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The clinical application of polydioxanone (PDO) threads, traditionally utilized for tissue lifting, is now being explored for its volumizing effects in midface rejuvenation. The novel approach involves employing PDO volumizing threads to achieve physical augmentation akin to a “solid filler.” The study introduces a more convenient insertion method for these threads, prioritizing ease and efficacy. Clinical cases demonstrate the efficacy of volumizing threads in addressing midface concerns, such as nasolabial folds and midcheek grooves. Additionally, the integration of volumizing threads to provide support in sagging areas is examined for achieving natural-looking enhancements. While highlighting positive outcomes, potential side effects like thread protrusion are addressed, along with strategies for their mitigation. Volumizing threads are presented as a suitable procedure for patients wary of traditional fillers or seeking subtle enhancements, with the recommendation of combining them with cog threads for those desiring more pronounced changes in facial contour. In summary, volumizing thread offers a minimally invasive alternative with fewer side effects for midface rejuvenation.

Capsosiphon fulvescens has potential benefits for functionality. However, research on its impact on gut health is limited. In this study, the therapeutic efficacy of Capsosiphon fulvescens water extract (CFW) was investigated, with its intestinal health benefits confirmed in Caco-2 cell and mouse models. In the animal study, 32 male C57BL/6 mice were divided into control, DSS, and CFW treatment groups and treated for 28 days, with DSS given ad libitum in 7 days. Significant improvements in various biomarkers related to intestinal barrier function, including increased transepithelial electrical resistance values and reduced permeability, were observed in vitro model. Moreover, the administration of CFW was associated with improved histological scores and improved levels of TJ proteins and cytokines. The therapeutic efficacy of CFW is believed to be associated with the bioactive compounds found in the extract. The findings here highlight the promising therapeutic potential of CFW for managing inflammatory bowel disease.

Objectives: To update recent information on contamination levels of mycotoxins in South Korea. Materials and methods: A total of 208 samples sourced from the feeds of swine farms were collected. The contamination levels of mycotoxins, which are aflatoxin (Afla), ochratoxin A (OTA), deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEN), fumonisin (FUM), and T-2 toxin, were investigated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). Results: The detection levels of the total samples were 78.91% for DON, 75.24% for Afla, 47.02% for ZEN, 68.31% for FUM, and 5.94% for OTA and T-2, which were not detected at all. Most of the analyzed mycotoxins showed significant high occurrences in 47.02%–78.91% of the swine feed samples. 11 of the 152 alfa-positive samples exceeded the maximum residue limit (MRL) of Afla proposed by the Korean regulation. In the analysis of mycotoxin detection levels by growth stage, ZEN was found in the nursery stage at a remarkably high concentration level (126.46 ± 63.76 ppb), exceeding the MRL of ZEN for piglets proposed by the European Commission. This mycotoxin was also found in the samples from the gestation barn (89.04 ± 46.05 ppb) and the farrowing house (105.58 ± 94.12) at a high concentration level. Afla was found in the nursery stage at a high concentration (8.00 ± 2.22 ppb), approaching the MRL (10 ppb) of Afla proposed by the Korean regulation. Conclusion: These results indicate that many swine farms in South Korea are still exposed to mycotoxin risk, and special attention and surveillance are necessary for these mycotoxin risks in swine farms. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(1.000): 125-131]

Abstract Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic, fatal, fibrotic, interstitial lung disease of unknown cause. Despite extensive studies, the underlying mechanisms of IPF development remain unknown. Here, we found that p300 was upregulated in multiple epithelial cells in lung samples from patients with IPF and mouse models of lung fibrosis. Lung fibrosis was significantly diminished by the alveolar type II (ATII) cell–specific deletion of the p300 gene. Moreover, we found that ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L3 (UCHL3)-mediated deubiquitination of p300 led to the transcriptional activation of the chemokines Ccl2, Ccl7, and Ccl12 through the cooperative action of p300 and C/EBPβ, which consequently promoted M2 macrophage polarization. Selective blockade of p300 activity in ATII cells resulted in the reprogramming of M2 macrophages into antifibrotic macrophages. These findings demonstrate a pivotal role for p300 in the development of lung fibrosis and suggest that p300 could serve as a promising target for IPF treatment.

Introduction The prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) has been consistently increasing yearly. However, the radical therapy has not yet been established. This study is to confirm the superiority of acupuncture over artificial tear drops (ATDs) in patients with DED.Methods and analysis This study is a single-centre, investigator-initiated, assessor-blinded, parallel randomised controlled trial. 30 participants will be enrolled. Over a period of 4 weeks, the experimental group would receive two kinds of acupuncture three times a week. First, body acupuncture would be performed on bilateral BL2, GB14, TE23, EX-HN5 and ST1 for 15 min. Thereafter, intradermal acupuncture would be performed on the same acupoints for 4 hours. On the other hand, the control group would apply the provided ATD at least four times a day. As a rescue medication for severe DED symptoms, both groups can additionally apply ATD. The frequency of ATD use would be recorded during the trial. The primary outcomes are the Ocular Surface Disease Index and tear film break-up time. The secondary outcomes are subjective symptom Visual Analogue Scale, quality of life, Schirmer I test, tear lactoferrin level, treatment satisfaction and safety. The outcomes would be mostly assessed at visits 1, 13 and 14.Ethics and dissemination This study was approved by the institutional review board of Naju Dongshin University Korean Medicine Hospital (Approval No. NJ-IRB-23-5). The obtained results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal.Trial registration number KCT0008563.

This study aimed to investigate effects of long-term probiotic supplementation on gut microbiota and growth performance in health weaned piglets. The non-probiotic group (N-PrB) was fed only a basal diet, while the probiotic group (PrB) was fed a basal diet + probiotic combination (E. faecium 1.6 × 108 CFU/g, B. subtilis 2.0 × 108 CFU/g, S. cerevisiae 3.0 × 108 CFU/g). The probiotics combination was provided to the PrB, mixing with the basal diet in 5 kg/ton. As a result, the PrB exhibited significantly improved weight gain compared to the N-PrB (p = 0.00991). In the gut microbiome analysis, the PrB exhibited a significant increasing tendency of α-diversity compared to those of the N-PrB (p < 0.01). In the bacterial relative abundance changes in bacteria comprising the gut microbiota, Ruminococcaceae (p = 0.00281) and Prevotella (p = 0.00687) tended to significantly increase in the PrB, but decreased in the N-PrB. The Eubaterium coprostanoligenes group exhibited an increasing tendency in both groups, but tended to increase more significantly in the PrB compared to the N-PrB (p = 0.00681). Muribaculaceae tended to significantly increase in the N-PrB, but decreased in the PrB (p = 0.002779). In this study, significant differences on the gut microbiome were found according to the probiotics supplementation in the weaned piglets and these gut microbiome changes appeared to improve the growth performance.

Much research has shown Bee venom to be an effective neuroprotective agent. However, the usual transdermal injection of bee venom poses many pharmacokinetic disadvantages. Here, we compared the administration of bee venom via subcutaneous injection (SC) and via Microneedle patch (MN). Both administrated routes produce significant recovery effects, however: the MN significantly prolongs the bio-significant-and-yet-lower concentration of bee venom in mice bodies. In contrast, SC could produce only a short period of much higher bee venom levels in the blood and brain. We also see that due to the concentration-response-curve of bee venom (represented by melittin): mice bodies do not require much higher bee venom concentration (seen in the SC group) to produce a much more significant neuroprotective effect (than seen in those treated with the MN method). Therefore, a MN could maintain bee venom levels in mice bodies at lower-yet-more-efficient concentrations. This is important, as bee venom can cause more adverse effects and pain sensations, at higher concentrations. For the first time, we confirmed that the pharmacokinetic advantages of MN delivered bee venom also guarantee a holistic neuroprotection effect (which was shown by SC delivered bee venom in previous research). This was proven via the results of the water maze experiments for long-term learning memory assessment and protein analysis of key neuronal regulatory proteins: BDNF, p-CREB, iNOS, and mArhR 1. In conclusion, for situations where we ought to administrate drugs at a more downward amount, such as bee venom, MN can keep the therapeutic concentrations at a lower, yet interestingly, more-efficient level.

Thread-lifting traditionally addressed aging-related skin laxity by leveraging precise thread placement and traction. However, recent advancements, notably cog threads, expanded its application to younger patients seeking facial contour refinement. These newer threads effectively lift sagging areas and refine facial contours, broadening the procedure’s appeal. Challenges arise in selecting threads due to variable physician preferences and patient needs. Clear indications for thread efficacy are vital for credibility and tailored selection. Thread choice depends on tissue laxity, necessitating lighter threads for minimal laxity and stronger ones for significant sagging. However, no single thread universally suits all cases. Combining different threads is favored for optimal outcomes and minimizing side effects. Excessive traction post-procedure may lead to prolonged discomfort and skin irregularities. Post-procedural tension adjustments through massage remain debated, potentially conflicting with minimally invasive principles. Understanding thread characteristics guides tailored selection, considering patient conditions and procedural goals. This comprehensive understanding extends beyond specific products, aiming for optimal outcomes in thread-lifting procedures. Key factors influencing outcomes encompass thread materials, thickness, cog shapes, insertion depth, lifting vectors, and absorbable thread expiration dates.

It is crucial for human health that the immune system of the gastrointestinal tract works effectively. Dietary modulation is one of the factors that regulate the immune response in the gut. This study aims to develop a safe human challenge model to study gastrointestinal inflammation and immune function. This study focuses on evaluating gut stimulation induced by the oral cholera vaccine in healthy people. In addition, this paper describes the study design for assessing the efficacy and safety of a probiotic lysate, identifying whether functional ingredients in food can modulate inflammatory response induced by oral cholera vaccine. Forty-six males aged 20 to 50 with healthy bowel habits will be randomly allocated to the placebo or intervention group. Participants will consume 1 capsule of probiotic lysate or placebo twice daily for 6 weeks, take oral cholera vaccines on visit 2 (day 15) and visit 5 (day 29). The level of fecal calprotectin, a marker of gut inflammation, will be the primary outcome. The changes of cholera toxin-specific antibody levels and local/systemic inflammatory responses will be evaluated in blood. The purpose of this study is to evaluate gut stimulation of the oral cholera vaccine and investigate the effect of a probiotic lysate on improving the mild inflammatory response induced by the vaccine or supporting the immune response in healthy subjects. Trial registration: * This trial is registered in the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform of WHO (ICTRP, registration number: KCT0002589).

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal adult lung disease. Here the authors investigate the functional significance of PDCD5 in club cells as a mediator of lung fibrosis and potential therapeutic target for IPF.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major global cause of disease and mortality. CVDs are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and include coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, heart failure, and other conditions. The most important behavioral risk factors for heart disease and stroke are diet, physical activity, smoking, and drinking. Increased intake of fruits and vegetables is associated with reducing the risk of metabolic syndrome and CVDs. Red-colored foods align with cardiovascular health by protecting the heart and blood vessels. Red fruits and vegetables include tomatoes, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries, cherries, red apples, beets, and pomegranate. In vitro and in vivo studies, as well as clinical trials, show that the components of red foods demonstrate various potential health benefits against disease. In conclusion, there are many advantages to eating vegetable foods, especially red fruits and vegetables.

ObjectiveResearch biopsies are an essential component of cancer clinical trials for studying drug efficacy and identifying biomarkers. Site-level clinical investigators, however, do not have access to results on the adequacy of research biopsies for histological or molecular assays, because samples are sent to central labs and the test results are seldom reported back to site-level investigators unless requested. We evaluated the feasibility, safety, and adequacy of research biopsies performed at an academic medical center.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed the data on 122 research biopsy sessions conducted in 99 patients via percutaneous core needle biopsy for 39 clinical trials from January 2017 to February 2018 at a single institute. We asked the sponsors of each clinical trial for the adequacy of the biopsy samples for histological or molecular assays.ResultsThe biopsy success rate was 93.4% (113/122), with nine samples categorized as inadequate for obtaining pathologic diagnosis. Post-biopsy complications occurred in 9.8% (12/122) of biopsies, all of which were mild and completely recovered by the day after the biopsy. The sponsors of clinical trials provided feedbacks on the adequacy of 76 biopsy samples, and noted that a total of 8 biopsy samples from 7 patients were inadequate for analysis, resulting in an adequacy rate of 89.5% (68/76): the reasons for inadequacy were insufficient tumor content for immunohistochemistry (n = 3) and low RNA yield for sequencing (n = 5).ConclusionResearch biopsies performed at an experienced, multidisciplinary center had acceptable safety for patients as well as practicality in terms of obtaining adequate tissue samples for molecular studies.

Wheat germ (WG) is a by-product of wheat milling and comprises many bioactive compounds. This study aimed to compare the antioxidant and antilipidemic effects of different WG extracts (WGEs) by analyzing candidate bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, tocopherols, γ-oryzanol, and biogenic amines by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Antioxidant activity was determined using the ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays. The antilipidemic effect was evaluated in palmitic acid-induced steatosis in HepG2 hepatocytes and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Cellular lipid accumulation was assessed by Oil Red O staining and a cellular triglyceride content assay. All analyzed WGEs showed significant antioxidant potential, although some bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids, tocopherols, and γ-oryzanol, were the highest in the ethanol extract. Correlation analysis revealed the antioxidant potential of all identified biogenic amines except for spermidine. Ethanol and n-hexane extracts significantly inhibited cellular lipid accumulation in cell models. These results suggest that WGEs exhibit promising antioxidant potential, with a variety of bioactive compounds. Collectively, the findings of this study suggest that bioactive compounds in WGEs attenuate plasma lipid and oxidation levels. In conclusion, WG can be used as a natural antioxidant and nutraceutical using appropriate solvents and extraction methods.

Skin is larger than any other organ in humans. Like other organs, various bacterial, viral, and inflammatory diseases, as well as cancer, affect the skin. Skin diseases like acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis often reduce the quality of life seriously. Therefore, effective treatment of skin disorders is important despite them not being life-threatening. Conventional medicines for skin diseases include corticosteroids and antimicrobial drugs, which are effective in treating many inflammatory and infectious skin diseases; however, there are growing concerns about the side effects of these therapies, especially during long-term use in relapsing or intractable diseases. Hence, many researchers are trying to develop alternative treatments, especially from natural sources, to resolve these limitations. Bee venom (BV) is an attractive candidate because many experimental and clinical reports show that BV exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, anti-fibrotic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anticancer effects. Here, we review the therapeutic applications of BV in skin diseases, including acne, alopecia, atopic dermatitis, melanoma, morphea, photoaging, psoriasis, wounds, wrinkles, and vitiligo. Moreover, we explore the therapeutic mechanisms of BV in the treatment of skin diseases and killing effects of BV on skin disease-causing pathogens, including bacteria, fungi and viruses.

Purpose: To compare the long term outcomes of transtibial nonanatomic single-bundle (SB) and double-bundle (DB) anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods: Between January 2008 and September 2010, we retrospectively evaluated 377 patients who underwent primary ACL reconstruction and who were available at 8 years of follow-up. Patients who received transtibial nonanatomic SB ACL reconstruction ( n = 263) were assigned to group SB and DB ACL reconstruction ( n = 114) to group DB. The patients were assessed with the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the Lysholm scores, Tegner activity score, knee joint stability tests, and patellofemoral osteoarthritis (OA) findings using the Kellgren–Lawrence (K-L) classification. Contralateral ACL (CACL) injury was also evaluated. Results: Thirteen patients underwent revision ACL surgery during the follow-up. Ultimately, 256 patients in group SB and 108 patients in group DB were available at the 8-year follow-up. At final follow-up, the IKDC subjective score ( p = 0.04) and Lysholm score ( p = 0.02) showed significantly superior results in group DB compared to group SB. However, there was no significant difference of Tegner activity score ( p = 0.30), range of motion ( p = 0.81), and knee joint stability tests. There was significant progression of patellofemoral OA between preoperative and final follow-up in ipsilateral knee of both groups but not significant progression in contralateral knee. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups at the follow-up. There were 2.7% ipsilateral ACL graft failure in group SB, compared with 5.2% in group DB ( p = 0.12) and 6.4% CACL tear in group SB, compared with 5.2% in group DB ( p = 0.65). The mean survivorship of ACL graft was 9.47 ± 0.05 years (95% confidence interval (CI), 9.36–9.58) in group SB and 9.87 ± 0.16 years (95% CI, 9.54–10.20) in group DB, and there was no significant difference ( p = 0.25). Conclusion: DB ACL reconstruction resulted in significantly better clinical IKDC subjective scores and Lysholm scores. However, most of the differences in clinical scores were small, and the clinical relevance of this difference is unknown. In addition, there was no significant difference in Tegner activity score, knee joint stability tests, patellofemoral OA, and survivor rate of the ACL graft and CACL after reconstruction after a minimum of 8-year follow-up. Level of Evidence: Cohort study; level of evidence, 3.

MIL-53(Fe), synthesized by a one-step hydrothermal method, was investigated for the removal of toluene and inactivation of bacteriophage ⲪX 174 in air under visible light illumination. MIL-53(Fe) exhibited superior photochemical activity to other metal organic frameworks synthesized by the same method with different metal precursors. Analytical methods of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, BET specific surface area analysis, SEM-EDS, FT-IR analysis, XRD, Mott-Schottky analysis, and XPS were used to characterize MIL-53(Fe). The illuminated MIL-53(Fe) removed input toluene (C0 = 3.59 g/m3 ) by 66% in 6 h by adsorption and subsequent photocatalytic oxidation. High humidity and temperature, and the anoxic condition inhibited the toluene removal. MIL-53(Fe) showed sustainable toluene removal for five consecutive runs, even though the photocatalytic activity slightly decreased. Meanwhile, the illuminated MIL-53(Fe) also resulted in the inactivation of ⲪX 174 suspended in air, achieving approximately 3 log inactivation in 60 min (N0 = ~106 PFU/mL air). Similar to toluene removal, the presence of oxygen and low humidity were beneficial for viral inactivation. The photo-generated holes are believed to be responsible for the organic degradation and viral inactivation by the illuminated MIL-53(Fe). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bone tunnel enlargement is one of the important factors that determine whether a revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) should be performed in 1 or 2 stages. The goal of this retrospective cohort study was to compare the mid-term to long-term outcomes of 1-stage revision ACLR according to the amount of preoperative tunnel enlargement.Methods: Between January 2002 and January 2012, 88 patients who underwent revision ACLR were enrolled. The patients were divided into 2 groups based on the tunnel diameter (group A, <12 mm; group B, ≥12 mm). Clinical scores (International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC] subjective score, Lysholm score, and Tegner score) and knee joint stability (as measured with the anterior drawer test, Lachman test, pivot-shift test, and measurement of the side-to-side difference in anterior tibial translation on Telos stress radiographs) were evaluated preoperatively and 5 to 15 years postoperatively. The failure rate and survivorship were compared between groups A and B.Results: The mean time to final follow-up was 7.9 ± 2.6 years. There were 44 patients in each of the 2 groups. There were no significant differences in the postoperative IKDC subjective scores, Lysholm scores, or Tegner activity scores between the groups. However, group A showed superior results on all knee joint stability tests except for the anterior drawer test. There were 3 failures in group A (7%) and 6 in group B (14%). The overall survival rates with failure as the end point were 93.1% and 84.6%, respectively, at 15 years.Conclusions: The 5 to 15-year clinical scores following revision ACLR did not differ significantly according to the preoperative amount of tunnel widening. However, the results of the postoperative Lachman and pivot-shift tests as well as the side-to-side difference in anterior tibial translation on Telos stress radiographs were significantly superior in the group with a preoperative tunnel diameter of <12 mm compared with the group with a tunnel diameter of ≥12 mm.Level Of Evidence: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Programmed cell death 5 (PDCD5) has been associated with human cancers as a regulator of cell death; however, the role of PDCD5 in the endothelium has not been revealed. Thus, we investigated whether PDCD5 regulates protein kinase B (PKB/AKT)-endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)-dependent signal transduction in the endothelium and affects atherosclerosis. Endothelial-specific PDCD5 knockout mice showed significantly reduced vascular remodeling compared with wild-type (WT) mice after partial carotid ligation. WT PDCD5 competitively inhibited interaction between histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) and AKT, but PDCD5L6R, an HDAC3-binding-deficient mutant, did not. Knockdown of PDCD5 accelerated HDAC3-AKT interaction, AKT and eNOS phosphorylation, and nitric oxide (NO) production in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Moreover, we found that serum PDCD5 levels reflect endothelial NO production and are correlated with diabetes mellitus, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and coronary calcium in human samples obtained from the cardiovascular high-risk cohort. Therefore, we conclude that PDCD5 is associated with endothelial dysfunction and may be a novel therapeutic target in atherosclerosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the effect of managerial ability on subsequent stock price crash risk using listed firm data in Korea. Compared to some financially advanced countries, the influence of managers is particularly more powerful in Korea, as ownership and management are not effectively separate in most Korean firms. In addition, we considered the effect of large business groups called Chaebol, which is family-run conglomerates with unique corporate governance system that hugely affect the Korean economy. It is important to recognize determinants of the stock price crash risk which would result in doubt on going concern to enhance the company's sustainable management. Hence, this study focuses on the managerial ability as one of the main factors of the stock price crash risk. We use the measures of firm-specific stock price crash risk based on Hutton et al. (2009). Managerial ability is estimated through a Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and tobit regressions following Demerjian et al. (2012). From the empirical tests, there is a negative association between managerial ability and stock price crash risk. This suggests that managers with a higher ability release more voluntary disclosure to signal their ability, ultimately lowering the subsequent stock price crash risk. We also find that firms in large business groups, Chaebol, weaken the negative association between managerial ability and subsequent stock price crash risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This integrative literature review critically examined how scholars were articulating the work of museums to make a space for 'adult learning for social change through community engagement'. We applied sociocultural adult learning theories (situated learning and cultural-historical activity theory), to 25 theoretical and empirical studies in predominantly museum and culture-based journals but also, specific adult education and lifelong learning journals. We found the studies shared in the works underscored the importance of social, collective interactions (adult learning for social change through community engagement) in the informal settings of museums and the work of various learning mediators of learning such as educators, tour guides and even, curators. In particular, we found a belief in the value of participatory collaborations based on community needs. However, when it came to practice, most studies illuminated passive, individualised processes of learning confined to pre-organised education activities. We argue therefore, that although museums have great potential to become meaningful spaces for adult learning for social change through community engagement, there is a disconnection between a belief/application of more critical, sociocultural learning perspectives and the actual practices under study. We argue that an application of what these theories suggest is needed to strengthen adult learning for social change through community engagement in museums. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and biochemical profiles according to homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in Korean polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. Methods: In 458 PCOS patients diagnosed by the Rotterdam European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) criteria, measurements of somatometry, blood test of hormones, glucose metabolic and lipid profiles, and transvaginal or transrectal ultrasonogram were carried out. HOMA-IR was then calculated and compared with the clinical and biochemical profiles related to PCOS. The patients were divided into 4 groups by quartiles of HOMA-IR. Results: The mean level of HOMA-IR was 2.18 ± 1.73. Among the four groups separated according to HOMA-IR, body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, lipid accumulation product (LAP) index, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), Apoprotein B, free testosterone, and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were found to be significantly different. TG, LAP index, glucose metabolic profiles, and hs-CRP were positively correlated with HOMA-IR after adjustment for BMI. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the clinical and biochemical profiles which are applicable as cardiovascular risk factors are highly correlated with HOMA-IR in Korean women with PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candida is a rare cause of infectious arthritis, and it can be found in infants and immunocompromised patients. Patients with maintenance hemodialysis are prone to opportunistic infections because of altered immunity, and frequent exposures to health-care associated infections. Herein, we report a case of candida arthritis of right shoulder with preceding fungemia in patients with maintenance hemodialysis. The diagnosis is based on the isolation of Candida Tropicalis from blood and synovial fluids of the shoulder joint. The patient has received intravenous fluconazole and arthroscopic surgical debridement. We then changed the fluconazole into amphotericin B due to the abnormal signs in the liver function tests, although the fluconazole successfully controlled fungemia and arthritis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of candida arthritis in patients with maintenance hemodialysis in South Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated whether ataxia telangiectasia and rad3-related (ATR) kinases regulate prolongation of ionizing radiation (IR) induced-G2 arrest and radioresistance in ataxia telangiectasia mutated-intact cancer cells. ATR overexpressing cancer cells showed prolonged-G2 arrest after IR exposure and were significantly resistant to DNA damaging stresses. The phosphorylation of p-Ser15-p53, p-Ser345-Chk1, and p-Tyr15-Cdk1 phosphorylation was increased until 36 h after IR exposure in ATR-overexpressing cells, whereas p-Ser10-histone H3 decreased. ATR-overexpressing cells also showed rapid attenuation of increased γ-H2AX foci after IR exposure compared with control cells. In contrast, ATR knockdown cells had limited clearance of γ-H2AX foci after IR exposure. In conclusion, ATR overexpression seems to primarily induce prolonged G2 arrest after IR exposure, which increases IR resistance by enhancing DNA damage repair. These results may provide useful clues for understanding the function of ATR in controlling IR-induced G2 arrest and radiation response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Inhibitors of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have shown dramatic results in a subset of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and have also been shown to enhance the effect of ionizing radiation (IR). We investigated how gefitinib, an orally given EGFR inhibitor for NSCLC patients, can radiosensitize NSCLC cells. Experimental Design and Results: In clonogenic survival assays performed in three NSCLC cell lines, gefitinib radiosensitized NCI-H460 and VMRC-LCD but not A549 cells. Gefitinib pretreatment induced multinucleated cells after IR exposure in NCI-H460 and VMRC-LCD, but not in A549 cells. Gefitinib also inhibited activation of ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) after IR-exposure in NCI-H460 and VMRC-LCD, but not in A549 cells. An ATM specific inhibitor increased IR-induced multinucleated cells in both NCI-H460 and A549 cells. Gefitinib pretreatment inhibited the gradual decrease of γH2AX foci relative to time after IR exposure in NCI-H460 but not in A549 cells. Suppression of COX-2 in A549 cells induced multinucleated cells and caused radiosensitization after gefitinib+IR treatment. In contrast, COX-2 overexpression in NCI-H460 cells attenuated the induction of multinucleation and radiosensitization after the same treatment. Conclusions: Our results suggest that gefitinib radiosensitizes NSCLC cells by inhibiting ATM activity and therefore inducing mitotic cell death, and that COX-2 overexpression in NSCLC cells inhibits this action of gefitinib. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common type of salivary gland tumor and the most common tumor of the parotid gland. Because of its propensity for invasion, pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid requires superficial parotidectomy or total parotidectomy to minimize the risk of tumor recurrence. We report a case of pleomorphic adenoma of the parotid gland with repeated recurrences. A 23-year-old male patient presented with a protruding neck mass. Six years prior to this presentation, the patient had undergone superficial parotidectomy for the removal of pleomorphic adenoma of the right parotid gland at our institution. The patient experienced recurrence at 17 months after the initial resection, which required a total parotidectomy with partial resection of the facial nerve. Pathologic examination revealed histologic findings consistent with pleomorphic adenoma across the surgical specimen from all three of the operations. The patient suffered from facial nerve paralysis, with facial expressions partially recovered over a year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose Satisfaction should be prioritized to maximize the value of education for trainees. This study was conducted with professors, fellows, and surgical residents in the Department of general surgery (GS) to evaluate the importance of various educational modules to surgical residents. Methods A questionnaire was administered to professors (n = 28), fellows (n = 8), and surgical residents (n = 14), and the responses of the three groups were compared. Four different categories of educational curricula were considered: instructor-led training, clinical education, self-paced learning, and hands-on training. Results The majority of surgeons regarded attending scrubs as the most important educational module in the training of surgical residents. However, while professors identified assisting operators by participating in surgery as the most important, residents assessed the laparoscopic training module with animal models as the most beneficial. Conclusions The best educational training course for surgical residents was hands-on training, which would provide them with several opportunities to operate and perform surgical procedures themselves.

The classification of nasolabial folds into three types, each with distinct causative factors and mechanisms, is explored. Age-related changes in facial skin and connective tissues are examined in detail, revealing variations across different facial regions due to variances in tissue firmness and thickness. The innovative ‘Reverse Technique,’ involving cog threads to enhance tissue traction and effectiveness in thread-lifting procedures, is introduced. Detailed technical guidelines, anatomical considerations, and safety measures are provided, emphasizing the importance of identifying optimal vectors and fixing points to achieve maximum lifting effects while minimizing potential risks, particularly those associated with vascular structures. Additionally, the ‘Cross Technique using volumizing thread’ is discussed, designed to smooth tissue boundaries and rejuvenate sagging areas. Facial anatomy, including the positioning of arteries and ligaments, is underscored as essential for ensuring the safety and efficacy of procedures. In conclusion, this review stands as a comprehensive guide for practitioners, offering insights into innovative thread-lifting methods and their applications in addressing nasolabial folds. The primary focus is on achieving optimal aesthetic results while prioritizing patient safety.

Abstract Background Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and television viewing are independently associated with cardiorespiratory fitness. However, limited evidence is available on their combined effects, specifically of MVPA and watching television, on cardiorespiratory fitness in the young Asian population. Therefore, the present study examined whether MVPA can attenuate the detrimental effects of prolonged television viewing on the cardiorespiratory fitness of Asian adolescents. Methods This is a cross-sectional study on 9553 adolescents (aged 12–15 years) from 8 Asian metropolitan cities (Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Taipei, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, and Singapore). Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed by using a 15-m progressive aerobic capacity endurance run (PACER) test. The time spent on MVPA and watching television was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form. Results MVPA was more closely associated with the PACER score than the duration of watching television. Compared with the reference group (i.e. those with the lowest levels of MVPA [

Pinus thunbergii is a black pine that has been widely used in health-promoting foods. This study was conducted to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of the alcohol-aqueous extract of Pinus thunbergii PARL leaves (PTE) in ethanol-induced liver-damaged mice. PTE increased the weight and survival rate of mice while reducing the levels of serum hepatic marker enzymes. PTE also restored the levels of antioxidant enzymes in liver tissues while drastically increasing lipid peroxidation concentrations. Histopathological examination of PTE-treated mice presented relatively less lipid droplets and hepatic tissue damage compared to ethanol-treated mice. Finally, to identify PTE components, Natural Products Application Solution with UNIFI along with an in-house library was processed and results revealed 35 compounds in the extract. These compounds were reported to exhibit significant antioxidant and/or hepatoprotective properties. Our results suggest that PTE improves liver function and can be developed as a food product with hepatoprotective effects.

Krill accounts for the highest abundant animal biomass on earth though it remains underexplored. During the present study, krill protein hydrolysates (KPH) were prepared using several proteases, optimizing reaction time for dose-response analysis of antioxidant activity. Bioassay-guided fractionation of selected KPH of pepsin, first by ultrafiltration (3 kDa), revealed the active fraction, 1–3 kDa, which was consecutively separated by ion-exchange chromatography and stepwise RP-HPLC. Three peptides were identified, sequenced and synthesized. The peptide P2 was effective in reducing H2O2-induced oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase. P2 reduced apoptosis in H2O2-stimulated hepatocytes by regulating the expression levels of Bcl-2/Bax and caspase-3. P2 pre-treatment increased nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) expression in cultured hepatocytes. Furthermore, P2 induced the activation of Nrf2/HO-1 by activating the ERK pathway.

Antioxidant peptides were purified from Mytilus edulis hydrolysates by peptic hydrolysis using consecutive chromatographic techniques with SP-Sephadex C-25 cation-exchanger and reverse-phase-high performance liquid chromatography. Three antioxidant peptides including PIIVYWK (1004.57 Da, P1), TTANIEDRR (1074.54 Da, P2), and FSVVPSPK (860.09 Da, P3) were identified by LC-MS/MS. P1, P2, and P3 exhibited strong DPPH radical scavenging and ORAC activity. P1 and P3 were found to be more potent antioxidant peptides than P2. Thus, hepatoprotective activities of P1 and P3 were evaluated against H2O2-induced hepatic damage in cultured hepatocytes. P1 and P3 significantly (p

Abalone viscera is one of the byproducts from abalone processing and is discarded as industrial waste. In this study, abalone viscera hydrolysates (AVH) were prepared using Alcalase, Flavourzyme, Neutrase, and Protamex, and their oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) was evaluated. The AVH by Alcalase showed promising ORAC value, and further optimal enzyme/substrate hydrolysis condition for production of the AVH was determined. The AVH also exerted strong hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, Fe2+ chelating activity, and reducing power. Furthermore, the AVH inhibited lipid peroxidation in a model system and protected hydroxyl radical-induced DNA damage. Amino acid profiles revealed that the AVH contained 57.1% antioxidant amino acids and 44.0% hydrophobic amino acids, which contributed to its higher antioxidant activity. In addition, the AVH showed cytoprotective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced cytotoxicity of cultured hepatocytes, and significantly (p