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This study investigates the effect of Licochalcone A (Lico-A), a flavonoid from licorice roots known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and antioxidant properties, on NMDA-induced neurotoxicity in primary cultured rat hippocampal neurons. The study measured cell survival following NMDA and Lico-A exposure, revealing that Lico-A at a 2.5 μg/ml significantly improved cell viability, countering the detrimental effects of NMDA. The study also analyzed synaptic changes by examining both postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) and synaptophysin-targeted imaging, showing that Lico-A treatment resulted in a significant increase in synaptic puncta, contrasting with the reduction observed under NMDA exposure. Furthermore, levels of phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase (P-MLKL) and phosphorylated receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 3 (P-RIP3), key necroptosis regulators, were measured using Western blotting. The results showed an increase in P-MLKL and P-RIP3 in neurons exposed to NMDA, which was reduced following Lico-A treatment. The response of astrocyte and microglia was also evaluated by immunostaining for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA-1) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). These markers exhibited heightened expression in the NMDA group, which was substantially reduced by Lico-A treatment. These findings suggest that Lico-A has neuroprotective effects against NMDA-induced neurotoxicity, potentially contributing to synaptic preservation, inhibition of neuronal necroptosis, and modulation of glial activation. Therefore, Lico-A shows promise as a neuroprotective agent for conditions associated with NMDA-related neurotoxicity.

Abstract Background Calf circumference is currently recommended as a case-finding marker for sarcopenia, but its usefulness has not been determined in chronic pain conditions. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the predictive performance of calf circumference in diagnosing sarcopenia in older patients with chronic low back pain. Methods Ambulatory adult patients aged ≥ 65 years with chronic low back pain were enrolled. A diagnosis of sarcopenia was established based on the criteria outlined by the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia in 2019. Patient demographics, pain-related factors, clinical factors, and sarcopenia-related measurements were compared between non-sarcopenic and sarcopenic patients. Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the correlation of calf circumference with muscle mass, strength, and physical performance. Also, a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for calf circumference in predicting sarcopenia was conducted; and area under the curve (AUC) values, along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated. Results Data from 592 patients were included in the analysis. Eighty-five patients were diagnosed with sarcopenia (14.3%), 71 of whom had severe sarcopenia (11.9%). A higher prevalence of sarcopenia was observed in female patients (9.0% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.016). After adjusting for age, BMI, and comorbidities, calf circumference correlated positively with muscle mass but not with muscle strength and physical performance. The AUC values for sarcopenia were 0.754 (95% CI = 0.636–0.871, p = 0.001) in males and 0.721 (95% CI = 0.657–0.786, p

Background: In this study, we examined the impact of a patient blood management (PBM) program on red blood cell (RBC) transfusion practices in cardiothoracic surgery. Methods: The PBM program had 3 components: monitoring transfusions through an order communication system checklist, educating the medical team about PBM, and providing feedback to ordering physicians on the appropriateness of transfusion. The retrospective analysis examined changes in the hemoglobin levels triggering transfusion and the proportions of appropriate RBC transfusions before, during, and after PBM implementation. Further analysis was focused on patients undergoing cardiac surgery, with outcomes including 30-day mortality, durations of intensive care unit and hospital stays, and rates of pneumonia, sepsis, and wound complications. Results: The study included 2,802 patients admitted for cardiothoracic surgery. After the implementation of PBM, a significant decrease was observed in the hemoglobin threshold for RBC transfusion. This threshold dropped from 8.7 g/dL before PBM to 8.3 g/dL during the PBM education phase and 8.0 g/dL during the PBM feedback period. Additionally, the proportion of appropriate RBC transfusions increased markedly, from 23.9% before PBM to 34.9% and 58.2% during the education and feedback phases, respectively. Among the 381 patients who underwent cardiac surgery, a significant reduction was noted in the length of hospitalization over time (p

Owing to their excellent optoelectronic properties, halide perovskites (HPs) have garnered significant attention in the field of optoelectronics. However, conventional HPs‐based optoelectronic devices primarily are fabricated using solution‐based processes, implying that extremely time‐consuming needs to individually synthesize their composition‐dependent optoelectronic properties. This study demonstrates the feasibility of combining first‐principles simulations with combinatorial synthesis, comparing the effects of HP properties on optoelectronic devices using this combined approach. The first‐principles simulations confirm that increasing the ratio of small halide ions increased the band gap by k·p perturbation theory and harmonic oscillator models. By fabricating HP thin films with compositional gradients using combinatorial synthesis, it is confirmed that an increase in band gap corresponds to a decrease in static relative permittivity. Furthermore, HP‐based optoelectronic devices are fabricated to measure their photoelectric conversion efficiency and responsivity based on the simulated and measured relative permittivity, including time‐resolved photoluminescence. The findings demonstrate the influence of the relative permittivity on device performance, elucidating the relationship between band structure and relative permittivity. Therefore, in this study, the potential of combining first‐principles simulations with combinatorial synthesis is confirmed by comparing the relative permittivity characteristics of optoelectronics developed using this combined approach.

Background This present study aimed to investigate the impact of left atrial appendage (LAA) isolation on adverse clinical outcomes, with a further stratified analysis by biatrial (BA) and left atrial lesion sets, in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing surgical ablation (SA) concurrent with mitral valve (MV) surgery.Methods We evaluated 875 patients (aged 65.1±12.0 years) who underwent SA of AF concomitant to MV surgery, excluding those with mechanical prostheses requiring lifelong anticoagulation, between 2005 and 2017 in five tertiary cardiac centres in South Korea. Of these, 458 had isolated the LAA, whereas the remainder (n=417) had the LAA preserved. Comparative risk of stroke, mortality and AF recurrence was assessed between the groups, considering death as a competing event. Inverse-probability treatment weighting was used for baseline adjustment.Results During the median follow-up of 57.4 months (IQR, 32.5–92.4 months), the adjusted risk of long-term stroke was significantly lower in the patients who underwent LAA isolation compared with those who preserved the LAA (subdistribution HR (SHR), 0.28; 95% CI 0.15 to 0.51; p

Normal variants refer to imaging findings that are generally asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, yet may exhibit findings similar to those observed in pathological conditions. Recognizing normal variants in pediatric bone requires comprehension of the developmental process of long tubular bones and secondary ossification centers. Familiarity with various radiological findings of normal variants can prevent unnecessary follow-up imaging tests, as well as incorrect diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we will discuss the characteristic imaging findings of normal variants seen in growing pediatric bones, along with strategies for distinguishing them from pathologic conditions.

IntroductionThe rapid spread of COVID-19 worldwide within 2 months demonstrated the vulnerability of the world’s population to infectious diseases. In 2015, the Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) was launched to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, there has been no comprehensive assessment of the decade-long global battle against AMR based on GLASS data.MethodsSouth Korea established Kor-GLASS (Korean-GLASS) to proactively monitor data quality and enable international collaborations. A unique feature of Kor-GLASS is the quality control center (QCC), which uses network hubs and ensures standardized, high-quality data through interlaboratory proficiency testing (IPT) and external quality assessment (EQA). In addition, the QCC multifaceted endeavors for integrated data quality management.ResultsSince 2020, high-quality AMR data have indicated fluctuating antibiotic resistance rates in South Korea. This trend does not align with the decrease in antibiotic usage seen in humans but coincides with non-human antibiotic sales, indicating a need for greater monitoring of non-human antibiotic resistance. Comprehensive and robust management taking account of the intricate interplay among humans, animals, and the environment is essential. Kor-GLASS has been expanded into a “One Health” multiagency collaborative initiative.DiscussionAlthough a standardized solution is not suitable for all countries, it must align with the local context and international standards. A centralized top-down management structure such as that of the QCC is essential to ensure continuous data quality coordination. Sustained efforts and surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring and managing AMR and safeguarding human health.

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have shown remarkable advancements and achieved impressive power conversion efficiencies since their initial introduction in 2012. However, challenges regarding stability, quality, and sustainability must be addressed for their successful commercial use. This review analyses the recent studies and challenges related to the operating life and end-of-life utilization of PSCs. Strategies to enhance the stability and mitigate the toxic Pb leakage in operational and recycling approaches of discarded PSCs post their end-of-life are examined to establish a viable and sustainable PSC industry. Additionally, future research directions are proposed for the advancements in the PSC industry. The goal is to ensure high efficiency as well as economic and environmental sustainability throughout the lifecycle of PSCs.

The widespread use of wireless communication devices has necessitated unavoidable exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). In particular, increasing RF-EMF exposure among children is primarily driven by mobile phone use. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of 1850 MHz RF-EMF exposure at a specific absorption rate of 4.0 W/kg on cortical neurons in mice at postnatal day 28. The results indicated a significant reduction in the number of mushroom-shaped dendritic spines in the prefrontal cortex after daily exposure for 4 weeks. Additionally, prolonged RF-EMF exposure over 9 days led to a gradual decrease in postsynaptic density 95 puncta and inhibited neurite outgrowth in developing cortical neurons. Moreover, the expression levels of genes associated with synapse formation, such as synaptic cell adhesion molecules and cyclin-dependent kinase 5, were reduced in the cerebral cortexes of RF-EMF-exposed mice. Behavioral assessments using the Morris water maze revealed altered spatial learning and memory after the 4-week exposure period. These findings underscore the potential of RF-EMF exposure during childhood to disrupt synaptic function in the cerebral cortex, thereby affecting the developmental stages of the nervous system and potentially influencing later cognitive function.

Piper attenuatum Buch-Ham, a perennial woody vine belonging to the Piperaceae family, is traditionally used in Southeast Asia for treating various ailments such as malaria, headache, and hepatitis. This study described the isolation and identification of three new compounds, piperamides I-III (1–3), which belong to the maleimide-type alkaloid skeletons, along with fifteen known compounds (4–18) from the methanol extract of the aerial parts of P. attnuatum. Their chemical structures were elucidated using spectroscopic methods (UV, IR, ESI-Q-TOF-MS, and 1D/2D NMR). All the isolates were evaluated for their ability to inhibit IL-6 activity in the human embryonic kidney-Blue™ IL-6 cell line and their cytotoxic activity against ovarian cancer cell lines (SKOV3/SKOV3-TR) and chemotherapy-resistant variants (cisplatin-resistant A2780/paclitaxel-resistant SKOV3). The compounds 3, 4, 11, 12, 17, and 18 exhibited IL-6 inhibition comparable to that of the positive control bazedoxifene. Notably, compound 12 displayed the most potent anticancer effect against all the tested cancer cell lines. These findings highlight the importance of researching the diverse activities of both known and newly discovered natural products to fully unlock their potential therapeutic benefits.

Background A precise anatomical understanding of the adductor canal (AC) and its neural components is essential for discerning the action mechanism of the AC block. We therefore aimed to clarify the detailed anatomy of the AC using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), histological evaluation, and immunofluorescence (IF) assays. Methods Gross dissections of 39 thighs provided morphometric data relevant to injection landmarks. Serial sectional images of the AC were defined using micro-CT and ultrasonography. The fascial and neural structures of the AC proper were histologically evaluated using Masson’s trichrome and Verhoeff-Van Gieson staining, and double IF staining using choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and neurofilament 200 antibodies. Results The posteromedial branch insertion of the nerve to vastus medialis (NVM) into the lateral border of the AC proper was lower (14.5 ± 2.4 cm [mean ± SD] above the base of the patella) than the origin of the proximal AC. The AC consists of a thin subsartorial fascia in the proximal region and a thick aponeurosis-like vastoadductor membrane in the distal region. In the proximal AC, the posteromedial branch of the NVM (pmNVM) consistently contained both sensory and motor fibers, and more ChAT-positive fibers were observed than in the saphenous nerve (27.5 ± 11.2 / 104 vs. 4.2 ± 2.6 / 104 [counts/µm2], P < 0.001). Conclusions Anatomical differences in fascial structures between the proximal and distal AC and a mixed neural component of the neighboring pmNVM have been visualized using micro-CT images, histological evaluation, and IF assays.

Conclusions: Frailty, but not prefrailty, appeared to be an independent factor associated with poor analgesic efficacy of ESI in elderly patients with symptomatic degenerative lumbar spinal disease receiving conservative care.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by joint inflammation and swelling. Several studies have demonstrated that RA fibroblast-like synovial cells (RA-FLS) play an important role in RA pathogenesis. Activated RA-FLS contribute to synovial inflammation by secreting inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. LMT-28 is derivative of oxazolidone and exerts anti-inflammatory effects on RA via IL-6 signaling pathway regulation. LMT-28 also regulates T cell differentiation in RA condition. However, the effect of LMT-28 on the migration and invasion of RA-FLS remains unknown. Kaempferol has been reported to have pharmacological effects on various diseases, such as inflammatory diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. Additionally, kaempferol has been reported to inhibit RA-FLS migration and invasion, but it is not known about the therapeutic mechanism including molecular mechanism such as receptor. The present study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of the combined treatment of LMT-28 and kaempferol on RA-FLS activation and RA pathogenesis in mouse model. LMT-28 and kaempferol co-administration inhibited RA disease severity and histological collapse in the joint tissues of CIA mice, as well as downregulated the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in mouse serum. Additionally, the combined treatment inhibited excessive differentiation of T helper 17 cells and osteoclasts. Furthermore, compared with single treatments, combined treatment showed enhanced inhibitory effects on the hyperactivation of IL-6-induced signaling pathway in RA-FLS. Combined treatment also inhibited RA-FLS cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and suppressed the expression of matrix metalloproteinase in RA-FLS. Furthermore, we confirmed that the combined treatment inhibited chondrocyte proliferation, migration, and invasion. In conclusion, our results suggest that the combined treatment of LMT-28 and kaempferol exerts a synergistic effect on the RA development via the regulation of IL-6-induced hyperactivation of RA-FLS. Furthermore, this study suggests that combination therapies can be an effective therapeutic option for arthritis.

Abstract Cosmological evolution of axion field in the early universe might be significantly affected by a thermal friction induced by the axion coupling to thermalized hidden sector. We examine the effects of such a thermal friction on axion dark matter density and its perturbation when the thermal friction dominates over the Hubble friction until when the axion field begins to oscillate around the potential minimum. We show that in the presence of sizable thermal friction there can be an exponential decay phase of the axion field before the oscillation phase, during which the axion energy density is efficiently dissipated into hidden thermal bath. Consequently, the previously excluded parameter region due to overclosing relic axion density becomes cosmologically viable with thermal friction. In particular, a QCD axion much lighter than μeV is viable without tuning the initial misalignment angle. We also find that thermal friction can affect the density perturbation of axion dark matter in various ways. For instance, it can alleviate the large-scale isocurvature bound on axion dark matter in the pre-inflationary PQ breaking scenario, which would make the pre-inflationary axion dark matter compatible with high scale inflation over a wide range of model parameters. In the post-inflationary PQ breaking scenario, thermal friction can also significantly change the scaling behavior of axionic strings, and therefore the typical size of the resultant axion miniclusters.

Abstract Background Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) remains one of the most drug-resistant focal epilepsies. Glutamate excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation which leads to loss of synaptic proteins and neuronal death appear to represent a pathogen that characterizes the neurobiology of TLE. Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a rapidly growing therapy for the attenuation of neuronal degeneration harboring non-invasiveness benefits. However, the detailed effects of PBM on excitotoxicity or neuroinflammation remain unclear. We investigated whether tPBM exerts neuroprotective effects on hippocampal neurons in epilepsy mouse model by regulating synapse and synapse-related genes. Methods In an in vitro study, we performed imaging analysis and western blot in primary hippocampal neurons from embryonic (E17) rat pups. In an in vivo study, RNA sequencing was performed to identify the gene regulatory by PBM. Histological stain and immunohistochemistry analyses were used to assess synaptic connections, neuroinflammation and neuronal survival. Behavioral tests were used to evaluate the effects of PBM on cognitive functions. Results PBM was upregulated synaptic connections in an in vitro. In addition, it was confirmed that transcranial PBM reduced synaptic degeneration, neuronal apoptosis, and neuroinflammation in an in vivo. These effects of PBM were supported by RNA sequencing results showing the relation of PBM with gene regulatory networks of neuronal functions. Specifically, Nlgn3 showed increase after PBM and silencing the Nlgn3 reversed the positive effect of PBM in in vitro. Lastly, behavioral alterations including hypoactivity, anxiety and impaired memory were recovered along with the reduction of seizure score in PBM-treated mice. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate that PBM attenuates epileptic excitotoxicity, neurodegeneration and cognitive decline induced by TLE through inhibition of the Nlgn3 gene decrease induced by excitotoxicity. Graphical Abstract

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is one of the most common neurological disorders, but still one-third of patients cannot be properly treated by current medication. Thus, we investigated the therapeutic effects of a novel small molecule, NecroX-7, in TLE using both a low [Mg2+]o-induced epileptiform activity model and a mouse model of pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus (SE). NecroX-7 post-treatment enhanced the viability of primary hippocampal neurons exposed to low [Mg2+]o compared to controls in an MTT assay. Application of NecroX-7 after pilocarpine-induced SE also reduced the number of degenerating neurons labelled with Fluoro-Jade B. Immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry showed that NecroX-7 post-treatment significantly alleviated ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) intensity and immunoreactive area, while the attenuation of reactive astrocytosis by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) staining was observed in cultured hippocampal neurons. However, NecroX-7-mediated morphologic changes of astrocytes were seen in both in vitro and in vivo models of TLE. Finally, western blot analysis demonstrated that NecroX-7 post-treatment after acute seizures could decrease the expression of mixed lineage kinase domain-like pseudokinase (MLKL) and phosphorylated MLKL (p-MLKL), markers for necroptosis. Taken all together, NecroX-7 has potential as a novel medication for TLE with its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-necroptotic effects.

IntroductionMild cognitive impairment (MCI) is often described as an intermediate stage of the normal cognitive decline associated with aging and dementia. There is a growing interest in various non-pharmacological interventions for MCI to delay the onset and inhibit the progressive deterioration of daily life functions. Previous studies suggest that cognitive training (CT) contributes to the restoration of working memory and that the brain-computer-interface technique can be applied to elicit a more effective treatment response. However, these techniques have certain limitations. Thus, in this preliminary study, we applied the neurofeedback paradigm during CT to increase the working memory function of patients with MCI.MethodsNear-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to provide neurofeedback by measuring the changes in oxygenated hemoglobin in the prefrontal cortex. Thirteen elderly MCI patients who received CT-neurofeedback sessions four times on the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) once a week were recruited as participants.ResultsCompared with pre-intervention, the activity of the targeted brain region increased when the participants first engaged in the training; after 4 weeks of training, oxygen saturation was significantly decreased in the left dlPFC. The participants demonstrated significantly improved working memory compared with pre-intervention and decreased activity significantly correlated with improved cognitive performance.ConclusionOur results suggest that the applications for evaluating brain-computer interfaces can aid in elucidation of the subjective mental workload that may create additional or decreased task workloads due to CT.

Abstract Despite high‐efficiency and low production cost, material toxicity of lead‐containing metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has been considered a major challenge towards its practical commercialization and widespread applications. With forefront efforts to develop alternative Pb‐free compositions, there have been increasing research efforts in recent years to mitigate the toxicity of Pb in PSCs. Herein, we review the key technologies for mitigating the toxicity of Pb in PSCs. First, we reviewed the status of Pb‐free PSC research, followed by an exploration of strategies for immobilizing and recycling Pb in Pb‐based PSCs. Finally, the perspectives for future development are discussed. Realistically, the complete elimination of Pb from commercially competitive PSCs might require a considerable amount of time and resources. Thus, strategies for risk management of available Pb‐based PSCs are essential for commercialization of sustainable and environmentally viable PSCs.

Abstract Background The psychiatric treatment gap is substantial in Korea, implying barriers in seeking help. Objectives This study aims to explore barriers of seeing psychiatrists, expressed on the internet by age groups. Methods A corpus of data was garnered extensively from internet communities, blogs and social network services from 1 January 2016 to 31 July 2019. Among the texts collected, texts containing words linked to psychiatry were selected. Then the corpus was dismantled into words by using natural language processing. Words linked to barriers to seeking help were identified and classified. Then the words from web communities that we were able to identify the age groups were additionally organized by age groups. Results 97,730,360 articles were identified and 6,097,369 were included in the analysis. Words implying the barriers were selected and classified into four groups of structural discrimination, public prejudice, low accessibility, and adverse drug effects. Structural discrimination was the greatest barrier occupying 34%, followed by public prejudice (27.8%), adverse drug effects (18.6%), and cost/low accessibility (16.1%). In the analysis by age groups, structural discrimination caused teenagers (51%), job seekers (64%) and mothers with children (43%) the most concern. In contrast, the public prejudice (49%) was the greatest barriers in the senior group. Conclusions Although structural discrimination may most contribute to barriers to visiting psychiatrists in Korea, variation by generations may exist. Along with the general attempt to tackle the discrimination, customized approach might be needed.

Background Intraoperative pulmonary aspiration is a rare but potentially fatal complication associated with various risk factors. Preoperative recognition of these risk factors can prevent aspiration events during general anesthesia or facilitate prompt corrective measures in patients experiencing this complication. Case A 70-year-old female patient with hypertension underwent bilateral total knee arthroplasty under general anesthesia. Despite using a midnight nothing-per-oral (NPO) protocol, an unpredictable intraoperative aspiration event occurred during anesthesia induction. A detailed evaluation of the patient’s medical history and subsequent diagnostic imaging examinations indicated achalasia. She was treated for aspiration pneumonia for 2 weeks. After 2 months, rescheduled total knee arthroplasty was performed under spinal anesthesia without any complications. Conclusions Obtaining the patient’s medical history and assessing the risk factors are important to prevent unpredictable intraoperative pulmonary aspiration. High-risk patients should undergo adequate preoperative fasting and regional anesthesia or rapid-sequence intubation should be considered for safe induction of general anesthesia.

Abstract We examine the axion emission from supernovae with a complete set of relevant axion couplings including the axion-pion-nucleon contact interaction which was ignored in the previous studies. Two processes are affected by the axion-pion-nucleon contact interaction, π − + p → n + a and n + p → n + p + a, and these processes can be the dominant source of axions for some region in the axion parameter space or in astrophysical conditions encountered inside supernovae. We find that the contact interaction can enhance the axion emissivity of π − + p → n + a by a factor of 2 − 4, while the effect on n + p → n + p + a is not significant. We also discuss the relative importance of other pion-induced processes such as π 0 + n → n + a and π − + π 0 → π − + a.

Background and goal of studyPatients with zoster-associated pain exhibit a variety of sensory symptoms and forms of pain and complain of different pain patterns. The purpose of this study is to subgroup patients with zoster-associated pain who visited a hospital using painDETECT sensory symptom scores, analyze their respective characteristics and pain-related data, and compare similarities and differences among the groups.Materials and methodsThe characteristics of 1,050 patients complaining of zoster-associated pain and pain-related data were reviewed retrospectively. To identify subgroups of patients with zoster-associated pain according to sensory symptom profiles, a hierarchical cluster analysis was performed based on the responses to a painDETECT questionnaire. Demographics and pain-related data were compared among all subgroups.Results and discussionPatients with zoster-associated pain were classified into 5 subgroups according to the distribution of sensory profiles, with each subgroup exhibiting distinct differences in the expression of sensory symptoms. Patients in cluster 1 complained of burning sensations, allodynia, and thermal sensitivity, but felt numbness less strongly. Cluster 2 and 3 patients complained of burning sensations and electric shock-like pain, respectively. Cluster 4 patients complained of most sensory symptoms at similar intensities and reported relatively strong prickling pain. Cluster 5 patients suffered from both burning and shock-like pains. Patient ages and the prevalence of cardiovascular disease were significantly lower in cluster 1. Patients in clusters 1 and 4 reported longer pain duration compared with those in clusters 2 and 3. However, no significant differences were found with respect to sex, body mass index, diabetes mellitus, mental health problems, and sleep disturbance. Pain scores, distribution of dermatomes and gabapentinoid use were also similar among the groups.ConclusionsFive different subgroups of patients with zoster-associated pain were identified on the basis of sensory symptoms. A subgroup of younger patients with longer pain duration showed specific and distinct symptoms, such as burning sensations and allodynia. Unlike patients with acute or subacute pain, patients with chronic pain were associated with diverse sensory symptom profiles.

Human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-1) infection of the CNS produces synapse loss which correlates with cognitive decline in patients with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). Lithium is mood stabilizer of unknown mechanism used to treat bipolar disorder and is known to exhibit neuroprotective properties. Here, we studied the effects of lithium on HIV-1 Tat-induced synapses between rat hippocampal neurons. The number of synapses was quantified to detect clusters of the scaffold protein postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95) which is clustered at glutamatergic synapses on cultured rat hippocampal neurons in vitro. Lithium protected synapses from HIV-1 Tat-induced synapse loss and subsequent neuronal death. This synaptic protection was prevented by both the activation of NMDA receptor leading to intracellular signaling and the regulatory pathway of lithium including inositol depletion and glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β). These results suggest that mood stabilizers might be effective drugs to treat neurodegenerative disorders including HAND.

Background and Objectives: The analgesic effectiveness of epidural adhesiolysis may be influenced by morphological changes in the paraspinal muscles, particularly in elderly patients. The objective of this study was to assess whether the cross-sectional area or fatty infiltration of the paraspinal muscles impacts the treatment outcomes of epidural adhesiolysis. Materials and Methods: The analysis included a total of 183 patients with degenerative lumbar disease who underwent epidural adhesiolysis. Good analgesia was defined as a reduction in pain score of ≥30% at the 6-month follow up. We measured the cross-sectional area and fatty infiltration rate of the paraspinal muscles and divided the study population into age groups (≥65 years and Results: The results revealed that elderly patients experienced poorer analgesic outcomes as the rate of fatty infiltration in the paraspinal muscles increased (p = 0.029), predominantly in female patients. However, there was no correlation between the cross-sectional area and the analgesic outcome in patients younger than or older than 65 years (p = 0.397 and p = 0.349, respectively). Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that baseline pain scores < 7 (Odds Ratio (OR) = 4.039, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.594–10.233, p = 0.003), spondylolisthesis (OR = 4.074, 95% CI = 1.144–14.511, p = 0.030), and ≥ 50% fatty infiltration of the paraspinal muscles (OR = 6.576, 95% CI = 1.300–33.268, p = 0.023) were significantly associated with poor outcomes after adhesiolysis in elderly patients. Conclusions: Fatty degeneration of paraspinal muscles is correlated with inferior analgesic outcomes following epidural adhesiolysis in elderly patients, but not in young and middle-aged patients. The cross-sectional area of the paraspinal muscles is not associated with pain relief after the procedure.

Abstract We study the renormalization group running of axion couplings while taking into account that the Standard Model can be extended to its supersymmetric extension at a certain energy scale below the axion decay constant. We then apply our results to three different classes of axion models, i.e. KSVZ-like, DFSZ-like, and string-theoretic axions, and examine if string-theoretic axions can be distinguished from others by having a different pattern of low energy couplings to the photon, nucleons and electron. We find that the low energy couplings of string-theoretic axions have a similar pattern as those of KSVZ-like axions but yet reveal a sizable difference which might be testable in future axion search experiments. We also note that the coupling of KSVZ-like QCD axions to the electron is dominated by a three-loop contribution involving the exotic heavy quark, gluons, top quark and Higgs field.

Lead (Pb) is one of the most prevalent heavy metals we encounter daily. Although there are many reports regarding their toxic effects on humans, the effects of exposure to low lead concentrations throughout the pregnancy period on the offspring are not fully elucidated yet. This study aimed to investigate the cellular mechanisms that occur in response to lead exposure. To this end, we administered lead-containing water to pregnant mice from the day of conception till delivery or till day 28 postnatally. Furthermore, we performed neurodevelopmental disorder-related behavior tests and RNA-sequencing analysis. We used both genders for all experiments because neurodevelopmental disorders usually show several sex-dependent differences. The results revealed increased levels of gliosis in the cerebella of lead-exposed pups compared to those in littermates belonging to the control group. Additionally, we observed altered behaviors of male mice in the autism spectrum disorder-related tests. RNA-sequencing results revealed changes in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling in the lead-exposed mouse model. Specifically, the lead-exposed male mice showed decreased monoamine oxidase B and increased levels of diamine oxidase enzyme, which is related to the synthesis of GABA in astrocytes. These findings demonstrate sex-dependent basal developmental changes in glial cells and an increased prevalence of autistic-like behaviors in the young pups of mothers exposed to lead during pregnancy.

Background: Artificial grafts such as polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron) and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) are used for various cardiovascular surgical procedures. The compliance properties of prosthetic grafts could affect hemodynamic energy, which can be measured using the energy-equivalent pressure (EEP) and surplus hemodynamic energy (SHE). We investigated changes in the hemodynamic energy of prosthetic grafts. Methods: In a simulation test, the changes in EEP for these grafts were estimated using COMSOL MULTIPHYSICS. The Young modulus, Poisson ratio, and density were used to analyze the grafts’ material properties, and pre- and post-graft EEP values were obtained by computing the product of the pressure and velocity. In an in vivo study, Dacron and ePTFE grafts were anastomosed in an end-to-side fashion on the descending thoracic aorta of swine. The pulsatile pump flow was fixed at 2 L/min. Real-time flow and pressure were measured at the distal part of each graft, while clamping the other graft and the descending thoracic aorta. EEP and SHE were calculated and compared. Results: In the simulation test, the mean arterial pressure decreased by 39% for all simulations. EEP decreased by 42% for both grafts, and by around 55% for the native blood vessels after grafting. The in vivo test showed no significant difference between both grafts in terms of EEP and SHE. Conclusion: The post-graft hemodynamic energy was not different between the Dacron and ePTFE grafts. Artificial grafts are less compliant than native blood vessels; however, they can deliver pulsatile blood flow and hemodynamic energy without any significant energy loss.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are implicated in the initiation and progression of a variety of tumors, including endometrial cancer. However, the mechanisms of lncRNA in endometrial cancer formation and progression remain largely unknown. In this study, we confirmed that the lncRNA SNHG4 is upregulated in endometrial cancer and correlates with lower survival rates in endometrial cancer patients. Knock-down of SNHG4 significantly reduced cell proliferation, colonization, migration, and invasion in vitro, as well as modulating the cell cycle and reduced tumor growth of endometrial cancer in vivo. In addition, the effect of SNHG4 by the transcription factor SP-1 was confirmed in vitro. We found in this study that SNHG4/SP-1 plays an important role in endometrial cancer progression and may be used as a potential therapeutic and prognostic biomarker for endometrial cancer.

Butea monosperma (Fabaceae) has been used in traditional Indian medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including abdominal tumors. We aimed to investigate the anti-IL-6 activity of butein in ovarian cancer and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Butein was isolated and identified from B. monosperma flowers, and the inhibition of IL-6 signaling was investigated using the HEK-Blue™ IL-6 cell line. The surface plasmon resonance assay was used to estimate the binding of butein to IL-6, IL-6Rα, and gp130. After treatment with butein, ovarian cancer cell migration, apoptosis, and tumor growth inhibition were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we used STAT3 siRNA to identify the mechanistic effects of butein on the IL-6/STAT3/FoxO3a pathway. Butein suppressed downstream signal transduction through higher binding affinity to IL-6. In ovarian cancer, butein inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. In addition, it decreased the growth of ovarian cancer cells in xenograft tumor models. Butein inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation and induced FoxO3a accumulation in the nucleus by inhibiting IL-6 signaling. The anticancer activity of butein was mediated by blocking the IL-6/IL-6Rα interaction and suppressing IL-6 bioactivity via interfering with the IL-6/STAT3/FoxO3a pathway.

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has become increasingly accepted as a life-saving procedure for patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This study investigated the relationship between cumulative fluid balance (CFB) and outcomes in adult ARDS patients treated with ECMO. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the data of adult ARDS patients who received ECMO between December 2009 and December 2019 at Korea University Anam Hospital. CFB was calculated during the first 7 days after ECMO initiation. The primary endpoint was 28-day mortality. Results: The 74 patients were divided into survivor (n=33) and non-survivor (n=41) groups based on 28-day survival. Non-survivors showed a significantly higher CFB at 1–7 days (p

Abstract We study self-interacting dark matter (SIDM) scenarios, where the s-wave self-scattering cross section almost saturates the Unitarity bound. Such self-scattering cross sections are singly parameterized by the dark matter mass, and are featured by strong velocity dependence in a wide range of velocities. They may be indicated by observations of dark matter halos in a wide range of masses, from Milky Way’s dwarf spheroidal galaxies to galaxy clusters. We pin down the model parameters that saturates the Unitarity bound in well-motivated SIDM models: the gauged L μ − L τ model and composite asymmetric dark matter model. We discuss implications and predictions of such model parameters for cosmology like the H 0 tension and dark-matter direct-detection experiments, and particle phenomenology like the beam-dump experiments.

The pyrimidine derivative YM976 (4-(3-chlorophenyl)-1,7-diethylpyrido(2,3-d)-pyrimidin-2(1H)-one) exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic effects. Considering that accumulation of lipids in adipose tissue is accompanied by inflammation, we investigated whether YM976 affects adipocyte differentiation. We found that YM976 significantly decreased lipid accumulation without cytotoxicity and reduced the expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα) as well as their lipogenic regulators including fatty acid synthase (FASN) and fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) in 3T3-L1 cells induced for differentiation. YM976 mainly inhibited the early stage of adipocyte differentiation. Furthermore, intracellular cAMP level was elevated by YM976 resulting in increased phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Conversely, decreasing the levels of AMPK or treatment with Compound C, an AMPK inhibitor, lessened the suppressive effects of YM976 on PPARγ transcriptional activity and adipogenesis. Thus, our results suggest YM976 as a novel potential compound for controlling lipid accumulation and formation of adipocytes in obesity.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of sagittal imbalance based on pelvic incidence–lumbar lordosis (PI-LL) mismatch on the analgesic efficacy of epidural steroid injection in geriatric patients. Materials and Methods: Patients aged 65 years or older who received lumbar epidural steroid injections under fluoroscopy were enrolled. The cutoff of PI-LL mismatch >20° was used as an indicator of a marked sagittal imbalance. The cross-sectional area of the psoas and paraspinal muscles, as well as the paraspinal fat infiltration grade were measured. A 50% or more decrease in pain score at four weeks after injection was considered as good analgesia. Variables were compared between PI-LL ≤ 20° and >20° groups and multivariate analysis was used to identify factors related to pain relief after injection. Results: A total of 237 patients consisting of 150 and 87 patients in the PI-LL ≤ 20° and >20° groups, respectively, were finally analyzed. Female patients, patients with lumbar surgery history, and the smaller cross-sectional area of the psoas muscles were predominantly observed in patients with sagittal imbalance. There was no difference in analgesic outcome after injection according to the PI-LL mismatch (good analgesia 60.0 vs. 60.9%, p = 0.889). Multivariate analysis showed that pre-injection opioid use, moderate to severe foraminal stenosis, and high-graded paraspinal fat infiltration were significantly associated with poor analgesia after injection. Conclusions: There was no significant correlation between sagittal spinopelvic alignment and pain relief after lumbar epidural steroid injection for geriatric patients.

Salix pseudolasiogyne (Salicaceae), the “weeping willow,” has been used in traditional Korean medicine to treat pain and fever due to its high concentrations of salicylic acid and salicin. The present study investigated bioactive compounds from S. pseudolasiogyne twigs to discover bioactive natural products. Phytochemical investigation of the ethanol (EtOH) extract of S. pseudolasiogyne twigs followed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS)-based analysis led to the isolation of two salicin derivatives, salicortinol and salicortin, the structures of which were determined by interpretation of their NMR spectra and data from the LC/MS analysis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of salicortinol isolated from S. pseudolasiogyne. The isolated compounds were evaluated for their anti-adipogenic effects in 3T3-L1 cells. Both salicortinol and salicortin were found to significantly inhibit adipocyte differentiation in 3T3-L1 cells. In particular, salicortin exhibited a strong inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation. Furthermore, salicortin inhibited the expression of lipogenic and adipogenic transcription factors, including FASN, FABP4, C/EBPα, C/EBPβ, and PPARγ, without inducing cytotoxicity. These results suggest that salicortin could be a potential therapeutic compound for the prevention or treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity.

Salix pseudolasiogyne (Salicaceae) is a willow tree and has been used as a medicinal herb in Korea to treat pain and fever. As a part of an ongoing study to identify bioactive natural products, potential anti-adipogenic compounds were investigated using the ethanol (EtOH) extract of S. pseudolasiogyne twigs. Phytochemical investigation of the EtOH extracts using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS) led to the separation of two compounds, oregonin (1) and 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2). The structures of the isolates were identified using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and LC/MS analysis. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report identifying oregonin (1) in twigs of S. pseudolasiogyne. Here, we found that the isolated compounds, oregonin (1) and 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2), showed anti-adipogenic effects during 3T3-L1 cell differentiation. Notably, 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2), at a concentration of 50 µM, significantly suppressed lipid accumulation. Moreover, the mRNA and protein levels of lipogenic and adipogenic transcription factors were reduced in 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2)-treated 3T3-L1 cells. Taken together, these results indicate that 2′-O-acetylsalicortin (2), isolated from S. pseudolasiogyne twigs, has the potential to be applied as a therapeutic agent to effectively control adipocyte differentiation, a critical stage in the progression of obesity.

The importance of an embedded wearable device with automatic detection and alarming cannot be overstated, given that 15–30% of patients with atrial fibrillation are reported to be asymptomatic. These asymptomatic patients do not seek medical care, hence traditional diagnostic tools including Holter are not effective for the further prevention of associated stroke or heart failure. This is likely to be more so in the era of COVID-19, in which patients become more reluctant on hospitalization and checkups. However, little literature is available on this important topic. For this reason, this study developed efficient deep learning with model compression, which is designed to use ECG data and classify arrhythmia in an embedded wearable device. ECG-signal data came from Korea University Anam Hospital in Seoul, Korea, with 28,308 unique patients (15,412 normal and 12,896 arrhythmia). Resnets and Mobilenets with model compression (TensorFlow Lite) were applied and compared for the diagnosis of arrhythmia in an embedded wearable device. The weight size of the compressed model registered a remarkable decrease from 743 MB to 76 KB (1/10000), whereas its performance was almost the same as its original counterpart. Resnet and Mobilenet were similar in terms of accuracy, i.e., Resnet-50 Hz (97.3) vs. Mo-bilenet-50 Hz (97.2), Resnet-100 Hz (98.2) vs. Mobilenet-100 Hz (97.9). Here, 50 Hz/100 Hz denotes the down-sampling rate. However, Resnets took more flash memory and longer inference time than did Mobilenets. In conclusion, Mobilenet would be a more efficient model than Resnet to classify arrhythmia in an embedded wearable device.

Background: Previous studies have shown that both ginseng root and ginseng berry exhibit antiobesity and antidiabetic effects. However, a direct comparison of the efficacy and mechanisms between the root and the berry after oral administration remains to be illuminated. Methods: In this study, we observed the effects of fermented ginseng root (FGR) and fermented ginseng berry (FGB) on obesity and lipid metabolism in high-fat diet induced obese mice. Results: FGR and FGB significantly inhibited the activity of pancreatic lipase in vitro. Both FGR and FGB significantly suppressed weight gain and excess food intake and improved hypercholesterolemia and fatty liver, while only FGR significantly attenuated hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Both FGR and FGB significantly inhibited the mRNA expression of Ldlr and Acsl1 while FGR also significantly inhibited expression of Cebpa and Dgat2 in liver. FGR significantly decreased the epididymal fat weight of mice while FGB significantly inhibited the mRNA expression of genes Cebpa, Fas, Hsl, Il1b, and Il6 in adipose tissue. Conclusion: Saponin from both FGR and FGB had a beneficial effect on high-fat diet-induced obesity. Compared to FGB, FGR exhibited more potent antihyperglycemic and antiobesity effect. However, only FGB significantly inhibited mRNA expression of inflammatory markers such as interleukins 1β and 6 in adipose tissue. Keywords: ginseng berry, ginseng root, high-fat diet, lipid metabolism, obesity

Abstract Flagellar biogenesis is controlled by a negative feedback loop. When FliD was secreted at the late step of flagellar assembly, the FliD-FliT complex disassembled and free FliT bound to the FlhDC complex, a master regulator of flagellar biogenesis, subsequently inhibiting the overall expression of flagellar proteins. In this study, we analyzed the role of the FliD C-terminal domain in pentamer formation and interaction with FliT. Our study showed that the FliD L443R mutant exists as a monomer in solution, indicating that the Leu443 residue of FliD, which contributes to its interaction with FliT, plays a crucial role in the pentameric oligomerization of FliD. Consistently, the increased levels of free FliT proteins caused by FliD L443R mutation had negative effects on the gene expression of flagellar synthesis and reduced the expression of flagellar proteins. The lengths of flagella in each cell were significantly reduced in L443R mutant strain, suggesting that normal flagellar biogenesis was impeded. These results suggest that the C-terminal domain of FliD plays a crucial role in the pentameric oligmerization of FliD and the binding of FliT to the C-terminal domain of FliD is critical to inhibit the premature assembly of the FliD pentamer in the cytosol.

Abstract Background To evaluate the incidence of chest wall toxicity after lung stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) and identify risk factors for the development of rib fracture. Methods Thirty-nine patients with 49 lesions underwent SABR for primary or metastatic lung tumors using Cyberknife® with tumor tracking systems. Patient characteristics, treatment factors and variables obtained from dose-volume histograms (DVHs) were analyzed to find the association with chest wall toxicity. Four-dimensional (4D) dose calculations were done to investigate the effect of respiratory motion on dose to the ribs. Results After follow-up of median 26.7 months (range: 8.4 – 80.0), 8 patients (20.5%) experienced rib fractures and among these patients, three (37.5%) had chest wall pain at 2–3 months after SABR. Median time to rib fracture was 13.4 months (range: 8.0 – 38.5) and the 2-year actuarial risk of rib fracture was 12.2%. Dose to the 4.6 cc of the ribs (D4.6cc) and rib volume received 160 Gy or more (V160) were significant predictor for rib fracture. No significant differences between three-dimensional (3D) and 4D dose calculations were found. Conclusions Parameters from DVH are useful in predicting the risk of chest wall toxicity after SABR for lung tumors. Efforts should be made to reduce the risk of the rib fracture after lung SABR.

Exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) has increased rapidly in children, but information on the effects of RF-EMF exposure to the central nervous system in children is limited. In this study, pups and dams were exposed to whole-body RF-EMF at 4.0 W/kg specific absorption rate (SAR) for 5 h per day for 4 weeks (from postnatal day (P) 1 to P28). The effects of RF-EMF exposure on neurons were evaluated by using both pups’ hippocampus and primary cultured hippocampal neurons. The total number of dendritic spines showed statistically significant decreases in the dentate gyrus (DG) but was not altered in the cornu ammonis (CA1) in hippocampal neurons. In particular, the number of mushroom-type dendritic spines showed statistically significant decreases in the CA1 and DG. The expression of glutamate receptors was decreased in mushroom-type dendritic spines in the CA1 and DG of hippocampal neurons following RF-EMF exposure. The expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the CA1 and DG was significantly lower statistically in RF-EMF-exposed mice. The number of post-synaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) puncta gradually increased over time but was significantly decreased statistically at days in vitro (DIV) 5, 7, and 9 following RF-EMF exposure. Decreased BDNF expression was restricted to the soma and was not observed in neurites of hippocampal neurons following RF-EMF exposure. The length of neurite outgrowth and number of branches showed statistically significant decreases, but no changes in the soma size of hippocampal neurons were observed. Further, the memory index showed statistically significant decreases in RF-EMF-exposed mice, suggesting that decreased synaptic density following RF-EMF exposure at early developmental stages may affect memory function. Collectively, these data suggest that hindered neuronal outgrowth following RF-EMF exposure may decrease overall synaptic density during early neurite development of hippocampal neurons.

Background: Despite the recent research implicating E2F8 (E2F Transcription Factor 8) in cancer, the role of E2F8 in the progression of ovarian cancer has remained unclear. Hence, we explored the bio-functional effects of E2F8 knockdown on ovarian cancer cell lines in vitro and in vivo. Methods: The expression of E2F8 was compared between ovarian cancer and noncancer tissues, and its association with the progression-free survival of ovarian cancer patients was analyzed. To demonstrate the function of E2F8 in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, we employed RNA interference to suppress E2F8 expression in ovarian cancer cell lines. Finally, the effect of E2F8 knockdown was investigated in a xenograft mouse model of ovarian cancer. Results: Ovarian cancer tissue exhibited significantly higher E2F8 expression compared to that of normal ovarian tissue. Clinical data showed that E2F8 was a significant predictor of progression-free survival. Moreover, the prognosis of the ovarian cancer patients with high E2F8 expression was poorer than that of the patients with low E2F8 expression. In vitro experiments using E2F8-knockdown ovarian cancer cell lines demonstrated that E2F8 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and tumor invasion. Additionally, E2F8 was a potent inducer and modulator of the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition and Notch signaling pathway-related markers. We confirmed the function of E2F8 in vivo, signifying that E2F8 knockdown was significantly correlated with reduced tumor size and weight. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that E2F8 is highly correlated with ovarian cancer progression. Hence, E2F8 can be utilized as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target against ovarian malignancy.

Background: Conventional stripping is considered to be the standard procedure for great saphenous vein (GSV) varicosities, but many other alternative treatments such as cryostripping, endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), radiofrequency ablation, and ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy have been developed. Among them, both cryostripping and laser therapy have been reported to be less traumatic, with lower rates of complications and recurrences when compared to conventional stripping. To compare the efficacy of these treatments, we have analyzed and compared the mid-term clinical outcomes of cryostripping and EVLT. Methods: Patients diagnosed with varicose veins of the GSV and treated with cryostripping or laser therapy between September 2008 and April 2013 were enrolled in this study. Duplex ultrasonography was used for the diagnosis and evaluation of varicosity and reflux, and the clinical-etiology-anatomy-pathophysiology classification was used to measure the clinical severity. The symptoms, Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS), recurrence rates, and complication rates of the cryostripping and laser therapy groups were analyzed and compared. Results: A total of 68 patients were enrolled in this study. 32 patients were treated with cryostripping, and 36 patients were treated with laser therapy. The median follow-up period was 29.6 months. Recurrence was noted in three patients from the cryostripping group and in two patients from the EVLT group. There was no difference in the VCSS score, operative time, duration of hospital stay, and complication rate between the cryostripping group and the EVLT group. Conclusion: The mid-term clinical outcomes of cryostripping were not inferior to those of EVLT. Further, considering its cost-effectiveness, cryostripping seems to be a safe and feasible method for the treatment of varicose veins.

Chylothorax is a rare postoperative complication of a thoracic surgical procedure. Here, we report a case of chylothorax after thoracic endovascular aortic repair with debranching for the distal arch aneurysm of the aorta. First, the patient was treated by a medical method (nil per os, fat-free diet, and octreotide), but this method failed. The patient strongly refused surgical treatment. Therefore, we tried to occlude the thoracic duct by lymphangiography Lipiodol, and this line of treatment was successful.

Dysregulation of collagen production contributes to various pathological processes, including tissue fibrosis as well as impaired wound healing. Lipo-prostaglandin E1 (Lipo-PGE1), a lipid microsphere-incorporated prostaglandin E1, is used as a vasodilator for the treatment of peripheral vascular diseases. Lipo-PGE1 was recently shown to enhance human dermal fibroblast (HDF) migration and in vivo wound healing. No published study has characterized the role of Lipo-PGE1 in collagen regulation in HDFs. Here, we investigated the cellular signaling mechanism by which Lipo-PGE1 regulates collagen in HDFs. Collagen production was evaluated by the Sircol collagen assay, Western blot analysis of type I collagen and real time PCR. Unexpectedly, Lipo-PGE1 decreased mRNA expression of collagen 1A1, 1A2, and 3A1. Lipo-PGE1 markedly inhibited type I collagen and total soluble collagen production. In addition, Lipo-PGE1 inhibited transforming growth factor-β-induced collagen expression via Smad2 phosphorylation. To further investigate whether extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)/Ets-1 signaling, a crucial pathway in collagen regulation, is involved in Lipo-PGE1-inhibited collagen production, cells were pretreated with an ERK-specific inhibitor, PD98059, prior to the addition of Lipo-PGE1. Lipo-PGE1-inhibited collagen mRNA expression and total soluble collagen production were recovered by pretreatment with PD98059. Moreover, Lipo-PGE1 directly induced the phosphorylation of ERK. Furthermore, silencing of Ets-1 recovered Lipo-PGE1-inhibited collagen production and PD98059 blocked Lipo-PGE1-enhanced Ets-1 expression. The present study reveals an important role for Lipo-PGE1 as a negative regulator of collagen gene expression and production via ERK/Ets-1 signaling. These results suggest that Lipo-PGE1 could potentially be a therapeutic target in diseases with deregulated collagen turnover.

Background/AimsEthanol administration causes intestinal epithelial cell damage by increasing intestinal permeability and the translocation of endotoxins from intestinal bacterial flora. Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are associated with recovery and protection from cell damage. The aim of the current study was to investigate differences in the expression of HSPs in the small intestine and the biochemical changes attributable to ethanol-induced intestinal damage.MethodsEthanol (20%) was injected intraperitoneally (2.75 g/kg, 5.5 g/kg, 8.25 g/kg) in ICR mice and the same volume of saline was administered to controls. After 1 hour, the proximal, middle, and distal segments were taken from the small intestine and the degree of damage was analyzed. In each segment, the expression of HSPs was analyzed by western blotting. The expression of inflammatory mediators including interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and antioxidant enzyme such as glutathione-S-transferase were compared using real-time polymerase chain reaction assays.ResultsIn the control group, HSP70 increased in all segments of small intestine. Additionally, increases in the expression of HSP40 and HSP90 in the distal regions and an increase in HSP32 in the middle regions were observed. After ethanol treatment, greater histological damage was observed in the distal small intestine and significant decreases in HSPs were observed generally. Increased expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and COX-2 was observed in small intestinal tissues exposed to ethanol-induced damage. However, there was no significant difference in the expression of an antioxidant enzyme.ConclusionsSignificant differences in the expression of HSPs in different intestinal regions were observed. These differences may have been attributable to the distribution of intestinal bacteria.

To enhance the production efficiency of foreign protein in baculovirus expression systems, the effects of polyhedrin fragments were investigated by fusion expressing them with the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). Recombinant viruses were generated to express EGFP fused with polyhedrin fragments based on the previously reported minimal region for self-assembly and the KRKK nuclear localization signal (NLS). Fusion expressions with polyhedrin amino acids 19 to 110 and 32 to 110 lead to localization of recombinant protein into the nucleus and mediate its assembly. The marked increase of EGFP by these fusion expressions was confirmed through protein and fluorescence intensity analyses. The importance of nuclear localization for enhanced production was shown by the mutation of the NLS within the fused polyhedrin fragment. In addition, when the polyhedrin fragment fused with EGFP was not localized in the nucleus, some fragments increased the production of protein. Among these fragments, some degradation of only the fused polyhedrin was observed in the fusion of amino acids 19 to 85 and 32 to 85. The fusion of amino acids 32 to 85 may be more useful for the enhanced and intact production of recombinant protein. The production of E2 protein, which is a major antigen of classical swine fever virus, was dramatically increased by fusion expression with polyhedrin amino acids 19 to 110, and its preliminary immunogenicity was verified using experimental guinea pigs. This study suggests a new option for higher expression of useful foreign recombinant protein by using the partial polyhedrin in baculovirus.

In the centrosymmetric title compound, C64H62N4, the two phenylethynyl groups lie at diagonal meso positions. The 24-membered porphyrin has in-plane distortion with respect to the mean plane of the macrocycle and two intra-ring bifurcated N—H...(N,N) hydrogen bonds occur. The dihedral angles between the phenyl rings in the phenylethynyl group and the 3,5-bis(tert-butyl)phenyl group with respect to the mean plane of the porphyrin are 17.2 (2) and 59.2 (3)°. The tert-butyl groups are disordered over two sets of sites in a 0.661 (13):0.339 (13) ratio.