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Abstract Claudin 18.2 has emerged as a viable therapeutic target in gastric cancer (GC), but little is known about the heterogeneity of its expression in GC. This study investigated the heterogeneity of claudin 18.2 expression in 166 patients with metastatic GC whose surgical or paired primary–metastatic specimens were available. The prevalence of claudin 18.2 positivity (moderate-to-strong expression in ≥ 75% by the 43-14A clone) was 47.0%. Claudin 18.2-positive tumors exhibited more frequent peritoneal metastasis and a lower incidence of hepatic and distant lymph node involvement. Survival outcomes were comparable between patients with claudin 18.2-positive and -negative tumors. Intratumoral heterogeneity was noted in 38.5% of surgical specimens. Paired primary-metastatic site analysis revealed that 25.2% of patients had discordant results for claudin 18.2 positivity. Across different metastatic organ categories, peritoneal lesions showed the highest positivity rate (44.3%) and positive concordance rate (31.4%), whereas liver lesions had the lowest positivity rate (17.9%) and concordance rate (12.8%). In conclusion, claudin 18.2 expression exhibits intratumoral and intrapatient spatial heterogeneity in metastatic GC. Claudin 18.2 positivity is associated with more frequent peritoneal metastasis, and peritoneal lesions are more likely to have positively concordant claudin 18.2 results with the primary site than other metastatic sites.

Abstract In this study, we investigated the characteristics of gut microbiome in the metabolically healthy obese (MHO) patients, and how they correlate with metabolic and inflammatory profiles. A total of 120 obese people without metabolic comorbidities were recruited, and their clinical phenotypes, metabolic and inflammatory parameters were analysed. The faecal microbial markers originating from bacterial cell and extracellular vesicle (EV) were profiled using 16S rDNA sequencing. The total study population could be classified into two distinct enterotypes (enterotype I: Prevotellaceae-predominant, enterotype II: Akkermansia/Bacteroides-predominant), based on their stool EV-derived microbiome profile. When comparing the metabolic and inflammatory profiles, subjects in enterotype I had higher levels of serum IL-1β [false discovery rate (FDR) q = 0.050] and had a lower level of microbial diversity than enterotype II (Wilcoxon rank-sum test p

Abstract Sepsis is a life-threatening disease, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate the association between low muscle mass and the prognosis of patients with biliary sepsis, focusing on outcomes such as length of hospital stay (LOS), intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and in-hospital mortality. This retrospective, single-center, observational study included adult patients with biliary sepsis who visited the emergency department between January 2016 and December 2021. Low muscle mass was assessed using the psoas muscle index (PMI). Using computed tomography imaging, the area of both sides of the psoas muscle at the L3 level was measured, and the PMI, corrected by the patient’s height was calculated. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, and the secondary outcomes were intensive care unit (ICU) admission, LOS, and 14-day mortality. A total of 745 patients were included in this study. Low muscle mass was defined as a PMI

Abstract Claudin 18.2 has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in gastric cancer based on phase 3 studies. However, clinicopathologic features associated with claudin 18.2 overexpression have not been comprehensively studied specifically for patients with resectable gastric cancer. This retrospective study included 299 patients with stage I–III resectable gastric cancer who underwent curative surgical resection. Possible associations between claudin 18.2 overexpression (moderate-to-strong expression in ≥ 75% by the 43-14A clone) and clinicopathologic features and survival outcomes were analyzed. There were 90 (30.1%), 96 (32.1%), and 113 (37.8%) patients with stage I, II, and III disease, respectively. Claudin 18.2 overexpression was noted in 139 out of 299 patients (46.5%). Claudin 18.2 overexpression was associated with a younger age, a lower invasion depth limited to the mucosa/submucosa, and less frequent lymphovascular invasion. Claudin 18.2 overexpression was also associated with Borrmann type 4 among patients with advanced gastric cancer and the diffuse histological type. Claudin 18.2 overexpression was not an independent factor for survival outcomes. In conclusion, claudin 18.2 was overexpressed in almost half of resectable gastric cancer patients. Claudin 18.2 overexpression was associated with some clinicopathological characteristics, but was not an independent prognostic factor in a localized setting.

Abstract Atmospheric particulate matter (PM) is a complex mixture of hazardous particles containing hundreds of inorganic and organic species. Organic components, such as carbon black (CB) and benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), are known to exhibit diverse genotoxic and carcinogenic effects. The toxicity of CB and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons has been well studied, however the combined toxicity is much less understood. A spray-drying system was used to control the size and chemical composition of PMs. PMs were prepared by loading BaP on three different sized CBs (0.1 μm, 2.5 μm, and 10 μm) to obtain BaP-unloaded CB (CB0.1, CB2.5, and CB10) and BaP-loaded CB (CB0.1–BaP, CB2.5–BaP, and CB10–BaP). We analyzed cell viability, levels of oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory cytokines using human lung cells (A549 epithelial cells). Cell viability decreased when exposed to all PMs (PM0.1, PM2.5, and PM10), regardless of the presence of BaP. The increase in PM size due to BaP-adsorption to CB resulted in insufficient toxic effects on human lung cells compared to CB alone. Smaller CBs reduced cell viability, leading to reactive oxygen species formation, which can cause damage to cellular structures deliver more harmful substances. Additionally, small CBs were predominant in inducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in A549 epithelial cells. These results indicate that the size of CB is a key factor that immediately affects the inflammation of lung cells, compared to the presence of BaP.

Abstract The concentration of guest elements (dopants) into host materials play an important role in changing their intrinsic electrical and optical properties. The existence of hetero-element induce defect in crystal structure, affecting conductivity. In the current work, we report Cu2+ ion into hematite in the defectronics point of view and their photoelectrochemical properties. Crystal distortion in the structure of hematite is observed as the amount of dopant increases. Among 1, 3 and 5 mol% of Cu2+ doped hematite, the existence of 1 mol% of Cu2+ ion into hematite crystal structure produce photocurrent value of 0.15 mA/cm2, IPCE value of ~ 4.7% and EIS value of ~ 2000 Ω/cm2 as best performances. However, further increasing dopants increases the number of interstitial defects, which cause the deformation of intrinsic lattice structure.

Abstract The two-dimensional (2D) assembly of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in a confined geometry is a rare phenomenon that has not been experimentally verified for complex systems. In this study, this process was investigated in detail using two types of block copolymers with hydrophobic and hydrophilic blocks and a series of AuNPs of three different sizes protected by hydrophobic ligands. In aqueous solutions, the selected block copolymers self-assembled into vesicular nanostructures with a hydrophobic domain in the wall, which functions as a confined geometrical space for hydrophobic AuNPs (i.e., it exerts a confinement effect and restricts the movement of AuNPs). Small-angle X-ray scattering studies revealed that AuNPs of different sizes assembled differently in the same confined geometry of the vesicular wall. In addition, optimal conditions for the formation of a regular NP array in the hydrophobic domain were determined. The AuNPs successfully self-assembled into a regular 2D lattice structure, forming a shell around the vesicle, when their size matched the thickness of the hydrophobic domain of the vesicular nanostructure. This study provides guidelines for the fabrication of nanoparticle arrays with controlled structures, which could enhance the functionality of materials and their physical properties.

Abstract To assess the utility of machine learning (ML) algorithms in predicting clinically relevant atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs), which can be recorded by a pacemaker. We aimed to develop ML-based models to predict clinically relevant AHREs based on the clinical parameters of patients with implanted pacemakers in comparison to logistic regression (LR). We included 721 patients without known atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter from a prospective multicenter (11 tertiary hospitals) registry comprising all geographical regions of Korea from September 2017 to July 2020. Predictive models of clinically relevant AHREs were developed using the random forest (RF) algorithm, support vector machine (SVM) algorithm, and extreme gradient boosting (XGB) algorithm. Model prediction training was conducted by seven hospitals, and model performance was evaluated using data from four hospitals. During a median follow-up of 18 months, clinically relevant AHREs were noted in 104 patients (14.4%). The three ML-based models improved the discrimination of the AHREs (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: RF: 0.742, SVM: 0.675, and XGB: 0.745 vs. LR: 0.669). The XGB model had a greater resolution in the Brier score (RF: 0.008, SVM: 0.008, and XGB: 0.021 vs. LR: 0.013) than the other models. The use of the ML-based models in patient classification was associated with improved prediction of clinically relevant AHREs after pacemaker implantation.

Abstract We aimed to develop a prediction MammaPrint (MMP) genomic risk assessment nomogram model for hormone-receptor positive (HR+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 negative (HER2–) breast cancer and minimal axillary burden (N0-1) tumors using clinicopathological factors of patients who underwent an MMP test for decision making regarding adjuvant chemotherapy. A total of 409 T1-3 N0-1 M0 HR + and HER2– breast cancer patients whose MMP genomic risk results and clinicopathological factors were available from 2017 to 2020 were analyzed. With randomly selected 306 patients, we developed a nomogram for predicting a low-risk subgroup of MMP results and externally validated with remaining patients (n = 103). Multivariate analysis revealed that the age at diagnosis, progesterone receptor (PR) score, nuclear grade, and Ki-67 were significantly associated with MMP risk results. We developed an MMP low-risk predictive nomogram. With a cut off value at 5% and 95% probability of low-risk MMP, the nomogram accurately predicted the results with 100% positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value respectively. When applied to cut-off value at 35%, the specificity and PPV was 95% and 86% respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77 to 0.87). When applied to the validation group, the nomogram was accurate with an area under the curve of 0.77 (95% CI 0.68 to 0.86). Our nomogram, which incorporates four traditional prognostic factors, i.e., age, PR, nuclear grade, and Ki-67, could predict the probability of obtaining a low MMP risk in a cohort of high clinical risk patients. This nomogram can aid the prompt selection of patients who does not need additional MMP testing.

Abstract Syntheses of Nd2Fe14B magnetic powder by conventional method is a complicated multi-step process, which produces harmful pollutants and consumes a huge amount of energy and resources. Herein we report a simple chemical route for the preparation of (Nd–Pr)2Fe14B magnetic powder using monazite concentrate as a precursor. Th, U, Sm, and La impurities were removed from monazite leachate by roasting, solvent extraction and leaching the concentrate. Purified leachate consisting of Nd and Pr Chlorides was added to the FeCl3 solution, and the solution produced was co-precipitated with NaOH. RE and Fe hydroxide precipitates were converted to the oxides by annealing at 700 °C. Boric acid and CaH2 were added in the RE and Fe oxides produced, and this mixture was reduced and diffused to (Nd–Pr)2Fe14B. Magnetic properties of the (Nd–Pr)2Fe14B produced were enhanced by introducing antiferromagnetic coupling, induced by Dy addition and efficient removal of CaO byproduct through ball milling in ethanol which increased the BHmax from 3.9 to 11.45 MGOe. Process reported is energy efficient, environment-friendly, time saving and low-cost.

Abstract Gasoline direct injection (GDI) engines emit less carbon dioxide (CO2) than port fuel injection (PFI) engines when fossil fuel conditions are the same. However, GDI engines emit more ultrafine particulate matter, which can have negative health effects, leading to particulate emission regulations. To satisfy these regulations, various studies have been done to reduce particulate matter, and several studies focused on lubricants. This study focuses on the influence of lubricant on the formation of particulate matter and its effect on particulate emissions in GDI engines. An instrumented, combustion and optical singe-cylinder GDI engine fueled by four different lubricant-gasoline blends was used with various injection conditions. Combustion experiments were used to determine combustion characteristics, and gaseous emissions indicated that the lubricant did not influence mixture homogeneity but had an impact on unburned fuels. Optical experiments showed that the lubricant did not influence spray but did influence wall film formation during the injection period, which is a major factor affecting particulate matter generation. Particulate emissions indicated that lubricant included in the wall film significantly affected PN emissions depending on injection conditions. Additionally, the wall film influenced by the lubricant affected the overall particle size and its distribution.

Abstract We sought to evaluate the clinical implication of LAE based on left atrial anterior–posterior (LA AP) dimension or LA volume index (LAVI) in Korean patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). We enrolled 8159 AF patients from the CODE-AF registry. The primary outcome was rate of stroke or systemic embolism (SSE). The prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe LAE by LA AP dimension was 30.6%, 18.5%, and 21.4%, and by LAVI (available in 5808 patients) was 15.7%, 12.5% and 37.8%, respectively. Compared with no or mild LAE, patients with significant LAE (moderate to severe LAE, n = 3258, 39.9%) were associated with a higher rate of SSE (2.5% vs. 1.4%, P = 0.001). Multivariable analysis suggested presence of significant LAE by LA AP dimension was associated with a higher risk of SSE in the overall population (HR 1.57, 95% CI: 1.14–2.17, P = 0.005) and in patients using anticoagulants (n = 5836, HR 1.79, 95% CI: 1.23–2.63, P = 0.002). Patients with significant LAE by LAVI were also at higher risk of SSE (HR 1.58, 95% CI: 1.09–2.29, P = 0.017). In conclusion, significant LAE by LA dimension or LAVI was present in 39.9% and 50.2% of AF patients, respectively, and was associated with a higher rate of SSE.

Abstract A free-standing catalyst electrode for the urea oxidation reaction (UOR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in a urea electrolysis cell was synthesized by electroplating a Ni–Fe alloy onto carbon felt, followed by phosphidation (P-NiFe@CF). The prepared P-NiFe@CF catalyst consisted of Ni5P4, NiP2, and FeP with 3D flower-like P-NiFe architecture on CF. P-NiFe@CF exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity for the UOR (demanding only 1.39 V (vs. RHE) to achieve 200 mA cm−2), and for the HER with a low overpotential of 0.023 V (vs. RHE) at 10 mA cm−2, indicating its feasibility as a bifunctional catalyst electrode for urea electrolysis. A urea electrolysis cell with P-NiFe@CF as both the free-standing anode and cathode generated a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a cell potential of 1.37 V (vs. RHE), which is considerably lower than that of water electrolysis, and also lower than previously reported values. The results indicate that the P-NiFe@CF catalyst electrodes can be used as free-standing bifunctional electrodes for urea electrolyzers.

Abstract Complete recycling of Nd2Fe14B sludge by chemical methods has gained significance in recent years, however, it is not easy to recycle highly contaminant sludge and obtain product with good magnetic properties. Herein we report a simple four-step process to recycle the Nd2Fe14B sludge containing ~ 10% of contaminants. Sludge was leached in H2SO4 and selectively co-precipitated in two steps. In the first co-precipitation, Al3+ and Cu2+ were removed at pH 6. Thereafter, in the second co-precipitation Fe2+ and RE3+ sulfates were converted to the Fe and RE hydroxides. By annealing at 800 °C RE and Fe hydroxides precipitates were converted to the oxides and residual carbon was oxidized to CO2. After the addition of boric acid, Fe and RE oxides were reduced and diffused to the (Nd-RE)2Fe14B by calciothermic reduction diffusion. Removal of CaO by washing with D.I. water in glove box reduced the oxygen content (~ 0.7%), improved crystallinity and enhanced the magnetic properties significantly. Coercivity increased more than three times (from 242.71 to 800.55 kA/m) and Mr value was also enhanced up to more than 20% (from 0.481 to 0.605 T). In this green process Na2SO4 and Ca(OH)2 were produced as by-product those are non-hazardous and were removed conveniently.

Abstract Long working hours have been presumed to negatively influence health. However, evidence is lacking regarding any associations of working hours with depressive mood or suicidal ideation. We investigated the relationships of working hours with depressive mood and suicidal ideation in a representative sample of the Korean general population. We analyzed data collected by the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys VI and VII (2013–2018). Depressive mood and suicidal ideation were identified through self-reporting. We divided participants into four groups according to weekly working hours: 30–40, 41–50, 51–60, and > 60 h/week. Sampling weights were applied to obtain estimates for the general Korean population. We analyzed 14,625 participants, of whom 5383 (36.8%), 4656 (31.8%), 2553 (17.5%), and 2033 (13.9%) worked 30–40, 41–50, 51–60, and > 60 h/week, respectively. In these groups, 3.6%, 4.4%, 5.2%, and 6.3% of the participants reported depressive mood, while 1.8%, 1.9%, 2.2%, and 3.6% reported suicidal ideation. In multiple regression analyses, compared with the 30–40 h/week group, the adjusted odds ratios of the 41–50, 51–60, and > 60 h/week groups for depressive mood were 1.35 (1.08–1.69), 1.5 (1.14–1.97), and 1.6 (1.19–2.14). A similar trend was evident for suicidal ideation (odds ratios 1.16 [0.82–1.63], 1.48 [0.99–2.21], and 2.29 [1.53–3.42]). Long working hours are significantly associated with depressive mood and suicidal ideation.

Abstract Copeptin levels reflect arginine vasopressin (AVP) release from the hypothalamus. Pituitary surgery often impairs AVP release and results in central diabetes insipidus (CDI). Here, we aimed to investigate how serum copeptin level changes 3 months after pituitary surgery and whether it has a diagnostic value for postoperative permanent CDI. Consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery at a single tertiary hospital were recruited. Serum copeptin levels were measured preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. Among 88 patients, transient and permanent CDI occurred in 17 (19.3%) and 23 (26.1%), respectively. Three-month postoperative copeptin levels significantly declined from preoperative levels in permanent CDI group (P

Abstract The study evaluated the efficacy of ID-JPL934, a probiotic preparation containing Lactobacillus johnsonii IDCC 9203, Lactobacillus plantarum IDCC 3501 and Bifidobacterium lactis IDCC 4301, in relieving lower gastrointestinal symptoms. A total of 112 subjects with lower gastrointestinal symptoms were consecutively enrolled. They were randomized into either ID-JPL934 administration group or placebo group. Bristol stool form, stool frequency, and abnormal bowel movement symptoms were recorded at baseline and week 2, 6, and 8. Primary endpoint was improvement in overall symptoms at week 8. Fecal samples were collected to measure the probiotic levels in feces using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and to perform metagenomic analysis of microbiome originating from bacteria-derived extracellular vesicles and bacterial cells via 16S rDNA sequencing. Of the 112 subjects, 104 (54 in ID-JPL934 group and 50 in placebo group) completed the entire study protocol. A higher relief of overall symptoms was found in ID-JPL934 group than in placebo group (p = 0.016). Among lower gastrointestinal symptoms, abdominal pain and bloating scores were more decreased in ID-JPL934 group than in placebo group (p

Abstract Dexmedetomidine has emerged as a promising organ protective agent. We performed prospective randomized placebo-controlled trial investigating effects of perioperative dexmedetomidine infusion on pulmonary function following thoracic aortic surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and moderate hypothermic circulatory arrest. Fifty-two patients were randomized to two groups: the dexmedetomidine group received 1 µg/kg of dexmedetomidine over 20 min after induction of anesthesia, followed by 0.5 µg/kg/h infusion until 12 h after aortic cross clamp (ACC)-off, while the control group received the same volume of normal saline. The primary endpoints were oxygenation indices including arterial O2 partial pressure (PaO2) to alveolar O2 partial pressure ratio (a/A ratio), (A–a) O2 gradient, PaO2/FiO2 and lung mechanics including peak inspiratory and plateau pressures and compliances, which were assessed after anesthesia induction, 1 h, 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h after ACC-off. The secondary endpoints were serum biomarkers including interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde (MDA). As a result, dexmedetomidine did not confer protective effects on the lungs, but inhibited elevation of serum MDA level, indicative of anti-oxidative stress property, and improved urine output and lower requirements of vasopressors.

Abstract SmCo5 and SmCo5−xCux magnetic particles were produced by co-precipitation followed by reduction diffusion. HRTEM confirmed the Cu substitution in the SmCo5 lattice. Non-magnetic Cu was substituted at “2c” site in the SmCo5 crystal lattice and effectively stopped the coupling in its surroundings. This decoupling effect decreased magnetic moment from SmCo5 (12.86 μB) to SmCo4Cu (10.58 μB) and SmCo3Cu2 (7.79 μB) and enhanced anisotropy energy from SmCo5 (10.87 Mega erg/cm3) to SmCo4Cu (14.05 Mega erg/cm3) and SmCo3Cu2 (14.78 Mega erg/cm3). Enhancement of the anisotropy energy increased the coercivity as its values for SmCo5, SmCo4Cu and SmCo3Cu2 were recorded as 4.5, 5.97 and 6.99 kOe respectively. Being six times cheaper as compared to Co, substituted Cu reduced the price of SmCo3Cu2 up to 2%. Extra 15% Co was added which not only enhanced the Mr value but also reduced the 5% of the total cost because of additional weight added to the SmCo3Cu2. Method reported in this work is most energy efficient method on the synthesis of Sm–Co–Cu ternary alloys until now.

Abstract Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology detects specific mutations that can provide treatment opportunities for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. We included 145 CRC patients who underwent surgery. We analyzed the mutation frequencies of common actionable genes and their association with clinicopathological characteristics and oncologic outcomes using targeted NGS. Approximately 97.9% (142) of patients showed somatic mutations. Frequent mutations were observed in TP53 (70%), APC (60%), and KRAS (49%). TP53 mutations were significantly linked to higher overall stage (p = 0.038) and lower disease-free survival (DFS) (p = 0.039). ATM mutation was significantly associated with higher tumor stage (p = 0.012) and shorter overall survival (OS) (p = 0.041). Stage 3 and 4 patients with ATM mutations (p = 0.023) had shorter OS, and FBXW7 mutation was significantly associated with shorter DFS (p = 0.002). However, the OS of patients with or without TP53, RAS, APC, PIK3CA, and SMAD4 mutations did not differ significantly (p = 0.59, 0.72, 0.059, 0.25, and 0.12, respectively). Similarly, the DFS between patients with RAS, APC, PIK3CA, and SMAD4 mutations and those with wild-type were not statistically different (p = 0.3, 0.79, 0.13, and 0.59, respectively). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, ATM mutation was an independent biomarker for poor prognosis of OS (p = 0.043). A comprehensive analysis of the molecular markers for CRC can provide insights into the mechanisms underlying disease progression and help optimize a personalized therapy.

Abstract Nd2Fe14B and Nd2−xDyxFe14B (x = 0.25, 0.50) particles were prepared by the modified co-precipitation followed by reduction–diffusion process. Bright field scanning transmission electron microscope (BF-STEM) image revealed the formation of Nd–Fe–B trigonal prisms in [− 101] viewing zone axis, confirming the formation of Nd2Fe14B/Nd2−xDyxFe14B. Accurate site for the Dy substitution in Nd2Fe14B crystal structure was determined as “f” site by using high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscope (HAADF-STEM). It was found that all the “g” sites are occupied by the Nd, meanwhile Dy occupied only the “f” site. Anti-ferromagnetic coupling at “f” site decreased the magnetic moment values for Nd1.75Dy0.25Fe14B (23.48 μB) and Nd1.5Dy0.5Fe14B (21.03 μB) as compared to Nd2Fe14B (25.50 μB). Reduction of magnetic moment increased the squareness ratio, coercivity and energy product. Analysis of magnetic anisotropy at constant magnetic field confirmed that “f” site substitution did not change the patterns of the anisotropy. Furthermore, magnetic moment of Nd2Fe14B, Nd2−xDyxFe14B, Nd (“f” site), Nd (“g” site) and Dy (“f” site) was recorded for all angles between 0° and 180°.

Abstract A novel deep-learning algorithm for artificial neural networks (ANNs), completely different from the back-propagation method, was developed in a previous study. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of using the algorithm for the detection of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) and the classification of its subtypes, without employing the convolutional neural network (CNN). For the detection of ICH with the summation of all the computed tomography (CT) images for each case, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.859, and the sensitivity and the specificity were 78.0% and 80.0%, respectively. Regarding ICH localisation, CT images were divided into 10 subdivisions based on the intracranial height. With the subdivision of 41–50%, the best diagnostic performance for detecting ICH was obtained with AUC of 0.903, the sensitivity of 82.5%, and the specificity of 84.1%. For the classification of the ICH to subtypes, the accuracy rate for subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) was considerably excellent at 91.7%. This study revealed that our approach can greatly reduce the ICH diagnosis time in an actual emergency situation with a fairly good diagnostic performance.

Abstract Bacillus genus produces several secondary metabolites with biocontrol ability against various phytopathogens. Bacillus velezensis AK-0 (AK-0), an antagonistic strain isolated from Korean ginseng rhizospheric soil, was found to exhibit antagonistic activity against several phytopathogens. To further display the genetic mechanism of the biocontrol traits of AK-0, we report the complete genome sequence of AK-0 and compared it with complete genome sequences of closely related strains. We report the biocontrol activity of AK-0 against apple bitter rot caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, which could lead to commercialization of this strain as a microbial biopesticide in Korea. To retain its biocontrol efficacy for a longer period, AK-0 has been formulated with ingredients for commercialization, named AK-0 product formulation (AK-0PF). AK-0PF played a role in the suppression of the mycelial growth of the fungicide-resistant pathogen C. gloeosporioides YCHH4 at a greater level than the non-treated control. Moreover, AK-0PF exhibited greater disease suppression of bitter rot in matured under field conditions. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of the AK-0 strain, which has a 3,969,429 bp circular chromosome with 3808 genes and a G+C content of 46.5%. The genome sequence of AK-0 provides a greater understanding of the Bacillus species, which displays biocontrol activity via secondary metabolites. The genome has eight potential secondary metabolite biosynthetic clusters, among which, ituD and bacD genes were expressed at a greater level than other genes. This work provides a better understanding of the strain AK-0, as an effective biocontrol agent (BCA) against phytopathogens, including bitter rot in apple.

Abstract Influenza viruses are a serious threat to human health, causing numerous deaths and pandemics worldwide. To date, neuraminidase (NA) inhibitors have primarily been used to treat influenza. However, there is a growing need for novel NA inhibitors owing to the emergence of resistant viruses. Geranii Herba (Geranium thunbergii Siebold et Zuccarini), which is edible, has long been used in a variety of disease treatments in Asia. Although recent studies have reported its various pharmacological activities, the effect of Geranii Herba and its components on influenza viruses has not yet been reported. In this study, Geranii Herba ethanol extract (GHE) and its component geraniin showed high antiviral activity against influenza A strain as well as influenza B strain, against which oseltamivir has less efficacy than influenza A strain, by inhibiting NA activity following viral infection in Madin–Darby canine kidney cells. Thus, GHE and its components may be useful for the development of anti-influenza drugs.

Abstract Alcohol increases the risk of both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and colorectal neoplasia. In this hospital-based case-control and retrospective cohort study, we sought to determine whether development of colorectal neoplasia increases the risk of HCC in patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD). In the phase I case-control analysis, the association between history of colorectal cancer (CRC) and HCC development was assessed in patients with ALD by logistic regression modeling (n = 1,659). In the phase II retrospective cohort analysis, the relative risk of HCC development was compared in ALD patients with respect to the history of CRC by a Cox model (n = 1,184). The history of CRC was significantly associated with HCC in the case-control analysis (adjusted odds ratio, 1.82; 95% CI, 1.06–3.15; P

The SUVmax is a measure of FDG uptake and is related with tumor aggressiveness in thyroid cancer, however, its association with molecular pathways is unclear. Here, we investigated the relationship between SUVmax and gene expression profiles in 80 papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) patients. We conducted an analysis of DEGs and enriched pathways in relation to SUVmax and tumor size. SUVmax showed a positive correlation with tumor size and correlated with glucose metabolic process. The genes that indicate thyroid differentiation, such as SLC5A5 and TPO, were negatively correlated with SUVmax. Unsupervised analysis revealed that SUVmax positively correlated with DNA replication(r = 0.29, p = 0.009), pyrimidine metabolism(r = 0.50, p

Abstract Tinnitus is related to serious comorbidities such as suicidal ideation and attempts. Body mass index (BMI) is associated with auditory symptoms including hearing loss. The aim of this nationwide, population-based, cross-sectional study was to evaluate the relationship between mental health, body mass index and tinnitus in a Korean premenopausal female population. This study analyzed data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys in 2010–2012. Data were collected from 4628 19 years or older, premenopausal women. After adjustments, underweight premenopausal women exhibited a higher odds ratio for tinnitus (odd ratio = 1.54; 95% confidence interval = 1.14–2.08) compared with women of normal weight. Moderate and severe tinnitus was highly prevalent in underweight as well as extremely obese women. The prevalence of perceived stress, melancholy, and suicide ideation was significantly higher in women with tinnitus. The prevalence of perceived stress and suicide ideation was significantly higher in underweight women with tinnitus, but that of melancholy was significantly lower. This study demonstrated that underweight premenopausal Korean women had a higher risk of tinnitus, which has grown in importance as a public health issue. Women with tinnitus experience perceived stress and suicide ideation more frequently, but melancholy less frequently than women without.

Abstract In the present study, a dual-functional smart film combining the effects of wavelength conversion and amplification of the converted wave by the localized surface plasmon resonance has been investigated for a perovskite solar cell. This dual-functional film, composed of Au nanoparticles coated on the surface of Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphor (Au@Y2O3:Eu3+) nanoparticle monolayer, enhances the solar energy conversion efficiency to electrical energy and long-term stability of photovoltaic cells. Coupling between the Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphor monolayer and ultraviolet solar light induces the latter to be converted into visible light with a quantum yield above 80%. Concurrently, the Au nanoparticle monolayer on the phosphor nanoparticle monolayer amplifies the converted visible light by up to 170%. This synergy leads to an increased solar light energy conversion efficiency of perovskite solar cells. Simultaneously, the dual-function film suppresses the photodegradation of perovskite by UV light, resulting in long-term stability. Introducing the hybrid smart Au@Y2O3:Eu3+ film in perovskite solar cells increases their overall solar-to-electrical energy conversion efficiency to 16.1% and enhances long-term stability, as compared to the value of 15.2% for standard perovskite solar cells. The synergism between the wavelength conversion effect of the phosphor nanoparticle monolayer and the wave amplification by the localized surface plasmon resonance of the Au nanoparticle monolayer in a perovskite solar cell is comparatively investigated, providing a viable strategy of broadening the solar spectrum utilization.

It is often assumed that future coastal cliff retreat rates will accelerate as global sea level rises, but few studies have investigated how SLR (sea level rise) might change cliff-front wave dynamics. Using a new simple numerical model, this study simulates the number and type (breaking, broken, or unbroken) of cliff-front waves under future SLR scenarios. Previous research shows breaking waves deliver more energy to cliffs than broken waves, and unbroken waves generate minimal impact. Here, we investigated six cliff-platform profiles from three regions (USA, New Zealand, and UK) with varied tidal ranges and wave climates. Model inputs included 2013-2100 hindcast/forecast incident wave height and tidal water level, and three future SLR scenarios. Results show the number of both cliff-front breaking and broken waves generally increase for a high-elevation (relative to tide) cliff-platform junction. In contrast, breaking/broken wave occurrence decrease by 38-92% for a near-horizontal shore platform with a low-elevation cliff-platform junction under a high SRL scenario, leading to high (96-97%) unbroken wave occurrence. Overall, results suggest the response of cliff-front waves to future SLR is complex and depends on shore platform geometries and SLR scenarios, indicating that future cliff retreat rates may not homogeneously accelerate under SLR.

Abstract We developed an interdigitated microelectrode (IME) sensor system for blood-based Alzheimer’s disease (AD) diagnosis based on impedimetric detection of amyloid-β (Aβ) protein, which is a representative candidate biomarker for AD. The IME sensing device was fabricated using a surface micromachining process. For highly sensitive detection of several tens to hundreds of picogram/mL of Aβ in blood, medium change from plasma to PBS buffer was utilized with signal cancellation and amplification processing (SCAP) system. The system demonstrated approximately 100-folds higher sensitivity according to the concentrations. A robust antibody-immobilization process was used for stability during medium change. Selectivity of the reaction due to the affinity of Aβ to the antibody and the sensitivity according to the concentration of Aβ were also demonstrated. Considering these basic characteristics of the IME sensor system, the medium change was optimized in relation to the absolute value of impedance change and differentiated impedance changes for real plasma based Aβ detection. Finally, the detection of Aβ levels in transgenic and wild-type mouse plasma samples was accomplished with the designed sensor system and the medium-changing method. The results confirmed the potential of this system to discriminate between patients and healthy controls, which would enable blood-based AD diagnosis.