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Simple Summary: In veterinary medicine, intrahepatic cholelithiasis is a difficult disease to manage. Previously, treatment methods such as medical management or a liver lobectomy were suggested, although they cannot be used to treat some patients. Here, we describe the use of intrahepatic duct incision and closure to remove most of the cholelithiasis in the hepatic ducts of the left medial and lateral liver lobes in a dog with untreated hypothyroidism and multiple cholelithiasis. To our knowledge, this is the first report of this procedure in veterinary medicine. The findings from this case suggest that this technique can be used as a safe and feasible option in veterinary medicine as well as human medicine. However, because it often cannot remove all intrahepatic cholelithiasis, physicians must be cautious when choosing this treatment method. Although it is not the best way to treat intrahepatic duct cholelithiasis, it can be a new treatment option for patients who cannot receive conventional treatment methods. This report describes the successful intrahepatic duct incision and closure for the treatment of multiple cholelithiasis in a dog with untreated hypothyroidism. A 12-year-old spayed female Spitz dog weighing 11.3 kg was diagnosed with multiple cholelithiasis, and a quadrate liver lobectomy and cholecystectomy were performed. Large gallstones were located in the left liver lobe's intrahepatic duct distal to the anastomosis of the intrahepatic ducts of the left medial and lateral lobes. The dilated intrahepatic duct was packed off with wet gauze, and incision and closure were performed on the most dilated section, which was proximal to the largest gallstone. After surgery, the patient showed normal liver function and was discharged with normal total bilirubin and C-reactive protein levels. On postoperative day 83, no stones were observed in the dilated common bile duct (CBD), and the degree of dilatation of the CBD had decreased from 9 mm to 4 mm, with no obstructions. Right intrahepatic gallstones were confirmed without dilatation. Hypothyroidism was managed medically. Hepatic duct incision and closure can be performed in dogs with multiple cholelithiasis. Although not the first option, intrahepatic bile duct incision proves to be a new alternative for the successful treatment of cholelithiasis in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glaucoma remains the primary cause of long-term blindness. While diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN) are known to influence glaucoma, other factors such as age and sex may be involved. In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate the associations between age, sex, DM, HTN, and glaucoma risk. We employed optical coherence tomography (OCT) conducted using a 200 × 200-pixel optic cube (Cirrus HD OCT 6000, version 10.0; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA). Effects obscured by low-test signals were disregarded. Data were amassed from 1337 patients. Among them, 218 and 402 patients had DM and HTN, respectively, with 133 (10%) exhibiting both. A sex-based comparison revealed slightly greater retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness in females. Patients without DM and HTN were predominantly in their 50 s and 60 s, whereas DM and HTN were most prevalent in those in their 60 s and 70 s. Both RNFL and GCIPL thicknesses decreased with advancing age in most patients. The study revealed that older individuals were more prone to glaucoma than younger individuals, with a higher incidence among patients with DM and HTN and reduced RNFL and GCIPL thicknesses. Furthermore, early detection before advancing age could furnish valuable preventive insights. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of bi-monthly brolucimumab treatment in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) refractory to monthly aflibercept treatment. Methods: A retrospective chart review included 32 eyes of patients with refractory nAMD who switched from monthly intravitreal aflibercept treatment to bi-monthly intravitreal brolucizumab treatment. This study evaluated changes in visual acuity (VA), intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), pigment epithelial detachment (PED), and central macular thickness (CMT), at specific times as follows: baseline before switching (T0), 2 months after switching (T1), 4 months after switching (T2), and 6 months after switching (T3). Results: The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) did not significantly change across all time points (0.52 ± 0.12, 0.48 ± 0.27, 0.48 ± 0.28, and 0.50 ± 0.27 logarithms of the minimum angle of resolution in T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively). CMT significantly decreased after additional brolucizumab injections compared to the baseline (218.2 ± 48.6 and 207.9 ± 49.8 μm, respectively; p = 0.001). The PED height also significantly decreased from 251.0 ± 165.4 to 154.4 ± 115.65 μm (p < 0.001), with complete resolution in nine patients (28%). The mean subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) before brolucizumab treatment was 262.8 ± 79.7 μm, which decreased to 233.0 ± 71.2 μm (p = 0.001) after the first injection. The final SFCT also significantly decreased after additional brolucizumab injections compared to the baseline SFCT (p = 0.012). Conclusions: Bi-monthly brolucizumab treatment proves effective for patients refractory to monthly fixed aflibercept, resulting in positive anatomical changes without significant deterioration in visual acuity. This approach provides a promising prognosis while reducing the treatment burden on refractory patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to characterize the Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) features of the Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) in young adults without Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury and evaluate its visibility using MRI. In this retrospective analysis, MRI scans of 66 young adults without ACL injuries were assessed by two radiologists. The ALL was examined from its bone-to-bone attachment between the lateral femoral epicondyle and the lateral tibia. The visibility of the ALL was classified as normal, probably normal, abnormal, or non-visualized, based on ligament continuity and thickness relative to the Meniscotibial Ligament (MTL). A continuous structure with thickness equal to or greater than the MTL was considered normal; continuous but wavy and thin features were categorized as probably normal; discontinuity and angulation were deemed abnormal. The proximal attachment of the ALL was categorized as anterior, central, or posterior to the Fibular Collateral Ligament (FCL), while the distal attachment was noted as either at the same location or distal to the MTL. The ALL was identified in 87.9–95.5% of knees and was non-visualized in 4.5–12.1% of cases. Continuous ligamentous structures were observed in 63.7–71.2% of knees (normal in 30.3–37.9%; probably normal in 27.3–40.9%), whereas 19.7–30.3% exhibited abnormal features. Inter-observer agreement was moderate to substantial (κ = 0.66, 0.56), and intra-observer agreement was substantial to excellent (κ = 0.82, 0.66). Among the 58 visible ALLs, proximal attachments were predominantly anterior (63.8%) or central (32.8%) to the FCL, with a minority posterior (1.7%). In total, 4 of the 19 central insertions were incorporated into the FCL mid-substance, and one case was blended into the meniscofemoral ligament. Distal attachments were equally distributed between the same location (50%) and distal to the MTL (50%) (mean 3.7 mm distal). In conclusion, MRI was feasible for detecting the ALL in most young adults without ACL injury, revealing continuous ligament structures in about two-thirds of cases. Approximately 40% of cases exhibited a thickness equal to or greater than the MTL, with the majority of proximal attachments located anterior to the FCL and distal attachments evenly divided between the same insertion and distal to the MTL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry-powder inhalers (DPIs) are valued for their stability but formulating them is challenging due to powder aggregation and limited flowability, which affects drug delivery and uniformity. In this study, the incorporation of L-leucine (LEU) into hot-melt extrusion (HME) was proposed to enhance dispersibility while simultaneously maintaining the high aerodynamic performance of inhalable microparticles. This study explored using LEU in HME to improve dispersibility and maintain the high aerodynamic performance of inhalable microparticles. Formulations with crystalline itraconazole (ITZ) and LEU were made via co-jet milling and HME followed by jet milling. The LEU ratio varied, comparing solubility, homogenization, and aerodynamic performance enhancements. In HME, ITZ solubility increased, and crystallinity decreased. Higher LEU ratios in HME formulations reduced the contact angle, enhancing mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) size and aerodynamic performance synergistically. Achieving a maximum extra fine particle fraction of 33.68 ± 1.31% enabled stable deep lung delivery. This study shows that HME combined with LEU effectively produces inhalable particles, which is promising for improved drug dispersion and delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to fabricate mini-tablets of polyhedrons containing theophylline using a fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printer, and to evaluate the correlation between release kinetics models and their geometric shapes. The filaments containing theophylline, hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), and EUDRAGIT RS PO (EU) could be obtained with a consistent thickness through pre-drying before hot melt extrusion (HME). Mini-tablets of polyhedrons ranging from tetrahedron to icosahedron were 3D-printed using the same formulation of the filament, ensuring equal volumes. The release kinetics models derived from dissolution tests of the polyhedrons, along with calculations for various physical parameters (edge, SA: surface area, SA/W: surface area/weight, SA/V: surface area/volume), revealed that the correlation between the Higuchi model and the SA/V was the highest (R2 = 0.995). It was confirmed that using 3D- printing for the development of personalized or pediatric drug products allows for the adjustment of drug dosage by modifying the size or shape of the drug while maintaining or controlling the same release profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyperpigmentation occurs due to irregular secretion of melanin pigment in the skin. This can affect quality of life depending on its severity, so prevention and management are essential. Oats (Avena sativa L.), a grain consumed worldwide, are known to offer improved health benefits upon germination and fermentation. This study is aimed to investigate the protective effects of lactobacilli-fermented sprouted oat extracts on oxidative stress and melanin overproduction in vitro. The anti-melanogenic effect was investigated using melanin content and tyrosinase activity assays in B16F10 cells, as well as a mushroom tyrosinase-based enzyme inhibition assay. The results showed that L. casei-fermented oat extracts were the most effective for reducing melanin formation by reducing the mRNA expression of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, tyrosinase, and tyrosinase-related protein 2. Furthermore, L. casei fermentation was effective in improving the total phenolic, flavonoid, and avenanthramide A contents of sprouted oat extracts. The results also demonstrated the antioxidant effects of L. casei-fermented sprouted oat extracts in promoting DPPH radical-scavenging activity, superoxide dismutase-like activity, and reduction in reactive oxygen species levels. Overall, the findings indicate that fermented sprouted oat extracts are promising candidates for antioxidant and anti-hyperpigmentation treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Sexual selection, through female choice or male–male competition, plays a crucial role in evolutionary diversification and speciation. While the evolutionary benefits and history of traits influenced by sexual selection are well-studied, the molecular genetic mechanisms of their development are less explored. Recent advances in genomic technologies such as RNA-Seq have shed light on the genetic basis of these traits across diverse taxa. This review compiles data on the genes and genetic processes involved in the development of sexually selected traits, revealing a common genetic architecture across different lineages. It highlights the frequent use of pre-existing genetic networks (i.e., gene network "co-option") in the evolution of these traits, suggesting the repeated involvement of specific genes or gene sets in various sexually selected traits. Information on the genetic regulation of the development of sexually selected traits is valuable in providing a complete picture of their origin and evolution. Sexual selection involving female choice or female preference ('inter-sexual' selection) and/or male–male competition ('intra-sexual' selection) is one of the key mechanisms for evolutionary diversification and speciation. In particular, sexual selection is recently suggested to be an important mode to drive the evolution of the "novel" phenotype (i.e., "evolutionary novelty"). Despite extensive studies performed on sexually selected traits or male-specific ornaments (or weapon-like structures) with respect to their evolutionary origin, history and fitness benefits, relatively little is known about the molecular genetic mechanisms underlying their developmental process. However, with advances in genomic technologies (including whole transcriptome analysis using Next Generation Sequencing [NGS] techniques; RNA-Seq), progress has been made to unveil the genetic background underpinning diverse sexually selected traits in different animal taxa. In the present review, empirical data on the genes, genetic mechanisms, or regulatory pathways underlying various sexually selected traits were compiled to explore whether "common" genetic architectures shape the development and evolution of these traits across evolutionarily distant animal lineages. It is shown that the recruitment of the pre-existing genetic network for a new purpose (i.e., gene network "co-option") is rather widespread in the development and evolution of sexually selected traits, indicating that particular genes or gene sets are repeatedly involved in different sexually selected traits. Information on genes or genetic mechanisms regulating the development of sexually selected traits is an essential piece to complete a whole picture of the origin and evolution of sexually selected traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to maintain the performance of a fuel cell vehicle, it is essential to maintain a constant temperature of the stack. Therefore, it is very important to distribute the optimal coolant flow rate to each major component under very diverse and rapidly changing dynamic operating conditions. The part responsible for this is a five-way electric coolant valve. Therefore, this study aims to investigate transient dynamic flow characteristics of the fluid flow through a five-way electric coolant valve (PCCV: Penta-Control Coolant Valve). To achieve this goal, this paper attempts a three-dimensional dynamic simulation of the fluid flow through the valve using a commercial CFD solver with moving mesh technique to consider flow inertia and dynamic flow in the opening and closing stages of the ball valve rotating motion. The dynamic flow characteristics and the thermal mixing inside the PCCV ball valve during the opening and closing stages are analyzed. It was found that the discrepancies between dynamic and steady-state simulations are remarkable when fluxes with different levels of enthalpy and momentum flow into the PCCV, leading to strong flow interference and flow inertia, while the discrepancies are relatively small at low rotation speed and weak flow interference. Subsequently, the effect of the dynamic flow characteristics of the valve on the dynamic thermal mixing characteristics at two different ball valve rotation speeds and rotation directions are investigated. It was found that the dynamic flow and thermal mixing characteristics inside the PCCV are greatly affected by the rotation speed, rotation direction, and degree of flow interference between fluxes. It also helps design better coolant control strategies and improves the FCEV thermal management system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of genetic factors that regulate the cancer immune microenvironment is important for understanding the mechanism of tumor progression and establishing an effective treatment strategy. Polycystic kidney and hepatic disease 1-like protein 1 (PKHD1L1) is a large transmembrane protein that is highly expressed in immune cells; however, its association with tumor progression remains unclear. Here, we systematically analyzed the clinical relevance of PKHD1L1 in the tumor microenvironment in multiple cancer types using various bioinformatic tools. We found that the PKHD1L1 mRNA expression levels were significantly lower in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) than in normal tissues. The decreased expression of PKHD1L1 was significantly associated with unfavorable overall survival (OS) in SKCM and LUAD. Additionally, PKHD1L1 expression was positively correlated with the levels of infiltrating B cells, cluster of differentiation (CD)-8+ T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells, suggesting that the infiltration of immune cells could be associated with a good prognosis due to increased PKHD1L1 expression. Gene ontology (GO) analysis also revealed the relationship between PKHD1L1-co-altered genes and the activation of lymphocytes, including B and T cells. Collectively, this study shows that PKHD1L1 expression is positively correlated with a good prognosis via the induction of immune infiltration, suggesting that PKHD1L1 has potential prognostic value in SKCM and LUAD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adenophora triphylla is an important medicinal and food plant found in East Asia. This plant is rich in secondary metabolites such as triterpenoid saponin, and its leaves can develop into different types, such as round and linear, depending on the origin of germination even within the same species. Despite this, few studies have comprehensively characterized the development processes of different leaf types and triterpenoid saponin pathways in this plant. Herein, we provide the first report of a high-quality genome assembly of A. triphylla based on a combination of Oxford Nanopore Technologies and Illumina sequencing methods. Its genome size was estimated to be 2.6 Gb, and the assembled genome finalized as 2.48 Gb, containing 57,729 protein-coding genes. Genome completeness was assessed as 95.6% using the Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs score. The evolutionary divergence of A. triphylla was investigated using the genomes of five plant species, including two other species in the Campanulaceae family. The species A. triphylla diverged approximately 51-118 million years ago from the other four plants, and 579 expanded/contracted gene families were clustered in the Gene Ontology terms. The expansion of the β-amyrin synthase (bAS) gene, a key enzyme in the triterpenoid saponin pathway, was identified in the A. triphylla genome. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis of the two leaf types revealed differences in the activity of starch, sucrose, unsaturated fatty acid pathways, and oxidoreductase enzymes. The heat and endoplasmic reticulum pathways related to plant stress were active in the development of round type leaf, while an enhancement of pyrimidine metabolism related to cell development was confirmed in the development of the linear type leaf. This study provides insight into the evolution of bAS genes and the development of different leaf types in A. triphylla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Embryonic genome activation (EGA) is a critical step during embryonic development. Several transcription factors have been identified that play major roles in initiating EGA; however, this gradual and complex mechanism still needs to be explored. In this study, we investigated the role of nuclear transcription factor Y subunit A (NFYA) in bovine EGA and bovine embryonic development and its relationship with the platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFRβ) by using a potent selective activator (PDGF-BB) and inhibitor (CP-673451) of PDGF receptors. Activation and inhibition of PDGFRβ using PDGF-BB and CP-673451 revealed that NFYA expression is significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the PDGFRβ. In addition, PDGFRβ mRNA expression was significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the activator group and significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in the inhibitor group when compared with PDGFRα. Downregulation of NFYA following PDGFRβ inhibition was associated with the expression of critical EGA-related genes, bovine embryo development rate, and implantation potential. Moreover, ROS and mitochondrial apoptosis levels and expression of pluripotency-related markers necessary for inner cell mass development were also significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the downregulation of NFYA while interrupting trophoblast cell (CDX2) differentiation. In conclusion, the PDGFRβ-NFYA axis is critical for bovine embryonic genome activation and embryonic development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bloodstream infection (BSI) after pediatric liver transplantation (PLT) is a common and severe complication that affects patient survival. Children with biliary atresia (BA) are at an increased risk for clinically significant infections. This study evaluated the impact of post-PLT BSI on clinical outcomes in children with BA. A total of 67 patients with BA aged <18 years who underwent PLT between April 2006 and September 2020 were analyzed and divided into two groups according to the occurrence of post-PLT BSI within 1 month (BSI vs. no BSI = 13 [19.4%] vs. 54 [80.6%]). The BSI group was significantly younger at the time of PLT and had a higher frequency of BSI at the time of PLT than the no BSI group. Early vascular complications within 3 months and reoperations were significantly more frequent in the BSI group. Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that bacteremia within 1 month of PLT and graft-to-recipient weight ratio >4% were significantly associated with vascular complications. In conclusion, BSI after PLT is associated with increased vascular complications and reoperations. Proper control of bacterial infections and early liver transplantation before uncontrolled BSI may reduce vascular complications and unexpected reoperations in children with BA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Positioning of the femoral tunnel during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is the most crucial factor for successful procedure. Owing to the inter-individual variability in the intra-articular anatomy, it can be challenging to obtain precise tunnel placement and ensure consistent results. Currently, the three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of computed tomography (CT) scans is considered the best method for determining whether femoral tunnels are positioned correctly. Postoperative 3D-CT feedback can improve the accuracy of femoral tunnel placement. Precise tunnel formation obtained through feedback has a positive effect on graft maturation, graft failure, and clinical outcomes after surgery. However, even if femoral tunnel placement on 3D CT is appropriate, we should recognize that acute graft bending negatively affects surgical results. This review aimed to discuss the implementation of 3D-CT evaluation for predicting postoperative outcomes following ACL re-construction. Reviewing research that has performed 3D CT evaluations after ACL reconstruction can provide clinically significant evidence of the formation of ideal tunnels following anatomic ACL reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of real-time audio ventilation feedback on the survival of patients with an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) during advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) performed by paramedics. This research was a prospective randomized controlled study performed in Busan, South Korea, from July 2022 to December 2022. This study included 121 patients, ages 19 and up, who were transferred to the study site, excluding 91 patients who did not receive CPR under a doctor's direction as well as those who had a '(DNR)' order among 212 adult CA patients. OHCA patients' clinical prognosis was compared by being randomly assigned to either a general manual defibrillator (NVF) group (N = 58) or a manual defibrillator with an audio ventilation feedback (AVF) group (N = 63). To verify the primary outcome, the cerebral performance category (CPC), return of spontaneous consciousness (ROSC), 30h survival, and survival discharge were compared. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to analyze the association between the audio-feedback manual defibrillator (AVF) and the ROSC of OHCA patients. This study analyzed 121 patients among 212 OHCA patients. The ROSC (AVF group: 32 {26.4%} vs. NVF group: 21 {17.3%}), 24 h survival (AVF group: 24 {19.8%} vs. NVF group: 11 {9.0%}), and survival discharge (AVF group: 12 {9.9%} vs. NVF group: 6 {4.9%}) were higher in the AVF group than the NVF group. However, upon analyzing CPC scores in the surviving patients between the two groups, there was no significant difference (AVF group: 4.1 ± 1.23 vs. NVF group:4.7 ± 1.23, p = 1.232). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the use of AVF was associated with a higher ROSC (odds ratio {OR}, 0.46; 95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.23–0.73; p < 0.01) and higher survival at 30 h (OR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.41–0.98; p = 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerability of our ecosystem and demonstrated a crucial need to address sustainability across the fashion supply chain, including the end-use consumer. As consumers become more conscious and demand sustainable fashion, the question of whether the pandemic has shaped such behaviors for long-term transitions remains unanswered. This qualitative study aimed to understand whether the COVID-19 pandemic has created a societal shift in individual attitudes toward sustainable fashion, whether it can help to motivate long-term sustainable consumption practices, and whether positive psychology plays a role in this context. With online survey data collected from 154 US consumers, summative content analysis and thematic analysis results revealed that as consumers continued to be puzzled by what constitutes sustainability, their pro-sustainability attitudes and behaviors did not evolve as claimed by prior literature. However, not only positive emotions associated with care and concern motivated consumers' pro-sustainability, but indeed post-purchase positive feelings of contentment and altruism were revealed, affirming the need for marketing messages to incorporate positive psychology perspectives to motivate long-term sustainable fashion consumption practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conventional dosage form of Ethyol® (amifostine), a sterile lyophilized powder, involves reconstituting it with 9.7 mL of sterile 0.9% sodium chloride in accordance with the United States Pharmacopeia specifications for intravenous infusion. The purpose of this study was to develop inhalable microparticles of amifostine (AMF) and compare the physicochemical properties and inhalation efficiency of AMF microparticles prepared by different methods (jet milling and wet ball milling) and different solvents (methanol, ethanol, chloroform, and toluene). Inhalable microparticles of AMF dry powder were prepared using a wet ball-milling process with polar and non-polar solvents to improve their efficacy when delivered through the pulmonary route. The wet ball-milling process was performed as follows: AMF (10 g), zirconia balls (50 g), and solvent (20 mL) were mixed and placed in a cylindrical stainless-steel jar. Wet ball milling was performed at 400 rpm for 15 min. The physicochemical properties and aerodynamic characteristics of the prepared samples were evaluated. The physicochemical properties of wet-ball-milled microparticles (WBM-M and WBM-E) using polar solvents were confirmed. Aerodynamic characterization was not used to measure the % fine particle fraction (% FPF) value in the raw AMF. The % FPF value of JM was 26.9 ± 5.8%. The % FPF values of the wet-ball-milled microparticles WBM-M and WBM-E prepared using polar solvents were 34.5 ± 0.2% and 27.9 ± 0.7%, respectively; while the % FPF values of the wet-ball-milled microparticles WBM-C and WBM-T prepared using non-polar solvents were 45.5 ± 0.6% and 44.7 ± 0.3%, respectively. Using a non-polar solvent in the wet ball-milling process resulted in a more homogeneous and stable crystal form of the fine AMF powder than using a polar solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of the fluid-attenuated inversion recovery sequence with fat suppression (FLAIR-FS) for the assessment of ankle synovitis without contrast enhancement. FLAIR-FS and contrast-enhanced, T1-weighted sequences (CE-T1) of 94 ankles were retrospectively reviewed by two radiologists. Grading of synovial visibility (four-point scale) and semi-quantitative scoring of synovial thickness (three-point scale) were performed in four compartments of the ankle in both sequences. Synovial visibility and thickness in FLAIR-FS and CE-T1 images were compared, and agreement between both sequences was assessed. Synovial visibility grades and synovial thickness scores for FLAIR-FS images were lower than those for CE-T1 images (reader 1, p = 0.016, p < 0.001; reader 2, p = 0.009, p < 0.001). Dichotomized synovial visibility grades (partial vs. full visibility) were not significantly different between both sequences. The agreement in synovial thickness scores between the FLAIR-FS and CE-T1 images was moderate to substantial (κ = 0.41–0.65). The interobserver agreement between the two readers was fair for synovial visibility (κ = 0.27–0.32) and moderate to substantial for synovial thickness (κ = 0.54–0.74). In conclusion, FLAIR-FS is a feasible MRI sequence for the evaluation of ankle synovitis without contrast enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the femoral tunnel geometry (femoral tunsnel location, femoral graft bending angle, and femoral tunnel length) on three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) and graft inclination on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using a flexible reamer system. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 patients who underwent anatomical ACL reconstruction (ACLR) using a flexible reamer system were retrospectively reviewed. One day after the ACLR procedure was performed, all patients underwent three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The femoral tunnel location, femoral graft bending angle, femoral tunnel length, and graft inclination were assessed. Results: In the 3D-CTs, the femoral tunnel was located at 29.7 ± 4.4% in the posterior to anterior (deep to shallow) direction and at 24.1 ± 5.9% in the proximal to distal (high to low) direction. The mean femoral graft bending angle was 113.9 ± 5.7°, and the mean femoral tunnel length was 35.2 ± 3.1 mm. Posterior wall breakage was observed in five patients (8.3%). In the MRIs, the mean coronal graft inclination was 69.2 ± 4.7°, and the mean sagittal graft inclination was 52.4 ± 4.6°. The results of this study demonstrated that a comparable femoral graft bending angle and longer femoral tunnel length were observed compared with the reported outcomes from previous studies that used the rigid reamer system. Conclusions: ACLR using a flexible reamer system allowed for an anatomic femoral tunnel location and a comparable graft inclination to that of the native ACL. In addition, it achieved a tolerable femoral graft bending angle and femoral tunnel length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was carried out to analyze the combined and mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP)/fly ash (FA)/waste stone powder (WSP) composite materials. PP, FA and WSP were mixed and prepared into PP100 (pure PP), PP90 (90 wt% PP + 5 wt% FA + 5 wt% WSP), PP80 (80 wt% PP + 10 wt% FA + 10 wt% WSP), PP70 (70 wt% PP + 15 wt% FA + 15 wt% WSP), PP60 (60 wt% PP + 20 wt% FA + 20 wt% WSP) and PP50 (50 wt% PP + 25 wt% FA + 25 wt% WSP) composite materials using an injection molding machine. The research results indicate that all PP/FA/WSP composite materials can be prepared through the injection molding process and there are no cracks or fractures found on the surface of the composite materials. The research results of thermogravimetric analysis are consistent with expectations, indicating that the preparation method of the composite materials in this study is reliable. Although the addition of FA and WSP powder cannot increase the tensile strength, it is very helpful to improve the bending strength and notched impact energy. Especially for notched impact energy, the addition of FA and WSP results in an increase in the notched impact energy of all PP/FA/WSP composite materials by 14.58–22.22%. This study provides a new direction for the reuse of various waste resources. Moreover, based on the excellent bending strength and notched impact energy, the PP/FA/WSP composite materials have great application potential in the composite plastic industry, artificial stone, floor tiles and other industries in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Object detection is a fundamental task in computer vision. Over the past several years, convolutional neural network (CNN)-based object detection models have significantly improved detection accuracyin terms of average precision (AP). Furthermore, feature pyramid networks (FPNs) are essential modules for object detection models to consider various object scales. However, the AP for small objects is lower than the AP for medium and large objects. It is difficult to recognize small objects because they do not have sufficient information, and information is lost in deeper CNN layers. This paper proposes a new FPN model named ssFPN (scale sequence (S 2 ) feature-based feature pyramid network) to detect multi-scale objects, especially small objects. We propose a new scale sequence (S 2 ) feature that is extracted by 3D convolution on the level of the FPN. It is defined and extracted from the FPN to strengthen the information on small objects based on scale-space theory. Motivated by this theory, the FPN is regarded as a scale space and extracts a scale sequence (S 2 ) feature by three-dimensional convolution on the level axis of the FPN. The defined feature is basically scale-invariant and is built on a high-resolution pyramid feature map for small objects. Additionally, the deigned S 2 feature can be extended to most object detection models based on FPNs. We also designed a feature-level super-resolution approach to show the efficiency of the scale sequence (S 2 ) feature. We verified that the scale sequence (S 2 ) feature could improve the classification accuracy for low-resolution images by training a feature-level super-resolution model. To demonstrate the effect of the scale sequence (S 2 ) feature, experiments on the scale sequence (S 2 ) feature built-in object detection approach including both one-stage and two-stage models were conducted on the MS COCO dataset. For the two-stage object detection models Faster R-CNN and Mask R-CNN with the S 2 feature, AP improvements of up to 1.6% and 1.4%, respectively, were achieved. Additionally, the AP S of each model was improved by 1.2% and 1.1%, respectively. Furthermore, the one-stage object detection models in the YOLO series were improved. For YOLOv4-P5, YOLOv4-P6, YOLOR-P6, YOLOR-W6, and YOLOR-D6 with the S 2 feature, 0.9%, 0.5%, 0.5%, 0.1%, and 0.1% AP improvements were observed. For small object detection, the AP S increased by 1.1%, 1.1%, 0.9%, 0.4%, and 0.1%, respectively. Experiments using the feature-level super-resolution approach with the proposed scale sequence (S 2 ) feature were conducted on the CIFAR-100 dataset. By training the feature-level super-resolution model, we verified that ResNet-101 with the S 2 feature trained on LR images achieved a 55.2% classification accuracy, which was 1.6% higher than for ResNet-101 trained on HR images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In some species of birds, asynchronous hatching occurs when incubation begins before completion of clutch, resulting in age differences between nestlings. According to the brood reduction hypothesis, which explains the reason for asynchronous hatching, selective survival is permitted only for older nestlings when availability of food is unpredictable. Due to the feature of food distribution, passerines are not likely to practice selective feeding of older nestlings. The essential purpose of this study is to determine whether the brood reduction hypothesis can explain asynchronous hatching in passerines. Infrared cameras were installed inside nest boxes to determine whether great tit (Parus major) parents, which show asynchronous hatching, practices selective feeding of older nestlings. The results of this study showed that great tit parents did not practice selective feeding of older nestlings, highlighting that using the brood reduction hypothesis to explain asynchronous hatching of great tits is not reasonable. Further research is needed in order to explain the adaptiveness of asynchronous hatching. The brood reduction hypothesis, which explains asynchronous hatching in birds, as an adaptation that enables selective survival of older nestlings when availability of food is unpredictable. This study was conducted in order to determine whether the brood reduction hypothesis can explain asynchronous hatching in passerines. Infrared cameras were installed inside nest boxes where great tits (Parus major) were attempting to reproduce in order to determine whether the parents practiced selective feeding of older nestlings. According to the results of the study, no significant difference was observed between the hatching order and the average number of feedings per nestling. In addition, when examining the distribution of food according to hatching order over time, every 30 min, beginning at 9 a.m., selective distribution of food to older nestlings was not observed. In conclusion, use of the brood reduction hypothesis, which supports selective provision of beneficial feeding of older and larger nestlings, to explain the asynchronous hatching of passerines is problematic, thus conduct of future studies focusing on other hypotheses in order to explain the asynchronous hatching of this passerine bird will be necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platycodon grandiflorum belongs to the Campanulaceae family and is an important medicinal and food plant in East Asia. However, on the whole, the genome evolution of P. grandiflorum and the molecular basis of its major biochemical pathways are poorly understood. We reported a chromosome-scale genome assembly of P. grandiflorum based on a hybrid method using Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Illumina sequences, and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) analysis. The assembled genome was finalized as 574 Mb, containing 41,355 protein-coding genes, and the genome completeness was assessed as 97.6% using a Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs analysis. The P. grandiflorum genome comprises nine pseudo-chromosomes with 56.9% repeat sequences, and the transcriptome analysis revealed an expansion of the 14 beta-amylin genes related to triterpenoid saponin biosynthesis. Our findings provide an understanding of P. grandiflorum genome evolution and enable genomic-assisted breeding for the mass production of important components such as triterpenoid saponins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seven undescribed guaiane-type sesquiterpenoids named biscogniauxiaols A–G (1–7) were isolated from the endophytic fungus Biscogniauxia petrensis on Dendrobium orchids. Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses, electronic circular dichroism (EC) and specific rotation (SR) calculations. Compound 1 represented a new family of guaiane-type sesquiterpenoids featuring an unprecedented [5/6/6/7] tetracyclic system. A plausible biosynthetic pathway for compounds 1–7 was proposed. The anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and multidrug resistance reversal activities of the isolates were evaluated. Compounds 1, 2 and 7 exhibited potent inhibitory activities against Candida albicans with MIC values ranging from 1.60 to 6.30 μM, and suppressed nitric oxide (NO) production with IC50 ranging from 4.60 to 20.00 μM. Additionally, all compounds (100 μg/mL) enhanced the cytotoxicity of cisplatin in cisplatin-resistant non-small cell lung cancer cells (A549/DDP). This study opened up a new source for obtaining bioactive guaiane-type sesquiterpenoids and compounds 1, 2, and 7 were promising for further optimization as multifunctional inhibitors for anti-fungal (C. albicans) and anti-inflammatory purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Platycodon grandiflorus (balloon flower), used as a food reserve as well as in traditional herbal medicine, is known for its multiple beneficial effects. In particular, this plant is widely used as a vegetable in Republic of Korea. We examined the ameliorative effects of P. grandiflorus on alloxan-induced pancreatic islet damage in zebrafish. The aerial part treatment led to a significant recovery in pancreatic islet size and glucose uptake. The efficacy of the aerial part was more potent than that of the root. Eight flavonoids (1–8) were isolated from the aerial part. Structures of two new flavone glycosides, designated dorajiside I (1) and II (2), were elucidated to be luteolin 7-O-α-L-rhamno-pyranosyl (1 → 2)-(6-O-acetyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside and apigenin 7-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl (1 → 2)-(6-O-acetyl)-β-D-glucopyranoside, respectively, by spectroscopic analysis. Compounds 1, 3, 4 and 6–8 yielded the recovery of injured pancreatic islets in zebrafish. Among them, compound 7 blocked KATP channels in pancreatic β-cells. Furthermore, compounds 3, 4, 6 and 7 showed significant changes with respect to the mRNA expression of GCK, GCKR, GLIS3 and CDKN2B compared to alloxan-induced zebrafish. In conclusion, the aerial part of P. grandiflorus and its constituents conferred a regenerative effect on injured pancreatic islets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the rice fermentation product of a new record fungus, Neohelicosporium griseum, two new polyketides, neogrisphenol A (1) and neogrisphenol B (2), one new isochroman-1-one, (S)-6-hydroxy-7-methoxy-3,5-dimethylisochroman-1-one (3), and four known compounds (4–7) were isolated. Their structures were determined using 1D- and 2D-NMR, mass spectrometry, and chemical calculations. The C-3~C-2′ polymerization mode between the two α-naphthalenone derivative moieties is uncommon in compounds 1 and 2. Meanwhile, compounds 1–2 and 5 exhibited antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium perfringens, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus aureus, with MIC values ranging between 16 and 31 µg/mL. In addition, compound 5 showed antifungal activity against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Phytophthora nicotianae var. nicotianae, with respective IC50 values of 88.14 ± 2.21 µg/mL and 52.36 ± 1.38 µg/mL. Compound 1 showed significant cytotoxicity against A2780, PC-3, and MBA-MD-231 cell lines with respective IC50 values of 3.20, 10.68, and 16.30 µM, and the cytotoxicity against A2780 cells was even higher than that of cisplatin (CDDP). With an IC50 value of 10.13 µM, compound 2 also exhibited cytotoxicity against A2780. The in vitro results showed that compound 1 inhibited A2780 cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and arrested the cell cycle at the S-phase in a concentration-dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Warburg effect" provides a novel method for treating cancer cell metabolism. Overexpression of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and downregulation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) have been identified as biomarkers of abnormal cancer cell metabolism. Metformin (MET) is an effective therapy for breast cancer (BC), but its efficacy is largely reliant on the concentration of glucose at the tumor site. We propose a WZB117 (a GLUT1 inhibitor)-OCMC (O-carboxymethyl-chitosan)-MET combo strategy for simultaneous GLUT1 and mTOR targeting for alteration of BC metabolism. WZB117 conjugated polymeric nanoparticles were 225.67 ± 11.5 nm in size, with a PDI of 0.113 ± 0.16, and an encapsulation of 72.78 6.4%. OCMC pH-dependently and selectively releases MET at the tumor site. MET targets the mTOR pathway in cancer cells, and WZB117 targets BCL2 to alter GLUT1 at the cancer site. WZB117-OCMC-MET overcomes the limitations of MET monotherapy by targeting mTOR and BCL2 synergistically. WZB117-OCMC-MET activates AMPK and suppresses mTOR in a Western blot experiment, indicating growth-inhibitory and apoptotic characteristics. AO/EB and the cell cycle enhance cellular internalization as compared to MET alone. WZB117-OCMC-MET affects cancer cells' metabolism and is a promising BC therapeutic strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the optimal boiling time to reduce ptaquiloside (PTA) and to carry out a risk assessment for PTA, a representative toxic substance found in bracken fern (BF; Pteridium aquilinum), which is frequently consumed as food in East Asian countries. High-performance liquid chromatography showed that the concentration of PTA in BF was reduced by up to 99% after boiling for 20 min. Risk assessment results showed that the cancer margin of exposure (MOE; ≥ 25,000 = safe) to PTA for an average daily exposure scenario after boiling BF for 20 min was considered safe. In addition, the non-cancer MOE (≥ 300 = safe) to PTA under an average daily exposure scenario after BF boiling for 20 min was considered safe. However, human exposure to PTA was considered unsafe under the non-boiled BF exposure and maximum daily exposure scenarios. Therefore, boiling BF for at least 20 min is recommended before consumption, to reduce exposure to PTA as much as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis leads to multi-organ failure due to aggressive systemic inflammation, which is one of the main causes of death clinically. This study aimed to evaluate whether ginseng sprout extracts (GSE) can rescue sepsis and explore its underlying mechanisms. C57BL/6J male mice (n = 15/group) were pre-administered with GSE (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, p.o) for 5 days, and a single injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 30 mg/kg, i.p) was administered to construct a sepsis model. Additionally, RAW264.7 cells were treated with LPS with/without GSE/its main components (Rd and Re) to explain the mechanisms corresponding to the animal-derived effects. LPS injection led to the death of all mice within 38 h, while GSE pretreatment delayed the time to death. GSE pretreatment also notably ameliorated LPS-induced systemic inflammation such as histological destruction in both the lung and liver, along with reductions in inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, in both tissues and serum. Additionally, GSE markedly diminished the drastic secretion of nitric oxide (NO) by suppressing the expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) in both tissues. Similar changes in TNF-α, IL-1β, NO, iNOS, and COX2 were observed in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, and protein expression data and nuclear translocation assays suggested GSE could modulate LPS-binding protein (LBP), Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), and NF-κB. Ginsenoside Rd could be a major active component in GSE that produces the anti-sepsis effects. Our data support that ginseng sprouts could be used as an herbal resource to reduce the risk of sepsis. The corresponding mechanisms may involve TLR4/NF-κB signaling and a potentially active component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon microcoils (CMCs) were formed on stainless steel substrates using C2H2 + SF6 gas flows in a thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) system. The manipulation of the SF6 gas flow rate and the SF6 gas flow injection time was carried out to obtain controllable CMC geometries. The change in CMC geometry, especially CMC diameter as a function of SF6 gas flow injection time, was remarkable. In addition, the incorporation of H2 gas into the C2H2 + SF6 gas flow system with cyclic SF6 gas flow caused the formation of the hybrid of carbon nanofibers–carbon microcoils (CNFs–CMCs). The hybrid of CNFs–CMCs was composed of numerous small-sized CNFs, which formed on the CMCs surfaces. The electromagnetic wave shielding effectiveness (SE) of the heating film, made by the hybrids of CNFs–CMCs incorporated carbon paste film, was investigated across operating frequencies in the 1.5–40 GHz range. It was compared to heating films made from commercial carbon paste or the controllable CMCs incorporated carbon paste. Although the electrical conductivity of the native commercial carbon paste was lowered by both the incorporation of the CMCs and the hybrids of CNFs–CMCs, the total SE values of the manufactured heating film increased following the incorporation of these materials. Considering the thickness of the heating film, the presently measured values rank highly among the previously reported total SE values. This dramatic improvement in the total SE values was mainly ascribed to the intrinsic characteristics of CMC and/or the hybrid of CNFs–CMCs contributing to the absorption shielding route of electromagnetic waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenchymal stromal cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iMSCs) have been proposed as alternative sources of primary MSCs with various advantages for cell therapeutic trials. However, precise evaluation of the differences between iMSCs and primary MSCs is lacking due to individual variations in the donor cells, which obscure direct comparisons between the two. In this study, we generated donor-matched iMSCs from individual bone marrow-derived MSCs and directly compared their cell-autonomous and paracrine therapeutic effects. We found that the transition from primary MSCs to iMSCs is accompanied by a functional shift towards higher proliferative activity, with variations in differentiation potential in a donor cell-dependent manner. The transition from MSCs to iMSCs was associated with common changes in transcriptomic and proteomic profiles beyond the variations of their individual donors, revealing expression patterns unique for the iMSCs. These iMSC-specific patterns were characterized by a shift in cell fate towards a pericyte-like state and enhanced secretion of paracrine cytokine/growth factors. Accordingly, iMSCs exhibited higher support for the self-renewing expansion of primitive hematopoietic progenitors and more potent immune suppression of allogenic immune responses than MSCs. Our study suggests that iMSCs represent a separate entity of MSCs with unique therapeutic potential distinct from their parental MSCs, but points to the need for iMSC characterization in the individual basis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variable resolution configuration is a defining feature of the NCAR MPAS (Model for Prediction Across Scales) model, which allows us to smoothly vary the horizontal resolution for taking a closer look at an area of interest. In this study, we aimed to analyze the impact of variable resolution on intrinsic predictability using bred vectors. Thus, the breeding cycles of the MPAS model with and without variable resolution configuration were implemented and tested with two different rescaling intervals of 6 h and 1 day. Rescaling within our breeding cycles were centered by the nature run, thus we could deal with the intrinsic predictability limited only by the initial error growth. We confirmed reasonable estimates of fast-growing errors by bred vectors at two different scales of convective and synoptic systems. We then found that the variable resolution configuration gave consistent improvement of intrinsic predictability not only over the high-resolution area but also outside. A quantitative analysis showed that an improvement with the variable resolution could be found in general for most vertical levels for both rescaling interval experiments. Additionally, we present the computational cost and experience of performing the variable resolution model which would help users in their decisions on this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Over the last few decades, the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti has become one of the most abundant and dangerous arbovirus vectors in Asia. In this study, we assessed the invasion pattern of Aedes aegypti by investigating its distribution, relative abundance with its closest competitor Aedes albopictus, and genetic diversity in Vietnam. Our results revealed that the distribution and abundance of this species are significantly influenced by climate region, larval habitat, and the presence of Aedes albopictus. Furthermore, we found a high level of genetic diversity in Aedes aegypti, with two major genetic lineages. The results of this study have significant potential for optimizing vector control strategies regarding future mosquito invasion and outbreak prediction in Asia. Since its introduction to Asia, Aedes aegypti has coexisted with the native species Ae. albopictus and has been reported to transmit several infectious diseases. However, the development of efficient disease prevention and vector control is hindered by the relatively poor understanding of the biogeography and the genetic diversity of Ae. aegypti in the region. This study aimed to determine the invasion patterns of Ae. aegypti by evaluating the distribution and abundance of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus in different climatic regions (northern temperate and southern tropical regions) and habitats (domestic, peri-domestic, and natural). We further analyzed the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of Ae. aegypti populations in Vietnam using mitochondrial COI gene sequences. Both Aedes species were observed at most of the study sites, but only Ae. albopictus thrived in northern mountainous areas. In sympatric ranges, the individual abundance of the species was influenced by regional climate and habitats. The tropical climate and availability of domestic containers facilitated the dominance of Ae. aegypti, whereas temperate climates and natural breeding sites facilitated that of Ae. albopictus. In addition, many genetic polymorphisms were detected in the Ae. aegypti populations, which formed two distinct genetic groups; however, this genetic diversity is unlikely to be relevant to the invasive success of Ae. aegypti. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms and patterns of Ae. Aegypti invasion, which depend on the climate and reproductive strategies in the native range of Ae. albopictus in Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Live immunization is contraindicated in patients with DiGeorge syndrome (DGS). We retrospectively investigated the occurrence of adverse events after live immunization in patients with DGS in Korea. The data of patients matching the International Classification of Disease-10 code of DGS (D82.1) at Severance Hospital Seoul, Korea, were extracted; patients without genetically diagnosed DGS were excluded. Based on T cell immunity status, the included patients were categorized into group A (CD3 < 500 or CD8 < 200 cells/mm3); group B (CD3 ≥ 500 and CD8 ≥ 200 cells/mm3); or group C (unknown). Among 94 patients, 38 (~40%, group A: 8 [21%]; group B: 30 [79%]) underwent immunological testing and 73 (~80%) received at least one live immunization (measles–mumps–rubella vaccination was most common [66/94, ~70%]). Fifty adverse events (fever [n = 29], upper respiratory infection [n = 9], diarrhea [n = 4], rash [n = 3], thrombocytopenia [n = 3], injection site pus [n = 1], and febrile convulsion [n = 1]) were observed; 13 (26%) occurred in group A, with no significant difference in incidence between groups A and B. Serious adverse events, including intensive care unit hospitalization or death, or diseases due to vaccine strains were not observed. In this study, live immunization was well tolerated by patients with partial DGS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grifola frondosa (GF), a species of Basidiomycotina, is widely distributed across Asia and has been used as an immunomodulatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-cancer agent. In the present study, the pharmacological activity of the GF extract against an ecotoxicological industrial chemical, bisphenol A (BPA) in normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs), was investigated. GF extract containing naringin, hesperidin, chlorogenic acid, and kaempferol showed an inhibitory effect on cell death and inflammation induced by BPA in the NHDFs. For the cell death caused by BPA, GF extract inhibited the production of reactive oxygen species responsible for the unique activation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase. In addition, GF extract attenuated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-2, and cleaved caspase-3) and the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β by the suppression of the redox-sensitive transcription factor, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in BPA-treated NHDFs. For the inflammation triggered by BPA, GF extract blocked the inflammasome-mediated caspase-1 activation that leads to the secretion of IL-1β protein. These results indicate that the GF extract is a functional antioxidant that prevents skin fibroblastic pyroptosis induced by BPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to prepare mucus-penetrating inhalable microparticles for dry powder inhalers and to evaluate their applicability in an asthma-induced rat model. Microparticles were prepared from water solutions containing tiotropium bromide, L-leucine, and sodium glycocholate (NaGc) as permeation enhancers using the spray drying method. Four formulations (SDL1, SDL2, SDL3, and SDL4) were used, depending on the various NaGc concentrations. Tiotropium microparticles were characterized by standard methods. Additionally, an asthma-induced rat model was used to confirm the effects of the formulations on lung function. Tiotropium microparticles with NaGc resulted in formulations with a more corrugated morphology and smaller particle size distribution than those without NaGc. SDL 1 had a rough surface with irregular morphology, and SDL 2, 3, and 4 had a corrugated morphology. All SDL formulations had an aerodynamic size of <3 µm. The microparticles with a corrugated morphology aerosolized better than SDL1 microparticles. The apparent permeability coefficient (Papp) values of SDL3 and SDL4 were significantly higher than those for raw tiotropium. In an in vivo study using an asthma-induced rat model, the specific airway resistance (Sraw), airway wall thickness, and mean alveolus size recovered to those of the negative control group in the SDL4 formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esomeprazole magnesium (EMP) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces acid secretion. EMP has a short plasma half-life (approximately 1.3 h); hence, nocturnal acid breakthrough (NAB) frequently occurs, disturbing the patient's nighttime comfort and sleep. We aimed to develop a novel esomeprazole magnesium-loaded dual-release mini-tablet polycap (DR polycap) with a prolonged onset time and improved bioavailability to prevent NAB. The formulation of the EPM mini-tablet core resulted in rapid drug release. The core was coated with an inner coating and an Eudragit® L30D-55 aqueous dispersion coating to prepare the first-release mini-tablet. In addition, the core was coated with an inner coating and an aqueous dispersion of Eudragit® S100 and Eudragit® L100 coating to prepare the second-release mini-tablet. Each mini-tablet type was characterized using an in vitro dissolution test and microscopic examination. After testing, 10 of each mini-tablets were placed together in hard capsules to form DR polycaps. The combination of mini-tablets was optimized via in vitro release testing and in vivo pharmacokinetic studies. The AUC0–24h of the DR polycap was similar to that of a comparable commercial product (Nexium®); Cmax was lower by approximately 50%, and Tmax was extended by approximately 1.7-fold. In conclusion, DR polycap is an alternative to commercial products with improved NAB and dosing compliance because of its dual-release characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terpenoids are naturally occurring compounds involved in respiration, photosynthesis, membrane fluidity, and pathogen interactions and are classified according to the structure of their carbon skeleton. Although most terpenoids possess pharmacological activity, knowledge about terpenoid metabolism in medicinal plants is insufficient. Rehmannia glutinosa (R. glutinosa) is a traditional herb that is widely used in East Asia and has been reported to contain various terpenoids. In this study, we performed a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of terpenoid metabolism in R. glutinosa using two RNA sequencing platforms: Illumina and PacBio. The results show that the sterol, saponin, iridoid, and carotenoid pathways are active in R. glutinosa. Sterol and saponin biosynthesis were mevalonate pathway dependent, whereas iridoid and carotenoid biosynthesis were methylerythritol 4-phosphate pathway dependent. In addition, we found that the homologous genes of key enzymes involved in terpenoid metabolism were expressed differentially and that the differential expression of these genes was associated with specific terpenoid biosynthesis. The different expression of homologous genes encoding acetyl-CoA acetyltransferase, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, mevalonate kinase, mevalonate diphosphate decarboxylase, farnesyl pyrophosphate synthase, squalene synthase, and squalene epoxidase was associated with sterol and saponin biosynthesis. Homologous genes encoding 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate synthase were also differentially expressed and were associated with carotenoid and iridoid biosynthesis. These results suggest that the biosynthesis of specific terpenoids can be regulated by the homologous of key enzymes involved in plant terpenoid metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chaetosphaeriaceae is a genera-rich and highly diverse group of fungi with a worldwide distribution in terrestrial and aquatic habitats. Eight fresh collections of Chaetosphaeriaceae were obtained during investigations of hyaline-spored hyphomycetes in China and Thailand. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of a combined LSU and ITS sequence dataset, Chaetosphaeria obovoidea, Codinaea aseptata, Codinaeella hyalina, Dictyochaeta guizhouensis and Paragaeumannomyces guttulatus were introduced as new species, Codinaea terminalis was reported as new host record, and Codinaea dwaya and Phialosporostilbe scutiformis were introduced as new collections. Phylogenetic analysis in this study revealed that Chaetosphaeria was polyphyletic. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of new taxa and identified species are provided, as well as an updated phylogenetic tree to confirm the placements of these eight new collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The south coast of Korea is vulnerable to coastal disasters, such as storm surges, high waves, wave overtopping, and coastal flooding caused by typhoons. It is imperative to predict such disastrous events accurately in advance, which requires accurate meteorological forcing for coastal ocean modeling. In this study, to acquire accurate meteorological data as important forcing variables for the prediction of storm surges and waves, we examined the forecast performance and applicability of a next-generation global weather/climate prediction model, the Model for Prediction Across Scales (MPAS). We compared the modeled surface pressure and wind with observations on the south coast of Korea for three typhoons that damaged Korea in 2020—Bavi, Maysak, and Haishen—and investigated the accuracy of these observations with the MPAS prediction. Those meteorological forcing variables were then used in the tightly coupled tide-surge-wave model, Advanced CIRCulation (ADCIRC) and the Simulating Waves Nearshore (SWAN) for the simulation of a typhoon-induced storm surge and wave. We also performed the hindcast of the wave and storm surges using a parametric tropical cyclone model, the best-track-based Generalized Asymmetric Holland Model (GAHM) embedded in ADCIRC+SWAN, to better understand the forecast performance and applicability of MPAS. We compared the forecast results of the typhoon-induced wave and storm surges with their hindcast in terms of the time-series and statistical indices for both significant wave height and storm surge height and found that wave and storm surge prediction forced by MPAS forecast provides a comparable accuracy with the hindcast. Comparable results of MPAS forcing with that of hindcast using best track information are encouraging because ADCIRC+SWAN forced by MPAS forecast with an at most four-day lead time still provides a reasonable prediction of wave and storm surges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various studies addressing the increasing problem of hair loss, using natural products with few side effects, have been conducted. 5-bromo-3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (BDB) exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in mouse models of atopic dermatitis and inhibited UVB-induced oxidative stress in keratinocytes. Here, we investigated its stimulating effect and the underlying mechanism of action on hair growth using rat vibrissa follicles and dermal papilla cells (DPCs), required for the regulation of hair cycle and length. BDB increased the length of hair fibers in rat vibrissa follicles and the proliferation of DPCs, along with causing changes in the levels of cell cycle-related proteins. We investigated whether BDB could trigger anagen-activating signaling pathways, such as the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and autophagy in DPCs. BDB induces activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway through the phosphorylation of GSG3β and β-catenin. BDB increased the levels of autophagic vacuoles and autophagy regulatory proteins Atg7, Atg5, Atg16L, and LC3B. We also investigated whether BDB inhibits the TGF-β pathway, which promotes transition to the catagen phase. BDB inhibited the phosphorylation of Smad2 induced by TGF-β1. Thus, BDB can promote hair growth by modulating anagen signaling by activating Wnt/β-catenin and autophagy pathways and inhibiting the TGF-β pathway in DPCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We aimed to identify chironomid species collected from four large rivers in South Korea, construct a corresponding DNA barcode library, and examine the distribution and community structure of the identified riverine species. Adult chironomids were identified morphologically, and their COI nucleotide sequences were used to verify species identification and construct a DNA barcode library. The resulting COI library effectively discriminated >90% of riverine Chironomidae in South Korea. The distributional aspects of chironomid species in the four large rivers of South Korea are also discussed. Most large rivers in South Korea run through major cities, which often experience many environmental problems, including outbreaks of non-biting midges (Diptera: Chironomidae). However, chironomid species inhabiting large rivers have not been thoroughly investigated. We aimed to identify chironomid species collected from the four main large rivers in South Korea, construct a corresponding DNA barcode library, and examine the distribution and community structure of the identified riverine species. Adult chironomids were collected from nine sites along the rivers by using sweep nets and light traps during June and August 2015. Adults were morphologically identified, and COI nucleotide sequences were generated to verify the species identification and construct a DNA barcode library. The distribution and community structure of the identified species were also analyzed. A total of 124 COI sequences were established from 37 species belonging to 19 genera, and the resulting DNA barcode library effectively discriminated >90% of riverine Chironomidae in South Korea. Ten species, which are considered indicator species for large rivers, were collected from all four rivers. In addition, members of the subfamily Chironominae were collected more frequently than members of other subfamilies, with Tanytarsus tamagotoi being the most common and widespread chironomid species in South Korea. The DNA barcode library developed in this study will facilitate environmental studies of large rivers, such as biomonitoring chironomid larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the factors that influence the dynamic characteristics of machining systems is the cutting tool. Cutting tools are very diverse, and receptance coupling substructure analysis (RCSA) is essential for analyzing the dynamic characteristics of each tool. For RCSA, a full receptance matrix of the equipment and tools is essential. In this study, rotational degree-of-freedom receptance was estimated and analyzed using translational receptance. Displacement/moment receptance was analyzed according to the distance of the response point using the first-and second-order finite difference methods. The rotation/moment receptance was estimated according to the distance of the response point. Rotation/moment receptance was analyzed using Schmitz's method and compensation strategies. The limitations of these strategies were analyzed, and the rotation/moment receptance for the beam under free-free boundary conditions was predicted using the second compensation strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Korean people are exposed to stress due to the constant competitive structure caused by rapid industrialization. As a result, there is a need for ways that can effectively manage stress and help improve quality of life. Therefore, this study proposes an activity recommendation model using rank correlation for chronic stress management. Using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, the proposed model finds the correlations between users' Positive Activity for Stress Management (PASM), Negative Activity for Stress Management (NASM), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Spearman's rank correlation coefficient improves the accuracy of recommendations by putting a basic rank value in a missing value to solve the sparsity problem and cold-start problem. For the performance evaluation of the proposed model, F-measure is applied using the average precision and recall after five times of recommendations for 20 users. As a result, the proposed method has better performance than other models, since it recommends activities with the use of the correlation between PASM and NASM. The proposed activity recommendation model for stress management makes it possible to manage user's stress effectively by lowering the user's PSS using correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-hydrogen-containing amorphous silicon (a-Si) was deposited at a low temperature of 80 °C using a very high frequency (VHF at 162 MHz) plasma system with multi-split electrodes. Using the 162 MHz VHF plasma system, a high deposition rate of a-Si with a relatively high deposition uniformity of 6.7% could be obtained due to the formation of high-ion-density (>1011 cm−3) plasma with SiH4 and a lack of standing waves by using small multi-split electrodes. The increase in the radio frequency (RF) power decreased the hydrogen content in the deposited silicon film and, at a high RF power of 2000 W, a-Si with a low hydrogen content of 3.78% could be deposited without the need for a dehydrogenation process. The crystallization of the a-Si by ultraviolet (UV) irradiation showed that the a-Si can be crystallized with a crystallinity of 0.8 and a UV energy of 80 J without dehydrogenation. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy showed that the a-Si deposited by the VHF plasma was a very small nanocrystalline-like a-Si and the crystalline size significantly grew with the UV irradiation. We believe that the VHF (162 MHz) multi-split plasma system can be used for a low-cost low-temperature polysilicon (LTPS) process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In metal product manufacturing, additive manufacturing (AM) is a method that has the advantage of fabricating complex shapes and customized production, unlike existing machining methods. However, owing to the characteristics of the AM process, anisotropy of macrostructure occurs because of various causes such as the scan direction, melting, fusion, and cooling of the powdered material. The macrostructure anisotropy is realized from the scan direction, and when a single layer is stacked in one direction, it is expressed as orthogonal anisotropy. Here, the classical lamination theory is applied to simply calculate the individual orthotropic layers by superimposing them. Through this, the authors analyzed whether the mechanical properties of the product are isotropically expressed with a periodic layer rotation strategy. To determine if the mechanical properties can be reasonably considered to be isotropic, a shock absorber mount for a vehicle was manufactured by AM. The tensile and vibration test performed on the product was compared with the finite element analysis and experimental results. As a result of the comparison, it was confirmed that the macroscopically of the product was considered isotropic as the load-displacement diagram and the fracture location coincided, as well as the natural frequency and mode shape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graph: Figure 2 X-ray diffraction patterns of raw materials and prepared lidocaine ointments. Preparation and In Vivo Evaluation of a Lidocaine Self-Nanoemulsifying Ointment with Glycerol Monostearate for Local Delivery. Reference 1 Kang J.-H., Yoo K.-H., Park H.-Y., Hyun S.-M., Han S.-D., Kim D.-W., Park C.-W. Preparation and in vivo evaluation of a lidocaine self-nanoemulsifying ointment with glycerol monostearate for local delivery. [Extracted from the article]