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Background: Atrophic acne scarring is a common sequela of inflammatory acne, causing significant problems for affected patients. Although prolonged inflammation and subsequent aberrant tissue regeneration are considered the underlying pathogenesis, the role of epidermal stem cells, which are crucial to the regeneration of pilosebaceous units, remains unknown. Objectives: To examine the changes occurring in epidermal stem cells in atrophic acne scars. Methods: Changes in collagen, elastic fibre and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR expression were analysed in normal skin and inflammatory acne lesions at days 1, 3 and 7 after development. The expression of epidermal stem cell markers and proliferation markers was compared between normal skin and mature atrophic acne scar tissue. Results: In acne lesions, inflammation had invaded into pilosebaceous units over time. Their normal structure had been destructed and replaced with a reduced amount of collagen and elastic fibre. Expression of stem cell markers including CD34, p63, leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor (LGR)6 and LGR5, which are expressed in the interfollicular epidermis, isthmus and bulge of hair follicles, significantly decreased in atrophic acne scar tissue compared to normal skin. Epidermal proliferation was significantly reduced in scar tissue. Conclusions: These findings suggest that as inflammatory acne lesions progress, inflammation gradually infiltrates the pilosebaceous unit and affects the resident stem cells. This disruption impedes the normal regeneration of the interfollicular epidermis and adnexal structures, resulting in atrophic acne scars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabidiol (CBD), which is derived from hemp, is gaining recognition because of its anti-inflammatory and lipid-modulating properties that could be utilized to treat acne. We conducted experiments to quantitatively assess the effects of CBD on acne-related cellular pathways. SEB-1 sebocytes and HaCaT keratinocytes were exposed to various CBD concentrations. CBD exhibited a concentration-dependent impact on cell viability and notably reduced SEB-1 viability; furthermore, it induced apoptosis and a significant increase in the apoptotic area at higher concentrations. Additionally, CBD remarkably reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, including CXCL8, IL-1α, and IL-1β. Additionally, it inhibited lipid synthesis by modulating the AMPK-SREBP-1 pathway and effectively reduced hyperkeratinization-related protein keratin 16. Simultaneously, CBD stimulated the synthesis of elastin, collagen 1, and collagen 3. These findings emphasize the potential of CBD for the management of acne because of its anti-inflammatory, apoptotic, and lipid-inhibitory effects. Notably, the modulation of the Akt/AMPK-SREBP-1 pathway revealed a novel and promising mechanism that could address the pathogenesis of acne. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Androgen-dependent benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) model exerts excessive ROS, which was revealed by the involvement of the AR and NOX4 networks. • In BPH in vitro and in vivo model, the NADPH oxidase inhibitor Apocynin (Apo) suppresses inflammation and proliferation to suppress BPH through the AR/NOX4/TGF-β signaling. • Apo exerts anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant effects, highlighting the potential of Apo as a therapeutic agent for treatment of BPH. Apocynin (Apo), an NADPH oxidase (NOX) inhibitor, has been widely used to treat various inflammatory diseases. However, the therapeutic effects of Apo on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a multifactorial disease associated with chronic inflammation and hormone imbalance, remain unknown. The link between androgen signaling, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and prostate cell proliferation may contribute to the pathogenesis of BPH; therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the specific signaling pathway involved and to demonstrate whether the anti-oxidant Apo plays a role in the prevention and treatment of BPH. Ingenuity pathway analysis and si-RNA transfection were conducted to demonstrate the androgen receptor (AR) and NOX4 linkage in BPH. Pathological markers of BPH were measured by H&E staining, immunoblotting, ELISA, qRT-PCR, and immunofluorescence to examine the effect of Apo. Rats stimulated with testosterone and BPH-1 cells were used as BPH models. AR and NOX4 network-mediated oxidative stress was upregulated in the BPH model. Next, we examined the effects of Apo on oxidative stress and chronic prostatic inflammation in BPH mouse models. In a testosterone-induced BPH rat model, Apo alleviated pathological prostate enlargement and suppressed androgen/AR signaling. Apo suppressed the upregulation of proinflammatory markers and promoted the expression of anti-oxidant factors. Furthermore, Apo regulated the TGF-β/Glut9/activin pathway and macrophage programming. In BPH-1 cells, Apo suppressed AR-mediated proliferation and upregulation of TGFB and NOX4 expression by alleviating oxidative stress. Apo activated anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory systems and regulated macrophage polarization in BPH-1 cells. AR knockdown partially abolished the beneficial effects of Apo in prostate cells, indicating AR-dependent effects of Apo. In contrast with existing BPH therapies, Apo may provide a new application for prostatic disease treatment, especially for BPH, by targeting the AR/TGF-β/NOX4 signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the mechanism underlying the formation of quantum‐sized semiconductor nanocrystals is crucial for controlling their synthesis for a wide array of applications. However, most studies of 2D CdSe nanocrystals have relied predominantly on ex situ analyses, obscuring key intermediate stages and raising fundamental questions regarding their lateral shapes. Herein, the formation pathways of two distinct quantum‐sized 2D wurtzite‐CdSe nanocrystals — nanoribbons and nanosheets — by employing a comprehensive approach, combining in situ small‐angle X‐ray scattering techniques with various ex situ characterization methods is studied. Although both nanostructures share the same thickness of ≈1.4 nm, they display contrasting lateral dimensions. The findings reveal the pivotal role of Se precursor reactivity in determining two distinct synthesis pathways. Specifically, highly reactive precursors promote the formation of the nanocluster‐lamellar assemblies, leading to the synthesis of 2D nanoribbons with elongated shapes. In contrast, mild precursors produce nanosheets from a tiny seed of 2D nuclei, and the lateral growth is regulated by chloride ions, rather than relying on nanocluster‐lamellar assemblies or Cd(halide)2–alkylamine templates, resulting in 2D nanocrystals with relatively shorter lengths. These findings significantly advance the understanding of the growth mechanism governing quantum‐sized 2D semiconductor nanocrystals and offer valuable guidelines for their rational synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperglycemia is commonly observed in critically ill patients and postcardiac arrest patients, with higher glucose levels and variability associated with poorer outcomes. In this study, we aim to compare glucose control in diabetic and nondiabetic patients using glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, providing insights for better glucose management strategies. This retrospective observational study was conducted at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital from February 2009 to May 2022. Blood glucose levels were measured hourly for 48 h after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), and a glucose management protocol was followed to maintain arterial blood glucose levels between 140 and 180 mg/dL using short-acting insulin infusion. Patients were categorized into four groups based on diabetes status and glycemic control. The primary outcomes assessed were neurological outcome and mortality at 6 months after cardiac arrest. Among the 332 included patients, 83 (25.0%) had a previous diabetes diagnosis, and 114 (34.3%) had an HbA1c of 6.0% or higher. At least one hyperglycemic episode was observed in 314 patients (94.6%) and hypoglycemia was found in 63 patients (19.0%) during 48 h. After the categorization, unrecognized diabetes was noticed in 51 patients with median HbA1c of 6.3% (interquartile range [IQR] 6.1–6.6). Patients with inadequate diabetes control had the highest initial HbA1c level (7.0%, IQR 6.5–7.8) and admission glucose (314 mg/dL, IQR 257–424). Median time to target glucose in controlled diabetes was significantly shorter with the slowest glucose reducing rate. The total insulin dose required to reach the target glucose level and cumulative insulin requirement during 48 h were different among the categories (p <0.001). Poor neurological outcomes and mortality were more frequently observed in patients with diagnosed diabetes. Occurrence of a hypoglycemic episode during the 48 h after ROSC was independently associated with poor neurologic outcomes (odds ratio [OR] 3.505; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.382–9.663). Surviving patients following cardiac arrest exhibited variations in glucose hemodynamics and outcomes according to the categories based on their preexisting diabetes status and glycemic condition. Specifically, even experiencing a single episode of hypoglycemia during the acute phase could have an influence on unfavorable neurological outcomes. While the classification did not directly affect neurological outcomes, the present results indicate the need for a customized approach to glucose control based on these categories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aimed to investigate and verify the effect of cell‐penetrating peptide (CPP)‐conjugated soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) motif of vesicle‐associated membrane protein 2 (VAMP2)‐patterned peptide (INCI name: Acetyl sh‐Oligopeptide‐26 sh‐Oligopeptide‐27 SP, trade name: M.Biome‐BT) on improving skin function in vitro. Methods: The cytotoxicity of CPP‐conjugated SNARE motif of VAMP2‐patterned peptide (CVP) was investigated using the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay against B16‐F10 cells and human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and a reconstructed skin irritation test. The anti‐wrinkle activity of M.Biome‐BT was determined by assessing the release of norepinephrine and dopamine in PC‐12 cells via ELISA. The skin‐whitening effects of CVP were assessed in B16‐F10 cells by measuring the intra‐ and extracellular melanin contents and expression levels of melanin production‐related genes, such as microphthalmia‐associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase (TYR), tyrosinase‐related protein‐1 (TRP‐1), and TRP‐2. Results: CVP is not cytotoxic to B16‐F10 cells and HDFs, and no skin irritation was observed. CVP treatment considerably diminished K+‐induced norepinephrine and dopamine secretion compared with the non‐treated control group (62% and 40%, respectively). Additionally, the inhibition ability of CVP on norepinephrine and dopamine release was comparable to that of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A). CVP also increased intracellular melanin content in a dose‐dependent manner, whereas extracellular melanin content decreased (76%–85%). However, CVP treatment did not affect the mRNA expression of MITF, TYR, TRP‐1, and TRP‐2. These results suggest that CVP does not inhibit melanin production; however, it may induce a whitening effect by inhibiting melanin transport. Conclusions: Taken together, our findings indicate that CVP could be used as an active and safe cosmeceutical ingredient for antiaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given Japan's unique social background, it is critical to understand the current risk factors for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) to effectively manage the condition, especially among specific groups. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the current risk factors for PPH during planned cesarean section (CS) in Japan. This multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted in two tertiary maternal-fetal medicine units in Fukushima, Japan and included 1,069 women who underwent planned CS between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2022. Risk factors for PPH (of > 1000 g and > 1500 g) were assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis, considering variables such as maternal age, parity, assisted reproductive technology (ART) pregnancy, pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), uterine myoma, placenta previa, gestational age at delivery, birth weight categories, and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). Multivariate linear regression analyses were conducted to predict estimated blood loss during planned CS. ART pregnancy, a pre-pregnancy BMI of 25.0–29.9 kg/m2, and uterine myoma increased PPH risk at various levels. Maternal smoking increased the risk of >1500 g PPH (adjusted odds ratio: 3.09, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–8.20). Multivariate linear analysis showed that advanced maternal age (B: 83 g; 95% CI: 27–139 g), ART pregnancy (B: 239 g; 95% CI: 121–357 g), pre-pregnancy BMI of 25.0–29.9 kg/m2 (B: 74 g; 95% CI: 22–167 g), uterine myoma (B: 151 g; 95% CI: 47–256 g), smoking (B: 107 g; 95% CI: 13–200 g), and birth weight > 3,500 g (B: 203 g; 95% CI: 67–338 g) were associated with blood loss during planned CS. Considering a patient's clinical characteristic may help predict bleeding in planned CSs and help improve patient safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The parathyroid gland is an endocrine organ that plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in blood serum through the secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). Hypoparathyroidism is a chronic disease that can occur due to parathyroid defects, but due to the difficulty of creating animal models of this disease or obtaining human normal parathyroid cells, the evaluation of parathyroid functionality for drug development is limited. Although parathyroid-like cells that secrete PTH have recently been reported, their functionality may be overestimated using traditional culture methods that lack in vivo similarities, particularly vascularization. To overcome these limitations, we obtained parathyroid organoids from tonsil-derived mesenchymal stem cells (TMSCs) and fabricated a parathyroid-on-a-chip, capable of simulating PTH secretion based on calcium concentration. This chip exhibited differences in PTH secretion according to calcium concentration and secreted PTH within the range of normal serum levels. In addition, branches of organoids, which are difficult to observe in animal models, were observed in this chip. This could serve as a guideline for successful engraftment in implantation therapies in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In times of prolonged economic doldrums across the globe, multinational firms (MNFs) offshoring blunders can undermine their competitiveness in the marketplace. To help the MNF formulate a more resilient offshoring strategy and identify the most desirable offshoring destination, this article aims to identify dynamic risk factors that significantly hinder the efficiency of offshoring and then measure specific offshoring risks over time using two different versions of data envelopment analysis (DEA) models and Malmquist productivity index (MPI). After assessing the degree of risk resiliency of the offshoring host countries over extended periods and then conducting Tobit regression analysis to identify key factors that significantly influence offshoring risks, we found that the host country's logistics efficiency (i.e., logistics performance index [LPI]) and domestic market size were critical indicators of offshoring success in that country. Since low‐cost sourcing countries (LCCs) tend to have relatively low LPIs and smaller domestic market sizes, they are not attractive offshoring destinations. This finding defies conventional wisdom. This article is one of the first longitudinal studies to assess the comprehensive risk resilience of 87 different offshoring destinations (countries) during multiple periods (6‐year span). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is aimed to investigate the effect of hemodialysis (HD) on the lamina cribrosa (LC) of the optic nerve head (ONH) using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and other ophthalmological parameters in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). This prospective observational study included 29 patients who underwent HD for ESKD. ONH parameters including neural canal diameter (NCD), peripapillary vertical height (PVH), and anterior LC depth (LCD), were assessed using SS-OCT. Changes in the ONH parameters before and after HD were statistically analysed. Correlations between changes in the LCD and other ocular and systemic measurements were identified using Pearson's correlation analyses. The mean anterior LCD significantly decreased from 441.6 ± 139.8 μm before HD to 413.5 ± 141.7 μm after HD (P = 0.001). Mean NCD and PVH did not show significant changes after HD (P = 0.841 and P = 0.574, respectively). A significant correlation was found between changes in the anterior LCD and the mean ocular perfusion pressure (r = 0.397, P = 0.036). We observed a significant decrease in anterior LCD after HD. Our study suggests that HD can influence the ONH, especially in the LC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving teamwork among mental health practitioners is crucial. However, there have been few intervention studies on teamwork enhancement among community mental health practitioners in South Korea. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Team Building Circle program (TBC) based on the restorative justice paradigm, which sought to promote integration and cohesion. The TBC was developed to improve conflict interpretation mind-set, interpersonal skills, and teamwork among practitioners in community mental health centers. We conducted a quasi-experimental study using a pre and posttest design with a non-equivalent control group. The participants were 44 practitioners from four community mental health centers. Data were collected before the implementation TBC (pretest), just after (posttest), and 3 months after TBC (follow-up test). A generalized estimating equation model was used for analysis. Our findings indicate that the intervention group had improved scores in the ability to cope with interpersonal stress in a constructive way, interpersonal relationship skills, and teamwork compared to the control group. To improve teamwork among community mental health practitioners, managers are encouraged to consider providing TBC intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U.S. Department of Energy accelerated stress test carbon protocol emphasizes improving the durability of both the catalyst layer and the micro-porous layer (MPL) carbon support. This underscores the need for research focused solely on the degradation of the Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL). Traditionally, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy impedance data used to analyze resistance due to GDL durability has been interpreted through equivalent circuit models. However, this method simplifies simultaneous response and multiple models for the same data, which reduces the objectivity of the analysis. Therefore, this study analyzed the durability characteristics of GDLs with and without MPLs using distribution of relaxation times, a method less prone to subjectivity. In short, the results showed that substrates without MPL are more susceptible to performance degradation and loss, and highlighted the emergence of Warburg resistance due to limited diffusion under harsh environmental conditions. • Accelerated aging significantly impacts the physical and chemical properties of GDLs. • GDL without MPL show higher susceptibility to performance degradation. • DRT analysis provides a less subjective method for evaluating GDL durability in PEMFCs. • Warburg diffusion resistance (R1') occurs for the first time when GDL without MPL degrades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to explore the unit of information and the size of the unit for designing a voice user interface. Through two experiments, this study investigated what form the information (the unit of information) should take and what size of that (the size of unit) should be when people were provided information by voice interfaces. Participants were presented with a task to recall (OX quiz) by listening to and remembering information (based on an encyclopedia) provided by smart speakers. In Experiment 1, it was revealed that participants stored information in their memory span on a sentence-by-sentences basis to determine how much information they could remember. In Experiment 2, sentence-based information was presented in various sizes, and participants evaluated 17 information units consisting of up to nine words as their memory limit. This information unit-based voice interface design could help improve users' memory performance and usability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionEosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) is an important biomarker of eosinophilic inflammation.This study evaluated Montelukast treatment response according to EDN concentration in children with perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR). Fifty-two children with PAR were recruited and took a combination of Montelukast (5mg) and Levocetirizine (5mg) “Mont/Levo Group” or only Montelukast (5mg) “Mont Group” for 4 weeks. All caregivers were instructed to record rhinitis symptoms for 4 weeks. EDN was measured before and after treatment.Daytime nasal symptom scores (DNSS) significantly decreased in both the Mont/Levo (p = 0.0001; n = 20) and Mont Group (p < 0.0001; n = 20), but there were no significant differences between the two groups. EDN concentration also significantly decreased after treatment in both groups (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.001, respectively). For secondary analysis, children with a high initial EDN concentration (EDN ≥ 53 ng/mL) were placed in the “High EDN Group”, while those with a lower initial EDN concentration (EDN < 53 ng/mL) were put in the “Low EDN Group”. Both groups experienced significant reductions in DNSS after either treatment regimen (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0027, respectively) but the High EDN Group had greater reductions. EDN concentrations in the High EDN Group decreased significantly from either treatment (p < 0.0001).We found that children with AR and a high serum EDN concentration may respond well to Montelukast treatment. A therapeutic strategy using EDN concentrations in patients with AR to evaluate therapeutic response may help improve quality of care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a significant inflammatory bowel disease caused by an abnormal immune response to gut microbes. However, there are still gaps in our understanding of how immune and metabolic changes specifically contribute to this disease. Our research aims to address this gap by examining mouse colons after inducing ulcerative colitis-like symptoms. Employing single-cell RNA-seq and 16 s rRNA amplicon sequencing to analyze distinct cell clusters and microbiomes in the mouse colon at different time points after induction with dextran sodium sulfate. We observe a significant reduction in epithelial populations during acute colitis, indicating tissue damage, with a partial recovery observed in chronic inflammation. Analyses of cell-cell interactions demonstrate shifts in networking patterns among different cell types during disease progression. Notably, macrophage phenotypes exhibit diversity, with a pronounced polarization towards the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype in chronic conditions, suggesting the role of macrophage heterogeneity in disease severity. Increased expression of Nampt and NOX2 complex subunits in chronic UC macrophages contributes to the inflammatory processes. The chronic UC microbiome exhibits reduced taxonomic diversity compared to healthy conditions and acute UC. The study also highlights the role of T cell differentiation in the context of dysbiosis and its implications in colitis progression, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to modulate the inflammatory response and immune balance in colitis. Chronic ulcerative colitis in mice is characterized by pro-inflammatory M1 macrophage phenotype and higher Nampt and NOX2 transcription, as well as a reduced taxonomic diversity in the mice gut microbiome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Antioxidant effects of phenolic compounds in through the distillation of Lonicera japonica & Chenpi extract and anti-inflammation on skin keratinocyte" published in Scientific Reports. The correction addresses an error in Figure 4, 5, and 6 of the original article, where the symbol "μ" was not displayed correctly. The corrected figures and accompanying legends are provided in the document. The authors of the article are Hun Hwan Kim, Se Hyo Jeong, Min Yeong Park, Pritam Bhangwan Bhosale, Abuyaseer Abusaliya, Hyun Wook Kim, Je Kyung Seong, Meejung Ahn, Kwang Il Park, and Gon Sup Kim. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives Methods Results Conclusion The elapse time between the completion of bowel cleansing and colonoscopy is one of the important factors for proper bowel cleansing. Although several studies have reported that a short time interval resulted in a favorable bowel cleansing, no randomized controlled trial (RCT) has been conducted to determine the effect of the elapse time. Consequently, we performed an RCT to investigate the efficacy of bowel preparation of participants who underwent colonoscopy according to the different time intervals between the completion of bowel preparation and colonoscopy.In this single‐center RCT, study participants were randomized to complete bowel preparation either 2–4 h or 4–8 h before colonoscopy. The primary end‐point was successful bowel preparation, rated using the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS).A total of 504 individuals were included (2–4 h, 255; 4–8 h, 249). The rate of successful bowel preparation in the 2–4 h group showed noninferiority compared with that of the 4–8 h group (97.6% vs. 95.2%; rate difference, 2.5% [−0.8% to 5.7%]; Pfor noninferiority < 0.001, Pfor superiority = 0.136). The rate for perfect cleansing (a BBPS score of 9) was higher in the 2–4 h group (56.5% vs. 39.8%, P < 0.001).When bowel cleansing was finished 2–4 h before the start of colonoscopy, the overall bowel cleansing was noninferior, and perfect cleansing was superior, compared to that when cleansing was finished 4–8 h before colonoscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The self-assembly of NiCl2 with a chiral bidentate ligand pair, (1R,2S)-(+)- and (1S,2R)-(-)-1-(nicotinamido)- 2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-2-yl nicotinate (r,s-L and s,r-L) in a mixture of ethanol and dioxane, gives rise to stable crystals consisting of [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH and [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(r,s-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH chiral cages, respectively, with two encapsulated chloride anions in the cavities. The most interesting feature is that the self-assembly of NiCl2 with the mixture of r,s-L and s,r-L (1: 1-1 :4) produces crystals of thermodynamically stable achiral cages, [2Cl·2H2O@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)2(r,s-L)2(H2O)2]·7C4H8O2, in the molar ratio range. Furthermore, the [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH and [2Cl@Ni2Cl2(r,s-L)4(H2O)2]·4C4H8O2·EtOH chiral crystals can recognize the pairs of L-,D-tryptophan and L-,D-cysteine via cyclic voltammetry (CV) signals, in contrast to the [2Cl·2H2O@Ni2Cl2(s,r-L)2(r,s-L)2(H2O)2]·7C4H8O2 achiral crystal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions The depressed volume of the forehead and temple is resolved by filler injection. However, the current method has the potential to cause pain and side effects in patients, depending on the skill of the clinician. Therefore, this study proposes a new method for safer and simpler injection using only one injection entry point.Using the novel injection method, the filler was injected into the forehead and temple regions in three unembalmed cadavers and two healthy Korean volunteers. The cannula and filler locations were identified using dissection, ultrasonography, and three‐dimensional (3D) scanning.Ultrasonographic images and dissection results showed that the filler injected into the cadavers was in the target layer. The cannula and filler were located on the layer as the supraperiosteal layer on the forehead and the supra deep temporal fascia layer in the temple. Finally, 3D scanning images showed that the filler was injected precisely and effectively into the forehead and temples of the volunteer who underwent the procedure.This method can reduce pain and minimize externally visible wounds caused by injections. The injected filler was naturally connected from the forehead to the temple and maintained for around 3 months. Additionally, it is possible to inject fillers into the forehead and temple at a constant and safe depth without requiring specific skills. It is expected that this method will become a universal method because it minimizes the burden on both patients and clinicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data on antimicrobial use at the national level are crucial for establishing domestic antimicrobial stewardship policies and enabling medical institutions to benchmark each other. This study aimed to analyze antimicrobial use in Korean hospitals. Materials and Methods: We investigated antimicrobials prescribed in Korean hospitals between 2018 and 2021 using data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment. Primary care hospitals (PCHs), secondary care hospitals (SCHs), and tertiary care hospitals (TCHs) were included in this analysis. Antimicrobials were categorized according to the Korea National Antimicrobial Use Analysis System (KONAS) classification, which is suitable for measuring antimicrobial use in Korean hospitals. Results: Among over 1,900 hospitals, PCHs constituted the highest proportion, whereas TCHs had the lowest representation. The most frequently prescribed antimicrobials in 2021 were piperacillin/β-lactamase inhibitor (9.3%) in TCHs, ceftriaxone (11.0%) in SCHs, and cefazedone (18.9%) in PCHs. Between 2018 and 2021, the most used antimicrobial classes according to the KONAS classification were ‘broad-spectrum antibacterial agents predominantly used for community-acquired infections’ in SCHs and TCHs and 'narrow spectrum beta-lactam agents' in PCHs. Total consumption of antimicrobials decreased from 951.7 to 929.9 days of therapy (DOT)/1,000 patient-days in TCHs and 817.8 to 752.2 DOT/1,000 patient-days in SCHs during study period; however, no reduction was noted in PCHs (from 504.3 to 527.2 DOT/1,000 patient-days). Moreover, in 2021, the use of reserve antimicrobials decreased from 13.6 to 10.7 DOT/1,000 patient-days in TCHs and from 4.6 to 3.3 DOT/1,000 patient-days in SCHs. However, in PCHs, the use increased from 0.7 to 0.8 DOT/1,000 patient-days. Conclusion: This study confirmed that antimicrobial use differed according to hospital type in Korea. Recent increases in the use of total and reserve antimicrobials in PCHs reflect the challenges that must be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate and compare the surgical outcomes of endoscopic malleostapedotomy (EMS) and endoscopic incudostapedotomy (EIS). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 36 consecutive ears in 33 patients who underwent stapes surgery using either EMS (EMS group) or EIS (EIS group). Operational practicability across surgical steps, postoperative hearing, operation time, switch of approach, and complications were compared between the two groups. Results: The EMS and EIS groups comprised seven (19.4%) and 29 ears (80.6%), respectively. The EMS group exhibited a greater proportion of moderate practicability in anchoring site exposure (42.9%, three of seven) and in securing the prosthesis (100%, seven of seven) in comparison to the EIS group, which had 0% (0 out of 29) and 41.4% (12 out of 29), respectively. Postoperative hearing improvements were equivalent between the groups, with EMS achieving a mean air-bone gap improvement of 28.8 dB and EIS of 23.2 dB. The ABG closure rates within 10 dB and 20 dB for the EMS group were 28.6% and 100%, respectively, and not significantly different from the EIS group (p = .103). However, the average surgical duration for EMS was extended by 77.4 min. The rate of complications was comparable between the groups (EMS 14.3%, EIS 10.3%, p = 1.000). Conclusion: The findings indicate that while EMS requires a longer operation time because of decreased practicability in specific surgical steps, it provides comparable outcomes to EIS, underscoring the potential of endoscopic techniques to establish malleostapedotomy as a surgical option as it is with traditional incudostapedotomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ), a piperidine iminosugar analogous to D-glucose, exhibits various biological properties with antidiabetic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. N -alkylated DNJ derivatives have been used clinically as medicines for type 2 diabetes and lysosomal storage diseases. DNJ naturally occurs in plants and microbes, and the methods of DNJ production in these organisms have attained stereoselectivity with more environmentally friendly and simpler processes than chemical synthesis. However, the yield of DNJ has to be improved by reinforcing its biosynthetic pathway. This review summarizes the various DNJ-producing species and the production titer of DNJ in plants and microbes. Additionally, it compares the methods used to validate the biosynthesis of DNJ in plants and in microbes. It also covers the application of some DNJ biosynthesis-related genes and the enhancement of DNJ content via metabolic engineering. Finally, this review highlights new biological sources of other iminosugars that can be detected through the knowledge of DNJ biosynthesis. [Display omitted] • Deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) is a piperidine iminosugar with medicinal properties. • DNJ is naturally found in mulberry plants and Bacillus and Streptomyces spp. • DNJ yield can be improved with the discovery of genes involved in its biosynthesis. • Biological production of new iminosugar can be identified via DNJ biosynthetic genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to explore variables related to school belonging from a holistic perspective, including a large number of variables in one model, different to the traditional analytical method. Using 2015 data from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), we sought to identify variables related to school belonging by searching for hundreds of predictors in one model using the group Mnet machine learning technique. The study repeated 100 rounds of model building after random data splitting. After exploring 504 variables (384 student and 99 parent), 32 variables were finally selected after selection counts. Variables predicting a sense of school belonging were categorized as individual/parent variables (e.g. motivation to achieve, tendency to cooperative learning, parental support) and school-related variables (e.g. school satisfaction, peer/teacher relationship, learning/physical activities). The significance and implications of the study as well as future research topics were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endotracheal suctioning is an essential but labor-intensive procedure, with the risk of serious complications. A brand new automatic closed-suction device was developed to alleviate the workload of healthcare providers and minimize those complications. We evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of the automatic suction system in mechanically ventilated patients with pneumonia. In this multicenter, randomized, non-inferiority, investigator-initiated trial, mechanically ventilated patients with pneumonia were randomized to the automatic device (intervention) or conventional manual suctioning (control). The primary efficacy outcome was the change in the modified clinical pulmonary infection score (CPIS) in 3 days. Secondary outcomes were the frequency of additional suctioning and the amount of secretion. Safety outcomes included adverse events or complications. A total of 54 participants, less than the pre-determined number of 102, were enrolled. There was no significant difference in the change in the CPIS over 72 h (−0.13 ± 1.58 in the intervention group, −0.58 ± 1.18 in the control group, p = 0.866), but the non-inferiority margin was not satisfied. There were no significant differences in the secondary outcomes and safety outcomes, with a tendency for more patients with improved tracheal mucosal injury in the intervention group. The novel automatic closed-suction system showed comparable efficacy and safety compared with conventional manual suctioning in mechanically ventilated patients with pneumonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: The etiological distribution of oculomotor nerve palsy has varied amongst the studies. This study aimed to define the clinical features and underlying etiologies of isolated oculomotor nerve palsy by recruiting patients from all departments in a referral‐based university hospital. Methods: The medical records of 672 patients who had a confirmed diagnosis of isolated oculomotor nerve palsy at all departments of Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea, from 2003 to 2020 were reviewed. A proportion of the etiology of isolated oculomotor nerve palsy was also compared with that of patients pooled from the previous studies that were searched on PubMed in May 2022. Results: The most common etiology was microvascular (n = 168, 26.5%), followed by vascular anomalies (n = 110, 17.4%), neoplastic (n = 86, 13.6%), inflammatory (n = 79, 12.5%), idiopathic (n = 60, 9.5%) and traumatic (n = 53, 8.4%). Neurologists were mainly involved in the management of microvascular and inflammatory oculomotor nerve palsies whilst ophthalmologists mainly participated in the care of idiopathic, neoplastic and traumatic palsies. Neurosurgeons mostly took care of oculomotor nerve palsy due to vascular anomalies. Conclusions: The proportion of etiologies of isolated oculomotor nerve palsy may differ according to the specialties involved in the management. The results of previous studies on the etiological distribution of isolated oculomotor nerve palsy should be interpreted with this consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pb[Zr,Ti]O 3 (PZT) thin films with the Zr/Ti ratio of 45/55, 52/48, and 60/40 (PZT(45/55), PZT(52/48), and PZT(60/40), respectively) are deposited on (001)SrRuO 3 /(001)Pt/ZrO 2 /Si by sol-gel method. We confirm that the epitaxial (001)Pt electrode facilitate the epitaxial growth of the PZT thin films along the c -axis direction. Basic characteristics such as structural, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties are examined. Furthermore, direct and converse piezoelectric properties are evaluated using effective transverse piezoelectric coefficients, | e 31, f |. In particular, the epitaxial PZT thin films manifest a dependence of the converse | e 31, f | on applied voltages with the values as follows; 9.7–11.5 C/m2, 11.2–12.5 C/m2, and 11.7–12.3 C/m2 for the epitaxial PZT(45/55), PZT(52/48), and PZT(60/40), respectively. Moreover, by analyzing bias-resolved in-situ reciprocal space map (RSM) obtained from synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction (SR-XRD) which allows for the understanding on the transition of crystal structures, we explore the voltage-induced contributions for the converse | e 31, f |. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Materials generating circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) have received increasing interest due to their potential applications in bioimaging, sensing, anticounterfeiting, and display technologies. The possibility of efficient CPL generation is explored for organic molecules, inorganic materials, and their hybrid systems. A chiral plasmonic nanostructure is one candidate for generating strong and highly dissymmetric CPL by coupling with the surrounding luminescent material. Here, the inherent luminescence of gold nanoparticles can produce CPL without using any secondary material is suggested. In this study, the generation of circularly polarized two‐photon‐induced photoluminescence (TPI‐PL) from chiral gold nanostructures is demonstrated. Measurements of TPI‐PL show that it has a strong dissymmetry factor of ≈0.7 for a single chiral Au nanoparticle. A theoretical simulation study showed that a local chiral electromagnetic field confined to the chiral gap structures contributes to the high degree of circular polarization in TPI‐PL. It is believed that this work provides a new route for novel CPL‐generating materials with strong dissymmetry and holds promise for various applications using CPL technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-biding motif (TAZ) is widely expressed in most tissues and interacts with several transcription factors to regulate cell proliferation, differentiation, and death, thereby influencing organ development and size control. However, very little is known about the function of TAZ in the immune system and its association with inflammatory skin diseases, so we investigated the role of TAZ in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Results: Interestingly, TAZ was expressed in mast cells associated, particularly in lysosomes, and co-localized with histamine-releasing factor (HRF). TAZ deficiency promoted mast cell maturation and increased HRF expression and secretion by mast cells. The upregulation of HRF in TAZ deficiency was not due to increased transcription but to protein stabilization, and TAZ restoration into TAZ-deficient cells reduced HRF protein. Interestingly, imiquimod (IMQ)-induced psoriasis, in which HRF serves as a major pro-inflammatory factor, was more severe in TAZ KO mice than in WT control. HRF expression and secretion were increased by IMQ treatment and were more pronounced in TAZ KO mice treated with IMQ. Conclusions: Thus, as HRF expression was stabilized in TAZ KO mice, psoriatic pathogenesis progressed more rapidly, indicating that TAZ plays an important role in preventing psoriasis by regulating HRF protein stability. Highlights: HRF is expressed in lysosomes and associated with TAZ expression. HRF expression is increased in TAZ-deficient immune cells. HRF protein stability is controlled by TAZ, resulting in stabilized HRF in TAZ deficiency. TAZ deficiency promotes susceptibility to IMQ-induced psoriasis, leading to exacerbated psoriatic inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A proper stratification of intracranial aneurysms is critical in identifying rupture-destined aneurysms and unruptured intracranial aneurysms. We aimed to determine the utility of geometric and hemodynamic indexes in differentiating two types of aneurysms and to examine the characteristics of natural evolutionary changes of unruptured aneurysms. Methods: Rupture-destined aneurysm refers to an aneurysm that undergoes subsequent aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). On the other hand, an unruptured intracranial aneurysm is characterized by an aneurysm that does not experience rupture during serial time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography (TOF-MRA). In addition to geometric indexes, signal intensity gradient (SIG), an in vivo approximated wall shear stress from TOF-MRA, was measured in aneurysms. The difference between the maximum and minimum values of SIG in an aneurysm compared to parent arterial values was designated as the delta-SIG ratio. Results: This study analyzed 20 rupture-destined aneurysms in 20 patients and 45 unruptured intracranial aneurysms in 41 patients with follow-up TOF-MRA. While geometric indexes did not show differences between the two groups, the delta-SIG ratio was higher in the rupture-destined aneurysms (1.5 ± 0.6 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3, p = 0.032). The delta-SIG ratio showed a higher area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for SAH than the size ratio (0.72 [95% CI, 0.58–0.87] vs. 0.56 [95% CI, 0.41–0.72], p = 0.033). The longitudinal re-examination of TOF-MRA in the unruptured intracranial aneurysms revealed evidence of aneurysmal growth, while concurrently exhibiting hemodynamic stability. Conclusion: The delta-SIG ratio showed higher discriminatory results between the two groups compared to geometric indexes. Aneurysmal rupture risk should be assessed by considering both geometric and hemodynamic information. This study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05450939). Plain Language Summary: The incidence of intracranial aneurysm (IA) is 2–3% in the general population, and with the widespread use of neurovascular imaging techniques, more IAs are being diagnosed. IA management is crucial as it can lead to fatal subarachnoid hemorrhage, causing high mortality and neurological issues. About 1% of patients with IA experience severe hemorrhage annually, which raises questions about the best method to assess rupture risk. Past studies used geometric indexes and computational fluid dynamics to differentiate between ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. However, these studies mostly focused on cross-sectional data and did not analyze the evolutionary changes of ruptured aneurysms. In this study, we call such aneurysms rupture-destined aneurysms (RDAs) to differentiate from stable unruptured intracranial aneurysm (UIA). In the present study, the key findings could be summarized as below: (1) the RDA group showed a significantly higher hemodynamic instability than the UIA group; (2) the UIA group showed features of hemodynamic stability, even with geometric growth; (3) aneurysmal rupture risk should be assessed using both geometric and hemodynamic information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypyrrole (PPy)-capped silver nanowire (Ag NW) nanomaterials (core–shell rod-shaped Ag NW@PPy) were synthesized using a one-port suspension polymerization technique. The thickness of the PPy layer on the 50 nm thickness/15 μm length Ag NW was effectively controlled to 10, 40, 50, and 60 nm. Thin films cast from one-dimensional conductive Ag NW@PPy formed a three-dimensional (3D) conductive porous network structure and provided excellent electrochemical performance. The 3D Ag NW@PPy network can significantly reduce the internal resistance of the electrode and maintain structural stability. As a result, a high specific capacitance of 625 F/g at a scan rate of 1 mV/s was obtained from the 3D porous Ag NW@PPy composite film. The cycling performance over a long period exceeding 10,000 cycles was also evaluated. We expect that our core–shell-structured Ag NW@PPy composites and their 3D porous structure network films can be applied as electrochemical materials for the design and manufacturing of supercapacitors and other energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Physical skeletal loading can affect the bone mineral density (BMD). This study investigated the association between BMD and dynamic foot pressure during gait. Methods: A total of 104 patients (mean age, 62.6 ± 12.4 years; 23 male and 81 female) who underwent dual x-ray absorptiometry and pedobarography were included. BMD values of the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total femur were assessed. The mean and maximum pressures were measured at the hallux, lesser toes, 1st metatarsal head, 2nd and 3rd metatarsal heads, 4th and 5th metatarsal heads, midfoot, medial heel, and lateral heel. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify factors significantly associated with BMD. Results: The lumbar spine BMD was significantly associated with the mean pressure at the 4th and 5th metatarsal heads (p = 0.041, adjusted R2 of model = 0.081). The femoral neck BMD was significantly associated with the maximum pressure at the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal heads (p = 0.002, adjusted R2 = 0.213). The total femoral BMD also showed a significant association with the maximum pressure at the 2nd and 3rd metatarsal heads (p = 0.003, adjusted R2 = 0.360). Conclusions: Foot plantar pressure during gait was significantly associated with BMD, and could potentially be used to predict the presence of osteoporosis. Level of Evidence: Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) have attracted attention as promising next‐generation batteries due to their remarkably high capacity compared to lithium‐ion batteries and the low cost of sulfur. However, one of the inherent problems of LSBs is the "shuttle effect," which causes lithium metal anode instability and capacity fading. This is still a major barrier that must be overcome before it is used in the industry. Therefore, to commercialize LSBs, it is essential to suppress this shuttle effect. From this point of view, this review focuses on the categorization of the methods and materials for interlayer and separator modification, which is one of the effective ways to address the shuttle effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Networking with other biodosimetry laboratories is necessary to assess the radiation exposure of many individuals in large-scale radiological accidents. The Korea biodosimetry network, K-BioDos, prepared harmonized scoring guidelines for dicentric chromosome assay to obtain homogeneous results within the network and investigated the efficiency of the guidelines. Three laboratories in K-BioDos harmonized the scoring guidelines for dicentric chromosome assay. The results of scoring dicentric chromosomes using the harmonized scoring guidelines were compared with the laboratories' results using their own methods. Feedback was collected from the scorers following the three intercomparison exercises in 3 consecutive years. K-BioDos members showed comparable capacity to score dicentrics in the three exercises. However, the results of the K-BioDos guidelines showed no significant improvement over those of the scorers' own methods. According to the scorers, our harmonized guidelines led to more rejected metaphases and ultimately decreased the number of scorable metaphases compared with their own methods. Moreover, the scoring time was sometimes longer with the K-BioDos protocol because some scorers were not yet familiar with the guidelines, though most scorers reported that the time decreased or was unchanged. These challenges may cause low adherence to the guidelines. Most scorers expressed willingness to use the guidelines to select scorable metaphases or identify dicentrics for other biodosimetry works, whereas one did not want to use it due to the difference from their calibration curves. We identified potential resistance to following the harmonized guidelines and received requests for more detailed methods. Our findings suggest that the harmonized criteria should be continually updated, and education and training should be provided for all scorers. These changes could allow members within the biodosimetry network to successfully collaborate and support each other in large-scale radiological accidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: When multiple complex air pollutants are combined in real‐world settings, the reliability of estimating the effect of a single pollutant is questionable. This study aimed to investigate the combined effects of changes in air pollutants on small airway dysfunction (SAD). Methods: We analysed Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) V–VIII database from 2010 to 2018 to elucidate the associations between annual changes in air pollutants over a previous 5‐year period and small airway function. We estimated the annual concentrations of five air pollutants: NO2, O3, PM2.5, SO2 and CO. Forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of vital capacity (FEF25%–75%) <65% was defined as SAD. Using the quantile generalized‐Computation (g‐Computation) model, the combined effect of the annual changes in different air pollutants was estimated. Results: A total of 29,115 individuals were included. We found significant associations between SAD and the quartiles of annual changes in NO2 (OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.08–1.12), O3 (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.00–1.05), PM2.5 (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.00–1.05), SO2 (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.02–1.08) and CO (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.12–1.19). The combined effect of the air pollutant changes was significantly associated with SAD independent of smoking (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.26–1.35, p‐value <0.001), and this trend was consistently observed across the entire study population and various subgroup populations. As the estimated risk of SAD, determined by individual‐specific combined effect models, increased and the log odds for SAD increased linearly. Conclusion: The combined effect of annual changes in multiple air pollutant concentrations were associated with an increased risk of SAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to examine the mediating effect of life stress and the moderated mediating effect of job satisfaction on work–family conflict and depression among working mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted using raw data from Wave 8 of the Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women and Families, collected during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. Among the 9175 respondents, study included 1315 women aged between 26 and 55, who have children cohabiting with them. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics; T-test, ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation. The analysis was conducted using the SPSS/WIN 26.0 program and the SPSS PROCESS macro (version 4.0). Results: Life stress was observed to have a significant mediating effect (indirect effect) on work–family conflict and depression. Within this indirect effect, job satisfaction was found to play a moderated mediating role. Conclusion: Drawing from these findings, various interventional strategies can be devised to alleviate work–family conflict and life stress, and enhance job satisfaction, thereby improving the mental health of working mothers. Additionally, these results offer valuable insights for developing mental health promotion programs aimed at preventing and preparing for crises such as infectious diseases and can contribute to inform health policy-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: We aimed to compare Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) category 4/5 and category M (LR-M) of proliferative hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) in cirrhotic patients and evaluate their impacts on prognosis. Methods: This retrospective multi-reader study included cirrhotic patients with single treatment-naïve HCC ≤ 5.0 cm who underwent contrast-enhanced CT, MRI, and subsequent hepatic resection within 2 months. The percentages of CT/MRI LR-4/5 and LR-M in proliferative and non-proliferative HCCs were compared. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to assess the association of LI-RADS categories (LR-4/5 vs. LR-M) and pathologic classification (proliferative vs. non-proliferative) with overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Subgroups of patients with proliferative and non-proliferative HCCs were analyzed to compare OS and RFS between LR-4/5 and LR-M. Results: Of the 204 included patients, 38 were classified as having proliferative HCC. The percentages of LR-M were higher in proliferative than non-proliferative HCC on both CT (15.8% vs. 3.0%, p = 0.007) and MRI (26.3% vs. 9.6%, p = 0.016). Independent of pathologic classification, CT and MRI LR-M were significantly associated with poorer OS (hazard ratio (HR) = 4.58, p = 0.013, and HR = 6.45, p < 0.001) and RFS (HR = 3.66, p = 0.005, and HR = 6.44, p < 0.001) than LR-4/5. MRI LR-M was associated with significantly poorer OS (p ≤ 0.003) and RFS (p < 0.001) than MRI LR-4/5 in both proliferative and non-proliferative HCCs. Conclusions: This multi-reader study showed that the percentages of LR-M were significantly higher in proliferative than non-proliferative HCCs. CT/MRI LR-M was significantly associated with poor OS and RFS, independent of the pathologic classification of proliferative versus non-proliferative HCCs. Clinical relevance statement: CT and MRI LI-RADS category M can be clinically useful in predicting poor outcomes in patients with proliferative and non-proliferative hepatocellular carcinomas. Key Points: • The percentages of LR-M tumors on both CT and MRI were significantly higher in proliferative than non-proliferative hepatocellular carcinomas. • Independent of pathologic classification, CT/MRI LR-M categories were correlated with poor overall survival and recurrence-free survival. • Patients with both proliferative and non-proliferative hepatocellular carcinomas categorized as MRI LR-M had significantly poorer overall survival and recurrence-free survival than those categorized as MRI LR-4/5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of study was to employ the Cycle Generative Adversarial Network (CycleGAN) deep learning model to diminish the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow artifacts in cervical spine MRI. We also evaluate the agreement in quantifying spinal canal stenosis. Methods: For training model, we collected 9633 axial MR image pairs from 399 subjects. Then, additional 104 image pairs from 19 subjects were gathered for the test set. The deep learning model was developed using CycleGAN to reduce CSF flow artifacts, where T2 TSE images served as input, and T2 FFE images, known for fewer CSF flow artifacts. Post training, CycleGAN-generated images were subjected to both quantitative and qualitative evaluations for CSF artifacts. For assessing the agreement of spinal canal stenosis, four raters utilized an additional 104 pairs of original and CycleGAN-generated images, with inter-rater agreement evaluated using a weighted kappa value. Results: CSF flow artifacts were reduced in the CycleGAN-generated images compared to the T2 TSE and FFE images in both quantitative and qualitative analysis. All raters concordantly displayed satisfactory estimation results when assessing spinal canal stenosis using the CycleGAN-generated images with T2 TSE images (kappa = 0.61–0.75) compared to the original FFE with T2 TSE images (kappa = 0.48–0.71). Conclusions: CycleGAN demonstrated the capability to produce images with diminished CSF flow artifacts. When paired with T2 TSE images, the CycleGAN-generated images allowed for more consistent assessment of spinal canal stenosis and exhibited agreement levels that were comparable to the combination of T2 TSE and FFE images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TEAD transcription factors play a central role in the Hippo signaling pathway. In this study, we focused on transcriptional enhancer factor TEF‐3 (TEAD4), exploring its regulation by the deubiquitinase OTU domain‐containing protein 6A (OTUD6A). We identified OTUD6A as a TEAD4‐interacting deubiquitinase, positively influencing TEAD‐driven transcription without altering TEAD4 stability. Structural analyses revealed specific interaction domains: the N‐terminal domain of OTUD6A and the YAP‐binding domain of TEAD4. Functional assays demonstrated the positive impact of OTUD6A on the transcription of YAP–TEAD target genes. Despite no impact on TEAD4 nuclear localization, OTUD6A selectively modulated nuclear interactions, enhancing YAP–TEAD4 complex formation while suppressing VGLL4 (transcription cofactor vestigial‐like protein 4)–TEAD4 interaction. Critically, OTUD6A facilitated YAP–TEAD4 complex binding to target gene promoters. Our study unveils the regulatory landscape of OTUD6A on TEAD4, providing insights into diseases regulated by YAP–TEAD complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Differences in clinical efficacy based on the fluence of fractional picosecond laser treatment for acne scars are unknown. Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of low‐fluence versus high‐fluence fractional picosecond Nd:YAG 1064‐nm laser treatment in acne scar patients. Methods: In this 12‐week, investigator‐blinded, randomized, split‐face study, 25 patients with moderate‐to‐severe acne scars received three sessions of high‐fluence laser treatment (1.0 J/cm2) on one side of their face and low‐fluence (0.3 J/cm2) on the other side every 4 weeks. Patients were assessed using acne scar counts, the scar global assessment (SGA), and the ECCA scar grading scale every 4 weeks. The histological analysis compared the acne scars obtained before and 4 weeks after treatment. Results: At their last visit, 88.00% and 92.00% of the subjects achieved >30% reduction in scar counts on the low‐ and high‐fluence sides, respectively, without a significant difference between the two sides. On both sides, the scar counts, SGA, and ECCA score significantly improved 4 weeks after the last treatment. Although the high‐fluence side showed a greater reduction in scar counts (−66.73%) than the low‐fluence side (−62.13%), the two sides had no significant difference in the grading scores. The high‐fluence side showed significantly more severe pain and higher side‐effect scores immediately and 4 weeks after treatment. Histological analysis revealed a significantly increased collagen, elastin, and vimentin expression after treatment on the low‐fluence side. Conclusions: The low‐fluence setting demonstrated comparable efficacy and superior safety in treating acne scars compared with the high‐fluence setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated three-dimensional (3D) eyeball protrusion and its association with the offset between the lamina cribrosa (LC) and Bruch's membrane opening (BMO). 3D-MRI scans were taken from 93 subjects (186 eyes). An ellipsoid was fitted along the posterior 2/3 contour of each eyeball. Eyeball asymmetry with focal bulging was determined by the existence of an adjacent outward protrusion/reciprocal inward depression pair, and the angular deviation of the outermost protruded point (OPP) was measured from the nasal side of the fovea-BMO axis. The LC/BMO offset was evaluated by measuring the central retinal vascular trunk (CRVT) location from the BMO center: (1) the angular deviation and (2) the offset index as the ratio between the CRVT-BMO center distance and the BMO radius in the same direction. Seventy-nine eyes (42%) were classified as having eyeball asymmetry, which had a more superior LC/BMO offset (P < 0.001) and a larger offset index (P = 0.002). In those eyes, the angular deviation of the OPP showed a significant correlation with that of the LC/BMO offset (r = -0.724, P < 0.001), as did protrusion depth with the offset index (r = 0.291, P = 0.009). The presence of eyeball asymmetry was associated with superior LC/BMO offset (P = 0.004) and larger offset index (P = 0.009). Superior LC/BMO offset was associated with older age (P < 0.001), shorter axial length (P < 0.001) and inferior location of OPP (P < 0.001). The location and extent of focal bulging were closely associated with those of LC/BMO offset. This indicates that focal bulging during expansion might be associated with diverse directionality of LC/BMO offset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on cancer development, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), in individuals with concomitant fatty liver disease (FLD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Using data from Korea's Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, we performed Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and T2DM (NAFLD-T2DM cohort) and those with chronic viral hepatitis (CVH) alongside FLD and T2DM (FLD-T2DM-CVH cohort). In the propensity score (PS) matched NAFLD-T2DM cohort (N = 107,972), SGLT2i use was not associated with the occurrence of overall cancer, including HCC. However, old age, male sex, liver cirrhosis, and hypothyroidism were identified as independent risk factors for HCC occurrence, whereas statin and fibrate usage were associated with reduced HCC risk in this cohort in multivariate Cox analysis. In the PS-matched FLD-T2DM-CVH cohort (N = 2798), a significant decrease in HCC occurrence was observed among SGLT2i users (P = 0.03). This finding remained consistent in the multivariate Cox regression analysis (Hazard ratio = 2.21, 95% confidence interval = 1.01–4.85, P = 0.048). In conclusion, SGLT2i may be a beneficial option for diabetes management in patients with concomitant T2DM, FLD, and CVH while affirming the overall safety of SGLT2i in other types of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We aimed to assess the effects of different exercise modalities on cardiometabolic risk factors within a comprehensive, representative sample of the Korean population. Methods: We categorized 13,971 adult participants into aerobic exercise (AE), resistance exercise (RE), combined aerobic and resistance exercise (TE), insufficient exercise, and inactive groups. Multivariable regressions were conducted to compare the incidence of chronic diseases across the groups before and after propensity score matching (PSM). Results: The TE and RE groups had significantly lower waist circumference (WC), mean blood pressure (BP), glucose and insulin-related indices, and white blood cell count (WBC) measures, with TE showing the most significant differences. The TE group had significantly lower triglyceride levels and higher high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels. Post-PSM, the TE group had the lowest risk for metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and diabetes, closely followed by the RE group when compared with the inactive group. In a subgroup analysis, RE consistently exhibited benefits including lower body mass index, WC, BP, total cholesterol, glucose and insulin-related indices, and WBC count when compared with AE. RE may be associated with reduced incidence of cardiometabolic diseases compared to AE alone. Conclusion: TE appears to be associated with significant reduction in cardiometabolic risk in Korean adults. RE possibly provides a more favorable cardiometabolic effect than AE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The medical pricing system strongly influences physicians' job satisfaction and patient health outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the current relative value unit (RVU)-based pricing and utility of patients in commonly performed surgical procedures in South Korea. Methods: Fifteen common surgical procedures were selected from OECD statistics, and three additional orthopedic procedures were examined. The current pricing of each surgical procedure was retrieved from the Korea National Health Insurance Service, and the corresponding utilities were obtained as quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gains from previous studies. The relationship between the current prices (RVUs) and the patients' utility (incremental QALY gains/year) was analyzed. Subgroup analysis was performed between fatal and non-fatal procedures and between orthopedic and non-orthopedic procedures. Results: A significant negative correlation (r = − 0.558, p < 0.001) was observed between RVU and incremental QALY among all 18 procedures. The fatal subgroup had a significantly higher RVU than the non-fatal subgroup (p < 0.05), while the former had a significantly lower incremental QALY than the latter (p < 0.001). Orthopedic procedures showed higher incremental QALY values than non-orthopedic procedures, but they did not show higher prices (RVU). Conclusions: This paradoxical relationship between current prices and patient utility is attributed to the higher pricing of surgical procedures for fatal and urgent conditions. Orthopedic surgery has been found to be a cost-effective treatment strategy. These findings could contribute to a better understanding of the potential role of incremental QALY in pursuing value-based purchasing or reasonable modification of the current medical fee schedule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South Korea, the need to link fire and evacuation simulations to compare the available safety egress time (ASET) and required safety egress time (RSET) in real time when implementing performance-based design in buildings is increasing. Accordingly, the Consolidated Model of Fire Growth and Smoke Transport (CFAST) has been discussed as an alternative to the fire dynamics simulator, which requires high computational costs, sufficient experience in fire dynamics numerical calculations, and various input parameters and faces limitations in integration with evacuation simulations. A method for establishing a reasonable computational domain to predict the activation times of smoke and heat detectors has been proposed. This study examined the validity of using CFAST to predict factors relevant to the ASET evaluation. The results showed that CFAST, which solved empirical correlations based on heat release rates, predicted high gas temperatures similarly. Moreover, the applicability of the visibility distance calculation method using smoke concentration outputs from CFAST was examined. The results suggest that despite the limitations of the zone model, CFAST can produce reasonable ASET results. These results are expected to enhance the usability of CFAST in terms of understanding general fire engineering technology and simple fire dynamics trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To minimize the weight of automotive components, manufacturers have started to integrate large-scale Al automotive body parts. This large-area casting method is primarily based on large-scale die-casting. In particular, high-vacuum die-casting is being increasingly employed to obtain large-area castings with improved properties. However, this method requires intense heat treatment after casting and high vacuum in the mold cavity during the casting process. Moreover, the cavity vacuum of the mold is influenced by various variables such as the casting injection system, molds, and vacuum facilities. Therefore, optimal vacuum design considering these variables is crucial for achieving high quality and productivity in casting. In this study, we performed an analysis to determine how the chill vent gap and the sleeve-plunger clearance affects the vacuum degree of the mold cavity. The results show that the vacuum degree of the mold cavity and inner gas quantity decrease as the chill vent gap increases. Accordingly, tensile properties increase; at a vent gap of 1.50 mm, the tensile strength and elongation of the T6 treated specimens are the highest at 325.15 MPa and 2.26%, respectively. Conversely, the vacuum degree of the mold cavity and inner gas quantities increase with the clearance between the sleeve and plunger tip. Consequently, the tensile properties weaken. Moreover, beginning at a clearance of 0.25 mm, external air is drawn into the gap between the sleeve and plunger, thereby significantly increasing the amount of gas of N2 and O2. When the clearance between the sleeve and the plunger tip is 0.30 mm, the tensile strength and elongation of the T6 treated specimen are the lowest at 294.11 MPa and 1.20%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although prior attempts have failed to identify the beneficial effects of intensive fetal monitoring on cerebral palsy, the association between nonreassuring fetal status (NRFS) during labor and the incidence of long‐term neurodevelopmental delays in offspring remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate this association using a nationwide birth cohort. Methods: Data from 72 869 women with singleton deliveries at and after 37 weeks of gestation from the Japan Environment and Children's Study (2011–2014) were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to analyze the odds ratios (ORs) for neurodevelopmental delays using the Ages & Stages Questionnaire (Third Edition) in offspring aged 3 years. Results: The adjusted ORs for personal–social problems were 1.52 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06–2.16) for offspring delivered vaginally by nulliparous mothers and 1.51 (95% CI, 1.05–2.18) (for males, 1.70 [95% CI, 1.15–2.50]) for those delivered via cesarean section. No significant changes in adjusted ORs for neurodevelopmental delays were observed among participants without neonatal Apgar scores (ASs) <7 and without umbilical arterial pH (UmA‐pH) <7.20. Conclusion: NRFS during labor was associated with an increased incidence of personal–social problems in offspring aged 3 years. However, this association was not confirmed after excluding participants with neonatal ASs <7 and UmA‐pH <7.20. The association between NRFS and offspring's neurodevelopmental delays might vary based on delivery settings, offspring sex, and short‐term neonatal outcomes. Synopsis: Nonreassuring fetal status during labor in certain delivery settings is associated with an increased incidence of personal–social problems in offspring aged 3 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a study that examines the mechanical properties of spider webs using a simple model. The researchers investigated how the shape and tension distribution of the web changed under different conditions. They found that a spider web with a higher tension distribution ratio handles loads better but is more vulnerable to damage. The study also found that the loss of radial segments can reduce hunting efficiency. The researchers suggest that a spider web with a high tension distribution ratio and reliable radial segments would be a good choice. The study emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of studying spider webs and suggests potential areas for future research. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: The original eCura system was designed to stratify the risk of lymph node metastasis (LNM) after endoscopic resection (ER) in patients with early gastric cancer (EGC). We assessed the effectiveness of a modified eCura system for reflecting the characteristics of undifferentiated-type (UD)-EGC. Materials and Methods: Six hundred thirty-four patients who underwent non-curative ER for UD-EGC and received either additional surgery (radical surgery group; n=270) or no further treatment (no additional treatment group; n=364) from 18 institutions between 2005 and 2015 were retrospectively included in this study. The eCuraU system assigned 1 point each for tumors >20 mm in size, ulceration, positive vertical margin, and submucosal invasion <500 µm; 2 points for submucosal invasion ≥500 µm; and 3 points for lymphovascular invasion. Results: LNM rates in the radical surgery group were 1.1%, 5.4%, and 13.3% for the low- (0-1 point), intermediate- (2-3 points), and high-risk (4-8 points), respectively (P-fortrend<0.001). The eCuraU system showed a significantly higher probability of identifying patients with LNM as high-risk than the eCura system (66.7% vs. 22.2%; McNemar P<0.001). In the no additional treatment group, overall survival (93.4%, 87.2%, and 67.6% at 5 years) and cancer-specific survival (99.6%, 98.9%, and 92.9% at 5 years) differed significantly among the low-, intermediate-, and high-risk categories, respectively (both P<0.001). In the high-risk category, surgery outperformed no treatment in terms of overall mortality (hazard ratio, 3.26; P=0.015). Conclusions: The eCuraU system stratified the risk of LNM in patients with UD-EGC after ER. It is strongly recommended that high-risk patients undergo additional surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]