1.A Survey of Korean Neurologists’ Awareness, Clinical Practice, Education, and Challenges in Sleep Medicine
Ki-Hwan JI ; Jung-Ick BYUN ; Dae Lim KOO ; Hyeyun KIM ; Hwan Seok PARK ; Jun Young LEE ; Sung Rae JO ; Ki-Young JUNG
Journal of the Korean Neurological Association 2025;43(1):21-27
Background:
Despite the critical importance of sleep medicine within neurology, notable gaps in education and clinical practice persist among neurologists. This study aims to explore the extent of involvement and the challenges faced by Korean neurologists in sleep medicine, focusing on awareness of polysomnography training program, the operation of sleep study facilities, and educational exposure.
Methods:
An online survey collected responses from 233 neurologists, focusing on their demographics, knowledge of and involvement in sleep medicine, operation of sleep study facilities, and participation in residency training.
Results:
The findings indicated that 84.9% of neurologists were aware of polysomnography training program, primarily through professional societies. Nonetheless, 15.1% reported unfamiliarity with these initiatives, with 72.7% of this subgroup expressing interest in sleep medicine yet lacking access to information. In terms of clinical practice, 74 neurologists operated sleep study facilities, with 63% intending to expand. Key operational challenges included staff management, maintaining patient volumes, and inadequate institutional support. Among respondents from teaching hospitals, only 36 out of 114 reported active resident involvement in sleep study interpretations, predominantly hindered by excessive workloads and insufficient staffing.
Conclusions
A significant number of neurologists have an interest in sleep medicine; however, substantial challenges impede effective education and clinical practice. These results underscore the need for improved educational resources and institutional support to enhance the growth and effectiveness of sleep medicine practices among neurologists.
2.Group B Streptococcus Detection Rate and Clindamycin Resistance Among Reproductive-Age Women in Korea During 2003–2022
Areum SHIN ; Doo Ri KIM ; Ji-Hee SUNG ; Jinyoung YANG ; Suk-Joo CHOI ; Cheong-Rae ROH ; Tae Yeul KIM ; Hee Jae HUH ; Nam Yong LEE ; Soo-young OH ; Yae-Jean KIM
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(15):e29-
Background:
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the leading causes of neonatal earlyonset sepsis, resulting in high mortality and significant comorbidity. Intrapartum penicillin prophylaxis is recommended for pregnant women with GBS colonization to prevent vertical transmission. For pregnant women at high risk of anaphylaxis to penicillin, clindamycin is recommended only if the susceptibility of GBS isolates has been identified. We retrospectively examined the GBS detection rate and clindamycin resistance among Korean women of reproductive age over the last 20 years.
Methods:
Microbiologic studies using vaginal, vaginal–rectal or vaginal–perianal swabs from female patients 15–49 years of age during 2003–2022 were reviewed. Annual GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were calculated. The study period was divided into two periods (period 1, 2003–2015; period 2, 2016–2022) based on the introduction of universal culture-based GBS screening in our center in 2016. GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were compared between the periods using χ2 tests.
Results:
A total of 14,571 women were tested 16,879 times and GBS was isolated in 1,054 tests (6.2%), with 423 clindamycin-resistant isolates (40.1%). The GBS detection rate increased from 3.4% (301/8,869) in period 1 to 9.4% (2,753/8,010) in period 2 (P < 0.001). Even during period 1, the GBS detection rate was higher in 2009–2015 compared to 2003–2008 (P < 0.001). Clindamycin resistance rates have remained at similar levels since 2009, which were 39.5% (199/301) in period 1 and 40.2% (303/753) in period 2 (P = 0.833).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that GBS detection rates in Korean women of reproductive age significantly increased almost three times during the twenty years of the study period, with a persistently high clindamycin resistance rate of up to 40%.
3.Group B Streptococcus Detection Rate and Clindamycin Resistance Among Reproductive-Age Women in Korea During 2003–2022
Areum SHIN ; Doo Ri KIM ; Ji-Hee SUNG ; Jinyoung YANG ; Suk-Joo CHOI ; Cheong-Rae ROH ; Tae Yeul KIM ; Hee Jae HUH ; Nam Yong LEE ; Soo-young OH ; Yae-Jean KIM
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(15):e29-
Background:
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the leading causes of neonatal earlyonset sepsis, resulting in high mortality and significant comorbidity. Intrapartum penicillin prophylaxis is recommended for pregnant women with GBS colonization to prevent vertical transmission. For pregnant women at high risk of anaphylaxis to penicillin, clindamycin is recommended only if the susceptibility of GBS isolates has been identified. We retrospectively examined the GBS detection rate and clindamycin resistance among Korean women of reproductive age over the last 20 years.
Methods:
Microbiologic studies using vaginal, vaginal–rectal or vaginal–perianal swabs from female patients 15–49 years of age during 2003–2022 were reviewed. Annual GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were calculated. The study period was divided into two periods (period 1, 2003–2015; period 2, 2016–2022) based on the introduction of universal culture-based GBS screening in our center in 2016. GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were compared between the periods using χ2 tests.
Results:
A total of 14,571 women were tested 16,879 times and GBS was isolated in 1,054 tests (6.2%), with 423 clindamycin-resistant isolates (40.1%). The GBS detection rate increased from 3.4% (301/8,869) in period 1 to 9.4% (2,753/8,010) in period 2 (P < 0.001). Even during period 1, the GBS detection rate was higher in 2009–2015 compared to 2003–2008 (P < 0.001). Clindamycin resistance rates have remained at similar levels since 2009, which were 39.5% (199/301) in period 1 and 40.2% (303/753) in period 2 (P = 0.833).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that GBS detection rates in Korean women of reproductive age significantly increased almost three times during the twenty years of the study period, with a persistently high clindamycin resistance rate of up to 40%.
4.Group B Streptococcus Detection Rate and Clindamycin Resistance Among Reproductive-Age Women in Korea During 2003–2022
Areum SHIN ; Doo Ri KIM ; Ji-Hee SUNG ; Jinyoung YANG ; Suk-Joo CHOI ; Cheong-Rae ROH ; Tae Yeul KIM ; Hee Jae HUH ; Nam Yong LEE ; Soo-young OH ; Yae-Jean KIM
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(15):e29-
Background:
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the leading causes of neonatal earlyonset sepsis, resulting in high mortality and significant comorbidity. Intrapartum penicillin prophylaxis is recommended for pregnant women with GBS colonization to prevent vertical transmission. For pregnant women at high risk of anaphylaxis to penicillin, clindamycin is recommended only if the susceptibility of GBS isolates has been identified. We retrospectively examined the GBS detection rate and clindamycin resistance among Korean women of reproductive age over the last 20 years.
Methods:
Microbiologic studies using vaginal, vaginal–rectal or vaginal–perianal swabs from female patients 15–49 years of age during 2003–2022 were reviewed. Annual GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were calculated. The study period was divided into two periods (period 1, 2003–2015; period 2, 2016–2022) based on the introduction of universal culture-based GBS screening in our center in 2016. GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were compared between the periods using χ2 tests.
Results:
A total of 14,571 women were tested 16,879 times and GBS was isolated in 1,054 tests (6.2%), with 423 clindamycin-resistant isolates (40.1%). The GBS detection rate increased from 3.4% (301/8,869) in period 1 to 9.4% (2,753/8,010) in period 2 (P < 0.001). Even during period 1, the GBS detection rate was higher in 2009–2015 compared to 2003–2008 (P < 0.001). Clindamycin resistance rates have remained at similar levels since 2009, which were 39.5% (199/301) in period 1 and 40.2% (303/753) in period 2 (P = 0.833).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that GBS detection rates in Korean women of reproductive age significantly increased almost three times during the twenty years of the study period, with a persistently high clindamycin resistance rate of up to 40%.
5.A Survey of Korean Neurologists’ Awareness, Clinical Practice, Education, and Challenges in Sleep Medicine
Ki-Hwan JI ; Jung-Ick BYUN ; Dae Lim KOO ; Hyeyun KIM ; Hwan Seok PARK ; Jun Young LEE ; Sung Rae JO ; Ki-Young JUNG
Journal of the Korean Neurological Association 2025;43(1):21-27
Background:
Despite the critical importance of sleep medicine within neurology, notable gaps in education and clinical practice persist among neurologists. This study aims to explore the extent of involvement and the challenges faced by Korean neurologists in sleep medicine, focusing on awareness of polysomnography training program, the operation of sleep study facilities, and educational exposure.
Methods:
An online survey collected responses from 233 neurologists, focusing on their demographics, knowledge of and involvement in sleep medicine, operation of sleep study facilities, and participation in residency training.
Results:
The findings indicated that 84.9% of neurologists were aware of polysomnography training program, primarily through professional societies. Nonetheless, 15.1% reported unfamiliarity with these initiatives, with 72.7% of this subgroup expressing interest in sleep medicine yet lacking access to information. In terms of clinical practice, 74 neurologists operated sleep study facilities, with 63% intending to expand. Key operational challenges included staff management, maintaining patient volumes, and inadequate institutional support. Among respondents from teaching hospitals, only 36 out of 114 reported active resident involvement in sleep study interpretations, predominantly hindered by excessive workloads and insufficient staffing.
Conclusions
A significant number of neurologists have an interest in sleep medicine; however, substantial challenges impede effective education and clinical practice. These results underscore the need for improved educational resources and institutional support to enhance the growth and effectiveness of sleep medicine practices among neurologists.
6.Group B Streptococcus Detection Rate and Clindamycin Resistance Among Reproductive-Age Women in Korea During 2003–2022
Areum SHIN ; Doo Ri KIM ; Ji-Hee SUNG ; Jinyoung YANG ; Suk-Joo CHOI ; Cheong-Rae ROH ; Tae Yeul KIM ; Hee Jae HUH ; Nam Yong LEE ; Soo-young OH ; Yae-Jean KIM
Journal of Korean Medical Science 2025;40(15):e29-
Background:
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is one of the leading causes of neonatal earlyonset sepsis, resulting in high mortality and significant comorbidity. Intrapartum penicillin prophylaxis is recommended for pregnant women with GBS colonization to prevent vertical transmission. For pregnant women at high risk of anaphylaxis to penicillin, clindamycin is recommended only if the susceptibility of GBS isolates has been identified. We retrospectively examined the GBS detection rate and clindamycin resistance among Korean women of reproductive age over the last 20 years.
Methods:
Microbiologic studies using vaginal, vaginal–rectal or vaginal–perianal swabs from female patients 15–49 years of age during 2003–2022 were reviewed. Annual GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were calculated. The study period was divided into two periods (period 1, 2003–2015; period 2, 2016–2022) based on the introduction of universal culture-based GBS screening in our center in 2016. GBS detection rates and clindamycin resistance rates were compared between the periods using χ2 tests.
Results:
A total of 14,571 women were tested 16,879 times and GBS was isolated in 1,054 tests (6.2%), with 423 clindamycin-resistant isolates (40.1%). The GBS detection rate increased from 3.4% (301/8,869) in period 1 to 9.4% (2,753/8,010) in period 2 (P < 0.001). Even during period 1, the GBS detection rate was higher in 2009–2015 compared to 2003–2008 (P < 0.001). Clindamycin resistance rates have remained at similar levels since 2009, which were 39.5% (199/301) in period 1 and 40.2% (303/753) in period 2 (P = 0.833).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that GBS detection rates in Korean women of reproductive age significantly increased almost three times during the twenty years of the study period, with a persistently high clindamycin resistance rate of up to 40%.
7.A Survey of Korean Neurologists’ Awareness, Clinical Practice, Education, and Challenges in Sleep Medicine
Ki-Hwan JI ; Jung-Ick BYUN ; Dae Lim KOO ; Hyeyun KIM ; Hwan Seok PARK ; Jun Young LEE ; Sung Rae JO ; Ki-Young JUNG
Journal of the Korean Neurological Association 2025;43(1):21-27
Background:
Despite the critical importance of sleep medicine within neurology, notable gaps in education and clinical practice persist among neurologists. This study aims to explore the extent of involvement and the challenges faced by Korean neurologists in sleep medicine, focusing on awareness of polysomnography training program, the operation of sleep study facilities, and educational exposure.
Methods:
An online survey collected responses from 233 neurologists, focusing on their demographics, knowledge of and involvement in sleep medicine, operation of sleep study facilities, and participation in residency training.
Results:
The findings indicated that 84.9% of neurologists were aware of polysomnography training program, primarily through professional societies. Nonetheless, 15.1% reported unfamiliarity with these initiatives, with 72.7% of this subgroup expressing interest in sleep medicine yet lacking access to information. In terms of clinical practice, 74 neurologists operated sleep study facilities, with 63% intending to expand. Key operational challenges included staff management, maintaining patient volumes, and inadequate institutional support. Among respondents from teaching hospitals, only 36 out of 114 reported active resident involvement in sleep study interpretations, predominantly hindered by excessive workloads and insufficient staffing.
Conclusions
A significant number of neurologists have an interest in sleep medicine; however, substantial challenges impede effective education and clinical practice. These results underscore the need for improved educational resources and institutional support to enhance the growth and effectiveness of sleep medicine practices among neurologists.
8.Tocilizumab as a Potential Treatment Option for Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome
Misun KIM ; Jeong Rae YOO ; Young Ree KIM ; Sang Taek HEO
Keimyung Medical Journal 2024;43(2):141-145
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a viral hemorrhagic disease prevalent in Asian countries with a fatality rate of approximately 10% to 30%. However, there are currently no definitive treatments for reducing mortality. Variable management strategies have been attempted to reduce the mortality rate associated with SFTS. Tocilizumab is an inhibitor of interleukin-6 and is used to treat rheumatologic and viral infectious diseases. This article presents two cases of SFTS in older patients with neurological symptoms and explores the potential use of tocilizumab, as a treatment option. The patient showed improved consciousness and clinical outcomes after tocilizumab administration. This report describes this condition and reviews related literature.
9.Tocilizumab as a Potential Treatment Option for Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome
Misun KIM ; Jeong Rae YOO ; Young Ree KIM ; Sang Taek HEO
Keimyung Medical Journal 2024;43(2):141-145
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is a viral hemorrhagic disease prevalent in Asian countries with a fatality rate of approximately 10% to 30%. However, there are currently no definitive treatments for reducing mortality. Variable management strategies have been attempted to reduce the mortality rate associated with SFTS. Tocilizumab is an inhibitor of interleukin-6 and is used to treat rheumatologic and viral infectious diseases. This article presents two cases of SFTS in older patients with neurological symptoms and explores the potential use of tocilizumab, as a treatment option. The patient showed improved consciousness and clinical outcomes after tocilizumab administration. This report describes this condition and reviews related literature.
10.Multiple-wavelength radiation promotes hair growth by enhancing the early stages of hair follicle development in human dermal papilla cells and C57BL/6 mice
Soo Min KIM ; Tae-Rin KWON ; Dong Wook MOON ; Jungwook KIM ; Rae Hyun LIM ; Jungkwan LEE ; So Young LEE ; Ka Ram KIM ; Young Gue KOH ; Hye Sung HAN ; Sun Young CHOI ; Kwang Ho YOO
Medical Lasers 2024;13(1):35-46
Background:
We aimed to clarify the safety and efficacy of simultaneous skin exposure to blue, red, and infrared light. The purpose of this study was to confirm the mechanism by which multiple wavelengths increase hair development both in vivo and in vitro.
Methods:
Cultured human dermal papilla cells (hDPCs) were exposed to a 470/655/850 nm light-emitting diode (LED) array with a fixed energy density of 3.0 mW/cm 2 . We analyzed alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and activity. The relative expressions of ALP, VEGF, Shh, and OPN3 were examined using reverse transcriptasepolymerase chain reaction arrays 48 hours post-exposure and the protein levels related to extracellular signalregulated kinase (ERK)/protein kinase B (AKT)/glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3)β signaling were assessed by western blotting. Next, we used H&E staining, hair growth scoring, skin thickness measurement, and the immunohistochemical analysis of the dorsal skin of C57BL/6 mice to investigate the effects of the mono- or combined-photobiomodulation (PBM) groups.
Results:
According to our findings, simultaneous irradiation with multi-wavelength LEDs at 470/655/850 nm increased the proliferation of hDPCs. Also, compared to the control group, the red wavelength and combined PBM groups had significantly improved skin thickness measurements. Overall, we concluded that the combined PBM therapy successfully induced the early onset of anagen and stimulated hair growth.
Conclusion
These results suggest that PBM therapy regulates hair growth by activating the ERK/AKT/GSK3βsignaling pathway. Thus, multiple-wavelength radiation from devices combining radiation emitted by lowpower lasers and LEDs could be a new approach for promoting PBM-induced beneficial effects.

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