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Fiber‐based products constitute a significant portion of plastic waste and cause environmental damage. In particular, discarded sanitary masks and fishing gear disintegrate into microfiber plastics, posing a significant threat to human health and ecosystems. In this study, we developed robust biodegradable nanocomposite fibers of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT)/cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) (1 and 2 wt%) through dry‐jet wet spinning, by using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a common solvent. The control PBAT fibers exhibit remarkable mechanical performance with tensile strength and toughness of 160.0 MPa and 43.0 MJ m−3, respectively. CNC addition has a toughening effect with slightly reduced strength but enhanced toughness (148.8 MPa and 69.0 MJ m−3, respectively, for 2 wt% CNC); their mechanical performances are superior to those of previously reported PBAT‐based materials. The remarkable performance of the fibers is attributed to a highly oriented structure with a total draw ratio of 15 after post‐hot drawing. The control and nanocomposite fibers exhibit spot‐like patterns in 2D wide‐angle x‐ray diffraction patterns with Herman's orientation factor of 0.54–0.58. The theoretical Hansen solubility parameter confirmed the poor chemical affinity between the PBAT and CNC. Nonetheless, the rheological characterization revealed that well‐dispersed CNCs with DMSO produced a physical network in the PBAT matrix, resulting in the toughening effect. Such robust nanocomposite fibers consisting of fully biodegradable components are promising alternatives to nondegradable nylon and polyester fibers. Highlights: Robust biodegradable nanocomposite fibers of PBAT and CNC are prepared.Nanocomposite fibers are dry‐jet wet spun using DMSO as a common solvent.PBAT fibers exhibit strength and toughness of 160.0 MPa and 43.0 MJ m−3.2 wt% CNC toughens the PBAT fibers with an enhanced toughness of 69.0 MJ m−3.Rheological results confirm the toughening effect of well‐dispersed CNC in PBAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Our review of 52 RCTs from 5 databases suggests a tendency for notable improvement in BMD when combining herbal medicine with supplements (calcium and vitamin D variants) compared to supplement monotherapy in primary osteoporosis. However, caution is needed in interpreting results due to substantial heterogeneity among included studies. Purpose: To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether herbal medicine (HM) plus supplements such as calcium (Ca) or vitamin D (Vit.D) improves bone mineral density (BMD) compared to supplements alone in primary osteoporosis (OP) patients. Methods: We searched 5 databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using HMs with supplements (Ca or Vit.D variants) as interventions for primary OP patients published until August 31, 2022. Meta-analysis using BMD score as the primary outcome was performed using RevMan 5.4 version. Risk of bias in the included studies was assessed useing RoB 2.0 tool. Results: In total, 52 RCTs involving 4,889 participants (1,408 men, 3,481 women) were included, with average BMD scores of 0.690 ± 0.095 g/cm2 (lumbar) and 0.625 ± 0.090 g/cm2 (femoral neck). As a result of performing meta-analysis using BMD scores for all 52 RCTs included in this review, combination of HMs with Ca and Vit.D variants improved the BMD score by 0.08 g/cm2 (lumbar, 38 RCTs, 95% CI: 0.06–0.10, p < 0.001, I2 = 97%) and 0.06 g/cm2 (femoral neck, 19 RCTs, 95% CI: 0.04–0.08, p < 0.001, I2 = 92%)compared to controls. However, statistical significance of the lumbar BMD improvement disappeared after adjusting for potential publication bias. Conclusion: Our data suggest that combining of HM and supplements tends to be more effective in improving BMD in primary OP than supplements alone. However, caution is needed in interpretation due to the reporting bias and high heterogeneity among studies, and well-designed RCTs are required in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depth estimation tries to obtain 3D scene geometry from low-dimensional data like 2D images. This is a vital operation in computer vision and any general solution must preserve all depth information of potential relevance to support higher-level tasks. For scenes with well-defined depth, this work shows that multi-view edges can encode all relevant information—that multi-view edges are complete. For this, we follow Elder's complementary work on the completeness of 2D edges for image reconstruction. We deploy an image-space geometric representation: an encoding of multi-view scene edges as constraints and a diffusion reconstruction method for inverting this code into depth maps. Due to inaccurate constraints, diffusion-based methods have previously underperformed against deep learning methods; however, we will reassess the value of diffusion-based methods and show their competitiveness without requiring training data. To begin, we work with structured light fields and epipolar plane images (EPIs). EPIs present high-gradient edges in the angular domain: with correct processing, EPIs provide depth constraints with accurate occlusion boundaries and view consistency. Then, we present a differentiable representation form that allows the constraints and the diffusion reconstruction to be optimized in an unsupervised way via a multi-view reconstruction loss. This is based around point splatting via radiative transport, and extends to unstructured multi-view images. We evaluate our reconstructions for accuracy, occlusion handling, view consistency, and sparsity to show that they retain the geometric information required for higher-level tasks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to reveal the relationship of the days of experiencing sickness presentism and depressive symptoms among Korean workers. Sickness presenteeism which defined as the act of going to work despite being feeling unhealthy triggers various adverse effects on mental health, including increased risks of depression. Furthermore, Sickness presenteeism is a major social issue causing substantial socioeconomic costs. Methods: The data of 25120 participants from sixth Korean Working Condition Survey was utilized in this cross-sectional study. Sickness presenteeism was defined using a self-reported questionnaire and depressive symptoms were assessed by WHO well-being index. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to calculate the odd ratios for depressive symptoms regarding the number of days experiencing sickness presenteeism. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for depressive symptoms after categorizing participants into three groups based on the duration of experiencing sickness presenteeism, using cut-off values of 3 and 5 days. Results: Workers who have experienced sickness presenteeism for more than 5 days were at highest risk for depressive symptoms than referent group (OR 2.87; 95% CI 2.17–3.76 in male, OR 3.86; 95% CI 3.02–4.91 in female). Furthermore, there was a trend of increasing risk for depressive symptom as the duration of experiencing sickness presenteeism extended. Conclusion: This study presents the association between experiencing sickness presenteeism in the previous 12 months and depressive symptoms. Based on the results, we provide individual and organizational strategies of reducing sickness presenteeism. Also, screening for workers who have experienced sickness presenteeism are needed to ensure good mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of intravenous palonosetron compared to ondansetron on hypotension induced by spinal anesthesia in women undergoing cesarean section. Methods: Fifty-four women scheduled for elective cesarean section were, randomly allocated to ondansetron group (n = 27) or palonosetron group (n = 27). Ten minutes prior to the administration of spinal anesthesia, participants received an intravenous injection of either ondansetron or palonosetron. A prophylactic phenylephrine infusion was initiated immediately following the intrathecal administration of bupivacaine and fentanyl. The infusion rate was titrated to maintain adequate blood pressure until the time of fetal delivery. The primary outcome was total dose of phenylephrine administered. The secondary outcomes were nausea or vomiting, the need for rescue antiemetics, hypotension, bradycardia, and shivering. Complete response rate, defined as the absence of postoperative nausea and vomiting and no need for additional antiemetics, were assessed for up to 24 hours post-surgery. Results: No significant differences were observed in the total dose of phenylephrine used between the ondansetron and palonosetron groups (387.5 μg [interquartile range, 291.3–507.8 μg versus 428.0 μg [interquartile range, 305.0–507.0 μg], P = 0.42). Complete response rates also showed no significant differences between the groups both within two hours post-spinal anesthesia (88.9% in the ondansetron group versus 100% in the palonosetron group; P = 0.24) and at 24 hours post-surgery (81.5% in the ondansetron group versus 88.8% in the palonosetron group; P = 0.7). In addition, there was no difference in other secondary outcomes. Conclusion: Prophylactic administration of palonosetron did not demonstrate a superior effect over ondansetron in mitigating hemodynamic changes or reducing phenylephrine requirements in patients undergoing spinal anesthesia with bupivacaine and fentanyl for cesarean section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urea oxidation reaction (UOR) has been utilized to substitute the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), to escalate the energy conversion efficiency in electrochemical hydrogen generation processes with denitrification of widespread urea in wastewater. This study reports breakthroughs in Ni‐based UOR electrocatalysts, particularly with NiFe oxalate (O‐NFF), derived from Ni3Fe alloy foam with prismatic nanostructures and elevated surface area. The O‐NFF achieves cutting‐edge performances, representing 500 mA cm−2 of current density at 1.47 V RHE and exceptionally low Tafel slope of 12.1 mV dec−1 (in 1 m KOH with 0.33 m urea). X‐ray photoelectron/absorption spectroscopy (XPS/XAS) coupled with density functional theory calculations unveil that oxalate ligands induce charge deficient Ni center, promoting stable urea‐O adsorption. Furthermore, Fe dopants enhance oxalate‐O charge density and H‐bond strength, facilitating C‐N cleavage for N2 and NO2− formation. The extraordinary UOR kinetics by the tandem effects of oxalate and Fe prevent Ni over‐oxidation, corroborated by operando XAS, minimizing OER interference. It agrees with an adaptive reconstruction to Fe‐doped β‐NiOOH on top surface in extended urea electrolysis with marginal loss in UOR kinetics. This findings shed light to bimetal‐organic‐framework as (pre)catalysts to improve industrial electrolytic H2 production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To examine the ability of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) to answer patients' questions regarding colorectal cancer (CRC). Methods: Ten clinically relevant questions about CRC were selected from top-rated hospitals' websites and patient surveys and presented to three GAI tools (Chatbot Generative Pre-Trained Transformer [GPT-4], Google Bard, and CLOVA X). Their responses were compared with answers from the CRC information book. Response evaluation was performed by two groups, each consisting of five healthcare professionals (HCP) and patients. Each question was scored on a 1–5 Likert scale based on four evaluation criteria (maximum score, 20 points/question). Results: In an analysis including only HCPs, the information book scored 11.8 ± 1.2, GPT-4 scored 13.5 ± 1.1, Google Bard scored 11.5 ± 0.7, and CLOVA X scored 12.2 ± 1.4 (P = 0.001). The score of GPT-4 was significantly higher than those of the information book (P = 0.020) and Google Bard (P = 0.001). In an analysis including only patients, the information book scored 14.1 ± 1.4, GPT-4 scored 15.2 ± 1.8, Google Bard scored 15.5 ± 1.8, and CLOVA X scored 14.4 ± 1.8, without significant differences (P = 0.234). When both groups of evaluators were included, the information book scored 13.0 ± 0.9, GPT-4 scored 14.4 ± 1.2, Google Bard scored 13.5 ± 1.0, and CLOVA X scored 13.3 ± 1.5 (P = 0.070). Conclusion: The three GAIs demonstrated similar or better communicative competence than the information book regarding questions related to CRC surgery in Korean. If high-quality medical information provided by GAI is supervised properly by HCPs and published as an information book, it could be helpful for patients to obtain accurate information and make informed decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on reducing the weight of the stack applied to the unit cell during the structuring process of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack. By using a porous Ag coating layer as a current collector, separator plates and connectors are eliminated and the manufacturing cost of the stack can thereby be reduced. Additionally, the performance and stability of the stack are significantly improved by reducing the contact resistance between cells. The Ag coating layer used in this study can be optimized by adjusting the coating thickness and the ratio of graphene and Ag paste, which affects dispersibility and porosity. The optimized Ag porous coating layer makes it possible to manufacture a stack cell with a simple structure without requiring a separator, and excellent performance is confirmed in a long-term test of 4000 h. [Display omitted] • Highlights (for review). • Reduced stack weight and manufacturing costs through porous Ag coating as a current collector. • Eliminated separator plates and connectors, enhancing stack performance and stability. • Optimized Ag porous coating layer for simplified stack cell structure and improved performance. • Demonstrated excellent long-term performance in a 4000-h test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant crop pest, Mythimna loreyi, migrates annually to Korea and has been frequently observed in rice and corn fields. However, the phenology of this pest, particularly in relation to its ecological interactions and host crop seasons in Korea, remains poorly understood. This study aims to clarify the timing of the second generation of M. loreyi in Korea to enhance pest management strategies. To achieve this, we developed temperature-dependent models for developmental and ovipositional rates, studying these processes across five constant temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, and 35°C). Our models, which showed a high correlation with observed data (r2 ≥ 0.93), include a theoretical approach that combines the developmental variation of immatures with the necessary degree-days for 50% egg laying and complete egg development. These predictions allow for the forecasting of the second generation's occurrence, with relatively small deviations (one to three days) observed at two different field sites. The insights from this study are critical for both understanding the ecology of M. loreyi and for informing practical management decisions, such as optimal placement of barriers to prevent immigration and strategies for controlling local populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postoperative urinary retention (POUR), a common condition after prolapse surgery with potential serious sequelae if left untreated, lacks a clearly established optimal timing for catheter removal. This study aimed to develop and validate a predictive model for postoperative urinary retention lasting > 2 and > 4 days after prolapse surgery. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of 1,122 patients undergoing prolapse surgery. The dataset was divided into training and testing cohorts. POUR was defined as the need for continuous intermittent catheterization resulting from a failed spontaneous voiding trial, with passing defined as two consecutive voids ≥ 150 mL and a postvoid residual urine volume ≤ 150 mL. We performed logistic regression and the predicted model was validated using both training and testing cohorts. Results: Among patients, 31% and 12% experienced POUR lasting > 2 and > 4 days, respectively. Multivariable logistic model identified 6 predictors. For predicting POUR, internal validation using cross-validation approach showed good performance, with accuracy lasting > 2 (area under the curve [AUC] 0.73) and > 4 days (AUC 0.75). Split validation using pre-separated dataset also showed good performance, with accuracy lasting > 2 (AUC 0.73) and > 4 days (AUC 0.74). Calibration curves demonstrated that the model accurately predicted POUR lasting > 2 and > 4 days (from 0 to 80%). Conclusions: The proposed prediction model can assist clinicians in personalizing postoperative bladder care for patients undergoing prolapse surgery by providing accurate individual risk estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large language models (LLMs) have the ability to generate text by stringing together words from their extensive training data. The leading AI text generation tool built on LLMs, ChatGPT, has quickly grown a vast user base since its release, but the domains in which it is being heavily leveraged are not yet known to the public. To understand how generative AI is reshaping print media and the extent to which it is being implemented already, methods to distinguish human-generated text from that generated by AI are required. Since college students have been early adopters of ChatGPT, we sought to study the presence of generative AI in newspaper articles written by collegiate journalists. To achieve this objective, an accurate AI detection model is needed. Herein, we analyzed university newspaper articles from different universities to determine whether ChatGPT was used to write or edit the news articles. We developed a detection model using classical machine learning and used the model to detect AI usage in the news articles. The detection model showcased a 93% accuracy in the training data and had a similar performance in the test set, demonstrating effectiveness in AI detection above existing state-of-the-art detection tools. Finally, the model was applied to the task of searching for generative AI usage in 2023, and we found that ChatGPT was not used to revise articles to any appreciable measure to write university news articles at the schools we studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Status epilepticus (SE) is a critical neurological emergency in patients with neurological and nonneurological diseases. Mortality rises with SE severity. However, whether brain injury or systemic organ dysfunction causes death after SE remains unclear. We studied clinical outcomes and systemic dysfunctions associated with SE using standardized data from the common data model. This model includes clinical evaluations and treatments that provide real-world evidence for standard practice. Methods: This retrospective cohort study used the common data model database of a single tertiary academic medical center. Patients diagnosed with SE (corresponding to G41 of the International Classification of Diseases 10 and administration of antiseizure medication) between January 1, 2001, and January 1, 2018, were enrolled. Demographics, classifications of SE severity, and outcomes were collected as operational definitions by using a common data model format. Systemic complications were defined based on the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment criteria. Results: The electronic medical records of 1,825,196 patients were transformed into a common data model, and 410 patients were enrolled. The proportion of patients classified as having nonrefractory SE was 65.4% (268/410), followed by refractory (28.5%, 117/410) and super-refractory SE (6.1%, 25/410). Patients with more severe SE had longer intensive care unit and hospital stays. Renal dysfunction and thrombocytopenia were higher in the in-hospital death group (P = 0.002 and 0.003, respectively). In multivariable analysis, the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score and platelet count were significantly different in the in-hospital death group (odds ratio, 1.169, P = 0.004; and 0.989, P = 0.043). Conclusions: Systemic complications after SE, especially low platelet counts, were linked to worse outcomes and increased mortality in a common data model. The common data model offers expandability and comprehensive analysis, making it a potentially valuable tool for SE research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanoluminescence (ML) is luminescence induced due to mechanical stress, providing intuitive responses to strain‐related events. Piezoelectricity is the conversion of mechanical strain into electrical signals, offering a quantitative measurement of force/deformation. Combining ML and piezoelectricity within a single device provides a comprehensive understanding of mechanical events, providing qualitative and quantitative information about strain‐related phenomena. A ZnS:Cu/polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite and a biocompatible silk fibroin/PDMS composite are prepared to generate ML and electrical signals, respectively. An innovative method for obtaining powder from silk fabrics is employed. The microstructure and composition of silk fibroin powder are also examined via X‐ray diffraction and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Mechanical stimuli such as pressure, stretching, twisting, bending, vibration, and rubbing are applied to the device to demonstrate optical and electrical responses. Under pressure, a voltage of 3.82 V and an output current of 201.6 nA are generated at a force of 1 N. Furthermore, a handwritten test is conducted to qualitatively visualize letters based on ML effects and explore the feasibility of using artificial intelligence to classify voltage signals generated during writing into their corresponding letters. This biocompatible, dual‐modal self‐powered sensor demonstrates broad applicability in wearable technology, biomechanics, human–machine interaction, security, and energy harvesting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of red light‐emitting diode (LED) light irradiation (630 nm, 0.5 W/m2) and melatonin (10−8 and 10−7 M) on oxidative stress and physiological responses in abalones exposed to high temperatures (28°C) were investigated. Changes in messenger RNA (mRNA) expressions of melatonin receptor (MT‐R), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), and antioxidant enzymes, as well as alterations in H2O2 levels in the hemolymph, were examined. The results revealed that high‐temperature‐stressed abalones treated with melatonin injections or exposed to red LED light showed a significant increase in MT‐R mRNA expression, while HSP70 mRNA expression decreased. Notably, HSP70 mRNA expression levels in the red LED light‐irradiated group were similar to those in the group injected with 10−8 M melatonin after 24 h exposure. Abalones treated with melatonin at 20°C or irradiated with red LED light exhibited decreased H2O2 levels and reduced antioxidant enzyme mRNA expression compared with those of the control group. However, the high‐temperature environment induced oxidative stress in abalones, leading to increased antioxidant enzyme mRNA expression compared with that under 20°C conditions. Moreover, abalones exposed to high‐temperature stress exhibited hepatopancreatic DNA damage, which was attenuated by melatonin treatment or red LED light irradiation. Hence, red LED light reduces oxidative stress, boosts antioxidant enzymes, and alleviates DNA damage in high‐temperature‐stressed abalones, akin to 10−8 M melatonin treatment. Therefore, considering the practical challenges of continuous melatonin administration to abalones, utilizing red LED light emerges as a practical, effective alternative to protect abalones from oxidative stress compared to 10−8 M melatonin treatment. Research Highlights: High‐temperature stressed abalone responses to melatonin and red light were assessed.Red LED light irradiation increased abalone antioxidant enzyme expression levels.Melatonin or red LED light treatment attenuated hepatopancreatic DNA damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 infection and subsequent quarantine experiences during the pandemic may have profoundly affected many aspects of life among COVID-19 survivors. However, limited research has explored the changes these survivors experienced once they returned to their daily lives. This study aimed to explore COVID-19 survivors' psychosocial impacts and their lives following infection and social quarantine during the initial phase of the pandemic in South Korea. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted in June 2021, involving 15 COVID-19 survivors. All participants contracted COVID-19 between February 2020 and April 2021 in South Korea. This study used a qualitative methodology from phenomelogical perspectives to explore and understand the participants' shared lived experiences. Thematic analysis identified four overarching themes and 12 subthemes among Korean COVID-19 survivors: (a) self-concept transformation; (b) changed relationship dynamics; (c) life perspective shifts; and (d) health awareness evolution. Recognizing the life changes experienced by COVID-19 survivors can inform the development of targeted peer support services and person-centered education. Focusing on health awareness and empowerment, these initiatives can promote personal growth, facilitate positive changes, and alleviate traumatic experiences for future survivors of diverse infectious diseases. Future research could investigate the long-term impact of COVID-19 on individuals' lives and explore the mechanisms underlying these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a topical emollient in treating mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) in adolescents and adults. The study involved 100 participants and lasted for 24 weeks. The results showed that the group using the emollient had significant improvements in various measures compared to the placebo group. No safety concerns were reported. However, the study had limitations and further research is needed to explore other aspects of AD and the effects of the emollient. Overall, the emollient shows promise as a therapeutic option for long-term care of AD patients. [Extracted from the article]

Transition metal oxides are considered alternative electrocatalysts for ZAB owing to their multiple oxidation states. However, they have limitations such as low electrical conductivity and the deficiency of reactive sites. In this study, to overcome these shortcomings and improve electrocatalytic activity, oxygen vacancies and porous architectures were introduced through a partial reduction process and a porous carbon framework. Open porous carbon microspheres with uniformly loaded NiCo2O4 nanosheets and oxygen vacancies (V-NCO/OPC) displayed enhanced electrocatalytic performance with a low Tafel slope (68 mV dec-1) in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and a low overpotential (402 mV) at 10 mA cm–2 in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The combined effect of the oxygen vacancies and porous architecture can offer sufficient active sites, modify the electronic structure of the metal oxide surface, and facilitate mass transport, enhancing the electrocatalytic properties of V-NCO/OPC. Furthermore, when applied for ZAB, V-NCO/OPC demonstrated better electrochemical performance including discharge power density (154.9 mW cm-2) at the current density of 175.9 mA cm-2, low voltage gap (0.85 V) at the initial cycle, and long-term (250 h) cycle stability at the current density of 10 mA cm−2 than those of noble-metal electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Extrauterine growth restriction (EUGR) is associated with high mortality and an increased incidence of poor neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants. In this study, we aimed to compare the Intergrowth-21ST (IG-21ST) and Fenton charts in predicting long-term neurodevelopmental and anthropometric outcomes of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Methods: Data were collected from 2649 VLBW infants registered in the Korean Neonatal Network born between 240/7 and 316/7 weeks of gestational age from January 2013 to December 2017. Follow-up assessments were conducted at 18–24 months of age, corrected for prematurity. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between EUGR and long-term outcomes. Results: Among the 2649 VLBW infants, 60.0% (1606/2649) and 36.9% (977/2649) were diagnosed as having EUGR defined by the Fenton chart (EUGRF) and by the IG-21ST chart (EUGRIG), respectively. The EUGRIG group exhibited a higher proportion of infants with cerebral palsy, neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI), and growth failure. In multiple logistic regression analysis, adjusted for risk factors for long-term outcome, the EUGRIG group showed higher risk of cerebral palsy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04–2.65), NDI (aOR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.71–2.55), and growth failure (aOR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.16–2.13). Infants with EUGRF tended to develop NDI (aOR, 1.29; 95%CI, 1.03–1.63) and experience growth failure (aOR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.77–3.40). Conclusions: The IG-21ST chart demonstrated a more effective prediction of long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, whereas the Fenton chart may be more suitable for predicting growth failure at 18–24 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar ultraviolet (sUV) exposure is known to cause skin damage. However, the pathological mechanisms of sUV on hair follicles have not been extensively explored. Here, we established a model of sUV-exposed skin and its appendages using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived skin organoids with planar morphology containing hair follicles. Our model closely recapitulated several symptoms of photodamage, including skin barrier disruption, extracellular matrix degradation, and inflammatory response. Specifically, sUV induced structural damage and catagenic transition in hair follicles. As a potential therapeutic agent for hair follicles, we applied exosomes isolated from human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells to sUV-exposed organoids. As a result, exosomes effectively alleviated inflammatory responses by inhibiting NF-κB activation, thereby suppressing structural damage and promoting hair follicle regeneration. Ultimately, our model provided a valuable platform to mimic skin diseases, particularly those involving hair follicles, and to evaluate the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of potential therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined how violent scenes and words used in action- and non-action-oriented webcomics were associated with the frequency by which violent words were used in readers' online comments. Data on the webcomics provided by Naver, a popular webcomics provider, were analyzed with computational approaches. Primary results were as follows: there was a positive relationship between the number of violent words used in a webcomic and that of violent comments regardless of genre, and the effects of violent scenes on the number of violent comments were statistically insignificant regardless of the types of webcomics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accurate identification of fetal growth restriction in fetal autopsy is critical for assessing causes of death. We examined the impact of using a chart derived from ultrasound measurements of healthy fetuses (World Health Organization fetal growth chart) versus a chart commonly used by pathologists (Archie et al.) derived from fetal autopsy-based populations in diagnosing small-for-gestational-age (SGA) birth in perinatal deaths. Study Design: We examined perinatal deaths that underwent autopsy at BC Women's Hospital, 2015-2021. Weight centiles were assigned using the ultrasound-based fetal growth chart for birthweight and autopsy-based growth chart for autopsy weight. Results: Among 352 fetuses, 30% were SGA based on the ultrasound-based fetal growth chart versus 17% using the autopsy-based growth chart (p < 0.001). Weight centiles were lower when using the ultrasound-based versus autopsy-based growth chart (median difference of 9 centiles [IQR 2, 20]). Conclusions: Autopsy-based growth charts may under-classify SGA status compared to ultrasound-based fetal growth charts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot platforms are increasingly used by patients as sources of information. However, there is limited data on the performance of these platforms, especially regarding palliative care terms. We evaluated the accuracy, comprehensiveness, reliability, and readability of three AI platforms in defining and differentiating "palliative care," "supportive care," and "hospice care." We asked ChatGPT, Microsoft Bing Chat, Google Bard to define and differentiate "palliative care," "supportive care," and "hospice care" and provide three references. Outputs were randomized and assessed by six blinded palliative care physicians using 0–10 scales (10 = best) for accuracy, comprehensiveness, and reliability. Readability was assessed using Flesch Kincaid Grade Level and Flesch Reading Ease scores. The mean (SD) accuracy scores for ChatGPT, Bard, and Bing Chat were 9.1 (1.3), 8.7 (1.5), and 8.2 (1.7), respectively; for comprehensiveness, the scores for the three platforms were 8.7 (1.5), 8.1 (1.9), and 5.6 (2.0), respectively; for reliability, the scores were 6.3 (2.5), 3.2 (3.1), and 7.1 (2.4), respectively. Despite generally high accuracy, we identified some major errors (e.g., Bard stated that supportive care had "the goal of prolonging life or even achieving a cure"). We found several major omissions, particularly with Bing Chat (e.g., no mention of interdisciplinary teams in palliative care or hospice care). References were often unreliable. Readability scores did not meet recommended levels for patient educational materials. We identified important concerns regarding the accuracy, comprehensiveness, reliability, and readability of outputs from AI platforms. Further research is needed to improve their performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reaction characteristics of the SO2 oxidation catalyst by the catalyst preparation method were analyzed by investigating the catalyst properties on the TiO2 support using a vanadium-alkali (K) compound containing the catalyst. The slurry mix method and the dry ball milling method were used for the production of the catalyst. In this process, the difference in interaction between the active material (V) and the support (TiO2) has been confirmed. Especially, the high proportion of non-stoichiometric species of the initial catalyst reflects the high interaction between vanadium and TiO2. Therefore, an increase in non-stoichiometric species such as V4+ indicates an increase in the interaction between TiO2 and V2O5. In particular, the interaction between the support-active material improves the transfer of SO2 adsorbed on the support TiO2 to the active material (V2O5). Therefore, it induces the production of a high proportion of the active substance (VVO)2O(SO4)44− and consequently increases the SO2 oxidation performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate predictive value of the myopia growth chart based on population-based health survey data using longitudinal cohorts. Methods: Patients aged from 5 to 18 years and underwent two or more cycloplegic refraction (CR) exams with at least one year of interval were included. Percentile deviation was calculated by subtracting percentile at final exam from the percentile at initial exam based on the chart. Spherical equivalent (SE) deviation was calculated by SE at final CR subtracted from predicted SE based on initial CR using the chart. Results: 2310 eyes from 1155 subjects were included. There were 1344 eyes (58.2%) categorized as inliers, where both initial and final CR were within the 2nd to 99th percentile. Mean percentile and SE deviations were + 11.0 ± 22.9 percentiles and -0.60 ± 1.33 diopters, each. Outliers, those except the inliers, were 966 eyes (41.8%). Most outliers (709 eyes, 73.4%) were outside the chart for both initial and final exam. The rest of the outliers (257 eyes, 26.2%) were within the 2 to 99 percentile range on the chart at least once, either at initial or final exams; most of those (202 eyes, 78.6%) progressed toward myopia more than predicted. Conclusions: In our large cohorts, both inliers and outliers tended to progress toward more myopia than predicted from the chart. This suggests the chart predicts childhood myopia rather conservatively. The myopia growth chart may be useful as a screening tool in detecting children at high risk of developing high myopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional diversity research enhances our understanding of ecosystems and both their functioning and their responses to environmental variations. This study investigated the biological trait responses of benthic invertebrate communities to various environmental conditions in estuarine habitats. We analyzed benthic macroinvertebrate communities in freshwater and estuarine environments to compare their characteristics between estuary sites with and without artificial barriers. Moreover, we combined taxonomic analyses (species richness, abundance, and four community indices) with functional diversity indices and biological trait analyses. The major results are as follows: (i) the most important environmental factors shaping species distribution in estuarine habitats were salinity and electrical conductivity; (ii) comparing functional diversity indices, tidal estuaries revealed that seawater intrusion induced changes in species distribution and the dispersion of benthic macroinvertebrates; (iii) the presence or absence of artificial barriers in estuaries affected biological traits owing to the influence of specific functional strategies of certain species. Consequently, the presence or absence of artificial barriers in estuaries can lead to significant changes in habitat connectivity and functional diversity related to ecosystem functions. These findings indicate that the presence of artificial barriers can significantly influence the ecological dynamics of estuarine ecosystems, thereby affecting species distribution, functional diversity and habitat connectivity. Understanding these effects contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of ecosystem functionings, as it complements existing taxonomic findings and integrates information about the functional aspects of diverse ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Phase diagram of ternary Na 2 O-B 2 O 3 -ZnO system was investigated for the first time using the classical equilibration/quenching method and differential thermal analysis followed by the phase analysis using the Electron Probe Micro-Analysis (EPMA) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). The isothermal phase diagrams of this ternary system at 900, 1000 and 1100 °C were determined, and the melting temperatures of two ternary compounds were investigated using Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA). The thermodynamic modeling of ternary Na 2 O-B 2 O 3 -ZnO system was carried out based on the present ternary phase diagram data and the optimized model parameters of binary systems. Thermodynamic models with optimized model parameters were used to predict the phase diagram of the ternary Na 2 O-B 2 O 3 -ZnO system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the common CT findings of high-grade (HG) PanIN and clinical effects in the remnant pancreas in patients with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas. Materials and methods: Two hundred fifty-one patients with surgically confirmed IPMNs (118 malignant [invasive carcinoma/high-grade dysplasia] and 133 benign [low-grade dysplasia]) were retrospectively enrolled. The grade of PanIN (233 absent/low-grade and 18 high-grade) was recorded, and all patients underwent serial CT follow-up before and after surgery. Two radiologists analyzed CT findings of high-risk stigmata or worrisome features according to 2017 international consensus guidelines. They also analyzed tumor recurrence on serial follow-up CT after surgery. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant predictors and clinical impact on postoperative outcomes of HG PanIN. Results: PanIN grade showed a significant association with IPMN grade (p = 0.012). Enhancing mural nodules ≥5 mm, abrupt main pancreatic duct (MPD) changes with distal pancreatic atrophy, increased mural nodule size and MPD diameter were common findings in HG PanIN (P<0.05). In multivariate analysis, abrupt MPD change with distal pancreatic atrophy (odds ratio (OR) 6.59, 95% CI: 2.32–18.72, <0.001) and mural nodule size (OR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.02–1.08, 0.004) were important predictors for HG PanIN. During postoperative follow-up, HG PanIN (OR, 4.98; 95% CI, 1.22–20.33, 0.025) was significantly associated with cancer recurrence in the remnant pancreas. Conclusion: CT can be useful for predicting HG PanIN using common features, such as abrupt MPD changes and mural nodules. In HG PanIN, extra caution is needed to monitor postoperative recurrence during follow-up. [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]

This study aimed to identify underlying demographic and clinical characteristics among individuals who had previously attempted suicide, utilizing the comprehensive Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) database. Data of patients aged 18 and above who had attempted suicide between January 1 and December 31, 2014, recorded in HIRA, were extracted. The index date was identified when a suicide attempt was made within the year 2014. The medical history of the three years before the index date and seven years of follow-up data after the index date were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier estimate was used to infer reattempt of the suicide attempters, and Cox-proportional hazard analysis was used to investigate risk factors associated with suicide reattempts. A total of 17,026 suicide attempters were identified, of which 1,853 (10.9%) reattempted suicide; 4,925 (28.9%) patients had been diagnosed with depressive disorder. Of the reattempters, 391 (21.1%) demonstrated a history of suicide attempts in the three years before the index date, and the mean number of prior attempts was higher compared to that of the non-reattempters (1.7 vs.1.3, p-value < 0.01). Prior psychiatric medication, polypharmacy, and an increase in the number of psychotropics were associated with suicide reattempt in overall suicide attempters. (Hazard ratio (HR) = 3.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.56–4.00; HR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.87–3.14; HR = 19.66, 95% CI = 15.22–25.39 respectively). The risk of reattempt decreased in individuals receiving antidepressant prescriptions compared to those unmedicated, showing a reduction of 78% when prescribed by non-psychiatrists and 89% when prescribed by psychiatrists. Similar risk factors for suicide reattempts were observed in the depressive disorder subgroup, but the median time to reattempt was shorter (556.5 days) for this group compared to that for the overall attempters (578 days). Various risk factors including demographics, clinical characteristics, and medications should be considered to prevent suicide reattempts among suicide attempters, and patients with depressive disorder should be monitored more closely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In the field of veterinary science and animal husbandry, a sow that has given birth more than once is considered "multiparous". Sows are classified as nulliparous from the moment they arrive at the farm until their first farrowing. During this time, they are frequently referred to as "primiparous". Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) plasmid administration had significant effects on serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels, birth outcomes, and weaning parameters across different sow categories, indicating its potential for enhancing reproductive performance and postnatal outcomes in sows. Specifically, it affected live births, survival rates, and weaning success without notable effects on birth weight. The effect of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) plasmid treatment on sow reproductive performance was examined. Forty pregnant sows (three-way crossbreed: Landrace × Yorkshire × Duroc) at 85 days of gestation were included in the study and consisted of twenty primiparous and twenty multiparous sows (third parity). Sows were randomly assigned to the control and treatment groups. The treatment group received 5 mg dose of GHRH plasmid injection via electroporation, whereas the control group received a phosphate buffer solution. Reproductive indicators, including serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) concentration and weaned piglet data, were assessed. In the GHRH plasmid-treated group, serum IGF-1 concentration significantly increased compared with that in the control group, a trend observed in primiparous and multiparous sows. The key indicator of reproductive performance, litter size, showed that for control primiparous sows (C-PS), it was 10.90 ± 0.99 kg, while for control multiparous sows (C-MS), it was 14.00 ± 0.67 kg. Furthermore, for primiparous sows treated with GHRH plasmid (G-PS), the litter size was 11.60 ± 0.97 kg, and for multiparous sows treated with GHRH plasmid (G-MS), it was 14.00 ± 0.82 kg. The GHRH plasmid-treated group also exhibited a higher number of total births and surviving piglet numbers, along with a decrease in stillborn piglets; however, there was no significant difference in birth weight. The results suggest that GHRH plasmid treatment can enhance the reproductive performance of sows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Coronary artery disease (CAD) has a high mortality rate worldwide, and continuous health behavior practice and careful management are required owing to risks such as rapid changes in symptoms and emergency hospitalization. The utilization of health-related information is an important factor for long-term disease management in patients with CAD. For this purpose, an understanding of health information-seeking behavior is needed first. Methods: This study analyzed data from the 2021 Korea Medical Panel Survey, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to confirm the factors influencing the health information-seeking behavior of patients with CAD. Results: The health information-seeking behavior of patients with CAD differed according to demographic characteristics, and differences in preferred information use were confirmed. Finally, it was identified that insufficient levels of health literacy were a major reason for CAD patients not engaging in health information-seeking behaviors (OR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.09–0.33; p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study suggests that to improve health information-seeking behaviors, the application of education and intervention programs to increase the level of health literacy is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative alkene functionalization reactions are a fundamental class of complexity‐building organic transformations. However, the majority of established approaches rely on electrophilic reagents that limit the diversity of groups that can be installed. Recent advances have established a new approach that instead relies on the transformation of alkenes into thianthrene‐derived cationic electrophiles. These linchpin intermediates can be generated selectively and undergo a diverse array of mechanistically distinct reactions with abundant nucleophiles. Taken together, this unlocks a suite of net oxidative alkene transformations that have been elusive using conventional strategies. This Minireview describes these advances and is organized around the three distinct synthons formally accessible from alkenes via thianthrenation: 1) alkenyl cations; 2) vicinal dications; 3) allyl cations. Throughout the Minireview, we illustrate how thianthrenium salts address key limitations endemic to classic alkene‐derived electrophiles and highlight the mechanistic origins of these distinctions wherever possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative alkene functionalization reactions are a fundamental class of complexity‐building organic transformations. However, the majority of established approaches rely on electrophilic reagents that limit the diversity of groups that can be installed. Recent advances have established a new approach that instead relies on the transformation of alkenes into thianthrene‐derived cationic electrophiles. These linchpin intermediates can be generated selectively and undergo a diverse array of mechanistically distinct reactions with abundant nucleophiles. Taken together, this unlocks a suite of net oxidative alkene transformations that have been elusive using conventional strategies. This Minireview describes these advances and is organized around the three distinct synthons formally accessible from alkenes via thianthrenation: 1) alkenyl cations; 2) vicinal dications; 3) allyl cations. Throughout the Minireview, we illustrate how thianthrenium salts address key limitations endemic to classic alkene‐derived electrophiles and highlight the mechanistic origins of these distinctions wherever possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractWe have developed a heat transfer correlation for saturated flow boiling of water in a helically coiled tube. Initially, we collected experimental data encompassing a broad spectrum of thermal-hydraulic conditions and geometric configurations, and examined the influences of key dimensionless parameters, such as the convection number and the boiling number. The data analysis showed that the observed trend aligns with previous studies on boiling heat transfer within a straight tube. Also, we investigated the influence of centrifugal force acting on the fluid in a helically coiled tube and confirmed its significant impact on boiling heat transfer. Based on our findings, we propose a new heat transfer correlation that incorporates a dimensionless number of the centrifugal force divided by gravitational force. The basic structure of this correlation was adapted from the Kandlikar correlation for saturated flow boiling. The new correlation demonstrated enhanced accuracy compared to existing ones. Additionally, we showed its applicability to boiling heat transfer within a straight tube as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 20% of the world's population suffers from allergic diseases, including allergic asthma, rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis that severely reduce the patient's quality of life. The treatment of allergy has been developed, but there are still unmet needs. Ampelopsis brevipedunculata (Maxim.) Trautv. is a traditional medicinal herb with beneficial bioactivities, such as antioxidant, anti-hypertension, anti-viral, anti-mutagenic, and skin and liver (anti-hepatotoxic) protective actions. However, its anti-allergic effect has not been addressed. This study designed to investigate the pharmacological effect of an ethanol extract of A. brevipedunculata rhizomes (ABE) on mast cell and anaphylaxis models. For in vivo studies, we used ovalbumin-induced active systemic anaphylaxis (ASA) and immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) models. In ASA model, oral administration of ABE (1, 10, and 100 mg/kg) attenuated the anaphylactic responses, such as hypothermia, serum histamine, and IgE productions. In PCA model, ABE also suppressed the plasma extravasation and swelling. The underlying mechanisms of action were identified in various mast cell types. In vitro, ABE (10, 30, and 60 µg/mL) inhibited the release of essential allergic mediators, such as histamine and β-hexosaminidase, in a concentration-dependent manner. ABE prevented the rapid increase in intracellular calcium levels induced by the DNP-HSA challenge. In addition, ABE downregulated the tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-4 by suppressing the activation of nuclear factor-κB. Collectively, this study is the first to identify the anti-allergic effect of ABE, suggesting that ABE is a promising candidate for treating allergic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opsoclonus refers to saccadic oscillations without an intersaccadic interval occurring in multiple planes. Opsoclonus mostly indicates dysfunction of the brainstem or cerebellum. We report opsoclonus induced by horizontal head-shaking without other signs of brainstem or cerebellar dysfunction in two patients with vestibular migraine (VM). The development of opsoclonus after horizontal head-shaking indicates unstable or hyperactive neural circuits between the excitatory and inhibitory saccadic premotor burst neurons in these patients with VM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global energy demand escalates the interest in effective and durable catalytic systems for the dry reforming of methane (DRM), a process that converts CO2/CH4 into H2/CO syngas. Porous silica-supported nickel (Ni) catalysts are recognized as a promising candidate due to robust DRM activity associated with the confinement of Ni particles in the mesopores that reduces the catalyst deactivation by carbon byproduct deposits and sintering of active Ni sites. However, the small-sized pore configurations in the mesoporous catalysts hinders the fast mass transfer of reactants and products. A unique combination of the hierarchical nanostructure with macro–mesoporous features of the support is adopted to enhance the catalytic performance via the dual effect of the efficient mass transfer and minimized sintering issue. This study delves into the influence of SiO2 geometry and pore structure on the catalytic performance of Ni-based catalysts. Three types of porous silica supports were synthesized through various methods: (a) hydrothermal-assisted sol–gel for dendritic mesoporous silica (DMS), (b) spray-pyrolysis-assisted sol–gel for spray evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) silica, and (c) oven-assisted sol–gel for oven EISA silica. Among the prepared catalysts the hierarchical external nanostructured Ni/DMS showed the superior CH4 and CO2 conversion rates (76.6% and 82.1%), even at high space velocities (GHSV = 360 L∙g−1·h−1). The distinctive macro–mesoporous geometry effectively prevents the sintering of Ni particles and promotes the smooth diffusion of the reactants and products, thus improving catalytic stability over extended reaction periods (24 h). This research highlights the significant impact of macro–mesoporosity revealed in DMS support catalysts on the physicochemical properties of Ni/DMS and their crucial role in enhancing DRM reaction efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hair cycle arrest (HCA) is a chronic alopecic disorder in dogs. Clinical responses vary and are often insufficient. Microneedling (MN) has been used as a successful treatment for HCA in dogs; ideal protocols have not yet been established. Objectives: The objective of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety of three needle lengths for MN in dogs with HCA. Animals: Six unrelated client‐owned dogs, including five Pomeranians and one mixed‐breed dog, diagnosed with HCA. Materials and Methods: Individual alopecic sites were divided into three sections. For each section, different lengths of needles (1, 2 and 3 mm) were used. Efficacy and safety were evaluated at 1, 3 and 6 months. Treated sections were monitored for 20 months. Results: Three months after treatment with 3 mm needles, all sections showed hair regrowth. There was no hair regrowth in two of six sections treated with 2 mm needles, and four of six sections did not show a response to treatment with 1 mm needles. Two dogs developed transient pruritus. Five of six dogs had recurrent hair loss between 5 and 16 months of follow‐up. Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: Microneedling using longer needles stimulated better hair regrowth in dogs with HCA. Alopecia relapsed in most dogs and minor pruritus occurred in some dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopic full-thickness gastric resection (EFTGR) with regional lymph node dissection (LND) has been used for early gastric cancer (EGC) exceeding the indications for endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). The extent of the dissected lymph nodes is crucial. A 3D near-infrared (NIR) video robot system significantly enhances visualization of the lymphatic system. However, this system has not been used in EFTGR with LND. Thus, this study assessed the benefits of the 3D NIR video robot system in a clinical setting. Methods: Between February 2015 and September 2018, 24 patients with EGC exceeding the indications for ESD were treated with EFTGR and LND using a 3D NIR video system with the da Vinci surgical robot. Indocyanine green (ICG) was injected endoscopically around the tumor, and basin node (BN) dissection around the nodes was examined using the 3D NIR video system of the da Vinci Si surgical robot. Subsequently, robot-assisted EFTGR was performed. The primary outcome was the 5-year survival rate. Result: During a 5-year follow-up of all 24 patients, an 80-year-old patient with an ulcer and T2 invasion was lost to follow-up. Among the remaining 23 patients, no mortality or recurrence was observed. Conclusion: No metastasis or mortality occurred using the da Vinci robot-assisted EFTGR with LLND and a 3D NIR video system for patients who required radical gastrectomy for EGC in over 5 years. Hence, this may be a safe and effective method for radical gastrectomy; further studies are required confirming its effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immediate and well‐documented benefits of carbohydrate restriction include improved glycemic control in individuals with diabetes mellitus. Starch, a significant source of carbohydrates, is categorized as rapidly digestible, slowly digestible, or resistant starch (RS). RS, which is a non‐viscous fermentable fiber, has shown promise in animal studies for antidiabetic effects by improving glucose metabolism. Although the exact mechanism by which RS affects glucose metabolism remains unclear, it is expected to positively impact glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The fermentation of RS by colonic microbiota in the large bowel produces short‐chain fatty acids, which exert multiple metabolic effects on glucose regulation and homeostasis. Moreover, RS may influence glucose metabolism via bile acid modulation, independent of its fermentation. Diets rich in RS could aid in blood glucose homeostasis. However, it is uncertain whether they can alter the metabolic pathology associated with glucose regulation. In essence, RS has the potential to lower postprandial glucose levels similarly to a low‐glycemic index diet. Yet, its efficacy as a medical nutrition therapy for type 2 diabetes needs further investigation. To confirm the role of RS in glycemic control and to possibly recommend it as an additional dietary approach for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, a well‐designed, large‐scale intervention is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Conventional diagnostic methods for dysphagia have limitations such as long wait times, radiation risks, and restricted evaluation. Therefore, voice-based diagnostic and monitoring technologies are required to overcome these limitations. Based on our hypothesis regarding the impact of weakened muscle strength and the presence of aspiration on vocal characteristics, this single-center, prospective study aimed to develop a machine-learning algorithm for predicting dysphagia status (normal, and aspiration) by analyzing postprandial voice limiting intake to 3 cc. Methods: Conducted from September 2021 to February 2023 at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, this single center, prospective cohort study included 198 participants aged 40 or older, with 128 without suspected dysphagia and 70 with dysphagia-aspiration. Voice data from participants were collected and used to develop dysphagia prediction models using the Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) with MobileNet V3. Male-only, female-only, and combined models were constructed using 10-fold cross-validation. Through the inference process, we established a model capable of probabilistically categorizing a new patient's voice as either normal or indicating the possibility of aspiration. Results: The pre-trained models (mn40_as and mn30_as) exhibited superior performance compared to the non-pre-trained models (mn4.0 and mn3.0). Overall, the best-performing model, mn30_as, which is a pre-trained model, demonstrated an average AUC across 10 folds as follows: combined model 0.8361 (95% CI 0.7667–0.9056; max 0.9541), male model 0.8010 (95% CI 0.6589–0.9432; max 1.000), and female model 0.7572 (95% CI 0.6578–0.8567; max 0.9779). However, for the female model, a slightly higher result was observed with the mn4.0, which scored 0.7679 (95% CI 0.6426–0.8931; max 0.9722). Additionally, the other models (pre-trained; mn40_as, non-pre-trained; mn4.0 and mn3.0) also achieved performance above 0.7 in most cases, and the highest fold-level performance for most models was approximately around 0.9. The 'mn' in model names refers to MobileNet and the following number indicates the 'width_mult' parameter. Conclusions: In this study, we used mel-spectrogram analysis and a MobileNetV3 model for predicting dysphagia aspiration. Our research highlights voice analysis potential in dysphagia screening, diagnosis, and monitoring, aiming for non-invasive safer, and more effective interventions. Trial registration: This study was approved by the IRB (No. B-2109-707-303) and registered on clinicaltrials.gov (ID: NCT05149976). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1769, Euler proved the following result: ∫ 0 π 2 log ⁡ ( sin ⁡ θ ) ⁢ 푑 θ = - π 2 ⁢ log ⁡ 2 . \int_{0}^{\frac{\pi}{2}}\log(\sin\theta)\,d\theta=-\frac{\pi}{2}\log 2. In this paper, as a generalization, we evaluate the definite integrals ∫ 0 x θ r - 2 ⁢ log ⁡ ( cos ⁡ θ 2 ) ⁢ 푑 θ \int_{0}^{x}\theta^{r-2}\log\biggl{(}\cos\frac{\theta}{2}\biggr{)}\,d\theta for r = 2 , 3 , 4 , … r=2,3,4,\dots  . We show that it can be expressed by the special values of Kurokawa and Koyama’s multiple cosine functions 풞 r ⁢ ( x ) {\mathcal{C}_{r}(x)} or by the special values of alternating zeta and Dirichlet lambda functions. In particular, we get the following explicit expression of the zeta value: ζ ⁢ ( 3 ) = 4 ⁢ π 2 21 ⁢ log ⁡ ( e 4 ⁢ G π ⁢ 풞 3 ⁢ ( 1 4 ) 16 2 ) , \zeta(3)=\frac{4\pi^{2}}{21}\log\Biggl{(}\frac{e^{\frac{4G}{\pi}}\mathcal{C}_{% 3}\bigl{(}\frac{1}{4}\bigr{)}^{16}}{\sqrt{2}}\Biggr{)}, where G is Catalan’s constant and 풞 3 ⁢ ( 1 4 ) {\mathcal{C}_{3}(\frac{1}{4})} is the special value of Kurokawa and Koyama’s multiple cosine function 풞 3 ⁢ ( x ) {\mathcal{C}_{3}(x)} at 1 4 {\frac{1}{4}} . Furthermore, we prove several series representations for the logarithm of multiple cosine functions log ⁡ 풞 r ⁢ ( x 2 ) {\log\mathcal{C}_{r}(\frac{x}{2})} by zeta functions, L-functions or polylogarithms. One of them leads to another expression of ζ ⁢ ( 3 ) {\zeta(3)} : ζ ⁢ ( 3 ) = 72 ⁢ π 2 11 ⁢ log ⁡ ( 3 1 72 ⁢ 풞 3 ⁢ ( 1 6 ) 풞 2 ⁢ ( 1 6 ) 1 3 ) . \zeta(3)=\frac{72\pi^{2}}{11}\log\Biggl{(}\frac{3^{\frac{1}{72}}\mathcal{C}_{3% }\bigl{(}\frac{1}{6}\bigr{)}}{\mathcal{C}_{2}\bigl{(}\frac{1}{6}\bigr{)}^{% \frac{1}{3}}}\Biggr{)}. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Students' performance is an important factor for the evaluation of teaching quality in colleges. The prediction and analysis of students' performance can guide students' learning in time. Aiming at the low accuracy problem of single model in students' performance prediction, a combination prediction method is put forward based on ant colony algorithm. First, considering the characteristics of students' learning behavior and the characteristics of the models, decision tree (DT), support vector regression (SVR) and BP neural network (BP) are selected to establish three prediction models. Then, an ant colony algorithm (ACO) is proposed to calculate the weight of each model of the combination prediction model. The combination prediction method was compared with the single Machine learning (ML) models and other methods in terms of accuracy and running time. The combination prediction model with mean square error (MSE) of 0.0089 has higher performance than DT with MSE of 0.0326, SVR with MSE of 0.0229 and BP with MSE of 0.0148. To investigate the efficacy of the combination prediction model, other prediction models are used for a comparative study. The combination prediction model with MSE of 0.0089 has higher performance than GS-XGBoost with MSE of 0.0131, PSO-SVR with MSE of 0.0117 and IDA-SVR with MSE of 0.0092. Meanwhile, the running speed of the combination prediction model is also faster than the above three methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we present a solution-based method of growing three-dimensional flower-shaped metal halide perovskite crystals by drop casting solutions of FAxMA1−xPbyI1+2y precursors (FA = formamidinium, MA = methylammonium) on close-packed monolayers of titanium dioxide (TiO2) colloidal particles. The colloidal films directed perovskite crystallization during solvent evaporation, with crystals first nucleating within the confining interstitial sites between colloidal particles and growing perpendicular to the substrate surface. When growth proceeded above the colloidal film, the crystals blossomed outwards to form flower-shaped hopper crystals with a hierarchical 3D structure. The crystal shapes ranging from circular discs to pointed snowflakes were achieved by varying the solution pH and precursor composition. Structural complexity in these crystals was observed across multiple length scales – X-ray diffraction patterns and spatially-resolved photoluminescence mapping revealed three polymorphs present for all compositions tested: two bulk phases and one surface phase. These structures exhibit broad areas for light absorption but small contact areas with the underlying substrate for charge transport, which may be useful for optoelectronic devices, such as 2D photodetectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Direct seawater splitting has attracted considerable attention as an alternative to conventional alkaline water electrolysis because the former avoids the use of limited freshwater resources. However, several challenges must be overcome to realize direct seawater electrolysis. Most importantly, electrocatalysts for the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) should exhibit high activity, stability, and selectivity in highly corrosive environments with abundant chloride ions. In this study, we developed high-entropy carbonate (HEC) as a promising electrocatalyst for seawater oxidation. In HECs, physicochemical interactions among different elements can effectively suppress the corrosion of OER active sites, while polyanionic CO32- can act as a corrosion-protective species by repelling negatively charged chloride ions during electrolysis. Consequently, HECs demonstrate outstanding catalytic activity, stability, and selectivity for seawater oxidation, surpassing those of ternary, quaternary, and quinary carbonates and even benchmark IrO2 catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease (CTEPD) can lead to exercise limitations even without right ventricular (RV) dysfunction or pulmonary hypertension at rest. Combining exercise stress echocardiography with cardiopulmonary exercise testing (ESE‐CPET) for RV function and pressure changes combined measuring overall function may be useful for CTEPD evaluation. This study aims to investigate CPET and ESE results to elucidate the mechanisms of exercise limitation in mild CTEPD cases. Methods: Among our CTEPD registry, 50 patients who performed both right heart catheterization data of mild disease (less than 30 mm Hg of mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP)) and ESE‐CPET were enrolled. Echocardiography and CPET‐derived parameters were compared with hemodynamic parameters measured through right heart catheterization. Results: Peak VO2 (maximal oxygen consumption) was decreased in overall population (71.3 ± 16.3% of predictive value). Peak VO2 during exercise was negatively correlate with mPAP and pulmonary vascular resistance at rest. A substantial increase in RV systolic pressure (RVSP) was observed during exercise (RVSP: pre‐exercise 37.2 ± 11.8 mm Hg, postexercise 64.3 ± 24.9 mm Hg, p‐value <.001). Furthermore, RV function deteriorated during exercise when compared to the baseline (RV fractional area change: 31.5 ± 10.0% to 37.8 ± 7.0%, p‐value <.001; RV global longitudinal strain: −17.1 ± 4.2% to −17.7 ± 3.3%, p‐value <.001) even though basal RV function was normal. While an excessive increase in RVSP during exercise was noticed in both groups, dilated RV and RV dysfunction during exercise were demonstrated only in the impaired exercise capacity group. Conclusion: CTEPD patients with mild PH or without PH exhibited limited exercise capacity alongside an excessive increase in RVSP during exercise. Importantly, RV dysfunction during exercise was significantly associated with exercise capacity. ESE‐CPET could aid in comprehending the primary cause of exercise limitation in these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hair loss occurs due to various biological and environmental causes, which can have psychosocial consequences. The Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is well‐known for its role in hair growth and regeneration, as it induces the proliferation and differentiation of hair cells. When the leucine‐rich G protein‐coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) interacts with the R‐spondins, the frizzled receptor (FZD), a Wnt receptor, becomes stabilized, resulting in an increased β‐catenin activity. Aim: We investigated whether the octapeptide that binds to Lgr5 enhances proliferation and differentiation of human primary hair cells through the activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling. Methods: The binding affinity of the octapeptide to Lgr5 was evaluated using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). We confirmed changes in proliferation and related factors like β‐catenin activation and growth factors (GFs) expression in human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HHFDPCs). Additionally, we observed the proliferation and the expression of differentiation markers in human hair follicle outer root sheath cells (HHFORSCs), human hair follicle germinal matrix cells (HHFGMCs), and human hair follicle stem cells (HHFSCs). We used three‐dimensional HHFDPC spheroid culture treated with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to create in vitro conditions that mimic androgenetic alopecia, and we studied the effects of octapeptide on Wnt expression and HHFSC differentiation. Results: The binding of the octapeptide to Lgr5 was confirmed using SPR analysis. In HHFDPCs, treatment with octapeptide resulted in a concentration‐dependent increase in proliferation. We also observed increased nuclear translocation of β‐catenin and increased expression of its downstream targets. HHFDPCs treated with octapeptide exhibited increased expression of growth factors and phosphorylation of Akt and ERK. In addition, we confirmed that octapeptide increased proliferation and induced differentiation in HHFORSCs, HHFGMCs, and HHFSCs. Under the HHFDPC spheroid culture conditions, we found that octapeptide restored the inhibition of Wnt‐5a and Wnt‐10b expressions by DHT. In HHFSCs treated with HHFDPC spheroid culture media, we observed that octapeptide recovered the inhibition of differentiation by DHT. Conclusion: We found that octapeptides activated the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling and induced the proliferation and differentiation of human primary hair cells by acting as an exogenous ligand for Lgr5. In addition, octapeptides recovered inhibited hair regeneration characters by DHT in androgenetic alopecia‐mimic in vitro model. These findings suggest that octapeptides may be a promising therapeutic option for treating hair loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study proposes a fire dynamics simulation method for combustion modeling using heat release and toxic gas emission experimental data. The feasibility of the proposed method is verified through simulations of a cable spreading room of a nuclear power plant where a high level of safety is required. In addition to CO and CO2, nine other toxic gases are detected in the simulations, and the toxic effect is assessed considering two aspects. First, the order of toxic gases reaching the toxicity criteria, which is identical to the order of the hazardousness, is assessed. The arrival times to the lowest allowable exposure limits are ranked as CO < NO2 < SO2 < HCl < HCN < HBr < HF < CH2CHCN < HCHO < CO2 < H2S. The arrival time is inversely proportional to the degree of risk. Second, the comprehensive toxicity index (TI) and its time-weighted average are proposed to assess the combined effects of all emissions. The comprehensive TI of combined emissions is substantially larger than that of only CO. This implies that the conventional performance-based design method, typically used to assess the toxic and suffocation effects of only CO, CO2, and O2, may cause considerable error during risk assessment, because it ignores toxic effects of minor gases such as NO2, SO2, HCl, HCN, HBr, HF, CH2CHCN, HCHO, and H2S. The proposed experimental-data-based simulation method enables more advanced fire dynamics simulations for accurately assessing the hazardousness of toxic gases to humans, and thus, it can be used practically for establishing suitable fire emergency response plans and countermeasure strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coxsackievirus A6 (CV-A6) has emerged as the predominant causative agent of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in young children. Since the declaration of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a global pandemic, the incidence of infectious diseases, including HFMD, has decreased markedly. When social mitigation was relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022, the re-emergence of HFMD was observed in Gwangju, South Korea, and seasonal characteristics of the disease appeared to have changed. To investigate the molecular characteristics of enterovirus (EV) associated with HFMD during 2022, 277 specimens were collected. Children aged younger than 5 years accounted for the majority of affected individuals. EV detection and genotyping were performed using real-time RT-PCR and nested RT-PCR followed by sequence analysis. The EV detection rate was found to be 82.3%, and the main genotype identified was CV-A6. Sixteen CV-A6 samples were selected for whole genome sequencing. According to phylogenetic analysis, all CV-A6 strains from this study belonged to the sub-genotype D3 clade based on VP1 sequences. Analysis of 3D polymerase phylogeny showed that only the recombinant RF-A group was identified. In conclusion, circulating EV types should be continuously monitored to understand pathogen emergence and evolution during the post-pandemic era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]