Search Results (141)

Introduction: In Haemophilia B, guideline-level factor IX (FIX) prophylaxis is recommended, but real-world dosing and adherence vary. Aim: To assess treatment patterns, adherence, FIX dosing, and their associations with bleeding events in Korean patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review and one-time survey of 130 Korean patients with haemophilia B treated with FIX for ≥12 months at 12 centers (June 2022–May 2023). A total of forty-seven patients (36.2%) received prophylaxis (≥90 IU/kg/week for ≥45 weeks); the remainder were managed non-prophylactically. Annualized bleeding events (ABEs) were analyzed using negative binomial regression, and monthly bleeds with a generalized linear mixed model. Covariates with p < 0.10 and clinical relevance were included in multivariable models. Results: The prophylaxis group showed significantly fewer ABEs (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.383, p = 0.011). Each 100 IU/kg monthly dose increment reduced bleed risk (IRR: 0.692, p < 0.001). Adherence showed no independent association with bleeding in adjusted models. Conclusions: Bleed prevention in haemophilia B is driven more by delivered FIX exposure than by regimen label. Study-defined sustained prophylaxis remains underused and under-dosed. Individualized dosing and continuous adherence monitoring are essential to close this treatment gap and improve outcomes. Full article

Geraniin is the major compound in Nephelium lappaceum peel and exhibits significant immunomodulatory effects. So, this study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of Nephelium lappaceum peel extract and geraniin through in vitro experiments and clinical trials. In vitro, inflammatory responses were induced using UV, IR, SDS, LPS, and RA, followed by treatment with the Nephelium lappaceum peel extract and geraniin. The results demonstrated significant reductions in inflammatory cytokines, indicating potent anti-inflammatory properties. Based on these promising results, clinical trials were conducted to assess the effects of the Nephelium lappaceum peel extract on skin barrier function using various irritants, including IR, UV, SDS, Retinol, and tape stripping. Measurements of transepidermal water loss and erythema were performed to evaluate the extract’s protective effects. The results indicated that Nephelium lappaceum peel extract effectively mitigated skin barrier damage and reduced erythema, confirming its potential as a skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory agent. This study suggests that Nephelium lappaceum peel extract, rich in bioactive compounds such as geraniin, can be utilized in the development of cosmetic products aimed at reducing skin inflammation and protecting against environmental irritants. Full article

Background/Objectives: Patients with headache experience depression, anxiety, and reduced quality of life, which are individually associated with pain intensity and painkiller use, but their comprehensive combined effect remains unclear. Methods: Comprehensive patient groups were formed based on unsupervised clustering using machine learning algorithms, and their associations were analyzed via ordinary least square regression. K-means and t-distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t-SNE) combined with hierarchical density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (HDBSCAN) were applied for clustering. Results: A total of 813 patients were subdivided via K-means clustering (2 clusters) and t-SNE + HDBSCAN clustering (4 clusters). In the K-means clustering, Cluster 1 showed significantly lower peak pain intensity (coefficient [95% CI]: −0.7 [−1 to −0.4]) and frequency of painkiller use (−2.3 [−3.4 to −1.3]) compared to Cluster 0. In the t-SNE + HDBSCAN clustering, Clusters 2 and 3 showed higher peak pain intensity (1.1 [0.5–1.7] and 1.6 [1.0–2.2], respectively) and more frequent painkiller use (2.5 [0.4–4.5] and 4.4 [2.2–6.7], respectively) than Cluster 1. Conclusions: The clustering approach successfully generated groups that reflected a comprehensive profile of depression-, anxiety-, and headache-related quality of life. The clusters demonstrated significant differences which can help better characterize patients based on their psychological and functional impact. Full article

Hair loss, a prevalent condition affecting individuals across various demographics, is associated with hormonal imbalances, oxidative stress, inflammation, and environmental factors. This study evaluated the anti-hair loss potential of the water-soluble fraction of Rhus semialata gall extract (WRGE) and its primary component, Penta-O-Galloyl-β-D-Glucose (PGG), through both in vitro and clinical studies. WRGE was obtained using a standardized extraction process, and PGG was identified via HPLC-DAD and HRESIMS/MS techniques. Human dermal papilla cells (HDPCs) are specialized fibroblasts that can regulate the hair growth cycle and hair follicle growth. HDPCs are widely used in research focused on anti-hair loss. In this study, the anti-hair loss effects of WRGE and PGG on HDPCs were confirmed. WRGE and PGG enhance cell proliferation in HDPCs. These results are associated with the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and the upregulation of hair growth factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and fibroblast growth factor (FGF). Furthermore, WRGE and PGG significantly inhibited dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-mediated DKK-1 secretion and H₂O₂-medicated cytotoxicity. Clinical trials further validated these results, demonstrating significant improvements in hair density and visual hair appearance scores in participants treated with WRGE compared to a placebo group. These results collectively suggest that WRGE and PGG may serve as promising natural agents for the prevention and treatment of hair loss by targeting multiple biological pathways, including the regulation of hair growth factors, oxidative stress, and hormonal imbalances. Full article

The distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes shows inconsistencies across countries, ethnicities, and socioeconomic levels. An in-depth identification of HPV infection rates and genotypes across regions, ethnicities, and age groups in large populations is crucial. We aimed to assess the prevalence of HPV infections among Korean women and investigate the prevalence of multi-type infections among HPV types. To identify HPV types, 16,669 specimens were subjected to DNA extraction and real-time polymerase chain reactions. The HPV infection rate was 36.7%, with single- and multi-type HPV infection rates of 21.4% and 15.3%, respectively. The prevalence of HPV infection was higher among women in their 20s and 60s. HPV types 16 and 18 were most commonly multi-type infected with HPV type 52. In conclusion, promoting HPV awareness and prevention strategies and incentivizing vaccination can boost vaccination rates among eligible individuals. Full article

STS304L is widely used in liquefied natural gas cargo containment systems for cryogenic liquefied gas storage because of its excellent mechanical properties at low temperatures. However, unpredictable sloshing impacts can induce excessive plastic deformation, leading to phase transformation from austenite to martensite. This study investigated the impact resistance of STS304L under cryogenic conditions through drop-weight impact tests. Temperature sensitivity was analyzed using electron backscatter diffraction to quantify plastic deformation and phase fraction. The results showed that, as the temperature decreased, the energy absorption and stiffness increased, whereas the plastic deformation remained relatively constant. Energy absorption increased by 59.63% at −100 °C and 68.80% at −193 °C compared with that at 20 °C. The martensite fraction, measured at the end of the hemispherical impact region, increased from 19.26% at 20 °C to 77.85% at −100 °C and 96.87% at −193 °C, indicating significant strain-induced martensitic transformation at cryogenic temperatures. Full article

Background and Objectives: Left ventricle (LV) overloading during veno-arterial (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is detrimental to myocardial recovery. To determine whether LV unloading using transaortic catheter venting (TACV) is effective, we analyzed the effect of TACV in a human-sized porcine model. Materials and Methods: Hypoxic biventricular dysfunction was induced in 11 pigs using femoro-femoral VA-ECMO and custom-made TACV catheters in the LV through the common carotid artery. Hemodynamic conditions were then simulated. The TACV was either opened or closed under a controlled ECMO flow. Conversely, the ECMO flow was adjusted, varying from 1 L to 4 L, with and without TACV; 2115 observations were collected. Results: In comparing observations without TACV (TACV−) and with TACV (TACV+), the change in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) after TACV application was −1.2 mmHg (p < 0.001). In the linear regression model, the reduction in LVEDP was maximized when the baseline LVEDP and ECMO flow were higher. When escalating the ECMO flow in the respective settings of TACV− and TACV+, the rise in LVEDP was significantly lower in TACV+. Conclusions: TACV decreased LVEDP; this effect was more prominent when ECMO flow and baseline LVEDP were higher. These findings suggest that TACV might support LV recovery through effective unloading, even when ECMO flow is high. Full article

Hydrogen is a promising eco-friendly energy source, but its embrittlement effect on structural materials remains a significant challenge. This study investigates the notch sensitivity of 316L stainless steel under in situ electrochemical hydrogen charging, with a focus on mechanical degradation and fracture behavior. By examining the influence of notch geometry and hydrogen exposure, this research highlights the role of stress concentration in hydrogen embrittlement. The findings contribute to understanding hydrogen-induced material failure, offering insights for both industry practitioners in the energy sector and academic researchers. This study also underscores the need for further research on hydrogen-resistant materials and structural safety considerations in hydrogen applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study examined the effects of alcohol consumption on chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk in community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A nationwide retrospective observational study was conducted using NHIS-Senior cohort data (2009–2018). Adults aged ≥ 65 years with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m² were included. Alcohol consumption was classified as non-drinking, mild, moderate, or heavy drinking. CKD onset was defined as eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m². Results: Of the 122,319 subjects, the non-, mild, moderate, and heavy drinking groups comprised 99,091 (81.0%), 14,842 (12.1%), 4257 (3.5%), and 4139 (3.4%), respectively. During follow-up, 19,796 (20.0%), 4636 (31.2%), 1696 (39.8%), and 1695 (41.0%) patients developed CKD in the non-, mild, moderate, and heavy drinking groups, respectively. Univariate Cox regression analyses showed a significantly increased risk of incident CKD in all drinking groups compared with non-drinkers (all p < 0.001). However, hazard ratios (HR) for developing CKD were 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–0.94, p < 0.001) for mild, 0.89 (95% CI 0.84–0.95, p < 0.001) for moderate, and 0.93 (95% CI 0.88–0.99, p = 0.027) for heavy drinkers. In subgroup analysis, the beneficial effect of alcohol consumption on incident CKD was prominent among moderate drinkers aged 65–74 years and mild drinkers aged ≥ 75 years, in males and mild drinkers aged < 85 years in females. Conclusions: This study shows that alcohol consumption is negatively associated with the risk of incident CKD in older adults, particularly among males. Full article

Background/Objectives: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious class 1 animal disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals, such as cattle, pigs, and goats. Diagnosis and research on live FMD virus (FMDV) typically require biosafety level 3 facilities, which are challenging to maintain due to strict protocols and high costs. The development of NanoBiT-based assays has accelerated in response to the coronavirus disease pandemic, providing safer alternatives for viral research, and is now applicable for general laboratories. This study aimed to develop a NanoBiT-based virus-like particle (VLP) assay for the rapid and safe screening of neutralizing antibodies against FMDV Asia1 Shamir (AS). Methods: We developed an AS VLP with an inserted HiBiT tag that enabled the detection of entry into LgBiT cells through luminescence signals. Results: HiBiT-tagged AS VLPs mixed with anti-serum and introduced into LgBiT-expressing cells led to a reduction in luciferase activity. Therefore, we established a NanoBiT-based viral neutralizing antibody test (VNT) that demonstrated a high correlation (R² = 0.881) with the traditional gold standard VNT. Conclusions: The assay demonstrated high sensitivity and could be performed in BL-2 facilities, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional assays while reducing the need to handle live viruses in high-containment facilities. This method provides a valuable tool for rapid screening of neutralizing antibodies and can be adapted for broader applications in FMDV research. Full article

Ginseng, a traditional herbal medicine with a long history of use, is known to support human health, particularly by influencing brain function. Recent studies have identified gintonin, a lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor ligand derived from ginseng, as a key bioactive. However, the specific LPA receptor subtypes targeted by gintonin in the human brain to exert its anti-Alzheimer’s (AD) effects remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the LPA receptor subtype targeted by gintonin in the human cortex. Using a fluorescent gintonin conjugate, we investigated receptor binding in cortical samples from healthy individuals (n = 4) and AD patients (n = 4). Our results demonstrated that fluorescent gintonin selectively binds to human cortical neurons rather than glial cells and that gintonin-binding sites are co-localized with the LPA4 receptor subtype. Furthermore, the expression of LPA4 receptors was significantly reduced in the cortical neurons of AD patients. These results suggest that the LPA4 receptor may serve as a novel histopathological marker for AD and represent a promising therapeutic target for gintonin-based prevention and treatment strategies. Full article

Background and Objectives: Recent research has focused on exploring the relationships between various factors associated with headaches and understanding their impact on individuals’ psychological states. Utilizing statistical methods and machine learning models, these studies aim to analyze and predict these relationships to develop effective approaches for headache management and prevention. Materials and Methods: Analyzing data from 398 patients (train set = 318 and test set = 80), we investigated the influence of various features on outcomes such as depression, anxiety, and headache intensity using machine learning and linear regression. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining medical records, interviews, and surveys to gather comprehensive data on participants’ experiences with headaches and their associated psychological effects. Results: Machine learning models, including Random Forest (utilized for Headache Impact Test-6, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) and Support Vector Regression (applied to Migraine Disability Assessment), revealed key features contributing to each outcome through Shapley values, while linear regression provided additional insights. Frequent analgesic medication emerged as a significant predictor of poorer life quality (Headache Impact Test-6, root mean squared error = 7.656) and increased depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9, root mean squared error = 5.07) and anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, root mean squared error = 4.899) in the Random Forest model. However, interpreting the importance of features in complex models like supportive vector regression poses challenges, and determining causality between factors such as medication usage and pain severity was not feasible. Conclusions: Our study underscores the importance of considering individual characteristics in optimizing treatment strategies for headache patients. Full article

This study utilized a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to investigate the genetic variations linked to the risk of hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in patients who have undergone liver transplantation (LT), aiming to enhance understanding and improve clinical outcomes. Genotyping performed on a selected patients from the Korean Organ Transplantation Registry (KOTRY) data using high-throughput platforms with the Axiom Korea Biobank array 1.1. The discovery cohort included 21 patients who experienced HBV reactivation (cases) and 888 patients without HBV reactivation (controls) following LT. The replication cohort consisted of 5 patients with HBV reactivation (cases) and 312 patients without HBV reactivation (controls) after LT. Additive logistic regression analysis was conducted using PLINK software ver 1.9, with adjustments for age and gender. The GWAS findings from the discovery cohort were validated using the replication cohort. The GWAS identified several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the RGL1, CDCA7L, and AQP9 genes that were significantly linked to HBV reactivation after LT, with genome-wide significance thresholds set at p < 10⁻⁷. Down-regulation of RGL1 cDNAs was observed in primary duck hepatocytes infected with duck HBV. Overexpression of CDCA7L was found to promote hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation and colony formation, whereas knocking down CDCA7L inhibited these processes. Additionally, the absence of AQP9 triggered immune and inflammatory responses, leading to mild and scattered liver cell pyroptosis, accompanied by compensatory liver cell proliferation. This study provides critical insights into the genetic factors influencing HBV reactivation after LT, identifying significant associations with SNPs in RGL1, CDCA7L, and AQP9. These findings hold promise for developing predictive biomarkers and personalized management strategies to improve outcomes for HBV-infected LT recipients. Full article

Background: A fever is an important sign that affects patient outcomes with various etiologies in the post-decannulation period of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO); however, the cause is not fully understood. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and clinical implications of fevers after ECMO decannulation in critically ill patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, single-center study of adult patients who were successfully weaned off venoarterial (VA) or venovenous (VV) ECMO. Decannulation fever was defined as fever that occurred within 72 h of ECMO decannulation. The peak and duration of fever were followed for 2 weeks after decannulation, and the relationship with infection was assessed. Results: A total of 47 patients were included (22 [46.8%] on VA ECMO and 25 [53.2%] on VV ECMO). There were 35 (74.5%) patients who had decannulation fever, including 16 (34%) with active infections. Active infection during the study period was not related to the ECMO setting or duration; rather, infectious fever lasted longer than non-infectious fever (4 [interquartile range; IQR: 1–7] vs. 11 [IQR: 2–7] days, p = 0.023), and the C-reactive protein level was higher on post-decannulation day 7 (p = 0.006). Active infection was associated with increased mortality (odds ratio [OR] 6.067, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1289–32.644, p = 0.036), whereas decannulation fever was not (OR 0.156, 95% CI 0.025–0.977, p = 0.047). Conclusions: Fever is an important indicator of ECMO decannulation. However, the different timing and duration of fevers during the post-decannulation period of ECMO may have various clinical implications. Full article