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Aims: To evaluate the long‐term safety and efficacy of enavogliflozin monotherapy (0.3 mg/day) in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods: Following a 24‐week randomized, double‐blind treatment period with enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day (n = 77) or placebo (n = 69), consenting participants received enavogliflozin 0.3 mg/day for an additional 28 weeks during an open‐label extension (OLE) period. The safety and efficacy of enavogliflozin were assessed at Week 52. Results: A total of 37 participants continued enavogliflozin (maintenance group), and 26 participants switched from placebo to enavogliflozin (switch group). No additional adverse drug reactions related to enavogliflozin were observed during the OLE period. At Week 52, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose were significantly lower than at the baseline, by 0.9% and 24.9 mg/dL, respectively, in the maintenance group (p < 0.0001 for both), and by 0.7% and 18.0 mg/dL, respectively, in the switch group (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.002). The proportions of participants reaching HbA1c 7.0% (53 mmol/mol) at Week 52 were 69.4% in the maintenance group and 65.4% in the switch group. A significant increase in urine glucose‐to‐creatinine ratio was observed at Week 52, by 84.9 g/g and 67.1 g/g in the maintenance and switch groups, respectively (p < 0.0001 for both). Body weight in both groups decreased significantly (p < 0.0001) from baseline to Week 52, by 3.5 kg and 3.8 kg in the maintenance and switch groups, respectively. Conclusions: Enavogliflozin 0.3 mg monotherapy provides long‐term glycaemic control in T2DM and is safe and well tolerated during a 52‐week treatment period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), a conductive polymer, has gained popularity as the channel layer in organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) due to its high conductivity and straightforward processing. However, difficulties arise in controlling its conductivity through gate voltage, presenting a challenge. To address this issue, aromatic amidine base, diazabicyclo[4.3.0]non‐5‐ene (DBN), is used to stabilize the doping state of the PEDOT chain through a reliable chemical de‐doping process. Furthermore, the addition of the proton‐penetrable material Nafion to the PEDOT:PSS channel layer induces phase separation between the substances. By utilizing a solution containing both PEDOT:PSS and Nafion as the channel layer of OECTs, the efficiency of ion movement into the channel from the electrolyte is enhanced, resulting in improved OECT performance. The inclusion of Nafion in the OECTs' channel layer modifies ion movement dynamics, allowing for the adjustment of synaptic properties such as pulse‐paired facilitation, memory level, short‐term plasticity, and long‐term plasticity. This research aims to introduce new possibilities in the field of neuromorphic computing and contribute to biomimetic technology through the enhancement of electronic component performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Patients with tuberculosis and diabetes have a higher risk of unfavourable anti‐tuberculosis treatment outcomes. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of various diabetes statuses on the outcomes of patients with pulmonary tuberculosis. Methods: Among the patients with pulmonary tuberculosis enrolled in the Korea Tuberculosis Cohort (KTBC) registry and the multicentre prospective cohort study of pulmonary tuberculosis (COSMOTB), those with diabetes and complicated diabetes were identified. The primary and secondary outcomes were unfavourable outcomes and mortality, respectively. The effect of diabetes and complicated diabetes on the outcomes was assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Using COSMOTB, subgroup analyses were performed to assess the association between various diabetes statuses and outcomes. Results: In the KTBC, diabetes (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.64–2.26) and complicated diabetes (aOR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.67–2.30) were significantly associated with unfavourable outcomes, consistent with the COSMOTB data analysis. Based on subgroup analysis, untreated diabetes at baseline was an independent risk factor for unfavourable outcomes (aOR = 2.72, 95% CI = 1.26–5.61). Prediabetes and uncontrolled diabetes increased unfavourable outcomes and mortality without statistical significance. Conclusion: Untreated and complicated diabetes at the time of tuberculosis diagnosis increases the risk of unfavourable outcomes and mortality. The effect of various stages of diabetis mellitus (DM) on the outcomes of patients with tuberculosis (TB) was analysed. Untreated and complicated DM at the time of TB diagnosis increased the risk of unfavourable outcomes. See relatededitorial [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarette smoke induces an inflammatory response in the lungs by recruiting inflammatory cells, leading to lung diseases such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pulmonary fibrosis. Existing inhalation exposure methods for assessing the adverse effects of cigarette smoke require expensive equipment and are labor‐intensive. Therefore, we attempted to develop a novel method to assess these adverse effects using intratracheal instillation (ITI) of whole cigarette smoke condensate (WCSC). The WCSC (0, 5, 10, or 20 mg/mL) was administered by ITI once daily for 6 or 12 days using an automatic video instillator. Repeated WCSC ITI increased the lung weight, and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), neutrophil, and lymphocyte levels within bronchoalveolar lavage fluid compared to the control. In the histopathological analysis of the lung tissue, a mild inflammatory response was observed in the 6 and 12 days 20 mg/mL WCSC exposure groups. The genome‐wide RNA‐seq expression patterns revealed that inflammatory and immune response‐related genes, such as the chemokine signaling pathway, Th1/Th2 cell differentiation, and cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction, were employed following WCSC exposure. In addition, MCP‐1 was time‐dependent and increased in the 10 mg/mL exposure group compared to the control group. These results suggested that the WCSC might induce the potential pulmonary inflammatory response. Furthermore, we proposed that ITI may be a rapid and effective method of evaluating the adverse effects of WCSC within a short exposure period (less than 2 weeks), and it can be used to evaluate cigarette inhalation toxicity studies as an alternative method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with locally advanced, unresectable, non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving definitive concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) benefit from durvalumab consolidation therapy. However, predictive factors for early relapse during durvalumab maintenance have not yet been identified. Methods: The present study included the lung cancer cohort of the Catholic Medical Centers at the Catholic University of Korea from January 2018 to December 2021. A total of 51 NSCLC patients treated with durvalumab consolidation therapy after definitive CCRT were included in the analysis. Early relapse was defined as patients experiencing relapse within 6 months of starting initial durvalumab therapy. Results: Among the 51 patients, 15 (29.4%) relapsed during the study period. Median time from initial therapy of durvalumab to progression was 451.00 ± 220.87 days (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.10–883.90) in overall patients. In multivariate analysis, younger age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.792; 95% CI: 0.642–0.977; p = 0.030), higher pack‐years (aOR, 1.315; 95% CI: 1.058–1.635; p = 0.014), non‐COPD (aOR, 0.004; 95% CI: 0.000–0.828; p = 0.004) and anemia (aOR, 234.30; 95% CI: 1.212–45280.24; p = 0.042), were independent predictive factors for early relapse during durvalumab consolidation therapy. Conclusion: Younger age, higher number of pack‐years, non‐COPD, and anemia were independent predictive factors for early relapse during durvalumab consolidation therapy in patients with unresectable stage III NSCLC after definitive CCRT. Careful patient selection and clinical attention are needed for high‐risk individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of enavogliflozin, a newly developed sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, with placebo in Korean patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: Patients with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.0‐10.0%, entered a 2‐week placebo run‐in period, and were randomized to receive once‐daily enavogliflozin (0.1, 0.3 or 0.5 mg) or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in HbA1c from baseline at week 12. Results: Overall, 194 patients were included in the full analysis set [placebo, n = 46; enavogliflozin (0.1 mg, n = 49; 0.3 mg, n = 50; 0.5 mg, n = 49)]. Patients receiving 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 mg enavogliflozin showed significantly reduced HbA1c compared with those receiving placebo at week 12 (−0.79%, −0.89%, −0.92% and −0.08%, respectively; p <.001 vs. placebo). Mean changes in fasting plasma glucose from baseline at week 12 were −30.5, −31.1, −35.0 and 4.9 mg/dl in patients receiving enavogliflozin doses and placebo, respectively. The proportion of patients achieving HbA1c <7.0% at week 12 was significantly higher in the three enavogliflozin groups than in the placebo group (42.9%, 44.0%, 61.2% and 17.4%, respectively). A higher proportion of patients showed HbA1c reduction by >0.5% after receiving enavogliflozin doses than those receiving placebo (61.2%, 72.0%, 65.3% and 26.1%, respectively). There were no significant differences in incidences of adverse events of hypoglycaemia and genital infection between the groups. Conclusions: Once‐daily enavogliflozin monotherapy for 12 weeks is an effective, safe, and well‐tolerated treatment for Korean patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated whether 4-hydroxycinnamic acid (HA) has a palliative effect on asthmatic inflammatory responses using a mouse model of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced allergic asthma. The mice were divided into five groups, each consisting of seven females (normal control phosphate-buffered saline); OVA (OVA sensitization/challenge); dexamethasone (DEX, OVA sensitization/challenge + dexamethasone 3 mg/kg); HA-10 and HA-20 OVA sensitization/challenge + HA 10 and 20 mg/kg, respectively). Mice treated with HA showed a reduction in airway hyperresponsiveness and in the number of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) compared with asthmatic control. HA treatment also reduced the levels of interleukin (IL)-5 and IL-13 in BALF and of OVA-specific immunoglobulin E in the serum compared with asthmatic control. HA treatment relieved airway inflammation and mucus overproduction caused by OVA exposure. Additionally, HA inhibited the increases in levels of nuclear factor kappa B, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2 that normally occur after OVA exposure. HA treatment also reduced the activity and protein level of matrix metalloproteinase-9. Taken together, HA effectively suppressed asthmatic airway inflammation and mucus production caused by OVA exposure. These findings indicate that HA has the potential to be used as a therapeutic agent for asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various single‐pill combinations (SPCs) have been introduced to improve drug compliance and clinical efficacy. However, there is a lack of real‐world evidence regarding the effectiveness of these SPCs for hypertension. This study evaluated the real‐world clinical efficacy and safety of amlodipine/losartan‐based SPC therapies in patients with hypertension in a real‐world setting. A total of 15 538 patients treated with amlodipine/losartan‐based SPCs [amlodipine + losartan (AL), amlodipine + losartan + rosuvastatin (ALR), and amlodipine + losartan + chlorthalidone (ALC)] were selected from the database of three tertiary hospitals in Korea. The efficacy endpoints were target blood pressure (BP) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) achievement rates. Safety was evaluated based on laboratory parameters. Drug adherence was defined as the proportion of medication days covered (PDC). The target BP attainment rate was above 90% and was similar among the three groups. Although many patients in the AL and ALC groups took statins, the target LDL‐C attainment rate was significantly higher in the ALR group than in the AL and ALC groups. Safety endpoints were not significantly different among the groups, except serum uric acid level and incidence rate of new‐onset hyperuricemia, which were significantly lower in the AL and ALR groups than in the ALC group. The PDC was > 90% in all groups. In the real‐world hypertensive patients, amlodipine/losartan‐based SPC therapy demonstrated good target BP achievement rates. Especially, rosuvastatin‐combination SPC showed better target LDL‐C goal achievement rate compared to the other SPCs. All three amlodipine/losartan‐based SPC had excellent drug adherence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: asthma; genetics; microbiota; smoking EN asthma genetics microbiota smoking 3217 3220 4 10/04/21 20211001 NES 211001 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS This work was supported by the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) grant funded by the Korean government, Ministry of Science and ICT (grant No: 2020R1F1A1075956), and by the Brain Pool Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF) funded by Ministry of Science and ICT (grant No: 2019H1D3A2A02102333). Airway microbiota in severe asthma and relationship to asthma severity and phenotypes. Genetic variants in the TLR-related pathway and smoking exposure alter the upper airway microbiota in adult asthmatic patients. [Extracted from the article]

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) with nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) feature excellent device performance and device stability. However, they are facing problems when the amine‐rich polyelectrolytes are used as cathode interfacial layers. In this work, a small molecule, ethanedithiol (EDT) at the polyethyleneimine ethoxylated (PEIE)/active layer interface is inserted for mitigating the undesirable reaction between amine‐rich groups and electron‐acceptor moieties in NFA. The main role of EDT is to passivate the PEIE surface and prevent electron flow to NFA and the unwanted reaction can be mitigated. It improves the performance of OPV devices by reducing the work function, decreasing trap‐assisted recombination, and improving electron‐mobility. As a result, the flexible device with the PEIE interfacial layer with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.20% can be improved to 10.11% after the inclusion of EDT. Moreover, EDT‐modified device can retain 98.18% after it is bent for 200 cycles and can maintain 80.83% of its initial PCE under continuous light illuminated in ambient conditions without any encapsulation. Based on these findings, the proposed strategy constitutes a crucial step toward highly efficient flexible OPVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stretchable organic electronics open opportunities for novel applications in next‐generation intelligent electronics, such as human‐friendly, skin‐attachable, and implantable devices. Stretchable transparent electrodes with appropriate electrical, mechanical, and optical properties as well as high conformability to curved surfaces and human skin are key components of wearable and implantable devices. Herein, a silver nanowire (AgNW)‐embedded chitosan biopolymer hybrid film is presented as a high‐performance stretchable transparent electrode. The introduction of an organic surface modifier and embedding the AgNW network results in remarkably improved adhesion between the nanowires and substrate; consequently, the electrical properties and mechanical performance of the stretchable films are improved simultaneously. The fabricated hybrid films show high transmittance (89.0% at 550 nm), low sheet resistance (8.4 ohm sq−1), and limited resistance change under tensile strains. Moreover, these stretchable transparent electrodes with versatile applicability are integrated into multifunctional stretchable electronic devices such as heaters, strain sensors, and light‐emitting devices, which show excellent thermal, strain sensing, and light‐emitting properties, respectively. In addition, they conform to curved surfaces or human skin and maintain their mechanical robustness. The proposed strategy offers new opportunities for stretchable and biocompatible organic electronics, particularly for skin‐attachable, visually imperceptible thermal management devices, strain sensors, and light‐emitting devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transparent organic light‐emitting diodes (TOLEDs) are exciting next‐generation electronic devices that can be embedded and integrated into walls, windows, head‐up panels in commercial and domestic buildings, cars, planes, and other segments of the consumer goods sector. TOLEDs are also fundamental components for the realization of the stacked OLEDs for various industrial and research applications. Furthermore, futuristic smart wearables for clothing as well as medical purposes will also benefit remarkably from the development of TOLEDs. However, the efficiency of TOLEDs is significantly lower than that of their opaque counterparts. The achievement of high‐performance TOLEDs is directly dependent on the properties of the chosen electrode materials as well as the used light extraction techniques. In this review, the reported perspectives of TOLEDs are discussed along with their types, design, and architectures, applied TOLED materials and properties, and the application fields of these transparent devices. The performance of the electrode materials and the commonly used light extraction methods are reviewed in detail as well. The main purpose is to shed light on some of the effective TOLED approaches and the underlying reasons for the frequently encountered issues in these diodes. Auspicious novel fabrication techniques as well as device structures are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The structural adaptation in MgSiO3 melts under compression up to 130 GPa is the key to revealing the origins of the pronounced negative buoyancy of the melts at the core‐mantle boundary (CMB). A full understanding of the melt densification requires study of the pressure‐induced changes in the bonding configuration around oxygen at the CMB, which has proven to be difficult to measure. Here, the experimental breakthrough in O K‐edge inelastic X‐ray scattering enables collection of the spectra of MgSiO3 glasses up to ~130 GPa, along with ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, revealing the electronic bonding transitions around heavily compressed oxygen. The spectral results indicate the emergence of denser network structures around oxygen, stemming from contractions in the Mg‐O and O‐O distances associated with flexible topological and short‐range rearrangements around Si. The results unveil the electronic structure and thus the nature of densification in dense partial melts at the CMB. Plain Language Summary: A thin ultralow velocity zone at the bottom of mantle is characterized by reduced seismic wave velocities and enhanced density, suggesting the possible presence of molten silicates at a depth of ~2,850 km (~130 GPa of pressure). How the melts densify near the core‐mantle boundary is unclear. Because oxygen occupies the major volume fraction of silicates, the melt densification is dominated by the reorganization of oxygen during compression. However, the oxygen bonding environments in MgSiO3 melt—a model mantle melt—near the core‐mantle boundary are unknown. Here, the inelastic X‐ray scattering spectra of MgSiO3 glasses and liquids up to ~130 GPa revealed the electronic bonding transitions around compressed oxygen that are not observed at low pressures and substantially differ from those in the crystalline MgSiO3 bridgmanite. The spectral results indicate the pressure‐induced emergence of denser network structures around oxygen, stemming from gradual contractions in the Mg‐O and O‐O distances associated with flexible topological and short‐range rearrangements around Si. The densification around oxygen near megabar pressures potentially contributes to the gravitational stabilization of the complex partial melts in the deeper part of the mantle toward ultralow velocity zone. Key Points: The O K‐edge inelastic X‐ray scattering spectra of MgSiO3 glass up to 130 GPa revealed the bonding transitions around oxygen at CMBThe emergence of dense oxygen networks near megabar pressure stems from contractions in the Mg‐O and O‐O distances, unique to MgSiO3 meltsThe results provide insights into densification mechanism of dense partial melts anticipated to comprise the ULVZ at the CMB [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a fixed‐dose combination (FDC) of gemigliptin and rosuvastatin in patients with type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia. Research Design and Methods: A total of 33 hospitals in Korea participated in this randomized, double‐blind trial of diabetic patients with dyslipidaemia. A total of 290 participants were randomly assigned at a 1:1:1 ratio to receive an FDC of gemigliptin (50 mg) and rosuvastatin (20 mg) (GEMI/ROSU FDC group), gemigliptin (50 mg) (GEMI group) or rosuvastatin (20 mg) (ROSU group). Rosuvastatin was up‐titrated from 5 to 20 mg/d throughout the study period. Primary efficacy measures were changes in HbA1c and LDL‐C from baseline to Week 24 between the GEMI/ROSU FDC and ROSU groups and between the GEMI/ROSU FDC and GEMI groups, respectively. Secondary efficacy measures were changes in HbA1c and LDL‐C between the GEMI/ROSU FDC and GEMI groups and between the GEMI/ROSU FDC and ROSU groups, respectively. Results: After 24 weeks of treatment, a significant reduction in HbA1c from baseline was noted in the GEMI/ROSU FDC group (−0.81% of LS mean; P < 0.0001 vs ROSU group), in addition to a significant reduction in LDL‐C concentration (−51.9% of LS mean percentage changes, P < 0.0001 vs GEMI group). HbA1c was significantly reduced from baseline in both the GEMI/ROSU FDC and GEMI groups, but the reduction in HbA1c was significantly greater in the GEMI group than in the GEMI/ROSU FDC group, despite receiving the same dose of gemigliptin. The decrease in LDL‐C over time was similar between the GEMI/ROSU FDC and ROSU groups. There were no significant differences in adverse events among the groups. Conclusion: The FDC of gemigliptin and rosuvastatin is safe and is effective in reducing both blood glucose and LDL‐C levels; thus, it could be a good therapeutic choice for type 2 diabetic patients with dyslipidaemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a public health concern worldwide. HEV strains have been isolated from several animal species, some of which induce zoonosis. Recently, the isolation of HEV from rabbits was reported. Here, the partial capsid gene (320 bp) of HEV was detected in rabbit feces via reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Rabbit HEV was found in two of six rabbit farms and 17 of 264 rabbit fecal samples (6.4%). A phylogenetic analysis of the partial capsid gene classified the 17 HEV isolates into the putative rabbit HEV clade. A full genomic sequence, KOR-Rb-1, was obtained from one rabbit HEV isolate by 5′ and 3′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends-PCR and RT-PCR, and comprised 7275 bp excluding the 3′ poly(A) tail. It shared 77.5-86.8%, 86.6%, and 80.2-84.3% nucleotide identities with rabbit HEV isolates from China, the US, and France, respectively. It also shared 72.3-73.0%, 71.4%, 76.7-78.3%, 72.8-73.3%, and 47.1-47.2% nucleotide identities with representative strains of HEV-1, HEV-2, HEV-3, HEV-4, and avian HEV, respectively. A full-genome phylogenetic analysis classified KOR-Rb-1 into the provisional rabbit HEV clade. This isolate could be used to study the pathogenesis and zoonotic potential of rabbit HEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) are promising light harvesting materials for realization of solution processible, highly efficient multipurpose photovoltaics (PVs). Here, PbS CQD solar cells are reported with improved certified power conversion efficiency performance of 10.4% by simply controlling protic solvents (alcohols) in ligand exchange process. With shorter chain alcohols, the mobility of charge carriers is an order-of-magnitude improved due to the enhanced interparticle coupling; on the other hand, excessive removal of passivating ligands by very protic solvent, methanol (MeOH) induced undesirable traps on CQD surface. Consequently, it has been found that high performance CQD PVs require a solvent engineering for balance between native leaving ligands with incoming ligands during ligand exchange process for well-controlled surfaces of CQDs and enhanced carrier concentration of conductive CQD films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the simple and efficient fabrication process of porous poly imide films for the light extraction layer of OLEDs. With a single coating process and a conventional immersion precipitation method, 1.4 times higher values of power efficiency and external quantum efficiency were achieved than the reference device. Also, we demonstrate the angular distribution of emitted light can be controlled through the process condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims The clinical implication of the inferior vena cava collapsibility index ( IVCCI) has not been well evaluated in patients with various cardiovascular diseases. Method and results The relationships between clinical characteristics and echocardiographic indicators of the systemic intravascular volume status [ IVCCI; the ratio of the early transmitral and early myocardial diastolic velocities (E/Em)] were evaluated at baseline, and the clinical status during follow-up was compared across the IVCCI levels. Among 1166 patients (mean age=63.8±13.4 years), 934, 171, and 61 had high (≥50%), intermediate (25%-50%), and low (<25%) IVCCIs, respectively. Age-, sex-, and body mass index-adjusted serum creatinine ( sCr) levels were highest in patients with low IVCCI ( P=.002) and E/Em >15 ( P<.001). During follow-up (1108±463 days), 67 patients died, and 38 of these deaths were cardiovascular related. Age, body mass index, heart failure ( HF), sCr levels, and a low IVCCI (vs high IVCCI: hazard ratio [ HR]=3.193, 95% confidence interval [ CI]=1.297-7.857, P=.012) were associated with all-cause mortality in multivariable analysis. HF, diuretic use, and a low IVCCI (vs high IVCCI: HR=4.428, 95% CI=1.406-13.104, P=.007) were significantly associated with cardiovascular mortality. Conclusion A low IVCCI was significantly associated with reduced renal function and was an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes, regardless of underlying cardiovascular disease and renal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to investigate the association between brachial pulse pressure (PP) and the presence/extent of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) in men and women. Study data were obtained from a nation-wide registry composed of 632 patients (173 men and 459 women, 58.1±10.5 years) with suspected CAD who underwent invasive coronary angiography. PP was higher in patients with obstructive CAD (≥50% stenosis) than those without CAD in both sexes (P=.032 in men; P<.001 in women). However, PP increased proportionally with the increasing number of obstructed coronary arteries in women (P<.001) but not in men (P=.070). Multiple logistic-regression analyses demonstrated that higher PP (≥50.5 mm Hg) was an independent factor for determining obstructive CAD even after controlling for potential confounders in women (odds ratio, 2.83; 95% confidence interval, 1.40-5.73; P=.004). These results were consistent in 173 selected women matched with 173 men based on age and CAD severity. In conclusion, the association between brachial PP and obstructive CAD was more pronounced in women than in men. Brachial PP can be a simple and useful indicator of CAD especially in women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) films as transparent electrodes for organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are doped with a new solvent 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone (DMI) and are optimized using solvent post-treatment. The DMI doped PEDOT:PSS films show significantly enhanced conductivities up to 812.1 S cm−1. The sheet resistance of the PEDOT:PSS films doped with DMI is further reduced by various solvent post-treatment. The effect of solvent post-treatment on DMI doped PEDOT:PSS films is investigated and is shown to reduce insulating PSS in the conductive films. The solvent posttreated PEDOT:PSS films are successfully employed as transparent electrodes in white OLEDs. It is shown that the efficiency of OLEDs with the optimized DMI doped PEDOT:PSS films is higher than that of reference OLEDs doped with a conventional solvent (ethylene glycol). The results present that the optimized PEDOT:PSS films with the new solvent of DMI can be a promising transparent electrode for low-cost, efficient ITO-free white OLEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wet chemical synthesis of covalent III-V colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) has been challenging because of uncontrolled surfaces and a poor understanding of surface-ligand interactions. We report a simple acid-free approach to synthesize highly crystalline indium phosphide CQDs in the unique tetrahedral shape by using tris(dimethylamino) phosphine and indium trichloride as the phosphorus and indium precursors, dissolved in oleylamine. Our chemical analyses indicate that both the oleylamine and chloride ligands participate in the stabilization of tetrahedral-shaped InP CQDs covered with cation-rich (111) facets. Based on density functional theory calculations, we propose that fractional dangling electrons of the In-rich (111) surface could be completely passivated by three halide and one primary amine ligands per the (2×2) surface unit, satisfying the 8-electron rule. This halide-amine co-passivation strategy will benefit the synthesis of stable III-V CQDs with controlled surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In general, volatile organic compounds in ambient air are quantified by following a well-defined standard calibration procedure using a gas-/liquid-phase standard. If the liquid standard is analyzed by a thermal desorption, the solvent effect is unavoidable through the alteration of breakthrough properties or retention times. To learn more about the variables of the thermal desorption-based analysis, the effect of pre-purge conditions was evaluated for 18 volatile organic compounds with different types of sorbent tube materials by fixing standard volume (1 μL) and flow rate (100 mL/min). The gas phase calibration was also carried out as reference for the non-solvent effect. A single tube filled with Tenax TA exhibited the least solvent effect with the short pre-purge (1 min), while being subject to the breakthrough at or above 10 min pre-purge. For a three-bed sorbent tube with Carboxen 1000, at least 10 min of pre-purge was needed for the compounds with a retention time close to methanol (e.g., propanal). Another three-bed tube with Carbopack X reduced the solvent effect efficiently for a short pre-purge (2 min) without the breakthrough. As such, the solvent effect can be adjusted by the proper control of the sorbent tube application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on a study which examines ultratransparent poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate)(PEDOT:PSS) and silver (Ag) grid hybrid electrodes for organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells. An oxygen plasma etching process was performed to prepare the PEDOT:PSS thin films. It shows the potential of hybrid electrodes for effective OPV cells.

Conventional planar organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) suffer from poor light extraction due to the total internal reflection at the waveguided interfaces. Therefore, the development of efficient light extraction structures is of great necessity and significance to realize practical applications in large area and cost-effective light sources. In this paper, a high-performance internal light outcoupling system for white OLEDs with spontaneously formed metal oxide nanostructures is developed. The fabrication process of the outcoupling system is simple and can be scaled to large area manufacturing. The enhancement of external quantum efficiency in white OLEDs comprising the outcoupling system reaches a factor of 1.7, and it is further increased to 2.9 when a hemispherical lens is employed. Together with the improvement of light extraction, excellent color stability over broad viewing angles is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary cardiac lymphoma ( PCL) is a very rare malignancy although cardiac involvement with the disseminated disease is not uncommon. We present a case of a 43-year-old man with PCL that initially presented as marked thickening of all cardiac walls and was mistakenly diagnosed as an atypical type of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The diagnosis of PCL was made with a delay of 9 months after the initial presentation, when atypical lymphocytes staining positive for CD79a and CD20 were demonstrated in the rapidly growing mediastinal and neck mass. Anthracycline-based chemotherapy and anti- CD20 immunotherapy resulted in a remarkable reduction in cardiac wall thickness and mediastinal mass. The first lesson to be learnt from this case is that PCL can present as a diffuse infiltrative disease without a mass. The second lesson is that prompt exploratory thoracotomy should not be delayed when the diagnosis is elusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient transparent organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with improved stability based on conductive, transparent poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) electrodes are reported. Based on optical simulations, the device structures are carefully optimized by tuning the thickness of doped transport layers and electrodes. As a result, the performance of PEDOT:PSS-based OLEDs reaches that of indium tin oxide (ITO)-based reference devices. The efficiency and the long-term stability of PEDOT:PSS-based OLEDs are significantly improved. The structure engineering demonstrated in this study greatly enhances the overall performances of ITO-free transparent OLEDs in terms of efficiency, lifetime, and transmittance. These results indicate that PEDOT:PSS-based OLEDs have a promising future for practical applications in low-cost and flexible device manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High performance indium tin oxide (ITO)-free small molecule organic solar cells and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are demonstrated using optimized ZnO electrodes with alternative non-metallic co-dopants. The co-doping of hydrogen and fluorine reduces the metal content of ZnO thin films, resulting in a low absorption coefficient, a high transmittance, and a low refractive index as well as the high conductivity, which are needed for the application in organic solar cells and OLEDs. While the established metal-doped ZnO films have good electrical and optical properties, their application in organic devices is not as efficient as other alternative electrode approaches. The optimized ZnO electrodes presented here are employed in organic solar cells as well as OLEDs and allow not only the replacement of ITO, but also significantly improve the efficiency compared to lab-standard ITO. The enhanced performance is attributed to outstanding optical properties and spontaneously nanostructured surfaces of the ZnO films with non-metallic co-dopants and their straightforward integration with molecular doping technology, which avoids several common drawbacks of ZnO electrodes. The observations show that optimized ZnO films with non-metallic co-dopants are a promising and competitive electrode for low-cost and high performance organic solar cells and OLEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

n‐Doped C60 is reported as a new electrode material for indium‐tin‐oxide‐free organic solar cells. All layers from the bottom to top electrode are prepared in one step in a vacuum chamber. The organic solar cells based on the n‐C60 electrodes assisted by a semitransparent metal grid exhibit efficiencies as high as 2.9%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A procedure has been developed to estimate GC- MS response factors based on the theory of effective carbon number defined as the sum of the carbon number and carbon number equivalent for each selected molecular descriptor (multiplied by its number of occurrences) in each compound's molecular structure. As a means to validate the effective carbon number procedure for GC- MS analysis, a test suite of 19 volatile organic compounds was analyzed by the sorbent-tube thermal desorption method. In the effective carbon number procedure, the carbon number equivalent for each descriptor was determined to yield the optimal linear plots between response factor versus the effective carbon number with the maximum R2 (>0.975) and the minimum mean absolute error (<5%). Effective carbon number analysis is validated as a potent approach to estimate response factor values for most compounds amenable to the sorbent-tube thermal desorption GC- MS method. Overall, it is concluded that the application of response factor versus effective carbon number relationship can produce fairly reliable prediction with reduced errors relative to other comparable procedures such as the response factor versus the carbon number approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalytic natures of organometallic catalysts are modulated by coordinating organic ligands with proper steric and electronic properties to metal centers. Carbon-based nanomaterials such as graphene nanoplatelets are used with and without N-doping and multiwalled carbon nanotube as a ligand for ethylene polymerizations. Zirconocenes or titanocenes are immobilized on such nanomaterials. Polyethylenes (PEs) produced by such hybrids show a great increase in molecular weight relative to those produced by free catalysts. Specially, ultra-high-molecular-weight PEs are produced from the polymerizations at low temperature using the hybrid with N-doped graphene nanoplatelets. This result shows that such nanomaterials act a crucial role to tune the catalytic natures of metallocenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report that a solid-state battery architecture enables the reversible, four electron storage of fully utilized solvothermally synthesized cubic-FeS2 (pyrite). With a sulfide based glass electrolyte we successfully confine electro-active species and permit the safe use of a lithium metal anode. These FeS2/Li solid-state cells deliver a theoretical specific capacity of 894 mAh g−1 at 60 °C. We find that nanoparticles of orthorhombic-FeS2 (marcasite) are generated upon recharge at 30-60 °C which explains a coincident change in rate kinetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the sorptive loss patterns for volatile organic compounds were evaluated by gaseous standards containing 13 compounds (benzene, toluene, styrene, p-xylene, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, isobutyl alcohol, butyl acetate, acetaldehyde, propionaldehyde, butyraldehyde, isovaleraldehyde, and valeraldehyde). The gaseous standards, prepared initially at two contrasting concentration levels (40 and 4000 ppb) in a polyester aluminum bag, were measured after two consecutive transfers into empty bags. It indicates that the percent loss patterns, if assessed for all 13 target compounds, are affected most sensitively by the initial concentration levels of samples to yield 2.62 ± 2.22% (at 40 ppb) and 9.57 ± 6.74% (at 4000 ppb). Moreover, the sorptive loss patterns at high concentration samples (4000 ppb) tend to increase in relation with increasing molecular weight of target compounds, although such pattern disappears in low concentration samples (40 ppb). The observed loss patterns, if evaluated in relation to some key parameters like concentration or compound type, suggest the possibility that the sorptive loss of target compounds in storage media can occur in a predictable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: In doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy (DIC), the sequence of decrease in multidirectional myocardial deformation has not been clearly elucidated. Objectives: We investigated the sequence of myocardial deformations in rat DIC, using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE). Methods: Twenty rats were treated with doxorubicin (1.25 mg/kg × 16 times, intraperitoneal) for 4 weeks and compared with nine control rats. Myocardial strain analysis with 2DSTE, as well as conventional echocardiography, was obtained. Results: Compared with baseline, longitudinal strain/strain rate (LS/LSr) decreased at week 2 (−15.7 ± 1.5 to −14.1 ± 1.4%, P = 0.01 for LS; −4.4 ± 0.7 to −3.9 ± 0.5 per second, P = 0.009 for LSr). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and circumferential strain (CS) decreased at week 4 (80.3 ± 3.2 to 78.1 ± 3.3%, P = 0.031 for LVEF; −18.6 ± 1.9 to −15.0 ± 3.4%, P = 0.019 for CS). Circumferential strain rate (CSr) decreased at week 6 (−5.5 ± 0.8 to −4.6 ± 1.0 per second, P = 0.008). Radial strain/strain rate (RS/RSr) decreased at week 8 (54.8 ± 9.4 to 43.7 ± 10.6%, P = 0.005 for RS; 8.0 ± 1.1 to 7.0 ± 1.1 per second, P = 0.005 for RSr), while there was no significant change in LS/LSr, LVEF, CS/CSr, or RS/RSr in the control group. LVEF had the highest correlation with LS (r =−0.607, P = 0.000) and the lowest correlation with RSr (r = 0.357, P = 0.000). Conclusions: In DIC of rat hearts, LS/LSr decreased first, and then LVEF, CS, CSr, RS/RSr subsequently decreased. LS/LSr is considered to be a more sensitive predictor than LVEF in progressive rat DIC, and RS/RSr was preserved until the last stage. (Echocardiography 2012;29:720-728) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Pravastatin is best known for its antilipidemic action. Recent studies have shown that statins have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study aimed to determine whether or not pravastatin can attenuate acute lung injury and fibrosis in a mouse model. 2. Bleomycin was given to C57BL6 mice through intratracheal instillation. Pravastatin was given through intraperitoneal injection. To study the effect of pravastatin on the early inflammatory phase and the late fibrotic phase, mice were killed on days 3, 7, 14 and 21. 3. Pravastatin attenuated the histopathological change of bleomycin-induced lung injury and fibrosis. The accumulation of neutrophils and increased production of tumor necrosis factor-α in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were inhibited in the early inflammatory phase. Pravastatin effectively inhibited the increase of lung hydroxyproline content induced by bleomycin. Furthermore, pravastatin reduced the increased expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), RhoA and cyclin D1. The increased levels of TGF-β1 and CTGF mRNA expression were also significantly inhibited by pravastatin. 4. Pravastatin effectively attenuated bleomycin-induced lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis in mice. Our results provide evidence for the therapeutic potential of pravastatin in the treatment of acute lung injury and pulmonary fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Residual Potentials After Pulmonary Vein Isolation. Background: Residual gaps due to incomplete ablation lines are known to be the most common cause of recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation. We hypothesized that any residual potentials at the junction of the left atrium and pulmonary vein (PV), inside the circumferential PV ablation (CPVA) lines, would contribute to the recurrence of AF or post-AF ablation atrial flutter (AFL); therefore, the elimination of these potentials increases AF-/AFL-free survival rates. Methods and Results: One hundred and two patients with paroxysmal AF (PAF) were enrolled and prospectively randomized to a group with ablation of residual potentials as add-on therapy to CPVA + PV electrical isolation (PVI) (group 1, n = 49), or a group without ablation of the residual potentials (group 2, n = 53). Post-CPVA residual potentials, inside the ablation lines, were identified by contact bipolar electrode mapping catheter and a detailed 3-dimensional voltage map. Twenty-three patients in group 1 and 18 patients in group 2 had post-CPVA residual potentials (46.9% vs 34.0%, P = 0.182). The AF-/AFL-free survival rate during follow-up of 23.3 ± 7.9 months was not different in comparisons between the 2 groups (P = 0.818), and 79.6% and 81.1% of the patients in groups 1 and 2 maintained a sinus rhythm (P = 0.845), respectively. Conclusions: Residual potentials inside CPVA were commonly found in the patients with PAF after CPVA + PVI. Further ablation of residual potentials did not increase the efficacy of catheter ablation in patients with PAF. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 959-965, September 2010) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is a report of Brugada-like ST-segment abnormalities related to acute myocarditis associated with hematologic disorders. Electrocardiographic (ECG) pattern of ST-segment elevation in the right precordial leads mimicking Brugada syndrome may relate to pathological abnormalities due to hematologic disorders that may have genetic, infective, or inflammatory origins. We describe two cases of myocardial involvement of hemotologic disorders, manifested with Brugada-like ECG findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]