• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.44 no.3
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• pp.611-620
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• 1997

Objectives : The differentiation of tuberculous effusion from the other causes of exudative pleural effusion remained difficult even with aids of biochemical analyses and pleural biopsy. As the pathophysiology of tuberculous pleural effusion is an enhanced cell mediated immunity, Adenosine deaminase(ADA) and various eytokines including Inteferon-$\gamma$, tumor necrosis factor alpha(TNF-$\alpha$) are considered as useful diagnostic tools in differentiating exudative pleural effusion. The author would like to demonstrate the diagnostic usefulness of TNF-$\alpha$ in the differentiation of exudative pleural effusion, and compared the discriminating ability of TNF-$\alpha$ with ADA. Methods : Pleural fluids obtained from 80 patients (tuberculous : 39, malignant : 31, parapneumonic : 10) with exudate pleural effusions were processed for cell counts and biochemical analysis including ADA and TNF-$\alpha$. Results : Tuberculous pleural fluid showed higher levels of ADA and TNF-$\alpha$, $48.7{\pm}32.7U/L$ and $184.1{\pm}214.2pg/mL$ than that of non-tuberculous effusion $26.0{\pm}41.3U/L$ and $44.1{\pm}114.2pg/mL$, respectively (ADA, TNF-$\alpha$, p < 0.05, p < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristics(ROC) curves were generated for ADA and TNF-$\alpha$ and the best cut-off value for adenosine deaminase and TNF-$\alpha$were considered as 30U/L and 15pg/ml, respectively. Comparing the area under the ROC curves, there was no significant difference between ADA and TNF-$\alpha$. Conclusion : For the differential diagnosis of tuberculous pleural effusion from the other causes of exudative pleural effusions, TNF-$\alpha$ as well as ADA was considered as useful diagnostic method. However adding TNF-$\alpha$ to ADA has no further diagnotic benefit than ADA alone.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.45 no.5
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• pp.992-999
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• 1998

Background: To correlate the emphysema score for quantification of the overall extent of emphysema in both lungs by CT with physiologic fingings and to get more objective and simple method to assess the extent of emphysema. Method: Thin-section CT and pulmonary function test(PFT) were performed in 17 patients with emphysema (all males, mean age, 62 years). Emphysema score was obtained as percentage of emphysematous lung area, dividing the total area of the emphysema(voxels with attenuation value less than -880, -900, -920HU, respectively) by the overall area of both lungs(voxels with attenuation value less than -400HU) with highlighting voxels using "Density mask" program. Emphysema score was calculated from whole lung(ESV) and 5 representative scans(ESR) using "Density mask", Visual emphysema score(ESV) was obtained by visual assessment from 5 representative scans. Correlation of these emphysema scores(ESW, ESR, ESV) and physiologic findings were performed, comparing the ESW with ESR and ESV. Results: ESW had correlation with DLCO(r=0.53-0.64) and $FEV_1/FVC$(r=0.42-0.57) among PFT parameters. ESR had good correlation with ESW and with PFT parameters as well. ESV did not correlate with PFT parameters except DLCO. Conclusion: CT quantification of emphysema using "density mask" correlated well with physiologic findings. To assess the severity of emphysema, both ESW and ESR are more reliable than ESV, and ESR is recommended in routine practice as it is objective, simple and reliable.

• Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases
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• v.58 no.4
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• pp.359-366
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• 2005

Background : IGFBP-3 inhibits the mitogenic and anti-apoptotic activity of IGF by blocking the binding of IGF to its receptor. However, under certain circumstances, IGFBP-3 can enhance the activity of IGF by protecting IGF from its degradation. More than half of the interindividual variations in IGFBP-3 levels are known to be genetically determined by the polymorphism at -202 locus of IGFBP-3 gene. Method : We attempted to ascertain whether A-202C polymorphic variation of IGFBP-3 gene constitutes a risk factor for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Our study included 104 NSCLC patients and 104 age-, gender-, and smoking status-matched control subjects. Result : In the 104 NSCLC subjects, the genotypic frequencies at the -202 site were as follows: AA = 67 (64.4%), AC = 35 (33.7%), and CC = 2 (1.9%). We did detect significant differences in the genotypic distribution between the NSCLC and the control subjects (p<0.05), and the NSCLC risk correlated significantly with AA genotype at the -202 locus (AA>AC>CC). Using CC genotype as a reference, the odds ratio (OR) for the subjects with AC genotype was 2.60 (95% CI: 0.89 - 8.60), and the OR associated with AA genotype was 5.89 (95% CI: 1.92 - 21.16). Conclusion : These results indicate that the dysregulation of IGF axis should now be considered as another important risk factor for NSCLC, and a potential target for novel antineoplastic therapies and/or preventative strategies in high-risk groups.

• The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics
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• v.48 no.1
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• pp.28-40
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• 2010

Purpose: The aim of this retrospective study was to provide long-term data about the correlation between multifactorial local factors and the survival of implants. Material and methods: During 19 years (1991 to 2009), 2796 implants were placed in 879 patients. From dental charts and radiographs, the following data were collected: patient's age at implant placement, gender, implant system, surface, length, diameter, location of implant placement, bone quality, primary stability, type of prosthesis. The correlations between these data and implant survival were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, Chi-square test, odds ratio. Results: 1. Among the 2796 implants, 150 implants failed that resulted in a cumulative survival rate of 94.64%. The cumulative survival rate of smooth surface implants (91.76%) was lower than rough surface implants (96.02%). 2. Anatomic location, implant surface, diameter of smooth surface implant, primary stability, type of prosthesis, patient's age and gender were significantly associated with implant survival (P < .05). 3. No significant difference in implant survival was found in relation to the following factors: implant length, bone quality, diameter of rough surface implants and type of rough surface according to implant manufacturer (P < .05). Conclusions: Local factors such as anatomic location, implant surface, diameter of smooth surface implant, primary stability and type of prosthesis have a significant effect on implant survival.

• Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow
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• v.12 no.1
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• pp.61-66
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• 2009

Purpose: Several authors have reported excellent results of delayed reconstruction of non-union & malunion in displaced mid-shaft fractures of the clavicle and these results were equal to that of immediate fixation. But direct comparison between these treatments is rare. We evaluated the results between the immediate fixation group and delayed reconstruction group for treating displaced mid-shaft fractures of the clavicle. Materials and Methods: We studied the results of 18 cases with immediate fixation of displaced mid-shaft fractures of the clavicle and 15 cases with delayed reconstruction of non-union & malunion after conservative management, and these cases were seen from March 2000 to February, 2006. The final postoperative outcome was analyzed according to the clinical outcomes with using the Constant score and the radiological findings of bony union. Results: The constant score was low in the delayed reconstruction group compare to that of the immediate fixation group (p value=0.045). For the pain score & the activities of daily living score, a statistically significant difference was seen between the two groups (p<0.05), but not for the range of motion score & the power score (p>0.05). Radiological findings of bony union were seen for both groups at an average of 8.8 weeks for the immediate fixation group and at an average of 9.8 weeks for the delayed reconstruction group. Conclusion: Though the delayed reconstruction group was shown good clinical and radiological results, the immediate fixation group had a significantly better pain score, a better activities of daily living score and a better Constant score. It is important to choose the initial treatment option for displaced mid-shaft fractures of the clavicle after sufficient explanation to patients about the merits and demerits between these two treatment options.

• Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow
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• v.12 no.1
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• pp.53-60
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• 2009

Purpose: Primary osteoarthritis on the elbow is the result of the growth of osteophytes and contracture of the capsule. It often causes disability on joint motion and pain while exercising. As arthroscopy has developed, the arthroscopic diagnosis and treatment of the elbow have recently become more generalized as well. Therefore, we like to report on arthroscopy for treating elbow arthritis and its results. Materials and Methods: This study includes 23 cases of elbow arthritis that were seen between 2005 June to 2007 June and these patients didn't response to conservative treatment. From this we excluded 18 cases that underwent arthroscopic surgery and among these 18 cases, 6 cases underwent ulnar nerve transfer. The average observation time was 21.3 months and the average age was 48.4 years (range: 22-66 years). The pre and post operative pain was evaluated with using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and functional evaluation was done with using the Mayo elbow Performance Score (MEPS) with the range of joint motion. Results: The VAS score at the last follow up was significantly decreased from 3.4 to 1.9 compare to the preoperative score. The range of joint motion was improved by 25 (0-40) to 8.5 (0-20) in extension and 101.7 (80-140) to 125.2 (85-140) in flexion (p<0.05). The MEPS always showed significant improvement by showing an increase from 65.4 (40-85) to 87.9 (55-100). However, 3 cases showed a decreased range of motion after the operation. One case showed ulnar nerve symptoms after surgery. Conclusion: An arthroscopic procedure can treat the pathologic processes associated with arthritis of the elbow and it was safe and effective in this series.

• Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow
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• v.12 no.2
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• pp.159-166
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• 2009

Purpose: We wanted to evaluate the surgical results of early mobilization after rigid fixation of small coronoid fracture using the tension band technique Materials and Methods: Eight cases of coronoid fracture were fixed with the tension band technique and using K-wire and wire through the medial approach. All the cases were Regan-Morrey type 2. According to O'Driscoll, they were classified as 5 cases of the tip type (subtype 2) and 3 cases of the anteromedial type (1 case of subtype 2, and 2 case of subtype 3). The associated collateral ligament injuries (6 cases) and radial head/neck fractures (4 cases) were managed simultaneously. After immobilization for 5~7 days, active ROM exercise with a fitted hinge brace started and continued till postoperative 6 weeks. The patients were assessed for pain, ROM and functional disability using the Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) at an average of 11 months (range: 6~28 months). The ulnar nerve symptoms were also investigated. Results: We observed solid union in all the coronoid fractures without hardware failure. An average of 2.2 wires (range: 2~4) were used. The mean extension was $3^{\circ}$(range: $0^{\circ}\sim25^{\circ}$), the mean flexion was $137^{\circ}$(range: $130^{\circ}\sim140^{\circ}$), the mean pronation was $69^{\circ}$(range: $45^{\circ}\sim90^{\circ}$) and the mean supination was $78^{\circ}$(range: $45^{\circ}\sim90^{\circ}$). The mean MEPS was 96 (range: 65~100). Ulnar nerve symptoms occurred at postoperative one day and persisted in one patient with the terrible triad of taking radial head excision and residual medial instability. Conclusion: The tension band technique uses easily obtained, economic K-wires and the wire was strong enough to permit early elbow ROM exercise and the technique might improve the elbow function. It was especially useful for fixation of multiple small fragments.

• Journal of radiological science and technology
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• v.39 no.1
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• pp.51-57
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• 2016

Acoustic noise during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the main source for patient discomfort. we report our preliminary experience with this technique in neuroimaging with regard to subjective and objective noise levels and image quality. 60 patients(29 males, 31 females, average age of 60.1) underwent routine brain MRI with 3.0 Tesla (MAGNETOM Tim Trio; Siemens, Germany) system and 12-channel head coil. Q-$T_2$ and $T_2$ sequence were performed. Measurement of sound pressure levels (SPL) and heart rate on Q-$T_2$ and $T_2$ was performed respectively. Quantitative analysis was carried out by measuring the SNR, CNR, and SIR values of Q-$T_2$, $T_2$ and a statistical analysis was performed using independent sample T-test. Qualitative analysis was evaluated by the eyes for the overall quality image of Q-$T_2$ and $T_2$. A 5-point evaluation scale was used, including excellent(5), good(4), fair(3), poor(2), and unacceptable(1). The average noise and peak noise decreased by $15dB_A$ and $10dB_A$ on $T_2$ and Q-$T_2$ test. Also, the average value of heartbeat rate was lower in Q-$T_2$ for 120 seconds in each test, but there was no statistical significance. The quantitative analysis showed that there was no significant difference between CNR and SIR, and there was a significant difference (p<0.05) as SNR had a lower average value on Q-$T_2$. According to the qualitative analysis, the overall quality image of 59 case $T_2$ and Q-$T_2$ was evaluated as excellent at 5 points, and 1 case was evaluated as good at 4 points due to a motion artifact. Q-$T_2$ is a promising technique for acoustic noise reduction and improved patient comfort.

• Journal of Chest Surgery
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• v.31 no.9
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• pp.884-892
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• 1998

Background: The gastroepiploic artery is not only an alternative graft but also may be considered an important primary graft for coronary revascularization. However, the long-term patency of the gastroepiploic arterial graft is yet to be determined and the incidence of perioperative spasm and long-term patency of a coronary graft may be affected by the properties of the graft response to certain vasoactive substances. The reactivity of the gastroepiploic artery to vasoactive substances has not been studied extensively and the results of the studies are contradictory. Material and Method: This study was designed to test the reactivity of human gastroepiploic artery to four constrictors and four relaxants. The middle sections of the human gastroepiploic arteries were collected from the patients undergoing gastrectomy and the arterial rings with intact endothelium were suspended in organ baths for isometric tension recording. Result: Epinephrine, norepinephrine, and potassium chloride induced the maximum constriction to higher forces (7.0$\pm$1.1g, 6.6$\pm$0.9g, and 6.5$\pm$1.1g) than 5-hydroxytryptamine did (3.8$\pm$1.7g, p<0.05). Nitroprusside and histamine induced almost full relaxation in the gastroepiploic arteries preconstricted with norepinephrine. There was no significant difference between two relaxants regarding maximum relaxation force. Acetylcholine induced the maximum relaxation to weaker force when compared with nitroprusside and histamine (p<0.05), and isoproterenol was the weakest of the relaxants (p<0.05 compared with acetylcholine). Conclusion: The gastroepiploic artery has a strong capacity of endothelium-dependent relaxation which could have an important influence on long-term patency. The gastroepiploic artery exhibits a potent contractility to catecholamines and the enhanced contractility may facilitate vasospasm in the presence of high circulating levels of catecholamines. Nitroprusside, a potent relaxant in gastroepiploic artery, might be beneficial for the treatment of gastroepiploic arterial graft spasm. The gastroepiploic arterial graft with intact endothelium may respond weakly to beta-adrenoceptor agonist and 5-hydroxytryptamine.

• Radiation Oncology Journal
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• v.9 no.2
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• pp.303-310
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• 1991

Nineteen patients with previously untreated invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix were treated by irradiation alone at the Keimyung University Hospital from January, 1990 to July, 1991. The serial samplings of the tissue taken before and during radiation of the uterine cervix were studied by light and electron microscopic examination. Radiation-induced cellular changes, particularly nuclear degeneration was pronounced. The tumor invasion pattern remained unchanged but the number of mitosis and tumor cells decreased, The number of infiltrating inflammatory cells, multinucleated giant cells and karyolytic cells were increased with radiation. Fibrosis was also increased. Electron microscopically, the amount of tonofilament in the tissue samplings was increased in the postirradiated state, but the desmosomes were decreased in numbers. Fibroblasts began to appear after an irradiation dose of 2700 cGy. After an irradiation dose of 3000 cGy or more, tumor cells were nearly completely degenerated and displaced with mature fibrotic tissue. There was an increase of activated fibroblasts and collagen fibers but a decrease of inflammatory cells in the interstitial tissue. Swelling of the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, loss of intercellular bridges and an increased number of secondary lysosomes were also found with radiation.