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Seong Muk Kim,1 Chang Hyun Jeong,2 Ji Sun Woo,2 Chung Heon Ryu,1 Jeong-Hwa Lee,3 Sin-Soo Jeun1,21Postech-Catholic Biomedical Engineering Institute, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea; 2Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul St Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, South Korea; 3Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, KoreaAbstract: Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based gene therapy is a promising tool for the treatment of various neurological diseases, including brain tumors. However, the tracking of in vivo stem cell migration, distribution, and survival need to be defined for their clinical application. The systemic routes of stem cell delivery must be determined because direct intracerebral injection as a cure for brain tumors is an invasive method. In this study, we show for the first time that near-infrared (NIR) imaging can reveal the distribution and tumor tropism of intravenously injected MSCs in an intracranial xenograft glioma model. MSCs were labeled with NIR fluorescent nanoparticles, and the effects of the NIR dye on cell proliferation and migratory capacity were evaluated in vitro. We investigated the tumor-targeting properties and tissue distribution of labeled MSCs introduced by intravenous injection and followed by in vivo imaging analysis, histological analysis, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We observed no cytotoxicity or change in the overall growth rate and characteristics of labeled MSCs compared with control MSCs. NIR fluorescent imaging showed the organ distribution and targeted tumor tropism of systemically injected human MSCs. A significant number of MSCs accumulated specifically at the tumor site in the mouse brain. These results suggest that NIR-based cell tracking is a potentially useful imaging technique to visualize cell survival, migration, and distribution for the application of MSC-mediated therapies in the treatment of malignant gliomas.Keywords: mesenchymal stem cells, near-infrared nanoparticles, glioma, systemic delivery, in vivo imaging

The current study is a classroom action research with the objective of analyzing the improvement of students’ intensive reading ability using Survey-Question-Read-Review-Recite-Reflect (SQ4R) method. This research was conducted at Ryulgok Secondary School, Pyongyang, by involving 32 the 3rd grade students as the research participants. Data collection techniques were interviews, observation, documentation, and tests. The data analysis method used in this study was divided into qualitative data analysis and quantitative data analysis. The results of the first cycle of the research showed that 58.4% of students were active, it meant that it was still less than the target 75% of the results of intensive reading, because only 53% of students achieved a score of 70 and above for reading ability. In the second cycle, it shows that 85% of students actively participated in learning and the percentage of students was 87% of the target 75% of students got a score of 70 and above for reading ability. This indicated that there was an increase in learning outcomes (reading ability) as a result of an increase in the learning process after using the SQ4R method.

Background: Recently, placement of fully covered self-expandable metal stents (FCSEMSs) has been proposed as an alternative treatment for the management of benign biliary strictures. However, the major limitations of FCSEMSs are frequent migration and removal complications. Objective: We conducted this study to compare the antimigration effects, complication rates, and short-term efficacy of 2 FCSEMSs with either an anchoring flap (AF) or a flared end (FE) at the proximal end of the stent. Design: A multicenter, prospective comparative pilot study. Setting: Two tertiary referral centers. Patients: A total of 43 patients with benign biliary stricture who were candidates for placement of FCSEMSs were assigned to the AF (n = 22) or the FE group (n = 21). Interventions: Predefined duration of placement and removal of FCSEMSs. Results: After a median period of placement of 6 months (interquartile range 4-6), no patients in the AF group and 33% of patients (7 of 21, 1 in proximal and 6 in distal) in the FE group had stent migration (P = .004). The removal rate of the FCSEMSs was 100% in both groups (per protocol, n = 22 in the AF group and n = 17 in the FE group). Immediate improvement of biliary stricture was 91% (20/22, per protocol) in the AF group and 88% (15/17, per protocol) in the FE group. All stents were removed without difficulty. Limitations: Short-term follow-up after the removal of FCSEMSs. Conclusions: With regard to the antimigration effect of FCSEMSs for benign biliary stricture, the AF design may be superior to the FE. For up to 6 months, both FCSEMSs can be endoscopically removed without complications. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT00945516.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: EUS-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) with the use of a fully covered metal stent can result in a large-diameter fistula between the bile duct and the duodenum or stomach. This sustainable fistula may constitute a new endoscopic route to the bile duct. Objective: To assess the feasibility of performing endoscopic procedures through EUS-guided choledochoduodenostomy or hepaticogastrostomy with a fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS). Design: Observational pilot study. Setting: Tertiary-care referral center. Patients: This study involved 3 consecutive patients who underwent EUS-BD with an FCSEMS for biliary decompression. Interventions: One to four weeks after EUS-BD with an FCSEMS, endoscopic procedures for the bile duct were performed through the sinus tract to evaluate and manage intrabiliary lesions. Main Outcome Measurements: Technical success and procedural complications of endoscopic procedures through EUS-BD with an FCSEMS. Results: Endoscopic procedures were completed through the sinus tract of EUS-BD. Two patients underwent photodynamic therapy for tumor bleeding in the common bile duct and argon plasma coagulation on the biliary intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm repeatedly under direct visual guidance. In the other patient, photodynamic therapy was performed on the malignant hilar stricture through EUS-guided hepaticogastrostomy with an FCSEMS. Limitations: Small sample size, pilot study. Conclusions: EUS-BD with an FCSEMS may result in a large-diameter sustainable fistula. Endoscopic intervention through this fistula seems to be feasible and useful for the management of intrabiliary lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective : The purpose of this study is to report the patient with radial nerve palsy, who improved by oriental medical treatment. Methods : The patient was managed by Cathami Flos aqua-acupuncture, Dong-Qi acupuncture treatment, Comman acupuncture treatment and Herbal medicine. We took pictures of patient's wrist and checked the power of muscles. And we checked the numbness of thumb that was patient's subjective sensation. Results : After 2 weeks-treatment, the movement and power of wrist was restored to nearly normal range, also the numbness of thumb was removed. Combined oriental medical treatment can treat radial nerve palsy earlier than the other methods. Conclusions : The results suggest that combination of Cathami Flos aqua-acupuncture, Dong-Qi acupuncture treatment, Comman acupuncture treatment and Herbal medicine is good method for treatments of radial nerve palsy. But further studies are required to concretely prove the effectiveness of this method for treating radial nerve palsy.

Abstract Background Cell panning of phage-displayed antibody library is a powerful tool for the development of therapeutic and imaging agents since disease-related cell surface proteins in native complex conformation can be directly targeted. Here, we employed a strategy taking advantage of an integrated vector system which allows rapid conversion of scFv-displaying phage into scFv-Fc format for efficient cell-based scFv library selection on a tetraspanin protein, CD9. Results A mouse scFv library constructed by using a phagemid vector, pDR-D1 was subjected to cell panning against stable CD9 transfectant, and the scFv repertoire from the enriched phage pool was directly transferred to a mammalian cassette vector, pDR-OriP-Fc1. The resulting constructs enabled transient expression of enough amounts of scFv-Fcs in HEK293E cells, and flow cytometric screening of binders for CD9 transfectant could be performed simply by using the culture supernatants. All three clones selected from the screening showed correct CD9-specificity. They could immunoprecipitate CD9 molecules out of the transfectant cell lysate and correctly stain endogenous CD9 expression on cancer cell membrane. Furthermore, competition assay with a known anti-CD9 monoclonal antibody (mAb) suggested that the binding epitopes of some of them overlap with that of the mAb which resides within the large extracellular loop of CD9. Conclusions This study demonstrates that scFv-Fc from mammalian transient expression can be chosen as a reliable format for rapid screening and validation in cell-based scFv library selection, and the strategy described here will be applicable to efficient discovery of antibodies to diverse cell-surface targets.

We calculate asymmetric neutrino absorption and scattering cross sections on hot and dense magnetized neutron-star matter including hyperons in fully relativistic mean-field theory. The absorption/scattering cross sections are suppressed/enhanced incoherently in the direction of the magnetic field B = Bẑ. The asymmetry is 2–4% at the matter density ρ0 ≤ ρB ≤ 3ρ0 and temperature T ≤ 40MeV for B = 2 × 1017G. Then we solve the Boltzmann equation for the neutrino transport in 1D attenuation approximation, and get the result that the kick velocity becomes about 300 km/s for the proto-neutron star with 168 solar mass at T = 20MeV.

Abstract Background Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an attractive source of adult stem cells for therapeutic application in clinical study. Genetic modification of MSCs with beneficial genes makes them more effective for therapeutic use. However, it is difficult to transduce genes into MSCs by common transfection methods, especially nonviral methods. In this study, we applied microporation technology as a novel electroporation technique to introduce enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and brain-derived neurotropfic factor (BDNF) plasmid DNA into human umbilical cord blood-derived MSCs (hUCB-MSCs) with significant efficiency, and investigated the stem cell potentiality of engineered MSCs through their phenotypes, proliferative capacity, ability to differentiate into multiple lineages, and migration ability towards malignant glioma cells. Results Using microporation with EGFP as a reporter gene, hUCB-MSCs were transfected with higher efficiency (83%) and only minimal cell damage than when conventional liposome-based reagent (in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, microporation of BDNF gene into hUCB-MSCs promoted their in vitro differentiation into neural cells. Conclusion Taken together, the present data demonstrates the value of microporation as an efficient means of transfection of MSCs without changing their multiple properties. Gene delivery by microporation may enhance the feasibility of transgenic stem cell therapy.

Abstract Background KHU14, an ethanolic extract of Radix Gentianae Macrophyllae (Qinjiao), Rhizoma Coptidis (Huanglian) and Citri Unshiu Pericarpium (Wenzhou migan) was tested for its anti-inflammatory effects. Methods Three out of 20 herbs were found to have anti-inflammatory effects. The formulation of these herbs, i.e. KHU14 was tested for croton oil-induced ear edema, carrageenan-induced paw edema, acetic acid-induced capillary permeability, cotton pellet and delayed type hypersensitivity. Results KHU14 exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in animal models of acute and chronic inflammation. The anti-inflammatory activity of KHU14 observed was comparable to that of celecoxib. KHU14 inhibited the production of NO and PGE2 in LPS/IFN-gamma-stimulated peritoneal macrophages, and reduced edema and the amount of infiltrated cells in animal models. Conclusion KHU14 exhibited anti-inflammatory effects as demonstrated in typical immunological tests for anti-inflammation in vitro and in vivo.

Photon-counting detector (PCD)-based computed tomography (CT) offers several advantages over conventional energy-integrating detector-based CT. Among them, the ability to discriminate energy exhibits significant potential for clinical applications because it provides material-specific information. That is, material decomposition (MD) can be achieved through energy discrimination. In this study, deep learning-based material decomposition was performed using live animal data. We propose MD-Unet, which is a deep learning strategy for material decomposition based on an Unet architecture trained with data from three energy bins. To mitigate the data insufficiency, we developed a pretrained model incorporating various simulation data forms and augmentation strategies. Incorporating these approaches into model training results in enhanced precision in material decomposition, thereby enabling the identification of distinct materials at individual pixel locations. The trained network was applied to the acquired animal data to evaluate material decomposition results. Compared with conventional methods, the newly generated MD-Unet demonstrated more accurate material decomposition imaging. Moreover, the network demonstrated an improved material decomposition ability and significantly reduced noise. In addition, they can potentially offer an enhancement level similar to that of a typical contrast agent. This implies that it can acquire images of the same quality with fewer contrast agents administered to patients, thereby demonstrating its significant clinical value., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Han et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

The tetradentate ligand, merging a carbazole unit with high triplet energy and dimethoxy bipyridine, renowned for its exceptional quantum efficiency in coordination with metals like Pt, is expected to demonstrate remarkable luminescent properties. However, instances of tetradentate ligands such as bipyridine-based pyridylcarbazole derivatives remain exceptionally scarce in the current literature. In this study, we developed a tetradentate ligand based on carbazole and 2,3'-bipyridine and successfully complexed it with Pt(II) ions. This novel compound ( 1 ) serves as a sky-blue phosphorescent material for use in light-emitting diodes. Based on single-crystal X-ray analysis, compound 1 has a distorted square-planar geometry with a 5/6/6 backbone around the Pt(II) core. Bright sky-blue emissions were observed at 488 and 516 nm with photoluminescent quantum yields of 34% and a luminescent lifetime of 2.6 μs. TD-DFT calculations for 1 revealed that the electronic transition was mostly attributed to the ligand-centered (LC) charge transfer transition with a small contribution from the metal-to-ligand charge transfer transition (MLCT, ~14%). A phosphorescent organic light-emitting device was successfully fabricated using this material as a dopant, along with 3'-di(9H-carbazol-9-yl)-1,1'-biphenyl (mCBP) and 9-(3'-carbazol-9-yl-5-cyano-biphenyl-3-yl)-9H-carbazole-3-carbonitrile (CNmCBPCN) as mixed hosts. A maximum quantum efficiency of 5.2% and a current efficiency of 15.5 cd/A were obtained at a doping level of 5%.

Here, we report a proof-of-concept resistive pulse method for analyzing chiral amino acids utilizing metal-amino acid crystallization differences. This method involves introducing an amino acid sample solution into a micropipette through a pressure-driven flow. The sample then mixes with a metal ion solution inside the pipette, forming metal-amino acid crystals. The crystal size depends on the enantiomeric excess ( x ) of chiral amino acid samples. Large x values lead to large crystals. The crystal size difference is then reflected in the resistive pulse size as they block the ionic transport in a micropipette to different extents. We used Cd-cystine crystallization as a model system and found approximately five times the mean current pulse size difference for racemic ( x = 0) and L-only ( x = +1) cystine samples. A similar result was observed for aspartate. Our discovery opens up new opportunities for micro/nanoscopic chiral amino acid analysis, which can potentially be used in single-cell analysis.

Nanoscale scanning electrochemical probe microscopy started to elucidate the heterogeneity of electrocatalytic activity at electrode surfaces. However, understanding the heterogeneity in product selectivity, another crucial aspect of interfacial reactivity, remains challenging. Herein, we introduce a method combining scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) to enable the spatially resolved mapping of both activity and selectivity in electrocatalysis. A dual-channel nanopipette probe was developed: one channel for activity mapping and the other for product detection with a high collection efficiency (>95%) and sensitivity. Simultaneous mapping of activity and selectivity in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is demonstrated. Combined with colocalized crystal orientation mapping, we uncover the local electrocatalytic performance of ORR at different facets on polycrystalline Pt and Au. The high-resolution selectivity mapping enabled by our method with colocalized structural characterization can provide structure-activity-selectivity relationships that are often unavailable in ensemble measurement, holding promise for understanding key structural motifs controlling interfacial reactivity.

Background: The recurrence of thyroid cancer poses challenges compounded by postoperative fibrosis and anatomic changes. By overcoming the limitations of current localizing dye techniques, indocyanine green-macroaggregated albumin-hyaluronic acid (ICG-MAA-HA) mixture dye promises improved localization. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the dye for recurrent thyroid cancer., Methods: The nine patients in this study underwent surgery and postoperative ultrasonography. The dye was injected into recurrent lesions in all the patients preoperatively. During surgery, the lesions were confirmed with an imaging system before and after excision. If the lesion was unidentifiable with the naked eye, surgical excision was performed under the corresponding fluorescent guide. Side effects related to the dye injection and completeness of the surgery were evaluated., Results: No side effects such as bleeding, skin tattooing, or pain during or after the dye injection were reported, and no discoloration occurred that interfered with the surgical field of view during surgery. In three cases (33.3 %), because it was difficult to localize metastatic lesions with the naked eye, the operation was successfully completed using an imaging system. The completeness of the surgical resection was confirmed by ultrasonography after an average of 5 months postoperatively., Conclusion: The study found that ICG-MAA-HA dye effectively located metastatic and recurrent thyroid cancer and had favorable results in terms of minimal procedural side effects and potential for assisting the surgeon. A large-scale multi-institutional study is necessary to prove the clinical significance regarding patient survival and disease control., (© 2024. Society of Surgical Oncology.)

The impact of fermented concentrate on the growth and rumen health of beef cattle remains an area of emerging research. This study aimed to assess the influence of a fermented concentrate (TRT) compared to a conventional concentrate (CON) on the growth, rumen fermentation characteristics, and microbiota composition in Korean cattle. Using a crossover design, eight cattle were alternately fed TRT and CON diets, with subsequent analysis of feed components, rumen fermentation parameters, and microbial profiles. TRT and CON diets did not differ significantly in their effect on animal growth metrics. However, the TRT diet was associated with reduced digestibility of rapidly degradable carbohydrates and modified rumen fermentation patterns, as evidenced by an elevated pH and increased acetate-to-propionate ratio ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, the TRT diet increased the abundance of lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus , and yeast and organic acid levels in the rumen ( p < 0.05). Moreover, Lachnospiraceae and Bacteroidales populations in the rumen and fecal Akkermansia abundance increased in the TRT group compared to the CON group. These microbial changes suggest a potential enhancement of the immune system and overall health of the host. Further research on the long-term implications of incorporating fermented concentrate into cattle diets is warranted.

Objective: To investigate surgical, and clinical outcomes in patients with low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) according to treatment options [immediate operation (IOP) vs delayed operation after active surveillance (AS) (DOP)]., Background: AS has been adopted as an alternative to immediate surgery in patients with low-risk PTMC. Although some patients undergo surgery during AS, there is little information on surgical, and clinical outcomes after delayed operation after AS., Methods: A multicenter prospective cohort study including 1177 patients was conducted at 3 tertiary hospitals in Korea from June 2016 to January 2020. Patients with low-risk PTMC were enrolled. The participants were self-assigned into AS or IOP, and during AS, the patients underwent surgery if there were signs of disease progression or if the patient's choice changed., Results: A total of 516 patients underwent operation; 384 (74.4%) in the IOP group and 132 (25.6%) in the DOP group. Compared with the IOP group, the DOP group was significantly associated with a larger tumor size ( P =0.002), higher rates of lymphatic invasion ( P =0.002), and multifocality ( P =0.008). However, the rates of total thyroidectomy, postoperative hypoparathyroidism and vocal cord palsy did not differ significantly between the groups ( P = 0.283, P =0.184, and P =0.284, respectively). Of the 132 patients in the DOP group, disease progression was present in 39 (29.5%) patients. The DOP group with disease progression had a significantly higher rate of lymph node metastasis ( P =0.021) and radioiodine therapy ( P =0.025) than the DOP group without disease progression., Conclusions: These results suggest that AS might be considered an alternative treatment option for patients with low-risk PTMC regarding the extent of thyroidectomy and postoperative complications in the DOP group. To assess oncologic outcomes, long-term follow-up will be needed., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02938702., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2023 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Dysphagia is a common clinical condition characterized by difficulty in swallowing. It is sub-classified into oropharyngeal dysphagia, which refers to problems in the mouth and pharynx, and esophageal dysphagia, which refers to problems in the esophageal body and esophagogastric junction. Dysphagia can have a significant negative impact one's physical health and quality of life as its severity increases. Therefore, proper assessment and management of dysphagia are critical for improving swallowing function and preventing complications. Thus a guideline was developed to provide evidence-based recommendations for assessment and management in patients with dysphagia., Methods: Nineteen key questions on dysphagia were developed. These questions dealt with various aspects of problems related to dysphagia, including assessment, management, and complications. A literature search for relevant articles was conducted using Pubmed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and one domestic database of KoreaMed, until April 2021. The level of evidence and recommendation grade were established according to the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology., Results: Early screening and assessment of videofluoroscopic swallowing were recommended for assessing the presence of dysphagia. Therapeutic methods, such as tongue and pharyngeal muscle strengthening exercises and neuromuscular electrical stimulation with swallowing therapy, were effective in improving swallowing function and quality of life in patients with dysphagia. Nutritional intervention and an oral care program were also recommended., Conclusion: This guideline presents recommendations for the assessment and management of patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia, including rehabilitative strategies.

Herein, we prepared an o -carborane compound (9biAT) linked to a 9,9'-bianthracene moiety at each C9-position. The compound exhibited reddish emission in solid and solution states. The solvatochromism effect and theoretical calculation results for the excited (S 1 ) state of 9biAT verified that the emission was attributed to ICT transition. In particular, the structural rigidity and the orthogonal geometry around the carborane enhanced ICT-based emission in the solution state at 298 K, resulting in a considerably high quantum efficiency ( Φ em = 86%) in cyclohexane. In addition, both the Φ em value and radiative decay constant ( k r ) gradually decreased with an increase in the polarity of the organic solvent. Theoretical modelling of the charge distribution in the S 1 -optimised geometry revealed that charge recombination in the radiative-relaxation process upon ICT transition could be delayed under polar conditions. Consequently, a high Φ em value in the solution state at room temperature can be obtained by maintaining molecular rigidity and controlling the polarity of the environment.

Thrombospondin 1 (TSP1) is known for its cell-specific functions in cancer progression, such as proliferation and migration. It contains 22 exons that may potentially produce several different transcripts. Here, we identified TSP1V as a novel TSP1-splicing variant produced by intron retention (IR) in human thyroid cancer cells and tissues. We observed that TSP1V functionally inhibited tumorigenesis contrary to TSP1 wild-type, as identified in vivo and in vitro. These activities of TSP1V are caused by inhibiting phospho-Smad and phospho-focal adhesion kinase. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and minigene experiments revealed that some phytochemicals/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs enhanced IR. We further found that RNA-binding motif protein 5 (RBM5) suppressed IR induced by sulindac sulfide treatment. Additionally, sulindac sulfide reduced phospho-RBM5 levels in a time-dependent manner. Furthermore, trans-chalcone demethylated TSP1V, thereby preventing methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 binding to TSP1V gene. In addition, TSP1V levels were significantly lower in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma than in those with benign thyroid nodule, indicating its potential application as a diagnostic biomarker in tumor progression., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Limited.)

Objective: The International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS) is a semiquantitative clinical scale for ataxia that is widely used in numerous countries. The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity and reliability of the Korean-translated version of the ICARS., Methods: Eighty-eight patients who presented with cerebellar ataxia were enrolled. We investigated the construct validity using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). We also investigated the internal consistency using Cronbach's α and intrarater and interrater reliability using intraclass correlation coefficients., Results: The Korean-translated ICARS showed satisfactory construct validity using EFA and CFA. It also revealed good interrater and intrarater reliability and showed acceptable internal consistency. However, subscale 4 for assessing oculomotor disorder showed moderate internal consistency., Conclusion: This is the first report to investigate the validity and reliability of the Korean-translated ICARS. Our results showed excellent construct and convergent validity. The reliability is also acceptable.

We investigated the effects of resveratrol supplementation on in vitro ruminal fermentation and growth performance of Hanwoo calves. Treatment with three resveratrol concentrations (0%, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%) was used for in vitro ruminal fermentation. Resveratrol concentrations and pH of rumen fluid were negatively correlated (p < 0.05); therefore, total gas production, total volatile fatty acids, and acetate, propionate, and butyrate levels were significantly higher in the treatments than in the control at all time periods (p < 0.05). The appropriate resveratrol concentration that could be added without negative effects on the rumen was 0.3%. In farm experiments, we divided 14 Korean cattle calves into control (C) and 0.3% resveratrol (T) groups. There were no significant differences in the daily weight gain, feed conversion, final body weight, body length, withers height, and height at hip cross in the resveratrol-fed Hanwoo calves. Immunoglobulin G level was significantly higher in the treatment than in the control (p < 0.05), but IgA and IgM levels did not differ. Supplemental feeding of resveratrol is beneficial to in vitro ruminal fermentation, but it is important to supplement it at 0.3%. Furthermore, resveratrol affects calf immunoglobulin G.

Background: Active surveillance (AS) is an alternative to thyroidectomy for the management of low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC). However, prospective AS data collected from diverse populations are needed. Methods: This multicenter prospective cohort study enrolled patients from three referral hospitals in Korea. The participants were self-assigned into two groups, AS or immediate surgery. All patients underwent neck ultrasound every 6-12 months to monitor for disease progression. Progression under AS was evaluated by a criterion of tumor size increment by 3 mm in one dimension (3 mm), 2 mm in two dimensions (2 × 2 mm), new extrathyroidal extension (ETE), or new lymph node metastasis (LNM), and a composite outcome was defined using all four criteria. Results: A total of 1177 eligible patients with PTMC (919 female, 78.1%) with a median age of 48 years (range 19-87) were enrolled; 755 (64.1%) patients chose AS and 422 (35.9%) underwent surgery. Among 755 patients under AS, 706 (female 537, 76.1%) underwent at least two ultrasound examinations and were analyzed. Over a follow-up period of 41.4 months (standard deviation, 16.0), 163 AS patients (23.1%) underwent surgery. Progression defined by the composite outcome was observed in 9.6% (68/706) of patients, and the 2- and 5-year progression estimates were 5.3% and 14.2%, respectively. The observed progression rates were 5.8% (41/706) and 5.4% (38/706) as defined by tumor size enlargement by 3 mm and 2 × 2 mm, respectively, and 1.3% (9/706) and 0.4% (3/706) for new LNM and ETE, respectively. No distant metastases developed during AS. In multivariate logistic regression analysis examining variables associated with progression under AS, age at diagnosis <30 years (odds ratio [OR], 2.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10 - 7.45), male sex (OR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.47 - 4.20), and tumor size ≥6 mm (OR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.09 - 3.27) were independently significant. Conclusions: The progression of low-risk PTMC during AS in the Korean population was low, but slightly higher than previously reported in other populations. Risk factors for disease progression under AS include younger age, male sex, and larger tumor size. Clinical trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02938702.

The efficiency of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT)-based emission on π-aromatic-group-appended closo-ortho -carboranyl luminophores is known to be affected by structural fluctuations and molecular geometry, but investigation of this relationship has been in progress to date. In this study, four naphthyl-based bis- o -carboranyl compounds, in which hydrogen ( 15CH and 26CH ) or trimethysilyl groups ( 15CS and 26CS ) were appended at the o -carborane cage, were synthesized and fully characterized. All the compounds barely displayed an emissive trace in solution at 298 K; however, 15CH and 26CH distinctly exhibited a dual emissive pattern in rigid states (in solution at 77 K and in films), attributed to locally excited (LE) and ICT-based emission, while 15CS and 26CS showed strong ICT-based greenish emission. Intriguingly, the molecular structures of the four compounds, analyzed by single X-ray crystallography, showed that the C-C bond axis of the o -carborane cage in the trimethysilyl group-appended compounds 15CS and 26CS were more orthogonal to the plane of the appended naphthyl group than those in 15CH and 26CH . These features indicate that 15CS and 26CS present an efficient ICT transition based on strong exo -π-interaction, resulting in a higher quantum efficiency (Φ em ) for ICT-based radiative decay than those of 15CH and 26CH . Moreover, the 26CS structure revealed most orthogonal geometry, resulting in the highest Φ em and lowest k nr values for the ICT-based emission. Consequently, all the findings verified that efficient ICT-based radiative decay of aromatic group-appended o -carboranyl luminophores could be achieved by the formation of a specific geometry between the o -carborane cage and the aromatic plane.

Ruminants are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, and information on ruminant fermentation and microorganisms is essential to understand ruminant digestion, which is associated with environmental pollution. The present study investigated rumen fermentation and microbial diversity according to the three different growth stages of four Hanwoo steers: growing (12 months, G), early fattening (18 months, EF), and late fattening (25 months, LF). No significant differences were observed in rumen pH and ammonia nitrogen among growth stages. Total volatile fatty acids were significantly higher and propionate and valerate significantly lower in G than in EF and LF (p < 0.05). Ten bacterial phyla were detected, including Firmicutes (47.5−53.5%) and Bacteroidetes (28.4−31.7%), which accounted for 79.2−82.3% of the total bacteria. Prevotella accounted for the highest proportion (31.6−42.6%) of all bacteria in this study but did not differ significantly among the different growth stages. Metaprevotella abundance was significantly higher in G than in the other treatments (p < 0.05). In addition, Paraprevotella tended to be higher in LF than in the other treatments (p = 0.056). Given the differences in the genera of microorganisms with relatively low abundance, additional experiments are needed to determine the effect on fermentation.

Understanding the structure-activity relationship at electrochemical interfaces is crucial in improving the performance of practical electrochemical devices, ranging from fuel cells, electrolyzers, and batteries to electrochemical sensors. However, functional electrochemical interfaces are often complex and contain various surface structures, creating heterogeneity in electrochemical activity. In this Perspective, we highlight the role of heterogeneity in electrochemistry, especially in the context of electrocatalysis. Current methods for revealing the heterogeneity at electrochemical interfaces, including nanoelectrochemistry tools and single-entity approaches, are discussed. Lastly, we provide perspectives on what one can learn by studying heterogeneity and how one can use heterogeneity to design more efficient electrochemical devices.

Background: Active surveillance (AS) is offered as a choice to patients with low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC). This study aimed to identify patient and physician factors associated with the choice of AS. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of patients with low-risk PTMC who were enrolled in a prospective study comparing outcomes following AS and surgery. Patients completed a questionnaire to assess their prior knowledge of the disease, considerations in the decision-making process, and reasons for choosing the treatment. We also surveyed 19 physician investigators about their disease management preferences. Variables affecting the patients' choice of AS, including patients' characteristics and their decision-making process, were analyzed in a multivariable analysis. Results: The response rate of the patient survey was 72.8% (857/1177). Among the patients who responded to the survey, 554 patients (128 male; mean age 49.4 ± 11.6 years; response rate 73.4%) with low-risk PTMC chose AS (AS group), whereas 303 patients (55 male; 46.6 ± 10.7 years; 71.8%) chose immediate surgery (iOP group). In the AS group, 424 patients (76.5%) used a decision aid, and 144 (47.5%) used it in the iOP group. The choice of AS was associated with the following variables: patient age >50 years (odds ratio 1.713 [confidence interval, CI 1.090-2.690], p  = 0.020), primary tumor size ≤5 mm (odds ratio 1.960 [CI 1.137-3.379], p  = 0.015), and consulting an endocrinologist (odds ratio 114.960 [CI 48.756-271.057], p  < 0.001), and use of a decision aid (odds ratio 2.469 [CI 1.320-4.616], p  = 0.005). The proportion of patients who were aware of AS before their initial consultation for treatment decision was higher in the AS group than in the iOP group (64.6% vs. 56.8%). Family members were reported to have influenced the treatment decisions more in the iOP group ( p  = 0.025), whereas the AS group was more influenced by information from the media ( p  = 0.017). Physicians' attitudes regarding AS of low-risk PTMC tended to be more favorable among endocrinologists than surgeons and all became more favorable as the study progressed. Conclusions: Emerging evidence suggests that physicians' attitudes and communication tools influence the treatment decision of low-risk PTMC patients. Support is needed for patient-centered decision making. (Clinical trial No: NCT02938702).

o -Carboranyl compounds contain specific geometries, ranging from planar to orthogonally distorted biphenyl rings. Herein, 13 o -carboranyl compounds, 1HF-13PP , were synthesized and fully characterized to determine the impact of structural formation of the aromatic group appended with the o -carborane to estimate the efficiency of their radiative decay process. All the compounds exhibited significant intramolecular charge transfer (ICT)-based emission in the crystalline state at 298 K. Remarkably, increasing the distorted dihedral angles between biphenyl rings gradually decreased the emission efficiencies. Furthermore, their radiative decay constants decreased linearly with increasing dihedral angles, which demonstrated the inversely proportional relationship between these two factors. These findings distinctly suggest that the planar or distorted geometry of substituted aryl groups can strongly affect the efficiency of the ICT-based radiative process in o -carboranyl luminophores., Competing Interests: The authors declare no competing financial interest., (© 2022 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.)

To evaluate in vivo drug release profiles in beagle dogs, finasteride-loaded PLGA microspheres were prepared using a novel method of IVL-PPF Microsphere® microfluidic device. Briefly, the dispersed phase (PLGA and finasteride in dichloromethane) was mixed with the continuous phase (0.25% w/v PVA aqueous solution) in the parallelized microchannels. After lyophilization, the diameter of the microspheres was around 40 μm (PLGA 7502A or 5002A) and around 30 µm (PLGA/PLA02A mixture). Their CV and span values suggested a narrow size distribution in repeated batch preparations. The in vivo drug release from the PLGA microspheres exhibited three substantial phases: an initial burst, a moderate release, and then a plateau. The microspheres based on PLGA 7502A (75:25 co-polymer) demonstrated extended drug release for around 1 month with a minimized initial burst release compared to PLGA 5002A (50:50 co-polymer). Moreover, the in vivo drug release profile in beagle dogs was proportionally related to the amount of drug loading. Furthermore, the addition of PLA02A into the fabrication of the microsphere synergistically extended the drug release up to 3 months. These results demonstrated the value of this method to achieve uniform microspheres and extend the drug release properties with interpretative in vivo PK profiles., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Despite the growing evidence that metastatic lymph node ratio (MLNR) is a valuable predictor for the prognosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma, it has not yet been fully determined which factors give the ratio predictive value independent of the number of metastatic lymph nodes (MLNs)., Study Design: Retrospective cohort study., Setting: A comprehensive cancer center., Methods: Recurrence and clinicopathologic factors were analyzed in 2409 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma who underwent total thyroidectomy and central node dissection., Results: Cutoff values of MLNs ≥2 and MLNR ≥28.2% increased the recurrence risk (hazard ratio [95% CI], 9.97 [4.73-21.0] and 11.4 [5.53-23.3], respectively). Younger age, male sex, multifocality, tumor size, lymphatic and vascular invasion, and gross extrathyroidal extension positively correlated with MLN and MLNR (all P < .05). Meanwhile, lymphocytic thyroiditis negatively correlated with MLNR in female patients ( P < .001), by increasing total lymph node yields as compared with papillary thyroid carcinoma without lymphocytic thyroiditis. In multivariate analysis, younger age, tumor size, and lymphatic invasion remained significant in male and female patients for MLN and MLNR; lymphocytic thyroiditis was also significantly correlated with MLNR in female patients., Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that MLN and MLNR are independently observed prognostic markers for tumor recurrence. However, lymphocytic thyroiditis in female patients seems to have lower MLNR by increasing total lymph node yields. In light of their association, a different cutoff for MLNR needs to be applied according to the presence or absence of underlying lymphocytic thyroiditis in the use of MLNR for predicting the recurrence., Level of Evidence: 4.

Background/aims: Surgical resection, transplantation, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are generally accepted as amenable treatments for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recently drug-eluting beads (DEB) which had several treatment advantages were introduced for transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). The aim of this study was to evaluate feasibility and safety of DEB-TACE compared with RFA for the treatment of single small HCC., Methods: In this pilot non-randomized trial, we assessed retrospective data of 40 patients who underwent DEB-TACE (n=21) or RFA (n=19) for single small (≤3 centimeter in greatest dimension) HCC. The primary outcomes were tumor response and time to recurrence. The secondary outcome was treatment-related complications., Results: Complete response rate to DEB-TACE and RFA after first follow-up assessment was 90.5% and 94.7%, respectively ( P =1.000). During mean follow-up of 87.6 months (95% confidence interval, 74.4-102), 7 patients experienced local recurrence. The 6- and 12-month cumulative local recurrence rate was 5.0% and 21.8% in DEB-TACE vs. 11.1% and 17.0% in RFA group ( P =0.877). A total 14 distant intrahepatic recurrences were developed and 12- and 24-month cumulative distant intrahepatic recurrence rate was 20.6% and 42.7% in DEB-TACE vs. 17.2% and 36.3% in RFA group ( P =0.844). Two patients experienced gangrenous cholecystitis after DEB-TACE requiring cholecystectomy as treatment-related adverse event., Conclusions: Tumor response and recurrence rate after single session of DEB-TACE or RFA were similar. DEB-TACE could be applied selectively in patients with a single small HCC if the other therapeutic modality is unfeasible., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose., (Copyright © 2021 by The Korean Liver Cancer Association.)

In the present work, Ga₂O₃ nanofibers were successfully synthesized by electrospinning a solution of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and gallium nitrate, followed by temperature-controlled calcination treatment of the as-spun PVP and gallium nitrate composite nanofibers. The crystallinity and crystallite size of the Ga₂O₃ nanofibers can be readily controlled by varying the calcination temperature. From the physicochemical analysis results of the synthesized nanofiber, it was found that the nanofiber calcined at a higher temperature showed a higher crystallinity and a larger crystallite size. The photocatalytic degradation results on rhodamine-B (Rho B) revealed that the photocatalytic activity of the Ga₂O₃ nanofibers can be improved by optimizing the conflicting characteristics, crystallinity and crystallite size, through the control of the calcination temperature. The photocatalytic activity of a nanofiber calcined at 800 °C for the degradation of Rho B under ultraviolet irradiation exhibits 2.39 and 1.16 times higher than that of nanofibers synthesized at 700 °C and 900 °C, respectively, which is ascribed to relatively efficient charge transfer and dye molecule adsorption by its proper crystallinity and crystallite size.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of a personalized 3D-printed thyroid model that characterizes a patient's individual thyroid lesion. The randomized controlled prospective clinical trial (KCT0005069) was designed. Fifty-three of these patients undergoing thyroid surgery were randomly assigned to two groups: with or without a 3D-printed model of their thyroid lesion when obtaining informed consent. We used a U-Net-based deep learning architecture and a mesh-type 3D modeling technique to fabricate the personalized 3D model. The mean 3D printing time was 258.9 min, and the mean price for production was USD 4.23 for each patient. The size, location, and anatomical relationship of the tumor and thyroid gland could be effectively presented using the mesh-type 3D modeling technique. The group provided with personalized 3D-printed models showed significant improvement in all four categories (general knowledge, benefits and risks of surgery, and satisfaction; all p < 0.05). All patients received a personalized 3D model after surgery and found it helpful to understand the disease, operation, and possible complications and their overall satisfaction (all p < 0.05). In conclusion, the personalized 3D-printed thyroid model may be an effective tool for improving a patient's understanding and satisfaction during the informed consent process.

Although the treatment of thyroid cancer has improved, unnecessary surgeries are performed due to a lack of specific diagnostic and prognostic markers. Therefore, the identification of novel biomarkers should be considered in the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer. In this study, antibody arrays were performed using tumor and adjacent normal tissues of patients with papillary thyroid cancer, and several potential biomarkers were identified. Among the candidate proteins chosen based on the antibody array data, mature NAG-1 exhibited increased expression in tumor tissues compared to adjacent normal tissues. In contrast, pro-NAG-1 expression increased in normal tissues, as assessed by western blot analysis. Furthermore, pro-NAG-1 expression was increased when the thyroid cancer cells were treated with phytochemicals and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in a dose-dependent manner. In particular, quercetin highly induced the expression of pro-NAG-1 but not that of mature NAG-1, with enhanced anticancer activity, including apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest. Examination of the NAG-1 promoter activity showed that p53, C/EBPα, or C/EBPδ played a role in quercetin-induced NAG-1 expression. Overall, our study indicated that NAG-1 may serve as a novel biomarker for thyroid cancer prognosis and may be used as a therapeutic target for thyroid cancers.

Black soldier fly ( Hermetia illucens ) larvae meal (HILM) is a promising alternative to soybean meal (SBM). However, little information is available on the effect of microwave-dried HILM as a dietary protein source in the diets of laying hens. We studied the effect of dietary inclusion level of microwave-dried HILM on productive performance, cecal volatile fatty acid profile, egg quality, overall fatty acid profile, and heavy metal residues of the egg in laying hens. A total of 144 laying hens (25-week-old) were randomly assigned to three dietary groups (eight replicates and six birds/cage): a control diet, and two experimental diets in which SBM was replaced with 2% HILM (2HILM) and 4% HILM (4HILM). The laying hens that fed the HILM showed satisfactory results in productive performance and egg quality. Branched-chain fatty acid levels increased linearly ( p < 0.001) with dietary treatment in the cecal digesta. Total monounsaturated fatty acid increased linearly ( p < 0.01), while total polyunsaturated fatty acid decreased linearly ( p < 0.01) in the eggs by dietary treatments. Heavy metals, magnesium, zinc, and aluminum were increased linearly with dietary treatment; however, undesirable heavy metals were under permissible levels. Thus, microwave-dried HILM could be a possible alternative to SBM in the diets of laying hens; however, improvements in fatty acid profile are needed.

Background: By analyzing the recent epidemiologic trajectory of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in South Korea, we tracked 2 findings that have been reported recently in other countries: the stabilization of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related HNSCC incidence and the acceleration of oral cavity cancer incidence., Methods: We analyzed data from the comprehensive population-based Korean Central Cancer Registry for the period 1999 to 2017. The age-standardized incidence rate (ASR), annual percent change (APC), and relative survival were calculated., Results: The ASR of total HNSCC decreased from 1999 to 2017 (APC, -0.2 [95% CI, -0.3 to -0.0]), as did the ASR of HPV-unrelated HNSCC (APC, -0.6 [95% CI, -0.8 to -0.5]); however, the ASR of HPV-related HNSCC increased (APC, 2.9 [95% CI, 2.5 to 3.2]). The rapidly increasing incidence of tonsil squamous cell carcinoma, which was the main subsite of HPV-related HNSCC, stabilized after 2011 (APC pre-2011, 6.8 [95% CI, 5.0 to 8.3]; APC post-2011, 1.6 [95% CI, -2.1 to 5.5]), and the difference was significant (P = .017). In contrast, oral cavity cancer incidence demonstrated the only increase among HPV-unrelated subsites, with the increase occurring after 2006 (APC pre-2006, 1.6 [95% CI, 0.3 to 2.8]; APC post-2006, 2.8 [95% CI, 2.2 to 3.5]); the main cause of this change was an increase in the ASR of tongue cancer., Conclusion: This study demonstrates the recent stabilization of tonsil cancer incidence and the contrasting increase in oral cavity cancer incidence, unlike other HPV-unrelated cancers. These trends require further surveillance and understanding in terms of tumor biology and prevention., (© 2021 American Cancer Society.)

A controlled drug release formulation based on the subcutaneous injection of poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres loaded with finasteride was prepared and evaluated for monthly delivery. After selection of biodegradable polymer and polymer-to-finasteride ratio, the formulation was characterized. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser-light particle size analysis were used to examine the morphology, surface structure, and particle size. High‑performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to determine the drug loading, while liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was employed to analyze plasma finasteride concentrations. Results showed that the PLGA microspheres were spherical and of an appropriate size. The formulation stably releases the drug from the microspheres and the release sustained for a month without burst release, which was the desired duration. In vivo pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) studies were conducted in beagle dogs through the administration of PROPECIA® (as a reference drug) per oral and subcutaneous injection of the long-acting injectable microsphere formulation (LAIF) loaded with five different doses of finasteride. From the acquired plasma data, PK-PD models for both PROPECIA®-administered group and LAIFs-injected groups were developed and validated. PK-PD profiles of both groups were predicted for up to one month. The predicted PK-PD profile of all LAIFs showed the achievability of monthly delivery and pharmacological effects without burst release, compared to the simulated PK-PD profile of PROPECIA®. According to the predicted PK-PD profiles, the formulation loaded with 16.8 mg of finasteride was determined to be the optimal dose. The data obtained from the PK-PD model could be used as the basis for the estimation of a first-in-human dose of the formulation., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

In this paper, we propose a strategic molecular design of closo-o -carborane-based donor-acceptor dyad system that exhibits thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) in the solution state at ambient temperature. Planar 9,9-dimethyl-9 H -fluorene-based compounds with closo - and nido-o -carborane cages appended at the C2-, C3-, and C4-positions of each fluorene moiety ( closo -type: 2FC , 3FC , 4FC , and 4FCH , and nido -type: nido - 4FC = [ nido -form of 4FC ]·[NBu 4 ]) were prepared and characterized. The solid-state molecular structure of 4FC exhibited a significantly distorted fluorene plane, which suggests the existence of severe intramolecular steric hindrance. In photoluminescence measurements, 4FC exhibits a noticeable intramolecular charge transition (ICT)-based emission in all states (solution at 298 K and 77 K, and solid states); however, emissions by other closo -compounds were observed in only the rigid state (solution at 77 K and film). Furthermore, nido - 4FC did not exhibit emissive traces in any state. These observations verify that all radiative decay processes correspond to ICT transitions triggered by closo-o -carborane, which acts as an electron acceptor. Relative energy barriers calculated by TD-DFT as dihedral angles around o -carborane cages change in closo -compounds, which indicates that the structural formation of 4FC is nearly fixed around its S 0 -optimized structure. This differs from that for other closo -compounds, wherein the free rotation of their o -carborane cages occurs easily at ambient temperature. Such rigidity in the structural geometry of 4FC results in ICT-based emission in solution at 298 K and enhancement of quantum efficiency and radiative decay constants compared to those for other closo -compounds. Furthermore, 4FC displays short-lived (∼0.5 ns) and long-lived (∼30 ns) PL decay components in solution at 298 K and in the film state, respectively, which can be attributed to prompt fluorescence and TADF, respectively. The calculated energy difference (Δ E ST ) between the first excited singlet and triplet states of the closo -compounds demonstrate that the TADF characteristic of 4FC originates from a significantly small Δ E ST maintained by the rigid structural fixation around its S 0 -optimized structure. Furthermore, the strategic molecular design of the o -carborane-appended π-conjugated (D-A) system, which forms a rigid geometry due to severe intramolecular steric hindrance, can enhance the radiative efficiency for ICT-based emission and trigger the TADF nature., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts to declare., (This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry.)

This study investigated the effects of fermented beverage, kale/apple juice containing 5% vinegar in subjects with metabolic syndrome. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive 250 mL fermented beverage or water containing fructose, glucose, and sucrose twice daily for 10 weeks. Consumption of the fermented beverage significantly decreased plasma triglyceride, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels compared to baseline values ( P <0.05). Furthermore, consumption of the fermented beverage significantly decreased homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values and atherogenic indexes compared with baseline values ( P <0.05). In the control group, plasma triglyceride, TBARS, TNF-α, and hs-CRP levels, atherogenic indexes, and HOMA-IR values did not significantly differ pre-and post-treatment. The fermented beverage inhibited the activities of α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase in vitro , therefore could be helpful in alleviating metabolic syndrome in subjects with metabolic syndrome., Competing Interests: AUTHOR DISCLOSURE STATEMENT The authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 by The Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition. All rights Reserved.)

Context: The long-term quality of life (QoL) in patients with low-risk papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) underwent active surveillance (AS) and immediate surgery is unclear., Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of initial treatment choice on 2-year QoL in patients with low-risk PTMC., Design, Setting, and Participants: We analyzed 2652 QoL surveys from 1055 subjects enrolled in ongoing multicenter prospective cohort study on active surveillance of PTMC, in which the median follow-up duration was 24.4 months., Major Outcome Measure: We evaluated QoL of patients with low-risk PTMC according to their treatment modality using generalized estimating equation., Results: Six hundred and seventy-four subjects (male = 161; mean age = 48.8 ± 11.9 years) with low-risk PTMC chose AS while 381 subjects (male = 75; mean age = 45.7 ± 10.4 years) chose immediate surgery, including lobectomy/isthmusectomy (L/I) and total thyroidectomy (TT). Among the 817 subjects who completed baseline QoL surveys, 2-year QoL was good in order of AS (n = 500), L/I (n = 238), and TT (n = 79) groups after adjustment for age, sex, baseline tumor size, and baseline QoL scores. Among the 101 subjects who changed their treatment from AS to surgery during the follow-up period, 35 subjects who changed treatment due to disease progression had better QoL than 66 subjects who had no disease progression., Conclusions: This study identified QoL as a major issue in choosing an initial treatment of low-risk PTMC and highlighted the possibility of using AS as the primary treatment., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Endocrine Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

5-Phenyl-1,2,4-triazole-appended closo- (CB1 and CB2) and nido-o-carboranyl (nido-CB1 and nido-CB2) compounds were prepared and fully characterized using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The solid-state molecular structures of both closo-compounds were analyzed by X-ray crystallography. Although the closo-compounds exhibited dual emissive patterns in the rigid state (in THF at 77 K), which were assignable to a π-π* local excitation (LE)-based emission (λ em = ca. 380 nm) on the triazole moieties and to an intramolecular charge transfer (ICT)-based emission (ca. 460 nm) in which the o-carborane units acted as the acceptor (A), at 298 K in THF, the LE-based emission dominated. In contrast, the nido-compounds exhibited an intensive emission originating from ICT transitions in which the o-carborane units reversibly acted as the donor (D). In particular, the positive solvatochromic effects of both nido-compounds and the results of theoretical calculations for the o-carboranyl compounds supported the electronic role of the o-carboranyl unit in each compound. Investigation of the radiative decay mechanism of the closo- and nido-compounds using their quantum efficiency (Φ em ) and decay lifetime (τ obs ) suggested that the ICT-based radiative decay of nido-compounds occurred more efficiently than the LE-based decay of closo-compounds. These results implied that emission from the closo-compounds was drastically enhanced by the deboronation reaction upon exposure to an increasing concentration of fluoride anions, and finally became similar to the emission color (sky-blue) of the nido-compounds.

Background: After surgery in the thyroid region, patients may present with phonation or singing difficulty, even within their vocal range. We designed a novel voice evaluation method that reflects subjective and objective voice complications of the surgery., Methods: This tool recorded patients' voice ranges while singing, which was named the singing voice range profile (singing VRP). Patients were asked to sing "Happy Birthday," which has a one-octave scale, at a comfortable tone and intensity. The singing VRP, standard VRP and voice handicap index-10 (VHI-10) results were recorded before thyroidectomy and 1 and 3 months after thyroidectomy for 128 patients. For subgroup analysis, a group where the maximum F 0 of standard VRP in 1 month postoperatively was lower than the highest singing F 0 of the preoperative singing VRP was defined as "Collapsed group" and the other group was "Preserved group.", Results: The changes in the highest, lowest and range of singing fundamental frequency (F 0 ) had decreased at 1 month postoperatively. Subsequently, they had improved significantly at 3 months postoperatively but were lower than those preoperatively (all P < .05, except for the change in the lowest singing F 0 between 1 and 3 months postoperatively, P = .274). In the subgroup analysis, the singing range of the collapsed group (n = 65) showed significantly lower VHI-10 scores, range of vocal F 0 and singing F 0 than those of the preserved group (n = 63) at 1 and 3 months postoperatively (all P < .001). At 3 months postoperatively, the singing F 0 range in the preserved group had recovered to the range before surgery (13.0 ± 1.3 vs. 13.1 ± 1.4, P = .746 for the preserved group, and 13.0 ± 1.3 vs 11.5 ± 2.4, P < .001 for the collapsed group)., Conclusions: Parameters measured by singing VRP showed a trend similar to the change in VHI-10 and the maximum F 0 of standard VRP. In addition, singing VRP allowed a qualitative classification of the postoperative voice function when combined with standard VRP. Therefore, it can be used as a supplementary voice evaluation tool to reflect the physiologic and functional aspects of voice., (© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Human bone marrow‑derived mesenchymal stem cells secreting tumor necrosis factor‑related apoptosis‑inducing ligand (MSCs‑TRAIL) have demonstrated effective anti‑tumor activity against various tumors including lung, pancreatic and prostate tumors, although several tumor types are not responsive. In such case, other reagents may decrease tumor growth via TRAIL‑mediated cell death. The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of valproic acid (VPA) in enhancing the efficacy of TRAIL, which was delivered using MSCs. Moreover, the present study examined the induced tumor tropism of MSCs via cell viability and migration assays. Combination treatment with VPA and MSCs‑TRAIL enhanced the glioma therapeutic effect by increasing death receptor 5 and caspase activation. Migration assays identified increased MSC migration in VPA and MSCs‑TRAIL‑treated glioma cells and in the tumor site in glioma‑bearing mice compared with VPA or MSC‑TRAIL treatment alone. In vivo experiments demonstrated that MSC‑based TRAIL gene delivery to VPA‑treated tumors had greater therapeutic efficacy compared with treatment with each agent alone. These findings suggested that VPA treatment increased the therapeutic efficacy of MSC‑TRAIL via TRAIL‑induced apoptosis and enhanced tropism of MSCs, which may offer a useful strategy for tumor gene therapy.

Corrective osteotomy has been applied to realign and stabilize the bones of dogs with lameness. However, corrective osteotomy for angular deformities requires substantial surgical experience for planning and performing accurate osteotomy. Three-dimensional printed patient-specific guides (3D-PSGs) were developed to overcome perioperative difficulties. In addition, novices can easily use these guides for performing accurate corrective osteotomy. We compared the postoperative results of corrective osteotomy accuracy when using 3D-PSGs in dogs between novice and experienced surgeons. We included eight dogs who underwent corrective osteotomy: three angular deformities of the radius and ulna, three distal femoral osteotomies, one center of rotational angle-based leveling osteotomy, and one corrective osteotomy with stifle arthrodesis. All processes, including 3D bone modeling, production of PSGs, and rehearsal surgery were carried out with computer-aided design software and a 3D-printed bone model. Pre- and postoperative positions following 3D reconstruction were evaluated by radiographs using the 2D/3D registration technique. All patients showed clinical improvement with satisfactory alignment and position. Postoperative accuracy evaluation revealed no significant difference between novice and experienced surgeons. PSGs are thought to be useful for novice surgeons to accurately perform corrective osteotomy in dogs without complications.