1.Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Anti-Cancer Effects of Tangeretin, a Phytochemical from Citrus Extracts
Seung-Hyeon AHN ; Kyung-Chul CHOI
Biomolecules & Therapeutics 2026;34(2):279-290
Cancer is one of the diseases with high incidence and mortality rates. As a result, many studies have led to the development of therapeutic agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, the research on cancer treatment is still essential because of problems including drug resistance, genetic variation among patients, and drug toxicity. To address these problems, several candidate chemicals, including phytochemicals, have been studied for cancer treatment. Phytochemicals exhibit a variety of biochemical and physiological functions in the body and have been studied as having lower toxicity than synthetic chemicals. These properties have led to research into their potential as anti-cancer agents as well as their therapeutic applications for a variety of other diseases. The structural diversity of phytochemicals leads to considerable variations in their mechanisms of action. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanism of action of each phytochemical when studying phytochemicals. Tangeretin (TAN) is mainly extracted from citrus fruits and is characterized by the presence of a methyl group. The presence of a methyl group in TAN is thought to enhance its intracellular uptake and confer greater resistance to degradation compared with other phytochemicals.Previous studies on the use of TAN in cancer treatment have mainly focused on its ability to induce oxidative stress as the primary anti-cancer mechanism. In addition, some studies suggest that TAN also exerts various other anti-cancer effects, such as upregulating tumor suppressor proteins, inducing apoptosis, and reducing the proportion of cancer stem cells (CSCs). This review highlights the anti-cancer effects of TAN in different cancers and aims to provide data to support future research.
3.Optimizing pediatric liver transplantation allocation: a simulation study on new splittable deceased donor criteria in Korea
Yuyoung OH ; Nam-Joon YI ; Kyung Chul YOON ; Su young HONG ; Suk Kyun HONG ; Kwang-Woong LEE ; YoungRok CHOI
Clinical Transplantation and Research 2026;40(1):68-75
Background:
We analyzed the status of organ distribution in pediatric deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT) in Korea. Additionally, we estimated how many pediatric patients could have avoided living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) or survived if new criteria for splittable deceased donors were adopted. Based on the findings, we advocate expanding policy to promote the universal adoption of split liver transplantation (SLT).
Methods:
Using the Korean Network for Organ Sharing database, we identified patients who underwent DDLT between January 2000 and December 2020. We considered “po-tential splittable donors” those with a donor-to-recipient weight ratio of ≥1.0 who met the existing SLT criteria (age 10–40 years; weight ≥50 kg). By comparing the numbersof pediatric LDLT recipients and potential splittable donors annually, we estimated how many patients might have avoided LDLT if the left lateral section of each splittable liver had been allocated to a child. Additionally, we compared the number of deaths on the DDLT waiting list with the number of potential splittable donors to estimate possibly preventable deaths.
Results:
Overall, we identified 640 potential splittable donors. Over the 20-year period, 1,210 pediatric patients (<19 years old) received LDLT. If potentially splittable livers had been split, this number could have been nearly halved. Furthermore, 127 patients died while on the DDLT waiting list. Using SLT with potential splittable donors, these deaths might have been prevented.
Conclusions
SLT could reduce avoidable deaths among pediatric patients while decreasing the economic and social burden of LDLT, without compromising survival for adult DDLT recipients.
4.Comparative survival outcomes of surgical resection versus radiotherapy after FOLFIRINOX in borderline resectable and locally advanced pancreatic cancer
Jiwon YU ; Jeong Ha LEE ; Hyunju SHIN ; Hee Chul PARK ; Joon Oh PARK ; Jung Yong HONG ; Minsuk KWON ; Ji Eun SHIN ; Kyu Taek LEE ; Kwang Hyuck LEE ; Jong Kyun LEE ; Joo Kyung PARK ; Young Hoon CHOI ; Jin Seok HEO ; In Woong HAN ; Sang Hyun SHIN ; Hongbeom KIM ; Ji Hye MIN ; Jeong Il YU
Precision and Future Medicine 2026;10(1):39-50
Purpose:
This study evaluated the clinical outcomes and prognostic factors in patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC) and locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) treated with upfront FOLFIRINOX followed by local-regional therapy (LRT), surgical resection (SR), and radiotherapy (RT). We aimed to identify specific patient subgroups for which RT may serve as a reasonable alternative to SR for local tumor control.
Methods:
We retrospectively analyzed 116 patients (SR group, n= 70; RT group, n= 46) at a single center between 2015 and 2020. Survival outcomes were compared based on LRT modalities, focusing on identifying subgroups in which RT provided an efficacy comparable to that of SR.
Results:
Among 116 patients, the SR group achieved a significantly higher 5-year overall survival (OS) than the RT group (27.1% vs. 8.7%, P< 0.0001), despite similar progression-free survival (P= 0.23). Significant prognostic factors for OS included carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) response in BRPC (P= 0.02) and radiologic partial response in LAPC (P= 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed that, while SR provided a survival advantage in CA19-9 responders, no significant difference in OS was observed between SR and RT in CA19-9 non-responders (P= 0.37).
Conclusion
Although surgery remains the gold standard, RT may be considered a justifiable local alternative for CA19-9 non-responders and surgically ineligible patients with LAPC, yielding comparable outcomes in these specific, biologically unfavorable subgroups.
5.Effect of scan body geometric configuration and library design on digital implant impression accuracy
Hong Seok MOON ; Ahreum CHOI ; Kyung Chul OH ; Minji SUN ; Jaeyoung KIM
The Journal of Advanced Prosthodontics 2026;18(1):55-66
PURPOSE:
. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate how variations in scan body geometry, specifically body height and the length of the flat indexing surface (FIS), affect linear and angular accuracy when combined with truncated or full-geometry library files.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
. Nine scan body geometries were fabricated by combining three body heights (4, 5, and 6 mm) with three FIS lengths (1, 2, and 3 mm). Digital impressions were superimposed onto truncated or full-geometry library files. Linear deviation (ΔD) and angular deviation (ΔA) were calculated by comparing aligned scan bodies with coordinate measuring machine references. Linear and angular deviations were compared between library types using the Mann–Whitney U test, and differences among body heights and FIS lengths were evaluated using the Kruskal–Wallis test with Dunn’s post-hoc test (α = .05).
RESULTS:
. Linear deviation remained within a comparable range, and most geometry–library comparisons did not show a significant difference from body height, FIS length, or library morphology (P > .05). Angular deviation demonstrated geometry-dependent behavior, increasing only in the 4-mm body paired with larger FIS lengths, particularly when fullgeometry libraries were used. No significant angular differences were observed in the 5-mm or 6-mm body groups.
CONCLUSION
. Digital implant registration remained stable across most configurations. Shortened scan bodies performed reliably when FIS dimensions were preserved. Angular accuracy was more sensitive to geometry-library interactions, with truncated libraries improving stability.
6.Long-Term Incidence of Gastrointestinal Bleeding Following Ischemic Stroke
Jun Yup KIM ; Beom Joon KIM ; Jihoon KANG ; Do Yeon KIM ; Moon-Ku HAN ; Seong-Eun KIM ; Heeyoung LEE ; Jong-Moo PARK ; Kyusik KANG ; Soo Joo LEE ; Jae Guk KIM ; Jae-Kwan CHA ; Dae-Hyun KIM ; Tai Hwan PARK ; Kyungbok LEE ; Hong-Kyun PARK ; Yong-Jin CHO ; Keun-Sik HONG ; Kang-Ho CHOI ; Joon-Tae KIM ; Dong-Eog KIM ; Jay Chol CHOI ; Mi-Sun OH ; Kyung-Ho YU ; Byung-Chul LEE ; Kwang-Yeol PARK ; Ji Sung LEE ; Sujung JANG ; Jae Eun CHAE ; Juneyoung LEE ; Min-Surk KYE ; Philip B. GORELICK ; Hee-Joon BAE ;
Journal of Stroke 2025;27(1):102-112
Background:
and Purpose Previous research on patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has shown a 0.5% incidence of major gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) requiring blood transfusion during hospitalization. The existing literature has insufficiently explored the long-term incidence in this population despite the decremental impact of GIB on stroke outcomes.
Methods:
We analyzed the data from a cohort of patients with AIS admitted to 14 hospitals as part of a nationwide multicenter prospective stroke registry between 2011 and 2013. These patients were followed up for up to 6 years. The occurrence of major GIB events, defined as GIB necessitating at least two units of blood transfusion, was tracked using the National Health Insurance Service claims data.
Results:
Among 10,818 patients with AIS (male, 59%; mean age, 68±13 years), 947 (8.8%) experienced 1,224 episodes of major GIB over a median follow-up duration of 3.1 years. Remarkably, 20% of 947 patients experienced multiple episodes of major GIB. The incidence peaked in the first month after AIS, reaching 19.2 per 100 person-years, and gradually decreased to approximately one-sixth of this rate by the 2nd year with subsequent stabilization. Multivariable analysis identified the following predictors of major GIB: anemia, estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 , and a 3-month modified Rankin Scale score of ≥4.
Conclusion
Patients with AIS are susceptible to major GIB, particularly in the first month after the onset of AIS, with the risk decreasing thereafter. Implementing preventive strategies may be important, especially for patients with anemia and impaired renal function at stroke onset and those with a disabling stroke.
7.Publication Trends in the Official Journals of Pediatric Dentistry Societies from 2004 to 2023
Joon Young KOO ; Yong Kwon CHAE ; Mi Sun KIM ; Ok Hyung NAM ; Sung Chul CHOI ; Hyo-Seol LEE
Journal of Korean Academy of Pediatric Dentistry 2025;52(1):46-60
This study explored the evolving trends in pediatric dentistry research, focusing on the changes in research trends in the Journal of the Korean Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (JKAPD) and comparing them with those in other international journals and previous studies. We selected the JKAPD (Korea), Pediatric Dentistry (PD, USA), European Archives of Paediatric Dentistry (EAPD, Europe), and The Japanese Journal of Pediatric Dentistry (JJPD, Japan) as subjects for this study, as each one is considered the core academic journals of the corresponding region. Data from the four journals were collected by reviewing articles published over 20 years from 2004 to 2023. Sixteen classification criteria were established, and 4,231 papers were assigned a classification number. This study included 1,205 studies from the JKAPD, 1,320 from the PD, 1,070 from the EAPD, and 636 from the JJPD. Publication trends were similar across the pediatric dental journals; however, the JJPD showed no correlation with other journals. Dental caries and prevention of dental caries were the most published topics in all journals (15.4%), followed by systemic diseases or patients with special health care needs (9.9%), conservative treatment and restorative materials (9.2%), and dental growth and developmental disturbances (8.8%). The thematic distribution of articles in the JKAPD observed in this study is consistent with that of previous studies. Although there were regional variations, the distribution of publication trends did not significantly change before or after the 21st century. This study offers valuable insights for comparing and analyzing trends in domestic and international research and providing an opportunity to examine which social and environmental changes have influenced these trends.
8.Efficacy of Automatic Suction-Type Sonic Toothbrush and Manual Toothbrush in Preschool Children: A Randomized, Controlled Crossover Pilot Study
Su Bin LEE ; Yong Kwon CHAE ; Mi Sun KIM ; Ok Hyung NAM ; Hyo-Seol LEE ; Sung Chul CHOI ; Ko Eun LEE
Journal of Korean Academy of Pediatric Dentistry 2025;52(2):181-192
This study investigated the plaque removal efficacy of a suction-type sonic toothbrush compared to a conventional manual toothbrush in preschool children aged 30 to 59 months. Using a randomized, double-blind, crossover design with a 2-week washout period, 20 pediatric participants were allocated to two study phases, each using either the suction-type sonic toothbrush or the manual toothbrush with caregiver assistance. The plaque removal effectiveness was assessed through the Silness and Löe plaque index and quantitative light-induced fluorescence values, including ΔR30 and ΔR120 indicators of plaque index. The result showed no statistically significant differences in plaque removal efficacy between the two toothbrushes, although both showed similar improvements. Caregiver feedback revealed high acceptability of the suction-type sonic toothbrush due to its convenience and engaging features, such as a light and suction function, which enhanced the tooth brushing experience. Although limited by the short follow-up period and small sample size, the findings suggest that suction-type sonic toothbrushes may offer practical benefits for young children requiring caregiver assistance.
9.Part 1. Current Status of Hearing Loss Patients in Korea Using National Data: National Health Insurance Service- Database, 2010 to 2020
Junhun LEE ; Chul Young YOON ; Jiwon KIM ; In-Ki JIN ; Michelle J. SUH ; Wan-Ho CHO ; Hyo-Jeong LEE ; Seong Jun CHOI ; Dongchul CHA ; Kyung Ho PARK ; Soo Hee OH ; Young Joon SEO ; Tae Hoon KONG
Korean Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery 2025;68(1):7-18
Background and Objectives:
Hearing loss significantly affects communication, psychosocial well-being, and quality of life. This study analyzes the National Health Insurance Service database to assess the trends and characteristics of hearing loss in South Korea from 2010 to 2020.Subjects and Method The database encompasses 97% of the Korean population, providing comprehensive data on medical history, prescriptions, and health examinations. The analysis used the World Health Organization’s ICD-10 definitions to categorize hearing loss types and examine their prevalence and incidence across various demographics over 11 years.
Results:
There was an overall annual increase of 4.62% in diagnosed cases of hearing loss, with the most significant rise among the elderly. The rate of increase accelerated from 3.32% between 2010 and 2014 to 6.49% between 2014 and 2020, corresponding with the improved hearing aid access facilitated by policy changes. Women showed a slightly higher increase than men. The data also indicated a consistent rise in abnormal hearing test results during health examinations, especially in older adults.
Conclusion
The study highlights an increasing trend in hearing loss diagnoses, driven by an aging population and enhanced detection facilitated by policy changes. These findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and targeted health policies to manage hearing loss effectively, offering valuable insights for global health management and policy development.
10.Part 2. Current Status of Hearing Disability and Hearing Rehabilitation Devices in Korea Using National Data: NHIS-Database, 2010 to 2020
Junhun LEE ; Chul Young YOON ; Jiwon KIM ; In-Ki JIN ; Michelle J. SUH ; Wan-Ho CHO ; Hyo-Jeong LEE ; Seong Jun CHOI ; Dongchul CHA ; Kyung Ho PARK ; Soo Hee OH ; Young Joon SEO ; Tae Hoon KONG
Korean Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery 2025;68(3):94-104
Background and Objectives:
This study aims to analyze trends in hearing disability and the use of hearing rehabilitation devices (hearing aids and cochlear implants) in South Korea over the past 11 years (2010-2020) using data from the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS).Subjects and Method Data were extracted from the NHIS database, covering approximately 97% of the South Korean population. Patients diagnosed with hearing loss were classified using ICD-10 codes. The data were analyzed to determine trends in hearing disability, hearing aid prescriptions, and cochlear implant usage by age, gender, and types and causes of hearing loss.
Results:
The number of hearing disability patients increased from 170900 in 2010 to 362738 in 2020, with an annual growth rate of 7.95%. The highest increase was observed in the ≥60 age group, with an annual growth rate of 11.04%. Hearing aid prescriptions rose from 4966 in 2010 to 11974 in 2020, showing a 10.45% annual increase. Females showed a higher growth rate in both hearing disability and hearing aid prescriptions compared to males. Cochlear implant prescriptions also increased, particularly among older adults.
Conclusion
The study highlights a significant rise in hearing disability and the use of hearing aids and cochlear implants in South Korea, especially among the elderly. The findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for hearing loss and the need for policy improvements to enhance accessibility and affordability of hearing rehabilitation services. Additional strategies are needed to ensure appropriate hearing rehabilitation for those not yet receiving adequate care.

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