• Journal of The Korean Society of Emergency Medicine
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• v.29 no.6
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• pp.624-635
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• 2018

Objective: This study examined whether emergency department (ED) crowding influences the timing of the initial assessment and treatment in severe trauma patients, as well as their mortality rates. Methods: This retrospective, observational study was conducted between January 2015 and October 2016, and included adult severe trauma patients who presented to the ED. The emergency department occupancy rate (EDOR) was used to measure ED crowding. The patients were divided into four groups using the EDOR quartile. The timeliness of the initial assessment and treatment in the four groups as well as the mortality rates were compared. Results: This study investigated 307 patients. The timing of the first computed tomography (CT) and laboratory test order, CT and laboratory test result acquisition, first transfusion, and patient transfer from the ED to the operating room were similar in the four groups. Multivariable logistic regression analysis did not show a significant difference in mortality between the groups. Conclusion: ED crowding was not associated with delays in the initial assessment and treatment of severe trauma patients, or in their mortality rates.

• Journal of The Korean Society of Emergency Medicine
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• v.29 no.6
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• pp.679-686
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• 2018

Objective: The aim of this study was to identify the clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with the admission of patients in the emergency department (ED) within 30 days after discharge. Methods: A retrospective, observational study was conducted on adult patients presenting with abdominal pain to the ED of a single, urban, university hospital, between January 2014 and December 2015, who revisited the ED within 30 days after discharge. Data was collected on the emergency severity index level, time to contact doctors, physical examination, laboratory tests, use of computed tomography (CT), and patient disposition on revisitation. The primary outcome was hospital admission following an ED revisit in the 30-day period after the first visit. Results: During the study period, 19,480 patients visited the ED with the chief complaint of abdominal pain, and 13,577 were discharged. A total of 251 patients (1.29%) revisited the ED within 30 days, of which 89 were eligible for the study. The primary outcome was associated with not performing a CT scan on the initial visit and an increased C-reactive protein (CRP) value. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that a cut-off baseline CRP value of >0.35 mg/dL can predict the primary outcome with a sensitivity and specificity of 75% and 62.1%, respectively (area under the curve, 0.701; 95% confidence interval, 0.569-0.833; P=0.007). Conclusion: An increased CRP value and not performing abdominal CT were associated with a higher rate of admission following ED revisits of patients with abdominal pain. Future prospective studies on the role of abdominal CT imaging in patients presenting to the ED with abdominal pain will be needed.

• Clinical and Molecular Hepatology
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• v.24 no.4
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• pp.384-391
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• 2018

Backgrounds/Aims: The objective of our study was to determine the epidemiological, laboratory, and serological characteristics of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and normal transaminases. The study also aimed to evaluate liver damage by measuring the liver fibrosis (LF) grade and to identify possible factors associated with the presence of fibrosis. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted in patients with chronic HBV infection and classified as inactive carriers or immune-tolerant. Epidemiological variables of age, sex, immigrant, alcohol consumption, and body mass index (BMI), as well as virological variables (HBV DNA) and transaminase level were collected throughout the follow-up. The LF grade was evaluated by transient elastography. The cutoff value for significant fibrosis (SF) was liver stiffness ${\geq}7.9kPa$. Results: A total of 214 patients were included in the analysis, and 62% of them had a BMI ${\geq}25kg/m^2$. During follow-up, 4% of patients showed transaminase elevation (<1.5 times normal). Most patients had a viral DNA level <2,000 IU/mL (83%). Data on LF were available in 160 patients; of these, 14% had SF, 9% F3, and 6% F4. The variables associated with the presence of SF were transaminase alteration during follow-up, as 23% of patients with SF had elevated transaminases versus 3% of patients without SF (P<0.005), and BMI, as the vast majority of patients with SF (88%) had a BMI ${\geq}25kg/m^2$ versus 56% of patients without SF (P<0.05). Conclusions: In patients with chronic HBV infection and normal transaminases, liver damage does not seem to be related to DNA levels, alcohol consumption, or immigrant status. SF seems to be associated with transaminase alteration during follow-up and elevated BMI. It is therefore recommended to measure LF grade with validated non-invasive methods in such patients.

• Atmosphere
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• v.31 no.2
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• pp.241-249
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• 2021

A smart city utilizes data collected from various sensors through the internet of things (IoT) and improves city operations across the urban area. Recently substantial research is underway to examine all aspects of data that requires for the smart city operation. Atmospheric data are an essential component for successful smart city implementation, including Urban Air Mobility (UAM), infrastructure planning, safety and convenience, and traffic management. Unfortunately, the current level of conventional atmospheric data does not meet the needs of the new city concept. New and innovative approaches to developing high spatiotemporal resolution of observational and modeling data, resolving the complex urban structure, are expected to support the future needs. The geographic information system (GIS) integrates the atmospheric data with the urban structure and offers information system enhancement. In this study we proposed the necessity and applicability of the high resolution urban meteorological dataset based on heavy fog cases in the smart city region (e.g., Sejong and Pusan) in Korea.

• Journal of Korea Water Resources Association
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• v.54 no.6
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• pp.365-379
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• 2021

Hydrological model parameters are essential for model simulation and can vary over time due to topography, climatic conditions, climate change and human activity. Consequently, the use of fixed parameters can lead to inaccurate stream flow simulations. The aim of this study is to investigate an appropriate method of estimating time-varying parameters using stream flow observations, and how the simulation efficiency changes when stream flow data are assimilated into the model. The data assimilation method can be used to automatically estimate the parameters of a hydrological model by adapting to a variety of changing environments. Stream flow observations were assimilated into a two parameter monthly water balance model using a particle filter. The simulation results using the time-varying parameters by the data assimilation method were compared with the simulation results using the fixed parameters by the SCEM method. First, we conducted synthesis experiments based on various scenarios to investigate if the particle filter method can adequately track parameters that change over time. After that, it was applied to actual watersheds and compared with the predictive performance of stream flow when using parameters that change with time and fixed parameters. The conclusions obtained through this study are as follows: (1) The predictive performance of the overall monthly stream flow time series was similar between the particle filter method and the SCEM method. (2) The monthly runoff prediction performance in the period except the rainy season was better in the simulation by the periodically changing parameters using the data assimilation method. (3) Uncertainty in the observational data of stream flow used for assimilation played an important role in the predictive performance of the particle filter.

• Clinical and Experimental Otorhinolaryngology
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• v.11 no.4
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• pp.281-287
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• 2018

Objectives. Regenerative treatment using stem cells may serve as treatment option for empty nose syndrome (ENS), which is caused by the lack of turbinate tissue and deranged nervous system in the nasal cavity. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of the autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) in the treatment of ENS. Methods. In this prospective observational clinical study, we enrolled 10 ENS patients who volunteered to undergo treatment of ENS through the injection of autologous SVF. Data, including demographic data, pre- and postoperative Sino-Nasal Outcome Test-25 (SNOT-25) scores, overall patient satisfaction, and postoperative complications, were prospectively collected. Nasal secretion was assessed using the polyurethane foam absorption method, and the levels of biological markers were analyzed in both ENS group and control group using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The SVF extracted from abdominal fat was diluted and injected into both inferior turbinates. Results. Among the 10 initial patients, one was excluded from the study. Subjective satisfaction was rated as "much improved" in two and "no change" in seven. Among the improved patients, the mean preinjection SNOT-25 score was 55.0 and the score at 6 months after injection was 19.5. However, the average SNOT-25 score of nine participants at 6 months after injection (mean${\pm}$standard deviation, $62.4{\pm}35.8$) did not differ significantly from the baseline SNOT-25 score ($70.1{\pm}24.7$, P>0.05, respectively). Among the various inflammatory markers assessed, the levels of interleukin $(IL)-1{\beta}$, IL-8, and calcitonin gene-related peptide were significantly higher in ENS patients. Compared with preinjection secretion level, the nasal secretions from SVF-treated patients showed decreased expressions of $IL-1{\beta}$ and IL-8 after injection. Conclusion. Although SVF treatment appears to decrease the inflammatory cytokine levels in the nasal mucosa, a single SVF injection was not effective in terms of symptom improvement and patient satisfaction. Further trials are needed to identify a more practical and useful regenerative treatment modality for patients with ENS.

• Korean Journal of Acupuncture
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• v.37 no.4
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• pp.209-230
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• 2020

Objectives : Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs), collaborations of practitioners and academic researchers, have provided platforms for conducting research to address clinical questions generated from daily routine care. This review aimed to critically analyse articles from PBRNs that are related to complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) and to suggest future directions for a PBRN which is appropriate for Korean Medicine (KM). Methods : PubMed, PBRN registries in Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and relevant PBRN websites were searched up to November 2019 for research articles from PBRNs that focused on CIM regardless of study design. Methodological quality of the included studies was assessed. The included studies were read in full, classified and summarised according to their topics. Results : A total of 51 articles published from 1998 through 2020 were included in this review. They were categorised into three principal themes based on research questions and findings: health services research (embracing researches examining characteristics of patients and CIM practitioners/practices, and communication between patients and practitioners); effectiveness and safety of CIM practices/interventions; and feasibility studies of instruments and interventions in PBRN settings. The study designs varied including surveys (n=30), prospective observational studies (n=6), 2ndary analyses of existing studies (n=7), protocols (n=7), retrospective chart review (n=1) and qualitative study (n=1). Quality of the included studies greatly varied. Conclusions : PBRNs can serve as a feasible platform for conducting practice-relevant research on KM and CIM. Considering growing demands on evidence-base for routine practice of KM amid various stakeholders, a PBRN in KM community and further researches nested within PBRN designs are warranted.

• Publications of The Korean Astronomical Society
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• v.35 no.3
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• pp.29-41
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• 2020

Korea has numerous astronomical resources, such as observational records, star maps, and a wealth of literature, covering the period from the Three Kingdoms (54 BC - 932 AD) to the Joseon Dynasty (1392 - 1910 AD). The research activities related to these resources have been limited to those by individual researchers. It is now necessary to conduct research by efficiently and systematically collecting and managing Korean astronomical records using an accessible Web environment. The purpose of this study is to complete a system that enables researchers systematically to collect and verify a large number of historical records related to astronomical phenomena in a Web environment. In 2017, a preliminary survey was conducted, and the requirements pertaining to an implementation target system were devised. In addition, a joint development plan was carried out by the developer, lasting three months in 2018. Although the system is relatively simple, it is the first system to be attempted in the historical astronomy field. In order to proceed with the systematic development, the software development methodology is applied to the entire process from deriving the requirements of researchers to completing the system. The completed system is verified through integrated function and performance tests. The functional test is repeated while modifying and testing the system based on various test scenarios. The performance test uses a performance measurement test tool that takes measurements by setting up a virtual operation environment. The developed system is now in normal operation after a one-year trial period. Researchers who become authorized to use the system can use it to verify the accuracy of data and to suggest improvements. The collected feedback will be reflected in future systems, and Korean astronomical records will be available for use internationally through a multilingual service.

• Journal of Korean Medicine Rehabilitation
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• v.31 no.1
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• pp.81-93
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• 2021

Objectives The objective of the study was to investigate effects of ChondroT by improvement of blood metabolites in high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hyperlipidemia rat model. Methods Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to intact, control, simvastatin, and CT100, CT200 and CT400 (each n=6). For observing cholesterol change, animals were first fed high fat diet for 5 weeks and then high fat diet and drugs for 3 weeks. At the end of the experiment, total cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) were analyzed by obtained blood collection. Further, amplified leptin, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) and adiponectin DNA were observed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis. Results Observing the effect of ChondroT on the change of lipid metabolism in hyperlipidemia-induced rats, triglyceride and total cholesterol were significantly decreased in SV100 group, HDL-C was significantly increased in SV100, CT100 and CT200 groups, and LDL-C was significantly decreased in SV100, CT100, CT200 and CT400 groups, compared to the control group. Leptin level in hyperlipidemia-induced rats was significantly decreased in CT100 and CT200 groups, compared to the control group. The effect of ChondroT on adiponectin level in hyperlipidemia-induced rats was significantly increased in SV100, CT100 and CT200 groups. PPAR level in hyperlipidemia-induced rats was significantly decreased in SV100, CT200 and CT400 groups. Platelete activating factor level in hyperlipidemia-induced rats was significantly decreased in CT100 and CT200 groups. Conclusions Based on these results, it could be suggested that ChondroT has certain effects of improving blood metabolites in HFD-induced hyperlipidemia.

• Journal of The Korea Institute of Healthcare Architecture
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• v.27 no.1
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• pp.45-51
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• 2021

Purpose: Problems related to the elderly's daily life, such as social isolation and absence of a place to go, are already widely recognized, but there are few domestic studies or support policies for this, and the elderly leisure welfare facilities provided by the state do not fully support the elderly's daily life. There are studies related to the elderly's neighborhood environment and facilities, which can be seen as the third place for the elderly in Korea, but these are mostly quantitative studies. In order to talk about the third place for daily support for the elderly in Korea, a detailed study of the use cases of the third place in Korea is needed. This study analyzes the third place of the elderly in Korea and discovers the characteristics and components. Based on the detailed analysis of the third place of the elderly, the characteristics of the third place of the elderly in Korea and the elements constituting it are found to be able to represent the specific necessary environment of the third place of the elderly. Methods: The research targets include 'A Mill' (located in Jungnang-gu, Seoul), and 'Roadside in front of Villa B'(located in Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul), 'C-dong roadside park'(located in Dobong-gu, Seoul) within the range of repeated observations and meetings among the places used as a third place for the elderly was selected. The site survey consisted of in-depth interviews, observational surveys, and participatory observations. In-depth interviews were held for a total of 5 months, from October to December 2019 and from April to May 2020. Results: As a result, a total of 11 characteristics (adjacent to the residence, an open place, an independent space, a comfortable place to stay, a pleasant space, safety is guaranteed, a place that has been operated for a long time, a place that can be used autonomously, a place where social exchange occurs, No financial burden, fun activities) was discovered. Implications: This study is significant in that unlike the existing studies focusing on the use behavior of established institutions or facilities, the elderly identified the necessary environment through their own created places.