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Background/Aims: Bleeding events after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have important prognostic implications. Data on the influence of an abnormal ankle-brachial index (ABI) on both ischemic and bleeding events in patients undergoing PCI are limited.Methods: We included patients who underwent PCI with available ABI data (abnormal ABI, ≤ 0.9 or > 1.4). The primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and major bleeding.Results: Among 4,747 patients, an abnormal ABI was observed in 610 patients (12.9%). During follow-up (median, 31 months), the 5-year cumulative incidence of adverse clinical events was higher in the abnormal ABI group than in the normal ABI group: primary endpoint (36.0% vs. 14.5%, log-rank test, p < 0.001); all-cause death (19.4% vs. 5.1%, log-rank test, p < 0.001); MI (6.3% vs. 4.1%, log-rank test, p = 0.013); stroke (6.2% vs. 2.7%, log-rank test, p = 0.001); and major bleeding (8.9% vs. 3.7%, log-rank test, p < 0.001). An abnormal ABI was an independent risk factor for all-cause death (hazard ratio [HR], 3.05; p < 0.001), stroke (HR, 1.79; p = 0.042), and major bleeding (HR, 1.61; p = 0.034).Conclusions: An abnormal ABI is a risk factor for both ischemic and bleeding events after PCI. Our study findings may be helpful in determining the optimal method for secondary prevention after PCI.

Aims Atherothrombotic events are influenced by systemic hypercoagulability and fibrinolytic activity. The present study evaluated thrombogenicity indices and their prognostic implications according to disease acuity. Methods and results From the consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), those with thrombogenicity indices (n = 2705) were grouped according to disease acuity [acute myocardial infarction (AMI) vs. non-AMI]. Thrombogenicity indices were measured by thromboelastography (TEG). Blood samples for TEG were obtained immediately after insertion of the PCI sheath, and TEG tracing was performed within 4 h post-sampling. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, a composite of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and non-fatal stroke) were evaluated for up to 4 years. Compared with non-AMI patients, AMI patients had higher platelet-fibrin clot strength [maximal amplitude (MA): 66.5 ± 7.8 vs. 65.3 ± 7.2 mm, P < 0.001] and lower fibrinolytic activity [clot lysis at 30 min (LY30): 0.9 ± 1.8% vs. 1.1 ± 1.9%, P < 0.001]. Index AMI presentation was associated with MA [per one-mm increase: odds ratio (OR): 1.024; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.013–1.036; P < 0.001] and LY30 (per one% increase: OR: 0.934; 95% CI: 0.893–0.978; P = 0.004). The presence of high platelet-fibrin clot strength (MA ≥68 mm) and low fibrinolytic activity (LY30 < 0.2%) was synergistically associated with MACE occurrence. In the multivariable analysis, the combined phenotype of ‘MA ≥ 68 mm’ and ‘LY30 < 0.2%’ was a major predictor of post-PCI MACE in the AMI group [adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 1.744; 95% CI: 1.135–2.679; P = 0.011], but not in the non-AMI group (adjusted HR: 1.031; 95% CI: 0.499–2.129; P = 0.935). Conclusion AMI occurrence is significantly associated with hypercoagulability and impaired fibrinolysis. Their combined phenotype increases the risk of post-PCI atherothrombotic event only in AMI patients. These observations may support individualized therapy that targets thrombogenicity for better outcomes in patients with AMI. Clinical Trial Registration Gyeongsang National University Hospital (G-NUH) Registry, NCT04650529.

Background High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) has been proposed as an indicator of inflammation and cardiovascular risk. However, little is known of the comparative temporal profile of hs-CRP and its relation to outcomes according to the disease acuity. Methods We enrolled 4,263 East Asian patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and stable disease. hs-CRP was measured at baseline and 1 month post-PCI. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE: the composite occurrence of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke) and major bleeding were followed up to 4 years. Result The AMI group (n = 2,376; 55.7%) had higher hs-CRPbaseline than the non-AMI group (n = 1,887; 44.3%) (median: 1.5 vs. 1.0 mg/L; p Conclusion AMI patients have greater inflammation during the early and late phases than non-AMI patients. Risk phenotype of hs-CRPbaseline correlates with 1-month outcomes only in AMI patients. However, the prognostic implications of this risk phenotype appears similar during the late phase, irrespective of the disease acuity.

Early-onset acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may have a higher genetic predisposition than late-onset AMI does. The present study aimed to identify and characterize germline variants that affect early-onset AMI using whole-genome sequencing (WGS). We performed a genome-wide association study based on WGS of 1,239 Koreans, including 596 early-onset AMI patients and 643 healthy individuals. Patients with AMI who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) caused by atherothrombotic occlusive lesions were included in the study. A total of 29 novel loci were found to be associated with early-onset AMI. These loci are involved in thrombosis, fibrinolysis, inflammation, and lipid metabolism. One of the associated single nucleotide variants (SNVs), rs1614576, located upstream of PRKCB, is known to be associated with thrombus formation. Additionally, the results revealed a novel locus, rs78631167, located upstream of PLAUR which plays a critical role in regulating plasminogen activation and is related to fibrinolysis. The association between early-onset AMI and rs9357455, which is located upstream of PHACTR1 that regulates inflammation in AMI, was found. Moreover, we could identify a lipid metabolism related genetic risk locus, rs5072, in the APOA1-AS gene. This study provides new evidence supporting the genetic association between early-onset AMI and thrombosis and fibrinolysis, as well as inflammation and lipid metabolism, by analyzing the whole-genome of 596 patients with early-onset AMI who have been treated with PCI. Our findings highlight potential genetic markers for the prediction and management of AMI, as well as for understanding the etiology of AMI.

Hair cycle arrest (HCA) is a noninflammatory alopecic disease affecting various dog breeds, particularly Pomeranian dogs. This disease is probably a hereditary disorder considering the strong breed predisposition. Despite efforts to identify the pathogenesis of this disease, an underlying specific cause is unknown.To identify candidate gene mutations for HCA in Pomeranian dogs.Four Pomeranian dogs diagnosed with HCA and four unaffected Pomeranian dogs.Whole blood was used for DNA extraction. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed, and variants were analysed using a Genome Analysis Toolkit (GATK) and SnpEff. All reads were aligned to the reference genome, Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha. Sanger sequencing was performed to define the complex mutations.A total of 113 variants of mitochondrial DNA were found to be effective gene mutations in the eight dogs. The affected dogs showed significantly increased effective mutations (average 57 variants) compared with unaffected dogs (average eight variants; p 0.05). There was no significant difference in the number of chromosomal DNA mutations between the two groups.We suggest that an increased number of mitochondrial gene mutations are features for HCA in Pomeranian dogs.L'arrêt du cycle pilaire (HCA) est une alopécie non inflammatoire affectant diverses races de chiens, en particulier les chiens de Poméranie. Cette maladie est probablement une maladie héréditaire compte tenu de la forte prédisposition raciale. Malgré les efforts pour identifier la pathogenèse de cette maladie, une cause spécifique sous-jacente est inconnue.Identifier les mutations du gène candidat pour HCA chez les chiens de Poméranie.Quatre chiens de Poméranie diagnostiqués avec HCA et quatre chiens de Poméranie non affectés. MATÉRIELS ET MÉTHODES: Du sang total a été utilisé pour l'extraction de l'ADN. Le séquençage du génome entier (WGS) a été réalisé et les variants ont été analysés à l'aide d'un kit d'outils d'analyse du génome (GATK) et de SnpEff. Toutes les lectures ont été alignées sur le génome de référence, Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha. Un séquençage Sanger a été réalisé pour définir les mutations complexes. RÉSULTATS: Un total de 113 variantes de l'ADN mitochondrial se sont révélées être des mutations génétiques efficaces chez les huit chiens. Les chiens affectés ont montré une augmentation significative des mutations efficaces (moyenne de 57 variantes) par rapport aux chiens non affectés (moyenne de huit variantes) (P 0,05). Il n'y avait pas de différence significative dans le nombre de mutations chromosomiques de l'ADN entre les deux groupes.Nous suggérons qu'un nombre accru de mutations du gène mitochondrial sont des caractéristiques de l'HCA chez les chiens de Poméranie.INTRODUCCIÓN: la paralización del ciclo del pelo (HCA, por sus siglas en inglés) es una enfermedad alopécica no inflamatoria que afecta a varias razas de perros, en particular a los perros Pomeranian. Esta enfermedad es probablemente un trastorno hereditario considerando la fuerte predisposición racial. A pesar de los esfuerzos por identificar la patogenia de esta enfermedad, se desconoce una causa específica subyacente. OBJETIVO: identificar mutaciones genéticas candidatas para HCA en perros Pomeranian. ANIMALES: cuatro perros pomeranian diagnosticados con HCA y cuatro perros pomeranian no afectados. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Se utilizó sangre entera para la extracción de DNA. Se realizó la secuenciación del genoma completo (WGS) y las variantes se analizaron utilizando un kit de herramientas de análisis del genoma (GATK) y SnpEff. Todas las lecturas se alinearon con el genoma de referencia, Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha. Se realizó la secuenciación de Sanger para definir las mutaciones complejas. RESULTADOS: se encontraron un total de 113 variantes de DNA mitocondrial que eran mutaciones genéticas efectivas en los ocho perros. Los perros afectados mostraron un aumento significativo de mutaciones efectivas (promedio de 57 variantes) en comparación con los perros no afectados (promedio de ocho variantes) (P 0,05). No hubo diferencia significativa en el número de mutaciones de DNA cromosómico entre los dos grupos. CONCLUSIÓN E IMPORTANCIA CLÍNICA: sugerimos que un mayor número de mutaciones genéticas mitocondriales son características de HCA en perros Pomeranian.Ein Haarzyklusarrest (HCA) ist eine nicht entzündliche alopezische Erkrankung, die verschiedene Hunderassen betrifft, vor allem Pomeranier. Wenn man die starke Rassenprädisposition in Betracht zieht, stellt diese Krankheit vermutlich eine angeborene Veränderung dar. Bisher ist die zugrundeliegende Ursache noch unbekannt, obwohl es Versuche gegeben hat, die Pathogenese dieser Krankheit zu erforschen. ZIEL: Die Identifizierung von Kandidatengenmutationen für die HCA von Pomeraniern.Vier Pomeranier, die mit HCA diagnostiziert worden waren und vier nicht betroffene Pomeranier.Vollblut wurde zur DNA-Extraktion verwendet. Eine Gesamtgenom Sequenzierung (WGS) wurde durchgeführt und Varianten mittels Genom Analysise Toolkit (GATK) und SnpEff analysiert. Alle ausgelesenen Genome wurden mit dem Referenzgenom, Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha, verglichen. Es wurde eine Sanger Sequenzierung durchgeführt, um die komplexen Mutationen zu definieren.Insgesamt wurden 113 Varianten mitochondraler DNA gefunden, die wirksame Genmutationen bei acht Hunden darstellten. Die betroffenen Hunde zeigten signifikant erhöhte wirksame Mutationen (im Durchschnitt 57 Varianten) im Vergleich zu nicht betroffenen Hunden (im Durchschnitt acht Varianten) (P 0,05). Es bestand kein signifikanter Unterschied bei der Anzahl der chromosomalen DNA-Mutationen zwischen den beiden Gruppen.Wir weisen darauf hin, dass eine zunehmende Anzahl mitochondraler Genmutationen Merkmale des HCA von Pomeraniern darstellen.背景: 毛周期停止は、様々な犬種、特にポメラニアン犬に発症する非炎症性の脱毛症である。この疾患は、犬種の強い素因を考慮すると、おそらく遺伝性疾患であると考えられる。本疾患の病態解明が進められているが、その根底にある特異的な原因は不明である。 目的: 本研究の目的は、ポメラニアンにおける毛周期停止の候補遺伝子変異を同定することであった。 供試動物: 毛周期停止と診断されたポメラニアン4頭および非罹患のポメラニアン4頭。 材料と方法: DNA抽出には全血を使用した。全ゲノム配列決定(WGS)を行い、ゲノム解析ツールキット(GATK)およびSnpEffを用いてバリアント解析を実施した。すべてのリードは参照ゲノムであるDog10K_Boxer_Tashaにアライメントされた。複雑な変異を定義するためにサンガー配列決定が行われた。 結果: 8頭の犬において、ミトコンドリアDNAの合計113の変異が有効な遺伝子変異であることが判明した。罹患犬は非罹患犬(平均8バリアント)と比較して、有意に有効変異が増加した(平均57バリアント)(P 0.05)。染色体DNAの変異数には、両群間に有意差はなかった。 結論と臨床的重要性: ミトコンドリア遺伝子変異の増加は、ポメラニアンの毛周期停止の特徴であることが示唆された。.背景: 毛发周期停滞 (HCA) 是一种非炎性脱毛症，可以发生在各种犬种，尤其是博美犬。考虑到强烈的品种倾向性，这种疾病可能是一种遗传性疾病。尽管努力确定这种疾病的发病机制，但其潜在的具体原因尚不清楚。 目的: 鉴定博美犬 HCA 的候选基因突变。 动物: 4只诊断为 HCA 的博美犬和4只健康博美犬。 材料和方法: 使用全血提取DNA。进行全基因组测序 (WGS)，并使用基因组分析工具包 (GATK) 和 SnpEff 分析变体。所有读段均与参考基因组Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha一致。进行 Sanger 测序以确定复杂突变。 结果: 在8只犬中共发现113个线粒体 DNA 的变异体是有效的基因突变。与健康犬(平均8个变异)相比，病犬表现出有效突变显著增加(平均57个变异)(P 0.05)。两组染色体 DNA 突变数差异无统计学意义。 结论和临床意义: 我们认为线粒体基因突变数量增加是博美犬 HCA 的特征。.O sequestro folicular (SF) é uma doença alopécica não inflamatória que afeta várias raças de cães, particularmente lulus da Pomerânia. Esta doença é provavelmente um distúrbio hereditário considerando a forte predisposição da raça. Apesar dos esforços para identificar a patogênese desta doença, não se tem conhecimento de uma causa específica.Identificar mutações genéticas candidatas para SF em lulus da Pomerânia.Quatro cães da raça lulu da Pomerânia diagnosticados com SF e quatro cães da raça lulu da Pomerânia não afetados. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Utilizou-se sangue total para extração de DNA. O sequenciamento do genoma completo (WGS) foi realizado e as variantes foram analisadas usando um Genome Analysis Toolkit (GATK) e SnpEff. Todas as leituras foram alinhadas ao genoma de referência, Dog10K_Boxer_Tasha. Realizou-se o sequenciamento de Sanger para definir as mutações complexas.Um total de 113 variantes de DNA mitocondrial foram encontradas como mutações genéticas eficazes nos oito cães. Os cães afetados apresentaram mutações efetivas significativamente aumentadas (média de 57 variantes) em comparação com cães não afetados (média de oito variantes) (P0,05). Não houve diferença significativa no número de mutações do DNA cromossômico entre os dois grupos. CONCLUSÃO E IMPORTÂNCIA CLÍNICA: Sugerimos que um número aumentado de mutações genéticas mitocondriais são características para SF em lulus da Pomerânia.

East Asian population has a low level of inflammation compared with Western population. The prognostic implication of residual inflammatory risk (RIR) remains uncertain in East Asians.This study sought to provide an analysis to estimate early-determined RIR and its association with clinical outcomes in East Asian patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).In an East Asian registry including patients with CAD undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (n = 4,562), RIR status was determined by measuring high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) serially at admission and at 1-month follow-up. Patients were stratified into 4 groups according to hsCRP criteria (≥2 mg/L): 1) persistent low RIR (lowIn our cohort, median levels of hsCRP were significantly decreased over time (1.3 to 0.9 mg/L;Approximately one-fifth of East Asian patients with CAD have persistent high RIR, which shows the close association with occurrence of ischemic and bleeding events. (Gyeongsang National University Hospital Registry [GNUH]; NCT04650529).

Cold atmospheric microwave plasma (CAMP) is a promising therapeutic option for treating skin infections and wounds. Changes in biophysical skin parameters and the tolerability in dogs after applying CAMP is unknown.This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo effects of CAMP on skin biophysical parameters [hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and surface temperature] and tolerability in dogs.Twenty client-owned dogs with normal skin.Cold atmospheric microwave plasma treatment was performed for 30 s and 1, 2 and 4 min, respectively, at different sites of normal canine skin in the inguinal area. Hydration, TEWL and surface temperature were measured five, three and three times, respectively, before and after CAMP application. After treatment, pain and adverse effects were evaluated using a modified Melbourne Pain Scale and the modified short form Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale (modified CMPS-SF).Transepidermal water loss values significantly decreased with 4 min of treatment, and hydration decreased significantly with 2 min of treatment. Temperature increased significantly with increasing treatment time. For other parameters, no significant changes were observed. No significant pain response or adverse effects were observed in most dogs, aside from mild erythema in the treatment area after 4 min.Cold atmospheric microwave plasma treatment was well-tolerated and did not significantly change canine skin biophysical parameters. CAMP achieves basic recommendations for safe use and is a potential therapeutic option for various skin diseases in dogs.Contexte - Le CAMP (Cold Atmospheric Microwave Plasma) est une option thérapeutique prometteuse pour le traitement des infections cutanées et des plaies. Les modifications des paramètres biophysiques de la peau et la tolérance chez les chiens après l'application de CAMP sont inconnues. Objectif - Cette étude visait à évaluer les effets in vivo du CAMP sur les paramètres biophysiques de la peau [hydratation, perte d'eau transépidermique (TEWL) et température de surface] et la tolérance chez le chien. Animaux - Vingt chiens de propriétaires à peau normale. Matériels et méthodes - Le traitement CAMP a été effectué pendant 30 s et 1, 2 et 4 min, respectivement, sur différents sites de peau canine normale dans la région inguinale. L'hydratation, la TEWL et la température de surface ont été mesurées cinq, trois et trois fois, respectivement, avant et après l'application de CAMP. Après le traitement, la douleur et les effets indésirables ont été évalués à l'aide d'une échelle de douleur de Melbourne modifiée et de la forme courte modifiée de l'échelle de mesure de la douleur composite de Glasgow (CMPS-SF modifiée). Résultats - Les valeurs de TEWL ont diminué de manière significative après 4 minutes de traitement et l'hydratation a diminué de manière significative après 2 minutes de traitement. La température a augmenté de manière significative avec l'augmentation du temps de traitement. Pour les autres paramètres, aucun changement significatif n'a été observé. Aucune réponse significative à la douleur ni aucun effet indésirable n'ont été observés chez la plupart des chiens, à l'exception d'un léger érythème dans la zone de traitement après 4 minutes. Conclusion et signification clinique - Le traitement CAMP a été bien toléré et n'a pas modifié de manière significative les paramètres biophysiques de la peau canine. CAMP répond aux recommandations de base pour une utilisation sûre et constitue une option thérapeutique potentielle pour diverses maladies de la peau chez les chiens.Introducción- el plasma de microondas atmosférico frío (CAMP) es una opción terapéutica prometedora para el tratamiento de infecciones y heridas de la piel. Se desconocen los cambios en los parámetros biofísicos de la piel y la tolerabilidad en perros después de aplicar CAMP. Objetivo- este estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar los efectos in vivo de CAMP en los parámetros biofísicos de la piel [hidratación, pérdida de agua transepidérmica (TEWL) y temperatura superficial] y la tolerabilidad en perros. Animales - Veinte perros de propietarios particulares con piel normal. Materiales y métodos - El tratamiento CAMP se realizó durante 30 s y 1, 2 y 4 min, respectivamente, en diferentes sitios de piel canina normal en el área inguinal. La hidratación, el TEWL y la temperatura superficial se midieron cinco, tres y tres veces, respectivamente, antes y después de la aplicación de CAMP. Después del tratamiento, el dolor y los efectos adversos se evaluaron mediante una escala de dolor de Melbourne modificada y la escala de dolor de medida compuesta de Glasgow de forma abreviada modificada (CMPS-SF modificada). Resultados- los valores de TEWL disminuyeron significativamente con 4 min de tratamiento y la hidratación disminuyó significativamente con 2 min de tratamiento. La temperatura aumentó significativamente con el aumento del tiempo de tratamiento. Para otros parámetros no se observaron cambios significativos. En la mayoría de los perros no se observaron reacciones significativas de dolor ni efectos adversos, aparte de un leve eritema en el área de tratamiento después de 4 min. Conclusión y significado clínico- el tratamiento con CAMP fue bien tolerado y no cambió significativamente los parámetros biofísicos de la piel canina. CAMP obtuvo recomendaciones básicas para un uso seguro y es una opción terapéutica potencial para diversas enfermedades de la piel en perros.Hintergrund - Kaltes atmosphärisches Mikrowellen Plasma (CAMP) ist eine vielversprechende therapeutische Option zur Behandlung von Hautinfektionen und Wunden. Veränderungen der biophysischen Hautparameter und der Toleranz bei Hunden nach Anwendung von CAMP ist bisher nicht bekannt. Ziel - Diese Studie zielte darauf ab, die in vivo Wirksamkeit von CAMP auf biophysische Parameter der Haut [Hydration, Transepidermaler Wasserverlust (TEWL) und die Oberflächentemperatur] und die Verträglichkeit bei Hunden zu evaluieren. Tiere - Es wurden zwanzig Hunde in Privatbesitz, alle mit normaler Haut, inkludiert. Materialien und Methoden - Eine CAMP Behandlung wurde für 30 s und 1, 2 bzw 4 Minuten an verschiedenen Stellen normaler Hundehaut in der Inguinalgegend durchgeführt. Hydration, TEWL und die Oberflächentemperatur wurde fünf, drei bzw dreimal vor und nach der CAMP Anwendung gemessen. Nach der Behandlung wurden Schmerz und Nebenwirkungen mittels modifizierter Melbourne Pain Scale sowie der modifizierten Kurzform der Glasgow Measure Pain Scale (modifizierte CMPS-SF) evaluiert. Ergebnisse - Die TEWL Werte nahmen nach 4 Minuten der Behandlung, die Hydration nach 2 Behandlungsminuten signifikant ab. Die Temperatur nahm mit zunehmender Behandlungsdauer signifikant zu. Für die anderen Parameter konnten keine signifikanten Veränderungen beobachtet werden. Es wurden bei den meisten Hunden keine signifikanten Schmerzreaktionen oder Nebenwirkungen beobachtet, außer einem geringen Erythem nach 4 Minuten in der behandelten Körperregion. Schlussfolgerungen und klinische Bedeutung - Die Behandlung mit CAMP wurde gut toleriert und veränderte die biophysischen Parameter der Hundehaut nicht signifikant. Daher kann die CAMP grundsätzlich zur sicheren Anwendung bei Hunden empfohlen werden und stellt eine potenzielle Therapieoption für verschiedene Hauterkrankungen bei Hunden dar.背景 - 低音大気圧マイクロ波プラズマ (CAMP) は、皮膚の感染症や創傷の治療法として有望である。イヌにCAMPを適用した場合の皮膚の生物物理学的パラメータの変化と忍容性は不明である。 目的 -本研究は、犬の皮膚の生物物理学的パラメータ (水和性、経皮水分蒸散量(TEWL) 、表面温度) および忍容性に及ぼすCAMPのin vivo効果を評価することを目的とした。 供試動物 - 正常な皮膚を持つオーナー所有犬20頭。 材料と方法 -正常なイヌの鼠径部皮膚の異なる部位に、CAMP処理を30秒、1分、2分、4分それぞれ実施した。水和性、TEWL、表面温度はCAMP塗布の前後にそれぞれ5回、3回、3回測定した。治療後、修正メルボルン疼痛尺度及び修正短形式グラスゴー複合測定疼痛尺度 (修正CMPS-SF) を用いて、疼痛および副作用を評価した。 結果 - TEWL値は4分間の治療で有意に減少し、水和性は2分間の治療で有意に減少した。表面温度は治療時間が長くなるにつれて有意に上昇した。その他のパラメータについては、有意な変化は認められなかった。4分後の治療部位の軽度の紅斑を除けば、ほとんどの犬で有意な疼痛反応や副作用は観察されなかった。 結論と臨床的意義 - CAMP治療は忍容性が高く、犬の皮膚の生物物理学的パラメータに有意な変化を与えなかった。CAMPは安全使用のための基本的な推奨事項を満たしており、犬の様々な皮膚疾患に対する潜在的な治療オプションであると考えられる。.背景-冷大气微波等离子体(CAMP)是治疗皮肤感染和伤口的一种有前景的治疗选择。尚不清楚应用CAMP后犬的生物物理皮肤参数变化和耐受性。 目的-本研究旨在评价CAMP对犬皮肤生物物理参数[水合作用、经表皮水分流失(TEWL)和表面温度]和耐受性的体内影响。 动物-20只皮肤正常的私家犬。 材料与方法-在腹股沟区正常犬皮肤不同部位分别进行CAMP治疗30s和1、2和4 min。应用CAMP前后分别测量5次、3次和3次水化、TEWL和表面温度。治疗后采用改良墨尔本疼痛量表和改良简明格拉斯哥综合测量疼痛量表(改良CMPS-SF)评价疼痛和不良反应。 结果-治疗4 min后,TEW L值显著下降,治疗2 min后, 水合作用显著下降。随着治疗时间的增加,温度显著增加。对于其他参数,未观察到显著变化。除4 min后治疗区域出现轻度红斑外,在大多数犬中未观察到显著的疼痛反应或不良反应。 结论和临床意义-CAMP治疗耐受性良好,未显著改变犬皮肤生物物理参数。CAMP实现了安全使用的基本建议,是犬各种皮肤病的潜在治疗选择.Contexto - O plasma frio atmosférico de micro-ondas (CAMP) é uma opção terapêutica promissora para o tratamento de infecções cutâneas e feridas. Não se sabe a respeito das alterações nos parâmetros biofísicos da pele e a tolerabilidade de cães após a aplicação de CAMP. Objetivo - Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar os efeitos in vivo de CAMP nos parâmetros biofísicos da pele [hidratação, perda de água transepidérmica (TEWL) e temperatura da superfície] e a tolerabilidade em cães. Materiais e métodos - O tratamento com CAMP foi realizado por 30s e 1, 2 e 4 min, respectivamente, em diferentes locais da pele canina normal na região inguinal. Hidratação, TEWL e temperatura da superfície foram medidas cinco, três e três vezes, respectivamente, antes e após a aplicação do CAMP. Após o tratamento, a dor e os efeitos adversos foram avaliados usando uma escala de dor de Melbourne modificada e a escala de medida composta de dor de Glasgow modificada (CMPS-SF modificada). Resultados - Os valores de TEWL reduziram significativamente com o tratamento de 4 min, e a hidratação reduziu significativamente com dois minutos de tratamento. A temperatura aumentou significativamente com o aumento do tempo de tratamento. Não foram observadas alterações significativas para outros parâmetros. Não se observou uma resposta de dor significativa ou efeitos adversos na maioria dos cães, além de eritema leve na área tratada após 4 min. Conclusão e significância clínica - O tratamento com CAMP foi bem tolerado e não alterou significativamente os parâmetros biofísicos da pele canina. CAMP requer recomendações básicas de segurança na sua utilização e é uma opção terapêutica potencial para várias dermatopatias em cães.

To investigate the demographic data and karyotypes of 19,000 couples who experienced recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA).A cross-sectional study of 19,000 couples.Five hospitals.A total of 19,000 couples experiencing RSA.Not applicable.Cytogenetic analysis of blood lymphocytes.A total of 844 couples (4.44%) showed chromosomal aberrations in either partner. Females were more likely to have chromosomal aberrations. The mean age of females and males with chromosomal aberrations was younger than that of females and males without chromosomal aberrations. Interestingly, sex and age distribution varied significantly depending on the subtypes of chromosomal aberrations. We detected 324 balanced translocations, including 223 novel ones. They were distributed across all chromosomes; the frequency of balanced translocations decreased according to the numerical order of autosomes (strong negative correlation; r = -0.84). Individuals with balanced translocations were younger than other groups. All 58 inversions, including 25 novel ones, were detected in autosomes; the negative correlation also existed. Thirteen Robertsonian translocations, 5 deletions, and 3 duplications were detected. Six types of Turner variants, triple X mosaicism, and mosaic Down syndrome were detected in females; Klinefelter variants and mosaic XYY syndrome were detected in males. Marker chromosomes at various mosaic levels and 7 different complex chromosomal rearrangements were also observed.Patients who experienced RSA induced by chromosomal aberrations experienced miscarriages at a younger age. Significant correlations existed between the patients' age or sex and the subtypes of chromosomal aberrations. This study detected several chromosomal abnormalities associated with RSA, including various novel aberrations.

Because of paucity of published data, we evaluated the 2-year major clinical outcomes between early invasive (EI) and delayed invasive (DI) strategies according to the stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), who underwent a successful newer-generation drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation.A total of 8241 NSTEMI patients were recruited from the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry (KAMIR). Based on baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; ≥90, 60-89, 30-59, and30 mL/min/1.73 mAfter multivariable-adjusted and propensity score-adjusted analyses, the cumulative incidence of MACE (group A, p = 0.139 and p = 0.103, respectively; group B, p = 0.968 and p = 0.608, respectively; group C, p = 0.111 and p = 0.196, respectively; group D, p = 0.882 and p = 0.571, respectively), all-cause death, re-MI, and any repeat revascularization was similar between the EI and DI groups in the 4 different renal function groups.In the era of newer-generation DES, EI and DI strategies showed comparable major clinical outcomes in patients with NSTEMI and CKD during a 2-year follow-up period. However, to confirm these results, further randomized, large-scale, long-term follow-up studies are needed.

Background/Aims: While switching strategies of P2Y12 receptor inhibitors (RIs) have sometimes been used in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients, the current status of in-hospital P2Y12RI switching remains unknown.Methods: Overall, 8,476 AMI patients who underwent successful revascularization from Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry-National Institute of Health (KAMIR-NIH) were divided according to in-hospital P2Y12RI strategies, and net adverse cardiovascular events (NACEs), defined as a composite of cardiac death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, or thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) major bleeding during hospitalization were compared.Results: Patients with in-hospital P2Y12RI switching accounted for 16.5%, of which 867 patients were switched from clopidogrel to potent P2Y12RI (C-P) and 532 patients from potent P2Y12RI to clopidogrel (P-C). There were no differences in NACEs among the unchanged clopidogrel, the unchanged potent P2Y12RIs, and the P2Y12RI switching groups. However, compared to the unchanged clopidogrel group, the C-P group had a higher incidence of non-fatal MI, and the P-C group had a higher incidence of TIMI major bleeding. In clinical events of in-hospital P2Y12RI switching, 90.9% of non-fatal MI occurred during pre-switching clopidogrel administration, 60.7% of TIMI major bleeding was related to pre-switching P2Y12RIs, and 71.4% of TIMI major bleeding was related to potent P2Y12RIs. Only 21.6% of the P2Y12RI switching group switched to P2Y12RIs after a loading dose (LD); however, there were no differences in clinical events between patients with and without LD.Conclusions: In-hospital P2Y12RI switching occurred occasionally, but had relatively similar clinical outcomes compared to unchanged P2Y12RIs in Korean AMI patients. Non-fatal MI and bleeding appeared to be mainly related to pre-switching P2Y12RIs.

Theoretical calculations with density functional theory, semi-empirical PM5 random phase approximation and Zerner's intermediate neglect of differential overlap CI were carried out for various amino and hydroxy anthraquinones using X-ray structure data. Comparing quantum chemical calculation results based on X-ray structure, the PM5 random phase approximation method was the most promising for the prediction of λmax for anthraquinone dyes among the computational methods studied here. From the results of calculated gross population, pz, it was found that the value of pz using the time-dependent density functional theory method was greater than the values calculated by semi-empirical methods. The overestimation of pz could be attributed to the incorrect density functional theory calculation results. The results of PM5 random phase approximation-calculated oscillator strength and torsion angle showed reasonable agreement with the observed results for sterically hindered anthraquinone dyes., This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Comparison of semi-empirical and density functional approaches for the colour and constitution of anthraquinone dyes using X-ray structure, which has been published in final form at https://doi.org/10.1111/cote.12600. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Use of Self-Archived Versions. This article may not be enhanced, enriched or otherwise transformed into a derivative work, without express permission from Wiley or by statutory rights under applicable legislation. Copyright notices must not be removed, obscured or modified. The article must be linked to Wiley’s version of record on Wiley Online Library and any embedding, framing or otherwise making available the article or pages thereof by third parties from platforms, services and websites other than Wiley Online Library must be prohibited.

The seed production of small yellow croaker (SYC) is constrained by reproductive dysfunction in captive-reared females. Reproductive dysfunction is closely linked to endocrine reproductive mechanisms. To better understand the reproductive dysfunction in captive broodstock, functional characterization of gonadotropins (GtHs: follicle stimulating hormone β subunit, fshβ; luteinizing hormone β subunit, lhβ; and glycoprotein α subunit, gpα) and sex steroids (17β-estradiol, E2; testosterone, T; progesterone; P) was performed using qRT-PCR, ELISA, in vivo, and in-vitro assay. The pituitary GtHs and gonadal steroids levels were significantly higher in ripen fish of both sexes. However, changes in lhβ and E2 levels in females were not significant in the developing and ripen stages. Furthermore, GtHs and steroids levels were lower in females compared to males throughout the reproductive cycle. In vivo administration of gonadotropin releasing hormone analogue (GnRHa) significantly increased the expression of GtHs in both dose- and time-related manners. The lower and higher doses of GnRHa led to successful spawning in male and female SYC, respectively. Sex steroids in vitro significantly inhibited the expression of lhβ in female SYC. Overall, GtHs were shown to play a vital role in final gonadal maturation, while steroids promoted negative feedback in the regulation of pituitary GtHs. Lower levels of GtHs and steroids might be key components in the reproductive dysfunction of captive-reared female SYC.

Supplementary Data from Altered MicroRNA Expression in Cervical Carcinomas

Objective Human microRNA-185 (miR-185) has been reported to act as a regulator of fibrosis and angiogenesis in cancer. However, miR-185 has not been investigated in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We hypothesized that the changes in miR-185 levels in STEMI patients are related to the processes of myocardial healing and remodeling. Methods Between January 2011 and December 2013, 145 patients with STEMI (65.9±11.6 years old; 41 women) were enrolled. Initial and discharge serum samples collected from 20 patients with STEMI and mixed sera from 8 healthy controls were analyzed by a microarray. A quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analysis of miR-185 was performed in all 145 patients. The correlation between the miR-185 levels and the clinical, laboratory, angiographic, and echocardiographic parameters was analyzed. Results The microarray analysis revealed a biphasic pattern in miR-185 levels, with an initial decrease followed by an increase at discharge. The miR-185 levels at discharge were significantly correlated with the troponin-I, CK-MB, and area under the curve of CK-MB levels. There was a positive correlation between the transforming growth factor-β and miR-185 levels at discharge (ρ=0.242, p=0.026). A high wall motion score index and a low ejection fraction, as measured by echocardiography, and high B-type natriuretic peptide level at one month after STEMI were related to high miR-185 levels. Conclusion Our results showed that elevated miR-185 levels at the late stage of STEMI were related to a large amount of myocardial injury and adverse remodeling.

Biological samples collected from cohort studies are widely utilized in molecular genetic studies and are typically stored long term for future applications, such as omics analyses. The extent of sample availability is determined by proper sample handling, and it is of primary importance for successful omics studies. However, questions on whether samples in long-term storage are properly available for omics experiments has been raised, because the quality and availability of such samples remain unknown until their actual utilization. In that perspective, several guidelines for proper sample management have been suggested. In addition, several researchers assessed how improper management damages sample using mock sample and suggested a set of requirements for sample handling. In this review, we present several considerations for sample handling eligible for omics studies. Focusing on birth cohorts, we describe the types of samples collected from which omics data were generated. This review ultimately aims to provide proper guidelines for sample handling for successful human omics studies.

Multiple organ injuries in patients with post cardiac arrest syndrome (PCAS) after cardiac arrest (CA) is associated with mortality. Among multiple organ injuries after return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), renal dysfunction can lead to acute kidney injury, which is known to be associated with high mortality. This renal injury is associated with a systemic infl ammatory response syndrome mediated by ischemia reperfusion by ROSC following CA. However, the mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine, the relationship between the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a pro-infl ammatory cytokine, and renal injury in PCAS. In the present study, asphyxial CA was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats with normothermia and the survival rate was measured at two days after ROSC. The rats in each group (n=6) were sacrificed at 6 h, 12 h, 1 day, and 2 days after ROSC. Renal injury was analyzed with by Masson’s trichrome stain, TNF-α immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blot. The mortality was 72% at 12 h after ROSC and the survival rate of rats was decreased to 24% 2 days after ROSC. Histopathological score in the renal tissue after CA showed a significant increase at 6 h than sham group. The expression level of TNF-α in the renal cortex tissue was also increased at 6 h after CA based on both IHC and western blot results. After CA, the renal histopathological injury was significantly increased at 6 h after ROSC with a proportional increase of TNF-α expression in the kidney tissue leading to rapid injury to the kidney.

Carbapenems are broad-spectrum antibiotics widely used for the treatment of human infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria. However, emerging carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE) are rising as a public threat to human and animal health. We screened clinical bacterial isolates from 241 dogs and 18 cats hospitalized at Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Seoul National University, from 2018 to 2020 for carbapenemase production. In our study, 5 strains of metallo-β-lactamase NDM-5-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were isolated from 4 different dogs. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) results showed that all E. coli strains were ST410 and all K. pneumoniae strains were ST378. Whole genome analysis of the plasmid showed that blaNDM-5 is carried on a IncX3 plasmid, showing a high concordance rate with plasmids detected worldwide in human and animal isolates. The blaNDM gene was associated with the bleMBL gene and the ISAba125 element, truncated with the IS5 element. The results of this study show that CPE has already become as a threat to both animals and humans in our society, posing the necessity to solve it in terms of "One Health". Therefore, preventive strategies should be developed to prevent the spread of CPE in animal and human societies.

Environmentally hazardous substances and exposure to these can cause various diseases. Volatile organic compounds can easily evaporate into the atmosphere, thereby exerting toxic effects through either the skin or respiratory tract exposures. Toluene, a neurotoxin, has been widely used in various industries. However, it has a detrimental effect on the nervous system (such as hallucinations or memory impairment), while data on the mechanism underlaying its harmful effects remain limited. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of toluene on the nervous system via epigenetic and genetic changes of toluene-exposed individuals. We identified significant epigenetic changes and confirmed that the affected abnormally expressed genes negatively influenced the nervous system. In particular, we confirmed that the miR-15 family, upregulated by toluene, downregulated ABL2, which could affect the R as signaling pathway resulting in neuronal structural abnormalities. Our study suggests that miR-15a-5p, miR-15b-5p, miR-16-5p, miR-301a-3p, and lncRNA NEAT1 may represent effective epigenomic markers associated with neurodegenerative diseases caused by toluene.

Objectives This study aimed to examine the antioxidant activity and antiinflammatory effects of ethanol extract of Polygonum senticosum (EPS) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Methods Antioxidant activity of EPS was assessed by radical-scavenging effects on ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals. Proinflammatory markers produced by LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages were quantified to assess the antiinflammatory activity of EPS. Results Our results showed that EPS significantly increased FRAP and DPPH radical-scavenging activity. Additionally, EPS reduced LPS-induced proinflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), along with proinflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β, without significant cytotoxicity. EPS significantly downregulated the expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), TNF-α, and IL-1β in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Positive correlations were noted between FRAP and DPPH radical-scavenging activity and antiinflammatory capacity. Conclusions Our results indicate that EPS downregulates the expression of pro-inflammatory mediators such as NO, PGE2, and cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. Further research is needed for its use as a treatment for inflammation and related diseases.

Hair loss or alopecia is an unpleasant symptom that exacerbates an individual's self-esteem and requires appropriate treatment. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a central pathway that promotes dermal papilla induction and keratinocyte proliferation during hair follicle renewal. GSK-3β inactivated by its upstream Akt and ubiquitin-specific protease 47 (USP47) has been shown to inhibit β-catenin degradation. The cold atmospheric microwave plasma (CAMP) is microwave energy enriched with mixtures of radicals. CAMP has been reported to have antibacterial and antifungal activities with wound healing activity against skin infection; however, the effect of CAMP on hair loss treatment has not been reported. We aimed to investigate the effect of CAMP on promoting hair renewal in vitro and to elucidate the molecular mechanism, targeting β-catenin signaling and YAP/TAZ, the co-activators in the Hippo pathway, in human dermal papilla cells (hDPCs). We also evaluated plasma effects on the interaction between hDPCs and HaCaT keratinocytes. The hDPCs were treated with plasma-activating media (PAM) or gas-activating media (GAM). The biological outcomes were determined by MTT assay, qRT-PCR, western blot analysis, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence. We found that β-catenin signaling and YAP/TAZ were significantly increased in PAM-treated hDPCs. PAM treatment also induced β-catenin translocation and inhibited β-catenin ubiquitination by activating Akt/GSK-3β signaling and upregulating USP47 expression. In addition, hDPCs were more aggregated with keratinocytes in PAM-treated cells compared with control. HaCaT cells cultured in a conditioned medium derived from PAM-treated hDPCs exhibited an enhancing effect on activating YAP/TAZ and β-catenin signaling. These findings suggested that CAMP may be a new therapeutic alternative for alopecic treatment.

Cutaneous wound healing is a biological process that occurs upon skin injury and involves different mechanisms to repair tissue damage. Improper healing or prolonged curation period of wound lesions may induce unpleasant complications. Cold atmospheric microwave plasma (CAMP) is an upcoming medical therapeutic option for skin infection and wound treatment. However, the molecular mechanisms of CAMP-mediated canine wound healing are not well characterized. Wound-healing activity was examined to elucidate the biological effects and molecular mechanisms of CAMP. Canine keratinocytes (CPEKs) were treated using CAMP, and their wound-healing activities were evaluated. The molecular mechanisms of that effect were examined, based on RNA-Seq analysis data, and verified using immunoblotting and polymerase chain reaction. It was found that the CAMP-treated cells exhibited a significant increase in cell migration evaluated by scratch assay in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) and canine keratinocytes (CPEK). Additionally, CAMP-treated CPEK cells showed a significant positive effect on cell invasion. The RNA-Seq data revealed that CAMP alters different genes and pathways in CPEK cells. Gene expression involved in the cell cycle, cell proliferation, angiogenesis, cell adhesion, and wound healing was upregulated in CAMP-treated cells compared with gas-activated media used as a control. The Hippo pathway was also analyzed, and the protein and mRNA levels of YAP were significantly increased in CAMP-treated cells. CAMP-treated CPEK cells indicated the downregulation of E-cadherin and upregulation of vimentin, Snail, and Slug at transcription and translation levels, contributing to a favorable effect on cell migration. Our findings suggested that CAMP treatment provided beneficial effects on the curative wound process through the induction of genes involved in wound healing, promotion of EMT, and increase in the molecular targets in the Hippo signaling pathway.

Bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) is used in the treatment of degenerative spinal disease and vertebral fractures, spine fusion, dental surgery, and facial surgery. However, high doses are associated with side effects such as inflammation and osteophytes. In this study, we performed spinal fusion surgery on mini-pigs using BMP-2 and a HA/β-TCP hydrogel carrier, and evaluated the degree of fusion and osteophyte growth according to time and dosage. Increasing the dose of BMP-2 led to a significantly higher fusion rate than was observed in the control group, and there was no significant difference between the 8-week and 16-week samples. We also found that the HA + β-TCP hydrogel combination helped maintain the rate of BMP-2 release. In conclusion, the BMP-2-loaded HA/β-TCP hydrogel carrier used in this study overcame the drawback of potentially causing side effects when used at high concentrations by enabling the sustained release of BMP-2. This method is also highly efficient, since it provides mineral matter to accelerate the fusion rate of the spine and improve bone quality.

Visual Abstract, Highlights • Our study supports the feasibility of measuring thrombogenicity in patients with acute myocardial infarction, with intent to predict periprocedural and long-term clinical events, in real-world clinical practice. • Preprocedural assessment of ex vivo thrombogenicity (eg, platelet-fibrin clot strength by thromboelastography) was significantly associated with the risk of coronary microvascular dysfunction. • A combined risk stratification with coronary microvascular dysfunction and platelet-fibrin clot strength increased the prognostic implication to predict the rates of long-term clinical outcomes., Summary The association between thrombogenicity and coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) has been poorly explored in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In our real-world clinical practice (N = 116), thrombogenicity was evaluated with thromboelastography and conventional hemostatic measures, and CMD was defined as index of microcirculatory resistance of >40 U using the invasive physiologic test. High platelet-fibrin clot strength (P-FCS) (≥68 mm) significantly increased the risk of postprocedural CMD (odds ratio: 4.35; 95% CI: 1.74-10.89). Patients with both CMD and high P-FCS had a higher rate of ischemic events compared to non-CMD subjects with low P-FCS (odds ratio: 5.58; 95% CI: 1.31-23.68). This study showed a close association between heightened thrombogenicity and CMD and their prognostic implications after reperfusion in acute myocardial infarction patients.

A higher SYNTAX score (SS) is strongly associated with poor prognosis in patients with cardiogenic shock complicating ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (CS-STEMI). However, the predictive value of culprit-lesion SYNTAX score (cul-SS) and SS has not been compared although the culprit-lesion-only primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) strategy showed improved long-term survival recently. This study compared the predictive utility of cul-SS and SS for in-hospital mortality among the patients with CS-STEMI from during 2010-2019. Of the 215 patients, 79 (37%) died. SS ≥22, cul-SS ≥11, final thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow ≤2, and no-reflow phenomenon were associated with in-hospital mortality. In patients with multi-vessel disease, the nonsurvivors with cul-SS ≥11 had a higher mortality rate than the survivors (75.0% vs. 44.9%, p = 0.001), whereas the SS ≥22 showed no significant difference. The cul-SS ≥11 revealed only an independent factor in the multivariate analysis (OR 2.6, p = 0.010). the AUC of cul-SS ≥11 for in-hospital mortality was modest (0.617 p < 0.05), which might be augmented up to 0.745 (p < 0.001) by the combination with TIMI flow ≤2, no-reflow phenomenon, and blood total CO2 content

Organic material-based solar cell devices such as perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted attention as renewable energy resources with low production cost, lightweight, wearable device applications, and large-area processability. To enhance device performance, many research groups have attempted to develop new materials and structures. Metal electrode materials play an important role in solar energy conversion in PSCs, owing to the ohmic contact and contact resistance between metal negative electrodes and photoactive layers. Until recently, conventional metal sources such as Ag, Au, or Cu have been used as electrodes. In this study, PSCs were employed in various metal negative electrodes using a thermal evaporator. The authors investigated the effect of metal negative electrodes on PSCs.

The perovskite solar cell is capable of energy conversion in a wide range of wavelengths, from 300 nm to 800 nm, which includes the entire visible region and portions of the ultraviolet and infrared regions. To increase light transmittance of perovskite solar cells and reduce manufacturing cost of perovskite solar cells, soda-lime glass and transparent conducting oxides, such as indium tin oxide and fluorine-doped tin oxide are mainly used as substrates and light-transmitting electrodes, respectively. However, it is evident from the transmittance of soda-lime glass and transparent conductive oxides measured via UV-Vis spectrometry that they absorb all light near and below 310 nm. In this study, a transparent Mn-doped ZnGa2O4 film was fabricated on the incident surface of perovskite solar cells to obtain additional light energy by down-converting 300 nm UV light to 510 nm visible light. We confirmed the improvement of power efficiency by applying a ZnGa2O4:Mn down-conversion layer to perovskite solar cells.

BACKGROUND Anderson-Fabry disease (AFD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder that results from a deficiency of α-galactosidase A enzyme activity in which glycosphingolipids gradually accumulate in multi-organ systems. Cardiac manifestations are the leading cause of mortality in patients with AFD. Among them, arrhythmias comprise a large portion of the heart disease cases in AFD, most of which are characterized by conduction disorders. However, atrial fibrillation as a presenting sign at the young age group diagnosed with AFD is uncommon. CASE SUMMARY We report a case of a 26-year-old man who was admitted with chest discomfort. Left ventricular hypertrophy was fulfilled in the criteria by the Sokolow-Lyon index and atrial fibrillation on the 12 Leads-electrocardiography (ECG) that was documented in the emergency room. After spontaneously restored to normal sinus rhythm, relationships between P and R waves, including a shorter PR interval on the ECG, were revealed. The echocardiographic findings showed thickened interventricular septal and left posterior ventricular walls. Based on the clues mentioned earlier, we realized the possibility of AFD. Additionally, we noticed the associated symptoms and signs, including bilateral mild hearing loss, neuropathic pain, anhidrosis, and angiokeratoma on the trunk and hands. He was finally diagnosed with classical AFD, which was confirmed by the gene mutation and abnormal enzyme activity of α-galactosidase A. CONCLUSION This case is a rare case of AFD as a presentation with atrial fibrillation at a young age. Confirming the relationship between P and Q waves on the ECG through sinus rhythm conversion may help in differential diagnosis of the cause of atrial fibrillation and hypertrophic myocardium.

To reduce the manufacturing cost of perovskite solar cells, soda-lime glass and transparent conducting oxides such as indium tin oxide and fluorine-doped tin oxide are the most widely used substrates and lighttransmitting electrodes. However, the transmittance spectra of soda-lime glass, indium tin oxide, and fluorinedoped tin oxide show that all light near and below 330 nm is absorbed; thus, with the use of these substrates, light energy near and below 330 nm cannot reach the perovskite light-absorbing layer. It is expected that the overall solar cell can be improved if the wavelength can be adjusted to reach the perovskite solar cell absorbing layer through down-conversion of energy in the optical wavelength band. In this study, a polyvinylidene fluoride transparent film mixed with a ZnGa2O4:Mn phosphor was applied to the incident side of the perovskite solar cell with the intent to increase the light conversion efficiency without changing the internal bandgap energy and structure. By adding a phosphor layer to the external surface of PSC exposed to incident light, the efficiency of the cell was increased by the down-conversion of ultraviolet light (290 nm) to the visible region (509 nm) while maintaining the transmittance. To manufacture the perovskite solar cell, a TiO2-based mesoporous electron transport layer was spin-coated onto the substrate. The perovskite layer used in this experiment was CH3NH3PbI3 and was fabricated on a TiO2 layer. Spiro-OMeTAD solution was spin-coated as a hole-transport layer.

This study aimed to investigate the melanogenesis inhibitory activity of epicatechin-3-O-gallate (ECG) isolated from Polygonum amphibium L. ECG was isolated from the ethanol extract of P. amphibium L, and its chemical structure was determined using spectroscopic methods such as LC-ESI-MS, 1D-NMR, and UV spectroscopy. ECG inhibited the melanogenesis of B16F10 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Particularly, it decreased the melanin content by 27.4% at 200 μM concentration, compared with the control, in B16F10 cells, without causing cytotoxicity. It is noteworthy that the expression of three key proteins, including tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP-1), TRP-2, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), involved in melanogenesis, is significantly inhibited by ECG. The ECG isolated in this study caused the inhibition of body pigmentation and tyrosinase activity in vivo in the zebrafish model. These results suggest that the ECG isolated from P. amphibium L. is an effective anti-melanogenesis agent.

Whole blood is one of the most widely utilized human samples in biological research and is useful for analyzing the mechanisms of diverse bio-molecular phenomena. However, owing to its fluidic properties, whole blood is relatively unstable in the frozen state compared to other samples. Because RNA is structurally unstable, sample damage can severely affect RNA quality, thereby reducing its usability. This study aimed to assess the quality of RNA which was prepared from blood stored at different temperatures and times prior to freezing, as well as the effect of long-term freezing. The quality of the RNA derived from different blood samples was assessed by measuring the RNA integrity number (RIN) and RNA sequencing to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs, |fold-change (FC)|> 1.5, p

The power conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells, which are next-generation photovoltaic cells, has rapidly increased up to 20% through ongoing research and development. Recently, various methods have been employed to increase the active area of the mesoporous layer in perovskite solar cells. In this study, the particle aggregation of the TiO2 was controlled by adding Ti-diisopropoxide bis to the mesoporous layer solution; thus, the contact area between the mesoporous layer and perovskite layer was increased. The amount of Ti-diisopropoxide bis added to the mesoporous layer solution was adjusted to prevent the inhibition of electron transport caused by separation of particles and instability of mesoporous layer. To evaluate the changes in the characteristics of the perovskite solar cells due to the TiO2 particle aggregation in the mesoporous layer, X-ray diffraction and spectrophotometric absorbance, as well as cross-sectional and surface scanning electron microscopy measurement were performed, and the current density–voltage curve, power conversion efficiency and other properties were evaluated under solar simulator. It was found that the mesoporous layer was improved due to its enlarged contact area, and hence, can be expected to improve the efficiency of perovskite solar cells.

Fish reproduction is regulated by the brain-pituitary-gonad (BPG) axis where the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) plays a central role. Seed production of small yellow croaker (

To establish a safety culture in the Army, this study aims to establish a combat preparation safety group and establish a new position of safety management officer in all units through job analysis to establish their responsibilities and tasks. Therefore, Among the job analysis techniques, this study derived the responsibilities and tasks of the safety management officer using DACUM, and verified the validity and reliability of the tasks derived from the survey. The findings of the analysis were as follows. First, four responsibilities and 81 tasks for the military safety management officer were derived. Second, the analysis of the importance of the duties and tasks of the safety management officer showed that the establishment and implementation of safety policies and safety education, unit safety diagnosis activities, support of subordinate units, and tasks within the responsibilities were important. This study is meaningful in that it has clearly identified the work of the military safety management officer by deriving the core tasks of the military safety management officer on the wartime/peacetime.

Background/Aim: Antimicrobial resistance significantly affects the cure rate of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication. We evaluated the risk factor of failure in ultimate H. pylori eradication and assessed the efficacy of current regimens to overcome antibiotic resistance. Methods: Patients with H. pylori infection were prospectively enrolled in a single center. They were classified into 3 groups according to the previous history of H. pylori eradication, and antibiotic susceptibility was evaluated by culture and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). Results: Ninety-seven patients were successfully cultured for H. pylori and 81 (83.5%), 7 (7.2%), and 9 (9.3%) were classified into primary resistance, 1st eradication failure, and 2nd or more eradication failure groups; the resistance to clarithromycin (CLA), metronidazole (MET), and levofloxacin increased in the 1st eradication failure (85.7, 57.1, and 42.9%) and 2nd or more eradication failure (88.9, 88.9, and 55.6%) groups. The prevalence of MDR was 21.0% (17/81), 57.1% (4/7), and 88.9% (8/9) in the primary, 1st eradication failure, and 2nd or more eradication failure groups, respectively. In multivariate analysis, dual CLA/MET resistance (CLA/MET-R) (OR = 31.432, 95% CI: 3.094–319.266, p = 0.004) was an independent risk factor for ultimate H. pylori eradication failure. In patients with dual CLA/MET-R, the eradication ratio of concomitant therapy was 57.1% (4/7), whereas that of bismuth-containing quadruple therapy was 27.3% (3/11) (p = 0.350). Conclusions: Dual CLA/MET-R was the main cause of failure in ultimate H. pylori eradication, and 7-day bismuth quadruple or concomitant regimen would not be suitable for H. pylori eradication in the dual CLA/MET-R group.

Palliative care should be an integral component of comprehensive ICU care for all critically ill patients.We aimed to study and describe the impact of an ICU-Palliative Care Collaboration using a I...

The properties of a cemented carbide tool substrate and diamond coating were studied for the precision drilling of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The microstructures and mechanical properties of WC–6 wt.% Co substrates using different WC particle sizes were examined to determine correlations between the mechanical properties and the drilling performance. The results demonstrated that WC powders with an average particle size of 2.3 μm were suitable drill substrates. Coatings of either microcrystalline diamond (MCD) or gradient nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) were deposited using hot-filament chemical vapor deposition. A drilling test using T700-grade CFRP was conducted to evaluate the drilling performance, tool wear resistance, and CFRP hole quality achieved based on the diamond coating morphology. In the CFRP drilling tests, the diamond-coated drills showed superior tool lifetimes four times longer than that of the uncoated drill. The MCD-coated drill exhibited good wear resistance compared to the gradient NCD-coated drill; however, the gradient NCD-coated drill demonstrated better machining quality in terms of the delamination factor, surface roughness inside the machined hole, and accuracy of the machining dimensions. In this study, we aimed to develop the optimal tool substrate for the drilling of general-purpose CFRP and proposed directions for the development of diamond coatings to maximize drilling performance.