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Objective: The daily lives of adolescents have changed significantly because of COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated the effects of changes in daily life attributed to COVID-19 on allergic diseases among Korean adolescents. Methods: Data from the 2021 Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey were used. In total, 54,848 survey participants were included in the analysis. Allergic diseases included allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and asthma. Changes attributed to COVID-19 included family economic difficulties, physical activity, breakfast skipping frequency, alcohol consumption, smoking, and depressive moods. Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the impact of changes in daily life attributed to COVID-19 on allergic diseases. Results: Among the Korean adolescents surveyed, 29.8% experienced a deterioration in their economic status due to COVID-19, 49.1% reported decreased physical activity, 2.8% reported increased alcohol consumption, 1.0% reported an increase in their smoking behavior, and 36.9% reported an increase in depressive moods. Those diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, or asthma within the previous 12 months accounted for 17.1%, 6.2%, and 1.0% of the population, respectively. Adolescents who were significantly affected by COVID-19 in their daily lives were frequently diagnosed with allergic diseases within the last 12 months. Conclusion: Changes in daily life due to COVID-19, including decreased physical activity and increased depressive mood, were common in adolescents and were associated with an increased prevalence of allergic diseases. Since changes in daily life due to the pandemic may increase the burden of allergic disease, additional interventions for disease management should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of portable X‐ray detectors is necessary for diagnosing fractures in unconscious patients in emergency situations. However, this is quite challenging because of the heavy weight of the scintillator and silicon photodetectors. The weight and thickness of X‐ray detectors can be reduced by replacing the silicon layer with an organic photodetectors. This study presents a novel bithienopyrroledione‐based polymer donor that exhibits excellent photodetection properties even in a thick photoactive layer (~700 nm), owing to the symmetric backbone and highly soluble molecular structure of bithienopyrroledione. The ability of bithienopyrroledione‐based polymer donor to strongly suppress the dark current density (Jd ~ 10−10 A cm−2) at a negative bias (−2.0 V) while maintaining high responsivity (R = 0.29 A W−1) even at a thickness of 700 nm results in a maximum shot‐noise‐limited specific detectivity of Dsh* = 2.18 × 1013 Jones in the organic photodetectors. Printed organic photodetectors are developed by slot‐die coating for use in X‐ray detectors, which exhibit Dsh* = 2.73 × 1012 Jones with clear rising (0.26 s) and falling (0.29 s) response times upon X‐ray irradiation. Detection reliability is also proven by linear response of the X‐ray detector, and the X‐ray detection limit is 3 mA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Pork cutlets are susceptible to cross‐contamination with foodborne pathogens during processing. Food irradiation effectively improves food hygiene by eliminating microbes. We investigated the application of X‐ray irradiation (0.5–10 kGy) on pathogen inactivation (D10 value), quality changes [total aerobic bacteria (TAB), yeast and mould (Y&M), total coliform (TC), colour, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), and pH], and the hydrocarbon profile of pork cutlets. D10 values of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus were 0.37, 0.62, 0.52, and 0.36 kGy, respectively. At least 3.10 kGy (5‐D10 values) is required to ensure the microbiological safety of pork cutlets. X‐ray irradiation dose‐dependently reduced all microbial counts, and up to 7 kGy had no adverse effects on colour, TBARS, and pH. Furthermore, 1,7‐hexadecadiene and 8‐heptadecene were potential markers for irradiated pork cutlets. X‐ray irradiation of up to 7 kGy is effective in improving hygiene levels while maintaining pork cutlet quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of ginseng varies by several factors such as age, harvest season, and region. Each part of fresh ginseng contains certain valuable bioactive compounds; however, chemical studies of ginseng have focused on the ginsenoside content. In this study, we examine the chemical composition of Panax ginseng Meyer as related to harvest season and specific root parts via untargeted metabolomics using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight-mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS). Multivariate statistical analysis such as partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) was used to select significant metabolites distinguishing ginseng harvested in different seasons and various ginseng parts. The selected thirteen metabolites were identified as amino acids, ginsenosides, and fatty acid amides through MS fragment pattern analysis. Additional chemometric analysis revealed chemical consistency between main and fine roots regardless of harvest time, indicating a stable chemical composition in P. ginseng among seasons. Furthermore, most ginsenosides among the thirteen selected metabolites had higher abundance in fine roots than in main roots, while primary metabolites were more abundant in main roots, highlighting a unique chemical composition dependent on the specific root parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High dimensionality and noise have limited the new biological insights that can be discovered in scRNA-seq data. While dimensionality reduction tools have been developed to extract biological signals from the data, they often require manual determination of signal dimension, introducing user bias. Furthermore, a common data preprocessing method, log normalization, can unintentionally distort signals in the data. Here, we develop scLENS, a dimensionality reduction tool that circumvents the long-standing issues of signal distortion and manual input. Specifically, we identify the primary cause of signal distortion during log normalization and effectively address it by uniformizing cell vector lengths with L2 normalization. Furthermore, we utilize random matrix theory-based noise filtering and a signal robustness test to enable data-driven determination of the threshold for signal dimensions. Our method outperforms 11 widely used dimensionality reduction tools and performs particularly well for challenging scRNA-seq datasets with high sparsity and variability. To facilitate the use of scLENS, we provide a user-friendly package that automates accurate signal detection of scRNA-seq data without manual time-consuming tuning. Single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis is limited by noise and high dimensionality. Here, authors present scLENS, a tool that automates accurate signal detection without manual input, particularly in complex datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in the efficiency of hydrogen production via photoelectrochemical water splitting have led to a focus on scalability, ease of fabrication, and cost-effectiveness. Yet, challenges such as prolonged processing times and complex procedures persist, demanding innovative breakthroughs. Our study presents a streamlined method for fabricating high-efficiency BiVO4 films for PEC application, employing one-step spin coating with high-concentration precursor solutions, making it apt for large-scale deployment. Optimizing solvent and precursor ratios led to a notable photocurrent density of 5.03 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE. This enhancement could be attributed to an increase in light absorption owing to an increase in the (040) crystal plane and Mie scattering, optimized film thickness, large grain size and decreased surface dangling bonds, resulting in enhanced carrier density and improved carrier transfer and transport. This approach enabled the cost-effective production of large-area BiVO4 photoanodes, which effectively generated high current in a PEC-PV system through self-driven solar water splitting. Our study highlights a pathway towards commercial-scale solar-powered hydrogen production technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, a founder Alu insertion in exon 4 of RP1 was detected in Japanese and Korean patients with inherited retinal diseases (IRDs). However, carrier frequency and diagnostic challenges for detecting AluY insertion are not established. We aim to investigate the frequency of AluY in individuals with or without IRDs and to overcome common diagnostic pitfalls associated with AluY insertion. A total of 1,072 subjects comprising 411 patients with IRD (IRD group) and 661 patients with other suspected Mendelian genetic disease (non-IRD group) was screened for AluY insertion. Targeted panel sequencing and whole-genome sequencing were used for detection of AluY insertion, and an optimized allele-specific PCR (AS-PCR) was used for validation. The AluY insertion was detected in 1.5% in IRD group (6/411). The AluY insertion was not observed in non-IRD group (0/661). All patients with AluY were confirmed to have RP1 pathogenic variants on the paired allele. We identified AluY allele dropout leading to false homozygosity for c.4196del pathogenic variant in Sanger sequencing. The allelic relationship between variants of RP1 was accurately determined by AluY AS-PCR. Delineating diagnostic challenges of AluY insertion and strategies to avoid potential pitfalls could aid clinicians in an accurate molecular diagnosis for patients with IRD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallium Nitride (GaN) high-electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) are highly promising for high-frequency and high-power applications due to their superior properties, such as a wide energy bandgap and high carrier density. The performance of GaN HEMTs is significantly influenced by the interfacial states of the AlGaN barrier, and gate annealing has emerged as a key process for reducing leakage currents and enhancing DC/RF characteristics. This research investigates the impact of gate annealing on AlGaN/GaN HEMTs, focusing on two main aspects: leakage current reduction and improvements in DC and RF efficiency. Through comprehensive electrical analysis, including DC and RF measurements, the effects of gate annealing were experimentally evaluated. The results show a significant reduction in gate leakage current and noticeable improvements in DC/RF performance for the devices that underwent gate annealing. The study confirms that the annealing process can effectively enhance device performance by modifying the material properties at the gate interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This experiment was conducted in accordance with the prevailing trend of identifying alternative sources of nutrition to compensate for the economic shortcomings of fish meal in the aquaculture industry. The experiment employed soybean-based concentrated protein, which is approximately half the cost of fish meal, and focused on investigating its impact on growth and physiological processes. Three experimental diets were prepared: the control diet (Con) contained 60% FM, and the experimental diets contained 25% (SPC25) and 50% (SPC50) FM replaced by SPC. Following the 140-day feeding period, no significant differences in growth performance were observed. However, an increase in the replacement rate was associated with a reduction in stress and immune sensitivity, while the SPC25 treatment exhibited elevated levels of digestive enzyme-related genes. Therefore, substituting 25% FM with SPC was most effective for commercial fish farming. This study identified the effects of substituting fishmeal (FM) with soy protein concentrate (SPC) supplemented with lysine and methionine in the olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) diet on the expression of genes related to growth, stress, immunity, and digestion. Three experimental diets were prepared; the control diet (Con) contained 60% FM, and the experimental diets contained 25% (SPC25) and 50% (SPC50) FM replaced by SPC. After the 140-day feeding period, weight gain, specific growth rate, feed availability, biological indices, and chemical composition of the muscle were not significantly affected by the dietary treatments. The gene expression levels of growth-related genes (IGF, GFB-3), immune-related genes (IL-8 and caspase), and stress-related genes (SOD, GPX, PRX, TRX) were higher in Con fish than in those fed the SPC25 and SPC50 diets. Chymo-TRY2, TRY2, and TRY3 in the stomach of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than fish fed the Con or SPC50 diets. TRY2 and lipase of fish fed the SPC25 diet were higher than those of fish fed the other diets but TRY3 was not significantly affected by the treatments in the intestine. In conclusion, substituting 25% FM with SPC was the most effective diet for the expression of growth, immune, stress, and digestive enzyme genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells offer a promising method for producing green hydrogen through the splitting of water using solar energy. However, the cost‐effective synthesis of highly crystalline p‐type semiconductor materials for PEC cells remains a significant challenge for industrial applications. Herein, a CuInS2 photoelectrode is fabricated using a scalable and economical wet chemical spin‐coating technique. To enhance the crystallinity and photoelectrochemical activity of the photoelectrode, the grain size is precisely controlled by adjusting the atomic ratio, thickness, morphology, and Ag doping. Evaluating a novel growth mechanism of CuInS2 from Cu–In–O reveals that Ag doping significantly promotes grain growth. Consequently, the CuInS2 photocathode achieves one of the highest photoelectrochemical activities (−9.8 mA cm−2 at 0 VRHE) reported for CuInS2 photoelectrodes synthesized via wet chemical methods. Bias‐free water splitting is achieved using a CuInS2‐based photoelectrode in a photovoltaic–PEC cell configuration. These results highlight the potential of CuInS2, prepared through wet chemical methods, for cost‐effective photoelectrochemical water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self‐healing polymers are promising for diverse applications in wearable technology and electronic skin. Polyurethanes are versatile polymers that can incorporate various monomer structures. Waterborne polyurethanes (WPUs) emerge as an environmentally conscious choice due to water usage instead of organic solvents, thereby minimizing the generation of volatile organic compounds. This study introduces a novel approach to enhance the self‐healing properties of WPUs by integrating disulfide bonds. These dynamic disulfide bonds undergo exchange reactions upon heating, facilitating the renewal of cross‐links on damaged film surfaces. Self‐healing WPUs with a low glass transition temperature achieve excellent self‐healing efficiency under mild conditions. Self‐healing adhesives applied to various flexible substrates retain stable peel strength, which confirms their potential as self‐healing solutions. Furthermore, the WPU hydrogel electrolyte is prepared with dihydroxyhexyl viologen (DHHV), and the prepared electrochromic gel exhibits good ionic conductivity while maintaining high transparency. The flexible electrochromic device exhibited excellent performances, including low coloration voltage, high coloration efficiency, and long‐term stability. The transmittance difference is exceptional, with over 99%, and no decay after repeated bending cycles is observed. The current results demonstrate the feasibility of self‐healing WPUs in improving the operation and durability of high‐performance flexible electrochromic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preventing post-weaning diarrhea (PWD) in weaned piglets is a crucial challenge in the swine production industry. The stress of weaning, dietary shifts from maternal milk to solid feed, and environmental changes lead to decreased microbial diversity, increased pathogen abundance, and compromised intestinal integrity. We have previously identified Lactiplantibacillus argentoratensis AGMB00912 (LA) in healthy porcine feces, which demonstrated antimicrobial activity against pathogens and enhanced short-chain fatty acid production. This research aimed to evaluate the efficacy of LA strain supplementation as a strategy to inhibit PWD and enhance overall growth performance in weaned piglets. Results: LA supplementation in weaned piglets significantly increased body weight gain, average daily gain, and average daily feed intake. It also alleviated diarrhea symptoms (diarrhea score and incidence). Notably, LA was found to enrich beneficial microbial populations (Lactobacillus, Anaerobutyricum, Roseburia, Lachnospiraceae, and Blautia) while reducing the abundance of harmful bacteria (Helicobacter and Campylobacter). This not only reduces the direct impact of pathogens but also improves the overall gut microbiota structure, thus enhancing the resilience of weaned piglets. LA treatment also promotes the growth of the small intestinal epithelial structure, strengthens gut barrier integrity, and increases short-chain fatty acid levels in the gut. Conclusions: The study findings demonstrate the promising potential of LA in preventing PWD. Supplementation with the LA strain offers a promising feed additive for improving intestinal health and growth in piglets during the weaning transition, with the potential to significantly reduce the incidence and severity of PWD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chiral N‐heterocyclic compounds are key structures in natural compounds and pharmaceuticals, and they serve as essential building blocks of functional materials. Catalytic asymmetric cycloaddition reactions represent one of the most efficient synthetic strategies for constructing optically active heterocycles. Cyclic sulfamidate imines have recently come to be extensively studied and widely utilized in both organocatalytic and transition metal‐catalyzed asymmetric cycloadditions, where they have been shown to provide various N‐fused‐heterocycles and spiro‐cycles exhibiting high efficiencies with excellent stereoselectivities. This review highlights recent advancements in catalytic asymmetric cycloadditions of cyclic sulfamidate imines for the stereoselective synthesis of biologically active sulfamidate‐containing heterocycles since 2012 while focusing on the diverse reactivities of cyclic sulfamidate imines and the mechanisms of chiral induction in catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Few studies have compared the efficacy and safety of second-line biological therapies in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients with prior exposure to anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy. We aim to compare the efficacy and safety between ustekinumab, vedolizumab, and tofacitinib, a current option as second-line biological therapy with different mechanisms in those patients. Methods: This retrospective multi-center study was conducted across five institutions from 2011 to 2022. We enrolled patients with moderate to severe UC who failed anti-TNF therapy and subsequently received ustekinumab, vedolizumab, or tofacitinib as second-line biological therapy. The outcomes were analyzed for clinical response/remission and endoscopic improvement/remission rates after induction therapy, drug persistency, and adverse events. Results: A total of 70 UC patients were included and grouped into ustekinumab (11 patients), vedolizumab (40 patients), and tofacitinib (19 patients) treatments. The clinical response/remission rates after induction therapy were similar between ustekinumab (90.9/81.8%), vedolizumab (92.5/65.0%), and tofacitinib (94.7/73.7%). There were no significant differences in the endoscopic improvement/remission rates between the three groups: 90.9/18.2% for ustekinumab, 72.5/12.5% for vedolizumab, and 84.2/26.3% for tofacitinib. Drug persistence was similar across the three agents (p = 0.130). Three patients of the tofacitinib group experienced adverse events (herpes zoster and hypertriglyceridemia). Conclusions: Based on real-world data, second-line biological therapy with ustekinumab, vedolizumab, and tofacitinib showed comparable efficacy in patients with moderate to severe UC with prior exposure to anti-TNF therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigated the potential for enhancing the efficacy of the biological control agent, Aphidius colemani, against the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, by planting Zinnia elegans flowers alongside cucumbers in greenhouses. Three treatments were examined: (1) the combined use of Z. elegans and A. colemani; (2) A. colemani alone; and (3) a control without either. Our results indicated that the Z. elegans and A. colemani combination maintained a lower A. gossypii population compared to other treatments. While A. colemani alone initially suppressed the A. gossypii population, it soon increased. This study concluded that integrating Z. elegans with the biological control agent could more effectively manage aphid populations in cucumber greenhouses. This study aimed to evaluate the enhancement of A. gossypii control by A. colemani when Z. elegans was planted as a companion crop in cucumber greenhouses. The density and spatial distribution of A. gossypii and parasitized mummies were investigated across three treatment plots: (1) the simultaneous application of A. colemani and cultivation of Z. elegans (parasitoid-zinnia plot); (2) the application of A. colemani alone (parasitoid plot); and (3) a control plot (no application of both). A. gossypii maintained low densities in the parasitoid–zinnia plots, while its densities in the parasitoid plots initially decreased but rapidly increased thereafter. The spatial distribution patterns of A. gossypii and parasitized mummies showed similar trends across treatments. However, the parasitism rate of A. gossypii exhibited random distribution in parasitoid and control plots, while showing uniform distribution in the parasitoid–zinnia treatment. These results supported the idea that cultivating Z. elegans alongside cucumber could enhance the effectiveness of A. colemani as a biocontrol agent against A. gossypii, highlighting the importance of such companion planting in pest management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate nurses' workload during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic and to identify their perception of medical serviced robots (MSRs) that may help with or replace the tasks of nurses in negative‐pressure isolated wards and general wards. Design: Cross‐sectional survey. Methods: A researcher‐made questionnaire was applied that assessed nurses' current workload and their attitudes towards and perceptions of MSRs. A visual analogue scale (VAS) from 1 to 10 was used to assess workload. Perceptions evaluated on a 5‐point Likert scale ranging from one point for 'strongly disagree' to five points for 'strongly agree'. A higher VAS score indicated a higher workload. On the other hands, a higher Likert score indicated a more positive perception and three points was neutral. The questionnaire was conducted on 150 nurses in negative‐pressure isolated wards for the management of COVID‐19 and 150 nurses in general wards. Quota sampling technique was used as sampling technique. Data analysis was performed through independent t‐tests, chi‐square tests and two‐tailed tests. The p‐value <0.05 was interpreted to statistically significant. Results: Two hundred eighty‐two participants responded and 142 belonged to the negative‐pressure isolated ward. The overall response rate was 94%, and 94.7% in the negative isolated ward. The mean score ± standard deviation for nursing‐related psychological stress at the current work site was 7.18 ± 1.58 points, and the mean score for physical workload was 7.65 ± 1.48. The need for MSRs was rated as 3.66 ± 0.86 out of 5. Overall, a positive attitude towards MSRs was confirmed, with no difference between ward groups. The overall ratings were 3.14 ± 1.15 for perceived availability and 3.26 ± 1.13 for perceived efficiency. Both nurse groups perceived that MSRs were most available and efficient for monitoring and measurements. Nurses in negative‐pressure isolated wards perceived MSRs more positively than did nurses in general wards regarding setting of alarms (p = 0.003) and delivery of medical devices/materials (p = 0.013). Based on these results, functional development of MSRs associated with monitoring, measurements, setting of alarms and delivery should be prioritized. No patient or public contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study introduces a tunable acoustic tweezer system designed for precise three-dimensional particle trapping and manipulation. The system utilizes a dual-liquid-layer acoustic lens, which enables the dynamic control of the focal length through the adjustable curvature of a latex membrane. This tunability is essential for generating the acoustic forces necessary for effective manipulation of particles, particularly along the direction of acoustic wave propagation ( z -axis). Experiments conducted with spherical particles as small as 1.5 mm in diameter demonstrated the system's capability for stable trapping and manipulation. Performance was rigorously evaluated through both z -axis and 3D manipulation tests. In the z-axis experiments, the system achieved a manipulation range of 33.4–53.4 mm, with a root-mean-square error and standard deviation of 0.044 ± 0.045 mm, which highlights its precision. Further, the 3D manipulation experiments showed that particles could be accurately guided along complex paths, including multilayer rectangular and helical trajectories, with minimal deviation. A visual feedback-based particle navigation system significantly enhanced positional accuracy, reducing errors relative to open-loop control. These results confirm that the tunable acoustic tweezer system is a robust tool for applications requiring precise control of particles with diameter of 1.5 mm in three-dimensional environments. Considering its ability to dynamically adjust the focal point and maintain stable trapping, this system is well suited for tasks demanding high precision, such as targeted particle delivery and other applications involving advanced material manipulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the demand for high-density, high-performance technologies in semiconductor systems increases, efforts are being made to mitigate and optimize the issues of high current density and heat generation within interconnects to ensure reliability. While interconnects are the most fundamental pathways for transmitting current signals, there has been relatively little research conducted on them compared to individual unit devices from the perspective of overall system performance. However, as integration density increases, the amount of loss in interconnects also rises, necessitating research and development to minimize these losses. In this study, we propose a method to analyze power efficiency by utilizing the differences between simulation results and measured results of interconnect structures. We confirmed that the difference between theoretical resistance values and actual measured values varies with the contact area ratio between metal lines and vias, and we analyzed the power efficiency based on these differences. Using the findings, we proposed and validated a structure that can improve power efficiency. This study presents a method to analyze power efficiency and suggests ways to achieve higher power efficiency within the limited specifications of interconnects. This contributes to enhancing power efficiency and ensuring reliability, thereby preserving the performance of the overall system in highly integrated semiconductor systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas pipelines are buried and installed across rivers to supply the gas necessary for daily life. When crossing rivers, gas pipelines are typically installed on bridges; however, when installation on bridges is not feasible, the pipelines are buried in riverbeds. This study utilized both a one-dimensional model (HEC-RAS) and two-dimensional models (SMS) to simulate river flow and estimate the potential for scour and deposition around buried pipelines. The hydrodynamic simulations considered critical factors, including sediment transport, river discharge, and geological characteristics, to derive the maximum scour depth and assess the risk of pipeline exposure. The findings from the long-term and short-term simulations confirmed that riverbed changes due to natural hydrological events do not exceed the minimum burial depth standards, thereby ensuring pipeline safety. In addition, the study proposed specific reinforcement measures tailored to local site conditions, addressing concerns of continuous subsidence and ensuring long-term structural stability. This research offers important insights into pipeline risk management and contributes to the development of more effective regulatory standards for gas pipelines buried in riverbeds, enhancing both their safety and environmental sustainability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Pathogenic variants in the PALB2 gene significantly increase the risk of developing breast, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers. However, the prevalence of these mutations in East Asian populations, particularly Koreans, has not been well studied. This research aims to estimate the prevalence of PALB2 variants in these populations by analyzing large-scale genomic databases. Understanding the frequency of PALB2 variants can help in identifying individuals at higher risk for these cancers and guide the development of targeted screening and prevention strategies. The findings from this study provide valuable reference data that can enhance genetic counseling and improve cancer risk management in East Asian populations, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes in these communities. PALB2 is a tumor suppressor gene. Heterozygous germline pathogenic variants of PALB2 significantly increase the lifetime risk of breast cancer and moderately increase the risk of ovarian and pancreatic cancers. This study analyzed the estimated prevalence of PALB2 variants globally, focusing on East Asian and Korean populations, where limited data were previously available. We examined 125,748 exomes from the Genome Aggregation Database (gnomAD), including 9197 East Asians, and additional data from 5305 individuals in the Korean Variant Archive and 1722 in the Korean Reference Genome Database. All PALB2 variants were interpreted according to guidelines from the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Clinical Genome Resource. The global prevalence of PALB2 variants was 0.18%, with the highest prevalence in Finnish populations (0.41%) and the lowest in Ashkenazi Jewish populations (0.04%). East Asians had a prevalence of 0.09%. By combining data from Korean genome databases and gnomAD totaling 8936 individuals, the overall prevalence of PALB2 variants in the Korean population was determined to be 0.13%. This study is the first comprehensive investigation of PALB2 variant prevalence in East Asians and Koreans using gnomAD and Korean genome databases. These findings provide essential reference data for future research and highlight the importance of region-specific genetic studies that will inform genetic counseling and hereditary cancer risk management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Protein Regulator of Cytokinesis (PRC) 1 is traditionally recognized for its role in the final physical stage of cell division. However, recent studies have highlighted its significant involvement in various cancers. This study aimed to assess the clinical relevance of PRC1 in pancreatic cancer and its impact on cancer cell characteristics. Based on data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and a cell-based assay, PRC1 has emerged as a clinical marker for pancreatic cancer. These findings suggest that the regulation of PRC1 provides a promising strategy for developing anticancer therapies in pancreatic cancer. Background: Pancreatic cancer, while relatively uncommon, is extrapolated to become the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite identifying well-known markers like the KRAS gene, the exact regulation of pancreatic cancer progression remains elusive. Methods: Clinical value of PRC1 was analyzed using bioinformatics database. The role of PRC1 was further evaluated through cell-based assays, including viability, wound healing, and sensitivity with the drug. Results: We demonstrate that PRC1 was significantly overexpressed in pancreatic cancer compared to pancreases without cancer, as revealed through human databases and cell lines analysis. Furthermore, high PRC1 expression had a negative correlation with CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for the immune response against cancers. Additionally, PRC1 showed a positive correlation with established pancreatic cancer markers. Silencing PRC1 expression using siRNA significantly inhibited cancer cell proliferation and viability and increased chemotherapeutic drug sensitivity. Conclusions: These findings suggest that targeting PRC1 in pancreatic cancer may enhance immune cell infiltration and inhibit cancer cell proliferation, offering a promising avenue for developing anticancer therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective and design: This observational study investigated the regulatory mechanism of Pim-1 in inflammatory signaling pathways. Materials: THP-1, RAW 264.7, BV2, and Jurkat human T cell lines were used. Treatment: None. Methods: Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce inflammation, followed by PIM1 knockdown. Western blot, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, and RT-PCR assays were used to assess the effect of PIM1 knockdown on LPS-induced inflammation. Results: PIM1 knockdown in macrophage-like THP-1 cells suppressed LPS-induced upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, phosphorylated Janus kinase, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, p38, and nuclear factor kappa B p65 (NF-κB p65). It also suppressed upregulation of inhibitor of NF-κB kinase α/β and enhanced the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. Moreover, it inhibited the upregulation of Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) and cleavage of caspase-1 induced by co-treatment of LPS with adenosine triphosphate. Additionally, p-transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) interacted with Pim-1. All three members of Pim kinases (Pim-1, Pim-2, and Pim-3) were required for LPS-mediated inflammation in macrophages; however, unlike Pim-1 and Pim-3, Pim-2 functioned as a negative regulator of T cell activity. Conclusions: Pim-1 interacts with TAK1 in LPS-induced inflammatory responses and is involved in MAPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathways. Additionally, considering the negative regulatory role of Pim-2 in T cells, further in-depth studies on their respective functions are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective antihypertensive therapy is essential for achieving optimal blood pressure (BP) control and reducing cardiovascular events. This double-blind, multicenter, randomized trial aimed to compare the antihypertensive efficacy and safety of a combination of amlodipine (AML) and candesartan cilexetil (CC) versus AML monotherapy in patients with essential hypertension (HTN). After a 4-week run-in period with AML 5 mg, patients whose HTN remained uncontrolled (diastolic BP [DBP]) ≥ 90 mmHg and < 120 mmHg) were randomized to receive either AML + CC or AML alone for 8 weeks. Efficacy was assessed by measuring changes in DBP and systolic BP (SBP). The primary safety measure was the incidence of adverse events (AEs). A total of 174 participants were included in the efficacy analysis. After 8 weeks, DBP decreased by -9.92 ± 0.86 mmHg in the AML + CC arm and - 2.08 ± 0.86 mmHg in the AML arm (p < 0.0001). SBP decreased by -14.27 ± 1.39 mmHg in the AML + CC arm versus - 2.77 ± 1.39 mmHg in the AML arm (p < 0.0001). AEs occurred in 11.24% of the AML + CC group and 5.62% of the AML group (p = 0.1773). AML + CC combination therapy demonstrated superior efficacy with good tolerance, making it a promising option for patients with inadequately controlled hypertension on amlodipine alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is uncertain whether the prognostic power of white matter hyperintensity (WMH) on post-stroke outcomes is modulated as a function of initial neurological severity, a critical determinant of outcome after stroke. This multi-center MRI study tested if higher WMH quintiles were associated with 3-month poor functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale ≥ 3) for mild versus moderate-to-severe ischemic stroke. Mild and moderate-to-severe stroke were defined as admission National Institute of Health Stroke Scale scores of 1–4 and ≥ 5, respectively. Mean age of the enrolled patients (n = 8918) was 67.2 ± 12.6 years and 60.1% male. The association between WMH quintiles and poor functional outcome was modified by stroke severity (p-for-interaction = 0.008). In mild stroke (n = 4994), WMH quintiles associated with the 3-month outcome in a dose-dependent manner for the 2nd to 5th quintile versus the 1st quintile, with adjusted-odds-ratios (aOR [95% confidence interval]) being 1.29 [0.96–1.73], 1.37 [1.02–1.82], 1.60 [1.19–2.13], and 1.89 [1.41–2.53], respectively. In moderate-to-severe stroke (n = 3924), however, there seemed to be a threshold effect: only the highest versus the lowest WMH quintile was significantly associated with poor functional outcome (aOR 1.69 [1.29–2.21]). WMH burden aggravates 3-month functional outcome after mild stroke, but has a lesser modulatory effect for moderate-to-severe stroke, likely due to saturation effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have revolutionized vaccine development, but their immunological mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, we investigate injection site responses of mRNA vaccines by generating a comprehensive single-cell transcriptome profile upon lipid nanoparticle (LNP) or LNP-mRNA challenge in female BALB/c mice. We show that LNP-induced stromal pro-inflammatory responses and mRNA-elicited type I interferon responses dominate the initial injection site responses. By tracking the fate of delivered mRNA, we discover that injection site fibroblasts are highly enriched with the delivered mRNA and that they express IFN-β specifically in response to the mRNA component, not to the LNP component of mRNA vaccines. Moreover, the mRNA-LNP, but not LNP alone, induces migratory dendritic cells highly expressing IFN-stimulated genes (mDC_ISGs) at the injection site and draining lymph nodes. When co-injected with LNP-subunit vaccine, IFN-β induces mDC_ISGs at the injection site, and importantly, it substantially enhances antigen-specific cellular immune responses. Furthermore, blocking IFN-β signaling at the injection site significantly decreases mRNA vaccine-induced cellular immune responses. Collectively, these data highlight the importance of injection site fibroblasts and IFN-β signaling during early immune responses against the mRNA vaccine and provide detailed information on the initial chain of immune reactions elicited by mRNA vaccine injection. The initial immune response following mRNA vaccine injection is not entirely clear. Here, the authors comprehensively profile injection site responses using single-cell transcriptomics in a mouse model showing activation of major axes of innate immune responses upon and the role of IFN-β to promote cellular immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2009, Lyubashevsky proposed a lattice-based signature scheme using the Schnorr-like identification and the Fiat-Shamir heuristic and proved its security under the collision resistance of a generalized compact knapsack function. However, their security analysis requires the witness indistinguishability property, leading to significant inefficiency and an increase of sizes of public key and signature. To overcome the efficiency issue associated with the WI property, we introduce a new lattice-based assumption, called the target-modified one-wayness problem of the GCK function and show its reduction to well-known lattice-based problems. Additionally, we present a simple and efficient GCK-based signature scheme, GCKSign, whose security is based on the Module GCK-TMO problem in the random oracle model. GCKSign is a natural extension of Lyubashevsky's scheme in a module setting, but achieves considerable efficiency gains due to eliminating the witness indistinguishability property. As a result, GCKSign achieves approximately 3.4 times shorter signature size and 2.4 times shorter public key size at the same security level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manipulating the grain boundary and chiral structure of enantiomorphic inorganic thermoelectric materials facilitates a new degree of freedom for enhancing thermoelectric energy conversion. Chiral twist mechanisms evolve by the screw dislocation phenomenon in the nanostructures; however, contributions of such chiral transport have been neglected for bulk crystals. Tellurium (Te) has a chiral trigonal crystal structure, high band degeneracy, and lattice anharmonicity for high thermoelectric performance. Here, Sb‐doped Te crystals are grown to minimize the severe grain boundary effects on carrier transport and investigate the interface of chiral Te matrix and embedded achiral Sb2Te3 precipitates, which induce unusual lattice twists. The low grain boundary scattering and conformational grain restructuring provide electrical‐favorable semicoherent interfaces. This maintains high electrical conductivity leading to a twofold increase in power factor compared to polycrystal samples. The embedded Sb2Te3 precipitates concurrently enable moderate phonon scattering leading to a remarkable decrease in lattice thermal conductivity and a high dimensionless figure of merit (zT) of 1.1 at 623 K. The crystal growth and chiral atomic reorientation unravel the emerging benefits of interface engineering as a crucial contributor to effectively enhancing carrier transport and minimizing phonon propagation in thermoelectric materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Thiazides are utilized in general hypertension management, however, their role in chronic kidney disease (CKD) hypertension management remains unclear. Although data support thiazide efficacy in advanced CKD, the adverse effect profile (including estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] decline and electrolyte abnormalities) may lead to thiazide discontinuation. The authors assessed the thiazide discontinuation rate in Kaiser Permanente Southern California members with moderate-to- severe CKD and hypertension. METHODS: This study was a multicenter retrospective analysis evaluating Kaiser Permanente Southern California members with hypertension and CKD 3B or 4 who filled a thiazide prescription in 2021, with follow-up through 2022. The outcomes were thiazide discontinuation rate, reason for thiazide discontinuation, time to thiazide discontinuation, and discontinuing practitioner specialty. Mean changes in blood pressure and eGFR from baseline were also evaluated. RESULTS: Of the 401 patients followed for 1 year after thiazide initiation, 65 patients discontinued a thiazide (discontinuation rate: 16.2%, mean time to discontinuation: 7.5 months). Of the 201 patients followed for 2 years after thiazide initiation, 57 patients discontinued a thiazide (discontinuation rate: 28.4%, mean time to discontinuation: 15.5 months). The most commonly documented thiazide discontinuation reason was increased serum creatinine (30% of total reasons at 1 year and 39% of total reasons at 2 years). CONCLUSION: Most patients with hypertension and CKD 3B or 4 continued on a thiazide with favorable blood pressure lowering effects and modest eGFR decline. Thiazides may be considered viable antihypertensive options with close renal function monitoring for patients with moderate-to-severe CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Duck hepatitis A virus (DHAV) is an infectious pathogen that causes fatal viral hepatitis in ducklings. Duck hepatitis A virus-1 (DHAV-1) is the most virulent and widely distributed serotype, inflicting severe damage on the global duck farming industry. The main approach to preventing DHAV-1 involves using attenuated live vaccines. However, these vaccine strains may persist in ducks and pose a risk of reverting to virulence. Therefore, distinguishing between infected and vaccinated animals is vital for clinical diagnosis and vaccine safety monitoring. Currently, only time-consuming and costly sequencing methods serve this purpose. In this study, a Mismatch Amplification Mutation Assay (MAMA)-PCR method was developed based on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) in the VP1 gene. The MAMA-PCR method offers a highly specific and sensitive clinical tool for rapidly distinguishing DHAV-1 wild-type from vaccine strains, significantly contributing to accurate clinical diagnosis and epidemiological understanding. Duck hepatitis A virus type 1 (DHAV-1) is the main pathogen causing viral hepatitis in ducks, marked by high contagion and acute mortality. Live attenuated DHAV-1 vaccines are widely used to control the disease. This study aims to develop a mismatch amplification mutation assay (MAMA)-PCR for the rapid detection and differentiation of Korean DHAV-1 wild-type strains from vaccine strains. A MAMA primer was designed to target a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) at position 2276 within the VP1 gene, allowing differentiation in a single PCR reaction. The MAMA-PCR accurately identified both strains, with detection limits of 100.5 ELD50/mL and 102.3 ELD50/mL, respectively. The MAMA-PCR demonstrated specificity, showing no cross-reactivity with 12 other viral and bacterial pathogens. The MAMA-PCR was applied to 89 farms, yielding results consistent with nested-PCR and sequence determination, identifying four positive farms for DHAV-1 vaccine strains. In conclusion, this study is the first to employ the MAMA-PCR method to distinguish between DHAV-1 wild-type and vaccine strains. The developed method is rapid, simple, specific, and sensitive, thereby serving as an effective tool for clinical diagnostics in identifying and differentiating between Korean DHAV-1 wild-type and vaccine strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Geriatric hip fracture patients have an increased risk of malnutrition. Proper nutritional supply in the perioperative period is very important for their recovery. Oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) are recommended in geriatric hip fracture patients to improve dietary intake and prevent complications. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of postoperative ONSs after total hip arthroplasty in geriatric hip fracture patients. Methods: A retrospective study of elderly patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty for hip fracture was conducted. Data from patients who received ONSs postoperatively until hospital discharge (ONS group, n = 69) were compared with patients who did not receive ONSs (control group, n = 168). Laboratory test results, including serum protein and albumin levels, length of hospital stay, and the incidence of postoperative medical complications of the two groups, were analyzed. Results: Preoperative serum protein and albumin levels were significantly higher in the control group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.010, respectively). However, the degree of decline for both protein and albumin levels was significantly less in the ONS group (p < 0.001 for both). Serum albumin levels were significantly higher in the ONS group at postoperative two-week follow-up (p = 0.006). The length of hospital stay was shorter in the ONS group (p < 0.001). The incidence of postoperative delirium was significantly higher in the control group (p = 0.007). Conclusions: In geriatric hip fracture patients, postoperative ONSs can improve postoperative nutritional status, shorten the length of hospital stay, and reduce the incidence of postoperative delirium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Nasal morphology is a significant aspect of facial anatomy and is often used for forensic identification and aesthetic surgery. This study aims to compare nasal dimensions based on sex, facial index (FI), and nasal index (NI) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and 3D modeling. Methods: To observe differences in nasal dimensions by sex and analyze the relationships between facial shapes (FI) and nasal forms (NI), a total of 100 participants (50 males, 50 females) in their 20s were selected from Dankook University Dental Hospital. CBCT scans were performed, and 3D models were created using Mimics software (version 22.0). The measurement items included the alaria distance between (AL), the distance between N (nasion) and SN (subnasale), the distance between N (nasion) and PRN (pronasale), and the distance between SN (subnasale) and PRN (pronasale). A T-test was used for the sex-based analysis of the nasal dimensions, and the facial index- and nasal index-based nasal dimensions were analyzed using a one-way ANOVA with Scherffe's post hoc test. Additionally, all the statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software (version 23.0). Results: The results indicated that males generally have larger nasal dimensions than females. Additionally, the mesoprosopic facial type (round face) showed the largest nasal dimensions in the FI classification, while the platyrrhine nasal type (broad and short nose) exhibited the largest dimensions in the NI classification. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the nasal size varies significantly with sex, facial shape, and nasal form. The findings can contribute to forensic identification and provide valuable data for clinical practices in facial reconstruction and nasal surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate and timely prediction of Napa cabbage fresh weight is essential for optimizing harvest timing, crop management, and supply chain logistics, which ultimately contributes to food security and price stabilization. Traditional manual sampling methods are labor-intensive and lack precision. This study introduces an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered model that utilizes unmanned aerial systems (UAS)-based multi-sensor data to predict Napa cabbage fresh weight. The model was developed using high-resolution RGB, multispectral (MSP), and thermal infrared (TIR) imagery collected throughout the 2020 growing season. The imagery was used to extract various vegetation indices, crop features (vegetation fraction, crop height model), and a water stress indicator (CWSI). The deep neural network (DNN) model consistently outperformed support vector machine (SVM) and random forest (RF) models, achieving the highest accuracy (R2 = 0.82, RMSE = 0.47 kg) during the mid-to-late rosette growth stage (35–42 days after planting, DAP). The model's accuracy improved with cabbage maturity, emphasizing the importance of the heading stage for fresh weight estimation. The model slightly underestimated the weight of Napa cabbages exceeding 5 kg, potentially due to limited samples and saturation effects of vegetation indices. The overall error rate was less than 5%, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach. Spatial analysis further revealed that the model accurately captured variability in Napa cabbage growth across different soil types and irrigation conditions, particularly reflecting the positive impact of drip irrigation. This study highlights the potential of UAS-based multi-sensor data and AI for accurate and non-invasive prediction of Napa cabbage fresh weight, providing a valuable tool for optimizing harvest timing and crop management. Future research should focus on refining the model for specific weight ranges and diverse environmental conditions, and extending its application to other crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microglia play a crucial role in synaptic elimination by engulfing dystrophic neurons via triggering receptors expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2). They are also involved in the clearance of beta‐amyloid (Aβ) plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD); nonetheless, the driving force behind TREM2‐mediated phagocytosis of beta‐amyloid (Aβ) plaques remains unknown. Here, using advanced 2D/3D/4D co‐culture systems with loss‐of‐function mutations in TREM2 (a frameshift mutation engineered in exon 2) brain organoids/microglia/assembloids, it is identified that the clearance of Aβ via TREM2 is accelerated by externalized phosphatidylserine (ePtdSer) generated from dystrophic neurons surrounding the Aβ plaques. Moreover, it is investigated whether microglia from both sporadic (CRISPR‐Cas9‐based APOE4 lines) and familial (APPNL‐G‐F/MAPT double knock‐in mice) AD models show reduced levels of TREM2 and lack of phagocytic activity toward ePtdSer‐positive Aβ plaques. Herein new insight is provided into TREM2‐dependent microglial phagocytosis of Aβ plaques in the context of the presence of ePtdSer during AD progression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to address the critical issue of age deterioration in prestressed concrete (PSC) structures by investigating the strengthening of aged PSC structures using a near-surface mounted (NSM) post-tensioned carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). A total of nine PSC beams, each with a length of 6.5 m, were fabricated for a four-point bending test. Various experimental parameters were taken into account, including the strengthening method, compressive strength of concrete in the PSC beam, and the prestressing force of the PSC beam. The results indicated that the NSM post-tensioned CFRP strengthening system proved more efficient when compared to the NSM non-post-tensioned CFRP strengthening system. The flexural capacity of the NSM post-tensioned CFRP strengthening system, under the deteriorated low-strength PSC beam, increased by up to 30.9% compared to the PSC reference beam. Additionally, the experimental results were compared to a finite-element analysis, and a parametric study was conducted to examine the material properties of the PSC beam. Consequently, the NSM post-tensioned CFRP strengthening system is expected to be an effective solution for addressing the issue of deteriorated low-strength PSC structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent advances in robotics technology and artificial intelligence (AI) have sparked increased interest in humanoid robots that resemble humans and social robots capable of interacting socially. Alongside this trend, a new field of robot research called human-robot interaction (HRI) is gaining prominence. The aim of this review paper is to introduce the fundamental concepts of HRI and social robots, examine their current applications in the medical field, and discuss the current and future prospects of HRI and social robots in spinal care. HRI is an interdisciplinary field where robotics, AI, social sciences, design, and various disciplines collaborate organically to develop robots that successfully interact with humans as the ultimate goal. While social robots are not yet widely deployed in clinical environments, ongoing HRI research encompasses various areas such as nursing and caregiving support, social and emotional assistance, rehabilitation and cognitive enhancement for the elderly, medical information provision and education, as well as patient monitoring and data collection. Although still in its early stages, research related to spinal care includes studies on robotic support for rehabilitation exercises, assistance in gait training, and questionnaire-based assessments for spinal pain. Future applications of social robots in spinal care will require diverse HRI research efforts and active involvement from spinal specialists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A new Liobagrus fish was reported from the Korean Peninsula, but research on this taxon is lacking. Moreover, existing research on the mitogenome of the genus Liobagrus in Korea is very limited, and no studies have been conducted on structural characteristics of transfer RNA (tRNA) or gene order comparisons between taxa; instead, research has been restricted to basic phylogeny. Objective: The complete mitochondrial genome of Liobagrus geumgangensis was analyzed for the first time. We then aimed to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships of the genus Liobagrus and estimate the divergence time of speciation events. Methods: We used a dissected fin clip from an adult of Liobagrus geumgangensis. Genomic DNA was extracted and analyzed with whole genome sequencing (WGS) and assembled by the NOVOPlasty method. The mitogenome sequence was annotated, and a genome map, tRNA structure, and phylogenetic tree were constructed using maximum likelihood analysis. In addition, divergence time was estimated. Results: The mitochondrial genome was 16,522 bp in length and comprised 37 genes. The overall base composition was 30.5% A, 25.5% T, 28.4% C, and 15.7% G. Most tRNAs exhibited the typical clover leaf shape, except trnS1. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Liobagrus geumgangensis clustered within a clade with four other Liobagrus species exclusive to the southern region of the Korean Peninsula. Its divergence was estimated to have occurred during the late Miocene. Conclusion: Characteristics of Liobagrus geumgangensis mitogenome were consistent with those of other torrent catfish species. Time scale estimation revealed distinct groupings, with some distributed across mainland Asia and others in the southern region of the Korean Peninsula. Notably, the Korean Peninsula group was identified as its own lineage, comprising entirely endemic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exosomes are nanovesicles 30–150 nm in diameter released extracellularly. Those isolated from human body fluids reflect the characteristics of their cells or tissues of origin. Exosomes carry extensive biological information from their parent cells and have significant potential as biomarkers for disease diagnosis and prognosis. However, there are limited studies utilizing exosomes in postmortem diagnostics. In this study, we extended our initial research which identified the presence and established detection methodologies for exosomes in postmortem fluids. We analyzed exosomal miRNA extracted from plasma and pericardial fluid samples of a control group (n = 13) and subjects with acute myocardial infarction (AMI; n = 24). We employed next-generation sequencing (NGS) to investigate whether this miRNA could serve as biomarkers for coronary atherosclerosis leading to acute myocardial infarction. Our analysis revealed 29 miRNAs that were differentially expressed in the AMI group compared to the control group. Among these, five miRNAs exhibited more than a twofold increase in expression across all samples from the AMI group. Specifically, miR-486-5p levels were significantly elevated in patients with high-grade (type VI or above) atherosclerotic plaques, as per the American Heart Association criteria, highlighting its potential as a predictive biomarker for coronary atherosclerosis progression. Our results indicate that postmortem-derived exosomal microRNAs can serve as potential biomarkers for various human diseases, including cardiovascular disorders. This finding has profound implications for forensic diagnostics, a field critically lacking diagnostic markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the characteristics of ammonia and their effects on secondary particulate matter (PM) formation were analyzed by region in Korea in 2020. The NH3 concentration was high in GJ (11.4 ppb), a neighboring agricultural area, followed by DJ (9.0 ppb) and SE (8.6 ppb), which are located in urban areas. On the other hand, BI (2.6 ppb) and JI (4.5 ppb), which are background regions, demonstrated a lower concentration than other areas. Seasonally, ammonia was high in spring and summer, and it generally increased when human activities are active. Therefore, it is believed that the ammonia in the atmosphere not only changes depending on local emissions, but also based on temperature-dependent phase distribution characteristics. For SE and GJ, regions with relatively high ammonia concentrations, investigations into the effect of ammonia on secondary PM formation were conducted. In both regions, the ammonium-to-sulfate mole ratio tended to increase with increasing ammonia or PM2.5 concentration. It can be assumed that the PM2.5 concentration increases as nitrates are formed under the ammonia-sufficient condition. The adjusted gas ratio is generally greater than 4, indicating that there is a lot of free ammonia. Thus, it is estimated that a reduction in ammonia would not be effective to restrain nitrate formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cartilage, a critical tissue for joint function, often degenerates due to osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and trauma. Recent research underscores necroptosis, a regulated form of necrosis, as a key player in cartilage degradation. Unlike apoptosis, necroptosis triggers robust inflammatory responses, exacerbating tissue damage. Key mediators such as receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase-1 (RIPK1), receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase-3(RIPK3), and mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) are pivotal in this process. Studies reveal necroptosis contributes significantly to OA and RA pathophysiology, where elevated RIPK3 and associated proteins drive cartilage degradation. Targeting necroptotic pathways shows promise; inhibitors like Necrostatin-1 (Nec-1), GSK'872, and Necrosulfonamide (NSA) reduce necroptotic cell death, offering potential therapeutic avenues. Additionally, autophagy's role in mitigating necroptosis-induced damage highlights the need for comprehensive strategies addressing multiple pathways. Despite these insights, further research is essential to fully understand necroptosis' mechanisms and develop effective treatments. This review synthesizes current knowledge on necroptosis in cartilage degeneration, aiming to inform novel therapeutic approaches for OA, RA, and trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims In patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a potent P2Y12 inhibitor is recommended for 12 months after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation. Monotherapy with a potent P2Y12 inhibitor after short-term DAPT is an attractive option to better balance the risks of ischaemia and bleeding. Therefore, this study evaluated the efficacy and safety of ticagrelor monotherapy after short-term DAPT, especially in patients with ACS. Methods Electronic databases were searched from inception to 11 November 2023, and for the primary analysis, individual patient data were pooled from the relevant randomized clinical trials comparing ticagrelor monotherapy after short-term (≤3 months) DAPT with ticagrelor-based 12-month DAPT, exclusively in ACS patients undergoing DES implantation. The co-primary endpoints were ischaemic endpoint (composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, or stroke) and bleeding endpoint [Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) type 3 or 5 bleeding] at 1 year. Results Individual patient data from two randomized clinical trials including 5906 ACS patients were analysed. At 1 year, the primary ischaemic endpoint did not differ between the ticagrelor monotherapy and ticagrelor-based DAPT groups [1.9% vs. 2.5%; adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.79; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.56–1.13; P =.194]. The incidence of the primary bleeding endpoint was lower in the ticagrelor monotherapy group (2.4% vs. 4.5%; adjusted HR 0.54; 95% CI 0.40–0.72; P <.001). The results were consistent in a secondary aggregate data meta-analysis including the ACS subgroup of additional randomized clinical trials which enrolled patients with ACS as well as chronic coronary syndrome. Conclusions In ACS patients undergoing DES implantation, ticagrelor monotherapy after short-term DAPT was associated with less major bleeding without a concomitant increase in ischaemic events compared with ticagrelor-based 12-month DAPT. Study registration PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023476470). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concern regarding tetrodotoxin (TTX), a highly hazardous marine neurotoxin found in puffer fish, has expanded beyond Asia due to the migration of puffer fish caused by the rise in global temperatures. This highlights the urgent need to develop fast yet reliable methods for detecting TTX. In this study, we developed a peptide-based potentiometric TTX sensor based on a polypyrrole/Au nanoparticle-modified carbon screen-printed electrode (PPy/AuNP SPE). The bioreceptor responsible for recognizing TTX is a specific binding peptide that was discovered through phage display technique. The phage-displayed peptide candidates were sorted based on frequency and similarity, and their binding affinity was subsequently assessed via phage enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The C-terminal of the specific binding peptide was then modified with cysteamine to facilitate its immobilization through Au–S bonding on the PPy/AuNP SPE platform, thereby constructing the TTX sensor. The sensing platform was prepared by successive electrodeposition of polypyrrole and AuNP onto the surface of carbon SPE as a substrate. Both materials play significant roles to improve the poor conductivity of carbon SPE and provide sufficient immobilization sites for TTX receptors, respectively. Finally, the PPy/AuNP TTX sensor demonstrated a detection limit of around 2.80 ppb with a detection range from 2 to 1000 ppb, making it a promising platform for rapid and reliable marine toxin detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In South Korea, a mandatory nation-wide foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccination policy is in place. However, a major side effect of the current method of intramuscular (IM) administration of oil-adjuvanted FMD vaccines is the formation of granulomas in the muscles of pigs. To address this issue, we assessed the possible application of intradermal (ID) vaccination. Initially, we compared the serological immune response in specific pathogen-free pigs inoculated with FMD vaccines formulated with eight different adjuvants, administered twice at the neck site using a syringe with a needle via the ID route. Among the formulations (water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W), oil-in-water (O/W), and polymer nanomaterials), ISA 207 of W/O/W was the most effective in inducing immunogenicity followed by ISA 201 of W/O/W. ISA 207 was further tested in formulations of different antigen doses (12 or 1.2 μg) delivered via both IM and ID routes. All four treatments successfully protected the pigs against FMD virus challenges. To assess the feasibility of the field application of the vaccines with ISA 207, we conducted ID vaccination of conventional pigs using a needle-free device, resulting in the detection of significant levels of neutralizing antibodies. ISA 207 was shown to be superior to ISA 201 in inducing immunogenicity via the ID route. In conclusion, ISA 207 could be a suitable adjuvant for ID vaccination in terms of vaccine efficacy for FMD, allowing for alternate use of ID vaccination and subsequent reduction in the incidences of granuloma formation in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we developed and validated a multiresidue analytical method for the simultaneous detection of 24 pesticides in fishery products. Using the EN15662 extraction method and C18 as the adsorbent for purification, the validation results complied with Codex guidelines, achieving recovery rates between 70% and 120% and relative standard deviation values (%RSD) within 20%, indicating excellent performance. The limit of detection ranged from 0.25 to 0.8 ng/kg, and the limit of quantification was between 3 and 10 ng/g, providing sufficient sensitivity to comply with future regulatory standards. The calibration curves for all 24 pesticides exhibited great linearity (R2 > 0.98), also satisfying the Codex requirements. The matrix effect was less than 30% for some pesticides—within ±20%—indicating minimal interference from impurities. An analysis of 300 fishery samples from nine regions across South Korea detected lufenuron at 10 ng/g in eels; however, the risk assessment was below 0.19%, posing no significant hazard to public health. This newly developed analytical method proved effective for the multi-analysis of pesticide residues in fishery products, offering rapid and reliable monitoring of the import and export safety of fishery products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a lack of information on the waitlist performance and post‐transplant outcomes of lung transplants in elderly recipients in Korea. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed and analyzed data from the Korean Network for Organ Sharing database between March 2010 and August 2023. Results: In total, 2574 patients were listed for lung transplantation during the study period, with 511 (19.9%) of them being over 65 years of age. Among these, 188 patients (36.8%) underwent transplantation, while 184 patients (36%) passed away without undergoing transplantation at the time of data extraction. The most prevalent underlying disease on the waitlist was idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, accounting for 68.1%. The 1‐year survival rate was significantly lower in the elderly compared to that in the nonelderly (65.4 vs. 75.4%; p =.004). In the multivariate Cox analysis, elderly (hazard ratio [HR], 1.49; 95% CI, 1.14–1.97; p =.004) and a high urgent status at registration (HR, 1.83; 95% CI, 1.40–2.40; p <.001) were significantly associated with post‐transplant 1‐year mortality. Kaplan–Meier curves demonstrated a significant difference in post‐transplant mortality based on the urgency status at enrollment (χ2 = 8.302, p =.016). Even with the same highly urgent condition at the time of transplantation, different prognoses were observed depending on the condition at listing (χ2 = 9.056, p =.029). Conclusion: The elderly exhibited worse transplant outcomes than nonelderly adults, with a highly urgent status at registration identified as a significant risk factor. Unprepared, highly urgent transplantation was associated with poor outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: This study investigated whether there is an association between elderly frailty and asthma. Material Methods: We examined 9745 elderly participants who did not have asthma and 275 elderly patients who had asthma diagnosed by a doctor from the 2020 Survey of Living Conditions and Welfare Needs of Korean Older Persons Survey. Study Selections: The Korean version of the fatigue, resistance, ambulation, illnesses, and loss of weight (K-FRAIL) scale was used to determine their level of frailty. The relationship between frailty and geriatric asthma was examined using multiple logistic regression analysis, which was adjusted for a number of confounding variables (socioeconomic, health behavior, psychological characteristics, and functional status). Results: Frailty as defined by the K-FRAIL scale was significantly higher in the asthma group (7.6%) than the non-asthma group (4.9%). The frailty phenotype component showed that resistance, ambulation, and illness severity were more severe in the asthma group than the non-asthma group. After adjusting, asthma was significantly associated with an increased risk of frailty (OR 1.45; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–2.09) compared to the non-asthma group. Conclusions: Frailty might be associated with elderly asthma in patients from the Korean population. Frailty may not only be associated with asthma, but also with other diseases. So, more evidence is needed to establish this association. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate whether and how the market for corporate control affects the demand for audit service in a cross-country setting. In so doing, we exploit the staggered enactments of merger and acquisition (M&A) laws as an exogenous shock that substantially increases takeover pressure. We find that firms are more likely to choose Big 4 auditors in the period after the enactment of M&A laws, suggesting that the takeover pressure heightened by the passage of M&A laws increases the demand for audit verification and assurance by high-quality auditors. We also find that the enactment of M&A laws leads to greater demand for Big 4 auditors through two channels: managerial commitment to curtailing agency problems and the enhancement of board monitoring. We further show that improved auditor quality facilitates creditors' and investors' reliance on accounting information, as reflected in greater use of accounting-based debt covenants and enhanced earnings informativeness, respectively, in the post-enactment period. Overall our results suggest that auditors play a key role in strengthening corporate governance after the enactment of M&A laws. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have been demonstrated to decrease cardiovascular adverse events. However, there is little real‐world clinical evidence regarding a direct comparison between dapagliflozin and empagliflozin in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Hypothesis: A difference in the cardiovascular efficancy of dapagliflozin versus empagliflozin in DM patients was anticipated, aiming to guide the optimal choice of SGLT2 inhibitors based on cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: From 2014 to 2020, a total of 1549 patients with DM who were prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors such as dapagliflozin or empagliflozin were retrospectively enrolled. We categorized the study population into two groups: dapagliflozin (n = 981) and empagliflozin group (n = 568). The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as a composite of all‐cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or hospitalization for heart failure (HF) over a 3‐year period. Results: Propensity‐score matching was performed (537 patients in each group). The mean age and hemoglobin A1c were 58.2 ± 13.0 years and 8.4 ± 1.7%, respectively. There was no significant difference between the dapagliflozin and empagliflozin groups in the risk of MACE (3.7% vs. 4.8%, hazard ratio [HR], 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73–2.35; p = 0.349). Furthermore, there were no differences between the two groups in secondary endpoints including all‐cause death, MI, stroke, and hospitalization for HF. Prior MI and history of HF were independent predictors of MACE. Conclusions: Dapagliflozin and empagliflozin showed no significant difference of real‐world clinical cardiovascular outcomes in patients with DM over a 3‐year period. Further large randomized clinical trials will be warranted for better evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]