OBJECTIVE: Although some sporadic reports reveal the link between the homeobox (HOX) genes and ovarian carcinoma, there is no comprehensive analysis of the expression pattern of the class I homeobox genes in ovarian carcinoma that determines the candidate genes involved in ovarian carcinogenesis. METHODS: The different patterns of expression of 36 HOX genes were analyzed, including 4 ovarian cancer cell lines and 4 normal ovarian tissues. Using a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and quantification analysis, the specific gene that showed a significantly higher expression in ovarian cancer cell lines than in normal ovaries was selected, and western blot analysis was performed adding 7 ovarian cancer tissue specimens. Finally, immunohistochemical and immunocytochemical analyses were performed to compare the pattern of expression of the specific HOX gene between ovarian cancer tissue and normal ovaries. RESULTS: Among 36 genes, 11 genes had a different level of mRNA expression between the cancer cell lines and the normal ovarian tissues. Of the 11 genes, only HOXB4 had a significantly higher level of expression in ovarian cancer cell lines than in normal ovaries (p=0.029). Based on western blot, immunohistochemical, and immunocytochemical analyses, HOXB4 was expressed exclusively in the ovarian cancer cell lines or cancer tissue specimens, but not in the normal ovaries. CONCLUSION: We suggest HOXB4 may be a novel candidate gene involved in ovarian carcinogenesis.
Aluminum Hydroxide ; Blotting, Western ; Carbonates ; Cell Line ; Female ; Genes, Homeobox ; Ovarian Neoplasms ; Ovary ; RNA, Messenger

Background: This study presents a framework for determining the allocation and distribution of the limited amount of vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Methods: After analyzing the pandemic strategies of the major organizations and countries and with a literature review conducted by a core panel, a modified Delphi survey was administered to 13 experts in the fields of vaccination, infectious disease, and public health in the Republic of Korea. The following topics were discussed: 1) identifying the objectives of the vaccination strategy, 2) identifying allocation criteria, and 3) establishing a step-bystep vaccination framework and prioritization strategy based on the allocation criteria. Two rounds of surveys were conducted for each topic, with a structured questionnaire provided via e-mail in the first round. After analyzing the responses, a meeting with the experts was held to obtain consensus on how to prioritize the population groups. Results: The first objective of the vaccination strategy was maintenance of the integrity of the healthcare system and critical infrastructure, followed by reduction of morbidity and mortality and reduction of community transmission. In the initial phase, older adult residents in care homes, high-risk health and social care workers, and personal support workers who work in direct contact with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients would be prioritized. Expansion of vaccine supply would allow immunization of older adults not included in phase 1, followed by healthcare workers not previously included and individuals with comorbidities. Further widespread vaccine supply would ensure availability to the extended adult age groups (50–64 years old), critical workers outside the health sector, residents who cannot socially distance, and, eventually, the remaining populations. Conclusion This survey provides the much needed insight into the decision-making process for vaccine allocation at the national level. However, flexibility in adapting to strategies will be essential, as new information is constantly emerging.

Background: This study presents a framework for determining the allocation and distribution of the limited amount of vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Methods: After analyzing the pandemic strategies of the major organizations and countries and with a literature review conducted by a core panel, a modified Delphi survey was administered to 13 experts in the fields of vaccination, infectious disease, and public health in the Republic of Korea. The following topics were discussed: 1) identifying the objectives of the vaccination strategy, 2) identifying allocation criteria, and 3) establishing a step-bystep vaccination framework and prioritization strategy based on the allocation criteria. Two rounds of surveys were conducted for each topic, with a structured questionnaire provided via e-mail in the first round. After analyzing the responses, a meeting with the experts was held to obtain consensus on how to prioritize the population groups. Results: The first objective of the vaccination strategy was maintenance of the integrity of the healthcare system and critical infrastructure, followed by reduction of morbidity and mortality and reduction of community transmission. In the initial phase, older adult residents in care homes, high-risk health and social care workers, and personal support workers who work in direct contact with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients would be prioritized. Expansion of vaccine supply would allow immunization of older adults not included in phase 1, followed by healthcare workers not previously included and individuals with comorbidities. Further widespread vaccine supply would ensure availability to the extended adult age groups (50–64 years old), critical workers outside the health sector, residents who cannot socially distance, and, eventually, the remaining populations. Conclusion This survey provides the much needed insight into the decision-making process for vaccine allocation at the national level. However, flexibility in adapting to strategies will be essential, as new information is constantly emerging.