn through surveying the preceding research literatures. The stages to construct alternatives in experiments are as follows: (1) the tactile switch is replaced after dismantling the switch assembly to evaluate the internal characteristics proposed by preceding researches, (2) a drawing is prepared by using a design software, is printed using 3D printer, and then it is attached on the switch assembly, and (3) evaluation for satisfaction of operation is carried out by using a driving simulator. Results: Both the angle and curvature that are external factors of switch significantly affect the feel of operation. However, interaction between the two factors is found insignificant. Therefore, an optimum alternative is proposed considering the experimental outcomes. Conclusion: This study evaluates the satisfaction in operation that affects the feel of operation environment inside the cars. Based on the study results, a guideline for switch design in the center fascia is proposed. Application: This study is expected to be used as basic data for designing automotive switches, as well as switches in the industries similar with the operation environments of cars.

• Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing
• /
• v.41 no.4
• /
• pp.558-567
• /
• 2011

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to monitor the use of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) instruments in Korean studies of patients with diabetes. Methods: Of 86 Korean studies initially identified, 17 studies met the inclusion criteria. For each study, a description of the instrument and its psychometric properties were monitored by the Instrument Review Criteria of the Scientific Advisory Committee. These criteria include conceptual definition, attributes, taxonomy, reliability, validity, responsiveness, administrative mode, and language adaptations. Results: Five generic and one diabetes specific type questionnaires were identified from the 17 studies. Of those studies, conceptual definitions with the attributes of multi-dimension and subjectiveness were provided for 11 studies (71%). In the analysis of conceptual taxonomy, only 6 studies were classified as HRQOL, while other studies were done as QOL or health status. In monitoring of psychometric properties, reliability, validity, and responsiveness were reported for 88.2%, 64.7%, and 29.4%, respectively. One generic instrument was developed with a Korean population, while the other instruments were developed for Western countries. However, language adaptations were performed for only a few of the instruments. Conclusion: The psychometric properties including responsiveness of most instruments warrants further research, and the development of diabetes-specific HRQOL measurements should be sought to facilitate intervention outcomes across Korean studies of patients with diabetes.

• Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
• /
• v.14 no.8
• /
• pp.4693-4697
• /
• 2013

Background: Malignant transformation arising in mature cystic teratoma (MCT) is one of the most serious complications of MCT. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignant change. Some clinical findings such as advanced age group and large tumor size are significant risk factors of malignant transformation. This study was conducted in order to evaluate characteristics, cell types, treatment and outcome of malignant transformation arising from dermoid cysts in our institution. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed. General characteristics, operative data, procedure, operative finding and operative outcome were analyzed. Statistical assessment was performed with SPSS version 17.0, using mean, mode, median and percentage to describe those data. Results: During the 10 years period, 11 cases of malignant transformation from a total of 753 cases (1.46% incidence) of MCT were reviewed. Mean age of the patients was 41.2 years (SD 4.34, range 24-70). The most common presenting symptom was a palpable mass (8 cases; 72.7%). Primary surgical staging was performed in 4 patients (36.4%). Re-staging was conducted in the other 4. Complete cytoreduction was obtained in 45.5% (5 cases) and optimal surgical resection was obtained in 36.4% (4 cases). Mean tumor size was 14.1 cm. (SD 1.55, range 6-20). Squamous cell carcinoma was found in 36.4% (4 cases) and mucinous cancer in the other 4. More than half of them were stage Ia (54.5%, 6 cases). All patients whose stage more than Ia received chemotherapy (45.5%). Mean disease free survival was 5.53 years (1.32, 0.3-10). Conclusion: According to our study, the incidence of malignant transformation was consistent with previous studies. The common malignant transformation histologic types are both squamous and mucinous carcinoma which differed from previous reports. Early detection for early stage disease and optimal surgery are important for long term survival.

• Journal of the Korean Home Economics Association
• /
• v.34 no.4
• /
• pp.327-343
• /
• 1996

The objective of this study were 1) to determine the stages of concern of HE teachers about the practical problem-based curriculum approach, as illustrated by the Ohio's Work and Family Life Curriculum (W&FLC); 2) to determine the relationships between home economics (HE) teacher's stages of concern about W&FLC and personal and professional characteristics of HE teachers; and 3) to determine aspects of interest about the practical problem-based curriculum approach, such as the Ohio W&FLC. Respondents in this study were 225 HE teachers. The data were collected during the in-service teacher training sessions after presentation about W&FLC. Concerns Based Adoption Model (CBAM) was modified to provide a conceptual framework for this study. Frequencies, SD, mean, mode, range were used to determine the stages of concern of HE teachers. To determine the relationships between stages of concerns and personal and professional characteristics of HE teachers, coefficient of Chi-Square contingency tables was used. Content analysis was used to determine aspects of interest about the practical problem-bsed curriculum approach, such as W&FLC. The median of the stages of HE teachers' concerns about W&FLC was Stage 1, Information Stage. About 60% of HE teachers were interested in learning more details about W&FLC. Chi-square revealed no statistically significant relationships between stages of concerns about W&FLC and characteristics of HE teachers. Content analysis was used to determine aspects of interest about W&FLC of HE teachers. Nine categories were found: content, teaching strategies, implementation of the curriculum, philosophical framework, how to adopt W&FLC, resource materials, students' outcomes, in-service teacher training, and HE teacher organization. The majority of HE teachers were interested in relationships with family and others, resource management, family relationships, personal development, communication skill, family life, creating a self-identity, life planning, roles of family members, homemaking management, child care, and parenting.

• Neonatal Medicine
• /
• v.25 no.2
• /
• pp.78-84
• /
• 2018

Purpose: To investigate the hemodynamic risk factors for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), we analyzed the characteristics of descending aorta (DA) blood flow in preterm neonates, who later developed NEC. Methods: This was an observational case-control study on 53 preterm neonates at a tertiary referral center. Clinical and echocardiographic data were collected from 23 preterm neonates with NEC (NEC group), and compared with those of 30 preterm neonates without NEC (control group). Echocardiography was done at a median (interquartile range) of 5 (3-9) days after birth and 2 (1-2.5) days before the diagnosis of NEC. Results: Basic clinical characteristics including gestational age, birth weight, Apgar score, breast feeding status, use of umbilical catheters, and mode of invasive ventilator care were similar between the groups. Compared with the control group, the lowest diastolic velocity of DA was significantly decreased, whereas the diastolic reverse flow and the ratio of diastolic reverse to systolic forward flows were significantly increased in the NEC group. In addition, the resistive index (RI) of DA was significantly increased in the NEC group and showed a positive association with the development of NEC. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that increasing RI of DA was an independent risk factor for the development of NEC (P=0.008). Conclusion: Significant changes in DA flow characteristics including decreased diastolic velocity and increased diastolic reverse flow along with increased peripheral vascular resistance were observed before the development of NEC in preterm neonates. These findings may help clinicians stratify in advance neonates at a risk of developing NEC and may help improve outcomes in these neonates.

• Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
• /
• v.14 no.7
• /
• pp.4061-4066
• /
• 2013

The extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL) shows high local or systemic failure rates when radiotherapy (RT) is taken as the primary treatment, suggesting a role for chemotherapy (CT) added to RT for this disease. However, the appropriate mode of combined modality therapy (CMT) has not been fully defined. A total of one hundred and twenty-one patients with ENKTL receiving sandwich CT with RT were reviewed between January 2003 and August 2012. The primary endpoints were the response rate, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and the relapse rate. After the initial CT, there were 84 (69.4%) patients in CR, 22 (18.2%) patients in PR, 9 (7.4%) patients in SD, and 6 (5%) patients in PD, respectively. At the end of RT, the CR, PR, SD, and PD rates for all patients were 90.9% (n=110), 1.7% (n=2), 4.1% (n=5), and 3.3% (n=4), respectively. After a median follow-up of 42.3 months (3.5~112.3 months), the 5-year PFS was 74.7% (95% CI 70.4%~79.0%), and 5-year OS was 77.3% (95% CI 67.9%~86.7%). Disease progression was documented in 25 (20.7%) patients. The rates of systemic failure, local failure, and regional failure were 18.2%, 5.8%, 1.7%, respectively. Twenty death events (16.5%) were observed for the entire group of patients (18 deaths related to PD). Furthermore, CR to the initial CT and low Korean Prognostic Index (KPI) can independently predict long PFS and OS. The sandwich CMT achieved an excellent outcome for localized ENKTL with acceptable toxicity. We recommend it can be applied as the optimal choice for localized ENKTL.